Chair Will Furry
Republican Will Furry, the Flagler County School Board chair, announced in an Aug. 12 press release that he will run for the U.S. House of Representatives, District 6, in the 2026 election.
The seat in Congress is currently held by Republican Randy Fine, who won a special election on April 1 by a margin of 14 percentage points over Democrat Josh Weil. Michael Waltz had vacated the seat to serve in President Donald Trump’s administration. Palm Coast City Councilman Charles Gambaro is also running for the District 6 seat. Gambaro announced his candidacy on July 31.
JULY 27 YOUNG VANDALS?
10:41 a.m. — First block of River Chase Way, Ormond Beach Vandalism. Residents reported a vandalism to their homeowners’ association after finding a park pavilion’s bathrooms had been trashed with toilet paper, brown paper towels and soap — which was used to clog the toilets.
According to a police incident report, the crime likely took place sometime after 1 p.m. the previous day, as an HOA board member said an ice cream social was held at the pavilion prior to that, and the bathrooms had been fine.
Furry has lived in Palm Coast with his wife and children for over a decade. He is a former business executive and entrepreneur. He was elected to the School Board in 2022 and was named board chair a year later.
The press release said Furry, “is launching his campaign to bring principled, results-driven leadership to Washington.”
“Faith, family and freedom are the foundation of our nation, and they must be protected,” Furry said in the press release. “I’m committed to defending our liberties and securing the border, especially for the families who’ve suffered unimaginable loss from the fentanyl crisis. District 6 deserves a leader who embodies the strength, values and spirit of our community.”
The press release said Furry is “a MAGA Republican and America First supporter” of President Trump.
“I’ve answered the call from the people of District 6 who want a representative that reflects their priorities, not someone who parachuted in and doesn’t know our community. I live here, I serve here. It’s about the Will of the People and I’m ready to take that fight to Washington,” he said.
FCSO arrests Palm Coast woman who posed as a nurse
A Palm Coast woman who posed as a licensed nurse at AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway was arrested after a seven-month investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
Autumn Bardisa, 29, was arrested on Aug. 5, on seven counts of practicing a health care profession without a license and seven counts of
fraudulent use of personal identification information, according to a press release by the Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation began in January after hospital administrators reported Bardisa had been fired for impersonating a registered nurse by utilizing someone else’s license number and submitting false documentation to be employed as an advanced nurse technician.
Bardisa had been working for AdventHealth since July 3, 2023, when she was hired as an advanced nurse tech. When applying for the position, the press release states, Bardisa indicated that she was an “education first” registered nurse, indicating she passed the required schooling to become a registered nurse but had not yet passed the national exam to obtain her license.
During the hiring process, Bardisa informed the hospi-
tal that she had passed the exam and provided a license number matching an individual with her first name, but with a different last name, stating that she had recently gotten married and had a new last name. Bardisa was then asked to provide her marriage license to AdventHealth, which she never did.
In January, Bardisa was offered a promotion, and a fellow employee checked the status of her license, discovering Bardisa had an expired certified nursing assistant license, which the employee reported to administrators.
Bardisa was fired on Jan. 22 after failing to confirm her identity. AdventHealth then contacted the FCSO to conduct a criminal investigation, which determined Bardisa had participated in medical services to 4,486 individuals from June 2024 through January 2025, despite never holding a valid nursing license.
She is being held at the jail on a $70,000 bond.
One dead, two injured in ATVmotorcycle crash on SR 40
A 35-year-old Ormond Beach man on a motorcycle was killed in a crash involving an ATV on State Road 40, Aug. 9.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported that around 11:50 p.m., the ATV, which was driven by a 28-year-old Ormond Beach woman, was heading west while on the eastbound grass shoulder, near Pine Woods Road, when it entered the eastbound lane and hit the motorcycle, whose driver was riding east. The Ormond man died at the scene. The ATV driver, and her passenger — a 22-yearold Ormond woman — were both transported to hospital with serious injuries.
AUG. 4
‘DIFFERENT CONSTITUTION’
11:54 a.m. — First block of South Beach Street, Ormond Beach Traffic stop. A 60-year-old Illinois woman told an officer she “follows a different constitution” when she was pulled over for an expired tag, refusing to identify herself and provide the officer with her information. The woman told the officer that she wanted to “plead the fifth,” according to an incident report. The officer attempted to explain that the Fifth
The board member believed neighborhood juveniles to be the culprits, as the bathrooms are only accessible to those who live in the subdivision. She reported having previous issues in the past with juveniles damaging residents’ garage doors and said she wanted to pursue charges on behalf of the HOA. The damage was estimated at $300.
Amendment did not apply and that he still needed her information.
The woman refused to speak with the officer, and she was removed from the vehicle (the door was already open, the report states) and placed in handcuffs.
A passenger in the car located the woman’s wallet, and police confirmed she had a valid driver’s license. Her insurance, however, had expired in June.
The woman was issued two citations, one for failing to exhibit her ID and another for having no proof of insurance.
AUG. 3
MARK MY WORDS
11 a.m. — 5000 block of North Ocean Shore Boulevard, Palm Coast Obstruction without violence. When a deputy who was directing traffic outside a local church returned to his patrol car, he discovered his
rear driver side body panel had been vandalized.
Written in black, permanent marker were the words, “Why are you here,” according to a report. The deputy attempted to remove the writing but was unsuccessful. He had only seen one pedestrian in the area, and gave a fellow deputy the man’s description.
At about 12:50 p.m. the suspect — a 29-year-old Virginia man — was spotted walking northbound on North Ocean Boulevard around Bay Drive. He was carrying multiple bags and wearing what looked to be several layers of clothing, despite it being a hot and humid day, the report notes.
The second deputy approached him to check on his welfare, as he had seen him in the area three hours earlier, and the man declined medical attention, refusing to provide the deputy with his name. Because he matched the pedes-
trian’s description, the deputy asked him to stop, informing him he was being detained.
The man kept walking, and “balled up his fists” when the deputy tried to secure him in handcuffs.
He was eventually detained. Deputies found .5 grams of marijuana on his person. He was taken to jail.
AUG. 8 SWING AND A MISS
6:56 p.m. — First block of Palm Harbor Village Way, Palm Coast Battery on a law enforcement officer. Deputies arrested a 58-year-old Palm Coast man who swung at a restaurant customer while intoxicated, and later pushed a deputy in his attempt to get away.
The man had been kicked out of the restaurant by the time deputies arrived, but he was found on an electric bicycle in a nearby alleyway,
according to his arrest report. As a deputy followed him, the man fell off his bike in the bushes in front of another restaurant, at which point the deputy made contact.
Upon being detained, the man “became belligerent, tensed up and began to argue with this deputy,” the report states. He said that he had paid his bill and left, denying any physical altercation at the restaurant. He then pushed the deputy in the left side of his shoulder and neck area to get away, but the deputy grabbed him and they both fell to the ground. The man got up and ran across the parking lot, but stumbled and fell into the roadway. He was secured in handcuffs and taken to jail.
Later, deputies learned the bike had been stolen too; it belonged to a restaurant employee.
This is the second year in a row that CDCVI, a nonprofit that serves visually impaired people, has been successful in obtaining state appropriations.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Florida Sen. Tom Wright presented the Conklin Davis Center for the Visually Impaired with a $500,000 check from the state to help fund the nonprofit’s Vision Beyond Limits program on Tuesday, Aug. 12.
This is the second year in a row that CDCVI, a nonprofit that serves visually impaired people, has been successful in obtaining state appropriations. Last year, the nonprofit received $1 million, half of which was slated to upgrade the residential center’s HVAC system.
The Vision Beyond Limits program helps provide training for vocationally oriented blind people to help them prepare for, find and maintain employment, according to the appropriations request filed by Rep.
Chase Tramont.
CDCVI celebrated the state funds during a small ceremony held at its campus at 405 White St. in Daytona Beach, alongside its residents, staff, board members and members of local Lions Club, including Ormond Beach, Ormond-by-the-Sea and Ponce Inlet.
“Sen. Wright and Chase Tramont worked tirelessly during the year to help us to get that money that we desperately needed to keep this program going,” said CDCVI President and CEO Ronee David. “Unfortunately, we don’t have enough in the budget from the Division of Blind Services so the Legislature is helping us each year to have the funds that we need for this program and we’re so appreciative of them.”
Wright said the Legislature enjoys helping out the CDCVI.
“It’s important to the community — important to the state, and it gives me great joy to be able to bring this money to you,” he said.
The Vision Beyond Limits program, Wright shared, already has 75 graduates living independently in the community. Each year, 35-50 students will have the opportunity to follow in their footsteps.
“This is what a smart investment
by the state looks like, giving people the tools to live independently, contribute to their community and thrive as individuals,” Wright said.
The CDCVI also took the opportunity to recognize David during the ceremony for her 33rd anniversary with the organization. (In 2021, the CDCVI was born as a result of a merger between the Conklin Center and the Center for the Visually Impaired, which was founded in Ormond Beach in 1988.)
When David started with the Center for the Visually Impaired, they worked out a building that was about the size of a normal home, said Christopher Dixon, assistant director for CDCVI.
Now, the center has grown to employ 68 people and has over 28,000 square feet. Their budget has increased too, going from $252,000 33 years ago to $4.5 million.
“I’ve worked alongside her for the last 18 years and I can tell you Ronnie is the hardest working person here,” Dixon said.
Board Chair Nancy Epps agreed.
“There’s not a day that goes by that she’s not working on something that has to do with the Conklin Davis Center,” she said. “She works six days a week and sometimes late into the night and she has been so dedicated to this place for a long time.”
David said she and Epps worked
hard to reestablish the center, and while they received a contract with the Division of Blind Services, the annual funds awarded were based on figures from 2014.
“So this is why we need the Legislature to put this additional $500,000 into the contract because as, you know, everything has gone up since that time,” David said, adding that they are hoping to get additional funds put into their contract for next year.
FDOT said that the modifications will be made in the coming weeks.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
The roadwork in downtown Ormond Beach has made Granada Boulevard an “obstacle course.”
That’s how Ormond Beach resident Marvin Miller described the $9.2 million road safety project started by the Florida Department of Transportation in the spring of 2024. During a City Commission meeting last month on July 22, Miller showed the commission — and meeting attendees — photographs of scuff marks and damage on recently installed curb extensions and chicanes.
“The construction on Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach from U.S. 1 east to A1A has caused dangerous and hazardous risks for every driver,” Miller said. “Six-inch concrete obstructions on Granada Boulevard probably there to slow down traffic by moving vehicles, weaving left and right, and driving lanes that have been reduced in size, have caused accidents and damage to many vehicles. ... Every bit of this Granada Boulevard project has to be one of the worst ever conceived by
FDOT.”
At that July commission meeting, the officials agreed: The roadwork on the 1.5 mile stretch of road has caused frustrations.
“We’re really working case by case with this with FDOT, particularly in that roadway, to address these problems,” Mayor Jason Leslie said. “I can probably safely say also that some of these tire marks here are probably mine too from my vehicle.”
In response to public input during the construction phase of the project, FDOT will remove some of the new curb extensions, known as “bulb-outs” and chicanes, which are slight curvatures in the road to act like traffic calming measures. In a statement to the Observer, FDOT said that the modifications will be made in the coming weeks.
“FDOT appreciates the public’s input and has been coordinating with the City of Ormond Beach on the modifications to ensure a project that will fulfill the community’s vision while also improving safety for the traveling public,” FDOT stated.
The original project consisted of repaving Granada Boulevard from U.S. 1 to A1A, skipping over the bridge. The roadways were slightly narrowed to encourage slower driving speeds, and the following pedestrian improvements were either added or improved:
Upgrading the crosswalk west of Beach Street to a raised crosswalk with a pedestrian hybrid beacon
Adding a pedestrian hybrid beacon to the crosswalk at Washington Street
Upgrading the crosswalk between Vining Court and Bovard Avenue to a raised crosswalk with a pedestrian hybrid beacon
Other improvements included upgraded lighting at intersections, a new directional median to reduce the potential of left-turn conflicts at Washington Street and the addition of bicycle lanes next to turn lanes. FDOT also lowered the speed limit to 30 mph.
“The downtown Ormond Beach area is a busy corridor with lots of pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the project was designed to improve safety for all,” FDOT stated.
At the commission’s meeting on Aug. 5, City Manager Joyce Shanahan provided an update on the roadwork. Shanahan shared that she and Assistant City Manager Shawn Finley recently met with FDOT, bringing the photos Miller brought to the commission.
“They were very receptive to our concerns, and those of the residents,” Shanahan said.
Some of the changes coming include the removal of the curb extension east of Halifax Drive; the
In line with Volusia County’s program, the city plans to charge a daily $20 parking fee for non-residents.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
The city of Ormond Beach will soon start charging parking fees for visitors at Andy Romano Beachfront Park.
On Tuesday, Aug. 5, the City Commission unanimously approved an amendment to its code of ordinances on first reading to establish regulations for city-owned paid parking lots. In line with Volusia County’s ParkVolusia program, the city will charge a
Volusia served over 125,000 free meals for kids this summer
Volusia County marked the first day of the new school year by celebrating a successful 2025 summer food program that served more than 125,000 free meals to children across the community.
Funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the program reached over 70 sites to ensure children had access to nutritious meals while school was out.
daily $20 parking fee for visitors at Andy Romano. Visitors may also obtain an annual pass for $100.
Volusia residents will continue to be able to park for free; they will just need to register their license plates.
City Commissioner Travis Sargent said that as the city moves forward with paid parking, it shoudl “do a better job than the county.”
“I’ve gotten three tickets for parking and I’m registered,” he said, adding that one happened at the Seminole Avenue beach approach, and the two others at off-beach lots.
Fines for failing to pay to park will begin at $50, and go up to $100 if paid after the 14th day from the notice of the citation. Additionally, the city may issue a trespass warning
thousands of children who rely on school meals during the academic year,” Community Assistance Director Carmen Hall said. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners and volunteers, we were able to provide a consistent source of healthy food to young people all summer long.”
The 2025 program operated from June 2 through Aug. 8, serving breakfast and lunch. All meals met federal nutrition standards and were provided at no cost to children 18 and younger.
Coordinated by Volusia County’s Community Assistance Division, the program works to ensure children have access to free, nutritious meals during the summer months when school cafeterias are closed. Service locations included public parks, libraries, community centers, and other sites where children gather.
“Every summer, this program helps bridge the gap for
Ormond Beach Police continues to investigate a fatal crash that took place on East Granada Boulevard the evening of Friday, Aug. 8.
Police report that at around 9 p.m., first responders headed to the intersection of East Granada Boulevard and Vining Court for a crash involving two vehicles — a black 2012 Ford Mustang convertible, driven by 22-year-old Francisco Guzman-Rivera, and a white 2021 Toyota
to vehicle owners with one or more unpaid parking citations, according to the proposed ordinance.
Ormond Beach is also currently drafting a contract with PCI Municipal Services, the same vendor used by the county, for implementation of the program.
Sargent questioned how many other residents have been fined despite being registered with ParkVolusia.
“Just very frustrating,” Sargent said. “I hope we do a better job, and I’m confident that we will than what the county has done.”
Volusia County’s program launched on Jan. 1 of this year. The latest projections from the county report expected revenues to be about $2.9 million.
RAV4, driven by 68-year-old Paul Monroe Booker. According to police, Booker was turning left from Vining Court onto Granada Boulevard when Guzman-Rivera crashed into his vehicle; he had been driving eastbound. Both drivers were transported to the hospital as trauma alerts. Booker died at the hospital.
Police report that “preliminary investigations indicate that speed and alcohol may have contributed to the crash.”
“On behalf of the department, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Booker’s friends and family,” Police Chief Jesse Godfrey said. “This was a senseless and preventable tragedy. With rideshare services and designated drivers so readily available, there is never a reason to get behind the wheel after drinking. Making that choice could save lives and prevent families from experiencing this kind of loss.”
What stories should the Ormond Beach Observer be writing next? Send your ideas to Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas at jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.
Board members will discuss and approve a 2026 legislative platform at its Aug. 26 meetings.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Bob Cerra, of Cerra Consulting Group, presented the Flagler County School Board with options for its state legislative platform that will represent its priorities for the 2026 legislative session.
At the board’s Aug. 12 workshop, Cerra said board members should discuss their priorities during their Aug. 26 workshop and then vote on a platform later that evening at its monthly business meeting.
The School Board’s priorities are slated to be included with Flagler County’s legislative platform and distributed at the local delegation hearing. The deadline for that document is early October, Cerra wrote in a memo to board members. Not adopting a platform on Aug. 26 could risk the School Board’s priorities to be excluded from the county’s document.
“It’s more important that you are in line with your own platform than we make that deadline, but we’d like to make that deadline,” Cerra told the board at the workshop.
The consulting group suggested the board support the
Dutch Bros Coffee is considering an Ormond Beach location
Another drive-thru coffee shop may be in the works for Ormond Beach, as representatives with national chain Dutch Bros Coffee met with the city’s Site Plan Review Committee on Wednesday, July 30. While no site plan has been submitted to date, the representatives inquired about constructing a 1,000-squarefoot coffee shop at 764
complete education package from the Rural Renaissance proposal, which the Florida Senate passed but was not included in the 2025 state budget.
The package would include grants to Flagler Schools of between $1.5 million and $2.25 million while also strengthening the North East Florida Educational Consortium, of which Flagler is a member district. The grants could be used broadly to fund eight district priority areas, Cerra said, adding that strengthening NEFEC while bringing significant recurring revenues to the district “would be a clean win for the board.”
The consulting group’s second suggested local priority would be to have all students served by the school district to be counted for Public Education Capital Outlay purposes when determining sharing requirements ,including adult education students and voluntary prekindergarten students.
Charter schools get funded 100% from the PECO program for their students in sharing local funding for capital purposes. School districts do not get credit for VPK or adult career education students in those formulas.
Board members were asked in advance of the Aug. 26 workshop to pick from those or other local priorities and pick statewide priorities that they want to support.
W. Granada Blvd., a 1-acre property located next to the recently constructed Extra Space Storage building. According to the meeting’s minutes, the coffee shop would have two drive-thru lanes and a neo-eclectic architectural design style. The intended use is allowed as part of the existing development order for Ormond Central, which was approved in 2017. Dutch Bros was founded in 1992 in Oregon. The company has over 1,000 locations across 19 states. A Dutch Bros location opened in February in Daytona Beach at 1431 Beville Road.
The district’s tentative capital plan includes between $12.5 million and $13.5 million to be spent each year through 2029-2030.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Flagler County School Board discussed the district’s tentative five-year capital plan that includes between $12.5 million and $13.5 million to be spent on new construction, major projects and maintenance each year through 2029-2030.
At the Aug. 12 workshop, Plant Services Director Kory Bush presented the plan. The most expensive project this year is replacing a chiller and adding 13 new ice tanks at Flagler Palm Coast high School with a cost of $2,425,000.
Board member Janie Ruddy asked if athletic field improvements at Matanzas High School, including replacing aluminum bleachers, would be added to the capital plan in the future.
Plant Services Director Kory Bush said Matanzas was originally built with no athletic fields. Superintendent
LaShakia Moore said there have been meetings with district and Matanzas administrators about what they want to see. She said comparisons can’t be made to what is spent at Flagler Palm Coast High School because those dollars are not allocated to beautify but to keep a much older facility structurally sound.
“The facilities Matanzas has, it has outgrown,” Moore said. “We don’t want to prioritize one sport.”
Moore said for now the district is looking at sound, easy fixes. Matanzas, which recently completed a $23 million school expansion, is not currently included on the five-year plan for athletic improvements.
“We don’t have dollars assigned yet,” Moore said.
“The facilities Matanzas has, it has outgrown. We don’t want to prioritze one sport.”
Oversight led to 60 deficiencies at Bunnell Elementary; most were lighting failures on exit signs, emergency lights.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
District staff presented the Flagler County School Board with the results of the 2025 Life Safety Casualty Inspection for all of the district’s campuses and off-site facilities. Sixty deficiencies were found at Bunnell Elementary School. No other campus or site had more than eight.
District Safety Specialist David Bossardet said all of the deficiencies at all of the sites have been corrected.
The vast majority of the BES deficiencies were related to illumination failures on exit signs and emergency lights, Bossardet said.
Plant services personnel are tasked with doing monthly inspections, and those deficiencies would have been caught before the annual
Speaker Daniel Perez said he is setting up a select committee to look into redrawing congressional districts, as Republicans seek to keep control of Congress in 2026.
TURNER
Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez said Thursday, Aug. 7, he is setting up a select committee to look into redrawing congressional districts, as Republicans seek to keep control of Congress in 2026.
The Miami Republican’s announcement came as Texas Republicans have moved forward with a controversial mid-decade redistricting plan and as the White House has pressured other GOPcontrolled states, including Florida, Missouri and South Carolina, to follow suit.
Meanwhile, leaders of Democratic-controlled states, such as California, Illinois and New York, have weighed possibly redrawing districts to help Democrats. Flipping a handful of seats either way could determine which party controls the U.S. House, which Republicans now hold by a slim margin.
that keeping such a district would be an unconstitutional racial gerrymander and pressured lawmakers for an overhaul that included drawing District 5 in the Jacksonville area. White Republicans have won all North Florida congressional seats under the new map. The Supreme Court case involved the interplay of the U.S. Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause and the state Fair Districts standards, which include prohibiting drawing districts that would “diminish” the ability of minorities to “elect representatives of their choice” --often called a “non-diminishment” requirement.
Voting-rights groups that contested the new District 5 lines argued that the overhaul violated that non-diminishment requirement because it effectively prevented Black voters in North Florida from electing a candidate of their choice.
Perez’s announcement Thursday came after DeSantis in recent weeks has repeatedly raised the idea of redrawing congressional districts. Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, issued a statement Thursday calling it “deeply troubling” that Florida lawmakers would explore the issue.
spring inspection which Palm Coast Fire Department and Flagler County Emergency Services assist the district with. But due to being shortstaffed and a change of staff because an employee and his replacement both went on emergency medical leave, the regular inspections weren’t completed and reports weren’t properly checked, Bossardet and Plant Services Director Kory Bush said.
Since then, new processes have been put in place to guarantee oversight in the future, Bossardet and Bush said.
“We’ve made adjustments to our (standard operating procedure) moving forward to make sure this doesn’t happen again,” Bossardet said.
Bossardet said there would have been warnings if the batteries were going dead, but monthly checks would have found that they were wearing down.
“Had there been an emergency and all the deficiencies had been there, there would have been a big price to pay,” Board Chair Will Furry said. “We have to make sure these new controls will take care of this problem.”
Perez said the select committee is a response to a July 17 decision by the Florida Supreme Court that upheld a congressional map Gov. Ron DeSantis pushed through the Legislature in 2022. Opponents argued the map violated a 2010 “Fair Districts” constitutional amendment that set standards for redistricting.
In a memo to state House members, Perez said the committee would review the “applicability and interpretation of certain provisions of the so-called ‘Fair Districts’ provisions of the Florida Constitution and their intersection with federal law.”
“Exploring these questions now, at the mid-decade point, would potentially allow us to seek legal guidance from our Supreme Court without the uncertainty associated with deferring those questions until after the next decennial census and reapportionment,” Perez said in the memo.
Redistricting typically happens once a decade after the U.S. census. The last round of redistricting happened in 2022.
The Supreme Court ruling last month centered on North Florida’s Congressional District 5, which in the past stretched from Jacksonville to west of Tallahassee and elected Black Democrat Al Lawson.
During the 2022 redistricting process, DeSantis argued
“Redrawing Congressional maps outside of the standard post - census cycle threatens fair representation, undermines the intent of our democratic system, and risks silencing our diverse communities,” Eskamani said. “We will do everything in our power to fight back on these efforts, reject partisan gerrymandering and uphold the principles of transparency and equal justice for Florida voters.”
Dan Vicuna, senior policy director of voting and fair representation at the national organization Common Cause, said last week the group would file lawsuits to challenge new redistricting plans, regardless of whether they were drawn by Republicans or Democrats.
While the “non-diminishment” standard was a focus of the Supreme Court ruling ,the Fair Districts standards also say, in part, that no “apportionment plan or individual district shall be drawn with the intent to favor or disfavor a political party or an incumbent.”
In asking House members if they want to participate in the select committee, Perez warned they would be disqualified if they publicly express opinions that “suggest an intent to favor or disfavor an incumbent or political party.”
Committee members are expected to be announced with other committee assignments in September.
Held at European Village, the free event invited the community to meet FCSO members, receive safety information and try out the agency’s new virtual reality simulator.
OBSERVER STAFF
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office held its annual Safety Expo on Saturday, Aug. 9.
Held at European Village, the free event invited the community meet FCSO mem-
bers, receive safety information and try out the agency’s new virtual reality “shoot, don’t shoot” simulator. Free document shredding was also available.
Partners in attendance included the Flagler Sheriff’s Police Athletic League, Family Life Center, Flagler County Fire Department, Flagler County Sheriff’s Explorers Post 410, Palm Coast Fire, Flagler Volunteer Services, Florida Highway Patrol, Flagler County, Florida Fish and Wildlife and the Flagler Humane Society.
A fixture in the museum since Nov. 8, 2008, the space closed its doors on Aug. 8. A new dinosaur-themed exhibit will open in the space on Oct. 11.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
EDITOR
MANAGING
After 17 years of serving the community, the Children’s Museum at the Museum of Arts and Sciences is bidding the community goodbye — at least for a little while.
As MOAS prepares to begin the first phase of its future major expansion and renovation project, made possible by a $150 million endowment by Ormond Beach philanthropists Cici and J. Hyatt Brown,
the exhibits inside the Children’s Museum will be taken down. A fixture in the museum since Nov. 8, 2008, the space closed its doors at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, following a community farewell event where visitors were invited to share memories of their time in the museum.
The transformation of the space was scheduled to begin on Saturday, Aug, 9.
The closure of the Children’s Museum is a reminder of the next chapter for MOAS.
“It’s very exciting,” MOAS Chief Advancement Officer Jonna Royer said. “However, it is also sad. There are a lot of people that enjoy the Children’s Museum and use it as a weekly outing with their kids, but we just want to reassure them that it’s not going away forever. It’s just going away for now.”
MOAS does plan to open a
new, reimagined Children’s Museum experience in its future building, slated to span two stories and 60,000 square feet on 60 acres at 352 S. Nova Road.
But in the meantime, Royer said they don’t want the current Children’s Museum space to remain empty. So, on Oct. 11, it will be home to a new exhibit — “Expedition: Dinosaur,” which will feature animatronic dinosaurs, fossil displays and interactive learning stations. A special member preview will be held on Oct. 10, and the exhibit will be on display through March 29.
And while many of the Children’s Museum’s interactive elements will be donated to Burns Science and Technology Charter School in Oak Hill, not all are going away. Two popular areas will remain: the Tiny Tots area and the Pizza Place, an exhibit where children can imagine they’re operating a pizza restaurant.
“People love the Pizza Place area so much that over this last week, we have had papers and crayons out so that children can draw their favorite part of the Children’s Museum, and inevitably, most of those pictures are actually a pizza,” Royer said.
There have been a lot of stories shared by the public of memories made in the Children’s Museum, she added.
It’s been amazing to see, she said, because you don’t often realize what an impact the museum can have on the community.
“To walk in and just see the excitement, to see how much the kids enjoy being in there ... and then just giving the parents that little bit of respite where they know that they’re in a space where their children can play and the parents can relax and just be able to enjoy themselves, that’s a nice thing to be able to offer,” Royer said.
To keep the public informed of updates on the upcoming museum transformation, MOAS has launched a new website — moasfuture.org.
The concepts on the website are very general for now, Royer said. The museum is still in the initial stages of the building project, which she said Hyatt Brown likes to call the “Wow” building.
“The whole idea behind it is when people walk up to it, they’re going to go, ‘Wow,’” Royer said. “And that’s the kind of experience that we want them to have in it, too. We want them to come in and go, ‘Wow’ just because of what they’re experiencing.”
The new building is being guided by the museum’s strategic plan — from how it will be constructed to the programs and exhibits it will offer.
According to MOAS, the
• AW Custom Kitchens
• Balance
• Cork & Pint
• Mezzaluna Pizzeria
• Red Clover Spirits and Eats
Browns’ endowment, known as the “Crown Jewel Campaign,” is the largest cultural donation in Florida’s history.
“This really is their legacy gift,” Royer said. “They want this museum to be something that outlasts them and is available, not just for Daytona and not even just for Volusia County, but it’s going to become an icon for all of Central Florida. To have the monetary gift that they have given us shows people that we’re very serious about having this be that cornerstone.”
In addition to donations, the community can help MOAS in its transition by granting them patience and understanding, Royer said.
“We understand that they may be frustrated as some things close down, but also we want them to look forward and get as excited as we are, because with what is coming, we are going to be able to offer so much more than what we can offer right now,” Royer said. “But, in order to do that, we have to have some growing pains, and that’s going to be some inconveniences of things closing. We just hope that when those things do close, the public realizes that it’s not something to be upset about — it’s something to celebrate, because that means that we are one step closer to coming up with the finished product.”
• Red Koi Sushi & Hibachi
• The Glam Studio Hair Salon
• The Village Pub
• Turtle Shack Cafe
• Village Jewelry
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Roy Young first came to Halifax Urban Ministries as a volunteer in the kitchen. A kitchen that feeds about 400 people a day. Young was ready to get to work. He asked to be first in line to help plate up the entree, and while the chef agreed to his request, she had one of her own: First, they all needed to pray.
“It changed me,” Young said. “It changed my whole take on what we’re doing here, the fact that this is really God’s work and we ask for his guidance, and we thank him for the ability to work hard and to take care of other people. All of the sudden, I wasn’t working in the kitchen. I was feeding people.”
Young was hired as HUM’s new executive director in late July. A resident of Ormond Beach, Young is a member of St. James Episcopal Church, where he also serves as the church’s secretary.
He comes to HUM, a nonprofit
that works to address food and housing needs for residents in Volusia and Flagler counties, with two decades of nonprofit experience, working for the preservation of historic sites including Mount Vernon, George Washington’s historic estate; Fallingwater, a Frank Lloyd Wright property in Pennsylvania; and Montpelier, the historic home of the fourth U.S. president, James Madison.
Most recently, Young worked for Seniors Helping Seniors, providing companion care to a local veteran.
HUM is the first faith-based nonprofit for which Young has worked.
The biggest difference from his past leadership work, he said, is the fact that as HUM’s executive director, he’s driven by his desire to serve God.
“I really believe and feel it’s been a calling to come here,” Young said.
In July, he learned that HUM was still on the search for a new director during a board meeting, also known as a vestry meeting, at his church.
The previous director, Buck James, had retired in December 2024, and
the organization had been looking for his replacement for a long time.
Young thought to himself, “I could do that.”
“I thought, ‘Maybe this makes sense,’” he recalled. “Maybe God has put me in the right place and even trained me. So, I interviewed.”
And he got the job.
Now at the helm of the nonprofit, Young said he wants to make sure that as the organization grows, they continue to empower people — from those they serve, to the volunteers and staff that help their mission.
Plus, he seeks to raise awareness of their services in hopes of raising more funds to be able to expand programs.
HUM grew slowly since its start in 1981, he said.
“And now we have strong staff, a strong foundation, a strong model, and now we need to increase awareness and finances, so we can share that,” Young said. “Maybe across the world. Maybe across the U.S. Maybe across the state. But, it’s working.”
In the future, he would love to con-
struct another sheltering facility to help more people, particularly those who are released from the hospital without somewhere to go.
HUM is currently developing a new strategic plan, which will guide the nonprofit for its next three to five years.
One of Young’s long-term goals is to see a shift in the funding model: He’d like to see it go to a 50/50 split between grants and private funding. Currently, 75% of the organization is funded through grants, he said, with 93 cents to the dollar of that money going directly to programs and services for individuals.
Getting out in the community and sharing HUM’s mission will be the fun part for him, Young said.
“It’s going to be about peopleing,” he said. “It’s going to be about loving up everybody that’s in front of me and spreading the word, and then asking that critical question: How would you like to invest in your community?”
To learn more about HUM, visit halifaxurbanministries.org.
FCSO: Slow down and stay alert as students head back to school
The 2025-26 school year began on Monday, Aug. 11, and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will increase patrols around school zones and residential bus stops to reinforce traffic safety, education and awareness before students return to class. With the return of yellow school buses on the road, Sheriff Rick Staly reminds drivers of the traffic laws when approaching a stopped school bus displaying red lights and an extended stop sign: Vehicles traveling in both directions must stop on a two-lane road. Vehicles traveling in both directions must stop on a multi-lane paved road.
On a divided highway with an unpaved space or physical barrier, vehicles traveling behind the bus must stop. Vehicles traveling in the opposite direction should proceed with caution.
“As students head back to school, it is critical that everyone remains alert and slows down, especially when traveling through school zones, bus stops and residential areas,” Staly said. “Plan a few extra minutes for your commute and be especially mindful of crosswalks. The slightest distraction could have deadly consequences.”
Message boards will be displayed throughout the county in high-traffic areas when school is in session to remind drivers that “Safety is as simple as ABC (Always Be Careful).”
The beginning of the school year is also an important time for parents to talk to their children about basic safety, including how to handle strangers and who to go to if they need help. Be sure to remind your children that making threats is illegal and what they should do to de-escalate an argument.
“Be the sheriff of your home and report any threat you see or read,” Staly said. “Remember, if you see something, say something to a teacher, school administrator or school resource deputy.” For non-emergency issues, call 386-313-4911.
Johnny and Brandy Doering reopened and rebranded their restaurant under a new name: ‘Hammock Grill by JT’s.’
SIERRA WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
After just three years in retirement, the original owners of JT’s Seafood Shack are back in charge of the restaurant and have rebranded under a new name: The Hammock Grill by JT’s.
Owner Johnny Doering said he and his wife, Brandy, left the Seafood Shack after the COVID-19 pandemic. They sold the building, leased the land out and entered retirement.
“At the end of Covid, we were just exhausted,” Doering said. “I mean, we were just pretty much done.”
The Hammock Grill by JT’s is located in the same building that housed JT’s Seafood Shack, located at 5224 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. The Doerings reopened in February after partnering with longtime employee and Executive Chef Jay McNitt and his wife, Kayla.
The Doerings originally purchased the building in 2001. At the time, Doering said, it had been a biker bar, with a tattoo parlor and trailers out back. It took a lot of work to clean up the place and build up the reputation into the Seafood Shack.
For the next 20 years, the two ran JT’s Seafood Shack, keeping it going even through the COVID-19 pandemic. But it was only three years into their retirement that the
Doerings decided to reclaim ownership of the restaurant.
“[The building] was in disrepair. Its reputation had taken a beating,” Doering said. “We kind of came back in and decided to re-brand, remodel, and do what needed to be done.”
With the rebrand, Brandy Doering said, not only did the building need cleaning up but the atmosphere and decor needed an update, too, to keep up with the changes in the community.
They came back with “new everything,” cleaning the inside and outside of the building.
“We were very busy before [as JT’s Seafood Shack,” Brandy Doering said. “I think we’ll get back to that.”
Now, the restaurant can seat a total of 160, including 60-70 seats in the outdoor space, which has a small, covered seating and outdoor games.
The outdoor space, he said, is open for events of all kinds, from wedding receptions to holiday parties.
The menu also received a face lift, with new recipes and specials created by Jay McNitt. Doering said the team works hard to keep the menu affordable and under $30 an entree. Even the specials, which he said are more like featured dishes, Doering and McNitt try to keep under or at $30.
“We’re trying to make it a place that is affordable and family friendly,” Doering said.
The specials change every Wednesday and include dinner and lunch entrees as well
as cocktails and desserts.
is working to build back the restaurant’s reputation, but in the meantime they’re open for business from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the summer and until 9 p.m. in the winter.
he and his wife have gotten to see a lot of the customers they got to know before their short retirement. They’re also meeting a lot of new people. growth in the area since we left, so we’re excited about
Nancy and Merwin Olson were married on Aug. 13, 1955 in Bristol, Connecticut.
CATHIE BUCH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Nancy and Merwin Olson of Palm Coast celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Aug. 13. Their enduring love story began in Bristol, Connecticut, thanks to a beloved geometry teacher who invited Nancy and her friend, Judy Anderson, to her wedding. Merwin, serving as an usher for the groom, caught Nancy’s eye. Not long after, they were officially introduced on a double date with Judy and her boyfriend. That date marked the beginning of a relationship that has stood the test of time.
Nancy and Merwin married on Aug. 13, 1955, and honey-
Meet OMAM’s featured art night family for August
The Nolan family was selected as Ormond Memorial Art Museum’s featured family from the museum’s Aug. 1 Free Family Art Night event. The Nolans — Mike, Kim and Valerie — are residents of Ormond Beach and love the museum’s gardens, but had never attended the art night event, according to a statement from OMAM. “I like making arts and crafts, especially princesses
mooned at Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. On their journey home, they found themselves in the path of Hurricane Diane. With widespread flooding and closed bridges across Connecticut, they had to reroute through New York to return safely to Bristol, an unexpected adventure that became part of their shared history.
and coloring,” Valerie said.
OMAM’s Family Art Night takes place from 5:30-7 p.m. on most first Fridays of the month. All art supplies are provided. The next event will be held on Sept. 5..
The Friends of the Ormond Beach Library recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Samantha LaPointe. LaPointe will begin her freshman year at Daytona State College, with an initial goal of earning her associate’s degree, according to a press release.
Nancy and Merwin raised three children and are now the proud grandparents of two and great-grandparents of three. Family has always been the cornerstone of their lives, and they feel especially blessed that their children and grandchildren live nearby. In honor of this milestone anniversary, family and friends will gather to celebrate the
couple’s legacy of love and devotion.
When asked about the secret to a long and happy marriage, Nancy shared, “A lot of things go into making a marriage happy. The most important are love, compatibility, communication, give and take and being able to laugh.”
“This stipend is awarded as an acknowledgement of appreciation for her successful contributions to the Ormond Beach Library and best wishes for a successful start to her academic career,” the press release states.
The City Repertory Theatre is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year with audience favorites from previous seasons, new works, a special concert series and more.
The CRT announced its
season schedule which opens Sept. 19 with “Avenue Q,” the Tony Award-winning, raunchy puppet romp that originally played at CRT in 2014. Next up is “Around the World in 80 Days,” beginning Nov. 14. The hilarious adaptation of Jules Verne’s novel was last produced by CRT as an outdoor production during COVID.
Rounding out the fall season is “It’s a Wonderful Life,” beginning Dec. 5. This classic holiday script, last seen on the CRT stage in 2012, will be performed as a radio play.
CRT’s spring season will begin Jan. 9, 2026, with “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” followed by “The Colored Museum” (Feb. 20), “Yasmina Reza’s Art” (March 20) with an all-female cast and Horowitz’ “Line” paired with selections from David Ives’ “All in the Timing” (April 24).
The CRT’s concert series, “Evenings With ...,” will be interwoven through the season. The series will feature actors and musicians from the CRT resident company.
All performances take place at City Repertory Theatre, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, B-207,
Nancy and Merwin’s
is a
and beautiful testament to lasting love. Their story continues to inspire all who know them.
Cathie Buch is Merwin and Nancy Olson’s daughter.
Merwin agreed, “Having a good sense of humor helps,” he said. “And it doesn’t hurt that Nancy is a great cook.”
Palm Coast. A black-box theater with just 45 seats, CRT’s space highlights the work of its talented actors while it draws the audience close to the action. For season or single-show tickets, call 386585-9415 or go to crtpalmcoast.com. Season tickets for all seven plays are $165, a 10% discount off single ticket prices.
Ormond-by-the-Sea Lions Club’s new officers installed for 2025-2026
The Ormond-by-the-Sea Lions Club has announced its new officers for the 20252026 Lions year. The officers were installed by Volusia County Tax Collector Will Roberts at the July 2 meeting. They are: President: Lion Aleta Dick First Vice President: Lion Jean Cerullo Second Vice President: Lion Kathleen Trutschel
Secretary: Lion Katie Hamlin
Directors: Lions Maureen Hamilton, Richard Snyder and Melinda Uebel
Tail Twister: Lion Anne Thompson
Lion Tamer: Lion Frank White
Additionally, on July 4, members assisted with filling 100 welcome bags for the dignitaries to be used at the 107th International Convention in Orlando later that month. This Lion Club meets on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. For more information, call 386-441-4421.
Make yourself at home
Luke reminded me to catch up to the times.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
I’m not a video game player, but my 7-year-old son, Luke, talked me into it on Monday morning, the first day of school. We were killing time for a few minutes, waiting for the right moment to leave for the bus. Then, just as I was getting the hang of it — just as I was actually winning at Super Smash Bros for once — my wife, Hailey, walked in and said, “It’s 8:30! You’re supposed to be on the bus!” I looked at Luke. Luke looked at me.
“I thought it was supposed to be 8:30?” I said. That didn’t make a lot of sense, either, because even if the bus had been scheduled for 8:30, I would still have been late.
Concrete plant would pose an environmental risk in Palm Coast
Dear Editor: Here we go again with another proposed environmentally controversial project in our town. A few months ago residents faced and thankfully defeated a troublesome oil tank farm. Now we have a concrete producing plant on the table for City Council consideration. The projects are similar in that they both rely on hazardous elements to exist. And both raise questions of environmental risk irrespective of each company’s sales pitch claims and promises of safeguards.
An oil spill was the major concern with the oil tank farm while the airborne release of toxic particulates is the main worry with the now proposed concrete plant. Both companies have been cited by the EPA for environmental problems for varying reasons with the concrete company as recently as three months ago for polluting Hutchinson River in New York’s Westchester County. Although both companies made risk mitigation and operational safeguard promises that sounded credible and high tech, there is one
We rushed to the car and drove off, in search of another bus stop later in the route, so that Luke could hitch a ride the rest of the way. As we drove, I asked for Luke’s opinion of my first-day-ofschool faux pas. “I thought the bus came at 8:30,” I said again. “That was last year,” he said. “There’s something called ‘this year.’”
There were a few other cars waiting for the bus, so I figured we were in the right place. A few seconds later, the bus arrived. Just as I was going to praise Luke for being a good boy, and tell him how proud I was of him, all that mushy stuff, he bolted. The first day of second grade awaited. He sprinted across the street to climb on the bus.
Every year, everything is the same. And every year, everything is different. When life changes occur, I find myself wanting to create a memory, perhaps as a way to stop time, just as it seems to be rushing by.
And so, the day before the first day of school, I went for a Sunday stroll with Luke. Trying to ignore the heat, we walked along a canal toward a rentention pond. He asked to pause to pick up some rocks on a ramp, so that he’d have something to throw when we reached the water.
From the street, I watched him from a distance as he bent down and picked up the rocks, and I couldn’t help but think of the young David, as he was picking up stones before he faced Goliath.
In addition to the small rocks that now filled his pockets, Luke lugged two large chunks of asphalt to toss into the water. He gave me one to carry, and, when we reached the end of the dock at the pond, he directed me to drop it into the water at the precise time he dropped his.
A grand, double sploosh.
The sound wasn’t all that remarkable to me, but of course it delighted Luke, and he cheered. It was a Christoper Robin-and-Winnie the Pooh moment. Sometimes, I feel like Christopher Robin, sometimes like Pooh. Luke then threw his small
rocks into the water, and he went to hunt some more. But before he could find any, he screamed because he had found a wasp nest instead. Shaken, he said we should just go home.
Walking into the breeze along the canal, I told him that the rocks made me think of David and Goliath. I asked him if he could think of a lesson to be learned from the stones. What stones do we need so that we can face the Goliaths in our lives?
His answer surprised me: “You need strength from Jesus Christ, you need a slingshot, a stone and a trial.”
“OK,” I said, “good answer. And what does ‘strength from Jesus’ mean to you?”
He thought for a moment and said, “When I’m lying, I can have strength from Jesus because he helps me to admit it.”
There is much wisdom in the vulnerability of children.
As Luke grows up, all I can do is hope and pray he will continue to seek divine guidance and to admit it when he’s wrong.
Speaking of which, tomorrow, I will get to the bus stop on time. I can admit that I was stuck in “last year.”
old fashioned but universal truth in play … “stuff” happens. Regardless of the sophistication of any system, no matter how state of the art it is, ultimately it will be susceptible to failure due to a variety of possible causes including a design flaw, human error or a number of unpredictable external reasons. You can only reduce the likelihood of failure, never eliminate it. So, in time, for whatever cause, it’s reasonable to conclude it will happen, and with possible dire consequences. The concrete company vying for a presence in Palm Coast relies on crystalline silica as an integral and very substantial component of their product. Crystalline silica dust, produced during concrete production, is a known human carcinogen and any failure of their claimed high tech filtration system could be a serious event. Such a potential failure, with the release of a cancer causing airborne element, especially near a populated area, should be of major concern and consideration in the City Council approval process. The concrete plant will be only 4,000 feet from local neighborhoods. In the past, the City Council, and especially the mayor, who promoted the oil tank
farm, were remiss in their vetting and due diligence responsibilities. That should not happen again.
The council is appearing way too desperate to find companies to locate in our town. We can do much better, much safer and much cleaner. We shouldn’t ever have to worry about the environmental risks posed by any hazardous material companies seeking to locate in Palm Coast. The concrete company idea and all such risky proposals should see the same justified fate of the oil tank farm fiasco.
ETHAN KANTOR Palm Coast
Dear Editor:
My daughter, an ICU nurse for 38 years, told me that 50% of the money spent on healthcare is in the last two years of life. An MD friend further clarified that 50% of that money is spent in the last three months.
My question is, how much did these people enjoy that last three months? If you look at the most pitiful patients in our nursing homes or memory care, and ask yourself if you would want to end up like this, what would you say?
Thus, my quest to make Florida allow assisted dying. Controls must be in place including a witnessed legal document / living will that is witnessed by a professional, not a child or other that could have ulterior motives. For those that want to exercise this right, they could document their own conditions such as:
When I say I am ready.
When I am bedfast and no longer in control of my bodily functions.
If I no longer recognize my children, my medical power of attorney can pick the time.
When I am in such pain that I need a constant morphine drip.
The right to an assisted death is not a mass execution of the elderly. It simply gives every requesting person the right to die on their terms, with less discomfort, and with dignity.
For-profit assisted living/ nursing home investors are not emotionally attached to you or your loved ones. Their only attachment is spelled r-e-v-e-n-u-e. Their powerful lobbyists will fight new legislation, but the power of the people can prevail!
I hope that everyone that reads this will call or write our Florida lawmakers and hometown papers and encourage other Floridian friends around the state to do the same. It will take a grass roots effort to make this
change in Florida.
PHILIP TUCKER Palm Coast
Ormond Beach property tax increase
Dear Editor: I find it ironic that while Gov. DeSantis promotes lowering property taxes, and a local grassroots movement works to slow development growth, our City Council seems comfortable raising property taxes on Ormond Beach homeowners and small-business owners. With new home construction, ongoing development, and strong home resale activity already boosting tax revenues, the city should be seeing increased income without needing a steep hike. Before approving a 10% increase, we need a thorough, transparent audit to determine the true financial need and justification. Arbitrarily selecting a percentage simply because “we need it” is not sound fiscal policy.
BRIAN HILGERS Ormond-by-the-Sea
Bear hunt is a threat to the species
Dear Editor: Many residents of Palm
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Coast have expressed an interest in and appreciation of our natural environment. We have seen manatees, alligators, snakes, bobcats, deer, Florida panthers (mountain lion), and even the black bear. When a situation comes up that may threaten this wonderful rainbow of native creatures living all around us we must take steps to prevent this from happening. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission staff has presented a plan to the commissioners for their approval to initiate a statewide bear hunting season beginning this December. Research shows that the bear is an animal that responds poorly to hunting. This was evidenced the last time Florida had a bear hunt in 2015. Breeding is a slow and dangerous process for bears, and their genetics call for protecting, not removing, the alpha or apex individuals in order to maintain the overall health of the species. So, I am asking all those, like me, concerned about wildlife to contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife commission (myfwc.com) and state your objections to this plan. It won’t work, and it’s up to us to stop it.
JEFFERY C. SEIB Palm Coast
Send letters to jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.
County Schools celebrates the first day of class for 2025-2026.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Volusia County Schools welcomed 56,508 students during the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 11.
As Superintendent Carmen Balgobin greeted the community during a press conference held at DeLand High School, she highlighted recent student and district successes — such as the district’s first “A” grade since 2008 from the Florida Department of Education. Throughout the day, Balgobin and her team visited several schools, recognizing students’ achievements.
“We’re here gathered today to honor, truly honor, this spirit of what’s called perseverance, collaboration and excellence, because those are the definitives that define Volusia County Public Schools,” Balgobin said.
Balgobin highlighted the district’s 96% traditional high school graduation rate, as well as improved performance in
seven of the 12 components evaluated in state assessments. These include English, math, science and social studies, in which Balgobin said student performance is the “best that it’s ever been in over a decade.”
Additionally, Balgobin said that every subgroup of students — such as Black, white, Hispanic, students with disabilities and English language learners — all showed improvement in the state assessments.
“It’s said that education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world, Balgobin said. “... These gains and the progress that our students and staff have shown through their dedication reflects that commitment, which is to ensure that every student has that power to succeed.”
The district is also reporting a 5% decrease in chronic absenteeism, the first decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.
For her tour of schools during the first day, Balgobin visted both Ormond Beacharea high schools: Mainland and Seabreeze. Both are “A” schools. Mainland High reached this mile-
stone for the first time for the 2024-2025 year.
Mainland Principal Melissa Fraine, decked out in a bedazzled jacket spelling out her Buc Pride for the first day of school, said the entire school community is celebrating.
“It means everything,” she said to Balgobin. “These kids are so proud.”
Seabreeze High School recently received a “A” grade for the second consecutive year.
Principal Tucker Harris said he was honored to be a small part of “a very big and special thing.”
“Execution is where it happens and that execution takes place in the classrooms and the execution takes place up here with all the clerical staff ... it takes everyone to play their positions and play them at a high level,” Harris said.
District-wide, 75% of all VCS schools are either an “A” or “B” school.
“These are not just numbers,” Balgobin said. “No. We celebrate academic achievement. We celebrate a community that believes in its children — that invests in their future and never stop stops thriving for excellence because every student in
Volusia County deserves an excellent education.”
Academic achievement as well as safety and security, the superintendent said, are two priorities for the upcoming school year.
“We are on that momentum and we will not stop,” Balgobin said.
BY THE NUMBERS
56,508 students enrolled at Volusia County Schools for 2025-2026. When factoring in charter school students, enrollment rises to 60,513 students
165 bus routes — all covered.
4,000 teachers employed. There are 31 classroom vacancies. Last year, the district reported 75 on the first day of school.
THURSDAY, AUG. 14
TIGER BAY CLUB OF VOLUSIA COUNTY AUGUST
MEETING
When: 12-1 p.m.
Where: Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Details: This month’s guest speaker will be U.S. Rep. Randy Fine. Social time begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon is at noon. Guests are welcome with a reservation. Email dconnors@tigerbayclubvolusia.org.
ART OF HEALING
WORKSHOP: FELTED SOAP
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Guest instructor Liz Canali will lead this workshop where participants will explore how wool becomes felt and learn the process of felting to create a useful soap and washcloth combo. No art experience is necessary and all supplies are provided. Free. Registration required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
FRIDAY, AUG. 15
TURTLE TALK
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers
Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach
Details: Learn about the role sea turtles play in Florida and how your actions can help preserve these animals for generations. All ages welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Park entry fee applies.
SATURDAY, AUG. 16
GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PANTRY FOOD
DISTRIBUTION
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Parking lot across Gods Family Bible Church, 256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell Details: God’s Family Bible Church distributes food every first and third Saturday in this drive-thru event.
GALLERY TALK WITH CHANNING GRAY
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Exhibiting artist Channing Gray will present an in-depth talk about her solo exhibition, “Into Neverland: Swirling Dreams of Southern Memories.” A Q+A session will follow. Free program. Registration requested. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
SUNDAY, AUG. 17
COFFEE WITH CATS
When: 12-3 p.m.
Where: Flagler Humane
Society, 1 Shelter Drive, Palm Coast
Details: Join the Flagler Humane Society for an afternoon of coffee, conversation and adoptable cats. Free admission. Donations appreciated. The FHS is in need of wet kitten food, cat food and kitten milk replacement. Feline adoptions are all 50% off and all adult cats are BOGO.
TUESDAY, AUG. 19
FOOD TRUCK TUESDAY
When: 5-8 p.m.
Where: Central Park, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Food Truck Tuesday, presented in partnership with the Observer, is back, and this month’s event supports the Matanzas Band of Pirates and Guard Booster Club. Order appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts. Registration is not required.
FLAGLER TIGER BAY CLUB
ANNUAL MEETING
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast
Details: Join the Flagler Tiger Bay Club in celebrating its seventh anniversary. In addition to the annual meeting, the event will also feature a wine tasting meet-and-greet social. Advanced registration required. Event costs $40 for members and guests. Visit FlaglerTigerBayClub.com.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
PROBUS CLUB OF PALM COAST
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Cypress Knoll Golf & Country Club, 53 Easthampton Blvd., Palm Coast
Details: Join this social club for retired and semiretired men and women that meets monthly with a guest speaker on a topic of interest, with other social events during the month. This month’s guest speaker is Jessica Scheidler Grossberg. On Friday, Aug. 22, the club is touring the new wastewater treatment plant. All are welcome. Stay for lunch if you’d like. For more information, contact Larry Wright at palmcoastprobusclub@gmail.com.
ART TALK: 19TH CENTURY NEOCLASSICISM, ROMANTICISM & REALISM
When: 2-3 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Guest curator Ruth Grim looks at the art movements surrounding the Age of Revolution, as well as the highly consequential years that followed. Free admission. Registration requested as seats are limited.
THURSDAY, AUG. 21
THIRD THURSDAY DOCENT TOUR
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: This one-hour tour includes select pieces from OMAM’s Malcolm Fraser permanent collection, the John Wilton installation in the stairway gallery, a walk through the gardens to learn more about the military tributes, and a tour of the historic Emmons Cottage. Meet inside the museum’s reception gallery by 11 a.m.
LET’S TALK PALM COAST — A TOWN HALL SERIES
When: 5-6 p.m.
Where: Waterfront Room at the Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast
Details: Meet City Council member David Sullivan as he hosts a town hall. Get a chance to ask questions and learn more about local government in this open forum.
CANVAS & COCKTAILS
When: 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Artist Stacey Frates will guide this social evening in the museum, where guests will paint a hibiscus flower and monstera leaf. Open to all skill levels. Pre-sketched canvases will be available for those who want them. Event costs $40 for members and $50 for non-members and includes light bites, one drink, supplies and instruction. Additional drinks available for purchase.
ORMOND BEACH AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB
When: 6:30-8:15 p.m.
Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Attend the August meeting of the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club. Likeminded guests are welcome to attend. Visit ormondbeachdems.org.
FRIDAY, AUG. 22
SENIOR HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast
Details: Flagler Radio is hosting a free expo, presented by AdventHealth, where attendees can receive free vision screenings, hearing screenings and blood sugar checks. There will be free coffee and cash grab envelopes for the first 50 people.
BEACHSIDE GARAGE OPEN HOUSE When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Birthplace of Speed Park, 21 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: The Motor Racing Heritage Association will host an open house at the Ormond Garage model at the Birthplace of Speed Park. The garage holds the two replica race cars that competed in the first sanctioned race on the beach in March 1903.
RECIPES AND READS
CULINARY LAB: THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD — BEEF
When: 11 a.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library
Details: Learn the history of Florida beef in this cooking demonstration, presented by library staff. Free event.
ACOUSTIC JAM
When: 2-5 p.m.
Where: Hammock Community Center, 79 Mala Compra Road, Palm Coast
Details: Sing? Play an acoustic stringed instrument? Bring your instrument, a folding chair and join other local amateur musicians of all ages for a jam session. Free.
FRIDAY, AUG. 23
SURFERS FOR AUTISM
When: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 7th Street South to 8th Street South, Flagler Beach
Details: Participants will surf twice and the event will feature a DJ, games, raffles, free sunscreen, water and lunch. Visit https://surfersforautism. org/registration.
DANCE FUNDRAISER
When: 10:45 a.m.
Where: Gold’s Gym Ormond Beach, 333 W. Granada Blvd., Suite 200, Ormond Beach
Details: Proceeds go toward purchasing school supplies for local children. $10 donation requested to participate. Call the front desk at both the Ormond and Daytona gym locations, 386-310-7863 and 386-281-5959, respectively.
The event featured an educational component, with the Ormond Beach Police Department conducting a safety briefing.
Having
to Excellence Global Inc. held its annual Carrying Hope Back 2 School event on Saturday, Aug. 9. The event, held at the South Ormond Neighborhood Center, was open to Ormond Beach residents and featured educational sessions, free school supplies, games and food. The nonprofit was joined by the Ormond Beach Police Department, which conducted a back-to-school safety briefing.
For the nonprofit’s founder and event organizer, Tina Carlyle, the educational piece is the most important part of the annual event.
“Anytime that I can educate and provide a resource and information to parents, to kids, that is the ultimate goal,” said Carlyle, who is also an advanced practice nurse. “Knowl-
edge is power. I tell everybody. When you know better, you can always do better.”
The goal of the event is to prepare children for a good school year, Carlyle said. But, they also want to provide parents with resources and raise awareness on how guidance coun
selors can help, especially in light of changes in the economy and school systems.
Though they had backpacks left over, which Carlyle said they plan on keeping for next year or donating to children in need throughout the school year, she added that giving back in this way warms her heart.
“It makes me sleep well at night to know that this may not have been the number of backpacks that we wanted to give out, but we still made an impact,” she said. “We made an impact on those that were in need.”
The event was largely made possible thanks to donors, which included Gordon Food Service; attorney Rckey Strong with Howell, Buchanan & Strong; attorney James Leford; Attorney Tom Upchurch; Grannie Nannies; Dr. Joel Sebastian; Gainous Funeral Home; First Watch; Access Senior Resources & Consulting LLC; B PHiT Fitness; Bright Star Home Care; and Mike Haynes. Carlyle also thanked her family and the City of Ormond Beach for their support.
Her nonprofit will be presenting the annual Martin Luther King Breakfast celebration next year on Jan. 19, 2025, at SONC.
For more information, or to donate, call Carlyle at 386-527-5918.
Ahouse at 16 Hammock Beach Parkway, in Ocean Hammock, was the top real estate transaction for July 26 to Aug. 1 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Aug. 1, for $1,090,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,715 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $635,000.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 90 San Juan Drive, Unit B203, sold on July 31, for $150,000. Built in 2002, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,113 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $265,000.
A condo at 60 Surfview Drive, Unit 311, sold on July 31, for $465,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,455 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $600,000.
A condo at 2001 Palm Drive, Unit A101, sold on July 31, for $280,000. Built in 2009, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,482 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $220,000.
PALM COAST
Cypress Knoll
A house at 4 Wainwright Place, sold on August 1, for $465,500. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a pool and 2,566 square feet.
Harbor Village Marina
A house at 330 Harbor Village Point North, sold on July 31, for $1,060,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, an elevator, a boat dock, a boat lift and 3,142 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $885,000.
Marineland Beach
A house at 6973 North Ocean Shore Blvd., sold on July 31, for $995,000. Built in 1996, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,288 square feet. It sold in 1999 for $317,000.
Palm Harbor
A house at 9 Cotton Court, sold on August 1, for $735,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has a boat dock and 1,771 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $392,900. A house at 1 Fallon Lane, sold on August 1, for $520,565. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,171 square feet.
Ahouse on the beach at 353 S. Atlantic Ave. was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of July 19-25. The house sold on July 24, for $3.75 million. Built in 1993, the house is a 4/5.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 5,967 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $2,576,300.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 140 Limewood
Place, Unit C, sold on July 25, for $190,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,316 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $198,500.
ORMOND BEACH Breakaway Trails
The house at 3 Slow Stream Way sold on July 23, for $440,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,966 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $300,000.
Golf Manor
The house at 732 Orchard Ave. sold on July 21, for $292,400. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,360 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $152,300.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 3013 Kenmare St. sold on July 23, for $420,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,831 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $400,000.
The house at 3349 Glenshane Way sold on July 24, for $412,775. Built in 2000, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,891 square feet. It last sold in 2007 for $330,000.
Not in subdivision
The house at 431 Riverside Drive sold on July 23, for $250,000. Built in 1949, the
A house at 85 Forsythe Lane, sold on August 1, for
house is a 2/2 and has 1,516 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $137,000.
Plantation Bay
The house at 600 Aldenham Lane sold on July 22, for $565,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 2,446 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $705,000.
The house at 1329 Sunningdale Lane sold on July 24, for $460,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a spa and 2,172 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $214,522.
The Trails
The townhome at 210 Timberline Trail sold on July 24, for $215,000. Built in 1980, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,304 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $230,000.
The townhome at 201 Pine Cone Trail sold on July 24, for $230,000. Built in 1978, the townhome is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,986 square feet. It last sold in 1994 for $70,000.
tub and 2,419 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $585,000.
A house at 6 Criston Court, sold on July 28, for $574,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has a boat dock, a boat lift, a boat house, a hot tub and 2,102 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $307,500.
Reverie at Palm Coast A house at 5 Falmouth Drive, sold on July 31, for $360,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,693 square
Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool and 2,356 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $434,000.
Toscana A house at 111 New Leatherwood Drive, sold on July 31, for $919,500. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a pool house and 2,376 square feet.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report
Tomoka Estates The house at 1085 Indigo Road sold on July 21, for $371,000. Built in 1962, the house is a 2/1.5 and has a separate 1/1 in-law suite, a storage room with a halfbath, a boat dock and 1,136 square feet. It last sold in 2009 for $179,300.
Tomoka Oaks The house at 26 N. St. Andrews Drive sold on July 25, for $506,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, a pool and 3,223 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $350,000.
Woodmere The house at 886 Lindenwood Circle W. sold on July 22, for $350,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,485 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $139,000. The house at 126 Knollwood Circle sold on July 24, for $395,000. Built in 1971, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,704 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $125,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Not in subdivision The house at 10 Alamanda Drive sold on July 24, for $200,000. Built in 1953, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,098 square feet. It last sold in 1978 for $17,500.
Roberta Heights The house at 161 Roberta Road sold on July 23, for $302,800. Built in 1955, the house is a 2/1 and has 915 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $320,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Sifu Adam Williss offers classes for children, teenagers and adults.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Dragon Institute in Bunnell, 501 N. State St., held a second anniversary open house on Saturday, Aug. 9, with a live demo of Wing Chun kung fu featuring the one-inch punch, practical self-defense applications and showcases by Sifu Adam Williss’ students.
The Dragon Institute is the only martial arts school in Flagler County offering kung fu, Williss said. Wing Chun is a style of kung fu embraced by Bruce Lee.
“It’s known for its practical self defense,” Williss said. “It’s a street fighting style.”
For that reason, it initially caught on with adults, but Williss teaches child, teen and adult classes and has students from 5 years old to senior citizens. He teaches about eight classes during the week.
“We’ve got more adult classes,” he said. “We’ve got the most to grow with our kids program, just because I think traditionally, the art was more for practical self defense.”
Wing Chun is not a sport. They don’t really have competitions, Williss said. There are different levels of belts, but there are no fees
Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce names new president/CEO
The Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce has selected its new presi-
related to advancing.
Williss began studying Wing Chun kung fu 30 years ago, when he was 18.
“I grew up in Jacksonville Beach, and there was a school there, and I really didn’t know what it was,” he said. “And then I met my teacher, and he demonstrated what’s called the one-inch punch on me that was originally made famous by Bruce Lee. And man, I just had no idea that, literally, somebody could demonstrate such power from seemingly nowhere. So I was shocked, and I just I wanted more. I started taking classes and I just never stopped.”
Williss opened the first Dragon Institute in 2010 in California. After
dent and CEO: Kristin J. Weiss, who will join the chamber on Oct. 6. Weiss, selected through a nationwide search, will work through the end of the year with current President and CEO Nancy Keefer, who will retire effective Dec. 18, according to a press release.
moving back to Florida he opened the Dragon Institute in Bunnell in 2023.
The style of Wing Chun is not only a practical self-defense, but it is also transformational, Williss said.
“It tries to change you on a mind, body, emotional level,” he said.
The philosophy, Williss said, is the same that Lee famously taught: Be like water, which emphasizes adaptability and the fluidity of life.
“Water is strong,” Willis said. “It created the Grand Canyon. Yet, at the same time it moves around things. It takes the shape of its container, so it’s very much in harmony with everything.”
The farmer’s market will be held every Sunday at Fountain Square Village.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Ormond Beach has a new weekly farmer’s market. Fountain Square Village, located at 142 E. Granada Blvd., is hosting the market every Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring local vendors, attendees can browse goods including baked items, honey, artisan soaps and fresh produce.
The market was organized by Gabi Owens, a massage therapist whose studio, Tranquil Healing, is located in the plaza. When the owner of the plaza approached her about starting a farmer’s market, Owens said she’d love to organize it. Two weeks later, the market was made a reality, with its first event held on Sunday, Aug. 10.
“We just wanted to bring more things to the community,” Owens said. “The farmer’s market that we have is great. It’s just on a Thursday morning.”
Ormond Beach MainStreet has been hosting a weekly farmer’s market at City Hall for years. The market is held 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays.
When Owens worked in health care, she was never able to attend
MainStreet’s market because of the date and time. That’s why Fountain Square Village opted to host theirs on a weekend.
The vendors, Owens added, are also different, for the most part.
As part of two local women’s business groups — Babes, Booze & Business and Biz Bestie — Owens reached out to her contacts to select vendors.
“I joke, ‘I might not have a girl for everything, but I have a girl that has a girl for everything,” Owens said. Fountain Square Village also recently started another new event, Wine Down Wednesdays Sip & Shop Market, featuring artisan vendors. That’s held weekly from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesdays.
“We are excited to welcome Kristin and look forward to working with her to continue to elevate the Daytona Regional Chamber’s mission of providing a platform for businesses to grow and thrive in our region,” said Michael Sznapstajler, who led the chamber’s search committee.
tion by the Daytona Regional Chamber’s board of directors on July 29.
Weiss comes from the Central Fort Bend Chamber in Texas, where she worked for over seven-and-a-half years. She has a total of 15 years’ experience in various chamber positions. She was approved for the CEO posi-
“I am truly honored and excited to join the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce as incoming president and CEO,” Weiss said. “I look forward to collaborating with the dedicated staff, board, and valued members as we continue to advance the region’s vibrant business community.”
Kristin J. Weiss.
Flagler Palm Coast, Seabreeze scrimmage in preseason football officials clinic
MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Local high school football officials held preseason clinic scrimmages on Friday night, Aug. 8, at Spruce Creek High. Flagler Palm Coast and Seabreeze got a chance to gauge their teams’ progress heading into the season as the officials gauged their own progress.
Even though two games — Spruce Creek and Pine Ridge played in the other game — were condensed into a two-hour window due to the threat of lightning, referees utilized the time to practice crucial aspects of officiating including positioning and application of regulations, including equipment infractions.
It also gave the coaches and players a chance to ask officials questions regarding penalties called during the games.
Seabreeze head coach Mike Klein said the scrimmage was an opportunity to evaluate his players in a live situation against another team. He and his staff also got a chance to review the game footage and make adjustments prior to the Sandcrabs’ kickoff classic, Aug. 15 at Titusville Astronaut.
“We got everybody in — everybody got a chance to get out there and kind of show what they know,” Klein said. “In season, typically you’re going to gameplan for what the other team’s doing. For us this week, we didn’t gameplan for what we did today. It was more just like, follow your base rules and what your assignments are on both sides of the ball. It’s a test to see how guys look when we go live against someone else and how well they really know their assignment.”
FPC head coach Patrick Turner is going into his first season with the Bulldogs after coaching Palatka High for four seasons. Following the scrimmage, Turner said he felt confident in his team and proud to see how his players took to coaching and built on that knowledge.
“We saw a lot of improvement on the things that I’ve been doing since I’ve gotten here,” Turner said. “It was a change for everyone. It’s a change in philosophy — change for the coaches and change for the players. Anytime you take over a program, you got to hit the reset button. Then, we’ve got to find our identity and then we’ve got to start building on that identity. I think that’s coming together. I think the team camaraderie is coming together.”
Returning to FPC’s offensive line this year are seniors right tackle Zach Farrell, center Angel De Leon and left tackle Gavin Petty. Turner said the line is
probably one of the strengths of the team. The least experienced position on offense is wide receiver, but Turner said he saw the receivers step up during the scrimmage.
“They (offensive line) played really well,” Turner said. “They allowed a lot of holes to open up. They protected the quarterback well and did a lot of things well. We’ve still got to continue to strive to get better which we will,
but that’s what practice is for.” Turner said he appreciated the opportunity of being invited to the officials clinic which put his team in a game situation one week ahead of the kickoff classic hosted by Palatka. The Bulldogs will face the Panthers and Jacksonville Terry Parker on Aug. 15.
Klein said the Sandcrabs’ strength has always been their defense. This year, senior defenders Edinson Parra and Zebidiah Martin along with junior Matthew Wells are leading the way with a talented group of underclassmen, Klein said.
Wells has been playing football for eight years and for the Sandcrabs since his freshman year. He is currently playing tight end and defensive end.
“I think this year our defense is so much more established as a unit,” Wells said. “We all know what we’re doing. All of us already know our assignments from last year, so we’re just building on top of that. Our defense was carrying our team last year. ... Now we have (Matt) Dickmann who is a great (offensive coordinator). His offense is fantastic. I’m having a great time.”
Klein said Dickmann has done a great job identifying what the players can do well and where they fit on offense.
“In season, typically you’re going to gameplan for what the other team’s doing. For us this week, we didn’t gameplan. ... It was more just like, follow your base rules and what your assignments are on both sides of the ball.”
MIKE KLEIN, Seabreeze head football coach
“He’s done a great job,” Klein said. “I thought our O-line tonight looked pretty solid. They looked like they really knew what they were doing and they got after a little bit up front. I was really happy about that.”
Dickmann has been coaching for 38 seasons. He was head coach at Harrison High School in Kennesaw, Georgia, where he led the Hoyas to a 6A state championship in 2019. During three seasons at Harrison, he coached NFL quarterback Justin Fields. Following the scrimmage, Dickmann told the players he was excited to watch the offensive line execute tactics rehearsed in practice.
“… Pass protection was excellent,” he said. “You just have to connect on a couple of those big routes down there. We’ll be OK … I really like what I saw. A lot of good things happened, but we have to stay healthy. Great job.”
Turner said Seabreeze was a very disciplined team and probably more disciplined than FPC in some areas. For his team, he said he will continue building a culture of consistency.
“I’ve got a saying — consistency wins,” he said. “That’s in everything we do. I have to not just be able to win one rep or do what I’m supposed to one time in a football game. We average 65 plays a game, therefore, in all 22 positions on the field, we cannot just do it one time, we need to do it consistently 65 times in a row. It all comes down to ... consistency wins.”
THE RUNNING FOR YOUTH ATHLETE COMPETITION
in his first team competition. Noah has been entered into the Youth Athlete of the Year competition and came in 17th place through the first round, qualifying him for the second round. To advance to the third round, he needs to finish among the top 15.
Voters may vote once daily for free or anytime with a donation vote that supports the V Foundation For Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation. For more info go to athleteoftheyear.org
High School fall sports seasons begin next week, but the Matanzas cross country teams will get a jump on the season with their end-of-thesummer Preseason Pirate Relays at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16. There will be two-person, three-person and mixed-gender 5K relay events. Seven schools are expected to compete.
The cross country season begins in earnest with the 14th annual Spikes and Spurs Classic hosted by Flagler Palm Coast on Aug. 23 at the
Flagler County Fairgrounds. The first race is scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. with the girls race following. Officially, fall sports start on Monday, Aug. 18, when Matanzas hosts Spruce Creek in bowling at 3:30 p.m. at Palm Coast Lanes. Seabreeze hosts Mainland on Aug. 20 at Ormond Lanes.
In volleyball, Seabreeze will open at home against Atlantic at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 19. FPC and Mainland both open at home on Aug. 20 against Father Lopez and Deltona, respectively. Both matches start at 6:30 p.m.
Mainland and Seabreeze boys golf teams meet at Daytona Golf Club on Aug. 19. The girls teams will face off at Riviera on Aug. 20. Matanzas boys golf hosts Menendez and St. Augustine on Aug. 21. FPC’s girls golf team hosts DeLand on Aug. 21.
The FPC girls soccer team participated in 35 team activities over the summer, including beach workouts, bridge runs, indoor
soccer, track work, 7v7 league competition and daily weight-room training. After-school workouts began Aug. 12. Team tryouts are scheduled in the second week of October with the first home game schedule for Nov. 4.
The Palm Coast Sky Bound team won the gold medal in the High
National Championship on Aug. 1-3 at the Austin-Tindall
Complex in Kissimmee. The team’s six players include Matanzas High School soccer players Rebeka Cordero, Isabella Hopkins, Emma Skinner and Naomi Cordero (2025 graduate), FPC soccer player Eva Sites and St. Augustine St. Joseph soccer player Hayleah Bagnato.
Noah Quintero, 10, a fifth grader at Pathways Elementary School, began inline speed skating at Astro Skate in Ormond Beach in October 2024. Two months later, he placed fourth C O O L N G 9 We can help solve
The Pirates looked good on both sides of the ball in the blue and white scrimmage, coach Matt Forrest said.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Football coaches want to see their teams dominate during the season, but not during an intrasquad scrimmage.
Matanzas coach Matt Forrest was
encouraged because he saw positive signs on both sides of the ball during the Pirates’ blue and white scrimmage on Friday, Aug. 8.
“(In a scrimmage), if your offense is that much more dominant over your defense, or vice versa, I think it can make you kind of go to extremes and think that one may be severely better than the other, and then, what do we got to do to get them to up the bar?
Matanzas hosts Jacksonville Episcopal in a kickoff classic at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15. The Pirates open the season a week later, Aug. 22, when
they host county rival Flagler Palm Coast in the annual Potato Bowl game.
The scrimmage gave the Pirates’ coaches an indication of what they need to work on as the opener inches closer.
The offense put some drives together, and the defense forced some turnovers. The defense bent but didn’t break inside the red zone. The offense moved the ball but struggled to get into the end zone once it got inside the 20-yard line.
“When you leave fall camp after 10 practices against each other, I think it’s good to have the ebbs and flows in a scrimmage,” Forrest said. “Our offense made some plays, our defense made some plays and I thought it was a good spirited contest. I wouldn’t say one outperformed the other. When you see that, it does give you some confidence about your team going into the kickoff classic, because then, once we get to play a full game against somebody else, I think you’re going to really know where your team’s at.”
Forrest praised linebackers Nick Yacano and Chase Johnson, cornerback Jayden McCoy and defensive lineman Omar Steward among others on defense.
Offensively, Forrest said the line
played well and running back Wiley Conner had a good night running the football.
“I think our quarterbacks, Cole Walker and Cole Hardy, did some good things throwing the football.
And (receivers) Jordan Schendorf, Ladarien Baker and Thomas Larywon had a good scrimmage,” Forrest said.
“We just have to clean up the minor details,” he added. “That’s the stuff that gets exposed in the game. Overall, we feel like we have a pretty good football team. When they’re competing against each other and really going back and forth, I think that bodes well for our season.”
Both head coaches and Flagler Schools
Superintendent LaShakia Moore spoke during the service on Aug. 10.
Pastor Kevin James wore his Miami Dolphins jersey, and many congregants wore jerseys of their own favorite football teams. Flagler
Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore wore a custom-made jersey with Flagler printed on the front and logos for the Matanzas Pirates and Flagler Palm Coast Bulldogs on each shoulder. It was Football Sunday at Palm
Coast United Methodist Church. The church honored the high school football teams for both Matanzas and FPC on Sunday, Aug. 10, at the 10:30 a.m. service.
Moore and head football coaches Matt Forrest of Matanzas and Patrick Turner of FPC spoke. School Board member Derek Barrs delivered a prayer for the students, the teachers and the community with
students returning to school the following day. And a player from each team — Ehimen “Heman” Adjede of FPC and Javonte Patton of Matanzas — recited a scripture reading. Forrest read the Daily Message from his phone: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” He had not reviewed the message in advance. Turner pointed out that in Philippians 3:2, the Apostle Paul warns to
“watch out for those dogs,” and joked that the Pirates weren’t left out when the verse also mentioned “evildoers.” During the final praise song, singers tossed footballs to each team. After the service, players, coaches, students, administrators and School Board members posed for group photos.
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Help Wanted
CNA/HHA Wanted Join our compassionate team at Good Samaritan Care Center ALF! Now hiring for a CNA or HHA. Willing to train dedicated professionals. Call 386-793-6307 to learn more.
Housekeeping
Ana’s Personal housekeeping. One Time, Weekly, Or Monthly Service (PC) anaspersonalhousekeeping@gmail.com386868-9662
Real Estate
Beach Living Single Wide Mobile Home 1B/1B 780 Sq Ft with Separate Storage Room. Completely Rebuilt inside and Out. $125,000 629-200-8010
Yard Sale
Cabinet shop closing Friday August 22, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Saturday August 23, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Rain or Shine 2 Market Place Owner retiring. Everything for sale shop and showroom to include displays, bits, saws, materials, all tools. Open house 8/22/25 & 8/23/25, 9:00AM - 4:00PM, or call 386-445-9627 to set up an appointment to come in & browse.
INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723 • info@observerlocalnews. com • classifieds.palmcoastobserver.com
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*It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Palm Coast Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance
CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF JESUS D. GARCIA, DECEASED. et. al. Defendant(s), TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF JESUS D. GARCIA, DECEASED, whose residence is unknown if he/she/they be living; and if he/she/they be dead, the unknown defendants who may be spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against the Defendants, who are not known to be dead or alive, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 47, LAKE ELLABELLE EXTENSION #1, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 23, PAGE 234, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 on or before SEP 4 2025 /(30 days from Date of First Publication of this Notice) and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition filed herein. THIS NOTICE SHALL BE PUBLISHED ONCE A WEEK FOR TWO (2) CONSECUTIVE WEEKS. WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court at Volusia County, Florida, this 5th day of Aug, 2025. LAURA E. ROTH CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) BY: /s/ Shawnee S. Smith DEPUTY CLERK ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, AND SCHNEID, PL ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton,
PARTIES CLAIMING
THROUGH,
OF FERN J. HAMILTON A/K/A FERN JEANNIE HAMILTON F/K/A FERN J. WILSON, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, CREDITORS, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MELISSA HAMILTON A/K/A
MELISSA LEIGH HAMILTON, DECEASED; THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA; BRITTANY SUE KEARNS F/K/A BRITTANY SUE IDLE F/K/A BRITTANY S. IDLE; JADE CREW LLC; COREY EUGENE IDLE; THE BANK OF NEW YORK
MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWHEQ, INC., CWHEQ REVOLVING HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-H; DEREK LEE IDLE; SUSAN JEAN NELSON A/K/A SUSAN J. NELSON A/K/A SUSAN NELSON A/K/A SUSAN
JEAN COY A/K/A SUSAN COY F/K/A
SUSAN JEAN CINTRA F/K/A SUSAN CINTRA; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 1; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 2; and ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING INTERESTS BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST A NAMED DEFENDANT TO THIS ACTION, OR HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED, Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Summary Final Judgment of foreclosure dated July 10, 2025, and entered in Case No. 2023 10012 CIDL of the Circuit Court in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is Plaintiff and THE UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, CREDITORS, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF FERN J. HAMILTON A/K/A FERN JEANNIE HAMILTON F/K/A FERN J. WILSON, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, CREDITORS, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MELISSA HAMILTON A/K/A MELISSA LEIGH HAMILTON, DECEASED; THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA; BRITTANY SUE KEARNS F/K/A BRITTANY SUE IDLE F/K/A BRITTANY S. IDLE; JADE CREW LLC; COREY EUGENE IDLE; THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWHEQ, INC., CWHEQ REVOLVING HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-H; DEREK LEE
IDLE; SUSAN JEAN NELSON A/K/A SUSAN J. NELSON A/K/A SUSAN NELSON A/K/A SUSAN JEAN COY A/K/A SUSAN COY F/K/A SUSAN JEAN CINTRA F/K/A SUSAN CINTRA; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 1; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 2; and ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING INTERESTS
ROTH, Clerk of the Circuit Court, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash www.volusia.realforeclose.com, 11:00 a.m., on October 9, 2025 , the following described property as set forth in said Order or Final Judgment, to-wit: LOTS 10480 AND 10481, BLOCK 335, FLORIDA SHORES NO. 12, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 19, PAGE 213, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA 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
