The Hammock Observer 1-29-26

What’s planned for The Hammock?

Despite property tax uncertainties, Flagler County plans

Will county challenge Veranda Bay?

Flagler Beach awaits decision on lawsuit as it moves forward with annexation.

Yes Coffee to add Hammock drive-thru

‘It’s a challenge we’re excited about,’ co-owner Rachel McDermott said.

‘It’s a new endeavor.’

SIERRA WILLIAMS

Mike and Rachel McDermott are expanding their Yes Coffee shop into The Hammock at a new drivethru-only location. It will be the only drive-thru restaurant in The Hammock.

“It’s a challenge we’re excited about,” Rachel McDermott said.

“It’s a new endeavor.”

Feeding hungry kids in Flagler.

The McDermotts are retrofitting the drive-thru of the old SunTrust bank building, at 5399 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., next to the Publix. Aside from the drive-thru, the remainder of the building has been converted into a co-working rental space called Desk.Space.

The McDermotts pulled the trigger on their expansion a few months back, and now it’s just a matter of purchasing the right equipment. They expect to open their doors in the first quarter of 2026, hopefully by March.

Rachel McDermott said they are excited to be joining The Hammock business community.

“We were just hoping to come and complement everything,” she said.

Running a drive-thru only coffee shop is “completely opposite” to everything the McDermotts have done so far, she said. And, Mike McDermott said, the tight space is a challenge.

“We have to be very efficient with how we operate,” he said. “Ultimately, it’s going to be on the baristas about being fast and efficient, doing things right the first time.”

To maximize the tight space, the staff will have to focus on streamlining the process over aesthetics.

The quality will still be the same, Rachel McDermott said.

The small space will mean a paired-down menu, Mike McDermott said, with both food and drink items. But nothing that would take

more than two to three minutes to prepare. The majority of the house syrups will go to the new location as well, and drinks will primarily be espresso-based drinks.

“Our goal is to have the top selling items,” Rachel McDermott said.

A niche menu is nothing new to the McDermotts. The couple have a policy, Mike McDermott said, to only add things to their menu that are good products for their customers. That’s why it took them almost two years to add breakfast

sandwiches to their menu.

“We’re not going to serve a subpar product to people just to say we have a sandwich,” he said.

Though they only recently added food to the menu at their Flagler Beach space — located at 213 S. Second St. — some of the food options will follow to The Hammock location, including sausage egg and cheese breakfast sandwiches, egg bites and bagels.

Seeing the brand grow and stretch is Rachel McDermott’s

favorite part about the expansion, as well as filling a need in The Hammock by being a drive-thru coffee shop.

Mike McDermott sees the opportunity as a way to continue educating people about what good coffee is. Coffee has become upgraded where the quality of the bean, the roast and the grind matter.

“We’re helping people retrain their palates for what good coffee is supposed to taste like,” he said.

FCSO buys helicopter with help from Dan Newlin

Newlin donated $720,000 toward the purchase of the $1.42 million helicopter.

OBSERVER STAFF

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has a new helicopter, purchased in a public-private partnership with Attorney Dan Newlin.

Newlin, not his business, donated $720,000 to the FCSO for the purchase of a $1.42 million helicopter.

Sheriff Rick Staly said taxpayers paid $575,000 and money seized from drug dealers contributed another $125,000 to the purchase.

“It’s just a great deal all the way around to serve this community and fill in some gaps that FireFlight could not do,” Staly said on WNZF’s “Free For All Friday” show.

In a press release announcing the purchase, Staly said he had tried to work with the Flagler County Fire Rescue to increase the availability of medevac and law enforcement

COPS CORNER

JAN. 14 GRAND THEFT AUTO

5:09 p.m. — 1000 Tomoka Farms Road, Daytona Beach Grand theft. A Palm Coast

18-year-old was arrested after he was caught attempting to steal a cop car and BMWs from a dealership. Officers responded to a dealership mid-theft. As they spoke with employees, one detective saw the suspect enter an employee-only area and get into a BMW SUV,

with FireFlight, but “was not successful.” At Free For All Friday, he said the FCFR are great partners but that FireFlight shuts down after 8 p.m.

“So, if you need a medevac, it’s got to come out of St. Augustine or Jacksonville,” Staly said. Now, FCSO will be able to respond. Newlin also donated additional support equipment valued at $30,000. The helicopter will be stored at the East Flagler Mosquito Control District, the press release said.

“This donation is about giving back to the community and helping law enforcement do their jobs more effec -

according to an arrest report. When it wouldn’t start, he exited the car and, ignoring the detective’s orders to stop, climbed into the detective’s car and attempted to steal it. The suspect was tased and taken into custody. Employees told police he came into the dealership to buy multiple cars, despite not having any money or credit.

JAN. 22

URBEX ARREST 9:49 a.m. — 700 block of South Atlantic Avenue, Ormond Beach Resisting officer without violence. Police arrested a 20-year-old man from New

tively,” Newlin said. “When I learned about the Sheriff’s Office’s need for a helicopter, I knew it was an opportunity to make a real difference. This aircraft will help save lives, protect families, and keep Flagler County safe for years to come.”

Once the helicopter — a 2018 Bell 505, also known as the Jet Ranger X — is operational, it will have a state-ofthe-art infrared camera system, night-sun spotlight and medevac capabilities.

The aircraft has approximately 535 flight hours and is being retrofitted for public safety missions.

Jersey who was found inside a condemned hotel.

Police report that an officer noticed a broken window on the hotel’s property and he and his partner decided to investigate. Upon spotting the man, they tried to confront him, but he took off, disregarding police’s commands to stop. The man was eventually apprehended at a nearby hotel — one still in business. He told police that he had been exploring the condemned hotel when he saw officers and ran away to evade them.

JAN. 25

BUZZED DRIVING 4:22 p.m. — Highway U.S. 1,

In addition to emergency trauma flights, the helicopter will support deputies on missions such as search and rescue, tracking fleeing suspects and maritime searches.

Victims flown out with the FCSO helicopter will not receive a bill like they would with the FCFR’s FireFlight.

That is because, Staly said on Free For All, their helicopter won’t have a full basic life support system on board; it will be retrofitted with medevac capability, and they are working with the FCFR to do so, he said.

Deputies will not be making medevac calls. Paramedics on scene will make the decision if a medevac is necessary.

Staly dedicated the medevac capability to Jane GentileYoud, a former County Commission candidate who died on Jan. 15. Gentile-Youd, was a fervent proponent of Flagler County having 24-hour medevac capability.

“It is truly sad that Jane passed before she could see her vision become a reality,” Staly said in the press release.

Flagler County DUI. A Hastings motorcyclist was arrested on a DUI charge after he ignored a traffic stop and told deputies, “You got me, I have a little buzz.”

According to a 911 call, the motorcyclist had crashed on U.S. 1, but immediately stood up, picked up the motorcycle and drove off. Deputies attempted to pull him over, but the motorcyclist drove on for two miles, according to an arrest report.

After he eventually pulled over, deputies confronted him. They immediately could smell alcohol on the suspect’s breath. He was taken to jail.

NEWS BRIEFS

Palm Coast man jailed in power tools theft

A Palm Coast man was arrested on Jan. 21 after he allegedly stole from multiple home improvement stores in Flagler County.

Williams Biddle, 34, of Palm Coast, was arrested by the Daytona Beach Police Department in coordination with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. Biddle was captured on security footage stealing hundreds of dollars in power tools on multiple occasions, a FCSO press release said.

Biddle sold the tools, and, in an interview with FCSO detectives, he said it was because he needed the money.

Ex-Flagler home health aide stole

$2.7K from client

A former home health aide was arrested, for the second time, for stealing from a senior citizen under her care, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

Katie Swain, 32, of Pomona Park in Putnam County, was previously employed at HarborChase Assisted Living in Palm Coast. In early December, HarborChase notified the FCSO that a senior at the facility had noticed multiple fraudulent charges on their bank card.

In early January, HarborChase reported a second victim to the FCSO, who said their card went missing while Swain was employed as their home health aide, a press release said. Both incidents were traced back to Swain.

In the most recent case, Swain made 27 unauthorized purchases on the victim’s bank card, totaling $2,700 in fraudulent transactions.

Deputies arrest

Ormond man after barricaded standoff

Volusia Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a 30-yearold Ormond Beach man on Thursday, Jan. 22, after he barricaded himself inside his home following reports he caused an armed disturbance in his neighborhood.

VSO deputies responded to the Pinewood Estates manufactured home community on Hand Avenue after receiving a call that a man, identified as Preston Meier, had been walking in the neighborhood road with a gun while yelling at another neighbor.

Once at the scene, Meier was seen in the doorway of his home, with no weapons, placing a traffic barricade in the doorway to his home, according to his arrest report. Deputies tried to de-escalate the situation, the report states, but were unsuccessful; the man exited and entered his home a few times during this, always unarmed. He was eventually detained and charged with false imprisonment (as his girlfriend had been inside the home) and resisting an officer without violence. He was taken to jail.

Flagler Beach Fire rescues family off stranded sailboat

The Flagler Beach Fire Department made a rare marine rescue in the early morning hours of Jan. 24 after a sailboat became stranded 50 yards from shore. The sailboat had capsized after it had run aground on a sandbar near the shore, according to a Flagler Beach Fire Department press release. The FBPD and the Flagler County Fire Rescue responded to the scene and a FBPD rescuer swam out the 50 yards to the sailboat. Two adults and one child were rescued from the boat, without injuries.

AND THE WINNERS ARE ...

Michelle Moore is Flagler Schools Teacher of the Year. Calvin Grant named Employee of the Year.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Belle Terre Elementary School ESE teacher

Michelle Moore had two words to describe her reaction when she was named 2025-26 Flagler Schools Teacher of the Year: “Complete shock!” Moore and Flagler Palm Coast High School Campus Security Officer Calvin Grant were named the school district’s Teacher and Employee of the Year, respectively, at the end of the district’s annual awards gala Monday, Jan. 26, at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center.

“I’m just overwhelmed. I’m speechless,” Moore said after her name was announced and she was celebrated on stage.

“I owe this honor to the whole team that I work with because I couldn’t do it without them.”

Moore teaches kindergarten and first grade in the school’s autism unit. She said she is “looking forward to all the great things that are to come,” including the professional development that the state

AWARD WINNERS

TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

„ Belle Terre Elementary: Michelle Moore

„ Buddy Taylor Middle: Kathy Fisch

„ Bunnell Elementary: Hayley

Marino

„ Flagler Palm Coast High: Alex

Giorgianni

„ Flagler Technical College: Adrienne Harvey

„ iFlagler: Durand Brown

„ Indian Trails Middle: Shannon

Russell

„ Matanzas High: Erin Davis

„ Old Kings Elementary: Tressa

Landi

„ Rymfire Elementary: Hayley

Gurley

„ Student Services: Michelle Yorio

„ Wadsworth Elementary: Emily Creel

EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR

„ Belle Terre Elementary: Ashley

Ramirez

„ Buddy Taylor Middle: Jeri

Thayer

„ Bunnell Elementary: Kathy

McCoy

„ Custodial Services: Tatiana

Rodriguez

„ Food Services: Lance Lee

„ Flagler Palm Coast High: Calvin

Grant

„ Flagler Technical College: Skyla

Adao

„ Human Resources: Heather

provides each of the districts’ teachers of the year.

“I’ll be able to do just to keep learning and growing to do my job better,” she said.

Grant is in his 26th year with FPC. He had retired as a Flagler County Sheriff’s Office school resource deputy and then was brought back to lead the school’s security team.

“We’re the eyes and ears on the ground,” he said. “We’re pretty much the first responders. We’ll see it before the school resource deputies see it. The relationship that my team has with the students encourages me to be a better person every day. I just love what I do.”

Grant is also an FPC graduate. He was a member of the school’s second graduating class in 1977.

The Flagler County Teacher/Employee of Year gala is a high-energy affair. School administrators, mascots and cheer teams form a procession accompanying their teachers, employees and rookie teachers of the year to the stage as music blares from the speakers and the announcer screams the school and individual’s name. This year’s theme, was “Legacy by the Sea.”

The district also honored Principal of the Year Bobby Bossardet, from FPC, and Assistant Principal of the Year Abra Seay, from Rymfire

Morin

„ iFlagler: Taahira Lee

„ Indian Trails Middle: Claudia

Karsten

„ Matanzas High: Paula Teixeira

„ Old Kings Elementary: Mary

Jansen

„ Plant Services: Tami Chinn

„ Rymfire Elementary: Nicole

Castello

„ Technology: Mike Pane

„ Transportation: Tammy Jones

„ Wadsworth Elementary: Abby Perez

ROOKIE TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

„ Belle Terre Elementary: Alyssa

Langan

„ Buddy Taylor Middle: Shanyia

Mobley

„ Bunnell Elementary: Amanda

Gemmola

„ Flagler Palm Coast High: Madison Mead

„ iFlagler: Julia Williamson

„ Indian Trails Middle: Zhariah

Haire

„ Matanzas High: Dr. Syed Hamid

Mohammed

„ Old Kings Elementary: Mackenzie Fulling

„ Rymfire Elementary: Michelle

Lique

„ Wadsworth Elementary: Kendall

Mulligan

(Rookie Teacher of the Year is not a designated state award)

Elementary.

Last year’s Teacher of the Year Brandy Anderson, from Indian Trails Middle School, and Employee of the Year Brande Martz, of Wadsworth Elementary, also spoke. Anderson was one of five finalists to be Florida’s Teacher of the Year.

Seay said she almost didn’t make it to the gala because her daughter gave birth to her and her husband Mark’s sixth grandchild at 5:33 p.m.

“I can’t wait to go hold her, but good evening,” she said.

Seay congratulated all of the Teacher, Employee and Rookie Teacher of the Year winners.

“Assistant Principal of the Year for Flagler Schools is an incredible honor and I’m deeply grateful,” Seay said.

“But I don’t see this recognition as something I have earned alone. I see it as a reflection of the relationships, trust and shared work that happens in our schools every day. This honor is not about me. It’s about us because leadership has never been about one person. It has always been about the people willing to show up together

every single day for our kids.” Bossardet began his remarks by acknowledging the room.

“This isn’t just an award ceremony,” he said. “This is a room filled with game changers: Teachers, support staff leaders, rookies and veterans, families and students including all the FPC students here tonight, celebrating and honoring their incredible

staffaulty, who make their school extraordinary.

“Tonight, isn’t about about a single name being called.

It isn’t just about a plaque, a ring or a title,” Bossardet said.

“Tonight is about all of us. Every nominee, every educator and every person whose impact may never make a headline but changes lives anyway.”

CITY WATCH

Parks & Rec lines up family-focused programs

Palm Coast Parks & Recreation Department is kicking off 2026 with youthand family-focused programs at the Palm Coast Community Center. Below are some of the available programs:

„ IRL Skills: Financial literacy, kitchen safety, self-care, and personal responsibility, discovering new hobbies. Mondays from Jan. 19 through Feb. 9, from 4:30 to 6 p.m., for students in grades 6–8. The fee is $50.

„ Robotics for Kids: Fundamentals of robotics and engineering using LEGO Education SPIKE Essentials. Mondays from Feb. 16 through March 9, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., for ages 7–11. The fee is $45.

„ Kids in the Kitchen: Wednesdays from Feb. 11 through March 4, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m., for ages 8–12. The fee is $40.

„ The Enrichment Block for Homeschoolers: Art, cooking, physical recreation, and STEM activities with LEGO Education Robotics. Mondays from Feb. 2 through Feb. 23, from noon to 3:00 p.m., for grades Kindergarten through third. The fee is $50.

Committee reviews Palm Coast’s borrowing limits

Every decade, the charter is reevaluated. Changes to be proposed on Feb. 17.

The Palm Coast Charter Review Committee will not be recommending specific changes to the city’s borrowing powers.

Instead, the committee will recommend the Palm Coast City Council conduct a study to find out what would be the best limits on the city’s borrowing power. Changing the limitations themselves would be changing policy, committee member Perry Mitrano said.

“That’s a policy change, and that’s not what I think we’re supposed to be doing on this,” Mitrano said.

“They’re the ones that have to put that number in there.”

The committee has been working to review all of the Palm Coast City Charter, which is required to be updated once every 10 years. Since last fall, it has been reviewing the charter in detail, making a variety of changes, from minor clarifying changes to substantial changes.

The committee did not finalize its decision on the council’s contracting authority until its last meeting on Jan. 26.

The Palm Coast Charter Article VI, section (3)(e), outlines limitations to the council’s contracting authority.

It states: “Unless authorized by the electors of the City at a duly held referendum election, the Council shall not enter into lease purchase contracts or any other unfunded

Palm Coast Expo to feature unveiling of new city mobile app

Palm Coast’s Connecting to Palm Coast Expo will be held on Feb. 12, and, during the event, the city will unveil its new mobile app.

The new City of Palm Coast mobile app is available for download in both the Apple App Store and Google Play, a Palm Coast press release said. Palm Coast Information Technology team will be onsite

multiyear contracts, the repayment of which: extends in excess of 36 months; or exceeds $15,000,000.00.”

The limitations were the topic of hot debate in the November 2024 election, when the city placed removing the section entirely on the ballot. Palm Coast residents voted against removing the restrictions.

“I think that the public opinion has been clearly stated that people want to leave this as it is,” committee member Mike Martin said.

The Charter Review Committee opted to leave the section alone almost entirely, except to add language that clarifies the debt would be repaid from the general fund.

Removing the ordinance was off the table, as all five board members agreed the public clearly showed they wanted the limitations. But the question remained: Should the amount loaned or the length of the term be changed?

Ultimately, the committee said, it isn’t their place to decide on the numbers.

“That’s the council’s direction,” Mitrano said. “They need to both dig into that number.”

Many of the board’s substantive changes reflected issues that controlled the dais for over a year, including filling council vacancies when so close to an election, censuring elected members or asking the governor to remove an elected member and specifying noninterference with staff by council members.

The compensation for council members also had proposed chang-

throughout the evening to help attendees download the app, answer questions, and demonstrate its features.

The new app gives residents a convenient way to stay connected to city services, news, events and important updates.

The Expo, organized by the Palm Coast Citizens Academy Alumni Ambassadors, will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 12 at the Palm Coast Community Center at 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE. The event is

es: The committee is recommending that salary increases be at the same CPI rate as employees, and have proposed removing the health and retirement benefits council members can receive.

Here is the committee’s top five ranked changes, from the most important:

„ Filling of vacancies.

„ Changes to the council member compensation.

„ Qualifying fees and petitions for council and mayoral candidates.

„ Updating the required qualifications and evaluation process for the city manager and city attorney positions.

„ Clarifying repayment of borrowed funds from would be from the general fund, and recommending the council conduct a study to update the borrowing limit of $15 million and repayment time frame.

Other changes include clarifying noninterference policy with city staff by council members and the mayor, adopting a preamble and limiting elected officials to two total terms, but allowing a former mayor to run for City Council and vice versa.

The Palm Coast City Council will review the changes, and what is approved by the council will need to be approved by voters in a referendum in the Nov. 3 general election.

A summary of the changes will be placed on the ballot.

“It’s always up to the voter to do their own research,” said Georgette Dumont. Dumont has been moderating the charter review process

free for all to attend.

The Connecting to Palm Coast Expo will also have a wide range of services and resources to help new and recently settled residents. Attendees can sign up for Homestead Exemption, register to vote, request vote-by-mail ballots, receive an eye exam, get a diabetes screening, and more, the press release said.

“That’s a policy change and that’s not what I think we’re supposed to be doing on this. They’re [the City Council] the ones that have to put that number in there.”

PERRY MITRANO, on why the Palm Coast Charter Review Committee is asking for a study, rather than making a recommendation on the city’s borrowing limits

and will compile the changes for the council to review.

Dumont is tentatively scheduled to present the proposed changes to the Palm Coast City Council on Feb. 17.

The council can choose to accept the proposed changes as is, reject them all, or make changes to the proposals.

City departments, civic organizations, government agencies, and social services will be available to share information, answer questions, and help residents get involved in the community. All vendor spaces for the February expo are currently full, but another Connecting to Palm Coast Expo is planned for Sept. 17. Vendor participation is limited to nonprofit organizations, social services, civic groups, and government agencies. Potential vendors may email pclion.nina@gmail.com for more information.

Expectations raised for HR chief job

Flagler School Board votes to add a posthire certification to HR chief’s job description in 3-1 vote.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

After a spirited discussion concerning the job description of Flagler Schools’ next Chief Human Resources Officer, the School Board agreed to add a post-hire requirement that if the selected candidate does not have an HR certification, then they must attain one during a time frame as selected by Superintendent LaShakia Moore and her senior staff.

Lauren Ramirez’s motion to change the job description as proposed by district staff, passed 3-1, with Will Furry voting against at the Board’s Jan. 27 meeting.

The district’s current HR chief, Bob Ouellette, is retiring at the end of the school year. During a Jan. 13 workshop, HR Supervisor Joshua Walker said the job description’s intent is to “cast a wide net” that would then be narrowed as applications come in.The job’s list of qualifications include certification in administration and supervision, educational leadership, human resource management or other leadership certification. Janie Ruddy requested that a specific HR certification, such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) qualification, be added.

But when the job description came before the board for a vote on Jan. 27, no change was made.

Ruddy had the item moved from the consent agenda to

action in order to discuss. There were no other action items on the board’s agenda.

“I understand that in our city of Palm Coast, we may think our applicant pool might be limited,” Ruddy said. “But in today’s world, people move for careers. This level of seniority with the Chief Human Resources Officer role would attract folks who would be eager to live in our wonderful community. And as such, I would want to ensure that this role lists the qualifications that are essential to help us navigate our challenges that we have moving forward.”

Ruddy added the job description could give a selected candidate six months to attain the certification.

Moore said a year would be a more reasonable time frame to attain a SHRM certification.

Furry made a motion to leave the job description as is. The other listed qualifications are a master’s degree and a minimum of five years experience as an administrator or supervisor (preferred).

“I trust the district’s discernment,” Furry said. “They’ve done an excellent job hiring excellent talent. I lean on that track record. We have to approve these (hires) as well. There are plenty of safeguards here if we feel the person is unqualified.”

Furry also questioned why Ruddy sought a change at the board meeting, and not the workshop, saying, “This is why we invest time in workshops. I like these things to be done in workshops not on

the dais,” although Ruddy did bring up her concerns at the Jan. 13 agenda workshop.

Ouellette said a key piece to the puzzle is that chief HR officers make substantially more at other districts in the state.

“Talent concentrates around monetary compensation, sometimes,” he said.

Ramirez said a certification would be a low-cost safeguard for this role.

“I do think that having some kind of credential is a good idea, not necessarily prior, but if you’re a great fit, you will be an even better fit if you have this certification within the time period the district feels is right,” she said.

Moore said she is not opposed to adding a professional certification or its equivalent after hire within a reasonable time frame.

“Education now isn’t about the certification you come in with, but the professional learning you continue to engage in,” she said. “We are most valuable when we have opportunities for continuous improvement as times change.”

Furry’s motion to keep the job description as is failed on a 2-2 vote with Board Chair Christy Chong voting along with Furry. But Chong then changed her vote on Ramirez’s motion for a post-hire HR certification requirement.

“I see all the viewpoints,” Chong said. “And I trust the superintendent and the district staff that she will hire the right person.”

“I do think that having some kind of credential is a good idea, not necessarily prior, but if you’re a great fit, you will be an even better fit if you have this certification within the time period the district feels is right.”

LAUREN RAMIREZ

What’s planned for The Hammock?

Flagler County plans multiple improvement projects despite funding uncertainties.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

As Flagler County is beginning its budgeting process for the next fiscal year, multiple Capital Improvement Projects are planned for The Hammock.

But the county could see difficulty funding projects on its CIP list. Anticipated CIP projects between 2027 and 2031 are estimated to cost the county $2 million a year, according to a county presentation on Jan. 12, and unfunded CIP projects would, combined, need $77 million.

Beyond that, County Administrator Heidi Petito said, the county is also bracing for the state to potentially remove property tax revenue, which is the source of the majority of the county’s funding. If the state legislature approves the measure, that would then go to the voters to approve.

“These measures could remove more than $60 million from the county’s tax base and limit our ability to keep pace with service demands,” Petito said. “Any major reduction in property tax revenue would require difficult decisions about service levels, capital projects, long-term financial planning.”

County Commissioner Greg Hansen said in the meeting that something would need to replace property taxes if they go away.

“I worry that the voter is gonna say, ‘Oh, no more property tax,’ when we’re gonna replace it with something else,” Hansen said. “To

get enough money to run the county, we’re gonna have to.”

Until a decision is made by the state, Flagler County will move forward with its budgeting process for the 2027 fiscal year. Some CIP projects are already in the works in Flagler County, though others only have funding secured through the design phase or require local matches to qualify for a grant or state funding.

Here is a list of the projects in the work in The Hammock: „ Malacompra Canal Restoration and Resilience: The design is 30% completed, with a funded budget of $495,000. Design is estimated to be completed by July. Construction to improve the 4,100 feet of the canal is unfunded. The project includes widening the canal and replacing the box culvert. The project will be phased and is estimated to cost $12.4 million.

„ First Avenue Drainage Improvements: Design is 90% completed and will be finished by February. This project spans from Malacompra Road to the north end of First Avenue and will regrade the roadside to improve drainage. Design is fully funded, and $500,000 is budgeted for the construction phase.

„ Park parking and bathrooms: Both the River to Sea Preserve and Malacompra Park will have new restrooms built on site, as well as additional beach access parking, which will help the county meet beach renourishment funding requirements. The Malacompra Park will also include the installation of a disc golf course. The projects are funded with money from impact fees ($175,000) and the beachfront parks fund ($275,000), respectively.

„ Bing’s Landing Master Plan improvements: The plan is 75% complete, and is

just awaiting details on the new restaurant and the Malacompra Canal Expansion. Some $500,000 is budgeted for this from impact fees and boat vessel registrations. The county also received a grant that increased the budget to $952,000. Improvements include dredging, an archaeological component and passive recreation activities. „ Jungle Hut Road Resurfacing: The design phase will conclude in February. Construction funding is to be decided, but is anticipated to be funded 75% by the Florida Department of Transportation with a 25% local match. Other countywide projects include several road resurfacing projects on the west side, the continued design of Bulow Creek Headwaters Regional Park, two new fire stations that are under construction, the construction of the multipurpose emergency preparedness facility at the Flagler County Fairgrounds which is estimated to finish in June, the new Bull Creek restaurant, and more. The beach maintenance program also remains unfunded and, Petito said, to qualify for state funding, the county will need to provide a local match of 25%, per a state law.

Flagler Beach moves forward with Veranda Bay annexation

But, Flagler County is considering disputing the annexation of both Summertown as well as Veranda Bay.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A 234-acre development has been preliminarily approved to be annexed into Flagler Beach, despite concerns over a potential county lawsuit.

The Flagler Beach City Commission voted 4-1, with Commissioner John Cunningham against, to annex the Veranda Bay development at its Jan. 22 meeting. The development has been undergoing review by the city for annexation for two years and could shortly be facing a lawsuit from the Flagler County Commission.

Despite the county’s possible lawsuit against Flagler Beach over the Veranda Bay development, Flagler Beach commissioners felt it best to move forward with their vote and await more information instead of “kicking the can down the road.”

“It’s time for us to come to a resolution,” Commissioner Scott Spradley said.

The development, located on the east side of John Anderson Highway, will have a 150slip marina with retail, restaurants and fuel, surrounded by 157 condominium units. There will also be 98 residential homes built near the existing 122 residential homes.

The crux of the county’s concerns lies with the existing 122 residential homes that are along John Anderson Parkway, said assistant county attorney Sarah Spector.

Florida Statute 171.0144 requires the approval of existing residents before a property

is annexed. Attorney Michael Chiumento, representing the developer, argued that all 122 homes had a deed restriction built into the closing contracts that gives the landowner the right to annex without the individual signatures. By closing on the sales, they were also agreeing to that deed restriction, he said. Spector said the county feels differently, and said Florida’s attorney general made his opinion clear in a different lawsuit over a condominium annexation that individual signatures are needed.

“I understand that they have a declaration of covenants that says that the developer reserves the right to annex the property at any time,” Spector said. “Unfortunately, the statute doesn’t allow a declaration of covenants to step in.”

Flagler Beach City Attorney Drew Smith said if the property is annexed and goes to a lawsuit, the city will be litigating it. This is a novel issue, he said. “There is no court opinion.

The attorney general’s opinions are opinions; they are not precedent,” he said. “If it were to go to litigation with the county, it would be an issue of first impression for the court.”

This is not the first time the Veranda Bay development has faced a potential lawsuit.

The development was halted in late 2024 after threats of a lawsuit because of allegations that the then-899-acre development would create an enclave if it were annexed into Flagler Beach.

When the development returned to Flagler Beach for annexation, the developers had split it into two developments, Veranda Bay and Summertown, to avoid the enclave. Summertown was annexed on Jan. 9. Spector said in the Flagler Beach Commission meeting that the county’s other concerns regarding Veranda Bay were the same ones it had with Summertown — primarily related to utility and infrastructure.

The Flagler County Com-

second reading.”

“There’s a lot that needs to happen,” he said. “But I’m not interested in delaying the process to at least getting to a position that we can get these issues worked out.”

Without the threat of the lawsuit, the City Commissioners overall seemed inclined to approve the annexation, with several making statements that it would be better for Flagler Beach to have some say in the process than not.

“It’s going to be there whether we annex or not, and I think we ought to annex it,” said Vice Chair Rick Belhumeur.

mission will be holding a workshop followed by a special meeting on Jan. 28 to decide what legal action it wants to take regarding the Veranda Bay and Summertown developments.

Because the county meeting is ahead of the Flagler Beach Commission second reading of the Veranda Bay annexation — scheduled for Feb. 26 — it means the city will have a better grasp on the county’s intent before it makes its final decision.

If the county decides to head to a lawsuit, the Flagler Beach Commission can deny the annexation at the second reading.

No one on the Flagler Beach Commission was inclined to delay the votes any longer, as the project has been disputed and reviewed for two years. While Spradley said he wanted no part in a potential litigation, and there was more he wanted to address at the second reading, he felt better knowing any “vote on first reading is 100% reversible on

Belhumeur said when he first spoke to developer representative Ken Belshe about the projects, the developer was ready to “pull the trigger” and move to annex the project into Palm Coast.

Commissioner Eric Cooley said annexation has long been part of the city’s strategic plan as a way to protect the city from oncoming, neighboring developments.

“If we are servicing it anyways and it’s not ours, that’s just strictly a loss and that’s not protecting the city, the citizens, our interests or anything,” Cooley said.

Important dates

Jan. 28 The Flagler County Commission is having a workshop at 5 p.m. to decide whether or not it will file lawsuits against Flagler Beach over the Summertown and Veranda Bay decisions. Feb. 26 The Flagler Beach City Commission will meet to vote on the second reading of the Veranda Bay annexation.

Commemorative plate available honoring US’s 250th anniversary A commemorative plate celebrating the United States’ 250th Anniversary is now available at the Flagler County Tax Collector’s Office. The Florida plate was created by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to honor the upcoming semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a Tax Collector office press release said. The America’s 250th Anniversary license plate is available during vehicle registration, renewal, or as a replacement plate at all Flagler County Tax Collector offices.

Regular registration and license plate fees apply and additional fees may apply for replacement plates, the press release said.

“This commemorative plate provides a simple and meaningful way for residents to show their pride in our country while recognizing an important moment in American history,” said Shelly Edmonson, Flagler County Tax Collector. Residents may visit any Flagler County Tax Collector office or go online to flaglertax.gov to find office locations and additional information.

Best of Ormond’s Fire Department

Awards given at annual banquet.

OBSERVER STAFF

Ormond Beach Firefighter

Marc Pinkman was recognized as the Firefighter of the Year during the second annual Ormond Beach Fire Department Banquet at S.R. Perrott on Friday, Jan. 23.

The award, named after late firefighter Ethan Wilson, was presented by Wilson’s widow, Ashley, who said Pinkman is always looking to better himself as a firefighter.

“Hardworking and eager to learn, this firefighter is never afraid to ask questions, learns quickly, and consistently applies what he learns on the job,” Ashley Wilson said. “... He may be young, but his growth, work ethic, and dedication already reflect the core values of the Ormond Beach Fire Department.”

The banquet also recognized its Driver Engineer of the Year, Jamie Singer. The award was presented by Battalion Chief Travis Taft.

“His work ethic, character, humility, and professionalism speak for themselves,” Taft said.”

This year’s Captain of the Year was Battalion Chief Joe Dupree, who was promoted last August. The award was presented by Battalion Chief Matt Marteeny.

“Even after more than 20 years in the fire service and responding to some of the toughest calls this department has ever faced, his resilience and steady leadership flow through those who look up to him,” Marteeny said.

Marteeny also presented the award for Paramedic of the Year, to firefighter Braden Hansard. A newer medic, but many of the nominations for the award jokingly mentioned that OBFD hired a doctor instead of a firefighter. Hansard has served as a lead medic on serious calls and rode with a patient in an ambulance 20 times last year, the most of any of OBFD’s paramedics.

“Beyond patient care, we all know this paramedic is in love with the EMS profession,” Marteeny said. “He spends his personal time outside of shift continuing to learn. While on duty, he takes the time to teach the EMTs — explaining the ‘why’ behind medical decisions.”

The banquet also recognized crews who responded to extraordinary calls:

„ Capt. Garrett Fiske, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski and Firefighters RL Durham and Ben Loyd — The crew responded to a three-vehicle crash where occupants (including a mastiff dog).

„ Capt. Patrick Soard and Firefighters Evan Loveless and Nick Duh — The crew found a patient unresponsive on the floor. The firefighters initiated CPR and implemented advanced cardiac life support protocols successfully, and the patient was transported to the hospital. The patient was later able to walk out of the hospital.

„ Battalion Chief Jeremiah Ingraham, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski, and Firefighters Vann Meadows and Ben Loyd — The crew helped law enforcement when 17 malnourished dogs were found locked in a trailer. They helped rescue the dogs, including 10 newborn puppies.

„ Capt. Carrie Davis, Firefighter Evan Loveless and Firefighter Drake Goodman — While helping a patient in cardiac arrest, the crew also removed a foreign object in the patient’s airway.

„

Battalion Chief Joe Dupree, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski and Firefighter Duh

— The crew responded to a call involving two toddlers and an infant, who were unclothed and covered in blood. Dupree coordinated warm food for the family; the crew went with police to look for clothes. One firefighter provided physical therapy to the infant.

State scrutinizes Daytona spending

State legislators want the city to take action.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The City of Daytona Beach has a new concern on its plate: legislation that would prevent the city from requesting or receiving state funding.

Daytona Beach Government Relations Coordinator Michael Chambliss told the Daytona Beach City Commission at its Jan. 21 meeting that local state representatives Sen. Tom Leek and Rep. Chase Tramont have both filed legislation that would prohibit local governments from requesting funding from the state until excess building code funds have been spent. The bills would also prevent a local government from receiving state funds while it is the subject of a legislative committee audit.

Daytona Beach would be subject to both criteria.

“It’s a shot across our bow,” Chambliss said.

The bills are Senate Bill 1614, filed by Leek, and House Bill 1169, filed by Tramont. Leek filed his bill on Jan. 9 and as of Jan. 26 the bill has been introduced and referred to the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment and General Government.

In an interview with the Observer , Leek said the bill was written with the situation of Daytona Beach in mind, but it is broader than just one municipality. Some local governments end up collecting excess fees, but, he said, the law does not permit them to hoard that extra money.

Cities are required to either give back the money or spend it. Leek said it has been close to a decade since Daytona Beach has been told to spend

the excess funds in its Permits & Licensing Fund.

“Continuously, they’ve been brought up before the Legislature, the audit committee to say, ‘Hey, what are you going to do?’ And every year they promise to do something,” Leek said.

At the same time, he said, Daytona Beach came to Tallahassee this year to ask for funding on infrastructure projects. Leek asked why, when the city had this extra funding.

State law requires that funds for enforcing the state building code — like Daytona’s Permits & Licensing Fund — may only carry forward an excess balance of its average operating budget. For years, the Daytona Beach P&L Fund has had millions in excess.

His bill, he said, will permit the city to use the excess funding for critical needs related to stormwater management and mitigation.

“You should have to spend the money that you’ve got,” Leek said. “[This bill] would allow them to do that.”

Really, he said, what Daytona Beach needs to do is not charge excess fees.

Daytona Beach has more problems than the excess money in its P&L Fund. Daytona Beach was last in front of the Joint Legislative Auditing Committee in December 2025 after Sen. Tom Wright brought the city’s scandal over the use of its employee Purchasing Cards to the committee’s attention.

The scandal was uncovered in October, when city employees were accused of mishandling city funds, with little to no oversight. A portion of SB 1614 also prohibits municipalities from legislative funding for at least one year if they are the subject of an audit.

“If you’re persisting with the problem, you’re not eli -

gible,” Leek said.

There have also been other accusations of Daytona Beach city staff misusing funds, including releasing bonds for poorly constructed sidewalks in the Mosaic neighborhood and an audit over employees pocketing funding for lessons at the city’s golf center.

“The city of Daytona Beach is in trouble. They’re absolutely in trouble. They have absolutely mismanaged their money,” Leek said. “I’m glad they’ve woken up. They have finally realized the Legislature means business, and I hope they get it right.”

November 2025 was when Daytona was last admonished by JLAC for its excess permit fee money. The committee told the city to spend it or return it to developers or taxpayers. Despite telling the committee it would work on the issue, Leek said, at the next city meeting, the City Commission said Tallahassee “needs to mind its own business.”

“So, they’re not committed to it, right? They just want to do what they want to do,” Leek said.

That meeting was on Nov. 5, when Zone 2 Commissioner Ken Strickland said: “Tallahassee needs to mind their own business. And I know they’re not. They should be representing us, not trying to ridicule us, make us look bad, make accusations they have no proof of. And I am just absolutely disgusted with our representation up there.” Leek said cities are “creatures of the Legislature. They’re enacted by the Legislature, and every year we dissolve cities. I’m not threatening them with that. I want to be clear. But the Legislature has the ability to dissolve the city, so the idea that the city gets to do whatever it wants is false.”

The citizens have spoken: Volusia Forever means forever

MELISSA LAMMERS GUEST WRITER

In 2020, the citizens of Volusia County stepped up to protect local sources of clean drinking water and the land around our lagoon, springs, rivers and lakes that holds flood waters. They understood that we need wild places that are home to the delicate interconnected systems of soil, plants, insects, and animals whose survival is key to our own. They found value in the serenity of passive recreation in nature that everyone can enjoy. They wanted local farmers to be able to keep their land in agriculture rather than see it fall to development. Because more than three quarters (75.6%) of those who voted in the 2020 election recognized the vital importance of our natural and working lands to our current and future wellbeing, they agreed to protect those lands forever by reau-

thorizing our award-winning local land conservation program, Volusia Forever. But on Jan. 8th, the Volusia County Council listed taking the “forever” out of the program as one of their potential goals for 2026, and at the Feb. 17 County Council meeting, they will consider making additional changes that, if enacted, will turn the program into something very different from what we voted for.

Volusia County has a long, proud history of conservation, a value that is growing with each new generation. In 1986, we were the first county in the nation to vote to tax ourselves to buy environmentally important land and care for it in perpetuity. That was the Endangered Lands program. We did it again in 2000 when we voted for the first Volusia Forever to begin protecting important local areas like Long Leaf Pine Preserve, a biodiversity hot spot; the Volusia Conservation Corridor, part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor; and more. In 2020, we voted for a third time to continue the Volusia Forever mission. Throughout our 40-year conservation history, Volusia County Councils have supported Volusia Forever. Volusia Forever is funded by an ad valorem property

tax of up to 20 cents on every $1,000 of taxable property value. A home with a taxappraised value of $275,000 pays just $55 a year or about 15 cents a day. The program has built on prior conservation experience. We know what has made Volusia Forever successful and we are concerned to see some of those key features up for modification or elimination by our current County Council — things like the criteria that identify the land we seek to protect and, importantly, that allow us to partner with premier state programs like Florida Forever and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Since 2020, partners have provided $4 for every $1 we’ve invested. That is a tremendous return on our tax dollars. Another key aspect is the bonding authority. Recently, the County Council decided not to pursue the idea of bonds. We voted to allow Volusia Forever to issue up to $60 million in bonds over the 20-year life of the program. To not take advantage of this option is fiscally irresponsible. Currently there are properties in the pipeline whose total value exceeds the funds collected since 2020. Property values are rising faster than bond rates. If Volusia For-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Tragic hit-and-run ever present in my thoughts

Dear Editor:

If you haven’t heard or read, Brian McMillan, owner of the Palm Coast Observer and associated newspapers, is encouraging others to try and write 100 words per day. McMillan recently gave a presentation to the Flagler Chapter of the Military Association of America, of which I’m a member, and delivered that same inspiring message. Here are my 100 words for this day. I might go over by a little bit.

Ever present in my thoughts is the tragic hitand-run crash that killed Flagler County Deputy Administrator Jorge Salinas and his wife Nancy, the night of Oct. 4, 2025. It occurred on Interstate 4 in Volusia County as Jorge and Nancy were returning from a day at Disney. The crash, caused by an irresponsible coward driving a black Dodge Durango, also killed 54-year-old motorcyclist Joaqin Anthony Deno.

The Durango was located in Palm Coast in the parking lot of an apartment complex

off Seminole Woods Boulevard, not far from State Route 100. As a retired state police investigator myself, I trust and believe the Florida Highway Patrol is diligently, methodically, and painstakingly gathering and analyzing evidence that will bring an arrest and justice to the Salinas and Deno families. If you have any information that may help the Florida Highway Patrol, please call *347 or Crimeline at 1-800423-TIPS.

DAVID LYDON Bunnell

Credibility decides fate of hometown newspapers

Dear Editor:

I have appreciated the growth of the Palm Coast Observer since landing here in 2021. The physical size of this newspaper (broader sheets, more pages and sections) coupled with a larger writing staff have been reflective of the tremendous growth of the city these past five years.

When one considers print media has been in a death spiral for the past two

decades, one should stop and consider why the Observer is an anomaly. Our hometown paper’s focus is almost exclusively local coverage and tends to shy away from shared news content so prevalent of other corporateowned newspapers (such as Gannett, McClatchy, etc.) that have “streamlined” operations by creating newspapers that are monotonous shells of their former selves.

Consolidation of newspapers often includes gutting newsrooms, eliminating investigations and original storytelling, and taking the local voice out of one’s hometown news. Since 2005, more than 3,000 newspapers have been shuttered across the United States. I hope readers of the Observer appreciate the detailed coverage of local news from local writers.

In today’s hyper-partisan media environment, it is rare for even medium-to-large cities to have one newspaper that prints daily or semi-daily; a reality for smaller cities is many are no longer served by any local news. Gone are the days where there might be competition between two daily newspapers, regard-

ever uses its bonding ability, it can buy those properties now, at today’s prices, rather than paying more in the future. Both partnerships and bonding were successful features of the original Volusia Forever. In addition to buying land outright, Volusia Forever works with land owners to place conservation easements on working lands, like farms. The property owner agrees to sell the rights to develop the land but retains ownership for agriculture, continuing to farm it. Conservation easements are perpetual and are an extremely valuable tool in maintaining Volusia County’s agricultural traditions, however, the Council may discontinue the use of conservation easements because of their perpetual nature.

Other key features of Volusia Forever are the citizen advisory committee, which evaluates potential land acquisitions and makes recommendations to the County Council; the appraisal process that uses licensed, independent appraisers; the Volusia Forever Dashboard, which provides information on land acquired or on the list for acquisition; and the yearly audit.

To date, Volusia Forever has protected approximately 63,000 acres of environ-

less of how large the media market might be.

To the Observer staff, keep up the good local reporting, stick to the facts, and please resist any future temptation to bring the cable news or social media sensationalism into it.

CASEY C. CHEAP Palm Coast Donating school property

Dear Editor:

I am writing in reference to recent reports of the donation of a building and property by the Volusia County School District to the DeLand Police Athletic League, a local nonprofit.

It is extremely disturbing to me that a school district that perpetually cries the blues about funding, or cuts programs or staff due to funding shortfalls, feels it can donate taxpayerprovided assets with no attempt to secure any type of recovery on behalf of taxpayers. When did it become the school district’s responsibility to decide for the taxpayers which nonprofits it would support and which it wouldn’t? Why are taxpayers in Edgewater or Ormond Beach contributing to a

mentally sensitive land. In total, Volusia County has about 257,000 acres of conservation land, including Federal land, like Canaveral National Seashore, state land like Tomoka State Park, and county and private conservation lands, all of which add up to about 37% of the county’s area. Several organizations have suggested that to meet future needs for water, flood control, agriculture, and biodiversity we should protect about 50% of our land, carefully selected for its environmental value, through a combination of government and private investment. However, that goal has not been formalized by local government. To ensure the most vital areas are protected, we hope you will let your County Council members know that you wish to keep Volusia Forever as it is, protecting our most vital lands in a fiscally sound way, FOREVER.

Melissa Lammers is the vice chair of the ECHO Volusia Forever Alliance, formerly the political action committee that ran the campaign for the reauthorization of Volusia Forever and ECHO. The alliance is composed of architects of the original ECHO and Volusia Forever resolutions and programs, former Volusia County Council members,

nonprofit in DeLand that will benefit almost exclusively DeLand residents.

And this is not the first time such a donation has been made by the school district. In 2024 the school district donated lots to nonprofit Homes Bring Hope to build affordable housing for six school districts employees, according to a September 2025 press release. These lots were in Daytona Beach near Bethune-Cookman University and Daytona State. Would these lots not have been attractive to either university to purchase for future expansion, thereby recovering some taxpayer funds? The press release also begs the question “is our school district paying its employees so poorly that they require affordable housing?” I worked for Volusia County schools for 13 years; no one offered me or any of my colleagues affordable housing.

This point of this letter is not to question the validity or purpose of the nonprofits, but rather to bring to taxpayer’s attention the carelessness with which the school district, and by virtue of their votes on these donations the elected school board, are handling taxpayer assets. As taxpayers, we give the school

former and current ECHO and Volusia Forever advisory board members, environmental and land-use attorneys and leaders from civic organization.

district enormous amounts of money and the duty to respect our contributions and property. I can decide which nonprofits I prefer to donate to; I don’t need the school district and its board making those decisions for me.

DOUG PETTIT Ormond Beach

Editor’s note: Volusia County Schools declined to comment. Endorsement for McMahon

Dear Editor: Conservative Citizens of Ormond Beach is pleased to announce their endorsement of Coleen McMahon for Ormond Beach City Commissioner in Zone 1. Coleen enters the race for Zone 1 as “one of us.” Her commitment to working as a team and to reduce spending, as well as her campaign’s theme of transparency for all Ormond Beach residents when it comes to their local government makes her a strong candidate. CCOB is proud to be in her corner!

AL STEWART AND JOSEPH OAKES Ormond Beach

YOUR NEIGHBORS

500 Moms

Helping solve food insecurity within the Flagler County community

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Marie McCormick’s idea for starting a nonprofit to help Flagler County students and families with food insecurity began over lunch.

McCormick’s friend Nina deBodisco, a Bunnell Elementary School teacher, said a lot of kids come to school hungry. Some arrive too late for free breakfast. They don’t bring a snack to school. They may not have had dinner the night

McCormick and some friends began supplying deBodisco’s class with snacks. After two years, McCormick said, they realized there was a greater need.

“The stories just seem to get worse and worse,” said McCormick, a Palm Coast nurse practitioner. “We’ve seen such an increase in our homeless population and in people that are really struggling to make ends meet here.”

So, McCormick and a group of friends have formed a nonprofit called 500 Moms. The organization has a threepronged approach to fight food insecurity among stu -

Providing “Breakfast After the Bell,” where kids who arrive late to school can grab breakfast items and eat them in the office or take them to class, “so they can start their day with something in their stomachs,” McCormick

Filling snack bins for classrooms. Each bin has about 80 items in it. “We actually did a survey at (BES) and asked teachers and students what kind of things they would want. So it’s based really on their suggestions,” she

“Mom’s Meals” is a program they hope to start in March. “This is the one that’s really near and dear to my heart,” McCormick said. Each Mom’s Meal is a kit of nonperishable pantry items that can make a meal that will feed four to six people. Each kit includes descriptions and instructions on how to cook it. They’re pre-tested to make sure they’re easy to cook, tasty and kid friendly. “We’ve already supplied some of these to Nina in an emergency situation for a few families that are having trouble making ends meet,” McCormick said. “And we’ve gotten a lot

of positive feedback.”

DeBodisco said one of the families said taco soup was the favorite so far.

“All the ingredients are included,” deBodisco said. “The recipes won’t take a lot of time. They are meals kids like and are not overwhelming for the mother to prepare.”

For now the group is using Bunnell Elementary School as its pilot program, although they would eventually like to expand to other elementary schools in the county. BES is one of five Title 1 schools in Flagler County but has the highest percentage of students in need, said Marcus Sanfilippo, Flagler Schools’ coordinator of special projects and former principal at BES.

“We have a significant population of students that live in poverty,” current BES Principal Cari Presley said. “That is a requirement of being designated Title 1, and we do have a population of students that are considered to be homeless through the Families in Transition program. So, this will not only serve those students and families, but just families that go through a rough time as well. And I think, for all of us, myself included, growing up, there were seasons where food insecurity was a real reality, and that might not be a permanent condition, but all families may experience that at one time or another. So, it’s great to have a resource that can be there for those families in that time of need as it arises.”

AN ARMY THAT’S GROWING

Through the 500 Moms’ website, 500moms.com and social media platforms, parents from

other states have inquired about adopting their own 500 Moms chapters, but first, McCormick said, they want to make sure the program is sustainable. Thus the reason for the name, 500 Moms.

“We came up with the name because we figured it was going to take an army,” McCormick said. “If we could get 500 moms that would commit to donating $20 a month, we would have a budget that we could help get this program up and started and be sustainable.”

They have a brand with a logo: “500 Moms” with a spoon; and a slogan: “One mission: no hungry kids.”

Everyone who becomes a mom — whether they are a mom, a dad or have no children — will receive a customized wooden spoon with the 500 Moms logo, their name and a number.

The spoon signifies that you are helper, a spoon. A child who is afraid of being stigmatized for being hungry simply has to say, “I need a spoon.”

“We want the kids to know if someone says that ‘I’m a spoon,’ that’s your safe place, that’s your person who’s

going to be there to help you,” McCormick said.

Debodisco said her heart was broken when a student once told her she didn’t complete her homework because she was hungry.

“She didn’t have anything to eat since the day before at school,” deBodisco said. “She said, ‘Sorry, Mrs. deBodisco. I didn’t do my homework. When I don’t eat, I can’t think.’”

DeBodisco’s spoon is hanging in her classroom.

“My hope is we don’t have children that go without a meal at night,” deBodisco said. “I’m super excited about it, and really proud they chose Bunnell Elementary to be the starter school.”

I AM A SPOON

Presley said BES is just getting started in establishing the program schoolwide. The school is planning a ribbon cutting this spring for a welcome center and family resource room, she said.

“It’s really been the perfect opportunity to get them involved with that and working to provide meals and snacks to families,” Presley said.

McCormick did her research. She reached out to Sanfilippo, who got her in contact with Rashawnda Lloyd-Miller, the school district’s Families in Transition liaison.

“Rashawnda really opened our eyes to the issue of homelessness in our school system and kids in unstable home environments and families who are really struggling,” McCormick said.

“I gave them input from the

school side and from somebody who works with families who have food insecurities,” Lloyd-Miller said. “Their goal is to spread to all of Flagler.”

When McCormick was establishing 500 Moms, she gathered her friends together and asked who was willing to volunteer. They all raised their hands. There are 12 founderdirector moms pictured on the website, including deBodisco and Lloyd-Miller.

Presley, BES assistant principals Eron Riley (he is one of the original ‘Moms’ with a numbered spoon), Jamie Scalia, and guidance counselor Hayley Marino, the school’s FIT liaison, are all spoons.

The organization has a lawyer working on getting it 501(c) (3) status. They have an Amazon wish list with items they need for the snack bins and breakfast program. Members of the Hammock Community Church have donated money, McCormick said.

“I’m a firm believer that if this is meant to be, God’s going to open the doors for us, and he has, so we’re trying now to do fundraisers. But our big push now is to try to get people to commit to $20 a month; $20 a month feeds a kid snacks for a month. It can provide three or four Moms Meals that will feed a family of four. So the funds go a long way. Right now we’ve got a few people with spoons and a number, and it’s just cool because you’re building a community within a community. We’re helping people in our neighborhood. It’s our neighbors that we’re helping.” To learn more or to become a spoon, go to 500Moms.com.

Chi Delta Omega celebrates 118 years of service

Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris joined members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chi Delta Omega Chapter on Jan. 18 at Palm Coast United Methodist Church to commemorate the organization’s Founders’ Day.

The international service organization — founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., in 1908 — is the oldest Greek-letter sorority established by African American college-educated women. This year marks 118 years of sisterhood and service.

The chapel was filled with members of the Divine Nine. The vibrant “pink and green” program featured special recognitions and musical selections by the NAACP Youth Duet, along with a duet from Samantha Brown and Stacey Smith. Chapter President Myra Middleton-Valentine and the Founders’ Day committee led by Marva Jones greeted guests.

The chapter honored four distinguished women for their leadership and community impact: Superintendent LaShakia Moore of Flagler County Schools; retired educator and university admin-

istrator, Dr. Robbie Johnson; Flagler County NAACP

President Phyllis Pearson and Mid-Eastern Athletic Hall of Famer Sandra Booker. Each honoree received an official proclamation from Mayor Norris and the Palm Coast City Council, designating Jan. 18, 2026, as Women of Excellence Day.

United Way launches new website

Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties recently announced a phased alignment of its digital presence. A key milestone in this effort, a press release stated, is the launch of a new website — ConnectVFC.org.

“As we prepare to celebrate our 85th year of service to this community, we’re proud to advance our communications and brand experience in ways that reflect both the maturity and momentum of our organization,” said Courtney Edgcomb, president and CEO of CF/UWVFC. “Through personalized giving strategies — including legacy and planned giving — we empower donors to make a greater impact today while building resources that will support our community for generations to come.”

CF/UWVFC’s redesigned website reflects a “more connected, user-focused

experience,” the press release states, featuring user-friendly navigation, refreshed brand voice and messaging, a unified visual identity, and a more accessible way for supporters to get involved. In addition to transitioning from unitedwayvfc.org to ConnectVFC.org, the organization consolidated Facebook and LinkedIn social media pages earlier this month. The official pages are:

„ Facebook: facebook.com/ YourUnitedWay „ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/ company/YourUnitedWay „ Instagram: instagram.com/ YourUnitedWay

New board for Portuguese American Cultural Center

The new Board of Directors of the Portuguese American Cultural Center took office on Jan. 14 during a general assembly.

PACC will be celebrating its 39th anniversary this year.

The Board of Directors for 2026: General Assembly — President Nelson Tereso, Vice President António Fernandes, Secretary RosaMaria Vitoria. Board of Directors — President Victor Oliveira, Vice Presidents Humberto Alves and Mário Ferreira. Treasurers Fátima Oliveira and Teresa Jesus. Secretaries Lucy Kelly, Tina Brito and Marissa Jesus. Fiscal Council — President Fernando Faria, Vice President Duarte Pereira, Secretary Carlos Fornelos. General Directors — Tony Brito, João Costa, Teresa Costa, António Cruz, Mário Dourado, Manuel Goulart, Alcides Lopes, Claudio Morais, Alcides Parracho, Fernanda Pereira, Júlio Pereira and Marcos Santos. The Disciplinary Council will be announced by the board soon.

LOCAL EVENTS

FRIDAY, JAN. 30

REZA: EDGE OF ILLUSION

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, 5500 State Route 100, Palm Coast

Details: REZA is an entertainer that delivers innovative and engaging illusive performances worldwide. Tickets cost $54-$64. Visit flaglerentertainment.com.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31

PROTECTED HABITATS AND SPECIES ALONG THE LOOP

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: Learn about local wildlife, plants and animals, as well as their habitats, from Jennifer Winters, protected species activity manager for Volusia County. This is a Regrow the Loop event.

ADULT ART WORKSHOP: ABSTRACT & NONOBJECTIVE GEL PRINTS

When: 12-3 p.m.

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond

Beach

Details: Lisa Carlson will teach gel printing skills.

Beginners and seasoned artists welcome. Workshop costs $62/$72. Register at www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.

BLUE JEANS AND BLING

When: 6-10 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds Cattleman’s Hall, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell

Details: Attend this benefit dinner and auction supporting the 4-H and FFA Youth Awards and Scholarship Fund at the Flagler County Fair and Youth Show. There will be dancing, a silent auction and door prizes. Attire is your favorite jeans and best bling. Tickets cost $50 per person. Visit FlaglerCountyFair.com.

KILLER BEAZ LIVE: BEST BUZZ IN TOWN TOUR

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach

Details: Celebrating 10 seasons on Discovery Channel’s “Moonshiners”, comedian Killer Beaz is on tour and coming to Ormond Beach. Tickets cost $29-$58. The higher priced tickets include

VIP seating, a meet and greet, photo op and signature card. Visit ormondbeachperformin gartscenter.csstix.com/

SUNDAY, FEB. 1

MOONRISE AT THE BEACH

When: 5:45-6:30 p.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers

Memorial State Park, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler

Beach

Details: Learn about the moon and watch it rise. Bring binoculars and a camera. Meet at the beachside pavilion. Program included with $5 vehicle entrance into the park.

MONDAY, FEB. 2

HALIFAX HEALTH

EDUCATIONAL SERIES

When: 1 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library

Details: Halifax Health educator Annette Tracy, a registered nurse, will discuss how movement and exercise can have surprising health benefits. Free event.

TUESDAY, FEB. 3

PETER FLETCHER

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach

Details: See a classical guitar concert by Peter Fletcher. Free event.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4

AARP MEETING

When: 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Ormond Beach Unitarian Universalist Church 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Guest speaker will be Barry Kukes, a Humane Society ambassador. He will present, “Talking About Pets.” Public is invited. A $5 optional light lunch to follow. Call Jeff Boyle at 386-341-9013 for more information.

THE SIXTIES SHOW

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center

Details: See this off-Broadway show and travel back to the 1960s. Tickets cost $40-$65. Visit ormondbeach performingartscenter.csstix. com/.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD —

AFTERNOON TEA

When: 2 p.m. Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library

Details: Enjoy black tea while learning more about the

history of teas, presented by library staff. Free event.

THE ITALIAN FESTIVAL

When: 5-9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 5 and 6; and 12-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7

Where: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Attend this festival, presented by Our Lady of Lourdes. Enjoy authentic Italian food including pizza and desserts, live entertainment, a beer garden, games, bounce houses and more. Free admission and parking.

2026 FLAGLERGOP

CANDIDATE FORUM

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast Details: The Flagler County Republican Executive Committee will conduct this candidate forum focusing on local Republican candidates seeking office in Flagler County and its municipalities. Register at www.flaglergop. com/event-Detailsregistration/2026-flaglergopcandidate-forum.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6

COCKTAILS WITH CATS When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Flagler Humane Society, 1 Shelter Drive, Palm Coast

Details: Join Flagler Humane Society for a Valentine’sthemed evening. Enjoy a specialty cocktail and mingle with adoptable cats. Free. Donations encouraged.

FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT When: 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens

Details: Make a fabric Valentine with instructors Linda King and Emma Dennison. Free. All art supplies provided.

FLAGLER BEACH FIRST FRIDAY When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: Veterans Park, 105 S. 2nd St.

Details: Entertainment by Anthony Wild.

KARLA BONOFF

When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center Details: Karla Bonoff is a singer/songwriter whose songs have become hits for Bonnie Raitt, Wynonna Judd and Linda Ronstadt. Tickets cost $45-$55. Visit ormond beachperformingartscenter. csstix.com/.

FOCUS ON FAITH

Temple Beth Shalom hosts pet blessing

Temple Beth Shalom welcomed pet lovers from across the community for its annual Blessing of the Pets on Sunday, Jan. 25. Rabbi Karen Tashman offered non-denominational blessings to four-legged, feathered, and even scaly companions during the event, which took place at the synagogue’s campus at 40 Wellington Drive in Palm Coast. The event attendees included the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Posse, along with a K-9 unit and their handlers. The Flagler Humane Society and Community Cats attended with dogs and cats available for adoption,

Italian festival returns to Ormond on Valentine’s

Day

The Knights of Columbus Father Eamonn Gill Council 13018 will once again bring the flavors and spirit of Italy to Ormond Beach with its annual Italian Festival Dinner & Dance, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 14, at the St. Brendan Catholic Church Social Hall, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd. Dinner service is 5- 6:30 p.m., followed by dancing, with local band The Moonlighters. Admission is $25 per person, and advance reservations are required. Call Vince at 386-441-4713. Proceeds benefit the St. Brendan Catholic School Scholarship Fund.

SEAS celebrates Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 25-31

Father Jose Panthaplamthottiyil, of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Palm Coast, celebrated Catholic Schools Week in his weekly bulletin column: “In our Catholic school, students learn to see Christ in others, to pray together, and to grow in their relationship with Jesus. Faith is at the heart of everything we do. Our children learn the teachings of the Church, participate in the sacraments, and develop a strong moral foundation.”

MARKET

YOUR SCHOOLS CLASS NOTES

Ormond students celebrate 100th day of school

Flagler School Board’s Ramirez earns certification

Flagler County School Board member Lauren Ramirez has been recognized by the Florida School Boards Association as a Certified Board Member; 27% of all Florida school board members earn this distinction.

To achieve CBM recognition, board members must complete 96 hours of training in areas such as policy, school finance and bargaining. The voluntary program is tailored to meet the development needs of individual board members.

FSBA Leadership Services

Director Tina Pinkoson said in press release: “Since her election in 2024, Lauren has shown a willingness and desire to learn.”

To retain CBM status, board members must complete a minimum of 15 hours of training each year.

Indian Trails exposes students to career paths

More than 450 students participated in the second annual Indian Trails Middle School Career Expo on Tuesday, Jan. 20. At the event, held in partnership with the Flagler County Education Foundation, high school students provided eighth graders and with information on classroom to career programs. Buddy Taylor Middle School will hold its Career Expo Jan. 30.

Flagler musicians perform with All-State Bands

Four Flagler Schools students performed with the Florida Music Education Association’s All-State Bands on Jan. 17 at

and Joshua Palacious (trombone) were selected to the All-State Middle School Band. Flagler Palm Coast’s Oliver Esquival-Novak (alto saxophone) and Matanzas’ George Biedenback (trombone) were selected to the All-State High School Band. The student musicians were selected through a competitive audition process in September. Matanzas Band Director Ryan Schulz led the High School Honors Band, coordinating with more than 100 schools across Florida to assemble an ensemble of

students. The annual Flagler All-County Band concert is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Jan. 31, at the Matanzas High School Pirate Theater.

REAL ESTATE

House in Palm Harbor sells for over $1.4M

Ahouse at 4 Old Oak Drive N., in Palm Harbor, was the top real estate transaction for Jan. 10-16 in Palm Coast and Flagler County.

The house sold on Jan. 12, for $1,415,000.

Built in 2021, the house is a 5/4 and has 2 half baths, a pool, a hot tub, a boat house and 4,225 square feet. The house was listed by Jennifer Wagner, of Realty Exchange.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

A condo at 55 Village Circle sold on Jan. 16, for $225,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 1,850 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $145,000.

A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 722, sold on Jan. 16, for $275,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It sold in 2011 for $110,000.

A condo at 9 Summer Terrace, Unit 1, sold on Jan. 16, for $210,000. Built in 2001, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,143 square feet. It sold in 2003 for $124,900.

A condo at 7 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 804, sold on Jan. 16, for $1,325,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,390 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $1,380,000.

A condo at 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, Unit C326, sold on Jan. 15, for $120,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 1/1.5 and

has 670 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $181,000.

A condo at 200 Cedar Cove, Unit 206, sold on Jan. 12, for $540,000. Built in 2011, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 2,501 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $460,000.

PALM COAST

Belle Terre

A house at 109 Barrington Drive sold on Jan. 16, for $360,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 4/2 and has 2 half baths and 2,338 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $228,000.

Country Club Harbor

A house at 50 Country Club Harbor Circle sold on Jan. 15, for $810,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a dock, a boat house and 2,367 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $805,000.

Grand Haven A house at 17 Grandview Drive sold on Jan. 13, for $480,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 4/2.5 and has an outdoor kitchen and 3,395 square feet. It sold in 2008 for $360,000.

A

is a 3/2.5 and has 2,208 square feet. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.

Daytona’s Multifamily Market: Leasing Strong, Development Slowing, Fundamentals Evolving

As new supply eases and rents stabilize, investors are watching Daytona's premium asset trends and shifting fundamentals.

By Jamie Cuzzocreo, Commercial Advisor | Watson Commercial Realty, Inc.

Daytona Beach’s multifamily sector continues to evolve, shaped by strong renter demand, moderating construction activity, and a shifting economic backdrop. While headwinds remain, the market is showing signs of stabilization — especially in top-tier assets.

Leasing Demand Holds Steady in Premium Assets

Over the past year, renter demand has remained solid, with 12month absorption reaching 2,100 units as of Q1 2026 — up from 1,700 units in the same period last year.

Notably, 4 & 5 Star properties accounted for nearly all leasing activity. These high-end communities continue to dominate both absorption and the development pipeline, underscoring a sustained renter preference for premium living environments.

While new deliveries remain elevated, development momentum is clearly slowing. Roughly 2,500 new units were delivered in the past 12 months, up 15% year-over-year. But looking ahead, only 1,300 units are currently under construction — a 50% drop from last year, with construction starts down over 70%. This signals a broader pullbackin new development and a pivot toward supply moderation.

As a result, vacancy is forecast to rise modestly by 50 basis points by year-end, settling in the mid-11% range as supply temporarily outpaces absorption in certain submarkets.

Flat Rents, Generous Concessions Define the Current Cycle Rent growth remains muted to negative, continuing a two-year trend. As of Q1, annual rent growth stands at -2.3%, with concessions of up to two months free now common among newly delivered communities. *All

Although modest improvement is expected in late 2026, growth will likely remain under 2.5% annually in the near term. The recent influx of 2,500 new apartments has intensified competition, giving renters more leverage and leaving limited room for price gains.

Despite these pressures, Daytona Beach remains relatively affordable, with average asking rents at $1,530/month — well below comparably sized Florida metros. That affordability continues to support demand, even as concessions climb to nearly double the national average.

Construction Slows, But the Pipeline Remains Premium

Since 2020, Daytona’s multifamily inventory has grown by 8,600 units, with over one-third of that within the Daytona Beach submarket. The Deland/Deltona area added 1,600 units, reflecting region-wide housing expansion.

Going forward, the pipeline looks more disciplined. Just 316 units are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2025, including the Marbella Palm Coast project. While fewer projects are launching, demand remains healthy enough to temper upward vacancy pressure through year-end.

One trend remains consistent: all deliveries in the past year were 4 & 5 Star properties. This confirms strong investor confidence in luxury, amenitized communities — and reflects renter appetite for high-end living, even amid soft rent growth.

Economic Growth, Migration Trends Bolster Long-Term Outlook Daytona Beach’s fundamentals are supported by ongoing population growth. The metro surpassed 700,000 residents by the end of 2023, and projections suggest 61,500 more will relocate here by 2029. That’s 1.2% average annual growth, driven largely by in-migration.

The local economy grew 3.5% in 2024, generating $32.5 billion in GDP. While future GDP growth is forecast to moderate to 2.0% annually, employment is expected to remain on pace with national trends, led by the hospitality, education, and healthcare sectors.

Meanwhile, Daytona’s location at the crossroads of I-95 and I-4 is making it increasingly attractive for logistics and industrial users Major deliveries — including three Amazon fulfillment centers and a 700,000 SF Trader Joe’s distribution hub — have added over 1,000 new jobs and diversified the region’s economic base.

What Does This Mean For You?

Whether you're a developer, operator, investor, or lender—this is a pivotal moment in Daytona’s multifamily cycle. We’re not in a downturn. We’re in a correction.

Luxury properties are still leasing. Supply is normalizing. But rent growth remains soft, and concessions are climbing. Navigating this next phase will take more than timing—it requires hyper-local insight, strategic positioning, and a sharp eye on where demand is shifting.

If you're holding, building, or repositioning assets, now is the time to assess your place in the market.

Indian Springs pool home sells for $850K

Ahouse in Indian Springs at 32 Indian Springs Drive was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-bythe-Sea for the week of Jan. 3-9. The house sold on Jan. 6, for $850,000. Built in 2002, the house sits on a property spanning over 2.5 acres, is a 4/4 and has two fireplaces, a pool, a spa and 3,850 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $485,000. The house was listed by Buzzy Porter, of Realty Pros Assured.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

Condos

The condo at 111 S. Atlantic Ave., Unit 405, sold on Jan. 6, for $385,000. Built in 1974, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,342 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $350,000.

The condo at 2100 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 205, sold on Jan. 9, for $276,000. Built in 1973, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,087 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $185,000.

ORMOND BEACH

Banyan Estates

The house at 105 Banyan Drive sold on Jan. 8, for $350,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,978 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $100,000.

Not in subdivision

The house at 345 Collins St. sold on Jan. 8, for $250,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 3/1.5 and has 1,376 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $230,000.

Lennar at Perserve at LPGA

The house at 2292 Green Valley St. sold on Jan. 8, for $319,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,824 square feet.

Ormond Lakes The house at 33 Wild Fern Lane sold on Jan. 7, for $423,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,123 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $225,000.

The house at 169 Pointview Lane sold on Jan. 7, for $335,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,196 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $319,000.

Pine Hills The manufactured house at 487 Collins St. sold on Jan. 9, for $80,000. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,238 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $80,000.

Ridgehaven The house at 434 Brookhaven Trail sold on Jan. 7, for $556,340. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/4.5 and has 3,800 square feet.

Sawtooth The house at 5 Southern Pine Trail sold on Jan. 8, for $331,500. Built in 1984, the

The house at 2316 Green Valley St. sold on Jan. 8, for $319,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,824 square feet.

house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,132 square feet. It last sold in 1998 for $142,450.

The Trails The house at 4 Pueblo Trail sold on Jan. 7, for $460,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 2,315 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $434,700.

Tomoka Estates

The house at 1148 Landers St. sold on Jan. 2, for $370,000. Built in 1973, the house is a 3/2 and has a gazebo and 1,329 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $170,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Not in subdivision

The house at 28 River Drive sold on Jan. 9, for $390,000. Built in 1952, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 1,473 square feet. It last sold in 1999 for $64,500.

Raymonde Shores

The house at 1 Raymonde Circle sold on Jan. 7, for $375,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,290 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $280,000.

Seabridge

The house at 18 Sea Hawk Drive sold on Jan. 5, for $423,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,560 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $180,000.

The house at 13 Seabridge Drive sold on Jan. 8, for $480,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,547 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $548,500.

John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.

BUSINESS

Noble Infusion expands to Palm Coast

The infusion therapy company will open its third location by late February.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

When Noble Infusion opened just two years ago in Ormond Beach, there was a desert of infusion therapies, founder Shaya Fogel said.

Now, Noble Infusion is readying to open its third location, in Palm Coast, by late February. The new office space — located at 50 Leanni Way, Suite A5 — is already in its opening season, Fogel said, and scheduling Palm Coast patients for their next appointments.

“We absolutely address a big need,” Fogel said. “That’s why we’re opening up now in Palm Coast.”

But what are infusion therapies? They are medical treatments that are received through injections or through an IV infusion. Noble Infusion treats every chronic illness that is treatable by either an injectable or an IV infusion, excepting cancer treatments, Fogel said.

A lot of their clients have Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairments. Others have uncontrollably high cholesterol. Other common conditions are uncontrollable gout, arthritis, osteoporosis.

“When we opened up here, we really wanted to serve this area and its patients,” Fogel said.

Injectable treatments, Fogel said, can be life changing. Their first patient was taking an injection for Alzheimer’s

and now, at 76, the man has passed an accountant exam.

Sometimes, he said, it can be hard to find places that will treat some common chronic illnesses, especially those common among the older population, because companies may lose money on the treatments.

Fogel said Medicare and supplemental insurance pay a set amount for a treatment, regardless of the price of the drug.

The difference with Noble Infusion from other treatment centers, he said, is that their offices focus on every drug and every treatment equally. They take the orders in the order they receive them.

“Just because a drug is expensive and one is not doesn’t mean that person is not suffering the same,” Fogel said.

Noble Infusion tries to keep the cost as low as possible, or at no cost, for the patients, he said, including helping patients to enroll in programs that will cover their treatments.

Fogel said their Palm Coast office already has as many as 80 patients, and is growing.

The company has over 70

different kinds of drug treatments they can administer, all of which have been approved by the Food & Drug Administration. Each clinic has three levels of clinicians on staff: a medical director who has a medical degree, a nurse practitioner as the director of clinical services and registered nurses who are experts in IV starts and injectables.

Fogel said they specifically searched for registered nurses who came from hospital ICUs and emergency rooms to ensure they all had the necessary experience and expertise. It’s important, he said, for doctors to familiarize themselves with what kind of injectable treatments are available for their patients. And patients suffering from a chronic illness should also do their research to see what kind of treatments are available. And Noble Infusion can help education on what treatments might be available for their illness, he said.

“Not everyone gets help,” he said. “That’s the truth. But the amount of people that see tremendous improvement — it’s so much that there’s great hope for everyone.”

The house at 2300 Green Valley St. sold on Jan. 8, for $319,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,824 square feet.

The house at 2284 Green Valley St. sold on Jan. 9, for $309,120. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,487 square feet.

Season sweep

FPC overcomes Jayden McCoy’s 29 points to topple Matanzas, 6358. The Bulldogs swept the season series.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Flagler Palm Coast’s boys basketball team completed a season sweep against rival Matanzas on Friday, Jan. 23, with a 63-58 victory at the Bulldogs’ gym.

Both games were close. But in the first game, Nate Perry’s jumper with 4 seconds left lifted FPC to a 60-58 win. This time, the Bulldogs led by as many 14 points in the fourth quarter with two late 3-pointers by the Pirates narrowing the margin.

While Jayden McCoy poured in 29 points, representing half of the Pirates’ scoring, the Bulldogs put together a balanced attack with four players scoring in double figures.

Nateshawn Royal, who scored 24 when the Pirates and Bulldogs last met on Dec. 12, led the way for the Bulldogs again with 15 points. Perry scored 13, forward Anthony Hampton had 11 and center Siah Sanders added 10. “It feels good,” Hampton

said. “We got the season sweep taken care of, and we won like how we should have. I felt like everybody on the court contributed. Everybody executed the offense perfectly.”

Both teams adjusted their defenses this time around, FPC coach Greg Shirley said.

“Matanzas ran an inverted triangle-and-two (focusing on shooters Perry and Hampton),” Shirley said. “Pretty creative, but that puts Nateshawn and Siah in a position where they can do what they do. They’re very talented players also.”

Shirley said the Bulldogs stretched their defense out to limit the Pirates’ 3-point shooting. Matanzas hit seven 3-pointers in both games, but this time, McCoy had more openings to drive to the basket. The sophomore scored all of his points inside the 3-point arc. If he wasn’t hitting driving layups, he was getting to the foul line, where he sank 11 of 13 attempts.

“He’s a tremendous athlete,” Shirley said.

McCoy’s scoring explosion wasn’t an isolated instance.

In his past five games, before the Pirates’ 83-69 win against Ridgeview on Jan. 26, McCoy scored 22, 32, 20, 27 and 29 points.

Averi

“I just try to get it started, so we can get the ball moving and hit open shooters in the corner,” McCoy said. “Honestly, I’m not concerned about the points. I’m just concerned about winning, and that’s something we got to get better at as a team.”

The Pirates (7-12) had lost four in a row before the win against Ridgeview. A young team, Matanzas has just one senior and one junior in its regular rotation. Three sophomores — McCoy, Curtis Giles and Jamel Guererro average in double figures.

Guererro had nine points on three 3-pointers at FPC, while Giles and freshman Tim Shalypin each scored six points.

“We were inconsistent,” McCoy said. “It was a big crowd, so I think we got a little too excited. I’m ready to win these last [two] games and then win districts.”

The Pirates hosted St. Joseph on Tuesday and will end the regular season on Thursday, Jan. 29 at Menendez.

The Bulldogs (14-8) snapped a two-game losing streak playing their third

game in five days. They had another busy week beginning on Jan. 26 with three

Miller wins U-8 Elks Soccer Shoot Southeast championship

The Wadsworth Elementary School third grader scored 40 out of a possible 45 points at the regional.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Averi Miller, 8, couldn’t remember when she started playing soccer. Her mother answered for her.

“She has been on a soccer field her whole life,” Rashawnda Lloyd-Miller said. “She started playing when she was 3, because her older sister [Kendall, now 12] was playing.”

At age 8, Averi has a chance to become a national champ. She won the Elks Soccer Shoot U-8 Southeast Regional on Jan. 18 at the Florida Elks

Youth Camp in Umatilla. Her competition included kids from Mississippi, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. They had to shoot a soccer ball into five goals from 15 feet out. The goals varied in width from 48 inches down to 18 inches.

Averi won four previous competitions to get to the Southeast Region, starting with the local Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709 competition on Oct. 18. She then won the district in DeLand, and the Florida region in midDecember and then the state championship on Jan. 3, both at the Elks Youth Camp. At the Southeast Regional, she converted 24 of 25 shots, missing one on the 18-inch goal, to score 40 out of a possible 45 points. The national competition is virtual with all of the regions reporting their results by April, said Ray and Gail Williams, who adminis-

ter the Soccer Shoot program for the Palm Coast lodge. After winning the region title, Averi participated in a tiebreaker round that could be used pending other national results. She scored on four of the five goals.

Averi posed with her collection of Elks Soccer Shoot trophies at Belle Terre Park on Thursday, Jan. 22. She is a third grader at Wadsworth Elementary School. She and Kendall both play up (for higher age-group teams) with Inter-United Soccer Club in Palm Coast. They also participate in the Flagler County Youth Soccer Association at Wadsworth Park.

When Averi competed in the local Elks Soccer Shoot event, she said she couldn’t believe how big the largest goal was and how small the 18-inch goal was. But she soon got the hang of it.

Wrestling returns to Pirates gym, as Matanzas hosts FPC

The crowd was exuberant despite a one-sided match, which the experienced Bulldogs won, 64-6.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

After an absence of nearly two years, wrestling competition returned to the Matanzas High School gym.

The Pirates had not hosted a tournament or a dual match since the 2023-24 season. On Thursday, Jan. 21, they hosted Flagler Palm Coast in a boys dual. And although the match was one-sided with FPC winning 64-6, the crowd was exuberant, loudly cheering for each Matanzas wrestler.

“There’s always been a good rivalry between Matanzas and FPC wrestling. Whether it’s there or here, there’s usually a pretty big crowd,” said John White, who took over the Matanzas program again this year after stepping away from coaching after the 202122 season. White started the Pirates’ wrestling program when the school opened 20 years ago.

While the Bulldogs are an experienced team that was preparing to compete in the Duals State Champion-

ships, Jan. 23-24, the Pirates are rebuilding. They have no seniors and only two juniors. But they had nearly a full lineup against the Bulldogs after forfeiting six of 14 matches a year ago when the teams wrestled at FPC.

“Hats off to Coach White,” FPC coach David Bossardet said. “He stepped in, took over that program, and they put together just about a full lineup. The score was maybe a little one-sided, but I do think he’s doing a good job here. They’re Flagler County kids and they’re moving in the right direction, so hats off to them.”

The Pirates won one match, with junior Jackson Marchman pinning Brian Veal in 3:39 in the 215-pound match.

“Jackson did what he’s supposed to do,” White said. “He scored when he needed to score, and then he had great mat awareness. He kept his foot in and got the pin when the kid was out of bounds. Jackson did a great job.”

There was only one match that went the full six minutes with FPC’s Braden Dailey winning a 9-7 decision over Jacob Gibson at 120 pounds. The Bulldogs won the remaining 10 matches by pin or technical fall. The teams had a double forfeit at 106 pounds and Matanzas forfeited the 285-pound match.

“They had a loud crowd here tonight,” Bossardet said. “This gym gets very loud. And I think that got to us a little bit in some matches. (The 120-pound match) comes to mind. The kid catches us, and the crowd gets very loud, and I think that got in our head a little bit. I do appreciate the environment. You want to wrestle in environments like this, but you can’t let it impact what you’re doing.”

Flagler Palm Coast falls at state duals; six win matches

Oviedo Hagerty defeated Flagler Palm Coast 40-27 in Round 3 of the FHSAA Dual Team Wrestling Tournament on Friday, Jan. 23, at Osceola High School in Kissimmee. Hagerty advanced to Saturday’s Class 3A state semifinals where it lost to eventual state champ South Dade.

Twilley, a junior, said that in his three years on the team, this is the best the Bulldogs have looked at this point in the season.

“Everybody looks really good,” he said. “I think this

In the other matches, FPC’s Jacob Hald (113), Kevin McLean (126), Michael Fries (157), Ronden Ricks (165) and JoJo Foalima (175) won by technical fall (where the match ends when one wrestler gains a 15-point advantage). Buster Bossardet (132), Trey Twilley (138), Lenny Fries (144), Gabriel Moy (150) and Doyvonne Leadon (190) won by pin for the Bulldogs.

year we’re going to do some pretty big things.”

White, meanwhile, is seeing progress from his young wrestlers.

“When I watched this match, we were able to compete for a period or for three minutes,” White said. “We just are so young, we’re not able to put six full minutes together against a tough team. So we got to get to that. We will. Give me a year or so, we will be competing against some of these guys again.”

Six FPC wrestlers won their matches against Hagerty. The Bulldogs were strong in the lighter weight classes with Braden Dailey winning by pin in 1:39 at 113 pounds, Kevin McLean winning by pin in 1:36 at 120 pounds and Buster Bossardet winning a 9-3 decision at 126 pounds. Lenny Fries won by pin in 4:31 at 138 pounds. Michael Fries won a 7-5 decision over Aurelio Gutierrez at 150 pounds, scoring a takedown with 1:36 left in the third period. And Doyvonne Leadon won a 6-1 decision at 175 pounds. The Bulldogs will host the 40th annual Flagler Rotary Invitational on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30-31.

FPC sweeps district girls weightlifting

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Flagler Palm Coast won two team championships and three individual titles at the District 3-3A girls weightlifting championships on Jan. 24, at Creekside High School.

The Bulldogs totaled 52 points to win the traditional title, with Creekside in second with 46 points. FPC also won the Olympic competition with 57 points, with Nease the runner-up with 35.

Nya Williams, the Bulldogs’ 119-pounder, outlifted everyone in the meet with 355-pound totals in both competitions to take home two championship medals. The junior — a USA Weightlifting national champ and state high school runner-up last year

— completed a 200-pound clean-and-jerk and lifted 155 pounds in both the snatch and bench press.

FPC’s Lynnsie Jones won the 183-pound title in the traditional competition with a 295 total and placed second in the Olympic competition with a 260 total. Also placing in the top three for the Bulldogs were: 110 pounder Angelis Rosa (second traditional, 220; third Olympic, 205); 119-pounder Aaradhana Moluguri (third traditional, 240; second Olympic, 240); 139-pounder Lily Ames (second traditional, 285; second Olympic, 270); 154-pounder Cali Weehunt (second traditional, 275; second Olympic, 265); 154-pounder Navaeh Martinez Serrano (third Olympic,

220); 169-pounder Brianna Long (second traditional, 290; third Olympic, 255); and 199-pounder Arianna Almeida (third traditional, 275; third Olympic, 255). Matanzas 183-pounder Katelyn Meade placed third in traditional with 260 pounds. At the District 4-3A meet at Spruce Creek, Mainland 183-pounder Serenity Causier placed second in traditional with 275 pounds and third in Olympic with 260 pounds. Mainland 139-pounder Camari Preston placed third in traditional with 235 pounds. In District 8-2A at New Smyrna, Seabreeze 129-pounder Camila Arellano placed third in traditional (290 pounds) and Olympic (260).

FPC will host the Region 1-3A meet on Jan. 31.

Ouellette’s goal, Neal’s penalty-kick save keep FPC’s playoff hopes alive

The Bulldogs improved to 14-1-5 with a 1-0 victory over Atlantic Coast in the district semifinals.

BRENT

WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Left winger Katherine Ouellette was in the right place at the right time. So was goalkeeper Natalie Neal. As a result, Flagler Palm Coast’s girls soccer team advanced to the District 1-7A championship game with a 1-0 defeat of Atlantic Coast in a semifinal on Thursday, Jan. 23.

Ouellette scored the only goal of the game off a long cross by Autumn McGivney. Neal had 11 saves — the biggest one was stopping a penalty kick in the early minutes of the contest. With the victory, the Bulldogs improved to 14-1-5. They lost to St. Johns Creekside 5-0 in the district final on Tues -

day, Jan. 27. The Knights are ranked third in the state in Class 7A. FPC is still expected to receive a regional playoff bid. The regional quarterfinals are Feb. 5.

“I was definitely not expecting it,” Ouellette said of her goal. “But coach (Pete) Hald always tells me to be on the backside, so I stayed on backside just in case it would go over there.”

Sure enough, she got the ball and took advantage of some miscommunication by the Stingrays.

“My mark was telling the goalie to save it, but the goalie was too far away,” Ouellette said. “So I went by her and took a shot.”

Atlantic Coast (7-8-2) got the early PK opportunity after a ball hit Skyler Strickland’s arm. Neal dove left on the kick and got the save.

“I don’t really guess which side to take,” she said. “I just see what foot they’re kicking it with, and I dive to (the other) side. She was kicking (with her) right, so I dived to my right, which would be her left, because I feel like most players go across. I just hoped it was on the ground. I dove and I saved it. So, It was a good PK (save), I feel like.”

Neal’s save and Ouellette’s goal likely preserved a spot in the playoffs for the Bulldogs. They were ranked seventh in the region heading into the game. Eight teams make the playoffs in each region — the four district champs and the next four highest ranked teams. With nobody in District 2 ranked among the top 10, the champ in that district will bump the eighth-ranked team, so, No. 7 will get the last spot. Heading into the district semifinals, the Bulldogs were less than half a rating point behind No. 6 Timber Creek.

The Bulldogs knew the home game with Atlantic Coast would be close. The Stingrays came in with a .500

record, but they had played a very difficult schedule.

FPC had two shots that bounced off the crossbar which could have given the Bulldogs a cushion. But Neal made several key saves in the final minutes to preserve the win.

“A number of times they were able to ping the ball all the way to the front,” Hald said. “But Natalie played well in the goal, Eva (Sites) played really well at center back and Makayla (Barbel) played really well at that holding mid position. We played with a lot energy.”

Neal had to dive on one of her saves after it bounced off her hands. An opposing player was ready to pounce on the rebound, but Neal got to it first.

“It was a very intense game,” she said. “I was hoping my team would keep it in the other half, but the other team, they were getting very aggressive.”

The Bulldogs advanced to the district final for the 26th

“I was definitely not expecting it.

“But coach (Pete) Hald always tells me to be on the backside, so I stayed on backside just in case it would go over there.”

KATHERINE OUELLETTE on her goal

time in Hald’s 35 years as the team’s head coach. The last time was two years ago. The Bulldogs have not advanced to the regional playoffs since 2021.

Bill Kowske, 78, makes three holes-in-one in 12 days at Halifax Plantation

Kowske was playing with the Men’s Golf Association when he aced No. 3 twice and No. 13 once, Jan. 9-20.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The odds of any golfer making a hole-in-one are 1-in12,500, according to GolfPass and American Hole ’n One websites. The odds of getting three holes-in-one in 12 days?

To quote the movie, “The Princess Bride”: “Inconceivable!”

But Bill Kowske did just that

playing with the Men’s Golf Association at Halifax Plantation Golf Club from Jan. 9-20.

“It was extremely unreal,” said the 78-year-old Kowske, who has a handicap index of 17.

“I’m an average senior golfer, mid-handicapper. I’m not at the level where you get three holes-in-one in 12 days.”

And even more amazing? He has made four holes-in-one previously — two in Michigan and two in North Carolina, he said.

“I’m trying to win the Lotto now,” he joked.

He played in different pairings each day with Halifax Plantation’s MGA during this streak. They came on the course’s par-3 No. 3 and No. 13

holes. The first one, on Friday, Jan. 9, was his best shot of the three. He used an 8-iron on No. 3, playing 124 yards that day with the pin placement at the back right of the green, he said.

“I destroyed the hole,” Kowske said. “I didn’t see it. When I got there, the hole was all busted up. It tore the top of the cup and went all the way to the bottom of the pin.”

The second one came on Tuesday, Jan. 13, on No. 13. He never saw that one go in and neither did anyone else in his group. When they got to the hole, they said, “Where’s Bill’s ball?” Then someone said, “It’s in the hole.” The distance was about 110 yards

and Kowske used a pitching wedge.

The third one was on Tuesday, Jan. 20, back on No. 3. The pin was in the middle of the green. The distance was about 150 to 160 yards, he said. Kowske used a 9-iron. Again, he never saw the ball go in the hole.

None of the rounds were his best, he said.

“There’s a certain emotion when you get one of those and you don’t play well after that. You wonder what happened, because it’s so rare,” Kowske said. “I’d say it’s 95% luck, 5% skill.”

He knew he hit all three directly at the pin, but seeing the ball in the cup was a

shocker each time.

“You hope it gets to the green, you never expect it to go in the hole,” said Kowske, who said he has been playing golf since his youth. “My goal when I stand up at a par 3 is to have the opportunity for a birdie putt. But to have all three land in the bottom of the cup, it’s a real thrill. It just is.”

“You hope it gets to the green, you never expect it to go in the hole. ... To have all three land in the bottom of the cup, it’s a real thrill.”

BILL KOWSKE

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NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOT 5, AND THE WESTERLY 20 FEET OF LOT 4, DAYTONA PINES, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 10, PAGE

PUBLIC NOTICES

TS No: 141226-FL APN: 8130-41-010100 NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE WHEREAS, on 3/15/2006, a certain Mortgage Deed of Trust was executed by BUFORD LENARD AND ELIZABETH LENARD, HUSBAND AND WIFE as trustor in favor of FINANCIAL FREEDOM SENIOR FUNDING CORPORATION, A SUBSIDIARY OF INDY MAC BANK, F.S.B. as beneficiary, and was recorded on 3/27/2006, as Instrument No. 2006-074292, in Book 5793, Page 3377, in the Office of the Recorder of Volusia County, Florida; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family house; and WHEREAS, the beneficial interest in the Mortgage Deed of Trust is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an assignment dated 8/14/2023, recorded on 8/21/2023, as instrument number 20231709014, book 8449, page 1026, in the office of Volusia County, Florida; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage Deed of Trust in that the payment due upon the move out of the borrower(s) was not made and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this notice, and no payment has been made sufficient to restore the loan to currency; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of 1/16/2026 is $243,463.57; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage Deed of Trust to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 10/16/2025 as Instrument No. 2025194745, Book 8767, Page, 4645, notice is hereby given that on 2/27/2026 at 11:00 AM local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Legal Description: LOT 10, IN BLOCK 1086, OF DELTONA LAKES UNIT 41, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 27, AT PAGE 246 THROUGH 261, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLU-

SIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. Commonly known as: 2327 INDIA BLVD, DELTONA, FL 32738 The sale will be held at: Outside the main entrance of the Volusia County Courthouse located at 101 N. Alabama Ave., DeLand, Florida Per the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the estimated opening bid will be $247,638.53. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his pro rata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, the winning bidders with the exception of the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling ten percent (10%) of the Secretary’s estimated bid amount in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made payable to the undersigned Foreclosure Commissioner. Ten percent of the estimated bid amount for this sale is $24,763.85. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $24,763.85 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15 day increments for a fee of: $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashiers check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the

Foreclosure Commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure is based did not exist at the time of service of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed. The amount that must be paid if the Mortgage Deed of Trust is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is based on the nature of the breach, this loan is not subject to reinstatement. A total payoff is required to cancel the foreclosure sale or the breach must be otherwise cured. A description of the default is as follows: FAILURE TO PAY THE PRINCIPAL BALANCE AND ANY OUTSTANDING FEES, COSTS, AND INTEREST WHICH BECAME ALL DUE AND PAYABLE BASED UPON THE MOVE-OUT BY ALL MORTGAGORS FROM THE PROPERTY, CEASING TO USE THE PROPERTY AS THE PRINCIPAL

FL 32721-6043. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2026

2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO. 2025-CP-771 DIVISION 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF MARLA TERESA PURVIS DECEASED. The administration of the estate of Marla Teresa Puvis, deceased, whose date of death was April 7, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd. #5, Building #1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN

3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is January 29, 2026. Attorney for Personal Representative /s/ Dallas R. Hedstrom DALLAS R. HEDSTROM Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 89066 HEDSTROM LAW, P.A. 601 ST. JOHNS A VE PALATKA, FL 32177 Telephone: (386) 385-3101 Fax: (386) 530-2794 E-Mail: dallas@hehalaw.com Secondary E-Mail: vikki@hehalaw. com Personal Representative: /s/ Alicea M. Placido Alicea M. Placido 36715 Little Leaf Dr. Palmdale, CA 93550 7763-334053 Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 2026

SALE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Fraser’s Storage, 1800 Old Moody Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110 will sell the contents of the following self-storage units by public auction to satisfy their liens against these tenants, in accordance with the Florida Self-Storage Facility Act. The auction will take place at this location at 1:30 PM on Friday, February 20, 2026, or thereafter. Units are believed to contain household goods, unless otherwise listed Unit Tenant Contents 113 Wieder, Jay Household Goods 117 Daniels, Richard Misc Household Goods 153 Mitchell, Shantel Household Goods 157 Williams IV, Timothy Misc Household Items 250 Mohr, Charles Household Goods 251 Mitchell, Shantel Household Goods 504 Richardson, Christina Misc Household Goods 522 Gilbert, Cindy Misc Household Items 526 Belle, Teresa Fishing equipment/ Misc Household items 607

the contents of the following self-storage units by public auction to satisfy their liens against these tenants, in accordance with the Florida Self-Storage Facility Act. The auction will take place at this location at 2:00 PM on Friday February 20, 2026 or thereafter. Units are believed to contain household goods, unless otherwise listed. Unit Tenant (2) Contents

204 Jaurey, Gonzalo Misc Household Items

504 Warren, Christopher Tools Fraser’s Mini-Storage of Bunnell, 1504 Old Moody Blvd Bunnell, FL 32110. Phone: (386)437-2457. 7763-334111 Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 2026

GRAND HAVEN COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NOTICE OF BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULAR MEETING

Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Grand Haven Community Development District (the “District ”) will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Grand Haven Village Center, Grand Haven Room, 2001 Waterside Parkway, Palm Coast, Florida 32137. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss any topics presented to the board for consideration.

Copies of the agenda may be obtained from the District Manager, Vesta District Services, 250 International Parkway, Suite 208, Lake Mary, Florida 32746, Telephone (321) 263-0132, Ext. 193.

The meeting is open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law for community development districts. The meeting may be continued in progress without additional notice to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Staff and/or Supervisors may participate by speaker telephone.

Pursuant to provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in the meeting is asked to advise the District Manager’s office at least forty-eight (48) hours before the meeting by contacting the District Manager at (321) 263-0132, Ext. 193. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service at 711, for assistance in contacting the District Manager’s office.

A person who decides to appeal any decision made at the meeting, with respect to any matter considered at the meeting, is advised that a record of the proceedings is needed and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

Grand Haven Community Development District David McInnes, District Manager (321) 263-0132, Ext. 193

7763-333951

Jan. 29, 2026

1504 Old Moody Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110 will sell

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL , FLORIDA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL , FLORIDA will hold a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 7:00 P M on the 9th day of February 2026, for the purpose of Second and Final Reading for Ordinance 2026-03, before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, Florida 32110.

ORDINANCE 2026-03

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL , FLORIDA AMENDING THE BUNNELL LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE CHAPTER 10 – FLOODS AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT TO CREATE ARTICLE IV – EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL TO COMPLY WITH THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CITY S MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEMS; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND APPLICABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell s website at www bunnellcity us on the homepage The public is advised to check the City s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date A copy of all pertinent information to this Ordinance can be obtained at the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting

NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes) 7763-331931

Jan 29, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon

Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to build a 45-foot pole at the approx. vicinity of 5883 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL, 32137 [Lat: 29-29-56.16, Long: -81-9-26.6]. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Jennifer Esch, j.esch@trileaf.com, 2600 Maitland Center Pkwy, Ste 330, Maitland, FL 32751, 407-660-7840.

7763-333999

Jan. 29, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

$14,997.41 USD was seized via search warrant by the Flagler County Sheriff's Office on December 15, 2025. The funds originated from victim(s) located in Flagler County which were taken fraudulently and under false pretenses on or around June 27, 2025.

7763-333423

Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

0.01202061 Bitcoin with an approximate value of $1,100.00 USD was seized by the Flagler County Sheriff's Office on December 15, 2025. The funds originated from victim(s) located in Flagler County which were taken fraudulently and under false pretenses between March 7, 2025 and March 8, 2025.

7763-333467

Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT in accordance with Section 177.101 of the Florida Statutes, William C. McKinney intends to petition the Board of County Commissioners of Flagler County, Florida, on February 9, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible during its regular scheduled meeting to relocate the 5 foot wide drainage and utility easement adjacent (10 feet total when combined with the adjacent lot) to interior side lot lines on the common lot line lying between Lot 67 and Lot 68 of Veranda Bay Phase 1A, as recorded in Map Book 40, Pages 59 through 64, in the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida, to the exterior side lot lines for the resulting combined parcel to create a 10 foot wide drainage and utility easement adjacent to the exterior side lot lines (10 feet along the South lot line of Lot 67 and 10 feet along the North lot line of Lot 68).

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE 286.0105, EACH BOARD, COMMISSION, OR AGENCY OF THIS STATE OR OF ANY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION THEREOF SHALL INCLUDE IN THE NOTICE OF ANY MEETING OR HEARING, IF NOTICE OF THE MEETING OR HEARING IS REQUIRED, OF SUCH BOARD, COMMISSION OR AGENCY, CONSPICUOUSLY ON SUCH NOTICE, THE ADVICE THAT, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD, AGENCY, OR COMMISSION WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT SUCH MEETING OR HEARING, HE OR SHE WILL NEED A RECORD

OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND THAT, FOR SUCH PURPOSE, HE OR SHE MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. 7763-333830

Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE 2012 Chevrolet Traverse with VIN: 1GNKRFED5CJ343776 was seized for forfeiture by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office on September 30, 2025. The items were seized at or near US Hwy 1 Palm Coast, FL. The Flagler County Sheriff is holding the property for purposes of a current forfeiture action 2025 CA 000711 in the 7th Circuit Court. 7763-332869 Jan. 22, 29, 2026

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000160

DIVISON: 49 JAMES A. HOGAN, et al Plaintiffs

V. KENNETH P. ASTON, JR., and LORI A. ASTON, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: KENNETH P. ASTON, JR. LORI A. ASTON 3147 N. Oceanshore Blvd. Flagler Beach, FL 32136 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an Amended Complaint for Nuisance has been filed against you in this court and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to Dennis K. Bayer, attorney for Plaintiffs, whose address is 109 S. 6th Street, Flagler Beach, FL 32136 and file the original with the clerk in the above styled court on or before February 9, 2026; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief prayed for in the complaint. This notice shall be published once each week for four consecutive weeks in The Observer, Palm Coast, Flagler County, Florida on January 8, 2026; January 15, 2026; January 22, 2026; January 29, 2026. WITNESS my hand and seal of said Court on this day of 1/5/2026 TOM BEXLEY Clerk of the Court By: /s/

ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFFS 7763-331747

Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that

The City of Flagler Beach proposes to adopt the following ordinance entitled:

ORDINANCE 2026-03

An Ordinance by the City Commission of the City of Flagler Beach, Florida, amending Appendix "A" Land Development Regulations, Article II, Zoning; amending Section 2.04.02.9. related to barrier island residential development standards; amending lot area, density, and lot width requirements; providing for inclusion in the Code of Ordinances; providing for conflicts; providing an effective date hereof

City Commission: Thursday, February 12, 2026 @ 5:30 p m or soon thereafter

City Commission: Thursday, February 26, 2026 @ 5:30 p m or soon thereafter

The public hearings may be continued to a future date or dates The times and dates of any continuance of a public hearing shall be announced during the public hearing without any further published notice The request will be heard at 5:30 PM, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Commission Chambers located at 105 South Second Street, Flagler Beach, Florida If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at the above referenced hearings, he/she will need a record of the proceedings For such purposes, it may be necessary to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk’s Office at 386-517-2000 Ext 233 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting 7763-334072

Jan 29, Feb 19, 2026

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION Case No. 2025-CP 000580 Section 10

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GLENN MADORMA

The Administration of the Estate of Glenn Madorma, deceased, File Number 2025-CP 000580, Whose date of death was September 21, 2024, is pending in The Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit, Flagler County Florida Probate Division the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd, Bunnell, Florida 32110 Probate Division.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons on whom this notice is served who have objections that challenge the validity of the will, the qualifications of the personal representative, venue or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court. WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY

DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claim with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The date of first publication of this notice is:

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SECOND INSERTION

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

2024 CA

CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2017-6, Plaintiff, VS. UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES, AS; RACHEL REYES; MICKEY REYES; MICHAEL REYES; CHRISTOPHER REYES; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A SHELLSEA MONGE; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A WILLAM CRUZ; ALBERTO MIGUEL REYES; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S) WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sale will be made pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment. Final Judgment was awarded on January 13, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2024 CA 000393, of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein, CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2017-6 is the Plaintiff, and UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES, AS; RACHEL REYES; MICKEY REYES; MICHAEL REYES; CHRISTOPHER REYES; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A SHELLSEA MONGE; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A WILLAM CRUZ; ALBERTO MIGUEL REYES; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S) WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS,

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000298 NEWREZ LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, vs. MARTHA HUGHES WILSON, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered January 06, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2025 CA 000298 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Flagler County, Bunnell, Florida, wherein NEWREZ LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING is Plaintiff and Martha Hughes Wilson, et al., are Defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of Court, TOM W. BEXLEY, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online via https://flagler.realforeclose.com/index.cfm in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 13th day of February, 2026 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 3, Block 77, Palm Coast, Map of Lakeview, Section 37, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 13, Pages 1 through 29, inclusive, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.

If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 1 (800) 955-8770.

/s/Robyn Katz

Robyn Katz, Esq.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP

Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801

Phone: (407) 674-1850

Fax: (321) 248-0420

Email: MRService@mccalla.com

Fla. Bar No.: 146803 25-11836FL January 22, 29, 2026 26-00017G

DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS are Defendants. The Clerk of the Court, Tom Bexley will sell to the highest bidder for cash at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com/ on February 27, 2026 at 11:00:00 AM EST the following described real property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 38, BLOCK 10, OF PALM COAST MAP OF BELLE TERRE, SECTION 11, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 6, PAGES 59 THROUGH 67, INCLUSIVE, AS AMENDED BY INSTRUMENT RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 35, PAGE 528, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES

ACT: If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 14th day of January, 2026. ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP

Attorney for Plaintiff 401 W. Linton Blvd., Suite 202-B Delray Beach, FL 33444 Telephone: 561-392-6391 Facsimile: 561-392-6965 By: /s/ John J. Cullaro

Digitally signed by John J. Cullaro

DN: CN=John J. Cullaro, E=Jcullaro@aldridgepite.com Reason: I am the author of this document

Location: Date: 2026.01.14 11:19:50-05’00’ Foxit PDF Editor Version: 13.1.7 FBN: 66699

Primary E-Mail: ServiceMail@aldridgepite.com 1221-15879B January 22, 29, 2026 26-00016G

SECOND INSERTION RE-NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2024 CA 000180 LOANDEPOT.COM, LLC Plaintiff(s), vs. DAVID G. LAIRD; et al., Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT, pursuant to the Order Granting Motion to Reschedule Foreclosure Sale entered on November 12, 2025 in the above-captioned action, the Clerk of Court, Tom Bexley, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash www.flagler.realforeclose.com in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 13th day of February, 2026 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure or order, to wit: LOT 20, BLOCK 166, BELLE TERRE - SECTION 35 PALM COAST PARK AT PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 11, PAGE 2, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property address: 16 Birchview Place, Palm Coast, FL 32137 Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. Pursuant to the Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.516, the above signed counsel for Plaintiff designates attorney@padgettlawgroup. com as its primary e-mail address for service, in the above styled matter, of all pleadings and documents required to be served on the parties. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. IF YOU ARE A PERSON WITH A DISABILITY WHO NEEDS AN ACCOMMODATION IN ORDER TO ACCESS COURT FACILITIES OR PARTICIPATE IN A COURT PROCEEDING, YOU ARE ENTITLED, AT NO COST TO YOU, TO THE PROVISION OF CERTAIN ASSISTANCE. TO REQUEST SUCH AN ACCOMMODATION, PLEASE CONTACT COURT ADMINISTRATION IN ADVANCE OF THE DATE THE SERVICE IS NEEDED: COURT ADMINISTRATION, 125 E. ORANGE AVE., STE. 300, DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32114, (386) 2576096. HEARING OR VOICE IMPAIRED, PLEASE CALL 711. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Steven G. Hurley PADGETT LAW GROUP STEVEN G. HURLEY, ESQ. Florida Bar # 99802 6267 Old Water Oak Road, Suite 203 Tallahassee, FL 32312 (850) 422-2520 (telephone) (850) 422-2567 (facsimile) attorney@padgettlawgroup.com

Attorney for Plaintiff TDP File No. 24-001682-1 January 22, 29, 2026 26-00018G

TRIBUTES

Cheryl Ann Clevenstine

September 22,1976 -January 2,2026

Cheryl Ann Clevenstine, age 49, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, in Encino, California. Cheryl was born on September 22,1976, in Youngstown, Ohio, the daughter of Rosetta Clevenstine and the late Malcom Clevenstine. She was a graduate of Canfield High School and went on to attend the University of Denver, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in film. Following her passion for creativity and the arts, Cheryl pursued her dreams by moving to California, where she began her career in the film industry. Cheryl lived life to the fullest and found joy in both the simple and extraordinary things in life. Independent and free-spirited, she embraced the world with kindness, creativity, and authenticity. She had a deep love for nature, music, and the arts. From a young age, Cheryl stood out for her spirit and individuality. Cheryl was known for her gentle heart and compassionate soul. She is lovingly remembered by her mother Rosetta Clevenstine of Palm Coast, Florida. She leaves her

beloved daughter Areil Rose Fabra, her three sisters Jacqueline Bucci of Palm Coast, Florida; Judy Clevenstine Rhea of Palm Coast, Florida; Christine Clevenstine Woods of St. Augustine,Florida; brother Tony Bucci of Poland, Ohio, and several nieces and nephews. Cheryl will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Cremation has taken place. There will be a service held January 30, 2026 at 11:00 am at Craig Funeral Home, 511 Old Kings Rd. S, Flagler Beach, FL 32136.

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