Ormond Beach Observer 04-18-24

CITY WATCH

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

OBHS seeks Hotel Ormond memorabilia

The Ormond Beach Historical Society is asking the public for donations of Hotel Ormond memorabilia.

According to the society’s newsletter, its team is working to update the exhibits at the Hotel Ormond Cupola, the last remaining structure of the historic building, which was demolished in 1992. The Historical Society would like to add or replace some items.

Specifically, the OBHS is seeking:

„ Two cabinets or dressers (maximum dimensions of 3 feet wide, 3 feet high and 18 inches deep)

„ One lectern or podium

„ One chair

„ Decorative items no larger than 8 inches by 12 inches

Have an item that you’d like to donate? The OBHS is asking you email a photo and its dimensions to office@ ormondhistory.org.

The OBHS asks that no items be delivered to the office, as space is limited.

“If your donation is accepted and placed in the Cupola, it will be identified,” OBHS stated. “Thanks for your generosity in helping us to preserve and share this wonderful piece of Ormond’s history.”

Plantation Oaks

moves

Over 400 homes will soon be constructed at Plantation Oaks in Ormond Beach.

The Ormond Beach Planning Board unanimously recommended approval for a final plat for Phase 1B of Fountain View, a 137-lot singlefamily subdivision within Plantation Oaks, at its meeting on Thursday, April 11. The board also recommended approval for three preliminary plats for Phases 1D, 1E and 1F of the subdivision, to be composed of 103, 110 and 97 single-family lots, respectively, for a total of 447 homes.

A preliminary plat for Phase 1C — composed of an additional 141 homes — was recently approved by the commission.

Plantation Oaks, according to a city staff report, is entitled to build a

total of 2,115 residential units, based on the National Gardens Development of Regional Impact.

Planning Board member Barry du Moulin expressed concerns about flooding.

Plantation Oaks developer and engineer Parker Mynchenberg said the property is not on a floodplain. Additionally, the property originally contained a golf course proposal, and when that was removed, more stormwater management was added. “So this project, unlike most of them that I designed that are right on the edge, we have probably three to four times the required stormwater treatment,” Mynchenberg said. “So this one, out of all the subdivisions that I do — and I do a lot of them — is the least flood prone.”

“It’s a project like this that will make all the difference for so many in our community.”

Ormond

Beach Mayor Bill Partington on new AdventHealth Daytona Beach surgical center. See Page 5A

Regarding response times, City Planning Director Steven Spraker said the city’s past fire chiefs have been involved in the site plan review committee. The subdivision, Spraker said, has been in the works since the mid-1980s.

Plantation Oaks is completely designed now, Mynchenberg said. In addition to Fountain View, the subdivisions part of the development includes Archer’s Mill and Bradford Lakes.

Mynchenberg expects to complete each phase of Fountain View in 10-month increments. He is aiming to complete Phase 1B, to be constructed by DR Horton, in August.

“So in about four years, it will be developed totally — this part of it,” Mynchenberg said.

Plantation Oaks has been completely designed now, according to its developer. Courtesy of the city of Ormond Beach

Developer denied, 5-0

Tomoka Oaks golf course rezoning unanimously denied by Ormond Beach Commission

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Tomoka Oaks abandoned golf course will remain a golf course, for now.

Ormond Beach’s City Commission unanimously upheld the city Planning Board’s 7-0 decision in January to deny the controversial Tomoka Oaks property a rezoning. All five commissioners at the April 16 meeting ultimately felt the 148 acres and the surrounding residential neighborhoods were best served without the high density an R-2 residential development zoning would add to the area.

Instead, the 147-acre property will stay a Planned Residential Development zoning.

“The PRD ... represents smart growth for our community,” Commissioner Susan Persis said.

The golf course is currently zoned a PRD. Triumph Oak of Ormond Beach I LLC, the property owner, was applying to change the zoning to R-2, “single family low density.” The applicant’s attorney, Karl Sanders, argued that the city had no reason beyond public opinion to deny the Triumph Oak zoning request.

Sanders argued that the commission not approving the zoning change would leave the applicant without a way forward for development; it would also leave the city open to a $40 million lawsuit.

“No one wants to do that,” he said, “which is why I implore you to follow what the law requires.”

FROM COMPROMISE

TO THREAT OF LAWSUIT

Sanders argued that without the R-2 zoning designation, the City Commission was leaving the property owners without any entitlements to move forward with developing their property.

“You have to assign something,” Sanders said. “You cannot leave someone in no man’s land.”

The golf course opened in 1962, remained in-use for almost six decades, and was listed with an R-2 zoning, according to April 16 meeting documents.

In 2006, the property was rezoned to a PRD to allow a previous property owner to build 35 townhomes and six condo buildings on 30 acres of the golf course. The development was intended to be a “low impact development,” the documents said, to preserve the “unique characteristics and historical connection” between the golf course and subdivision.

But then the recession hit, the development was never built, and the development order expired in 2014. The golf course closed in 2018.

Triumph Oaks purchased the property in 2021 with the land still zoned for a PRD. The owners first applied for a 272-single-family residential development order to replace the order that expired.

But the issue, Commissioner Travis Sargent said, was that in Triumph’s development order application there was no willingness to negotiate down on the number of homes.

“You didn’t hear the residents, you didn’t hear the planning board and you haven’t heard what the commissioners are saying now.”

LORI TOLLAND, Ormond Beach commissioner

Sargent said the developers repeatedly asked, “What can we do?” but made no moves to compromise when told the issue was the number of homes planned for the development.

“How did we start off with, ‘We want to listen to the residents,’ and now we’re under threats?” Sargent said.

In November 2023, the commission rejected the development order request and sent it back to the Planning Board for further review, but the applicant instead withdrew its application. Sanders argued that decision left the applicant with no choice but to pursue the R-2 zoning change.

Sanders said the R-2 zoning aligns with all of the city’s land development code and comprehensive plan’s requirements. He brought in his own expert planning witness, Mark Karet, planning director of Zev Cohen and Associates, to review the application.

When Sanders asked if Karet could think of a reason to deny the application, Karet said no.

Based on this application, Karet said, “There can’t be a legitimate purpose for denying a person the ability to develop their property.”

Sanders also submitted several handouts to the commissioners of earlier drafts of city planning staff’s reports and emails between Ormond Beach Planning Director Steven Spraker and City Attorney Randy Hayes. The emails and reports, Sanders said, showed staff were having difficulty finding a reason to deny to the zoning request.

The Observer was unable to obtain the documents in time for publication.

Commission members took offense to Sanders submitting the packets of information during the meeting, instead of ahead of time, allowing no time for the commission to read the information. They appreciated even less Sanders’ allusion to a

pricey lawsuit.

“I really do think it was totally inappropriate and really rude to supply documents tonight,” Commissioner Lori Tolland said. “And I don’t appreciate the convoluted threat, either.”

R-2 ZONING NO LONGER FITS

But the commission agreed with its Planning Board’s decision: The R-2 designation from years prior no longer fits with what exists in the area.

Many residents were concerned about how the additional traffic would strain the area, especially as the golf course only had one entrance, and the commissioners agreed.

“I don’t see this as being safe,” Persis said.

Persis also said a large development built under the R-2 designation would alter the characteristics of the neighboring communities. Tolland agreed, saying this is what everyone has told the developers all along.

“You didn’t hear the residents, you didn’t hear the planning board and you haven’t heard what the commissioners are saying now,” Tolland said.

The Tomoka Oaks Homeowners Association lawyer Dennis Bayer also made a presentation during the meeting under an intervener status. He argued the property has changed significantly since the last time it held the R-2 zoning.

“What you’re dealing with here is a golf course that was constructed at the same time as all the 340-some residences in that neighborhood,” Bayer said.

Bayer brought in his own witness, planner Tommy Harowski, with over 50 years of planning experience. Harowski submitted a study in advance of the April 16 meeting based on the almost 300-home development that was planned for Triumph Oaks’ development order application.

“It’s not automatic that rezoning to R-2 is mandatory or even maybe

“You have to assign something. You cannot leave someone in no man’s land.”

KARL SANDERS, attorney for the Triumph Oaks applicant

the most appropriate choice 60 years on,” Harowski said. “The facts have changed.”

He said the compatibility of the project depends not just on the surrounding properties’ zonings, but on the proposed development’s impact on the existing subdivisions.

“In summary, the proposed development creates a negative, intrusive impact in Tomoka Oaks,” Harowski said.

As far as Sanders’ argument that the city was leaving the developer without development entitlements, Bayer said, one just has to look at what the expectation of development was when Triumph Oaks bought the property.

“If their arguments are true that it has no entitlements on it, it had no entitlements when they bought it, either,” Bayer said.

FINDING THE ‘MAGIC NUMBER’ Ormond Beach Deputy Mayor Harold Briley said that, to him, it seems most residents are open to some form of development at the golf course, but the “magic number” hasn’t been found yet.

“I don’t think it’s not about ‘We’re not going to let you develop,’” Briley said.

A PRD, Briley said, does not prohibit development. Spraker said that designation still allows the developer to negotiate. Mayor Bill Partington said the original 2006 agreement suited the needs of the residents and the uniqueness of the property.

“It made sense on what is an exceptionally unique piece of property,” Partington said.

The PRD zoning made sense to protect both the city as a whole and the residents who live adjacent to the golf course, he said. Partington said he was convinced by the testimony that the PRD zoning was the best way to continue protecting the city’s comprehensive plan, land development code — and residents.

A path forward to developing the golf course, Spraker and Briley said, is going to need to find a compromise the residents and developers can agree on.

“I think the key point is finding that [number] where the applicant and the residents and then the city can live with,” Spraker said, “whatever that magic number is.”

Based on this application, “There can’t be a legitimate purpose for denying a person the ability to develop their property.”

MIKE KARET, Zev Cohen director of planning

Attorney for the Tomoka Oaks HOA, Dennis Bayer.

The Ormond Beach City Commission.

Ormond Beach and Tomoka Oaks residents stand and applaud the commission’s decision to deny the golf course rezoning request. Photo by Sierra Williams

Citizens for Ormond Beach updates residents on fuel terminal status

Dream Green Volusia and the Protect Volusia citizens group seek to keep community engaged in opposition of the project.

A failed moratorium vote. A site plan in the works. Residents ask, now what? On Feb. 13, Belvedere Terminals submitted a new concept plan for its proposed fuel terminal development at 874 Hull Road, an unincorporated area of the county near the city of Ormond Beach. Planning staff from Volusia County responded two weeks later with a 20-page document outlining concerns and questions they felt needed to be addressed prior to the site plan moving forward. To date, Belvedere Terminals has not responded.

Then, on March 15, five residents —representing Dream Green Volusia, Bear Creek Village and the Protect Volusia Facebook group — met with three county staff members to inquire about what the process will look like for Belvedere Terminals, and to voice concerns about the fuel terminal.

On Wednesday, April 10, three of those residents reported the results of that meeting during Citizens for Ormond Beach’s program at the library. The underlying message? It’s time to wait and see.

“The next step is really for Belvedere, the ball is in their court right now,” said Ormond Beach resident Elena Krafft, of Protect Volusia. “They have as long as they would like to have to respond back to those questions. So it could be a week, or it could be 10 years, according to the county — we have no clue whatsoever. That just makes it very frustrating for us to be in this limbo right now.”

What the county process looks likeThe updated concept plan submitted by Belvedere Terminals in February showed six proposed 40-foot-tall fuel tanks. The company began its pursuit to construct a fuel terminal at 874 Hull Road last summer, with initial reports stating the St. Petersburg-based company planned to build 16 storage tanks on the property. Residents, local officials and community business leaders have been opposing the project since late August 2023, citing safety, environmental and quality of life concerns.

In September 2023, Belvedere Terminals announced it planned to

invest $750 million in the state by construction 10 fuel terminals within the next five years; the first identified sites being in Jacksonville, Ft. Pierce and Ormond Beach. The company states that having fuel terminals in Florida will lower gas prices for consumers and offer a safer and dependable method for getting fuel into the state during storms.

One of the main issues pointed out by county staff regarding Belvedere Terminal’s concept plan is development within a portion of the 874 Hull Road property that is currently zoned A-2 “Rural Agriculture.”

County staff said in a letter to the company that Belvedere must either remove the industrial development on that portion of the property, or, rezone it to I-2 “Heavy Industrial.”

The city of Ormond Beach also responded to the conceptual plan submittal, reaffirming that the city — in its opposition to the construction of the fuel terminal — will not provide utilities, and asked for additional data to demonstrate that the proposed well by Belvedere Terminals will meet the required fire protection standards. It also questioned if the project can be built with a split zoning of I-2 and A-2.

The Observer reached out to Belvedere Terminals and inquired about future updates to its conceptual site plan, and a statement received by Chief Operating Officer Mike Benedetto did not outline a timeline for the company’s response to the city or county.

“We continue to work closely with the county and other community leaders but we have no announcement at this time,” Benedetto said.

If and when Belvedere Terminals respond, and the plan is approved to move forward, the next step would be a review by the county’s technical review committee. It would then progress to the Developmental Review Committee, who would approve or deny the project. An appeal could then be filed by a “affected person.”

“We have still not received the definition of an affected person since March 15,” Dream Green Volusia founder Suzanne Scheiber said.

An appeal would then go before the Volusia County Council for review.

A workshop on zoning districtsOn Tuesday, April 30, at 3 p.m., the Volusia County Council hold a workshop to discuss zoning code. Scheiber, Krafft and Daytona Beach resident Catherine Pante, who also spoke at the CFOB meeting, encouraged residents to attend the workshop.

Why is this workshop significant?

In December 2023, when the county initially refused to process Belvedere Terminals concept plan — which led to a lawsuit in January — the county did so based on direction from the County Council to place a pending moratorium as it reviewed uses in the I-2 zoning district. Though the council voted 5-2 to shoot down the moratorium in February, allowing the processing of Belvedere Terminals’ plan, the issue of the I-2 being a “catch-all” designation for all industrial uses remained.

The group of residents who met with county staff in March were alerted to the April 30 workshop.

“I think that’s really where they’re going to discuss this heavy industrial district zoning ad all the allowable uses,” Krafft said.

Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower, who attended CFOB’s meeting, confirmed the workshop was going to take place.

“We need to end this ‘catch-all’ phrase,” Brower said. “We need to change just one sentence, a couple words, so that anything for heavy industrial must go before the County Council and be approved by a special exception. That still doesn’t guarantee you it’s not going to happen, but it gives you a voice in your government.” Brower also criticized the failure of the moratorium. Only he and District 4 County Councilman Troy Kent — who represents Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea — voted in favor of it.

“Almost every one of you in this room I have seen in County Council meetings and you’re pushing, you’re doing your job,” Brower said. “The moratorium should have passed just based on your effort.”

State allocation for relocation?Brower said county staff reported it expects the fuel terminal — regardless of the site plan review process — to go before the County Council again in the future.

Volusia County is waiting to see if it will receive a $10 million allocation from the state budget for infrastructure. Brower said county staff told him those were funds that could be used to relocate the fuel terminal.

“If it came down to the council voting to give them $10 million to move — not to improve Harmony [Avenue] or any of the roads around there — but to move to another location, would you vote for it?” Brower asked the attendees of the CFOB meeting. They clapped in response.

The county, Brower reported, offered two alternate locations to Belvedere Terminals for the construction of the fuel farm: One in Flagler County, near a junkyard, and a one in Oak Hill, on the border of the Canaveral National Seashore. Brower said he expects Belvedere Terminals is waiting on the governor to sign the budget to proceed with its fuel farm project.

“Once he signs that, and Belvedere knows that the money is really there, then they will suddenly get serious about looking for another location,” Brower said.

What’s next?As residents wait, Dream Green Volusia and Protect Volusia are asking they submit letters of opposition to them as the groups plan to compile them and submit them altogether to the County Council.

“We’ve been trying to figure out a way to keep the community engaged, because a lot of people have just gone back to living their lives and they’re not really engaged,” Scheiber said. “They don’t really know what’s going on.”

Dream Green Volusia will have a booth at the city of Ormond Beach’s Earth Day celebration at the Environmental Discovery Center, to be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 20. Letters can also be sent to dreamgreenvolusia@gmail.com.

Catherine Pante, Dream Green Volusia founder Suzanne Scheiber and Elena Krafft speak during the Citizens for Ormond Beach meeting on Wednesday, April 10. Pante and Krafft both form part of the Protect Volusia Facebook group. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Medical Parkway.

AdventHealth surgical patients who don’t require overnight hospital stays now have access to a $45.7 million surgery center.

On Thursday, April 11, AdventHealth Daytona Beach celebrated the grand opening of its three-story surgery center and medical office building, located on the hospital campus at 103 Memorial Medical Parkway. A joint venture with Meadows & Ohly, a health care real estate services firm, AdventHealth began constructing the building in February 2023. The facility is part of a partnership with Cardiology Physicians Group and North Florida Surgeons.

“This $45.7 million investment is an investment that increases the community’s access to the high quality compassionate care that one should expect from AdventHealth,” said Audrey Gregory, executive vice president and CEO of the AdventHealth East Florida Division.

Spanning 60,000 square feet, the facility houses cardiac rehabilitation and imaging services, a surgical clinic dedicated to North Florida Surgeons, a 20,000-squarefoot cardiology clinic for Cardiology Physicians Group and a 20,000-square-foot ambulatory surgery center. The architect on the project was

HuntonBrady, and the general contractor was Brasfield & Gorrie.

Gregory said that AdventHealth’s East Florida Division is home to seven hospitals totaling almost 1,400 hospital beds for patients in Volusia, Flagler and Lake counties. Last year, AdventHealth added over 60 physicians and advanced practitioners to Volusia County facilities, specializing in gastroenterology, general surgery, oncology, urology and neurology, Gregory said.

“This is an incredible representation of that, expressed right here locally in Daytona Beach, of how we’re growing to serve the growing needs of our community and access to health care close to home,” said David Weis, president and CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach and AdventHealth operations in the East Volusia market. When AdventHealth broke ground on the facility last

year, Weis said the vision was to have all the needed services under one roof, particularly in cardiac and women’s services. He’s proud that this has been accomplished, he said.

Weis also recognized the support for the project from local elected officials — both from Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach.

“We see ourselves as really honored to serve both the communities of Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach,” Weis said. “... It’s taken this whole village to provide this much needed access point to health care here on this campus.”

Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington said that inside the surgical center is a “hub of innovation and health care excellence, where lives are healed, bringing hope and the promise of a brighter tomorrow for so many.”

“People are on a quest for the best health care possible care that is close to home,

and near loved ones,” Partington said. “We as elected officials hear about this need all the time, and it’s a project like this that will make all the difference for so many in our community.”

Daytona Beach City Commissioner and Vice Mayor Paula Reed commented on the population growth in Volusia County and how AdventHealth is responding to it.

“As our population grows, so does AdventHealth as our partner,” Reed said.

While construction started last year, the building is years in the making. Dr. Mark White of North Florida Surgeons met with Weis five years ago to speak about the building. “We’re very excited to bring

state-of-the-art surgical care to this community in a safe, cost- effective, friendly place. ... The patients and their families will really enjoy having their procedure done there,” White said.

The facility is symbolic of the evolution of medicine, said Dr. Dinesh Arab of Cardiology Physicians Group. The concept has been in the works for 10 years he said, and thanks to technological advances, patients can now receive minimally invasive procedures without a hospital stay.

“Hopefully this is a place where patients come in quickly, get their procedures, get home quickly, heal quickly at home,” Arab said.

Joined by AdventHealth leadership, government officials and local business leaders, Audrey Gregory, executive vice president and CEO of the AdventHealth East Florida Division, cuts the ribbon during the grand opening celebration of the AdventHealth Surgery Center and Medical Office Building in Daytona Beach on Thursday, April 11. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Guilty of murder, sentenced to life

OBSERVER STAFF

The suspect in the Circle-K shooting was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, on April 15.

After a five-day trial, a Flagler County jury convicted Marcus Chamblin of firstdegree murder in connection with the killing of Deon Jenkins, in October 2019. Chamblin was also convicted of attempted second-degree murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle, a Flagler County Sheriff’s Office press release said. Flagler County Judge Terrance Perkins sentenced Chamblin to life immediately

after the trial for the firstdegree murder charge, plus an additional 30 years for the attempted murder charge and a consecutive 15 years for shooting into an occupied vehicle. The trial for Chamblin’s co-defendant, Derrius Bauer is set for this summer.

The shooting took place 3:30 a.m. on Oct. 19, 2019, when Jenkins and another victim were sitting in their car at the Circle K Gas Station at Belle Terre Boulevard and Palm Coast Parkway, according to FCSO’s original press release on the case. Chamblin and Bauer were arrested as the suspects who fired sixteen rounds in less than four second at the victims.

The other passenger got away and called 911, but Jenkins died of his injuries at the scene. Chamblin and Bauer fled the scene and, after a 15-month investigation, the FCSO and other law enforcement agencies tracked the two to California.

“I’m thankful the jury connected all the evidence, so justice was served for the victim and his family. Now this killer will have the rest of his life behind bars to regret his decision to take the life of another young man,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “In 2021, after a 15-month-long investigation, we got him and his accomplice off the streets.”

Second phase of Gardenside homes

The Hunter’s Ridge development, if approved by Flagler BOCC, will have 89 lots on 39 acres.

The Flagler County Planning and Development Board has approved a preliminary plat for the second phase of the Gardenside development in the Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact known.

The Planning Board approved unanimously approved the preliminary plat for the development at its April 9 meeting. The plat will next go before the Flagler County Commission for approval at the board’s June

17 meeting.

Gardenside is located on Airport Road, west of the Hunter’s Ridge Boulevard roundabout and extension.

Phase 1 of the development, which is underway, will have 76 single-family homes on 29 acres. Phase 2 of Gardenside, if approved by the commission, will add an additional 89 homes on 39 acres on the north side of Phase 1. Phase 2 will have two driveway connection points, one on the west connecting to Iris Branch Boulevard and another on the east connecting to the eventual northward extension of Hunters Ridge Boulevard. The single-family lots will range from 9,302 square feet at the largest, to 4,400 square feet at the smallest, the meeting documents said.

The Flagler County Commission approved the final step in Gardenside’s Phase 1

in February.

Two other developments are planned for Ormond Station as well, called Woodside and Amberwoods. These development applications were approved by the Flagler County Commission last August.

Amberwoods, on 14 acres, would add 40 single-family homes on Airport Road, just east of Hunter’s Ridge Boulevard. Woodside, on 21 acres of land on the south side of Airport Road and west of Hunter’s Ridge Boulevard, could have between six to 10 single-family homes per acre, according to its site plan.

All three developments fall under the purview of Hunter’s Ridge’s Community Development District, called Ormond Station. The Hunter’s Ridge development is owned by US Capital Alliance LLC.

COPS CORNER

APRIL 8

DOUBLE TROUBLE

2:14 a.m. — 6100 block of State Road 100, Flagler County Trespass. A Palm Coast man attempted to hide in a bathroom stall after trespassing at two separate gas stations he had already been trespassed from.

Sheriff’s Office deputies received a call about a man trespassing at a gas station while they were out on patrol, according to an arrest report. The suspect had been trespassed from the gas station in October.

By the time the two deputies arrived at the gas station, the suspect had left, but the deputies received another call about the same suspect trespassing at another, nearby gas station. The suspect had also been trespassed from that store in April 2023.

When the deputies arrived at the new store, the suspect was hiding in the bathroom stall. The deputies paced him under arrest and took him to jail.

APRIL 10

NEED FOR CAFFEINE

2:34 p.m. — 300 block of North Nova Road, Ormond Beach Trespass. An Ormond Beach man was arrested after he

BRIEFS

60-year-old Palm Coast motorcyclist killed in crash at Matanzas Woods Parkway intersection

A 60-year-old Palm Coast man was killed after a sedan collided with the front of his motorcycle on April 10.

The crash happened at Matanzas Woods and Belle Terre Parkways at around 9:45 p.m., according to a Florida Highway Patrol report. The sedan was driving west on Matanzas Woods Parkway while the motorcyclist was driving east.

The sedan tried to make a left turn onto Belle Terre Parkway and hit the front of the motorcycle, throwing the 60-year-old from the motorcycle. Both the motorcyclist and the sedan driver — a 73-year-old man from Lakeland, Florida — were taken to AdventHealth.

The 73-year-old sustained only minor injuries but the motorcyclist died of his injuries at the hospital.

Palm Coast motorcyclist critically injured in St. Johns County crash

A 39-year-old Palm Coast motorcyclist was flown to Orange Park Medical Center after he rear-ended an SUV on Interstate 95.

The crash happened on April 14 at 11:10 p.m. The motorcyclist was critically injured while the two Ormond Beach passengers in the SUV — the driver, a 24-year-old man, and a 16-year-old boy passenger — were uninjured in the crash, according to a Florida Highway Patrol report.

Both the motorcyclist and SUV were traveling south on I-95 near mile marker 308 when the crash happened. The SUV was ahead of the motorcyclist when the 39-year-old began to drive between the left and center lanes, cutting through traffic, the report said.

As he was trying to maneuver between the SUV and another vehicle, the motorcyclist hit the rear of the SUV, lost control and was thrown from the motorcycle. The man

trespassed at a shopping center’s coffee shop. The police officers were called because the suspect had previously been trespassed from the shop’s attached shopping center, just from incidents that day, according to an arrest record. The suspect had walking into multiple businesses in the shopping center that day, “acting erratic,” and was trespassed from the whole shopping center.

When the officers arrived, the suspect was sitting on a stool at the coffee bar, waiting. He was arrested and taken to the county jail.

SECOND HELPINGS

6:06 p.m. — first block of Garden Street, Palm Coast Shoplifting. A Palm Coast man stole twice from the same store, in the same day, changing his shirt in between thefts to disguise himself.

The suspect walked into a home improvement store through the garden station and loaded up a cart with $481 worth of merchandise, an arrest report said. He then walked back into the garden section and began pulling multiple plastic bags from the store out of his pocket, loading the unpaid-for items into the bags and then leaving the store.

A loss prevention officer called the Sheriff’s Office, watching the suspect load the stolen items into his truck. He then watched the suspect go back inside the store, wearing

was airlifted to to the Orange Park Medical Center.

Flagler County bus driver awarded 2023 Driver of the Year

Flagler County on Wednesday welcomed the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged for its annual bus inspection and to present driver Richard Briggs with the 2023 Driver of the Year Award for which he was named winner last Fall.

“It’s a great honor to present this to you,” said Flagler County Board of County Commissioners Chair Andy Dance, as he handed Briggs the engraved glass award. Briggs, who has worked for Flagler County about seven years, had transported more than 31,300 passengers more than 281,000 miles without a complaint or accident at the time of his nomination.

Afterward, Dance and Commissioner Dave Sullivan – who serves as chair on the Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board – went on a ride along with Briggs and Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinator Summer Jones, as well as Palm Coast resident Jill Dempsey who is the official disadvantaged rider for the board and happened to turn 58 on April 10.

“I am legally blind, and this is my service dog, Sir Enoch, who is both a guide dog and a medical alert dog,” Dempsey said during the trip to pick up passengers who had scheduled rides through Flagler County Public Transportation. “I check for things that could be a hazard – something that could catch somebody’s cane, for example. I also use the service myself a minimum of two times a week.”

The bus stopped at the home of Yolanda Perez to bring her to her doctor’s appointment. “Well, isn’t this a surprise,” said Perez, as she entered the nearly full bus. “I have lived here (Palm Coast) for 27 years. I’ve been a passenger for 15 years. He (Briggs) is always a perfect gentleman.” Perez and Sullivan struck up a conversation about the county’s paratransit bus system – a demand response, shared ride, door-to-door service (there is no fixed route). It focuses on the elderly as well as people with disabilities, and transportation

a different shirt, and steal another $800 of merchandise, the report said.

The loss prevention officer detained the suspect until a deputy arrived. When the deputy did arrive, the suspect admitted that he stole the items and that it was done “out of stupidity.”

APRIL 12

A RUNNER AND A TRACK STAR

10:36 p.m. — 200 block of North Yonge Street

Disturbing peace, resist arrest. A woman in the midst of an argument with her boyfriend ran from police, jumped a fence and dodged two police tasers before giving herself up.

The suspect, 38, said she had run from her boyfriend who had hit her multiple times in the head, an arrest report said, but the boyfriend and his mother both said they saw her hit her own head repeatedly against a shed to get out of an argument the two were having before taking off.

The suspect ran from their home, through traffic, and then through a skate rink’s crowded parking lot, where her boyfriend and police caught up to her. The police officers arrested the woman for disturbing the peace and resisting arrest.

At the county jail, the officers discovered the woman had given them a false name and had an arrest warrant for her out of a neighboring town.

disadvantaged. “You hear people talk about a regular (fixed route) bus service, but I wouldn’t be able to walk all that distance to Belle Terre (a likely route should it happen one day) to get to a bus stop,” Perez said. “It’s just too far.” Sullivan was empathetic. “What we have may not be perfect,” he said. “It does help a lot of people who might not have another option.” Costs within Flagler County are $2 per ride. Medical trips to Volusia, St. Johns, Jacksonville, and Gainesville available on select days at set roundtrip rates.

Flagler Sheriff’s Office earns 4 Star Employer designation from

VETS Indexes

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has earned the designation of VETS Indexes 4 Star Employer in the 2024 VETS Indexes Employer Awards. The award recognizes the organization’s commitment to recruiting, hiring, retaining, developing, and supporting veterans and the militaryconnected community. The agency has a strong relationship with local veterans’ groups including American Legion Post 115 (of which Sheriff Rick Staly is an auxiliary member), AMVETS Post 113, DAV Chapter 86, and VFW Post 8696. In addition, Sheriff Staly and members of FCSO regularly attend community events to support veterans, such as the Flagler Veteran’s Day Parade and Veteran’s Day Recognition at Flagler Auditorium.

“Whether it’s through our hiring practices or when we’re out supporting our community, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is

Richard Briggs won the 2023 Driver of the Year award. Courtesy of Flagler County

BUSINESS OBSERVER

Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill to open new location in Ormond-by-the-Sea

Johnny Lulgjuraj purchased the former Betty’s A1A Cafe building in 2021.

It’s been three years in the making, but Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill is almost ready to open its new location in Ormond-by-the-Sea.

Restaurant owner Johnny Lulgjuraj bought the former Betty’s A1A Cafe building at 1900 Ocean Shore Blvd. in March 2021. Lulgjuraj, who opened the original Oceanside location in Flagler Beach in 2010 with his brother Tony, thought renovating the 3,000-square-foot beachside building would be a quick venture. “Initially, we walked through the place and it looked pretty good, but every stage of the building as you went back toward the kitchen, it got worse and worse,” Lulgjuraj said. It was challenge after challenge to get permits to get the building, which was built in 1970, up to date,

BIZ BUZZ

NOVEL TEA BOOK SHOP TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY

Novel Tea Book Shop in Ormond Beach will participate in the 11th anniversary of Independent Bookstore Day. Novel Tea Book Shop will be hosting its first Independent Bookstore Day on April 27, featuring 12 local authors who will be showcasing their books and will be available to chat with customers as they shop, according to a press release. There will also be a selfie photo booth, themed for book lovers, a “Spring Blind Date with a Book,” and

said Lulgjuraj. He even wrote a letter to the Volusia County Council to ask for help. The fact that this took place on the heels of the pandemic and a time when construction material costs were rising also posed hurdles. But three years later, the restaurant is in the final stages of inspection. Lulgjuraj said he hopes to be open by the beginning of May.

“We put our heart and soul into this place,” he said. “Many neighbors have opened the door, peered through here. They’ve been patiently waiting. A lot of them already dine in Flagler and they know that we are locals.”

Lulgjuraj is a second-generation restaurant owner. His father owned and operated Manny’s Pizza in Flagler Beach for over 15 years. He also holds a personal tie to his new building in Ormond-by-the-Sea, as his mother used to work for Marco’s restaurant in that location in the 1990s.

Lulgjuraj said that when he and his brother decided to expand their business, and saw that the former Betty’s A1A building was for sale, it felt like a good fit. It was similar to

a raffle for a basket catered to lovers of books. The book shop, located at 150 Tomoka Ave. inside The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“Novel Tea Book Shop is so excited to participate in our first Independent Bookstore Day,” owner Stephanie Gonter said. “This community has supported us so much in our first year of business and we can’t wait to return the favor with a super fun experience for everyone. This day is truly a thank you to our amazing community. Come out and meet our local authors, buy their books, and support indie.”

Novel Tea Book Shop was founded in April 2023 as a pop-up bookstore. Independent Bookstore Day (Indie Bookstore Day) was established in 2013 to promote, celebrate, and

their building in Flagler Beach, both in size and its oceanfront location.

“We’re called Oceanside, so obviously we want to be on the side of the ocean, and there’s not very many properties that are like this,” Lulgjuraj said. “So when we saw it, we felt the need to.”

Lulgjuraj drives down A1A regularly, as his kids attend St. Brendan Catholic School. He saw a need for a restaurant like Oceanside.

The new restaurant, like the Flagler location, will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offer a similar menu, including its Yuengling beerbattered fish and chips.

As he goes through the hiring process for restaurant staff, he said he’s seeing a shift of more people returning to the service industry, particularly those who may have worked in a different sector during the pandemic. He’s held two job fairs for the new restaurant, and about 40 people have applied.

Oceanside, Lulgjuraj said, has been welcomed by the Ormond-bythe-Sea community. It’s a shame its taken so long to open, he said, but

highlight the value of the Independent bookstore community, the press release states. The day has been observed on the last Saturday of April every year since 2013. This year, there are over 900 stores participating across the country.

HALIFAX HEALTH RAISES THE FLAG FOR ORGAN DONATION

Halifax Health hosted a breakfast in honor of organ recipients on Friday, April 5, followed by a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate Donate Life Month. The event brought together recipients, donor families, community members, and advocates to celebrate the gift of life and raise awareness about the

he’s satisfied with the renovation — the new stainless steel kitchen, dining area and — “I’ll tell you what — anything great

importance of organ donation.

The day began with the first Donate Life breakfast reception, served in recognition of organ recipients and their families. Heartfelt conversations filled the room as attendees shared their personal stories of hope, resilience, and gratitude. The breakfast provided an opportunity for recipients to connect with one another and express their appreciation for the life-saving gifts they have received. Following the breakfast, attendees gathered outside for the annual flagraising ceremony. Against a backdrop of blue skies and gentle breezes, the Donate Life flag was raised to honor the sacrifices of organ donors, and to signify the second lease on life given to our organ recipients. Speakers shared inspiring words of encouragement and

takes time and this place is the most significant place,” Lulgjuraj said. “I’d put it up against anywhere.”

gratitude, highlighting the profound impact of organ donation on individuals, families, and communities.

“Today, we stand united in celebration of the remarkable individuals who have received the gift of life through organ donation,” said Shannon Starin, Manager at Halifax Health – Center for Transplant Services. “Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the life-saving potential of organ donation and the extraordinary generosity of donors and their families.”

In 2021 there were over 3,000 organ transplants and there are over 90,000 people currently waiting for an organ transplant.

For more information on organ donation go to DonateLifeFlorida.org/ Register

Johnny Lulgjuraj said he and his team have put their “hearts and souls” into renovating the new Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill in Ormond-by-the-Sea. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Canal-based home tops sales list in Flagler

Ahouse in Hammock Dunes was the top real estate transaction for Feb. 22-28 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. Janet Paulikas, of Petoskey, Michigan, sold 16 Via Marino to John and Margaret Smith, of Palm Coast, for $1,500,000. Built in 2004, the house is 4,181 square feet, a 3/3.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, and fireplace.

Condos Louis and Carole Grosso, of Easley, South Carolina, sold 35 Captains Walk to Paul and Yvonne Bick, as trustees, for $305,000. Built in 1990, the 2/2.5 condo has 1,565 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $339,900.

The Andrew Andresen Trust, of Palm Coast, sold 45 Riverview Bend South, Unit 1942, to Michelle and Gregory Beardslee, of Palm Coast, for $550,000. Built in 2006, the 3/3 condo has 2,007 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $550,000.

Kenneth and Linda Doerr, of Palm Coast, sold 65 Riverview Bend South, Unit 1724, to Albert Bianchi, of Palm Coast, for $340,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,586 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $187,500.

FLAGLER BEACH

and has a fireplace and 1,639 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $325,000.

Country Club Cove Christopher and Mindee Fillmore, of Palm Coast, sold 47 Cimmaron Drive to Bunh Diep, of Brooklyn, New York, for $520,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,384 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $455,000.

Indian TrailsJose and Kathryn Vazquez, of Palm Coast, sold 103 Barrington Drive to Joseph Baldwin, Eleanor Baldwin and Anita Bertha, of Palm Coast, for $320,000.

House in Triton Beach tops sales list in Ormond

Ahouse in Triton Beach was the top real estate transaction for March 3-9 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. Kathleen Elliott Pruett, of Ormond Beach, sold 435 Ocean Shore Blvd. to Michael Leanzo, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, for $2,350,000. Built in 1991, the house is a 3/3 and has 2 half baths and 3,456 square feet.

$465,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 4/2.5 and has 2,636 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $262,500.

Pineland Richard and Courtney Hand, of Canandaigua, New York, sold 318 Sandoval Drive to Peggy jane David, of Ormond Beach, for $425,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,334 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $429,900.

Plantation Bay

A company named 100 Palm Harbor Parkway, LLC, of Palm Coast, sold 100 Palm Harbor Parkway, Unit 15, to James and Bonnie Echmalian, of Sterling, Massachusetts, for $389,000. Built in 2001, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,455 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $234,000.

Cedar Island Gregory and Deborah Phillips, of Ormond Beach, sold 2539 Palm Ave. to Troy and Penny Berry, of Mount Lookout, West Virginia, for $750,000. Built in 2004, the 3/2.5 house has a pool, a fireplace and 2,567 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $395,000.

Sugar Mill Plantation Gary and Donna Sheffield, of Bunnell, sold 1 Wilderness Run to Richard and Mary Klumpp, as trustees, for $895,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,760 square feet.

PALM COAST

Belle Terre

Glen Joseph Burr, a personal representative, sold 43 Primrose Lane to Sharyn and Terry Harbin, of Palm Coast, for $320,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2

Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,705 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $210,000.

Lake Forest

Craig Hunter Jones and Yvette Escobar Jones, of Palm Coast, sold 75 Club House Drive to Steven and Catherine Baptist, as trustees, for $340,000.

Built in 1983, the 2/2 house has 1,265 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $279,900.

Palm Coast Plantation Michael and Pamela Blackmon, of Palm Coast, sold 21 North Lakewalk Drive to Nicholas and Kristen Nicole Bongiovanni, of Palm Coast, for $625,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,207 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $425,000.

Pine Lakes INB Fund 1 LLC, of Orlando, sold 32 White Hurst Lane to Jesus and Evelyn Robalino, of Palm Coast, for $389,400. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,903 square feet.

Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.

BEACH

Fleming Fitch

James Henry and Charlene Johnson Henry, of Tallahassee, sold 1741 Evergreen St. to Fabiola Liberato Mondragon and Oscar Dominguez Garcia, of Ormond Beach, for $300,000. Built in 1992, the 3/2 house has 1,265 square feet. It sold in 2007 for $168,000.

Forest Quest

Vincent and Sandra Lupinacci, of West Milford, N.J., sold 158 Hamlet Trace to Rhonda Dramstad, a trustee, for $670,000. Built in 2005, the 4/3 house has 3,056 square feet, with a fireplace and pool. It sold in 2017 for $375,000.

Knollwood Estates

Marie Cortez, of Port Orange, sold 155 Lynwood Lane to Brian and Maria Liberman, of Ormond Beach, for $730,000. Built in 1973, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub and 2,449 square feet. It sold in 1998 for $225,000.

Millards Dahomey

Brian Kaetz, a trustee, sold 207 Like Oak Ave. to Teresa Marie Cunningham and Alexander Cunningham, of Surfside Beach, California, for $207,000. Built in 1959, the 2/1 house has 780 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $165,000.

Not in a subdivision

Sylviane Barton Pontier, of Ormond Beach, sold 667 Ocean Shore Blvd. to Antonio Carvalho Jr. and Rosana Carvalho, of Riverside, Connecticut, for $2,600,000.

Built in 2000, the house is a 4/4.5 and has a fireplace and 4,507 square feet.

Ocean Village

Paul David Muffoleto, of Ormond Beach, sold 694 Flamingo Drive, Unit A, to Whitney and Travis Richardson, of Ormond Beach, for $232,500.

Built in 1947, the 2/2 house has 1,158 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $170,000.

Ormond Terrace

Heather Barak, of Ormond Beach, sold 280 Warwick Ave. to Carl Stanley Tews and Louvenia Tyler Tews, of Ormond Beach, for

Ronald Vedova, of Ormond Beach, sold 1209 Castlehawk Way to James Russell Williams and Sheila Gail Williams, of Ormond Beach, for $1,025,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 5/3.5, is 3,514 square feet and has a pool.

Trails Lunachies LLC, of Ormond Beach, sold 50 Wildwood Trail to Jesica Lovatt, a trustee, for $257,500. Built in 1985, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,382 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $122,500.

Trails North Forty

Samantha Renae Davis, of Ormond Beach, sold 148 Deer Lake Circle to Christopher Michael Malkus, of Ormond Beach, for $336,200. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,762 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $328,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Sunny Shore

Michele Harper, of Port Orange, sold 58 Tropical Drive to Alexander Davakis, of Ormond Beach, for $280,000. Built in 1957, the 2/1 house has 994 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $61,500.

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

PALM COAST ORMOND BEACH

MY VIEW

Legalizing marijuana would not be good for Florida

The ballot initiative was not a grassroots movement but a blunt force attack on our legislative process by the for-profit cannabis industry.

CLEE GUEST WRITER

The dangers of cannabis should be taken seriouslyWhen Saturday Night Live was funny, the news segment commented on the suspension of Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps for testing posi-

YOUR TOWN

Asbury Shorts USA to return to MOAS for 43rd Short Film Concert

Asbury Shorts USA, New York City’s longest running short film exhibition and touring show, will present its 43rd Short Film Concert at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach for a sixth consecutive year on Thursday, May 2. The first film will be shown at 7 p.m. This showcase of short films, recommended for ages 16 and above, according to a press release.

Asbury Shorts USA combines classic short films from past years with current festival hits, providing an opportunity for audiences to see international films on a real cinema screen rather than on YouTube, smart phones or computers. Past tour stops for Asbury Shorts USA have included: The Aero Theatre in Los Angeles, CA; The Charleston Music Hall in South Carolina, Guild Hall in East Hampton, N.Y.; Summer Stage in Central Park, N.Y.; The Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan, N.J.; Royal Festival Hall in London, U.K. and Alamo Draft House in Dallas, Texas to name a few. MOAS is located at 352 S. Nova Road in Daytona Beach. For all show information and advance sale tickets, visit: https://www.moas.org, or call 386-255-0285. Admission costs $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. The museum doors will open at 6 p.m. for a cash bar. Auditorium doors open at 6:30 p.m.

tive for cannabis. “If someone has a weed problem, the last thing you do is give them time off with nothing to do.”

Comedian Ron White was arrested when his plane was searched, and they found one gram of marijuana. He asked his audience, “Do you know how small that amount is? One gram means that I’m out of weed!”

For decades, there has been a lighthearted attitude toward cannabis, even within the law enforcement community. Its distinctive odor provided numerous investigative opportunities and some entertaining encounters.

Voices for decriminalizing drug use, possession, sale and delivery, and trafficking claim the War on Drugs is a failed racist policy that caused the mass incarceration of political prisoners. How can you say that during a period where the

greatest risk factor of death for otherwise healthy (and young) people is drug overdoses? We are approaching a grim total where the annual number of overdose deaths is more than double the American military death toll during the entire Vietnam War.

It’s no secret that cannabis is linked to psychosis. Numerous studies published by the National Institutes of Health make the connection. A Yale study says the same. Marijuana and paranoid schizophrenia mix like fire and gasoline.

The Daily Mail references a study finding that high potency cannabis is driving suicide in American young people: “Cannabis may be driving a rising number of Americans to the brink of suicide, a study suggests. Researchers who analyzed national poison center data found that the number of people who had marijuana in their system when

they tried to kill themselves has risen 17 percent every year since 2009.”

Also: “Exactly half of the adults with both depression and a cannabis use disorder — defined as problematic cannabis use — were revealed to have suicidal thoughts.”

Amendment 3 is hitting the ballot to legalize recreational cannabis. The current process to get an issue in front of voters is so tough that there were millions of dollars spent just to get it this far. This isn’t a grassroots movement. It is a financial blunt force attack on our legislative process by the for-profit cannabis industry. It’s a move that will cost lives and make our streets less safe.

Roland Clee lives in Flagler Beach. He served a major Florida police department for more than 26 years and now writes the American Peace Officer newsletter.

13th annual Celtic Festival to feature The Piper Jones Band

Join Ormond Beach MainStreet for a Spring Fling with

annual

flair,

Festival returns to Rockefeller Gardens and Fortunato Park. Clans, pipers, and nationally sanctioned highland games athletes will gather on April 20 and 21 for two days of folk music, food and fun from the seven Celtic Nations and beyond. The festival occupies two Beachside Ormond parks along the Halifax River and fills them with five music stages, Highland Games, clans and Celtic societies from throughout the region as well as a host of other activities. The weekend attracts more than 10,000 locals and visitors each year. Advance tickets are $12 each day for adults or $15 at the gate.

Children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets are available online at bit.ly/buyticketsoms. There is plenty of free parking, including free off-site parking with a free shuttle service to allow everyone access to the Festival activities.

Among the 25 musical performers are The Piper Jones Band and two Celtic dance troupes, The Daytona Pipes and Drum and the city of Mt. Dora Pipers will lead daily parades by all the attending Clans and fill the air with the sound of bagpipes.

The festival also features a newly expanded Kid’s Zone, with a bouncy castle a bounce obstacle course, face painting and glitter tattoos, a Pop Up Ponies & Petting Pals zoo area, putt putt and more.

The annual dog parade will take place on Sunday. All breeds are welcome! Just bring a donation or food for Halifax Humane Society and your dog will be entered in the parade. Register with our parade sponsor, NautiPets, or at the New World Celts booth in the Clan Village. The Highland Games are sanctioned by the North American Scottish Games Athletics organization, so its competitors rack up points toward the ultimate goal of competing in Scotland. Male and female athletes from around the region are expected to attend the Games and demonstrate their strength by throwing the caber, the hammer or the stone put, both Saturday and Sunday.

An Ormond Beach community service officer rescued five baby opossums on Wednesday,

In 2021,

$250,000 contributed to the fund.

“The purpose of this fund was to continue Gloria’s legacy and to keep funding her work for generations to come. Thanks to the support of so many in our community, this fund will generate tens of thousands of dollars every year to ensure that the work that Gloria cherished continues forever,” said Frank.

To contribute, visit https://bit.ly/ someonecaresfund or call 386-4055745.

DAR gives awards, scholarships

The Capt. James Ormond Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recognized three members at its last meeting: Alice Zimbler was awarded her 10-year certificate and Karen Knowles and Denise Sikes were honored for collectively volunteering over 1,000 hours to the chapter in 2023. The chapter also awarded scholarships to Felicia Wiggins and Melissa Pandy, from the Daytona College Fresh Start Program.

ROLAND

Nancy and Lowell Lohman have contributed $20,000 to the Someone Cares: An Endowment in Honor of Gloria and Ray Max, pushing the fund over $500,000 raised,

Pictured in 2017, from left to right are Marvin Miller, Gloria Max (who died in 2021), Nancy Lohman, and Lowell Lohman. This was a check presentation to the Jewish Federation Jerry Doliner Food Bank, a passion of Gloria and Ray Max.

Gloria was an icon whose impact in this community was immeasurable. Her leadership and role as a mentor lives on, as she continues to inspire Larry Frank and others to champion the Someone Cares Fund initiative.” said Nancy Lohman.

following Gloria’s passing, local philanthropists Andrea and Larry Frank created Someone Cares and promised to match the first

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Heart & sole

After 37 years, Ira and Brian Freedman moved their business to 298 S. Nova Rd., Suite A in Ormond Beach.

MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“We are the original recyclers,” Ira Freedman said.

Freedman and his son, Brian, are cobblers. Together they run the Ira & Son Shoe Repair. Recently, they relocated from the Rivergate Plaza on Granada Boulevard to 298 S. Nova Rd., Suite A, in Ormond Beach where they held their grand opening on Monday, April 15.

As they helped customers and organized the new space during the event, friends and family stopped by to congratulate the pair.

“A very good soft opening,” Ira said. “We’ve done lots of business today already. We filled up the rack with new orders.”

After 37 years at the Rivergate location, they learned that they had 30 days to move their shop.

Ira said things happen for a reason. He was born in the Year of the Dragon and it happens to be the same Chinese zodiac year now. He said this is his year.

“It’s a good move in the Year of the Dragon,” he said. “It works perfectly. I actually thought I was going to live out the rest of my life in that shop-

ping center but we weren’t part of the master plan.”

The square footage at the current location is double that of the previous space. Brian said the new plaza is nicer, up to code and current specifications.

“This is something I’ve always wanted to do with the shop but I probably wouldn’t have done it as quickly if it weren’t for that other plaza kind of pushing us out,” he said.

“It’s a blessing in disguise.”

Ten years ago, Brian took over the day-to-day operations of the business. He said his father laid the groundwork for the shop and nurtured business relationships within the community. Ira was the first owner of a shoe repair shop nationwide to utilize a computer system to print service tickets. He has received multiple awards for his products and systems.

“As far as old shoemakers go, he has been one of the more innovative ones in the bunch,” Brian said. “He laid all that (out) with getting all of the awards and establishing the business in the community. I got to, pretty much, take it over and keep the ship going and build on top of it.”

It seemed natural that one of the Freedman children would step into Ira’s shoes and learn the trade. In 1921, Ira’s grandfather, Sam Freedman, opened the family’s original store in Detroit and named it Hot Sam’s. His father Bob “Sonny” Freedman followed in his foot -

steps. At the age of 12, Ira began working in the shop every Saturday to save money for his bar mitzvah.

“You have to start with a good work ethic,” he said. “Once you have a good work ethic you can do anything you want.”

He went to Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, then continued his trajectory toward running the family business by attending a shoe repair trade school in Queens, New York. At the age of 35 years old, he began to learn the fine nuances of the business and eventually took it over.

After a difficult divorce, he sold the business and moved to Ormond Beach where his parents had a house on Ocean Shore Boulevard. He said he came for the beach and probably stayed for the motorcycles.

In the early 1980s, Ira and his father went to the Orange Park Mall. They stopped to watch a shoe repair shop that was set inside a wall. There were six men working there and they were making $7 sales — one right after another. Ira said his dad elbowed him and told him he could do that — keep that register ringing. With his dad’s help, the Ira & Son Shoe Repair opened two years later. Brian was born in Ormond Beach, attended Tomoka Elementary, Ormond Beach Middle School, then Mainland High School. He attended the University of Central Florida for two years where he did not find a field

of study that resonated with him. In his early 2020s, he returned to learn how to run the family business. Brian said he hopes to be running the business for 37 more years. The community keeps them busy with standard repairs. He wants to tap into customizing and eventually, capture some of the internet market.

“With Ormond’s community, our volume is already very high,” he said. “We stay very busy so it’s one of those things where I’d like to do an online store but it’s not like I don’t have anything to do here.”

Ormond Beach resident Gloria Altavilla has been taking her shoes to the shop for about 30 years. She has approximately 70 ball-heeled shoes that Ira has repaired. “All of the shoes that I’ve got have at least had his attention one time,” she said. “I’ve taken them places and they won’t touch them. Nobody else would touch these shoes.”

Cobbler Gabriel Herman assists the Freedmans with the workload. They currently offer heel and sole repair, leather restoration, customization and a variety of specialty services. Even though his son has taken over the business, Ira said he is never going to stop doing the work.

“I know what’s going to happen to me if I stop going,” Ira said. “If you rest, you rust. So I’m going to keep going. I’m going to die with my boots on.”

“I know what’s going to happen to me if I stop going. If you rest, you rust. So I’m going to keep going. I’m going to die with my boots on.”

IRA FREEDMAN, referring to working at the shop

Brian Freedman (left), Weston Ramirez (Ira’s grandson), Hunter Ramirez (Ira’s son-in-law), Sara Ramirez (Ira’s daughter) and Ira Freedman stand in the lobby at the new location.

34-year-old Brian Freedman demonstrates using a patching machine. He has participated in martial arts since he was 5 years old. He used to sew the students’ patches onto their uniforms. Photos by Michele Meyers

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

NATURE WALKS WITH URBAN

FORESTER CAROL

When: 10-11 a.m.

Where: Linear Park, 31 Greenway Court, Palm Coast

Details: This walk will feature a snake presentation by a Central Florida Zoo expert. Free. Register at parksandrec.fun.

TURTLE TALK: A SEA TURTLE’S JOURNEY

When: 1-2 p.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach

Details: Entrance into the park costs $5 per vehicle.

MIMI’S ORIGINAL ART GALLERY EVENT

When: 5-7 p.m.

Where: Mimi’s Original Art, 1385 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach

Details: Live music by Jay Regan, artwork by 35 artists and food by Big Tuna’s Beach Bar and Grill.

ORMOND BEACH AREA

DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEETING

When 6:30 p.m. for check-in and socializing, 7 p.m. for the meeting

Where: 56 North Halifax Drive

Details: Like minded nonmembers are welcome to attend as guests. Club information can be found at ormondbeachdems.org.

‘ALMOST, MAINE’: MATANZAS

HIGH SCHOOL

When 7 p.m. April 18; and Saturday, April 20

Where: Pirate Theater at Matanzas High School, 3535 Pirate Nation

Details: Matanzas Theater Company caps its 2023-2024 season with the student-directed drama, by playwright John Cariani. The play comprises nine short stories allowing the senior directing students the opportunity to guide their acting peers. Senior Ayden Koppman serves as Associate Producer for the show, and the senior directors are Emanuela Hartman, Ayden Koppman, Winston Sejda, Parker

Soltesz, and Nick Znascko. The prologue and epilogue of the show are directed by junior Kasandra Baker as part of her award-winning student directing project for Florida State Thespians. Tickets are available for $10 at the door or at pirates32137. booktix.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

YOGA OUTDOORS

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond Beach

Details: Free outdoor beginner level yoga class by Kim Latford. Chairs available. Mats recommended. Space is limited. Call 386-615-7081.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

FLAGLER SPORTFISHING CLUB

28TH-ANNUAL SPRING CLASSIC

TOURNAMENT

When: 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Bing’s Landing, 5900 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Palm Coast

Details: Benefiting Disabled American Veterans. The tournament check-out will take place 7-8 a.m. under the 100 bridge at the South Pavilion of Bing’s Landing. Entry fee is $75 per angler. Visit flaglersportfishingclub.com.

SPRING BIRD WALKS

When: 8 a.m.

Where: Environmental Discovery Center, 801 Division Ave., Ormond Beach

Details: Master Naturalist Joan Tague, of the Halifax River Audubon, will lead participants on a casual bird walk along the trails of Central Park. Bring water. Walking shoes and sunscreen recommended. Free.

HISTORY OF THE CAPE AND SPACE PROGRAM

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Anderson-Price Memorial Building, 42 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: Museum of Arts and Sciences Curator of Science Seth Mayo will speak about Florida’s space program and the history of Cape Canaveral in this free program hosted by the Ormond Beach Historical Society.

EARTH DAY AT THE EDC

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond

Beach

Details: The city is presenting an Earth Day celebration featuring environmental exhibitors, native plant vendors and guest presentations. There will also be guided nature walks, games and crafts. The tree giveaway starts at 9 a.m.

13TH ANNUAL ORMOND BEACH CELTIC FESTIVAL

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

and Sunday, April 20-21

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Ormond MainStreet’s Celtic Festival is returning to Ormond’s two downtown parks along the Halifax River. There will be live music, Highland Games, clans and Celtic societies. Admission costs $12 each day for adults in advance; $15 at the festival gate. Children 12 and under are free. Two-day passes are available for $18. Free parking. Visit ormondbeachmainstreet.com.

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Washington Oaks Garden

State Park, 6400 N. Ocean Shore

Blvd., Palm Coast

Details: Celebrate Earth Day with Washington Oaks. DJ, live entertainment, arts and crafts, vendors, kids activities, environmental education, plant sales. Entrance into the park costs $5 per car.

FLAGLER VEGFEST

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell

Details: Join Jacksonville Business Connections for the Flagler VegFest, an event committed to educating the community about plant-based lifestyles. Free event and parking. There will be vegan vendors, food, as well as music, a bounce house and face painting. This event takes place alongside the Flagler Spring Market. Contact jaxbizconnections@ gmail.com to volunteer, speak or organize demonstrations. To be a vendor or sponsor, visit https://bit. ly/3U6Plq9.

FLAGLER SPRING MARKET

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds,

150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell

Details: Attend the Flagler Spring Market, presented by 4-H and FFA Livestock. Features several local vendors, food, a bounce house and face painting. Free admission and parking.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

ENGLISH TEA PARTY ON THE PATIO

When: 2-4 p.m.

Where: Gallery of Local Art, 108 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach Details: Join the Gallery of Local Art for a tea party on the patio. There will be raffles, games and a jewelry fashion show. Dress up in a fancy hat for a contest. Tickets cost $20 per person or $100 for a table of six in advance. Tickets cost $25 at the door, but there is a limited number available. Visit galleryoflocalart.com.

‘MOZARTIANA — MUSIC OF MOZART’

When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church, 1035 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: The Daytona Solisti Classical Players will present “Mozartiana — Music of Mozart,” including Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-flat Major, KV 271 “Jeunehomme.” A $15 donation is requested at the door. For more information, visit daytonasolisti.com or call 386-562-5423.

TUESDAY, APRIL 23

FLORIDA FEDERATION OF GARDEN CLUB DISTRICT VI SPRING MEETING

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Palmetto Club in Daytona Beach, 1000 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach

Details: Tillandsia Garden Club is hosting the Florida Federation of Garden Club District VI Spring Meeting. FFGC District VI is made up of 16 local garden clubs ranging from Palm Coast to Melbourne. The event theme is “Creating a Buzz in the Garden” with Doug McGinnis, a local veteran beekeeper, as presenter. Attendees must register in advance. Call Jane Eddy, 386-453-5934.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

FRIENDS OF THE ORMOND BEACH LIBRARY APRIL PROGRAM

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Library Auditorium, 30 S. Beach St. Details: Officer Danielle Henderson and Officer Andy Rossi of the Ormond Beach Police Department will present a free

Safety Program

“Protect

will

on personal safety, home security and fraud prevention. Attendees may ask questions and discuss safety and crime in our neighborhood.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

2024 HOUSING FAIR & FINANCIAL CLINIC

When: 10 a.m.-2p.m.

Where: Allen Chapel AME Church, 580 George W. Engram Blvd. Daytona Beach

Details: HUD counselors, realtors, lenders, insurance agents, home inspectors and title companies will be available. Contact Lydia Gregg at MFHP 386-274-4441 ext 304 or email at lydia.gregg@mfhp.org. Attendees should reserve their spot.

THURSDAY, MAY 2-5

PALM COAST SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL

When: Hours vary, first performances begin 5 p.m. May 2-4, and 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 5. Where: Daytona State College Palm Coast Amphitheater, 545 Colbert Lane

Details: Over 40 songwriters are expected to perform with over 150 hits. Single Day (reserved and general admission) tickets are available for purchase, along with a very limited number of Four Day Reserved Seat Passes. Between May 3-5, the Festival will host other shows earlier in the day at local restaurants. Visit the Palm Coast Songwriters Festival website at www.palmcoastsongwritersfestival.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN

When: 8 a.m.

Where: Ormond Beach City Hall

Details: The 1-mile run will start and finish in the breezeway at Ormond Beach City Hall. The event will also include a Touch-A-Truck event, a DJ and food vendors. Contact Sgt. Michael Garner for more vendor information at pdoutreach@OrmondBeach.org 386-559-0622.

New PCUMC: 25 years in the making

‘You have built tomorrow’s church today,’ mayor said.

BRIAN MCMILLAN

PUBLISHER

Psalm 127 inspired architect

Ned Wright as he labored on Palm Coast United Methodist Church’s new building, at 6500 Belle Terre Parkway.

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain,” Wright recited at the church’s grand opening celebration April 13.

The finished product standing behind him was evidence in Wright’s mind that divine help had been provided.

Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin also was a guest at the celebration, saying to the crowd, “There is no doubt that you have built tomorrow’s church today.”

He recognized key figures in the realization of the plans: Pastor Dr. Kevin James, Howard Holley, Larry Torino, Dan Maxwell and Jim Gary.

YOUR TOWN

The Buddy Taylor Middle School SeaPerch teams

The church bought the property in 1999, the same year the city was incorporated, Alfin said. “For 25 years, your outreach has brought us stability and substance,” he said. Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore

swept first, second and third place at the Greater Jacksonville SeaPerch underwater robotics competition April 13.

The winning team of Nathan Cabrera and Sophia Costa earned an invitation to the International SeaPerch Competition to be held at the University of Maryland in May. Bradley Roe, Luke Chrzanowski and Lucas Strunk

praised James’ leadership. She has known the pastor for many years and said, “Who you see on Sunday in this building is who he is out in the community.” She said the sanctuary stands as a testament to church’s commitment to serve others.

placed second, and Gabriella Burkhalter and Christopher Jones placed third.

SeaPerch is a program designed to teach students how to construct remotely operated vehicles to work underwater.

BTMS teacher Tracy Jones is the adviser for the school’s SeaPerch program.

The Buddy Taylor Middle School SeaPerch Teams. Courtesy photo

Imagine School’s Electro-Lions head to international championship

Imagine School at Town Center hosted one of its first pep rallies as a rousing sendoff as its Electro-Lions robotics club heads to an international championship competition in Houston, Texas. The Electro-Lions team is competing in a youth robotics competition called FIRST — “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology” — LEGO League. The competition will be held April 17-20, and the robotics team and its two coaches left for Texas on April 15. The team wouldn’t be able to go though, if it weren’t for the support of its school. The Electro-Lions had one month to raise the $20,000 for the trip to Texas, and multiple other clubs at the school donated for their trip, said Kristen Cook, Electro-Lions coach and Imagine school teacher. “We’ve had so much support from our school. This is the most support we’ve ever had,” Cook said. “So, this season, it really felt like the the whole school community gathered around us to get us there.” The FIRST LEGO League World Championship is a competition that challenges teams to design, build, and program robots to perform complex tasks, an Imagine School press release said.

This year, Cook said, the challenge is called “Masterpiece,” and focuses on using technology within hobbies. After several surveys, the Lions chose to work with the topics of mental health and video games. Using an EEG — a medical device that tracks brain waves — the Lions developed a project that would alert gamers to high stress levels while they played.

The kids even ran experiments by having people play video games while wearing the EEG machine and studied the data, Cook said.

“We’ve actually been able to put this experiment into play,” Cook said. “It is so cool the stuff that they’ve done.”

Celebration of Eagle Arts

TRIBUTES

Andrew Dante Romer

December 2, 1953 - April 10, 2024

Andrew Dante Romer, was born in Falls Church, Virginia, December 2, 1953. Andy passed away in St. Augustine, Florida April 10, 2024. He was only 70 years old.

Andy is preceded in death by his mother Ilan (Dick) Romer and father Thomas Romer. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Frances L Molla, his children Jennifer Gregg, husband Ben, Amanda Gosz, granddaughter Madison Gosz, brothers Lantz Romer, Bob Romer, wife Tillie, David Romer, wife Teresa, Shaun Romer and wife Belinda.

Andy attended Lawrence County High School in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee and college at Columbia State.

After serving in the Air Force, he began a career in the rail industry where he worked in operations for both the Union Pacific Railroad and Port Railroad Authority in Houston, Texas. After working 35 years, he retired to Palm Coast, Florida.

Andy had two hobbies, fishing and golf. Like to fish but loved to play golf. He played on some of the best and most famous courses in the world. His favorite course was St. Andrews, Scotland. Andy was a principled man of integri-

TRIBUTES

Mario Petrella

April 24, 1937 - March 23, 2024

Mario Petrella passed away on March 23, 2024. He was born in Danbury Ct. on April 24, 1937 to Antonio and Liberata Petrella. On May 25, 1963, he married Barbara Tomasini. They moved to Palm Coast in 1997.

Mario is survived by his daughter, Lauren and grandchildren, Morgan and Jordan.

Mass will be held at Santa Maria Del Mar on April 26 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to st. Jude’s children’s hospital or the American cancer society.

TRIBUTES

JoAnn H. Summa

January 2, 1942 - April 2, 2024

JoAnn H. Summa, 82, of Palm Coast Florida, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Staten Island, NY, to the late Thomas and Anna Terranova. She was preceded in death by her husband John Summa. She is survived by her six children: John, Lenny, Thomas (Kelly), Stella (Ethan), Joseph and Paul (Danielle); her loving sister, Marie; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and innumerable friends. You would be hard-pressed to find someone who, upon meeting her, did not consider themselves part of her extended family. She had a gift for making everyone feel special and loved, and in most cases, well fed.

She grew up, married and raised her family in Staten Island, NY. She moved to Marathon, NY, in the late ‘80s, before relocating to Florida in 1994. She was a graduate of Curtis High School in Staten Island, where she made strong friendships that have lasted more than seven decades. Her most cherished role was that of mother, and later grandmother, when she was at her best surrounded by a loud house full of her six children and, most often, all their friends. She actively supported all their sports and school endeavors, taking on roles of PTA president, Football mom, and many other roles, defying the fact that there were really only 24 hours in a day. In addition, she spent most of her working years in the healthcare industry on both the administrative and patient care areas. Throughout her life, she has been focused on the care of others, whether they be her children or grandchildren, her friends or just someone who was lucky enough to pass through her life. She made friends wherever she went with whoever sat near her on a plane, train, bus or at a Bingo table.

ty and a man of God. He was witty and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed dearly.

There will be a Celebration of Andy’s Life on Monday, April 22, 2024, 3:00 pm at Parkview Church, 5435 Belle Terre Pkwy, Palm Coast, Fl.

Additional Services will be held in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee at Ethridge Church of Christ, May 30, 2024, at 11:00 am.

The family deeply appreciates your support during this difficult time and asks that you make contributions to Mayo Cancer Unit in lieu of flowers at mayocl.in/49HfkZ8. Arrangements are made in the trust and care of CraigFlagler Palms Funeral Home.

Even strangers who met her for the first time in Publix or at church felt like they knew her as local Palm Coast Ford TV commercials made her somewhat of a local celebrity and highlighted her cherished role as a mother. In her most recent years, she treasured her time playing bingo, attending her church, and her weekly outings with her “Golden Girls” Alice, Joanne and Fran.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday May 30, 2024 in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton CatholicChurch, 4600 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast, FL 32164. The family will receive friends for visitation prior to Mass, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the church memorial room. The family suggests, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in JoAnn’s honor to the Stuart F. Meyer Hospice House in Palm Coast, FL via: AdventHealth Hospice Care East Florida Foundation, 770 Granada Blvd, Suite 304, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 or online at bit.ly/4cUsi8U

The family of Mrs. Summa have entrusted her arrangements to Clymer Funeral Home & Cremations, 39 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast, FL 32137.

Pastor Kevin James and Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin distribute souvenir ribbon pieces to Isabella Calloway, Jonah Alford and Adalyn Summerlot. Photo by Brian McMillan

Buddy Taylor teams dominate at SeaPerch

Buddy Taylor Middle School art teachers Jennifer Brooks (sixth grade) and Megan

Kisner (seventh and eighth grade) hosted the Celebration of the Eagle Arts spring art show on April 12 in the cafeteria. “Our goal is to create a

platform that brings the community and our students together in a creative way,” Brooks said.

brent@

Imagine School at Town Center’s Electro-Lions robotics club will be competing at the international championship competition on April 17-20. Photo by Sierra Williams

Buddy Taylor Middle School student-artists pose with art teachers Jennifer Brooks and Megan Kisner. Photo by Brent Woronoff

SPORTS

Victory dance

Mainland holds off Seabreeze to win district flag football championship

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mainland quarterback Brielle Jackson picked up the district championship trophy and swung it like a dance partner.

After celebrating with her teammates, she walked over to Seabreeze coach Todd Barnes and gave him a big hug.

“Your were on fire,” said Barnes after the Bucs defeated the Sandcrabs 13-7 to win the District 11-1A flag football title on April 11 at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex.

“I started with you,” said Jackson, a junior, who played for Seabreeze the past two seasons before transferring to Mainland.

“You played really good,” Barnes told her. “Keep doing what you did tonight, looking them off, because that works.”

With the district championship, Jackson and her teammates got another chance to show what they can do. The Bucs (9-4) will travel to No. 1 seed Wildwood on Wednesday, April 17, for a Region 3-1A quarterfinal game.

“This is really special, because this is my first year here and we got a district championship,” Jackson said.

Last year, Mainland advanced to the Final Four for the first time in

Furey of the Pirates

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

With a large ice pack wrapped around his knee and a smile plastered on his face, Matanzas senior midfielder

Zach Furey recounted his winning goal against Flagler Palm Coast.

“I’d like to think that our season was a success. I don’t think one game defines our season. I think the team and players coming together and bonding, I think that more defines us.”

MATT MASSEY, FPC coach

program history, but the Bucs did not win district. This year, a playoff berth was on the line. With the loss, Seabreeze (12-6) missed the playoffs by one spot as the ninth-ranked team in the region.

“This is how it should be. We’ve had so many years of playing against them to get to championships,” Mainland coach Ethan Simpson said, while holding his seven-month old son, Owen, after the game.

“It always goes down to the wire,” Simpson said. “It was just an exciting game and we knew going into it they were going to be a good team. They have really good coaches, good players, and it’s a rivalry, so it’s always a tough game.”

The Bucs scored both of their touchdowns during a four-minute span in the second quarter. Kiera Williams ran in a short touchdown, and Kam Troutman caught an extrapoint pass from Jackson.

Jackson then connected with Williams on a touchdown pass to put

“I saw FPC turned around, not fully paying attention,” Furey said. “I took the ball, ran down the field and scored, because I love catching my fast breaks.”

Furey scored with 4:49 left and the Pirates held the Bulldogs scoreless the rest of the way to win 8-7 in a District 3-2A quarterfinal game on Friday, April 12, at the Bulldogs’ stadium.

“I knew I had the ball in my stick, and the ref gave me a green light and I just went,” Furey said.

Matanzas, the seventh seed, won its first district tournament game in three years — the first since coach Adam Frys took over the program prior to the 2022 season.

Furey’s game-winner was disputed. The referees conferred before ruling the ball had crossed the goal line. The game was physical between the two rivals with numerous penalties called throughout. Matanzas scored four of its goals with an extra man.

“We were able to finish our opportunities, which has been the key for us,” Frys said. “We don’t score a lot six on six, but when we get that extra man, our unit is pretty deadly. Whoever makes less mistakes normally wins. So we were able to just make a few less mistakes than they did today.”

Furey found himself on the ground a lot, including immediately after the game when he was pushed and he hurt his knee.

“I tried to stop my fall, and then I bent my knee inward,” he said. “ I’ll definitely be OK. It feels great, beating FPC in a playoff game, sending them home.”

“It was unfortunate that that happened at the end,” FPC first-year coach Matt Massey said. “Sometimes the tempers get flaring in a rivalry like this. When it happens, we have to address it and nip it in the bud.”

The Pirates’ season ended three days later with a 20-3 loss at thirdseeded Ocala Forest in a district semifinal.

Both coaches viewed their seasons a success. The Pirates finished with a 7-9 record, their most wins since 2019. Frys took over a program that was in danger of folding three years ago, but they’ve steadily improved. In the district win, players repre -

Mainland up 13-0 with 47 seconds left in the half. Seabreeze, which beat Atlantic and Deltona by a combined 13-0 score in its first two district tournament games, had trouble moving the ball against Mainland until the fourth quarter.

Seabreeze’s Morgan Long intercepted two passes in the quarter, the second one following an interception by Mainland’s Kaitlin Barber. The Sandcrabs drove down the field and scored with 1:49 left on Caya Asbille’s touchdown pass to Sarah Randolph. Kylie Watson caught the extra-point pass. But time ran out on the Sandcrabs as the Bucs’ defense held in the final minute to secure the victory.

“It got pretty close. It was kind of scary,” Williams said. “But when you have such great teammates that you know you can trust and love, nobody plays better than the Buc family, and that’s where the heart and the soul comes from.”

It was the second straight year that the Sandcrabs missed the playoffs by one spot.

Barnes said they were making mental mistakes early in the game.

“We started off a little slow and we were behind the eight-ball,” Barnes said. “But we saw some things opening up a little bit and we started getting first downs and making some drives.”

Williams and Clinique Maddox each had two sacks for the Bucs. Williams caught seven passes for 72 yards and rushed for 25 yards. Jackson passed for 230 yards.

“For her coming out here and playing against her old team, it was special, not just for her but for all of us,” Williams said. “We had played against her before and we knew how she played. But it’s different with somebody new coming into your family, and you got to adjust to everybody. But we all just work really hard.”

senting all four grade levels contributed.

“Our juniors dominated the game.

We had freshmen on the field at the end of the game, so it’s all of these grade levels,” Frys said. “These juniors have been with me since I started — three years of hard work. We worked during the summer, we worked during the fall, we worked during the winter and we worked for today.” FPC, the district’s second seed, ended its season with a 9-3 record. Massey was hired just six weeks before the season and the Bulldogs had a late start with a squad that had lost 14 seniors from its 2023 team.

“I’d like to think that our season was a success,” Massey said. “I don’t think one game defines our season. I think the team and players coming together and bonding, I think that more defines us.”

The game was close throughout with Matanzas taking a 4-3 lead at the half, and then FPC scoring three quick goals in the first minute and a half of the third quarter to take a 6-4 lead.

“Right away, they were just scoring and scoring and we just kept our composure and came right back,” Furey said. The game went back and forth. Matanzas answered with three straight goals with Vincent Ferrugiaro giving the Pirates a 7-6 lead late in the third quarter. FPC’s Grant Winkler tied the score at 7-7 with 8:25 left in the game.

“It was a great game. It was a heavyweight fight,” Massey, said. “They just edged us out there towards the end.”

Ferrugiaro scored three goals for Matanzas. Brandon Page and Jonathan Santiago scored two goals apiece.

Furey had four assists in addition to the winning goal.

“Being the quarterback, being the leader, being everything for our team — that’s what he did today,” Frys said of the senior.

Winkler scored three goals for FPC, while seniors Trenton Ellis and Brandon Calidonio each scored one goal. Bulldogs’ leading scorer Jordan Gales scored two goals to end his senior season with 45 goals and 17 assists. He finished his FPC career with 92 goals.

Gales scored both of his goals early in the second half. The rest of the game, Pirates kept him wrapped up.

“That was the focus of our game plan this week, make someone else beat us,” Frys said. “He’s a great player. We wanted to make it as hard as possible for him to get the ball and once he got the ball, make it as hard as possible for him to get to the goal.”

Massey said he was proud of the way his team fought.

“Matanzas has a great coach and a great program,” Massey said.

“Unfortunately, this is not the way we saw our season playing out. But hats off to them and hats off to Coach Frys for doing a good job.”

Matanzas’ Zach Furey (5) falls to the ground after a hit. Photos by Brent Woronoff

Seabreeze’s Kylie Watson runs downfield after making a catch.

The Bucs celebrate their District 11-1A flag football championship after defeating Seabreeze 13-7 on April 11 at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex. Photos by Brent Woronoff

FPC defender James Payne (25) closes in on Matanzas middie Brandon Page.

Matanzas edges Flager Palm Coast 8-7 for its first boys lacrosse district tournament win in three years as tempers flare.

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After one season with the Sandcrabs, Davis will become defensive coordinator at Camden High under former Mainland coach.

coordinator at

under Roland in

left Mainland

the

of February to take

in Georgia, Davis said he felt

Sandcrabs would probably benefit from players leaving the Bucs. Instead, Roland contacted Davis and asked if he would be interested in joining his staff at Camden County. Davis said he decided to make the move because, while it may not be a promotion in title, it is a promotion in pay, benefits and resources.

“I’m getting an increase in pay and going to be on a national stage with Camden County High School,” Davis said. “All of those are positives for me. I’ll be closer to my kids who stay in South Carolina. I’ll be three hours away instead of five hours.”

Davis played linebacker at Seabreeze and at South Carolina State University. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, he remained in South Carolina where he taught and coached football at three high schools before moving back to

Ormond Beach in 2021, when he joined Roland’s staff.

Davis has two children who he will be able to see more often — 12-year-old son Leelan and younger daughter Zaleeah. Davis said he is looking forward to coaching with Roland again.

“The whole atmosphere that we brought to Mainland, Travis wants to bring to Camden High School and a little bit more,” he said. “I’m excited because I can still be coach Davis — leadership council and all that good stuff. I can still do that and continue to learn and grow within the sport. It will be the Travis and Davis show again.”

Seabreeze athletic director Brad Montgomery told the Observer on April 11 that the Sandcrabs have received about 20 applications for the vacant coaching position and they will begin interviewing candidates next week.

Seabreeze coach Lester Davis talks to his players and their parents after the “Beast Come Out” at Night weightlifting event at Seabreeze High School on July 27, 2023. File photo by Michele Meyers

Indira Alvarez, Au.D., F-AAA

Heather Curry, H.A.S

Mainland lifter favored to win title

Elijah Walker, a 335-pound senior, has worked his way back from knee surgery.

BRENT

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mainland High School’s Elijah Walker probably would have won a state weightlifting championship last year if the Bucs had been eligible to compete.

Mainland re-instituted its weightlifting program last season after the school dropped the program 18 years ago, coach Chris Fricke said. But the Bucs were considered a club team and were ineligible to compete in FHSAA postseason meets.

Walker, a 6-foot-4, 335 offensive lineman who has signed to play football at Alabama State, might have won the unlimited title by more than 50 pounds.

This year the senior is favored to stand on the top step of the podium at the Class 2A state championships on Saturday, April 20, in Lakeland. He’s listed as a 10-pound

favorite in the traditional competition based on his 715-pound regional total. But with first place clinched, he stopped bench pressing after his first lift of 405 pounds. At districts the week before, he benched 430 pounds and clean-and-jerked 310 for a 740 total.

His bench press is way up this year, but after tearing his MCL and meniscus in Mainland’s blue and gold spring scrimmage last May, his clean and jerk has been way down.

He underwent surgery on June 6, sat out all of summer and missed the first three games of the football season.

“I came back and I was not even able to clean and jerk 135,” he said. “I was out for nine weeks, and I could only bench. That’s why my bench is so strong now. But doing physical therapy every single day, pushing myself out of my comfort zone, nights of pain and just suffering and just stretching and getting my knee back right, it got me to where I am today.”

If Walker wins the championship, he will become the Bucs’ first unlimited champ since Wilbert Kendrick in 1987. Walker has a good chance of topping Kendrick’s 735-pound total. But he’s not taking anything for granted.

“It’s like a football game,” he said. “It can turn South at any moment.You could hit one lift and then the other lifts are just complete misses, so you just got to stay humble.”

Walker played football for Mainland as a freshman but transferred to Spruce Creek for his sophomore year after Bucs coach Scott Wilson stepped down. Walker joined the weightlifting team at Creek and learned how to clean and jerk. He also filled out his enormous frame.

Seeing that the Bucs had a

STATE QUALIFIERS

MATANZAS

199: Cole Hash (635 traditional, 515 Olympic, seeded fourth in both; won state championship last year).

119: Maison Leanard (260 Olympic; 320 traditional).

129: Jaden Sao (410 traditional; 340 Olympic).

FPC

119: Cody Strawser (370 traditional)

169: Nick Groth (580 traditional, seeded third; 545 Olympic, seeded first)

169: Dylan Bennett (460 Olympic)

MAINLAND

Unl. Elijah Walker (415, traditional, seeded first).

good football coach in Travis Roland, and wanting to play football with his friends again, Walker transferred back to Mainland for his junior year. That year, Fricke began teaching at the school. He and then-defensive coordinator Lester Davis wondered, how does a school with such a good football team not have a weightlifting program?

Walker returned to Mainland to play football, but he found he liked competitive weightlifting just as much.

“He’s always been one of those people that pushed himself,” Fricke said. “Even when we were a club he was bent on winning a state championship.”

Walker already has a state championship ring with the Bucs as a football player. Now he hopes to be a double state champ.

FHSAA honors Gilvary

SIDE LINES

OBSERVER STAFF

Flagler Palm Coast track and cross country athlete Jack Gilvary has been selected to the 2024 Florida High School Athletic Association Florida Dairy Farmers Academic AllState Team.

Gilvary is one of 24 seniors in the state — 12 girls and 12 boys — to receive the honor. The student athletes will be recognized at a June 3 banquet where they will each receive a $1,700 scholarship and a commemorative medallion, according to the FHSAA website. One female and one male student will be named Ronald N. Davis Scholar-Athletes of the Year and receive an additional $4,600 scholarship. To be eligible, students must be a graduating senior with

a minimum 3.5 unweighted grade point average and earned a minimum of two varsity letters in at least two different sports during their junior and senior year. The awarding committee evaluated the nominees based on their athletic participation, academic record, extracurricular activities, community service and an essay, according to the website article.

Gilvary has a 4.0 GPA, ranks second in FPC’s senior class of 625 students, and is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor.

He serves as vice president of Future Problem Solvers and is the co-founder of Project SPARK, which works with Title I Elementary Schools to expand STEM opportunities. Gilvary has accumulated about 300 service hours with Parkview Baptist Church, Habitat for Humanity and Imagine School at Town Center. He is the son of John and Laura Gilvary. He plans to study sports management in college.

Rizzo has top GPA

Flagler Palm Coast graduate Caroline Rizzo, a golfer at Mars Hill University, has been named the 2024 South Atlantic Conference Women’s Golf Elite 23 Winner. This award honors the student-athlete with the top cumulative grade-point average (based on a minimum of 48 credit hours) in each of the league’s 23 team championship sports. Rizzo, a junior, holds a 3.989 grade point average while studying political science and pre-law.

FPC advances to Five Star final

Flagler Palm Coast’s baseball team will play for the Five Star Conference championship on Thursday, Arpil 18. The Bulldogs won their sixth in a row on April 16 with a 5-3 win over Spruce Creek in a semifinal. Kevin Maya pitched a complete game victory. The Bulldogs (11-10) beat Seabreeze for the third time in less than a week on April 13 with a 3-0 win in the Five Star quarterfinals. Ayden Normandin pitched six shutout innings for FPC.

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Alabama State football signee

Elijah Walker is the top seed in the unlimited weight class heading into the Class 2A state weightlifting championships.

Golfer Caroline Rizzo has a 3.989 GPA at Mars Hill University. Courtesy photo