Ormond Beach Observer 05-16-24

ORMOND BEACH

and Heidi Beyer, of Ormond Beach, made fast friends with Donna and Ira Birenbaum at the Beer Fest. Photo by Suzanne McCarthy

CITY WATCH

FDOT to hold I-95 U.S. 1 interchange public meeting

The Florida Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting regarding its plans for the I-95 and U.S. 1 interchange at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22.

According to a press release, the project is meant to enhance safety and operations at the interchange and along U.S. 1 between Plantation Oaks Boulevard/ Broadway Avenue and Destination Daytona Lane.

FDOT is pursuing a “diverging diamond” redesign for the 1960s interchange, which was identified as one of 20 projects in the governor’s $4 billion Moving Florida Forward infrastructure initiative last year. In September 2023, FDOT Secretary Jared Purdue announced the project would start construction in the fall of 2027, and that it was estimated to cost $340 million. The May 22 meeting will be held both in person and virtually. To attend in person, go to The Chapel at 1805 U.S. 1 anytime between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to view a looping presentation and speak with project team members. To attend virtually, register at https://bit.ly/3V0In5R.

FDOT starts Granada improvements

The Florida Department of Transportation is narrowing the Granada Boulevard travel lanes in Ormond Beach’s downtown district as part of a $9.2 million road safety project.

The project, which started on Tuesday, will repave State Road 40 from U.S. 1 to A1A, not including the bridge. In addition to narrowing lanes to 10 feet, FDOT plans to introduce “subtle alignment shifts” to help encourage slower driving speeds, according to the project description.

The state agency will also construct a new directional median opening at Washington Street to help reduce left-turn conflicts.

The beachside will also get a new mid-block pedestrian crossing, to be located between Vining Court and Bovard Avenue. The crossing will be elevated to be level with the sidewalk and will include in-road lighting to alert motorists of when people cross, according to FDOT.

The existing crossings at Washington Street and the one in front of the Grind Gastropub and Ormond Garage, located just west of Beach Street, will be improved as part of the project. FDOT plans to equip all three with an overhead pedestrian hybrid beacon like the recent crosswalk it installed at A1A and Rock-

“We’re

efeller Drive.

Finally, FDOT will upgrade intersection lighting and install new mast arm poles at the Ridgewood Avenue and A1A traffic signals. New bicycle lanes will be added next to the turnlanes and the project includes minor drainage improvements and other median modifications.

FDOT held a public meeting for the project in August 2022. It initially aimed to start construction in spring of 2023.

All existing sidewalks and onstreet parking will remain.

concerned because we really feel like it’s a deceptive manipulation of truth and for probably a small group’s own self-interest.”

Nannette McKeel Petrella, president of Daytona Dog Beach on petition to end the dog-friendly beach pilot program. See Page 4A

Residents safe after mobile home fire

Ormond Beach firefighters responded to a mobile home on fire the morning of Friday, May 10, in the 800 block of North Nova Road. The fire — believed to have been caused by a window air conditioning unit — started in the home’s rear bedroom, though the trailer sustained significant smoke damage, according to the city. The homeowner and his adult son were able to exit the home without injuries. A cat was

Ormond Beach advisory boards — Aviation, Leisure Services and Planning — have committed to write a letter of opposition for the

posed fuel farm at 874 Hull Road. Email Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas at Jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com

JARLEENE ALMENAS

Cheers!

Rotary Club of Ormond Beach holds fifth annual beer fest

The fifth annual Ormond Beach Beer Festival was held in Rockefeller Gardens at The Casements on Saturday, May 11. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Ormond Beach, the festival featured more than 100 different beers from over 35 breweries, as well as wine, non-alcoholic beverages, food and retail vendors. Admission to the family-friendly event was free, while beer-tasting tickets sold for $35 in advance and $40 on the day of the event. All proceeds will help the Rotary Club of Ormond Beach in its mission to enhance the Ormond Beach community, assist families and children in need and support local charities.

The popular event was well-attended by Ormond Beach residents, vacationers, and out-of-town daytrippers. Beer Festival Chairman Gary Russell, his mother JoEllyn Russell and his wife Carlene Russell traveled from Arkansas to run the festivities.

–SUZANNE MCCARTHY

Commission explores uses for 56 N. Beach St.

The property has been used as a parking lot since the city demolished the former Ormond Beach Union Church in 2021.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

With over $780,000 in state funds in the mix, the Ormond Beach City Commission continues to explore the idea of building a community center at 56 N. Beach St., the site of the former Ormond Union Church.

The commission discussed the property and the community center concept during its workshop on Tuesday, May 7. The city has received $783,059 in legislative funding through a grant by the Department of Economic Opportunity for a new community center at the former church property, which the city purchased in 2018 for $729,000. In 2021, the commission voted 3-2 to demolish the church, largely due to a high estimated cost for restoration efforts.

After the church was demolished, the city constructed a parking lot to help with parking in the downtown until it decided on a permanent use for the property.

The commission is still leaning toward a community center.

“When we purchased that property, that’s what we pitched to the public,” City Commissioner Harold Briley said at the workshop May 7. “And that’s what we pitched to the residents.”

Public Works Director Shawn Finley presented a few different community center concepts based on current facilities in neighboring cities for the commission to consider, ranging from a capacity of 141 to 153 people, and between 7,750 square feet and 11,000 square feet.

“I think a building of this size could serve the community well,” Finley said. “It could serve a need and it’s a building that would be worth doing.”

Mayor Bill Partington proposed a two-story community center to better utilize the property, which spans almost 1.3 acres, including the riverfront parcel south of the Ormond Yacht Club. He suggested looking into a building design that would have parking on the ground floor and the center on the second.

“You not only enhance the view because you’re up a little higher, but you could have a bigger facility that would still work,” Partington said. Going with such a design could allow the city to increase the capacity. Leisure Services Director Robert Carolin said the demand for a banquet hall for special events is typically closer to 200-250 range.

City Commissioner Lori Tolland said building a community center could still be worth pursuing even if it can’t hold 200-250 people.

“I’m sure there’s other smaller groups in the city that would utilize that and rent it out even if we can’t get to that 250 number,” Tolland said. Should the commission decide not to construct a community center at 56 N. Beach St., city staff would have to go back to the state to amend its grant.

In 2021, following the demolition of the Ormond Beach Union Church, the city constructed a parking lot at 56 N. Beach St.

Photo by Jarleene Almenas

“Dear Beer” author Sean Donovan mans his book tent with friend Dale Howell, both from Ormond Beach.

Beer Festival Chairman Gary Russell, his mother JoEllyn Russell, and his wife Carlene Russell traveled from Arkansas for the festivities.

Michael Fischetti and Erika Patterson work at the Poppi Prebiotic Soda booth.

S.R. Perrott wine manager Sue Barry, of Ormond Beach, host a selection of wine during the beer fest.

Victoria Armone, Janine Petito, Joe Armone, and Steven Petito enjoy the beer fest while visiting their Ormond Beach vacation home.

Marlena Fabrics and Dominic Paquette, of Ormond Beach, host the Shiner Rock Beer tent. Photos by Suzanne McCarthy

Cale Shortridge and R.C. Richards, with Cash the pit-boxer mix, stopped by the beer fest in the midst of their move to Ormond Beach from Tennessee.

Some call for end of dog beach pilot program, supporters say program is going well

A petition to end the program has been signed over 300 times; a counterpetition to keep it has been signed over 1,500 times.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

Volusia County’s dog-friendly beach pilot program has now been active for over six months. Is it working? Is it causing issues? Do residents still want it?

Two petitions — one to end the pilot program immediately and one to continue it — have emerged in recent weeks. Part-time Ormond Beach resident and former City Commissioner David Schecter created a petition to end the program in March, citing that dog owners are not adhering to the program’s rules to keep their dogs leashed and cleaning up after them, both in the dog-friendly beach and outside of it. Schecter, who lives in a condo north of the 0.6-mile stretch of dogfriendly beach, said the county isn’t enforcing the program’s rules — and hasn’t enforced the ban of animals on the beach countywide for years.

“When they put this dog zone in place — which most people weren’t too worried about — we felt the county’s lack of enforcement of its own rules about animals on the beach was going to be a bad sign,” Schecter said.

His petition has been signed 318 times, as of Wednesday morning.

Nanette McKeel Petrella, president of Daytona Dog Beach Inc., started a counter petition on May 1 in support of the pilot program. When they saw Schecter’s petition, Petrella said, she was struck by what she described as an “inaccurate and exaggerated representation of facts” and uninformed claims.

“When we saw that the petition was there and heard about it ... we were very disheartened by it,” Petrella said. “But the more we dug into it, we really became very concerned,

and we’re concerned because we really feel like it’s a deceptive manipulation of truth and for probably a small group’s own self-interest.”

Petrella’s counter petition has been signed 1,503, as of Wednesday morning.

MOST BEACHES STILL DOG-FREE

Anybody can start a petition, Volusia County Councilman Troy Kent said. Kent, who spearheaded the effort last year to implement the pilot program in Ormond on the beach from Milsap Road to Rockefeller Drive, said county staff data from the past four months show the pilot program has been “wildly successful.”

There are 6,223 dogs counted in the dog-friendly beach over the past four months. A total of 204 warnings were given for a dog spotted off its leash, two warnings of owners not cleaning up after their dog, and 100% compliance.

“We’re talking about 1% of the beach here,” Kent said. “Ninetynine percent is still dog-free. Some people will try to ruin any good that is happening out there.”

There’s a vocal minority out there, Kent said, who want a “private beach” and to prevent dog owners from walking their pets in front of their condos. He said dogs walking outside of the dog-friendly beach are oftentimes service animals.

Schecter said that part of the issue is that, now that the dog pilot program has been created, people think dogs are allowed everywhere on the beach, creating a problem for people outside of the designated zone. He said he has a couple dozen photos on his phone, as other people have been sending him photos of dogs outside of the designated zone, off-leash or with owners not cleaning up after them.

“When we contacted our representatives, we got nowhere,” he said.

He’s not someone that creates petitions regularly, he said. He’s been a dog owner for most of his life. Not everyone is a responsible dog owner, he said, and the pilot program was rolled out too quickly.

“It’s now become a real hot mess,”

Schecter said. “So when we got, not only zero response but we were basically told we were nuts, we just thought, ‘All right, we’ll try a petition.’”

A handful of residents, Schecter said, plan to attend the May 21 Ormond Beach City Commission meeting to ask for local support to shut the program down.

SAFETY CONCERNS

Implementing the dog-friendly beach pilot program was a journey that took over three years, Petrella said. The county is approaching the program from a statistical standpoint, she added, and all of her 34 volunteers have been trained by county staff.

“They want us to gather data, so we’re collecting data separate from what the county is doing through their agencies, and then we are submitting it every month to them,” Petrella said.

She and her volunteers are not seeing issues on the dog beach. They are not there 24/7, but they are there every day, collecting data and informing beachgoers of the rules.

The volunteers also work to keep the beach clean. In the past six months, Daytona Dog Beach has collected over 1,200 pounds of trash.

“These people are dedicated,” Petrella said. “Most of them are between 50 and 80 years old.”

Schecter said he doesn’t see the volunteers on the beach, and the animal control officer that’s supposed to oversee the program doesn’t patrol the area regularly. The program has been “mismanaged and it’s way understaffed,” he said.

Ormond Beach resident Chris Daniel agrees with Schecter’s concerns. A few months ago, he said, he spoke to the animal control officer in charge of the dog-friendly beach after he saw a couple of dogs offleash. But because the dogs were not in the zone, Daniel said the officer told him to contact the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.

When he spoke to a deputy later that day, Daniel said his concerns were ignored. He said he was told to

Granada Blvd, Ste 102-104, Ormond Beach, 32174

be grateful if dogs walking off leash on the beach was the biggest problem in his life.

“What they’re doing is turning this section of the beach into, in my opinion, a dog park, without regard for all the other people who have traveled down, spent money, got hotels, hoping to just come to the beach, relax, exhale and enjoy the tranquility, rather than be in the middle of a bunch of dogs running back and forth,” Daniel said.

He said he doesn’t think the beach is a place for a dog and that he bought his condo because Volusia County didn’t allow dogs on the beach.

Daniel said he was concerned about the safety of having dogs on the beach too. A couple years ago, his wife was bitten by a dog and now bears scars on her leg and hand.

“To be honest with you, I don’t feel good about calling the sheriff’s office to report a dog on the beach,” Daniel said. “You know these guys have bigger things going on, but who is going to enforce it? That’s who they tell you to call.”

VSO and Volusia County Animal Services have received zero reports about dog bites or aggressive incidents on the beach involving dogs

since the start of the pilot program.

‘THERE IS A DEMAND’

Most people who go to the dogfriendly beach, Petrella said, are doing the right thing. They’re keeping their dogs on a leash, sitting under an umbrella and enjoying the beach. She has her own photos to back that up.

“There is a demand and I hear such heartfelt stories from all points of view as to what this means,” Petrella said. “And so that’s who I’m continuing to work for.”

Kent said that when he’s on the dog-friendly beach, he’s seeing “happy dogs and happy dog owners.” He hasn’t seen the issues outlined in Schecter’s petition, which he said is “fear-mongering.” At the end of the day, Kent said, the facts speak for themselves — and one of those is that Petrella’s counter petition has been signed by over 1,000 more people.

“It speaks volumes that most people want to allow Volusia County to have a section of the beach where it’s dog-friendly — that’s what it says,” Kent said. “It’s actually to me, it’s an exclamation point.”

Schecter said he’s not opposed to a dog-friendly stretch of beach, but where it was placed is a “real recipe or disaster.”

“By creating, honestly, a dog zone to begin with, you’ve added fuel to the fire in terms of animals now allowed on the beach,” Schecter said. “And that’s really the biggest issue — they’re just not doing what they’re supposed to do and don’t seem to care.”

“When they put this dog zone in place — which most people weren’t too worried about — we felt the county’s lack of enforcement of its own rules about animals on the beach was going to be a bad sign.”

DAVID SCHECTER

Volusia County Animal Services Director Angela Miedema takes Franny for a walk after the start of the pilot program last year. File photo by Jarleene Almenas

YOUR TOWN

Tradewinds art show names winners

The annual Seabreeze High School Tradewinds art show is now on display at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum. Over 100 pieces of student art were celebrated with an opening reception on Thursday, May 9, where 21 students were recognized with awards. The juried art show, founded in 1964 by late Seabreeze art teacher Nina Masters, features 2D and 3D works in various mediums. It will remain on display through May 26.

THE FOLLOWING STUDENTS RECEIVED PRIZES

AT THE SHOW:

„ First place 2D: Madelyn White, “Below the Surface”

„ First place 3D: Raz de-Via Rozental, “Unwanted Dream”

„ Second place 2D: Kayla Lancing, “ITS NOT THAT BIG OF A DEAL!”

„ Second place 3D: Madison Heard, “Plenty of Fish in the Sea”

„ Third place 2D: Anna Larson, “Sunday Drives”

„ Third place 3D: Peyton Lily, “Trapped in Time”

„ Honorable mention: Kaden Keezer, “The Great Extinction”

„ Honorable mention: Kayla Frederick, “Snap of a Memory”

„ Honorable mention: Victoria Cole, “Graceful Shadows”

„ Honorable mention: Daniela Picione, “Bedroom Scene”

„ Honorable mention: Ivy Lee, “Reflection”

„ Honorable mention: Emily Barnes, “Coiling Curves”

„ Honorable mention: Isabella Serrano, “Flor de Luna”

„ Honorable mention: Peyton Lily, “Gabriel the Fish”

„ Honorable mention: Madelyn White, “Illusion of Words”

„ Honorable mention: Caya Asbille, “Fish Out of Water”

„ Honorable mention: Romeo Quito, “Life in Pieces”

„ Honorable mention: Madison Heard, “Busy Whittling”

„ Honorable mention: Braylen Moses, “Bear the Dog”

„ Honorable mention: Lauren Wilkins, “Catguana”

„ Honorable mention: Caya Asbille, “Sinner”

Locals seek to save Chief Tomokie statue

A group of Ormond residents are hoping to place the statue on the Florida Trust’s ‘11 to Save’ program.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

A group of Ormond Beach residents are hoping to save Chief Tomokie.

The Chief Tomokie Preservation Group is aiming to have the statue placed on the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation’s “11 to Save” program for 2024 — and the group solicited letters of support from the community. Every year, the organization picks 11 threatened historic places in the state and highlights them with the mission to inspire communities to preserve them. While no funding accompanies the designation, being on the list helps with applying for grants that could fund preservation efforts.

Last year, Ormond Yacht Club was added to the Florida Trust’s 2023 “11 to save list.” The deadline to submit an application to the Florida Trust was May 15.

The Chief Tomokie statute, located in Tomoka State Park, was created in 1955 by American sculptor Frederick Dana Marsh and stands on the site of a Timicuan village, known as Nocoroco. According to information provided to the Observer by Bill Partington II, who is part of the Chief Tomokie Preservation Group, the 45-foot tall sculpture was composed of lightweight materials such as bamboo armature, cement plaster and brick dust. A reflecting pool was added to the sculpture in 1956, but the water was shut off in 1974 and a museum that stood on the site displaying Marsh’s work was closed in 1996.

While the sculpture was restored to a degree in 1998, no further funding was available to repair the sculpture, which has also been vandalized over the years and has figures and limbs missing.

“This towering example of modernist outdoor art, which

former Ormond MainStreet executive director Julia Truilo reads. “By seeking recognition for the Chief Tomokie statue supporters hope to show the importance of this work both to local history and to the art world. Being listed as one of the ‘11 to Save’ projects will help raise the profile of the sculpture as the Chief Tomokie Preservation Group seeks to raise money and support to preserve and restore the statue.”

The statue depicts the “Legend of Tomokie,” based of a fictional account of a mythical tribe. The legend says Tomokie’s tribe turned on him for the sacrilege of drinking the Water of Life from the Sacred Cup.

At the May 7 City Commission meeting, Commissioner Harold Briley asked the commission to submit a letter of support to the Florida Trust.

“It’s been in disrepair for so long, for so many years, and

we’ve lost so much of it, but it would be great if we could get some sort of grant to save or maybe restore that statue to what it used to be — to it’s former glory,” Briley said. The commission agreed.

City Commissioner Lori Tolland also asked the city to investigate if Tomoka State Park had any current plans in the work regarding the statue. Mayor Bill Partington, son of Partington II, said he’s been advocating for the restoration of the statue for 17 years, but the state park system has not supported it.

“They don’t seem to be interested in the fact that we ave a strong interest in that as locals,” Partington said. “It’s a huge part of our history and our culture.”

Email Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas at Jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com

The Chief Tomokie statue was created in 1955 by American sculptor Frederick Dana Marsh. This is what it looked like in April 1957. Photo courtesy of State Archives of Florida/Jim Stokes

Seabreeze High School student Raz de-Via Rozental and Art Department Chair Christine Colby. Courtesy photos

Emily Barnes received an honorable mention for her piece, “Coiling Curves,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM.

Madison Heard received an honorable mention for her piece, “Busy Whittling,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM. Her teacher Kasondra Price, stands at her side.

Victoria Cole received an honorable mention for her piece, “Graceful Shadows,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM.

Madelyn White won first place for 2D art for her piece, “Below the Surface,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM.

Caya Asbile received an honorable mention for her piece, “Fish Out of Water,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM.

Anna Larson won third place for 2D art for her piece, “Sunday Drives,” in the Tradewinds show at OMAM.

COPS CORNER

APRIL 29

12:16 p.m. — 700 block of South Nova Road, Ormond Beach Grand theft. Superheroes fight crime — and one local comic book store employee did his part in preventing it. When a frequent customer brought two comic books up to the register to purchase, the employee noticed something odd. The price tags were much lower than the true price of the comic books: One was supposed to cost $1,200 and the other $200, according to a police report; instead, the sleeves stated they cost $12 and $5.

BRIEFS

VSO deputies adopt dogs rescued from DeLand home

Three dogs recently rescued from a house in DeLand have been adopted by the deputies who responded to to their case.

The employee confronted the customer, who then left the store. The customer was then contacted by the store’s owner who advised him he was no longer welcome at their store, police report.

MAY 6

CONSTRUCTIVE OR DESTRUCTIVE?

12:29 p.m. — 1400 block of West Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Battery. Police arrested a 35-year-old Daytona Beach woman who, according to witnesses in a shopping plaza, hit a man and chased him in her car after he criticized her driving. When the reporting officer arrived on the scene, the pair were standing in the corner of the road in the plaza, according to the woman’s arrest report. Upon approaching them,

A Volusia County press release reported that 12 malnourished and emaciated animals were receiving medical treatment and care at Volusia County Animal Services after their rescue from a home in the 300 block of East Beresford Avenue in DeLand. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office reported that 37-yearold Ashley Taryn Boucher was arrested on 20 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and eight counts of confinement of animals without sufficient food, water or exercise on May 6.

Three dogs — Dutch, Ariel and Odie — were rescued from the home, along with two cats, three snakes, one tortoise, one gecko, one lizard and a tarantula. However, a young Basset hound, two cats, two birds and three geckos were found dead, according to the county. Boucher is being held at the Volusia County Branch Jail on a $54,000 bond. On Wednesday, VSO report-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 7:00 P.M. on the 28th day of May 2024, for the purpose of Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 2024-07, before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Flagler County Government Services Building (GSB) located at 1769 East Moody Blvd, Bunnell, Florida 32110.

ORDINANCE 2024-07

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF BUNNELL LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENT TO SECTION 18-52 WETLANDS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENT TO VARIOUS SECTIONS WITHIN CHAPTER 34 – ZONING; PROVIDING FOR LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND APPLICABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell’s website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City’s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the proposed Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information this ordinance can be obtained at the office of the Bunnell Customer Service Office, 604 E. Moody Blvd. Unit 6, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting.

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

the woman walked away toward an Asian restaurant, and the officer spoke with the man, who denied that the woman hit him.

But a witness then told police that he had watched the woman hold the man by his head while repeatedly smacking him in the face and yelling, the report states. The man tried to walk away, but the woman kept chasing him, the witness said, and eventually did so, using her car.

The man and woman both told police that the argument started when he criticized her driving, and that “it escalated from there,” the report states. However, neither admitted that the argument got physical and the man had no visible marks.

The woman was taken to jail.

ed on its Facebook page that the Deputy Kletus Stubblefield had adopted Dutch, Deputy Juston Schramm had adopted Ariel and Sgt. T.J. Pullin had adopted Odie. As for the rest of the animals, Volusia County said reported that nine had found foster homes or have been adopted, including the dogs. The cats were transferred to the Southeast Volusia Humane Society. One ball python is still available for adoption.

Palm Coast woman hit by car on S.R. 100

A Palm Coast woman is in critical condition after she was struck by a sedan. The crash happened at 12:38 a.m. on May 13, on State Road 100 just west of North Forsyth Street, according to a Florida highway Patrol report. The sedan was driving east on S.R. 100 when the woman attempted to cross the road directly in front of

MAY 10 ‘HANGRY’ CRIMES

9:26 p.m. — 6200 block of State Road 100, Palm Coast Shoplifting. A Palm Coast man was arrested after he stole two pieces of pizza and a frozen yogurt from a gas station.

The stolen food totaled $8.98, according to the suspect’s arrest report. The suspect initially told a Sheriff’s Office deputy he only had one bite of a pizza because he did not have the money to pay for it at the time, but promised the clerk he would return with the money.

The store clerk who called law enforcement said the man had taken three items, and, when told he needed to pay for the food, the suspect then threatened to fight the employee, the arrest report said.

the sedan, the report said. The woman was airlifted to Halifax Hospital in critical condition. Neither the passenger nor the driver of the sedan were injured.

Palm Coast man arrested in connection with 2022 pipe bomb

On May 9 at approximately 10 p.m., the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Palm Coast man at his residence on Bronson Lane. He is accused of creating a pipe bomb that exploded outside a home on Poppy Lane in January 2022. Following a two-year joint investigation between FCSO’s Homeland Security section, the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, Jason Burns, 49 was arrested on felony charges of arson in the first degree and making/placing/

The suspect was arrested and trespassed from the gas station. When told he was trespassed, the suspect said he would return to the gas station and “defecate on the property” once he was released.

MAY 11

SMOKING BREAK-IN

1:25 a.m. — 100 block of Brittany Lane, Palm Coast Burglary. A Palm Coast man was caught breaking into vehicles in a neighborhood and, in one car, allegedly decided to take a smoke break.

Another resident on the street called the Sheriff’s Office when his doorbell Ring camera alerted him to movement in his driveway, according to an arrest report. The camera caught the suspect attempting to enter a car in the driveway.

possessing destructive device with property damage.

In the early morning hours of Jan. 27, 2022, the Flager County Sheriff’s Communications Center received two 911 calls reporting a loud explosion, followed by a bright light and smoke which seemed to originate outside a home at 30 Poppy Lane in Palm Coast. Upon arrival, responding deputies smelled a strong odor of gas and smoke in the air and observed remnants of a blast from an improvised explosive device. Fortunately, the residents were unharmed, but both the home and an adjacent home were damaged. Investigators determined the explosion was created by a home-made pipe-bomb that left a 1-inch-deep crater, 12 inches wide, only several feet from where the residents of both homes were sleeping. During the investigation, the resident of 27 Poppy Lane, Jason Burns, was identified as a person of interest due to his hostility toward the victims. Burns was also known to the

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Discover your dream home in Deland, where convenience meets luxury in this beautiful, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath townhome. Boasting a prime location, this residence is nestled in the heart of Deland. As you enter the home, be greeted by a beautifully crafted foyer, flowing seamlessly into a spacious, open concept living area. MLS#1122977

Unique INCOME PRODUCING two unit property in prime location near Pictona! This 3/1 home and attached 1/1 apartment have been rented through AirBnb in a legally permitted area for short-term rentals. Beautifully remodeled oversize kitchen, gleaming hardwood floors, fireplace, large patio and detached large 3 car garage! MLS#1122469 $499,000 Call Maureen France 386-479-2151.

Move in ready beachside block home w/ 1594 sqft under air on one of the most desirable streets in the serene Ormond by the Sea. This home features over $20k in new (2024) impact windows throughout & was overhauled over the last 5 years w/ permitted new HVAC, Septic, plumbing, electric, blown in insulation, paint & more. MLS#1122833 $382,000 Call Renata Rosander 386-316-8041.

Prime location alert! Nestled in the highly soughtafter beachside area of Ormond-by-the-Sea, this gem is just steps away from the pristine no drive beach. Boasting 2 beds & a flex/laundry room that has the potential to convert into a 3rd bedroom, along with 2.5 baths. MLS#1122383 $469,900. Call Roger Maynard 386-562-5307.

425092-1

After the suspect left and deputies were called, the man then drove around the neighborhood looking for the suspect. That’s when he saw the suspect leaving a neighbor’s driveway, the report said.

Deputies found the man as he was walking and smoking a cigarette and detained him, interviewing the first victim and waking up the homeowner at the the second house. The second homeowner showed deputies her car, where they found cigarette ash on the driver’s seat. The homeowner said no one had ever smoked in the car before. The suspect was arrested on two counts of attempted burglary.

Send news tips to jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.

Sheriff’s Office, the FBI and local businesses for being a prolific writer who wrote, distributed and mailed rambling rants about various claims against government, elected officials and businesses.

During the investigation, Burns denied any involvement and said he was sleeping in his truck at Flagler Beach with a friend at the time of the explosion. However, detectives obtained phone records and GPS data that placed him in the area at the time of the explosion. When confronted with this discrepancy, he claimed a friend had his phone.

On Jan. 4, 2023, detectives obtained a search warrant for Burns’ DNA. The DNA sample was sent to ATF’s National Laboratory Center in Beltsville, Maryland, which determined the DNA found at the scene of the blast was a match for Jason Burns. In addition to the two felony charges connected to the explosion, Burns also faces an additional charge for violating his probation that stemmed from a 2023 arrest for stalking his ex-wife. In that case, he placed multiple letters in her mailbox, one containing white powder. He is currently being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility on $75,000 bond.

Former Mainland football coach sentenced to 21 years in prison

A former Mainland High School football coach and teacher was sentenced to 21 years in prison for child sexual abuse crimes committed while he was employed by Volusia County Schools, the State Attorney’s Office reported.

Arin Hankerd, who was most recently a football coach and teacher at Atlantic High School, was arrested in May of 2023 and charged for two different sexual abuse cases. The charges included include two counts of child molestation, traveling to meet a minor, exhibition via computer, sexual activity with a minor and two counts of committing an offense against a student by an authority figure. Hankerd was initially arrested for crimes committed while he was the coach at Atlantic; the second victim came forward after his arrest, according to the the State Attorney’s Office. That crime was committed when Hankerd was a coach and teacher at Mainland in 2019.

“Coaches have significant sway over the athletes and students they serve,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said in a press release. “The defendant chose to use his influence to sexually exploit and manipulate our victims. His betrayal of their trust and vulnerability makes him a predator of epic proportions.” The cases were investigated by the Port Orange and Ormond Beach Police Departments. Hankerd will also serve 30 years of sex offender probation and will be designated as a sexual predator.

VSO Deputy Juston Schramm has adopted Ariel. Photo courtesy of VSO's Facebook Page

BRIEFS

Kennedy Landscaping expands to Flagler County

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Halifax Plantation house is the top sale

“It’s an honor to lead Kennedy Landscaping into this new chapter of expansion,” Kennedy II said. “Working alongside my father for the past 10 years has been an incredible journey, and I am excited to bring our expertise and dedication to the residents of Flagler County.”

Kennedy Landscaping, an Ormond Beach-based company, is expanding its business to Flagler County, Spearheading the expansion is owner Daniel Kennedy’s son, Daniel Kennedy II. Kennedy II, a Seabreeze High School graduate and resident of Flagler County, has been working alongside his father since he was 14 years old. With a passion for landscaping and a commitment to excellence instilled by his father, Kennedy II has played a pivotal role in the growth and reputation of Kennedy Landscaping, a press release said.

Police station

During a workshop on Tuesday, May 7, city staff announced it will bring a contract before the City Commission for approval to hire JL2 architecture for the $200,000 study. The firm has completed 8,300 projects in Volusia County, with over 300 taking place in the city.

“They’ve done police stations, they’ve done fire stations, they’ve done operations center,” Public Works Director Shawn Finley said. “So this is why we’re recommending utilizing this company.”

Constructing a new police station and EOC was identified as a top public safety priority by the Ormond Beach City Commission in 2019 and 2023. In 2020, the city conducted a relocation feasibility study. The space needs

analysis is the next step in the process.

What is the analysis meant to do? It will help define the scope of the project by addressing current and future needs, along with answer questions about possible locations and how much the project could cost.

“Getting that further detail will help us to show that we are serious about doing this project,” Finley said. “It’ll put some skin in the game on our behalf and it will help us to get some additional funding from other sources.”

While the governor vetoed a city funding request for $1.45 million in 2023 for a new police station and EOC, the city was successful in acquiring state funds this year.

The city is expecting to receive $1,451,875 in legislative funding through a Department of Economic Opportunity grant.

The city’s previous estimate of $51 million for the project, Finley told the commission, was a ballpark figure. A space needs analysis, he said, would

Kennedy II, expressed gratitude for the support of the community and looks forward to serving the landscaping needs of Flagler County residents.

“This expansion is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication, and we are eager to bring our passion for landscaping to new customers and communities,” he said.

help develop an accurate cost estimate.

“We can’t go out for funding if we don’t have accurate cost estimates,” he said.

One possible location for the joint police station and EOC is a 115.52-acre cityowned site east of I-95 by Pineland Trail.

What about the current police station at 170 W. Granada Blvd.? City Manager Joyce Shanahan said the city “certainly needs some sort of presence in the downtown.” The commission, she said, will decide what that will look like.

“We will impress upon them (the consultants) the importance of keeping that presence in the downtown,” Shanahan said. “We don’t want anyone in this room or in the community to think that we’re going to abandon the downtown.”

The original police station was built in the downtown in 1972. The current 21,000-square feet police station was rebuilt onsite in 2001.

Ahouse in Halifax Plantation was the top real estate transaction for March 31 to April 6 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-bythe-Sea. Taylor Morrison of Florida Inc., of Maitland, sold 1341 Arklow Circle to Sandra Ivelisse Mora Rodriguez and Shirley Ann Sueiro, of Ormond Beach, for $792,300. Built in 2024, the 4/3.5 house has 3,221 square feet.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

Matthew Deangelis, of New York, New York, and Keri Ann Fessler, of Weehawken, New Jersey, sold 640 N. Nova Road, Unit 204, to Jeremy Coroneas and Lisa McRay, of Ormond Beach, for $140,000. Built in 1976, the condo is a 2/2 and has 950 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $102,000.

Cynthia Adolfie, Walter Richardson and Rebecca Andahazy, of Ormond Beach, sold 5500 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 101, to Hope Valenti, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, for $162,500. Built in 1973, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,214 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $122,000.

Linda and Brittany Boardman, of Palm Coast, sold 3370 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 105-B, to Frederick Duvar Harrison and Lanette Lacene Hastings, of Southfield, Michigan, for $247,500. Built in 1987, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,275 square feet. It

sold in 2023 for $200,000.

Nancy Malanga, of Ormond Beach, sold 3370 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 304, to Richard Scierka, as trustee, for $290,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,275 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $309,000.

ORMOND BEACH

Breakaway Trails

Karlvin Duperval, of Davenport, sold 5 Coquina Ridge Way to Paula McDaniel and Toni Marie Basilone, of Ormond beach, for $575,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,654 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $330,000.

Cherrywood Federal Home loan Mortgage Corporation, of Carrollton, Texas, sold 402 Cherrywood Drive to Troy Daniel Parker, of Ormond beach, for $224,500. Built in 1979, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,499 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $157,000.

Halifax Plantation

James and Debora Hillier,

of Ormond Beach, sold 1204 Londonderry Circle to Gregory Whealin and Beth Ann Patey Whealin, of Ormond Beach, for $722,500. Built in 1999, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool and 3,181 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $365,000.

William and Hazel Kuczmera, as trustees, sold 1443 Pecos Drive to Mitchell Scott Lindbergh and Kim Marie Lindbergh, of Ormond Beach, for $637,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,473 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $635,000.

Trails South Forty Linda Schecter, of Ormond Beach, sold 125 Horseshow Trail to Rose Silvers, as trustee, for $340,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,795 square feet. It sold in 2007 for $185,000.

Jean Shook, a personal representative, sold 46 Big Buck Trail to Judith Ann Handley and Joe Handley, of New Smyrna Beach, for $325,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,811 square feet. It sold in 1998 for $115,600.

Tymber Creek Jeremy Reidenberg, LLC, of Ormond Beach, sold 319 Oak Fern Circle to Amanda Lyn Forister and Troy Alan Akins, of Sheridan, Wyoming, for $444,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,420 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $340,000.

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

Helping Your Mom Live Her Best Life.

Your mom. Your safe space. Your advocate. Your nurturer. Your friend. She’s been there for you since the very beginning – protecting you, guiding you and loving you unconditionally.

Over time, as you both continue to grow and transition into different chapters in life, she may need your support a little bit more. There comes a time when you can give back the love and support she’s given you over the years – and helping her find a new home may be on the top of the list!

There is no better feeling than finding her a home, in Paradise. A place where she is cared for around-the-clock by nursing staff, has amenities she cherishes and loves, and where she can form friendships that keep her sharp and social. A place where you know she’s safe, happy – and living her best life.

Since my mom’s been here, she’s been doing very well. Her health has been great. She’s healthy, happy and stays busy. She has her dog with her, which makes her very happy. She interacts with other people a lot which I think is very important. ”

– SUSAN PERSIS

Daniel Kennedy II and Daniel Kennedy. Courtesy photo

We need to enforce classroom discipline at Volusia County Schools

Donna Brosemer, a candidate running for the Volusia County School Board District 4 seat, writes that the Volusia County Schools Code of Student Conduct doesn’t mean anything if it isn’t enforced.

We’ve all been there. We’re in a quiet restaurant with a spouse or friend, trying to chat, and at a nearby table, a child is having a tantrum. The parents begin to negotiate:

“What do you want? Do you want ketchup?”

“Yes, you can have some of my French fries.”

No change. More screaming. Then an attempt at boundaries.

“No, you can’t have dessert until you eat at least some of your dinner.”

Still more screaming. The desperate parents finally give in, and give the little darling some dessert, so they can eat in peace. No consequences.

A third-grader tells his teacher to f---k off. Policy requires the teacher to follow the many pages and

LETTERS

Fuel farm is a ‘horrible idea’

Dear Editor:

I am writing because I do not think the Belvedere Fuel Terminals are a good idea.

My name is William and I am 12 years old and live in the Tomoka Oaks community.

YOUR TOWN

HOLLY HILL RECOGNIZES FALLEN VETERANS WITH NEW MEMORIAL AT CITY HALL

The city of Holly Hill unveiled its new Veterans Memorial on Wednesday, May 8, with a ceremony attended by local officials and the surviving family members of local fallen military service members.

“The ceremony was a solemn yet

dozens of steps of “restorative justice” to try to talk the disrespectful little person into behaving better. He doesn’t. He has just learned that he will only be lectured. No consequences.

The third-grader is now in eighth grade and is pushing students and throwing chairs. The teacher sends a discipline referral to the principal, who then tosses it because referrals are capped to ensure a higher school grade. The chair thrower is sent back to class. No consequences.

Now the chair thrower is in high school. He has learned that he can keep pushing the envelope without pushback. He wanders around the room during class, talking to friends, shouting across the room, moving furniture, swearing at the teacher.

Teacher tries discipline referral.

See above for outcome.

Then college. At Ivy League universities, administrators watched encampments build slowly, over days or weeks, and looked the other way. When the encamped students demanded special accommodations in both “humanitarian aid” and in random policy demands, administrators pulled out their long list of restorative justice negotiating steps. No consequences.

Blue uniforms were finally called and began arresting those disruptive trespassers and vandalizers. Consequences.

Then these products of restorative justice started whining about the damage a criminal record would do to their future job prospects, and they demanded no consequences, which they had never before experi-

I strongly believe that the fuel farm is a horrible idea because it impacts many things including traffic safety, the environment, and the children in the community. On top of all the traffic that goes in and out of Hull Road, it will become a challenge to get in and out. The amount of traffic going out and in at all hours, every single day, causes continuous challenges for other motorists. Because of this, accidents are more likely to occur.

uplifting occasion,” a press release by the city stated. It was attended by more than 100 citizens, city and county officials and other guests, including Holly Hill Mayor Chris Via and the Holly Hill City Commission, Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington, Sen. Tom Wright, Rep. Chase Traymont and County Councilman Troy Kent.

During the event, Via expressed his gratitude for the courage and sacrifice of our servicemen and invited the surviving family members to help unveil the monument, which lists the names of the 15 fallen soldiers. The monument is located on the front lawn of Holly Hill City Hall.

PATHWAYS ELEMENTARY PTA HOSTS COLOR RUN FUNDRAISER

Pathways Elementary School PTA held a 5K and color fun run on Sunday, May 5.

The event, which raised funds for the PTA programs, featured both a 5K and a 1-mile fun run. To help the students rinse off after their run, Ormond Beach firefighters from Station 94 brought an engine to create

enced. This is what they look like.

School districts — teachers, specifically — are not the parents of these kids. They are in the noman’s-land of having to navigate a mountain of laws, rules, statutes, and policies to deal with them, while having no real authority to control the classroom. Parents of disruptive students most often call the school to yell at the principal if the teacher attempts to control the behavior of their disruptive child. The teacher is then overruled at best, or ironically disciplined, at worst. Who pays the price?

Teachers choose their profession out of a desire to give to the next generation — the gift of critical thinking, and the fundamental skills that will provide the foundation for success. They can’t teach in a combat zone.

Students go to school for the same reason teachers teach: to learn the lessons that will give them a foundation for life’s success. They can’t learn in a combat zone. Our consistently low proficiency scores, that have hovered at or near 50% in both English and math for decades, prove the point.

The Volusia County Schools Code of Student Conduct is 25 pages long. None of it means anything if it isn’t enforced. One school board member shrugged off a workshop proposal about dress codes, saying simply, “The principals won’t do that.”

That isn’t okay. The board’s job is to set policy. The administration’s job is to implement and enforce those policies. If they refuse or otherwise fail, it’s the board’s job to

When these trucks go in and out, it contributes to traffic, noise, and air pollution. When Bike Week occurs, there is an inconvenience of the traffic, but it is a temporary thing. The additional income helps our town and small businesses grow and thrive. With the fuel farm, it will become just like that, but forever. Not to mention, the giant storage containers that hold the gasoline could end up causing catastrophic land and

an outdoor shower. The presenting sponsor was WVYB 103.3 The Vibe and D.J. Tremble.

“We would also like to express our gratitude and appreciation to each and every volunteer who helped make this possible as well as our school administrators who back our crazy-fun ideas and support us always,” Pathways PTA wrote on its Facebook Page.

follow through with repercussions for that failure.

Parental support is key. School board members have said publicly that they can’t send a student home for breaking the rules, because the parent might have to miss work to supervise their child.

The district is neither a parent nor a babysitter. If a parent misses work one day because his child misbehaved, maybe that parent will enforce the conduct rules too.

Exceptional Student Education (ESE) kids present a separate and unique challenge. Many ESE kids, with some additional support, do very well in a modified traditional setting.

Those who do not, who require a setting that can’t be reasonably provided by a public school, may do better in an environment that’s specifically equipped to meet their needs. Some behavioral, emotional, and mental health issues should be referred to professionals for treatment. Teachers are not therapists, schools are not equipped to provide therapy, nor should they. The district’s mission is education.

A civilized society begins at home, is reinforced through K-12, develops in college, and is then a gift to the world. Volusia County Schools is a critical part of that equation so that we never see our kids destroying public property on the 6 p.m. news. It starts at the top, by enforcing classroom discipline — now.

Donna Brosemer is a candidate running for Volusia County School Board District 4. A former lobbyist, Brosemer has 30 years of experience

water pollution to the area. They are in the radius of the Tomoka River, the airport, Bear Creek, Ormond Lakes, and the Sports Complex, to name just a few. Finally, lots of kids play sports at the complex, including me. With all the traffic and possible pollution, it won’t be safe for kids like me to play the sports that we love.

I am just one kid, so my voice may never be heard. You are a mass communication outlet that is heard

LIGHTHOUSE CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TO HOST SCUBA BIBLE SCHOOL

Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church in Ormond Beach will hold a summer kids event called Scuba VBS from June 24-28.

At the vacation Bible school, kids will explore what it means to have a friendship with God, according to a press release. Kids will participate in Bible-learning activities, sing songs, play teamwork-building games, create crafts, and test out experiments.

Each day concludes with a “Fintastic Finale” that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned. Family members and friends are encouraged to join in daily for this at 11:45 a.m.

Scuba VBS is for kids entering kindergarten to graduating fifth graders and will run from 9:30 a.m. to noon each day. Registration costs $10 per student or $25 for a family, which includes all materials, a T-shirt and snacks. Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact the Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church at 386-677-4076 or aia@ lighthousecpc.org.

Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com

Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com

Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com

Staff Writer Sierra Williams, sierra@observerlocalnews.com

Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com

Director of Engagement Kaitlyn Stier, kstier@observerlocalnews.com

Operations Manager Bonnie Hamilton, bonnie@observerlocalnews.com

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working in public policy and has served on higher education state boards.

by many. All I am asking is that you use your voice to help keep us informed about the Belvedere Fuel Farm and at the end of this we will have a safer, cleaner, and happier community.

WILLIAM PRICE Ormond Beach

MAINLAND HIGH GRAD SERVES ABOARD U.S. NAVY FLOATING AIRPORT IN JAPAN

Petty Officer Second Class Arin Dixon, a native of Daytona Beach, serves in Japan aboard the selfcontained mobile airport and the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan. Equipped with a full flight deck and more than 60 aircraft including attack fighter jets and helicopters, aircraft carriers are one of the largest warships in the world.

Dixon graduated from Mainland High School in 2020.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Daytona Beach.

“Growing up, I learned the importance of independence and how to do things on my own,” Dixon said. “I also learned about being a part of the correct group so I can succeed.” Dixon joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Dixon serves as a yeoman.

“I joined the Navy to follow in the footsteps of my older sister,” Dixon said. “She is the oldest of six siblings and she joined right out of high school. I was inspired by seeing how it panned out for her and I wanted to do the same thing.”

DONNA BROSEMER

Holly Hill Mayor Chris Via speaks during the ceremony.

Family members and city officials surround the memorial. Courtesy photos

Sylvia Elledge and her son Sawyer Niswander at the Pathways color run.

Petty Officer Second Class Arin Dixon.

Pathways Elementary Principal Josh Jackson.

Chazz Palminteri

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SUGAR GLIDERS, newborn, hand fed, male and female, $150 each 386-492-3357

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CUVII FLOOR elliptical, pedal to exercise feet, calfs, thighs, like new $75 386-585-4291

EXERCISE BIKE TEC TRIX, good condition $15, basketball hoop system $10 386-283-9782

GOLF CLUBS used 10 years old Golf bag included $100 (386)-986-7361

GOLFING SETS Bags and full set of clubs, 5 sets in all $60 each Bill (414) 852-2620

K AYAK, 12.5 ft., berglass, with life jacket and paddle, excellent condition $125 712-223-2181

2 CUSTOM mini-blinds w/hardware, for side door windows, ex cond, $40 386-627-6569

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RUBBERMAID NEW garbage can w/wheels $25, Brute rubbermaid recycle round bin $25 814-574-6387

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PATIO FURNITURE 7-piece Patio Set, Farm Table $200 ea. TV stands (407) 388-4238

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Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

21 FAMILIES + Food Truck Sat May 18 8:00-2:00-Pineland Neighborhood-Get treats from TenneSteve Trash Food Truck & shop 21 sales. Handcrafted tumblers & signs, military, fabric, 10x12 rug, dishes, art, cribs, car seats, swings, gol ng, furn, antiques, Harley parts, prof. hair care products, suitcase, formal gowns, scuba gear, outdoor heater, grill, blank tees/hoodies for printing, bullet novelties, 4 pc King bdrm set, workout equip. Granada to Tymber Creek to right on Airport to left on Pinetrail to right on Sandoval. Sponsored by Pam Harvey/1st Florida Realty & Dylan Smith/Waterstone Mortgage

49 BARKELY LANE, 5/18, 8am1pm furniture, nautical decorations, household items too much to list

ESTATE SALE Friday May 17, 7:30 AM-3:00 PM, Saturday May 18, 7:30 AM-3:00 PM, Rain or Shine

1 Freneau Lane Palm Coast, FL 32137 HUGE ESTATE SALE, EVERYTHING MUST GO! PRICED TO SELL! 1966 Olds Toronado classic car, ex condition, 60K actual miles, a rare nd. 12 Curio Cabinets, all sizes, over 1000 pieces glassware collection, Bedroom Suite, Den Furniture by Stressless, Garage Tools, Oil paintings, Yard Tools, 2 and 3 wheeled bikes, garden fountains,

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Gear up and draw

Ormond Beach Elementary students win FDOT’s Mobility Week Bike Lane Design Contest.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Have you seen the new additions to Ormond Beach Elementary School’s front sidewalk?

The Florida Department of Transportation recognized two OBE students on Monday, May 13, for winning the state agency’s annual Mobility Week Bike Lane Design Contest. Fourth grade student Arianna Esposito and second grade student Charlie Lynne Howells were selected as the school’s winners of the contest, for which the school had submitted 40 entries. The designs were created during FDOT District Five’s Mobility

Week, a weeklong celebration held each fall that promotes safe, multimodal transportation choices, according to a press release.

What did Arianna and Charlie win? Their winning designs — “The Colorful Bike Rider” and “Flame of Safety” have been painted in front of the school.

“Hundreds of students ride their bike to school every day in Central Florida, and it’s our job to teach them about safety,” said Libertad AcostaAnderson, Passenger Operations manager for FDOT District Five in the press release.

“What better way to encourage safe cycling practices than a fun personalized piece of

artwork by their school.”

May is National Bike Month, and FDOT is recognizing all of its winners at several events held throughout the month.

In addition to the unveiling of the designs, FDOT also recognized the school’s finalists, gave students a safety presentation and provided goodie bags containing bike safety items.

OBE’s unveiling was the second event held by FDOT for the winners.

Charlie Lynne Howells poses next to her design with her second grade class and teachers Jeanne Neat and Kim Kinsler.

Arianna Esposito poses behind her design with her fourth grade class. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Ormond Beach Elementary School Assistant Principal Francenia Maddox-Barrs, Principal Shannon Hay and her husband Justin Howells, art teacher Kim Kinsler and Carlie Lynne Howells.

Libertad Acosta-Anderson, Passenger Operations manager for FDOT District Five, contest finalists Crosby Domasky, London Clark, Olivia Torres, Quinlee Anderson, and art teacher Kim Kinsler.

Back row: Ormond Beach Elementary Principal Shannon Hay, Nicolas Esposito, Alyssa Esposito, art teacher Kim Kinsler, Assistant Principal Francenia Maddox-Barrs, and (front row) Dominic and Arianna Esposito.

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY,

Savino.

ORMOND BEACH AREA

DEMOCRATIC

CLUB MEETING

When: 7 p.m.

Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: The Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club’s May meeting will feature Volusia County School Board member Carl Persis as its guest speaker. Check-in and socializing begins at 6:30 p.m.

Like minded nonmembers are welcome to attend as guests. Visit ormondbeachdems.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 17 GARDEN CLUB OF PALM COAST YARD SALE

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, May 17; and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 18 Where: 180 Westhampton Drive, Palm Coast

Details: The Garden Club of Palm Coast is hosting a yard sale with mixed items. No furniture.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

FLAGLER COUNTY MASTER GARDENER ANNUAL

PLANT SALE

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell

Details: Join the Flagler County Master Gardeners for their annual plant sale. Free admission.

HISTORY OF THE CIVIL WAR IN FLORIDA

When: 9:30-11 a.m.

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

Details: Author Robert Redd will speak at this free presentation, hosted by the Ormond Beach Historical Society. He will speak of the lesser-known aspects of Florida in the Civil War.

VFW POST 8696 FUNDRAISER

When: 5:30-9 p.m.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

LOW-COST PET SHOT CLINIC

When: 9-11 a.m.

Where: Big Lots plaza, 122 N. Nova Road, Ormond Beach

Details: Get your pet vaccinated at a lower cost. Rabies shots will cost $5 for 1-year vaccinations. Other shots offered include dog distemper/parvo combo, dog flu, cat distemper combo, feline leukemia and more. Heartworm prevention and flea control products will be available for purchase. All vaccinations are administered with a licensed veterinarian. No appointment needed. Clinic is open to everyone. Proceeds benefit abused animals. Call or text 748-899

TASTE OF ORMOND

When: 4-7 p.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond

Beach

Details: Enjoy samples from two dozen of Ormond Beach’s best restaurants along with craft beer and wine at this foodie event. Ticket holders may sample as many restaurants as they like, and there is no additional charge for each food item. S.R. Perrott will offer a tasting area with wines and craft beers. Each table also receives two bottles of wine to share. Additional wine and beer is available for sale. Single tickets cost $75 per person, with VIP seating available at $85 per person. Tables seat up to 10 and can be purchased for $700 for regular seating or $800 for a VIP table. Visit https:// buytickets.at/ormondbeachmainstreet/1087246.

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

When: 12-4 p.m.

Where: Port Orange City Center, 1000 City Center Circle, Port Orange

Where: VFW Post 8696, 47 Old Kings Road North, Palm Coast

Details: Help VFW Post 8696 of Palm Coast raise funds with a pasta buffet diner. Jack Berrios will perform a tribute show to Neil Diamond. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. The show will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $30 per person. Visit vfw8696.org.

Details: See Puppy Pals Live, as seen on America’s Got Talent. Tickets cost $10; kids under 12 are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

ONGOING

‘THE JOY OF COLOR’ When: May 11-31

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: See this exhibit by the Florida Women’s Arts Association, featuring almost 50 local artists. Free. Visit flwaa. com.

Details: Attend this event presented by the Junior League of Daytona Beach. There will be free books, a craft tent, inflatables, balloon art, food trucks, a scavenger hunt, and first responder vehicles, of course. Free event.

MUSIC IN THE GARDENS

When: 2:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park event field, 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast

Details: Spend a jazzy afternoon at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. See the Mainland High School Jazz Band perform, along with Bennie Yarbrough on saxophone, Jeanine McAdams on keys and Phil Reed on drums. There will be food trucks and a kid zone. Bring a blanket or chair to sit. Entrance into the park costs $5 per vehicle. The event is presented by the Ormond Beach Jazz Society, the Friends of the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center and the friends of Washington Oaks Gardens State Park.

CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY PRESENTS ‘MUSIC FROM THE STAGE’

When: 3-4:30 p.m.

Where: St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 5400 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast

Details: See the Choral Arts Society perform some musical favorites and join their 25th anniversary celebration. Free, but donations are accepted to help provide scholarships to high school seniors. Visit casfl.org.

MONDAY, MAY 20

NARFE CHAPTER 2247

: Houligan’s, 1643 U.S.

: The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Chapter 2247 of Ormond Beach will meet for lunch. The program will be on astrology. For more information, email billdenny105@gmail.com

TUESDAY, MAY 21

FOOD TRUCK TUESDAY

When: 5-8 p.m.

Where: Central Park, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast

Details: Food Truck Tuesday is back. Order appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts. Registration is not required. Presented in partnership with the Observer.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

16TH ANNUAL MEET

THE MAYORS When: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Association of Realtors, 4101 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell

Details: Meet representatives from the town of Beverly Beach, city of Bunnell, city of Flagler Beach, town of Marineland, city of Palm Coast and the Flagler County Commission. The forum format will include updates from all city, town and county representatives, including a Q&A, if time permits. Lunch is provided. The event is open to the public but registration is required. Visit https://bit. ly/3wCXUiO.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

PUPPY PALS LIVE

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, 5500 E. Highway 100, Palm Coast

BAM SENIOR FITNESS CLASS When: 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays Where: Palm Coast First Baptist Church, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast Details: Join this Balance and Motion class and develop strength and endurance, core stability and balance. Taught by senior fitness specialist Artie G, the class is open to all fitness levels and free with most insurances. A donation is accepted for those without coverage. See full schedule at synergyseniorfitness.com or call 386-931-3485.

WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB When: 12:30-2 p.m. every Tuesday, beginning Jan. 9 Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Join this book club, which will study “Love Stories of the Bible Speak” by Shannon Bream. The book club will meet in the Marchman Building, room 117. Contact Sylvia Meincke at 386-451-5223.

MOMS OF PRE SCHOOLERS When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Friday of the month Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Moms of Pre Schoolers is a free faith-based program for moms, moms-tobe and their preschoolers for support and encouragement. Breakfast is provided, as well as a video with discussion and crafts. Playtime offered for children, with adult supervision. Call 386-255-2588.

MOAS EXHIBITIONS When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach Details: Want to spend a day looking at fine art? The Museum of Arts and Sciences has the following shows on display: “Tide Pools: Exploring Coastal Communities” ; “Waves & Reels: An Ocean Story through Photography Waves & Reels: An Ocean Story through Photography” ; “The Lure of Florida Fishing” ; and “Megalodon: Largest Shark that Ever Lived.”

Stephen Chicca, of Sovereign 63, prepares Korean pear and Asian plum marinated short rib bao buns during Taste of Ormond on Sunday, March 5. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

THE FINE ARTS

BELOW THE SURFACE. My name is Madelyn White. I was born in Panama City, Florida and currently live in Ormond Beach. My preferred mediums are graphite, colored pencil and ceramics with inspiration from wildlife and surrounding nature. The theme commonly expressed in my art is surrealism. Since I was a kid, I’ve always been the artistic one out of my family and friends. However, this year my passion has grown, and my art continuously has been recognized. I have exhibited in the Scholastics Art and Writing Competition, Dali Student Surrealism Contest, Halifax Art Festival, DSC HS Art Exhibit, and Volusia Students Create, with various placements and awards.

— MADELYN WHITE, first place 2D winner for the Seabreeze High School Tradewinds show

•

Vettes for Vets completes new roof for Palm Coast veteran

Local businesses donated the supplies and labor to give retired U.S. Air Force veteran Christopher Preveziotis a new roof.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

The national nonprofit Vettes for Vets has replaced the roof on a Palm Coast veteran’s house, using donated materials and labor.

U.S. Air Force veteran Christopher Preveziotis, who retired in 2017 after 20 years in service, received his new roof on May 10. Vettes for Vets reached out to Preveziotis for free home repairs in October, and this is the first project the nonprofit has completed for him.

Preveziotis said he has no idea when his roof was last replaced. He purchased the home in 2019, and, since then he said, storms over the years have damaged the roof, even causing a leak on one side. Having the roof replaced is a relief, he said. “I feel pretty good, I’m very grateful,” Preveziotis said.

The roofing materials were supplied by Suncoast Roofing Supply in Flagler Beach while the local Bunnell roofing business R&K supplied a team of roofers to install the new shingles.

R&K is co-owned by four members of the Reed family, including business founder Kenneth, an Army veteran and his son, Don, a Navy veteran. Both father and son said knowing the troubles veterans across the nation face, it was nice to be able to support a fellow veteran.

“We’re proud to do it,” Kenneth Reed said.

Don Reed said the statistics of veteran suicide and the lack of services available to veterans are “atrocious.”

“We have so many veterans in desperate situations, and they’re being marginalized,” he said. “So we have to step up and do our part.”

Vettes for Vets Florida Director Ron Boisvert said that any other repairs completed at Preveziotis’ home will depend on what help the nonprofit can organize through local businesses.

“It’s all volunteer businesses,” Boisvert said. “So that’s what I’m still doing, is going around and getting volunteer businesses to help Christopher and the family out [to see] what we can actually get done.”

Vettes for Vets began as a helpinghand volunteer group to help a South Carolina veteran get a new roof. It has since expanded to include the Washington, D.C., area, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida.

Suncoast Roofing Supply Branch

Manager Billy Grimsley said the national company is a big supporter

of the U.S. military and its veterans. It’s a corporate initiative to give back to local communities, Grimsley said, and when his branch was contacted by Vettes for Vets, the team was happy to help.

“Immediately we were on board to try to help someone out in the community and get back where we could,” Grimsley said. “Personally, it just feels good to do the right things for the right reasons.”

fall. In a statement from DAV

ter 86 Commander Bill May, May said “Chapter 86 is honored to work with Vettes for Vets to support this very deserving veteran and his family.”

Preveziotis retired as an E6, or technical sergeant, specializing in healthcare administration. He initially enlisted in 1990 but left the service in 1994. In the summer of 2001, he returned to the Air Force and remained enlisted for the next 16 years. Preveziotis is now a disabled veteran who is unable to work. Palm Coast’s Disabled American Veterans Chapter 86 connected Vettes for Vets with

Preveziotis last

Chap-

Suncoast Roofers’ Billy Grimsley, Vettes for Vets’ Ron Boisvert, veteran Christopher Preveziotis, DAV Cmdr. Bill May and R&K co-owners Kenneth and Don Reed. Photos by Sierra Williams

The Bunnell construction company R&K donated the labor needed to install the new shingles.

The Suncoast Roofers Supply team: Michael Ottlein, Davian Jerrel Lopez, Nick Rutter and Branch manager Billy Grimsley.

Cupola displays to be updated in summer

The Historical Society is also seeking Hotel Ormond memorabilia to add to the Cupola’s

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

When the infamous Hotel Ormond Cupola closes for the summer season, the historical displays inside will be undergoing a revitalization of sorts.

Cupola volunteer coordinator Linda Lampman said the project is a joint effort between herself and another former Ormond Beach Historical Society president, Bonda Garrison. The two are working together to reorganize the collection over the summer and clean up, or replace, some of the photographs on display that have been damaged over the years.

“We figured this summer we’ll get our new displays figured out and created,” Lampman said. “And then we’ll reorganize it a little bit so that we think we’ve got a nice timeline.”

The Cupola, located in Fortunato Park at the northeast corner of the Granada Bridge, is all that remains of the historic Hotel Ormond. The displays are managed by the Ormond Beach Historical Society and it was refurbished to resemble the days when it topped Hotel Ormond — and Ormond Beach’s skyline — for over 100 years.

The Cupola is open for tours from September to May, from 2-4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Hotel Ormond first opened in 1888, according to the Ormond Beach Historical Society’s website, and was later demolished in 1992.

Lampman said the Cupola structure was rescued from the city dump and restored in its new home in Fortunato Park, where it serves as a memorial to Hotel Ormond. “It [was] the signature skyline of the city of Ormond for over 100 years. And a lot of people that come in there, remember the hotel,” she said. “It was quite the centerpiece of the city.”

Over the years, she said, the Cupola has received donations of Hotel Ormond memorabilia and photos. The plan over the summer is to reorganize those donations into a cohesive timeline, in order to more accurately tell the history of Hotel Ormond to the public, Lampman said.

The Cupola has even put out the call for additional Hotel Ormond memorabilia donations. Because of the small space, she said, the Cupola asks residents interested in

donating their Hotel Ormond pieces to first reach out to the Historical Society.

Residents can email a photo of the item, with its dimensions, to office@ormondhistory.com, and leave their contact information as well. If it’s a good fit for the display and limited space, Lampman said, the Cupola team will reach back out.

Lampman suggested residents tour the Cupola over the final two weekends in May and return in September to see the new displays. She said her favorite part of residents and visitors touring the Cupola is hearing the stories of what people remember from when the hotel still dotted the skyline.

“It’s all about sharing the story of our local history,” she said, “and hearing what other people have to say.”

Business owner is graduating high school

Andrew Bixby, of Ormond Beach, launched his own lawn care business four years ago.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

When Andrew Bixby was 14 years old, he asked his parents for a weed whacker and an edger for his birthday.

He was in the lawn care industry already, after all. Bixby, of Ormond Beach, officially launched his own business, Bixby’s Lawn Care, LLC, four years ago. Now 18, he’s a couple weeks away from graduating from Seabreeze High School — and he knows exactly what he’ll be doing post-graduation.

“This is my future,” Andrew said. “So I might just keep on pushing.”

Andrew is a go-getter, said his dad, Daniel Bixby.

When Andrew was a kid, he used to go with his dad to cut his grandparent’s yard. One day when he was around 10 years old, Andrew decided to give it a try.

“I’d take him over after that and he’d cut their whole yard,” Daniel Bixby said.

He did that every summer for a couple years.

“My grandpa came downstairs one day and he was like, ‘Why don’t you try to go across the street and get the neighbor’s yard?’” Andrew recalled. “I said OK. Well, that didn’t really go too well, so I thought, I’m going to go into the neighborhood across the street from me. I’m going to go door to door and try and pick up some yards and it worked.”

He and friend started mowing 13 yards regularly. Andrew was 12 years old at the time.

“A lot of people were like, ‘Oh, just live your high school life. You need to stop working all the time. And honestly, I’m glad that I stuck to it and that I didn’t listen to any of those people.”

Two years later, he opened his business with his dad.

Now, in is fourth year of business, he has 40 accounts and offers lawn care maintenance throughout Volusia County.

Andrew is ambitious, said his mother, Tracie Bixby.

“I’m very proud of him,” she said. “He’s very respectful to people. Anybody who knows him always tells us what a wonderful young man he is and ... he works very hard.”

Andrew is also creative, she added. When he first started, he used to pile his lawn care equipment on top of his mower to pull it to the jobs. He realized he needed a new solution, so he hooked a wagon to his bike using PVC pipe to carry the equipment from job to job. He recently purchased his own trailer.

What motivates him? His family, friends and people who tell him to keep going — to “be a wolf” as a family friend often says.

“He tells me every time he sees me, ‘Go be a wolf, buddy,’” Andrew said. When he’s not working, Andrew enjoys fishing and going out on the water with his friends every Sunday.

On May 24, Andrew and the rest of his Seabreeze Class of 2024 will walk across the stage at the Ocean Center. It feels amazing to finally graduate, he said.

“A lot of people were like, ‘Oh, just live your high school life. You need to stop working all the time,’” Andrew said. “And honestly, I’m glad that I stuck to it and that I didn’t listen to any of those people.”

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ABOVE WATER by Garrett Chalfin, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

Even as a child, Andrew Bixby was interested in lawn care.

A photo of the Hotel Ormond Cupola from 1992, before the hotel was demolished. Courtesy of the Ormond Beach Historical Society

collection.

Andrew Bixby will graduate on May 24 from Seabreeze High School. Courtesy photo

Non Sequitur

Nancy

Mother Goose and Grimm

The Duplex

In the Bleachers Cornered Ziggy

The Fusco Brothers

SPORTS

New coach, same Bucs

After winning a state championship in 2023, Mainland is poised to make another deep playoff run.

Mainland football coach Jerrime

“Squatty” Bell said he is pleasantly surprised by the progress the Buccaneers have made during the first two weeks of spring practice.

“We’re further along than what I expected,” said Bell, who was hired to take over the program on March 20 after Travis Roland left to coach Camden County, Georgia.

Bell, a 2002 Mainland graduate, was the head coach at Atlantic the past three seasons. While the Bucs have lost eight

Division I signees from their 2023 state championship team, they never rebuild, they just reload. Defensive tackle Christian Hudson, a rising senior, has over 20 Division I offers and has been dominant in practice, Bell said.

Linebacker Dennis King III, a rising junior, keeps getting more offers by the day. He’s added offers from Florida, Miami, Maryland and Indiana in the past week.

“Alabama and Baylor have him as the top linebacker on their board in the ’26 class,” Bell said. “He may end up as a top three linebacker (nationally).”

Cornerback/wide receiver Phillip Moore has been in the Bucs’ program for four years and is poised to have a strong season, Bell said.

Rising junior Sebastian Johnson is next in line to start at quarterback after backing up senior Dennis Murray Jr. last year. Murray accounted for over 2,000 yards and 27 touchdowns passing and rushing last season.

“Sebastian has grown into a lead-

SPRING GAME

What: Spruce Creek jamboree

Who: Mainland, Sarasota Booker at Spruce Creek.

When: 6 p.m. May 22

Format: The Bucs will play two quarters each against Creek and Booker.

ership role on and off the field,” Bell said.

Mainland also has a couple of transfers in former Atlantic cornerback/running back Kwasie Kwaku and running back/linebacker Edward Williams from Appling County, Georgia.

Kwaku rushed for 1,184 yards and 15 touchdowns for the Sharks in nine games last season.

While transfers played a major part in Mainland’s run to the title last year, continuity has been the key to the Bucs’ sustained success. They have reached the playoffs in 30 consecutive seasons. Bell is their third consecutive coach since 2010 who also played on the team. He said Mainland will run the same offense and defense it has run in the past, and all of the assistant coaches from last year are back, except for an offensive line coach.

It won’t take long this fall for the Bucs to find out where they stand. Bell calls their first five games a murder’s row.

They open with University High at home; host two-time reigning state champ Cocoa in Week 2; travel to Class 7A Flagler Palm Coast in Week 3; go back on the road in Week 4 against Jacksonville Raines, a 10-win team last season; and continue their northern road swing in Week 5 at another defending state champ — Coffee High of Douglas, Georgia. Bell will get a first look at his team against another team in a spring jamboree May 22 at Spruce Creek. Mainland will play two quarters against the Hawks and two quarters against Sarasota Booker.

Campanella returns to Seabreeze as Sandcrabs’ new athletic director

Anthony Campanella was Seabreeze’s head baseball coach for 24 years.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Anthony Campanella is returning home.

“Campy,” as he is known to hundreds of former colleagues and baseball players he’s coached over the years, will be the new athletic director at Seabreeze High School. He spent 27 1/2 years at Seabreeze including 24 years as the head baseball coach before stepping down in 2017.

“I’m super excited,” he said. “Once a Sandcrab, always a Sandcrab. It’s

Anthony Campanella is returning to Seabreeze as the Sandcrabs’ new athletic director. Courtesy photo

something new, but it’s nothing I’m unfamiliar with. Working with everybody in the community, the students, the parents, it’s going to be electric.”

Campanella was the assistant athletic director at Seabreeze for several years, working with longtime AD Jerry Chandler. As the head baseball coach, he led the Sandcrabs to seven district titles and 16 playoff appearances. His teams advanced to the state final four in 1999, 2001 and 2003. His 2001 team finished as the Class 4A state runner-up.

Campanella went on to coach at Flagler Palm Coast for four seasons, including three seasons as the Bulldogs’ head coach. He was the head coach at Deltona High School for the past two years. He led the Wolves to the District 5-5A championship with

a 17-2 win over Pine Ridge earlier this month.

In 29 seasons as a head baseball coach, Campanella compiled a record of 477-298.

Campanella said Seabreeze Principal Tucker Harris reached out to Deltona Principal Mike Micallef about the possibility of Campanella returning home.

Campanella said his job at Deltona as a teacher on assignment is funded by Title I money. Micallef, a Seabreeze graduate and one of Campanella’s former players, told Campanella that he couldn’t guarantee he’d have a job for his former coach next year.

“He said (Harris) might be looking for an AD, and this might be a good thing for you,” Campanella said. “I talked it over with Mr. Harris with

the blessing of Mr. McCauliffe.” Campanella is committed to coaching the Orlando Scorpions club baseball team this summer. He begins his new job on July 1. He replaces Brad Montgomery, who has been the Sandcrabs’ AD since 2018. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to come back to Seabreeze,” he said. “The timing was perfect. I started my career there and I want to end it there. I’m looking forward to working with the coaches and making Seabreeze the best it can be athletically and of course educationally. I’ll still be working with players and hoping to enrich their lives in a different capacity. It’s something that is different and new.”

Mainland Bucs on the money with boys regional track championship

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mainland didn’t win an event at the Region 2-3A track and field championships on May 8. But the Buccaneer boys got contributions from a host of athletes to win the team title at Plant City High School. The Mainland boys have qualifiers in seven events for the Class 3A state championships on May 17 at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.

Flagler Palm Coast, Seabreeze and Matanzas each boasts an individual champ at regionals.

FPC’s Colby Cronk, who has been the top shot putter in Class 4A all season, heads into the 4A state championships on May 18 at UNF with a mark that is more than five feet farther than his closest com

petitor.

The junior won the Region 1-4A title at UNF with a personal record throw of 17.96 meters (58 feet, 11.25

inches). Cronk also qualified for state in discus and has the third longest discus throw among 4A state qualifiers.

Seabreeze senior Chandler Mitzo won the Region 2-3A javelin title with a throw of 51.27 meters (168 feet, 2 inches). Mitzo placed third at state last season.

Matanzas’ senior Sierra Howard won the girls 800-meter title with a time of 2:18.24 in Region 1-3A at UNF.

Mainland’s boys qualified athletes in three jumping events with Marquis McCants placing second in long jump and third in triple jump and Zion Noralus placing third in high jump. Noralus placed third at state last year with a height of 6 feet, 3.5 inches, which he matched at last week’s regional.

Other state qualifiers for the Mainland boys team include Emmanuel Yisrael in 110 hurdles, Demond Noelien in discus and the 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams. Yisrael placed

second at region and has the third best time in Class 3A this season at 14.38 seconds in an April 19 meet. Kiera Williams placed second in the girls 400-meter run (58.67 seconds) to qualify for state along with the 4x400 relay team. Also qualifying for the FPC boys were Tanner Cauley-Bennett and Chase Magee in pole vault, Elijah Thero, Zeli Hayworth and Jacob Stevenson in javelin and the 4x800 relay team. Hayworth placed second in the Class 3A meet last year when he was throwing for Seabreeze.

Maya Tyson qualified in both shot put and discus for the FPC girls. Olivia Gaines qualified in triple jump. FPC’s girls team also qualified in the 4x100 and 4x800 relays. Matanzas’ Jordan Youngman qualified in the 400 hurdles placing second at regional. The Pirates also qualified in the girls 4x400 relay.

Seabreeze senior Chandler Mitzo won the district javelin title on April 26 and followed that up with a regional championship. File photo by Michele Meyers

Mainland quarterback Sebastian Johnson passes during a 7-on-7 game at a USF camp last June.

Mainland’s Dennis King III (6) celebrates a defensive play with Zavier Mincey (1) and Bubba Westbrook (19) in a Nov. 17 playoff game against Rockledge. File photos by Michele Meyers

Jerrime “Squatty” Bell led Atlantic High for the past three seasons. Courtesy photo

INSERTION NOTICE OF CLERK’S SALE IN THE COUNTY COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-38896-COCI PELICAN BAY VILLAS HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, vs. PAMELA SUE NORTHCUTT,

LAS HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC, is the Plaintiff, and PAMELA SUE NORTHCUTT is the Defendant; I will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at Volusia.RealForeclose.com, on the 10th day of June, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure: Lot 38, Pelican Bay, Phase IV, Unit II, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Map Book 38, Pages 3638, Public Records of Volusia County, Florida Parcel ID No. 523612000380 Property address: 289 Gull Drive South, Daytona Beach, FL 32119 Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. ATTENTION: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administrator at Suite 300, Courthouse Annex, 125 E. Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114; Tel.: 386-257-6096 within two (2) working days of your receipt of the NOTICE OF SALE; if you are hearing impaired, call 1-800-955-8771; if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-955-8770. THIS IS NOT A COURT INFORMATION LINE. DATED this 8th day of May, 2024. /s/ ROBERT ROBINS, ESQUIRE P.O. BOX 1649 DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32115 (386) 252-5212 (386) 252-5713 (FAX) FLORIDA BAR NO.: 356026 RobertRobinsLaw@hotmail.com ATTORNEY FOR: PLAINTIFF May 16, 23, 2024 24-00237I

FIRST INSERTION AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2022 11756 CIDL LOANDEPOT.COM, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. JOSE BADILLO-MUNOZ A/K/A JOSE BADILLO MUNOZ A/K/A JOSE L. BADILLO MUNOZ, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in Civil Case No. 2022 11756 CIDL of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Volusia County, Deland, Florida, wherein LOANDEPOT.COM, LLC is Plaintiff and Jose Badillo-Munoz a/k/a Jose Badillo Munoz a/k/a Jose L. Badillo Munoz, et al., are Defendants, the Clerk of Court, LAURA E. ROTH, ESQ., will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www. volusia.realforeclose.com in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 18th day of June, 2024 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 95, Alexandria Pointe, according

FIRST INSERTION

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2024 10850 CIDL TOWNE MORTGAGE COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. JOSHUA J. PHINNEY, et al., Defendants. TO: MARISSA ETTLEMAN 3552 OMNI CIRCLE, EDGEWATER, FL 32141 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOT 11, BLOCK C, EAST WIND SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 39, PAGE 57, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it, on De Cubas & Lewis, P.A., Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is PO BOX 5026, CORAL SPRINGS, FL 33310 on or before JUN 24 2024, a date at least thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice in the (Please publish

to the plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 52, Pages 37-40, inclusive, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.

If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Ad-

in BUSINESS OBSERVER) and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.

To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096 Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court this 9 day of May 2024. LAURA E. ROTH As Clerk of the Court (SEAL) By /s/ Jennifer M. Hamilton As Deputy Clerk De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. Attorney for Plaintiff PO BOX 5026 CORAL SPRINGS, FL 33310 24-00462 May 16, 23, 2024 24-00243I FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024 10962 CIDL THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE1, Plaintiff, vs. AUGUSTO E. LOPEZ A/K/A AUGUSTO LOPEZ; MARISOL LOPEZ, Defendant(s). TO: Augusto E. Lopez a/k/a Augusto Lopez Last Known Residence: 1821 Springwood Lane Deltona, Florida 32725 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following described property in Volusia County, Florida: LOT 3, BLOCK 1690, REPLAT OF PORTION OF DELTONA LAKES, UNIT 9, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 28 AT PAGES 112 AND 113 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. Street Address: 1821 Springwood Lane, Deltona, Florida

ministration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 1 (800) 955-8770.

By: /s/Robyn Katz

Robyn Katz, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801

Phone: (407) 674-1850

Fax: (321) 248-0420

Email: MRService@mccalla.com

Fla. Bar No.: 146803 22-01690FL May 16, 23, 2024 24-00238I

PERIODS SET

FILED

ABOVE,

(2)

DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of SECOND publication of this Notice is May 9, 2024. /s/ Gary Markle GARY MARKLE, As Personal Representative Attorney and Personal Representative Giving Notice: /s/ Steven E. Gurian STEVEN E. GURIAN, ESQ., Attorney for Personal Representative EASY ESTATE PROBATE, PLLC 2601 South Bayshore Drive, 18th Floor Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 Tel: 1-833-973-3279 Fax: 1-833-927-3279 E-mail: SG@EasyEstateProbate.com Florida Bar No. 101511 May 9, 16, 2024 24-00232I

Map Book 9, Page 281, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. ATTENTION: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Avenue, Suite 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114,

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2024 10657 CIDL PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. DENNIS WEBER, et al., Defendants. TO: DENNIS WEBER 1200 9TH AVENUE, DELAND, FL 32724 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOTS 25, 26 AND 27, BLOCK 1, DAYTONA PARK ESTATES SECTION NO. D, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 23, PAGE 99, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy

(386) 257-6096, within two (2) days of your receipt of this Notice. If you are hearing impaired, call 1-800-955-8771; if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-955-8770.

THESE ARE NOT COURT INFORMATION LINES. To file a response, please contact Volusia County Clerk of Court, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Deland, FL 32724, Tel: (386) 736-5907.

Dated in Volusia County, Florida this 3RD day of May, 2024. /s/ FRED B. SHARE, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 256765 1092 Ridgewood Avenue Holly Hill, FL 32117 Telephone (386) 253-1030 Fax: (386) 248-2425 E-mail: fredshare@cfl.rr.com 2nd E-Mail: brobins@cfl.rr.com

Attorney for Plaintiff May 9, 16, 2024 24-00227I

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024 11304 PRDL IN RE: ESTATE OF KEVIN J. MCGLADE, aka KEVIN JAMES MCGLADE Deceased. The administration of the estate of KEVIN J. MCGLADE, also known as KEVIN JAMES MCGLADE, deceased,