CITY WATCH
OBPD announces award winners
The Ormond Beach Police Department announced its Citizen Appreciation Award winners in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
The award winners were: Catherine McCoy and the Falls Community, and Toni and Jeff Wright. McCoy and her team hosted a “Hot Dog and Hot Red” event, raising over $3,000 for OBPD’s Stop the Bleed kits.
The Wrights were selected for their continuous support of the agency, including helping to raise over $6,000 for the 2024 Volusia County Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida.
“We’re proud to recognize some incredible community members who go above and beyond in supporting the Ormond Beach Police Department,” OBPD wrote in its Facebook post. “These outstanding individuals were nominated by our officers and selected by our Awards Committee. Their dedication makes our community stronger and reminds us why we do what we do!”
Email Managing Editor
Jarleene Almenas at Jarleene@observerlocalnews. com
City to bid out Cassen Park redesign project
Construction on the Cassen Park redesign project could start as early as January 2025.
The Ormond Beach City Commission unanimously approved an intent to bid the estimated $2.8 million project at its meeting on Aug. 20, via the consent agenda. The project will increase parking spots from 39 to 53, with 48 slated for boat trailers. It will construct a new building for Granada Bait and Tackle shop, owned and operated by Ormond Beach resident Ike Leary. The new bait shop will include public restrooms.
City Commissioner Lori Tolland praised the design put forth by engineering firm Zev Cohen and Associates and landscape architect Marquis Latimer + Halback last fall, noting the inclusion of saltwater tolerant plants, and Ormond’s signature
Medjool palm tree.
“The commission later asked Zev Cohen to increase the percentage of native plants as to showcase Cassen Park as a jewel of natives in public places, and that came after they had their direction,” Tolland said.
She asked if the redesign project would be delayed if some of the plant materials were swapped to favor natives. She also put forth an idea to create a pollinator planting area to attract butterflies.
Dwight Durant, principal of Zev Cohen, said changes can be made until the project is constructed, and the costs may go up or down depending on the changes.
Tolland said the redesign proposal has gone beyond what she imagined for the park, and praised the inclusion of native plants.
“We need all hands on deck with real, serious commitments to this airport.”
County Councilman David Santiago on dedicating more of the advertising authorities’ budgets for the Daytona Beach International Airport. See Page 7A
“I’m proud that we’re moving in this direction,” Tolland said. “It is a trend across the whole United States and I think Ormond Beach is at the forefront of this trend.”
City Commission Travis Sargent said the redesign is an awesome project, but had one request.
“My only ask is that we can strive to get this completed before July 4th of 2025, so we can have a Fourth of July celebration in our new park,” Sargent said.
The city aims to bring a bid for approval to the commission at its Nov. 6 meeting.
When construction begins, portions of the park will be closed to the public, but the bait shop and at least one boat ramp will remain open, according to a city staff report.
Kent to host meeting Sept. 16
Volusia County Councilman Troy Kent will host a community meeting from 5-6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, at Holly Hill City Hall, located at 1065 S. Ridgewood Ave. Kent represents District 4, which includes Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-theSea, on the council. Residents may ask questions and voice concerns during the meeting. This is part of the quarterly District Dialogue 4 Residents series.
School resource officer agreement approved
The Volusia County School Board approved an agreement with the city of Ormond Beach to place a school resource officer at Ormond Beach Middle School.
The agreement, approved via the School Board’s consent agenda for its meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 27, will last one year, with additional one-year renewals, through June 30, 2029. The district is paying 50% of the officer’s salary — $27,113.80 — and the city will pay the remaining 50%. All middle and high schools must have have an SRO. As Ormond doesn’t have any high schools within its city limits, the OBMS position is the only one the city helps fund. City facilities to close for Labor Day holiday
Ormond Beach City Hall and all non-emergency facilities will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Facilities will reopen during regular operating hours on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
An overview of Cassen Park, as shown on a rendering by Marquis Latimer + Halback. Courtesy image
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Looking to 2045
Ormond Beach holds first public meeting for its comprehensive plan update
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Affordable housing. More trails. Roadway expansions projects. What should Ormond Beach prioritize as the city looks toward 2045?
The city continues to seek input for its comprehensive plan update. A community engagement meeting was held on Monday, Aug. 26, at City Hall, where residents had a chance to learn more about planning elements such as future land use, coastal management, capital improvements and cultural and historic resources by stopping at 14 different stations. The meeting was the first opportunity for the public to participate in updating the Comprehensive Plan Evaluation and Appraisal report, which is required by the state.
“The community engagement meeting is exactly that — it serves as an engagement opportunity for citizens to come out, to voice their opinions in a survey that we have, digitally or handwritten,” City Senior Planner Sarah Motes said. “... We’re going to take the information we receive tonight, along with the information from the surveys, to compile that and make changes to the specific elements.”
At least every seven years, Florida Statutes require local governments to look into amending their comprehensive plans. The last comprehensive plan update was completed in 2010 and planned for improvements needed to 2025. The city determined in 2017 that an update was not needed.
Motes said that the city is seeking feedback on what matters most to residents. The comprehensive plan is best described as the city’s roadmap for the future, she said.
“What do you see as opportunities for growth?” Motes said. “Where do you see improvements, changes?”
For example, do residents want to see more multimodal options — bike paths and sidewalks — in terms of transportation? What are their thoughts on the city’s utilities and annual Capital Improvement Plan process?
The city has also opted to include a cultural and historic resources element in its 2045 update, which is aimed at preserving historic, archeological and cultural resources.
Residents who attended the community engagement meeting got a chance to speak with Motes and other city employees about the different elements to be included in the report. Neighborhood Scoop was also present and provided free ice cream to attendees.
Among those who attended were community members part of Ormond MainStreet, the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Ormond Beach Historical Society. Immediate OBHS past president Dr. Philip Shapiro stressed the value of citizen involvement in the comprehensive plan update.
“I believe this is very important — that the city do this periodically, so that the citizens can see firsthand
“The community engagement meeting is exactly that — it serves as an engagement opportunity for citizens to come out, to voice their opinions in a survey that we have, digitally or handwritten.”
SARAH MOTES, city senior planner
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DEFINED
The city of Ormond Beach defined a comprehensive plan as follows on their website:
“A comprehensive plan is a state-required policy plan designed to guide the future growth and public infrastructure investment within Ormond Beach. Comprehensive plans are living and evolving documents written for a long-term outlook, typically 20 years. The plan provides goals, objectives, and policies that direct where development, redevelopment, and preservation within the city should occur, as well as public capital investments. The comprehensive plan is a vision and blueprint as to what a municipality desires to become in the future.”
what is evolving in our community and their input as to what our direction should be,” Shapiro said.
Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington said he expects that the residents who attended the meeting — about 75 — want to make sure that the city continues to protect its quality of life. This includes slow growth, native plants and getting ahead of issues such as transportation and coastal management.
When the city last updated its comprehensive plan, Partington said, one of the goals was to create concurrency where possible — trying to ensure necessary infrastructure was in place before, or at the same time, growth was occurring.
“That’s part of why we’ve always encouraged a slow growth rate, something that’s not out of control, per se, and then allow the roads and the schools and the water and all those kinds of things to catch up to it,” Partington said.
The city doesn’t have a lot of land for new growth, save for the land slated for Ormond Crossings and Plantation Oaks’ buildout. He’s hopeful that the I-95 and U.S. 1 interchange project (which is part of the governor’s $4 billion Moving Florida Forward infrastructure initiative, aimed at advancing construction on transportation projects) will be completed before either of those developments are completed.
The comprehensive plan update will help to take the city’s transportation to the next level, Assistant City Manager Shawn Finley said. When the city completed its last update in 2010, the mindset was focused on moving cars from point A to point B. That’s changed, Finley said, as the focus is now to ensure roads are safer, and effective, for all users: pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.
“Those are some of the big things that we’re looking at doing with this update — is realizing that, like every-
thing else, it’s always changing and the way that we have to look at it changes,” Finley said. “And so that means the direction that we take it adapts to what people are doing these days, and people want to be able to walk. They want to be able to ride bikes.”
In 2010, according to the U.S. census, Ormond Beach’s population count was 38,137. By the 2020 census, the population grew to 43,080 people.
The city also didn’t have the amount of traffic generated from companies such as UPS, Amazon and Margaritaville, which shuttles residents from Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach to its beach club in Ormond-by-the-Sea multiple times a day, Finley said. The city is aiming to “keep up with the times” and ensure projects — both internal and developer-generated — meet the needs of the community.
“As we see more people, are they going to continue to go onto Granada [Boulevard] or are they going to start looking for different roads to go?” Finley said. “Is there going to be more traffic that’s going to go on U.S. 1?”
U.S. 1 is “almost like a teenager of a road,” Finley said. It doesn’t have the volume that Granada does today, mainly because of the type of development along the U.S. 1 corridor. As that changes, Finley said the city wants to make sure the road is developed correctly. By 2045, some of the city’s western roads — Tymber Creek Road, Airport Road and Pineland Trail — are likely to see more traffic as growth happens in the area.
Finley said meeting participants were inquisitive of transportation needs and what the city plans to do
to address them.
“We all know that transportation is one of those things that people take very personally,” Finley said. “They all experience it. Everybody has an experience with transportation because uses transportation, use our roadways at least two times a day: Once to get here, and once to leave.”
Transportation is a critical element of the comprehensive plan, Partington said. So is coastal management.
“Particularly with storms seemingly being more and somewhat stronger, making sure we have a resilient coastline where we can endure storms better and recover from them more quickly, and then just protecting our property along the coastline and protecting A1A, I think is vital in the future,” Partington said.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The Ormond Beach Planning Board will lead the review of the comprehensive plan update, discussing each of the elements. The first element reviewed will be future land use, to be discussed at the board’s meeting on Sept. 12. The next community engagement meeting will be held on Jan. 16, 2025, where residents will be provided a summary and analysis of proposed amendments to the comprehensive plan. The Ormond Beach City Commission will review the amendments on first reading at its meeting on April 15. Want to take the survey? Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CompPlan2045UpdateSurvey.
Eric DeVriese, Bill Rice and Judith Stein examine a map during the community engagement meeting.
Ormond Beach MainStreet Executive Director Becky Parker gets free ice cream from Amanda Frick, owner of Neighborhood Scoop. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Flagler Beach resident opens art gift shop in Ormond Beach
Sea Dreams by Sara features works and wares by 38 local artists.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS
EDITOR
MANAGING
For as long as Flagler Beach resident Sara Meinking remembers, the summer season meant a trip down to the beach.
Growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, she and her family would vacation in the Daytona Beach and Daytona Beach Shores area. They had several souvenir and gift shops they loved to frequent, always bringing back reminders of their vacation back home — items, Meinking said, she still owns to this day.
That was the inspiration behind her new store, Sea Dreams by Sara, which opened in late May at 398 S. Atlantic Ave. in Ormond Beach.
“My overall desire was to provide a place that people could come and purchase a little piece of Florida, whether that was for their home locally, or while they were traveling and visiting,” Meinking said.
This is the first retail store that’s she’s ever opened. Meinking, who moved to the area in 2019, has a background in health care administration, having specialized in Alzheimer’s and dementia and worked as a memory care director in Palm Coast. After the COVID-19 pandemic, Meinking said she felt she
needed a career change.
She helped to open a local coffee shop in Flagler Beach for a bit, and then helped a friend who owned a store in Flagler Beach, as well. After that is when she started looking into opening her own store.
On Thursday, Aug. 22, she celebrated the opening of Sea Dreams by Sara with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce. The ceremony was attended by chamber members, local artists and Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington, who welcomed her to the community.
“This business looks beautiful,” he said. “It’s impressive and I think
people are going to love coming in here and just decompressing, looking at the beautiful creations that you and your artists have put together.”
Art has always been an important part of Meinking’s life. Having attended the Conservatory at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, she has a degree in music therapy.
When she opened Sea Dreams by Sara, her goal was to feature the works and wares of 12 artists. When she opened in May, she had 27 artists onboard.
To date, her store features pieces by 38 artists, and she has a waiting list.
“What I have found in Ormond
Beach is that there’s a true sense of art and I think that’s really exciting for the whole area,” Meinking said. She joined the chamber because she wanted to be a part of the community and help support other local businesses — that’s part of giving back, she said, which she is passionate about.
Sea Dreams by Sara will be hosting several fundraisers in the near future.
On Sept. 18, the store is hosting a Sip and Shop, benefitting Community Cats of Palm Coast. A $15 entry fee will include a glass of wine, hors d’oeuvres, and there will be raffle baskets. A percentage of all sales will go toward the nonprofit.
Next year, Meinking is partnering with
and she
to support other initiatives and nonprofits.
The store can also provide a space for organizations seeking an event location for fundraising, she added. Meinking said she and her assistant want to make sure everybody feels welcome in the store.
“I think it’s going to be a fun, new experience for locals and for tourists that are going to come in and see the shop and be pretty amazed at what they can afford to buy here, and be able to take home a little bit of memory of Florida with them,” she said.
Ribbon Cutting – Trident Sports Medicine
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Ribbon Cutting – Salty Drip IV
Halifax Urban Ministries for its Empty Bowls event,
hopes
Sara Meinking (third from left) cuts the ribbon for her new store on Thursday, Aug. 22. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
VCS agrees to salary package with union
The school agreement includes a salary package valued at $1 million and an increase in health insurance contributions.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Volusia County Schools and Volusia United Educators
Support have reached a settlement regarding pay and benefit increases, the district announced on Tuesday, Aug. 27. The agreement includes a salary package valued at $1 million, an increase in health insurance contribution from $565 a month to $605, a 50-cent per hour pay increase for speech paraprofessionals and an increase in translation supplement from $100 to $500, according to a press release by the school district.
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with VUE Support that reflects our commitment to our staff members who are critical to the operations of our district and the outcomes of our students,” Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin said. “Not only does this contract provide a well-deserved pay increase, but it also demonstrates our efforts to ensure the health and well-being of our employees through an increased health insurance contribution. Thank you to our employees, School Board, partners, community members and VUE for their continued support of VCS.”
The agreement is tentatively scheduled to be ratified during the week of Sept. 16, with the goal to present it to the Volusia County School Board for approval on Sept. 24.
“This truly was a collaborative partnership between both entities coming together to make life better and to provide
improvements for our support personnel,” VUE President Elizabeth Albert said at the School Board meeting Tuesday evening.
The increased contribution toward health insurance premiums is going to make a difference, she added.
The School Board also unanimously approved a 3% salary increase for schoolbased administrators at its meeting.
“Sometimes we have to wait a long time to get this so I’m glad that we’re able to do that sooner rather than later for our school-based administrators,” School Board member Ruben Colon said.
The Electrification Innovation Partnership aims to explore electrification in racing.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Ormond Beach is playing a role in the future of electric racing.
Two months ago, electrification and automation manufacturing company ABB and NASCAR announced the ABB NASCAR Electrification Innovation Partnership, which aims to explore high-performance electric racing and create opportunities for electrification in the sport, from race cars, infrastructure and STEM education. The partnership names ABB, which has two plants in Ormond Beach, as NASCAR’s official electrification partner.
And the companies’ new EV prototype — unveiled in July at the 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race and placed on display the Daytona Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Saturday, Aug. 24 — contains about 150 of ABB’s Ty-Rap cable ties, all made in Ormond Beach.
The partnership between ABB and NASCAR is the first step in broadcasting the current “energy transformation,” said Ralph Donati, ABB executive vice president. In his 10 years in the industry, he said he’s never seen such a push for electrification.
“The demand for electricity inside the U.S. is incredible,” Donati said. “... It’s been great the Ormond Beach facility because the product they do goes to utilities and high-end industrial manufacturers, so it’s a perfect situation for them.” ABB helps customers globally to optimize, electrify and decarbonize their operations, according to a press release. The goal of the company’s collaboration with NASCAR is to see how far electrification technology can be implemented, from racing to facility operations.
NASCAR is still committed to the use of combustion engines in racing. But it also has a goal to decarbonize operations and reduce its carbon footprint across its core operations by 2035, the press release states. ABB has become a founding partner of NASCAR IMPACT, a sustainability initiatives platform.
“There could not be a more optimal moment in time to announce our first IMPACT partner than in tandem with the debut of our prototype electric vehicle at the Chicago Street Race,” said Eric Nyquist, NASCAR senior vice president and chief IMPACT officer, in the press release.
“ABB is an industry leader and will help in efforts to decarbonize our operations as we pursue achieving net-zero operating emissions over the next decade.”
That could look like making NASCAR’s speedways and overall operations more energy efficient, Donati said.
He believes the demand for electrification is going to remain present, and likely increase, for at least the next decade, especially as more manufacturing companies return to the U.S. and companies continue implementing artificial intelligence and opening new data centers.
That will all require a lot of power, he said.
“How do we get more sustainable, reliable and safe power coming in?” Donati said.
“And I think that’s the first step right there.”
The ABB NASCAR EV prototype was developed in collaboration with NASCAR’s original equipment manufacturer partners, Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota. The track-
The board additionally approved a 3% pay increase for non-bargaining employees at level 10 and above.
Both groups will see their pay increases in their Sept. 30 paycheck, and then all non-bargaining employees, regardless of level, will receive their retroactive pay on their Oct. 15 paycheck.
tested electrified stock car was developed by the same engineers who built the Next Gen car, which debuted in 2022.
Since its unveiling in Chicago, the EV prototype has received a lot of great feedback, Donati said. At the Coke Zero Sugar 400, it was on display next to Richard Petty’s car.
“I think it was great for fans to be able to see that and it looked really cool out there,” Donati said.
At least 10 of the Ormond Beach factory workers were able to attend the Coke Zero Sugar 400 as well.
“A lot of folks that work for ABB and in my division, installation products, ... are big NASCAR fans too, so it was great to be able to show them some love because those folks have definitely worked hard over the past couple years to keep up, and I think, exceed some of the demand of our end customers,” Donati said.
ABB is hoping to use the prototype as an education tool, bringing the car and a driver to trade shows hosted by the National Electric Contractors Association and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. ABB is also hoping to use it to increase interest in STEM, Donati added.
“Obviously, with all this need for electricity, we need more engineers,” he said.
More electrical contractors and other industry workers will also be needed.
“We’re excited about the future,” Donati said. “We’re excited about the future with NASCAR and excited about the future of electricity.”
The ABB NASCAR EV prototype was unveiled at the 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race held in July. Courtesy photo
Flagler County christens new FireFlight
Flagler County welcomed its new FireFlight helicopter in a ceremony on Aug. 21 as the previous, 22-yearold FireFlight was decommissioned.
The FireFlight model 2968 — which has served the county since 2002 in wildfire suppression missions, as a trauma transport in a myriad of reconnaissance and rescue missions — was decommissioned in a ceremony at the Flagler Executive Airport as its replacement model was christened the county’s new FireFlight. The new FireFlight helicopter is an Airbus model H125, according to a Facebook post from Flagler County.
Representatives from Flagler County’s municipalities and other first responders attended the ceremony, the post said.
“We are not in the business of guarantees...but we are in the business of giving people [fighting] chances,” Flagler County Fire Chief
COPS CORNER
A 30-year-old Ormond Beach man was arrested for stealing a $35 bottle of gin from a local restaurant.
Police — which received multiple calls from nearby businesses regarding similar incidents — report that the restaurant’s bartender refused to serve the man when he came up to the outdoor bar and ordered a beer. The bartender said the man is known to frequent local restaurants and bars, order alcoholic beverages, and then leave without paying for them.
When the man was refused service, he “circled the block” before returning and grabbing a bottle of
Michael Tucker said.
Over the 22 years, FireFlight 2968 has: transported 797 patients to trauma centers, served on 851 wildfire suppression missions, dumped over 2 million gallons of water, helped on 282 search and rescue missions and 2,452 storm reconnaissance missions and supported 764 law enforcement missions.
For 20 years, the FireFlight team was lead by pilot Dana Morris, who retired in November 2022. According to the county’s website, FireFlight is “the first line of defense against wildfires” in Flagler County.
According to the Airbus website, the H125 model of the helicopter can reach speeds over 150 mph and can seat seven on board, including the pilots.
Jacksonville man dies in crash on I-95 near Ormond Beach
A 32-year-old Jacksonville man was killed in a crash on I-95 near Ormond Beach on Thursday, Aug. 22, Florida Highway Patrol reports.
The man, whose identity was not released, was traveling southbound
gin that was sitting on a bar prep area, according to the arrest report.
The man then ran out of the bar with the bottle as the bartender chased him. He ran into a nearby restaurant, where he continued to evade employees until he got away.
Police found him at an area restaurant, where he was also found to have stolen food and merchandise.
He was taken to jail.
AUG. 7
HANGRY THROWS
9:17 p.m. — Intersection of West Granada Boulevard and Florida East Coast Railway, Ormond Beach Weapon offense. Police arrested a 55-year-old DeLand man after he threw a rock at an unmarked police cruiser.
Earlier that evening, officers had received reports that a man was throwing sticks into the roadway and that it appeared he may be lighting fires along the sidewalk. When they went to check the area, they didn’t find anybody throwing sticks and
on I-95 and approaching mile marker 2744 in the inside lane when he lost control of his car around 10:23 p.m. As he began to cross the yellow solid line, the driver over corrected, according to FHP, resulting in his car running off the right shoulder of the interstate.
His car overturned several times and landed on its left side, striking multiple trees.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene. FHP reports the crash remains under investigation.
FCSO has a new device to detect explosives, drugs
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has a new device in the fight against criminals and to keep deputies safe. The MX908 is a handheld device for the identification of suspected illegal narcotics and explosives, as well as real-time chemical detection. The device can be used to analyze solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol samples in a matter of minutes.
The MX908 enables deputies to safely analyze trace amounts of substances without exposing them-
there were no fires along the road.
Later that night, an officer in an unmarked cruiser was driving westbound in the 300 block of West Granada Boulevard and approaching the railroad tracks when he saw a man pick up a large rock and throw it at his cruiser, hearing its thud when it struck the front lower fender, according to the police report.
The officer circled back around and activated his lights and sirens. When he got out of his car, he asked the man if he was really throwing rocks at cars, to which the man responded, “I’m hungry.”
The man was placed under arrest and taken to jail.
AUG. 24
FAST FOOD AND FURIOUS
2:38 p.m. — the 400 block of Palm Coast Parkway southwest, Palm Coast Battery. A man was arrested after throwing food and yelling at employees at a local fast food restaurant.
The restaurant manager told
selves to potentially lethal amounts of fentanyl or other deadly drugs or explosives. FSCO investigators have already used the device multiple times in the field, including during undercover operations, and assisted the Special Investigations Unit in identifying illegal narcotics without the risk of exposure.
With the FCSO’s previous testing methods, investigators would need a substantial quantity of a substance to sample in order to use a traditional drug testing kit. The MX908 cannot only test residue faster and more accurately, it can detect remnants of drugs not visible to the human eye. This feature of analyzing residue and trace-level amounts previously untestable allows deputies to detain a suspect, recommend charges, and potentially save lives from the harmful impacts of illegal drugs. Testing with a traditional kit in similar cases would possibly result in having to let a suspect go and wait for a formal lab report from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The MX908 has many modes and uses. Its primary use is “Drug Hunter” mode, which not only analyzes
Sheriff’s Office deputies she told a male and female couple to leave the building after they began yelling at one of her 16-year-old employees, according to an arrest report.
The couple then began taking their anger out on the manager, where the female suspect continued yelling at the manager and the male suspect threw an entire tray of food at her.
The tray hit the wall and sprayed food all over the manager. Surveillance video showed the couple got angry in the first place over the card machine not working, the report said.
The couple drove off, but the surveillance footage recorded the license off of the gray Tesla they were driving, and deputies were able to track the suspects down to their home in Palm Coast.
TARGET PRACTICE
trace amounts of drugs, but can also simultaneously identify mixed samples of street drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines with fentanyl. No sample preparation is required with heroin like other analysis techniques.
The device also has modes to detect other dangerous substances besides narcotics. In “Explosive Hunter” mode, investigators can detect threats from military and commercial grade explosives to homemade explosive materials. In the “Chemical Warfare Hunter” mode, the MX908 can detect potentially deadly chemical threats as well as traditional chemical agents. This includes even Novichok nerve agents, also known as A-series agents, which are among the deadliest and hardest chemical agents to detect.
The MX908 cost $101,525.49 and was paid for using state funding from the FDLE State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication program. This grant was established in 2023 to conduct investigations designed to combat illegal fentanyl activity and provide reimbursement for fentanylrelated investigative operations.
left a neighbor’s car damaged and almost injured two deputies.
A resident on County Road 305 heard gunfire coming from a neighbors home, and Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the home to find the car had five bullet holes in it plus shattered windows, according to a press release. The neighbor’s garage door also had several bullet holes.
The deputies began to investigate only to have to duck for cover as more gunfire started, coming from the woods between two homes, hitting trees near where the deputies stood.
11 a.m. — County Road 305, Bunnell Culpable negligence. A couple in Bunnell could be facing criminal charges after their target practice
After narrowing down the home, deputies confronted the suspects, who were shooting their revolver in the backyard. The rounds were going through the “target” — a wood pile — into the woods between the properties. In fact, the wood pile did not have any new bullet holes, but deputies found plenty of bullet holes in the surrounding trees. No one was injured during the suspects’ target practice.
BUSINESS OBSERVER
Volusia officials push for more marketing of DAB
The County Council tabled approval of advertising authorities’ budgets, deeming airport a priority.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
The Volusia County Council wants the county’s three advertising authorities to focus more on marketing the Daytona Beach International Airport.
On Tuesday, Aug. 20, the County Council unanimously voted to table the approval of the budgets for the Halifax Area Advertising Authority, Southeast Volusia Advertising Authority and the West Volusia Advertising Authority, wanting funds to be redistributed to favor airport promotion. This comes after the airport announced it will be adding Breeze Airways as a new carrier, beginning Nov. 14, as well as the addition of a new route to Hartford, Connecticut, starting Nov. 8 by Avelo Airlines, which began flying out of DAB to New Haven, Connecticut, last June. To attract Avelo, the County Council approved the creation of a $1 million fund to mitigate the financial risk of the airline’s start-up costs.
“We need all hands on deck with real, serious commitments to this airport,” County Councilman David Santiago said. “... We’re making significant investments as a council and I want to make sure that our partners are doing the same thing.”
The Halifax Area Advertising Authority has the largest planned budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, at over $20.2 million. Southeast Volusia’s is planning for about $6.3 million and West Volusia’s budget is about $1.8 million.
The Halifax Area Advertising Authority originally budgeted $150,000 toward airport marketing. Executive Director Lori Campbell
Baker said the same amount was budgeted in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, but only $50,000 was used, which was spent on marketing Avelo.
“We don’t want to have a big line item budget that doesn’t get to get spent,” Baker said.
But, she added, if the authority needed more funds for airport marketing, the board could approve dollars to be moved around in the budget.
Once the new routes start — including three Breeze Airways routes that will launch in February 2025 — DAB will service 20 markets, an increase of 1,000% since 2021, said Cyrus Callum, county director of aviation and economic resources.
Avelo has used about $500,000 of county’s risk fund after suspending its service between DAB and Wilmington Airport in Delaware, but the county has seen a $6.1 million economic development impact overall thanks to the airline.
With that in mind. Santiago said he believed $150,000 for airport promotions to be too low.
“I want to see some serious numbers behind these markets,” he said.
County Councilman Troy Kent praised Santiago for bringing up the issue, which may be perceived as an uncomfortable topic.
“But you get one bite at this apple and it’s tonight, and because of one’s
person’s leadership on this issue, we are going to see, hopefully, a change that several of us up here have talked about, we would like to see, because we want that airport wildly successful,” Kent said. “And there’s money in their budgets to help with this.”
Promoting the airport is a “win for the entire county,” County Council Chair Jeff Brower said.
“The airport is such an attractive airport to bring people from all over the United States and outside of the United States,” he said.
The Southeast Volusia and West Volusia Advertising Authorities had $50,000 and $7,500 budgeted for airport promotions, respectively.
County Councilman Don Dempsey — who was in favor of the Halifax Area and Southeast Volusia Advertising Authorities upping their budgeted funds for the airport, particularly to ensure Avelo continues to service DAB, in light of its departure from Melbourne Orlando International Airport — hoped that the council would support West Volusia’s budget remaining as presented. It’s the authority with the smallest budget.
“The airport’s an east side thing,” he said.
The budgets will come back to the council for review at its meeting on Sept. 17. They need to be approved prior to Oct. 1.
Hunter’s Ridge developer to pay interest on concurrency payment
The developer owed Flagler County Schools
$1.84 million on their 2022 impact fee credit agreement.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
U.S. Capital Alliance LLC, the developer of Hunter’s Ridge, has agreed to fulfill its impact fee credit agreement with Flagler Schools by Oct. 31 after missing several deadlines.
The developer owes the district $1.84 million.
U.S. Captial Alliance agreed on May 16, 2022, to pay Flagler Schools $3 million relating to the part of the Hunter’s Ridge development in South Flagler County. Of that amount, $2 million was for impact fee credits with $1 million paid as a donation in return for Flagler Schools consenting to the developer’s notice of a proposed change to terminate its obligation to provide the district with a 45-acre school site.
The developer made payments of $534,600 on June 20, 2022, and $621,300 on May 11, 2023, totaling $1,155,900 with the remainder of the $3 million due by Nov. 16, 2023.
In a conference call a month ago, the developer agreed to make a payment of $343,500 once the Woodside development’s sale closed the following week. When the district did not receive that payment, it sent a letter on Aug. 9 stating the company was in breach of the agreement.
William Whitson, the school district’s intergovernmental planner, told the board at an Aug. 20 workshop that a new agreement was then reached with the developer to pay the remaining amount by Oct. 31.
Breaking The Stigma Around Hearing Aids
Dr. Indira Álvarez, Clinical Director & Owner Palm Coast Hearing Center
According to Healthy Hearing, 30 million people in the United States suffer from hearing loss, yet only about 15 percent of that group have ever worn a hearing aid. This is definitely true in Palm Coast and Ormond Beach. From my experience, about 1 in 10 patients who have treatable hearing loss refuse treatment.
Most of the time it is not cost, it is because hearing aids have unfair stigmas attached to them.
Below are the top five hearing aid stigmas that I see and the truth that breaks them.
They are ugly - This is by far the biggest deterrent people have when considering hearing aids. Many people think that hearing aids are bulky, uncomfortable and embarrassing. However, this is far from the truth. For years now, hearing aid manufacturers have been able to create smaller, less visible amplification devices that sit comfortably within the ears. Although hearing aids have not become as trendy as glasses (yet!), they are also not ugly and most aren’t even noticeable!
They are expensive - Another common worry I hear from
patients is the price of their hearing aids. Although hearing aids can be expensive-ranging from $2000 to more than $6000 for a pair if you don’t have insurance-consider their worth. Your hearing is important! You want to hear and understand your children and communicate confidently. If cost is your biggest worry, consider pursuing payment options. We partner with a company that offers loans, allowing patients to make small monthly payments for their hearing aids.
They are easily damagedPeople don’t want to shell out thousands of dollars on devices that may or may not work and that might easily break. Palm Coast Hearing Center ensures that your aids are not only reli-
able and durable but also fit to your individual prescription. All our devices come with comprehensive warranties as well as loss and damage insurance coverage included in their price.
They aren’t worth it - Some people worry that they won’t use their hearing aids or that wearing them won’t make a difference. Both ideas must be addressed
separately. First, hearing aids are so worth it! They not only amplify sound for better hearing, but they also discourage brain atrophy. Hearing loss deprives the brain of certain stimuli, causing cognitive decline. According to a 2019 study, hearing loss is associated with a significant increase in the risk of dementia, especially in patients aged 45 to 64 years. Their findings suggest that implementing early hearing protection, screenings, and the use of hearing aids may help reduce this potential risk factor for dementia. Of course, hearing aids can be a benefit to you only if you wear them every day! You decide whether to abide by the rule or not. By wearing them inconsistently, you make it more difficult for your brain to readjust to normal hearing once you use your aids again.
They make me look oldWe already covered that hearing aids are smaller and less noticeable than they used to be, but we should also mention that they are also used by people of all ages. In fact, a WHO report from 2015 forecasted that 1.1 billion teens and young adults would injure their hearing permanently due to excessive use of headphones and louder and louder music festivals. Also, people with hearing loss
The board was concerned that not penalizing U.S. Capital Alliance in some form would send the wrong message to developers in the future.
“In essence, we’ve given them an interest free loan for eight months,” School Board Chair Will Furry said. “We had to call them. They didn’t even ask for an extension. I don’t want to send that message that Flagler Schools is giving interest free loans. Their payment should include interest that we lost.”
Furry said Patty Wormeck, Flagler Schools’ director of finance, calculated the interest owed.
The first payment of the $1.84 million was due days after the Aug. 20 business meeting with the remainder plus the interest due by Oct. 31. The dates were set based on two closings the developer had scheduled this month and in mid October, said attorney Chris Wilson, who represents the board on concurrency issues.
Wilson said consequences for the company defaulting were not written into the original agreement, which was unusual, but if the developer does not meet its scheduled obligation again it could be in danger of not being issued further permits from the county.
When discussing adding interest to the agreement, board member Colleen Conklin said, “Whatever we do is going to set a precedent. Going back negotiating for interest payment may set everybody ablaze. It sends a message that we are serious, that this is not something to take lightly.”
At the workshop, the board requested to add $69,000 in interest to the total. By the end of the workshop, Capital Alliance agreed in an email to also pay the interest by the amended agreement’s deadline. The board approved the agreement with the interest at its business meeting that night.
who avoid amplification seem older because they are constantly asking others to repeat themselves or are struggling to keep up a steady conversation. I often ask my patients, what do you think makes you look older? Constantly asking others to repeat or wearing barely noticeable amplification that allows you to enjoy AND keep up with the conversation?
At Palm Coast Hearing Center, our mission is to not only provide the best quality hearing care possible, but also to educate the community and help all patients make informed decisions so they can get the care they need and deserve. Want to learn more about hearing health? Visit our website at palmcoasthearingcenter.com and click the “About” button, then “Helpful Articles”. You can also schedule an appointment online. We also have a second location to serve you in Ormond Beach at www. ormondhearingcenter.com.
The Daytona Beach international Airport. Photo courtesy of DAB/David Keith
Texas Roadhouse ends farmer’s market
The restaurant had been hosting a weekly farmer’s market without a permit.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Palm Coast’s Texas Roadhouse will not be seeking a permit to continue its weekly farmer’s market.
The restaurant had been hosting its farmer’s market for almost two months, according to its Facebook event posts. But, the events had not been permitted through the city of Palm Coast.
Communications Director Brittany Kershaw said the city did not shut the event down.
The city received a complaint from a resident, which is when the special events team became aware of the event.
On Aug. 13, a code enforcement officer stopped by the restaurant to speak to the event organizer, though a farmer’s market event was not being held that day.
Kershaw said the officer offered to help the organizer through the special events permit process but, on Aug. 14, a Facebook post circulated among Palm Coast residents announcing the closure of the market and the restaurant’s monthly Community Night events.
“The truth of the matter is that we were made aware of an event, and we reached out and asked that they follow the process that set out for all events in the city of Palm Coast,” Kershaw said.
Site development coordinator Jacqueline Gonzalez said that to host an event like a farmer’s market, event organizers have to be approved by the SERT board, and the permits are only good for three months at a time.
Community Recreation Supervisor Geena Catalano said the organizer fills out a special event application, which is then reviewed by the multiple departments that make up SERT.
Kershaw said the city began to receive negative feedback from the post announcing the event’s end and issued a community bulletin explaining the event organizer had been asked to attend a SERT meet ing to apply for a permit.
“It is important to note that at no point did any city official suggest terminating the event,” the bulletin said. “Our goal is simply to ensure that the event is safe, well-coordinated, and properly documented.”
But, in the week leading up to the Aug. 26 SERT meeting, Gonzalez received an email from Dan Cassidy, a Texas Roadhouse corporate employee, declining attend-
ing the meeting.
“I appreciate you taking the time to explain the process, but I think we will be moving away from doing these,” the email read.
Event organizer and Store Marketer Debs Pooler declined to comment, referring the Observer to corporate. A response from the corporate team was not available in time for this publication.
Gonzalez said the restaurant was not fined, nor was any code case opened.
The permitting process can be complicated because of the number of code ordinances, but, Kershaw said, the SERT team walks permit applicants through the process.
“At the end of the day, I don’t believe that it was the city’s action that discouraged this event from going on,” Kershaw said.
If the application had been completed and approved, there may have been things that needed to be changed about the Texas Roadhouse event to be in compliance with city code. For example, Gonzalez said, per the code, special events can only be held up to twice a month, and the organizer needs permission from the landowner.
Gonzalez said Palm Coast is also planning to launch a new online portal on Sept. 2 to make the application process event easier for events.
Unemployment is up in Flagler, Ormond
Flagler County unenmployment rate jumped to 4.6%, Ormond Beach to 4%.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Flagler County’s unemployment numbers have increased almost half a percent in the last month, jumping up to 4.6% from 4.2%, according to the Florida Commerce Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
That is over a full percentage point higher than Florida’s July 2024 average of 3.3%, and eclipses the nation’s July rate of 4.3%, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In Ormond Beach, there is a 4% unemployment rate as of June, up 0.7% from May. The bureau compiles Ormond Beach’s unemployment numbers in the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach census area.
When it comes to unem -
BIZ BUZZ
Peach Valley Café to close Ormond East location
Peach Valley Café will close its Ormond East location at 185 E. Granada Blvd. after Labor Day.
“It is with great sadness we announce that, due to loss of lease, our Ormond East location will close permanently after service on Labor Day,” the chain announced on Aug. 27 on its Facebook page.
“While we have had the great joy of serving you at this particular location for 23 years, this doesn’t end the Peach Val-
TRIBUTES
Michael “Mike” Peter Baldwin
May 11, 1944 – August 21, 2024
Michael “Mike” Peter Baldwin, a devoted family man, veteran, and community servant, passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 80. Mike lived a life marked by dedication, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those around him.
Mike’s service to his country began with his time in the United States Army. After his military service, he continued his dedication to public service through a long career with the United States Postal Service.
A respected member of his community, and known as Lion Big Mike to many, he was an active participant in the International Lions Club and the Elks Club. He contributed his time and energy to numerous charitable causes and also was a volunteer van driver for the Disabled American Veterans for many years. Mike is survived by his wife, Maria Baldwin, with whom he shared a life full of love and partnership. As a father, he was a pillar of support and guidance to his children, Sandra Baldwin West and spouse William Perry West, Loretta Baldwin, Michael Baldwin and spouse Janet Baldwin. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Jacquelynn, Matthew, and Jenna Baldwin, who brought him immense joy,
pride, and lots of ice cream.
Mike is also survived by his brothers, Gerald Baldwin and Danny Baldwin, New Jersey and brother-in-law Andrew Zic.
Mike’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of service, love, and community spirit will endure. He will be remembered for his selfless contributions.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Sunday, September 15th at 2pm at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home in Ormond Beach, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ormond Beach Lions Club organization in Mike’s honor.
ployment numbers, it’s helpful to remember the numbers show trends and the areas being impacted by previous economic changes, wrote Ormond Beach Economic Development Director Brian Rademacher in an email to the Observer.
“Employment numbers are a lagging indicator because they reflect changes in the economy that have already occurred,” he wrote.
Despite the recent reported increase of unemployment numbers, Ormond Beach, he wrote, has been performing well. Over the last several years, he wrote, Ormond Beach has seen an uptick in employment in manufacturing and professional and business services, bringing more and well-paying jobs to the area.
On the city’s Economic Development Dashboard, the city tracks and predicts trends and jobs growth, predicting almost 38,000 jobs in 2024 and continuing upward over the next 10 years.
Rademacher said that Volu-
ley Café presence in our area,” the post stated. “We encourage you to visit our Ormond West location just three miles over the bridge where you will find the same smiling faces and delicious food you have come to enjoy over the years.
The Ormond West restaurant is located at 1185 W. Granada Blvd., Suite 1.
Votran to adjust operations for Labor Day
Votran’s routes and services will be modified on Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Riders are
sia County saw an increase in employment in almost all sectors during the second quarter.
Areas like Flagler County and Ormond Beach also rely on tourism, which fluctuates throughout the year. Rademacher said that Ormond’s tourism season is typically in the spring, March to May, and again in the fall. Regional tourism, he wrote, is driven by events held year-round.
Industries like hotels, restaurants and retails stores typically see the most fluctuation from tourism, he wrote. But part of Ormond Beach’s economic development strategy is its business retention program, which includes meeting with businesses in target industries and working with regional partners to develop initiatives and good relationships.
“These efforts can go a long way in helping people connect with available jobs and let businesses know about the resources available to them,” Rademacher said.
encouraged to plan their trips accordingly.
Routes 1, 3, 4, 10, 15, and 17 will operate on their regular Sunday schedule from the Intermodal Transit Facility at the Ocean Center’s parking garage. Votran Gold Service will offer limited service in East Volusia only. However, most other routes and services, including the New Smyrna Beach Flex and the DeLand SunRail Circulator, will not operate. Additionally, VoRide will not be in service. Regular service will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 3. Riders can visit www.votran.org or use the myStop mobile app for more information.
REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
House near Hammock Dunes sells for $6M
Ahome at 368 Ocean Crest Drive in Palm Coast was the top real estate transaction in Palm Coast and Flagler County for Aug. 1521. The home sold on Aug. 20 for $6 million. Built in 2015 the home is a 6/8 and has ocean views, an infinity-edge pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen and 7,733 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $1,170,000.
SIERRA
Condos
The condo at 900 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 841, in Ocean Hammock, sold on Aug. 16 for $930,000. It is a 3/3 and has 2,003 square feet. It last sold in 2003 for $589,800.
The condo at 300 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 241, in Ocean Hammock, sold on Aug. 20 for $600,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,003 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $180,000.
The condo at 3580 S. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 602, in Flagler Beach sold on Aug. 15 for $385,000. Built in 1982, it is a 2/2 and has 1,358 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $224,900.
The condo at 1601 N. Central Ave., Unit 102, in Flagler Beach sold on Aug. 16 for $305,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,215 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $150,000.
The condo at 46 Club House Drive, Unit 106, sold on Aug. 20 for $185,000. Built in 1977, it is a 2/2 and has 986 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $112,500.
PALM COAST
Plantation Bay
The house at 421 Wingspan Drive sold on Aug. 19 for $1,150,000. Built in 2008, the house is a 5/7 and has a heated pool, a jacuzzi and 4,337 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $675,00.
Cypress Knolls
The house at 6 Elder Place sold on Aug. 16 for $564,000. Built in 2023, it is a 4/3 and has 2,500 square feet.
Grand Haven
The house at 39 Osprey Circle sold on Aug. 15 for
square feet. It last sold in 2001 for $95,000.
FLAGLER BEACH
No subdivision The house at 1209 N. Central Ave. sold on Aug. 16 for $1,010,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 6/4 and has 3,920 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $450,000.
The house at 491 N. 10th St. sold on Aug. 15 for $825,000. Built in 1987, it has a pool, a boathouse, a boat lift, a dock and 1,963 square feet.It last sold in 2011 for $300,000.
The house at 1305 N. Day-
tona Ave. sold on Aug. 20 for $775,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 4/3 and has a rooftop deck, a pool, outdoor shower and 2,782 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $575,000.
Fuquay
The house at 2113 S. Flagler Ave. sold on Aug. 16 for $550,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 5/3 and has a pool and 1,980 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $225,000.
The house at 2139 S. Daytona Ave. sold on Aug. 15 for $705,000. Built in 2002, it is a 5/3 and has a deck, hot tub, outdoor shower and 2,986 square feet. It last sold in 2001 for $95,000.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
Oceanfront Ormond home tops sales list
Ahouse at 335 S. Atlantic Ave. was the top real estate transaction for Aug 16-23 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. The oceanfront home sold on Aug. 23 for $1.4 million. Built in 1960, the main house is a 4/2.5 and has a 1/1 guest house atop a detached garage, a fireplace and 2,333 square feet. It last sold in 1999 for $220,000.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 1051 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 1203, sold on Aug. 19 for $475,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,200 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $340,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Breakaway Trails
The house at 17 Winding Creek Way sold on Aug. 23 for $1.08 million. Built in 1987, the house is a 5/4 with two half baths and has a fireplace, a pool and 4,192 square feet.
Daytona Pines
The manufactured house at 1131 Avenue F sold on Aug. 21 for $120,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 2/1.5 and has 812 square feet. It last sold on June 4 for $90,000.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 1209 Kirkpatrick Circle sold on Aug. 21 for $833,230. Built in 2004, the house is a 5/3.5 and has a pool, infrared sauna and 3,406 square feet. It last sold
in 2018 for $556,300.
The house at 4117 Salina Lane sold on Aug. 21 for $525,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace and 2,275 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $295,000.
The house at 3323 Bailey Ann Drive sold on Aug. 23 for $380,000. Built in 2021, the duplex house is a 2/2 and has 1,687 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $360,000.
The house at 1414 Dolph Circle sold on Aug. 23 for $635,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,576 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $433,100.
New Britain The townhome at 4 Chippingwood Lane sold on Aug. 21 for $325,700. Built in 1979, the townhome is a 2/2.5 and has 1,386 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $172,000.
Northbrook
The house at 1312 Overbrook Drive sold on Aug. 16 for $310,000. Built in 1979, the
house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,718 square feet.
Oak Forest The house at 35 Sycamore Circle sold on Aug. 16 for $440,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,824 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $240,000.
Ormond Ridge The house at 396 Collins Street sold on Aug. 19 for $310,000. Built in 1971, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,381 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $202,500.
Village of Pine Run
The house at 73 Village Drive sold on Aug. 19 for $435,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,123 square feet. It last sold in 2000 for $128,000.
Winding Woods
The house at 7 Winding Woods Trail sold on Aug. 23 for $309,900. Built in 1988, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,214 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $225,000.
Woodmere South The house at 837 Lindenwood Circle W. sold on Aug. 21 for $400,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,619 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $235,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Roberta Heights The house at 174 Laurie Drive sold on Aug. 16 for $389,000. Built in 1956, the house is a 2/1 and has a pool and 972 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $225,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Seminole Palms
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
LETTERS
Taxes
are too high
Dear Editor:
My least favorite days of the year are the days I succumb to the annual extortion by government via local property tax bill, filing federal tax return and the daily dings of the passive-aggressive Sales Tax — I literally cringe.
To further my own dismay, over the years I have taken it upon myself to actually research what these dif-
ferent bodies of government decide to spend my money on. For example, $1.6 million was spent from National Science Foundation grants to walk lizards on a treadmill (It’s true. Look it up). It’s not so crazy to know how the federal government has run up a debt totaling $35+ trillion with that kind of insane spending.
At the state level, I remember the budget being about $80 billion or so in 2018 after 170 years since Florida’s founding. In less than a decade since, it’s crossed over $115 billion. A substantial increase in
Make yourself at home
such a short time. On to county, the School Board has an interesting stat, with a budget of about $1.2 billion and an enrollment of about 57k students, the “cost per student” this year is about $21k. Yet the state’s Personalized Education Program (“money follows student”) allocation is only 1/3 of that. Speaks volumes, doesn’t it? Last, but certainly not least, Ormond Beach. As regular readers with exceptional memories may recall from a couple of my previous Letters to the Editor regarding
public landscaping a few years ago, there can be substantial and ongoing cost savings, as well as esthetic enhancement, by going from highmaintenance grass landscaping to Florida-native. Not only does this make fiscal sense, but safety and environmental sense as well.
JOE HANNOUSH Ormond Beach
Send letters up to 400 words to Jarleene@observerlocalnews.com.
Tale of tooth extraction: It was the worst of times
I thought we were here for a tooth. Who said anything about bones?
BRIAN
MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
When I finally sat down for my tooth extraction, I thought I was prepared. I knew I was about to feel pressure in my jaw, that recovery could take months, that it would cost — gasp — thousands of dollars. The only consolation was at least I wouldn’t have to get blood drawn.
“We’ll just need to draw some blood,” the nice young lady in scrubs said as I sat down on the dentist’s chair.
YOUR TOWN
Modern Minds STEM Program partners with Rotomation
Modern Minds Learning STEM program students in Ormond Beach got an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of engineering and automation through a collaboration with local manufacturer Rotomation Inc., a press release announced.
Rotomation, which makes pneumatic rotary actuators, is based in the Ormond Beach Airport Business Park. The collaboration initiative between the company and Modern Minds aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications, providing students with hands-on experience.
“It’s been an incredible opportunity to see the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity,” said Morgan Philips, program teacher at Modern Minds Learning STEM Program. “Programs like these are essential in sparking interest and providing a solid foundation for future STEM careers.”
The collaboration involved several interactive workshops led by Rotomation President Norman Lane, Engineer Charlie Quint and Lead Assembler Coy Bass. Students were exposed to new technologies used in the design and manufacturing of pneumatic rotary actuators and automation solutions. The workshops covered product assembly and testing, research and development, machinery operations and programming. Participants also learned about business management applications, departmental roles and internship opportunities.
“By partnering with local schools, we hope to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators,” Lane said in the press release.
Wait, what? I get lightheaded just thinking about having my blood drawn. But what else could I do but roll up my sleeve?
“We need the blood for the bone graft,” the nice young lady said, probably attempting to ease my nerves.
It had the opposite effect. I thought we were here for a tooth. Who said anything about bones?
Maybe I should have watched the explainer video that had been emailed to me a few days earlier.
My heart was pounding as the chair was reclined to 180 degrees and beyond.
Some numbing goo was then swabbed onto my gums. Not so bad — until I realized the numbing goo was a precursor to the numbing shot.
“This will pinch,” said the den-
September is Library Card Sign-up Month
Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card.
Throughout the school year, public librarians and library staff will assist parents and caregivers with saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for students.
From free access to STEAM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, and technology workshops to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost-effective back-to-school supplies available.
“A library card is an individual’s passport to learning, knowledge, and resources. The card gives access to thousands of programs, databases, and services online and in each of our 14 branch locations,” said Barry KuKes, Marketing Specialist of the Volusia County Public Library.
“The card is free to Volusia County residents, and our website, www. volusialibrary.org is open 24/7.”
If you have been thinking of getting a library card, there is no better time than right now to visit your nearby branch location. For a list of branches, visit https://volusialibrary. org/VCPLbranches.html.
Vince Carter’s Embassy of Hope Gala makes donation to Halifax Health Foundation
As Vince Carter, the NBA legend and community advocate, prepares to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, his philanthropic efforts through the Embassy of Hope Foundation continue to make an impact on the Daytona Beach area with a recent $9,000 donation to the Halifax Health Foundation.
tist, who had just entered the room, his face covered with a mask. The bright lights in the ceiling made it impossible for me to tell whether he was here to inflict pain with the intent to help me, or to inflict pain because he enjoyed it.
In went the needle. I cringed. I gripped the arm rests. I flexed every muscle in my body. Maybe I needed more numbing goo?
For most of the procedure, I kept my eyes closed, which seemed to give me superhuman hearing. Every sound took on grave meaning deep in the cave of my mouth: plink, scrape, buzz, crunch.
Surely, the tooth is out by now, I thought. But then they went back for more. I heard voices in the room mumbling secrets to each other. I was the only one not allowed to know what was going on. Then again, why bother talking to the guy
Founded in 1998, the Embassy of Hope Foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
For the past 24 years, Vince Carter and his mother, Dr. Michelle Carter, have hosted the annual Vince Carter Charity Gala and basketball camp. Through these initiatives, the Embassy of Hope Foundation has contributed over $2 million to various causes across the United States and Canada, with over $125,000 donated directly to the Halifax Health Foundation, a press release states.
This year’s gala, held at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, celebrated this legacy of giving with a night of entertainment, auctions and heartfelt reflections on the importance of community support.
“The Embassy of Hope Foundation represents our commitment to uplifting the community that has given us so much,” said Dr. Michelle Carter. “As Vince prepares for his induction into the Hall of Fame, I am reminded that some of his greatest achievements extend beyond the basketball court.”
Joe Petrock, Executive Director of the Halifax Health Foundation, expressed his gratitude for the foundation’s ongoing support.
“The Embassy of Hope Foundation’s contributions have significantly impacted our ability to provide top-tier care and support to those in need,” he said. “Vince and Dr. Carter’s dedication to this community is truly commendable, and we are honored to be part of their journey.”
Little Miss North Florida donates backpacks, school supplies for foster children
Little Miss North Florida Gianna Capri, 10, of Ormond Beach, recently dropped off new backpacks and school supplies for foster children at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in DeLand.
The backpack donation is part of her initiative with nonprofit Michael’s ‘Ohana to promote awareness and funding for nonprofits in her community, with a focus on organizations that support people with special needs, according to a press release. This is Michael’s ‘Ohana’s third annual Back to School backpack drive for Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health and Gianna’s first time partnering up with The EmbryRiddle Volunteer Network.
Thanks to the Embry-Riddle Volunteer Network and the support of the Miss North Florida Organization, Gianna collected 15 new backpacks, several new school supplies, and raised over $600 in direct donations to benefit these local students.
Michael’s ‘Ohana was created in memory of Gianna’s uncle who died of a degenerative neurologi-
who can’t respond? The only part of my mouth that I could move was my tongue, which by now was airdried and rough — a piece of tongue jerky.
My lips were numb. My left nostril was numb. My left eyelid was numb. Breathe, Brian. You’ll make it through this. And if not, at least you’ll never need another tooth extraction.
I distracted myself by thinking about each of my children, praying for them one by one, feeling strangely desperate about their futures as I was confronted by my own trauma. Then I began pondering the various meanings of feeling numb — the good and the bad — as the dentist, from what I could tell, did a handstand on my face. Finally, it happened.
“All three roots came out at once,” the dentist said, almost to himself.
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I left the office in a daze, clenching my bloody-gauze-laden jaw, humbled, one tooth shy of a man.
Civil Air Patrol’s Ormond Beach Composite Squadron and Ormond Beach Middle School recently were recognized as the National ACE Plus Adopt Collaborative Squadron and School Teams of the Year.
The Civil Air Patrol’s Kindergarten to Sixth Grade Aerospace Connections in Education program began in 2007 as the Junior Cadet program. In 2008, the program name was changed to ACE, and the sixth grade curriculum began being used in sixth through eighth grade, according to a press release.
Over 638,000 students have participated since inception of the program. During the 2023-2024 academic year, over 101,000 students were involved. Each year, those who are nominated for their stellar ACE work are considered for national awards. Awards are included for the ACE Plus Adopt program as a component of the ACE program, which connects Civil Air Patrol squadron members and cadets as mentors for students in fifth through eighth grade. Each award recipient will receive an award plaque and a grant award courtesy of the Air & Space Forces Association Education Council.
cal disease in April 2021. Michael Alberico was a long-time resident of Ormond Beach. Michael’s ‘Ohana has partnered with Wolfson Childrens Hospital, Jacksonville, The Arc Jacksonville, Morning Star School, Jacksonville, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in DeLand, St. Brendan’s Catholic School in Ormond Beach, and The Pregnancy
Center in Daytona Beach. Gianna plans on using this year to continue helping those who live with in her community while honoring her uncle’s legacy, the press release states.
Registration to compete in February for a Miss North Florida title will open on Sept. 1.
to Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.
Crisis
Modern Minds Learning STEM program students. Courtesy photos
Cadet Senior Master Sgt. Sage Medders, Senior Member Jade Medders (back), Cadet Senior Master Sgt. Caleb Thoma (front), OBMS Teacher Jackie Porter, Cadet Technical Sgt. Matthew Langston and Cadet 2nd Lt. Clifton Cook.
Gianna Capri donates backpacks and school supplies
Civil Air Patrol squadron, OBMS, recognized
The
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Fit for a cause
MaxFit Games raises $500 for Ormond’s Volusia Recovery Alliance.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rob Maxwell, owner of Maxwell Fitness in Port Orange, hosted the eighth annual MaxFit Games on Saturday, Aug. 24 at Sunrise Park North in Holly Hill, raising $500 for the Volusia Recovery Alliance — a nonprofit organization based in Ormond Beach that offers a variety of services and support for substance use disorder recovery.
Maxwell said he started the event to incorporate multiple aspects of fitness — strength, endurance and cardio. He wanted an event that would be challenging for an athlete, but doable for an individual that exercises.
“I started MaxFit Games because there is no shortage of 5Ks and endurance events,” he said. “Cardio is one aspect of fitness. There are also bodybuilding and powerlifting events but typically these types of fitness enthusiasts don’t mix. They should. We need it all.”
He said he picked exercises that are true to life, known as, activities of daily living or ADLs. This year, competitors were expected to execute a myriad of exercises, including
a .9 mile run, wall-sit, hand-release pushups, weighted step-ups, pull ups or a timed hang, push presses and the farmer carry.
Participants began the games at 8 a.m. with a run then headed to the fitness court where there were pull up bars, step up boxes at various heights and an open space for the wall sit exercise. Jasmin Bedria blew the competition away in the wall sit exercise with a time of 4:05. She also placed first in the 40-44-year-old age group. Zach Hawk was the overall male winner and Missy Gibson was the overall female winner.
Maxwell selects a cause that he feels connected to and would like to support through the MaxFit Games.
A few years ago, his friend Mick Mitchell died in a motorcycle accident. He was able to help Mitchell’s parents with the funeral costs through the proceeds generated by the fitness event. Last year, he donated $1,000 to his girlfriend’s daughter’s GoFundMe to help her fight cancer.
“I want to attach a cause because I
MAXFIT GAMES RESULTS
MEN’S OVERALL WINNER
Zach Hawk
WOMEN’S OVERALL WINNER
Missy Gibson
MEN’S AGE GROUP WINNERS
Alex Grubel, 20-24
Matt Kelley, 25-29
Montana McGee, 30-34
Gary Frick, 55-59
WOMEN’S AGE GROUP
WINNERS
Brianna Barnes, 30-34
Jasmin Bedria, 40-44
Nichole Haynes, 45-49
Joanne Magley, 50-54
Kelli Marciano, 55-59
believe it’s important to use our talents to help those in need,” he said. “It makes fitness more selfless.”
Maxwell said he chose the VRA because of its personal importance. He has helped many loved ones with substance use disorder this year alone.
According to the website, the purpose of the organization is to coordinate peer-driven services that provide substance use recovery resources to the local community. They provided Narcan to be handed out at the event.
“Adult children in their 30s die of overdoses today,” he said. “A lot of marijuana has been laced with fentanyl so it can happen to anyone. It’s a serious epidemic.”
The donation to the VRA was made possible by Maxwell’s top sponsors— Jeff Hawk, owner of the Overhead Door Company, gave $1000 and Lyn and Jonathan Gildon, owners of the Gildon Group, donated $500.
Maxwell said he has not decided what his next cause will be but is considering a mini winter version of the games this year. He said he will continue to host the MaxFit Games. Visit volusiarecoveryalliance.org.
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, AUG. 29
RECIPES AND READS CULINARY
LAB: BASIC COOKING — SPICE LAB
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional
Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn about juniper and how to use it from library staff. Free program.
LITTLE ARTIST WORKSHOP: COLOR EXPLORATION
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Artists ages 3-5 are invited to focus on exploring colors with activities designed to develop fine motor skil;s and encourage imagination. The program will end with immersive storytelling. Free and offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia. Registration is required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.
SATURDAY, AUG. 31
TALES WITH TAILS
When: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: This is an interactive reading program designed for children up to age 12. Children will practice basic reading aloud skills by pairing up with a specially trained volunteer dog. Reservations, for 15-minute reading sessions, are required. Books are provided, or children can bring their favorite story. Free program.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 1
BLOOD DRIVE AND PANCAKE BREAKFAST
When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church social hall, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach
“I want to attach a cause because I believe it’s important to use our talents to help those in need. It makes fitness more selfless.”
ROB MAXWELL, owner of Maxwell Fitness and MaxFit Games organizer
Details: The Knights of Columbus Council 13018 is sponsoring a pancake breakfast. The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be onsite to accept blood donations, and all donors will receive a free pass to the breakfast to enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, and all the pancakes you can eat, along with coffee and orange juice. OneBlood will also offer a free gift and a $20 eGift card in addition to a complimentary wellness checkup. Breakfast for non-donors costs $6, and kids under 12 eat free.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 6
MOVIES ON THE HALIFAX When: 8 p.m.
Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “50 First Dates,” rated PG-13. Movies are weathersensitive. Call 386-676-3216 for rainout information.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 7
ORMOND ART WALK When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery, Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art openings and art events.
ART OPENING RECEPTION FOR PATRICIA CONWAY
When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Attend this opening reception for Palm Coast stained glass artist Patricia Conway. Meet the artist, listen to music, enjoy light refreshments and enjoy art. Call 386-317-9400 for more information. Her art will be on display Sept. 7-30.
ONGOING REGISTRATION FOR ART CLASSES, WORKSHOPS
When: Times vary, most classes and workshops begin in October. Where: Art League of Daytona Beach, 433 South Palmetto Ave., Daytona Beach
Details: Register for fall classes and workshops at the Art League of Daytona Beach. Visit artleague.org,
Matt Kelley does pull ups at the MaxFit Games at Sunrise Park North in Holly Hill.
Rob Maxwell (left) times the step ups for one minute while Alex Grubel does the hand release push ups at the MaxFit Games. Photos by Michele Meyers
Missy Gibson is the overall women’s winner at the MaxFit Games.
Zach Hawk participates in the farmer carry during the MaxFit Games at Sunrise Park North.
MaxFit Games competitors Nichole Haynes, Maryann Blankenship and Joanne Magley.
YOUR TOWN
Two Flagler Sheriff’s Office K-9s retired
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office announced the retirements of K-9s Odin and Baro after five and six years of service with the agency, respectively.
K-9 Odin, a 7-year-old German Shepherd, was born on June 15, 2017. He began with the FCSO in 2019 when he was 2 years old. Throughout his entire career with the FCSO, Odin served alongside Cmmdr. Robert Tarczewski. He served as a dual-purpose canine trained in patrol and narcotics detection.
During his time with the FCSO, Odin aided in locating 48 fleeing subjects, 29 pieces of drug paraphernalia and narcotics. Odin also located multiple firearms that were tied to crimes throughout Flagler County. Overall, Odin was deployed 346 times and directly assisted in the arrest of 107 criminal suspects. Odin officially retired from public service on June 11, after Tarczewski was promoted from K-9 unit sergeant to Community Policing Division watch commander.
K-9 Baro, a 7-year-old German Shepherd, was born on June 18, 2017. He began with the FCSO in 2018 when he was 14 months old.
Over his six years with FCSO, Baro served alongside two handlers in the K-9 unit. From 2018 to 2021, Baro was partnered with Sgt. Troy Cavas.
From 2021 until his retirement, he worked with Master Deputy Marcus Dawson. With both partners, Baro served as a dual-purpose canine trained in patrol and narcotics detection.
During Baro’s career, he aided in locating 95 fleeing subjects, 67 pieces of drug paraphernalia and various types of narcotics. Overall, Baro was deployed 681 times and directly assisted in the arrest of 156 criminal suspects.
Baro officially retired from public service on Aug. 22. His replacement will be announced soon and the FCSO will be taking suggestions from the public on the new dog’s name.
Both dogs were donated to the agency by Dr. Caesar DePaço.
“During their careers with FCSO, K-9 Odin and K-9 Baro were valuable members of our team and they will both be greatly missed in retirement,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “They are both very good boys and will most surely get many treats while living their best lives as retirees!”
Now retired from public service, both dogs are living with their handlers — Odin with Tarczewski and Baro with Dawson — and their families.
Flagler Cultural Council unveils turtle sculpture
The Flagler County Cultural Council unveiled the 22nd turtle sculpture in Flagler County’s Turtle Trail.
This new sculpture, named MAX, is inspired by pop artist Peter Max and was created by local artist Sheryl Fletcher Coon. MAX’s new home is at Marineland, at 9600 N. Oceanshore Blvd. The sculpture was
unveiled at 10 a.m. on Aug. 21, according to an FC3 press release.
This is the first turtle sculpture to be added to the trail since the FC3 took over the trail from the Palm Coast Arts Foundation. The trail first began in 2018, and the last two statues were unveiled in 2023.
The last turtle sculpture to be unveiled was “Renny,” installed at and sponsored by Intracoastal Bank at 1290 Palm Coast Parkway NW in November 2023.
The Turtle Trail sculptures are roughly 4 feet by 5 feet in size and of loggerhead turtles, according to the FC3’s website. The first Turtle Trail sculpture — “Claude” after famous artist Claude Monet — was unveiled in 2018 at the Palm Coast Arts Foundation stage at 1500 Central Avenue, now known as The Stage at Town Center.
Eagle Scout project adds three ‘Little Free Libraries’ in Palm Coast
Stephen Wilcox, 14, a Boy Scout from Troop 400 in Bunnell, completed his Eagle Scout Project on Aug. 20.
Collaborating with the city of Palm Coast’s Parks and Recreation Department, Wilcox led a group to build and install three “Little Free Libraries” around the city located at the Southern Recreation Center, Town Center in front of City Hall and a special little library for children at the Palm Coast Community Center.
The Community Center now has two Little Free Libraries. This one is positioned lower to the ground to make it accessible to the community’s youngest readers.
Wilcox said he got the idea for his Eagle project from his own book collection.
“I realized I had many books at home that were handed down to me from my older siblings that I just didn’t read anymore,” he said. “I wanted to give other kids access to those books and encourage them to read.”
Little Free Library is an international nonprofit that began in Wisconsin in 2009 with the motto, “Take a book. Share a book.” According to littlefreelibrary.org there are more than 175,000 little libraries in 121 countries.
“This project is a shining example of our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Palm Coast,” Parks and Recreation Director James Hirst said. “We are incredibly proud of Stephen for taking the initiative.”
City Repertory Theatre presents ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ musical
The 1970 rock musical, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” is coming to Palm Coast for the first time.
But the City Repertory Theatre’s version of the history-making collaboration between composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice will have a twist — an all female cast.
Michele O’Neil, Laniece Fagundes and Phillipa Rose lead the cast. The play is directed by John Sbordone with music led by Julia Hood.
The story is loosely based on the Gospels’ story of the Passion of Christ centering on the relationship and viewpoints of Jesus and Judas.
The play was originally unable to obtain a stage production and instead debuted as a collection of songs on a “concept” album. It’s extraordinary success led to its Broadway debut in 1971, eventually becoming one of the world’s most successful productions. It held the record for the longest-running musical in London until “Cats” clawed its way to the top in 1989.
“This spiritual, emotional and
provocative journey will enthrall and invigorate our audiences. It promises to be a brilliant beginning for the 2024-2025 CRT season,” CRT Co-Founder Diane Ellertsen
The musical’s dates are: 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Sept. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 3 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 15, 22, 29, Tickets are $30 ($15 for students). The City Repertory Theatre is located at the City Market Place, 160 Cypress Point Parkway in Palm Coast. For more information or to buy tickets, go to www.crtpalmcoast. com or call 386-585-9415.
Bluegrass band to perform at the Ormond Beach library auditorium
The Salty Grass Band — a local favorite known for their traditional bluegrass, Americana standards and gospel music — will be performing in the Ormond Beach Library auditorium at 2 p.m. on Sept. 26. Formed in 2023, the Salty Grass Band has performed in various venues around Barberville, Port Orange and New Smyrna Beach, according to a press release.
“Bluegrass music is known for its high energy level and Salty Grass brings this tradition to life with its talented musicians on guitar, bass, fiddle, banjo and mandolin,” the press release states. “Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an hour of foot tapping music that will transport you to the heart of Americana.” Sponsored by the Friends of the Ormond Beach Library, this free program is open to the public. Send Your Town press releases to sierra@observerlocalnews.com.
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SAY IT WITH A SONG by Shannon Rapp and Will Eisenberg, edited by Jeff Chen
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office K-9s Baro (left) and Odin (right) have retired. Photo courtesy of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
The new turtle trail sculpture, named MAX, is inspired by pop artist Peter Max and was created by local artist Sheryl Fletcher Coon. Courtesy of the Flagler County Cultural Council
Stephen Wilcox stocks a Little Free Library. Courtesy photos
Jewel DeVaney and Lila Wixom paint the boards for the Little Free Libraries.
Non Sequitur
Nancy
Mother Goose and Grimm
The Duplex
In the Bleachers
Cornered
Ziggy
The Fusco Brothers
Heartbreaking loss
Bucs lose to the Titans in last 46 seconds of their season opener.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Mainland head football coach
Jerrime Bell told his players to take a knee as he addressed the team. Some of them were hanging their heads following the 31-28 loss to University High of Orange City.
The Tians scored the winning touchdown with 46 seconds remaining in the season opener on Aug. 23.
“… Every champion has taken a loss,” he said. “This is how you bounce back from it. Pick your heads up. Let’s learn from this. Don’t leave a good team close. If you want to be a champion again, you have to learn to finish. For those of you that are champions already, remember what it took. We’ve got a long season. This is just week one. You want to feel good when Cocoa rolls in here (on Aug. 30), go finish the mission.”
The Bucs got off to a quick start in the first two minutes of the game with a 34-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Sebastian Johnson to wide receiver Houston Cadette. The Titans answered with 95-yard pick-
six by Jermane Hayes in the last four seconds of the first quarter and added a 25-yard field goal by Owen Baylor in the second quarter.
Mainland wrapped up the first half with a 5-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Cadette and a 28-yard touchdown charge through Titans defenders by running back Edward Williams. The Buccaneers headed into the locker room at halftime
with a 21-10 lead.
“We had a chance to put them away early in the first half,” Bell said. “When we had them down, we should have finished and we didn’t. We got our start and gave it back to them. We have to learn to finish everything we do.”
The second half was a series of back and forth plays starting with a 10-yard touchdown pass by University quarterback Malachi Walters to wide receiver Isaiah Baker.
Mainland’s Tamaj Woodard followed with a quarterback sack and less than five minutes later, Johnson connected with Cadette for a 14-yard touchdown pass.
Barrett Schulz scored again for the Titans bringing University to within 28-24.
Bell said Kwasie Kwaku had a phenomenal game.
The coach thought Kwaku made what was the gamewinning interception in the fourth quarter, but University took control of the ball after Mainland fumbled in the last two minutes of the game.
With seconds left on the clock, University’s Hayes zipped into the end zone and caught the winning
touchdown. The officials conferred about the validity of the catch after Mainland coaches questioned whether the ball had been secured. The call stood and the Titans won by three points.
“Hats off to University,” Bell said. “They fought. They came out the second half with a heart of a champion. The ball bounced their way, in the end. I can’t take anything from those kids. They made plays too. (University head coach Justin Roberts) is doing a good
job over there.” Bell said Mainland has playmakers all over the field. Christian Hudson remained a dominant defensive lineman with University players attempting to keep their distance. Cadette had three touchdowns while fellow receiver Jameil Patrick caught 42-yard and 34-yard passes, and Christian Cooper caught 21-yard and 35-yard passes.
“We have playmakers,” Bell said. “Everybody thinks Mainland is down but Mainland is Mainland. My players showed resiliency all night. They stepped up and made plays that needed to be made.”
Patrick has been playing football since he was 6 years old and recently transferred from DeLand High School to play for the Bucs. He said Mainland looks good as a team and he appreciates his coach for trusting him to make plays.
“I want to thank my O-line, my blockers and quarterback — everybody on the team,” he said. “It’s a team effort — it’s not just me. We lost but we have to bounce back and keep our heads up. We can’t keep our heads down on this loss.” The Buccaneers host the Cocoa Tigers on Friday, Aug. 30 at Daytona Stadium.
The Mainland cheerleaders get fired up at the season opener against the University Titans at Daytona Stadium.
Mainland fans show their support during the season-opening game against the University Titans at Daytona Stadium. Photos by Michele Meyers
Mainland Edward Williams (4) breaks away from Titans defensive player Jermane Hayes (3) during the Bucs’ season opener at Daytona Stadium.
Mainland’s Antonio Wilson Jr. (26) moves in, trying to sack Titans quarterback Malachi Walters (1) who just gets the pass off during the Bucs’ season-opening game at Daytona Stadium.
Overwhelmed
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Seabreeze lost to powerhouse Spruce Creek 50-0 in their season opener on Thursday, Aug. 22 at the Daytona Stadium. The Hawks scored all of their points in the first half and held the Sandcrabs off the scoreboard.
Seabreeze head coach Mike Klein said he knew his team would not be clicking the first game of the season with the implementations of a new offense and defense.
“It’s hard to be clicking in the first game of the season
with everything being brand new,” he said. “I knew that was going to be the case and I knew that was a good football team we were playing week one. Too many mistakes early and too many turnovers early. Good teams capitalize on those mistakes and that’s what they did. We can’t be a team that puts ourselves in a hole.”
Seabreeze wins volleyball opener
The Seabreeze volleyball team defeated Mainland 3-1 in its season opener Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Mainland gym. Adeline Bethea had 13 kills, four aces and eight digs for the Sandcrabs. Lilli Litz had 12 digs and 14 assists and Haven Price had eight solo blocks and two assisted blocks. Janiyah Giddens had nine kills for Mainland (1-2). Sophia Martindale had 29 assists and Jaelynn Brown had 14 serve receptions.
Swim results
Father Lopez split with Spruce Creek on Aug. 20 in its first swim meet of the season, while Matanzas swept Palatka.
Lopez’s girls won nine of 11 events but couldn’t overcome Spruce Creek’s depth in a 164-122 Hawks’ victory. Lopez’s boys defeated Creek 173-103, winning 10 events. Lopez’s Nelanee Fulton, Zoee Fulton, Evie Kate Carnathan, Matt Alvarez and Ryan Herdel each won two individual events. Maya Khanna, Joe Romeo, Elijah Alvarez and Jack Svajko each won one individual event. The Green Wave also won three relays. At Palatka, Matanzas won the girls team title, 138-71, while the Pirates’ boys squad defeated the Panthers 10655.
Send sports news and results to brent@ observerlocalnews.com
Spruce Creek scored 28 points in the first quarter with Anthony Hayden leading them off with an 80-yard touchdown and a 2-point conversion by former Seabreeze player Denali Campbell. Campbell continued to dominate throughout the game with a fumble recovery followed by a 20-yard touchdown, a 35-yard touchdown reception and an 83-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.
Hawks head coach Andy Price said everyone played for them — Xavier Lucas made some big plays in the secondary and caused the first fumble on Creek’s opening kickoff, Trell Edwards scored two touchdowns and had two
2-point conversions and Tony Kinsler had one touchdown in the second quarter.
“We started out very fast— opening the game with an 80yard run by Anthony Hayden,” Price said. “Denali did make some big plays — a Seabreeze transfer that made some big plays versus his former school. A head coaching change and change of personal residence in the off-season made the game less emotional for him.”
Quarterback Zachary Voltaire started for Seabreeze with Jayce Gainer stepping into the position with close to three minutes remaining in the second quarter. Gainer said he was praying a lot and had God on his side so he could help his team out in any way possible.
“We have a good head coach — I’m glad he came into the program,” Gainer said. “My teammates are all very hard workers. They have good work ethic and we want to give it everything we got. Tonight, it might not have shown that, but we will improve and do the best we can.”
With seconds remaining in
the fourth quarter, Seabreeze’s Drew McNerney kicked a field goal. Due to a running clock because of the mercy rule, the goal did not count.
This week is a “bye” for Seabreeze. Their next game is against Halifax Academy on Friday, Sept. 6. Klein said they will use the bye week to get their new offensive and defensive strategies in order while continuing to stress conditioning before district play. He said he will be focusing on preparing Dylan Hayes, Brogan Kelly, Dylan Tocci and Steven Williams to play both sides of the ball.
“These guys are fighters, so I’m not worried about them getting themselves back on their feet and coming back next week to fight,” Klein said.
“We are going to lean on our seniors in big time situations. They have given everything to this program and they continue to do that. So we are going to continue to lean on them and let them play some football.”
“...I knew that was a good football team we were playing week one. Too many mistakes early and too many turnovers early. Good teams capitalize on those mistakes and that’s what they did. We can’t be a team that puts ourselves in a hole.”
MIKE KLEIN,
Seabreeze head football coach
Seabreeze players Brogan Kelly (left) and Jake Deising (21) block for George Jeremias (center) as he looks for a hole with Rhett Opalewski (20) following the play in the Sandcrabs’ season opener against Spruce Creek. Photos by Michele Meyers
Spruce Creek Hawks devour Sandcrabs in season opener.
The Seabreeze cheerleading squad cheers as they follow the football team onto the field.
Seabreeze fans watch the game at Daytona Stadium.
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: CASE NO.: 2024 11171 CIDL LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. JENNIFER A. STEIN A/K/A JENNIFER ANN STEIN; AUTUMN WOODS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; GOODLEAP, LLC; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING THROUGH THE RURAL HOUSING SERVICE; TIMOTHY L. LAKE, JR. A/K/A
LEIGH
JR.; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF
L. LAKE, JR. A/K/A
LEIGH LAKE, JR.; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF JENNIFER A. STEIN A/K/A JENNIFER ANN STEIN; UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY, Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), LAURA E. ROTH as the Clerk of the Circuit Court shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www.volusia.realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 01 day of October, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 119, AUTUMN WOODS UNIT TWO, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 47, PAGE(S) 57 THROUGH 59, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 129 LONG PINE DRIVE, DELTONA, FL 32725
or thereon, which are included as security in Plaintiff’s mortgage. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus funds 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
FL 32114, (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. Dated: 8/23/2024 McCabe, Weisberg &
Email: FLpleadings@mwc-law.com File No: 23-400325 Aug. 29; Sept. 5, 2024 24-00440I
IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS.
If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096 Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711.
Dated this 23 day of August 2024. By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet Lindsay Maisonet, Esq. Bar Number: 93156
Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 Telephone: (954) 453-0365 Facsimile: (954) 771-6052 Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438 DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516 eservice@decubaslewis.com 23-03583 Aug. 29; Sept. 5, 2024 24-00444I
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION Case No.: 2024 12470 PRDL Div.: 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF BARAK KERNS BAKER, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of BARAK KERNS BAKER, deceased, whose date of death was February 29, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 N Alabama Ave, DeLand, FL 32724. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is August 29, 2024.
Personal Representative: /s/ Lisa B. Baker Lisa B. Baker 238 Cyress Trail Drive Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Elan R. Kaney Elan R. Kaney, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 538302 523 N. Halifax Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32118 Telephone: (386) 281-5777 Fax: (386) 867-8076 E-Mail: Elan.Kaney@KaneyLaw.com Aug. 29; Sept. 5, 2024 24-00445I
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024-12929 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF KENNETH EVERETT NEUMANN A/K/A KENNETH E. NEUMANN, Deceased. The administration of the estate of KENNETH EVERETT NEUMANN A/K/A
KENNETH E. NEUMANN, deceased, whose date of death was July 6, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P. O. Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721-6043. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: August 29, 2024.
Signed on this 26th day of August, 2024. /s/ Joe Kaley Morrison JOE KALEY MORRISON Personal Representative 7725 Box Turtle Way Flowery Branch, GA 30542-5504 /s/ R. Kevin Korey R. KEVIN KOREY, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No. 89108
ROBERT KIT KOREY, P. A. 595 W. Granada Blvd. Suite A Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Telephone: (386) 677-3431
Email: Kevin@koreylawpa.com
Secondary Email: Michele@koreylawpa.com Aug. 29; Sept. 5, 2024 22-00446I FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION Case No.: 2024 12468 PRDL Div.: 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF KATHY MICHELLE GRAY, Deceased.
The administration of the Estate of KATHY MICHELLE GRAY, deceased, whose date of death was January 14, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 N Alabama Ave, DeLand, FL 32724. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of this notice was first published is August 29, 2024. Personal Representative: /s/ David D. Holland David D. Holland 700 W. Granada Blvd. Ormond Beach, FL 32174 Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Elan R. Kaney Elan R. Kaney, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0538302 523 N. Halifax Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (386) 281-5777 Email: Elan.Kaney@KaneyLaw.com Aug. 29; Sept. 5, 2024 24-00447I
NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2024 11929 CIDL NATIONS DIRECT MORTGAGE, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DANEY R. JOHNSON; CATHERINE JOHNSON, ET AL. Defendants To the following Defendant(s): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DANEY R. JOHNSON (CURRENT RESIDENCE UNKNOWN) Last Known Address: UNKNOWN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN LOT 33, OF NORRIS SUBDIVISION OF THE DUPONT AND GAUDRY GRANT, ACCORDING TO MAP IN DEED BOOK “C”, PAGE 681, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA, MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33 RUN SOUTH 80°00’ EAST, A DISTANCE OF 810 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 80°00’ EAST, A DISTANCE OF 100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°06’ EAST A DISTANCE OF 413.19 FEET; THENCE NORTH 80°00’ WEST, A DISTANCE OF 118.61 FEET; THENCE NORTH 02°25’20” EAST, A DISTANCE OF 410.36 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. AND A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN LOT 33, OF NORRIS SUBDIVISION OF THE DUPONT AND GAUDRY GRANT, ACCORDING TO MAP IN DEED BOOK “C”, PAGE 681, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA, MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33 RUN SOUTH 80°00’ EAST, A DISTANCE OF 910 FEET TO A POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 80°00’ EAST, A DISTANCE OF 100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°06’ EAST, A DISTANCE OF 413.19 FEET; THENCE NORTH 80°00’ WEST, A DISTANCE OF 100 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°06’ WEST, A DISTANCE OF 413.19 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. A/K/A 1854 TWIN OAKS DRIVE, DELAND FL 32720 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to J. Anthony Van Ness, Esq. at VAN NESS LAW FIRM, PLC, Attorney for the Plaintiff, whose address is 1239 E. NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE #110, DEERFIELD BEACH, FL 33442 on or before SEP 30 2024 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. This notice is provided to Administrative Order No. 2065.
REQUESTS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. THESE ARE NOT COURT INFORMATION NUMBERS SOLICITUD DE ADAPTACIONES PARA PERSONAS CON DISCAPACIDADES Si usted es una person con discapacidad que necesita una adaptación para poder participar en este procedimiento, usted tiene el derecho a que se le proporcione cierta asistencia, sin incurrir en gastos. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Administración Judicial (Court Administration), 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096, con no menos de 7 dias de antelación de su cita de comparecencia ante el juez, o de inmediato al recibir esta notificación si la cita de comparecencia está dentro de un plazo menos de 7 días ; si usted tiene una discapacidad del habla o del oído, llame al 711. ESTOS NUMEROS TELEFONICOS NO SON PARA OBTENER INFORMACION JUDICIAL WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court this 16 day of August, 2024. Laura E. Roth VOLUSIA COUNTY CLERK OF COURT (SEAL) By /s/ Jennifer M. Hamilton As Deputy Clerk J. Anthony Van Ness, Esq. VAN NESS LAW FIRM, PLC Attorney for the Plaintiff 1239 E. NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE #110 DEERFIELD BEACH, FL 33442 PHH19917-24/cam August 22, 29, 2024 24-00425I
SECOND INSERTION
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024 12839 PRDL DIVISION: 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF GHAZI M. OSTA, Deceased. The administration of the estate of GHAZI M. OSTA, deceased, whose date of death was July 19, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Post Office Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721. The names and addresses of the
DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY,
TRUSTEE
NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 2007-1 NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, Plaintiff, vs. INEZ C. BRACY A/K/A INEZ
CHRISTINE BRACY A/K/A INEZ BRACY EL; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF INEZ C. BRACY A/K/A INEZ CHRISTINE BRACY A/K/A INEZ BRACEY EL; VICTORIA GARDENS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; V.P. HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE, INC.; INEZ CHRISTINE BRACY NONCOMBATIVE, NON-BELLIGERENT, NON-ADVERSE PRIVATE FOUNDATION, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the order of Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 14, 2024, and entered in Case No. 2020 10998 CIDL of the Circuit Court of the 7TH Judicial Circuit in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for NovaStar Mortgage Funding Trust, Series 2007-1 NovaStar Home Equity Loan Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-1, is Plaintiff and Inez C. Bracy a/k/a Inez Christine Bracy a/k/a Inez Bracy El; Unknown Spouse of Inez C. Bracy a/k/a Inez Christine Bracy a/k/a Inez Bracey El; Victoria Gardens Homeowners Association, Inc.; V.P. Homeowners Association, Inc.; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc.; Inez Christine
INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024 12285 PRDL DIVISION: 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF DEVIN MICHAEL FULLER, Deceased. The administration of the estate of DEVIN MICHAEL FULLER, deceased, whose date of death was February 8, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Post Office Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is August 22, 2024. DocuSigned by: /s/ Jordan W. Miller Jordan W. Miller, Personal Representative 501 10th Street, #H56 New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 /s/ Fred B. Share 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 Personal Representative August 22, 29, 2024 24-00427I
Bracy Non-Combative, Non-Belligerent, Non-Adverse Private Foundation, are Defendants, the Office of the Clerk, Volusia County Clerk of the Court will sell via online auction at www.volusia.realforeclose. com at 11:00 a.m. on the 10th day of October, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 288, VICTORIA PARK INCREMENT TWO NORTHEAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 50, PAGES 111 THROUGH 114, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA Property Address: 902 Heron Pt Cir, Deland, Florida 32724 and all fixtures and personal property located therein or thereon, which are included as security in Plaintiff’s mortgage.
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus funds 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 any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
Dated: 8/20/2024
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC
By: Craig Stein
Craig Stein, Esq. Fl Bar No. 0120464
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC
3222 Commerce Place, Suite A West Palm Beach, Florida, 33407
Telephone: (561) 713-1400
Email: FLpleadings@mwc-law.com
File No: 20-401152 August 22, 29, 2024 24-00429I
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024 12812 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF B. THOMAS BROWN, aka BENJAMIN THOMAS BROWN Deceased. The administration of the estate of B. Thomas Brown, also known as Benjamin Thomas Brown, deceased, whose date of death was July 14, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Post Office Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is August 22, 2024.
Personal Representative: Elizabeth T. Brown c/o Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Attorney for Personal Representative: W. Denis Shelley
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 273872 Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Telephone: (386) 252-2531 Fax: (386) 868-5371
E-Mail: shelley@legacylaw313.com
Secondary E-Mail: linda@legacylaw313.com August 22, 29, 2024 24-00424I
NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Formal Administration) IN THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 2024-12668-PRDL
DIVISION: 10 IN RE: The Estate of ORBAN STONE, Deceased. TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE:
The administration of the estate of ORBAN STONE, deceased, whose date of death was August 13, 2023, and whose social security number is XXX-XX-1978, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 North Alabama Avenue, DeLand, Florida 32724. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF RESCHEDULED SALE
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 2023 31905 CICI CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC, Plaintiff, vs. JOYCE A. BUSCH AKA JOYCE BUSCH, et al, Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Pursuant to an Order Rescheduling Foreclosure Sale dated July 23, 2024, and entered in Case No. 2023 31905 CICI of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Volusia County, Florida in which Carrington Mortgage Services LLC, is the Plaintiff and Joyce A. Busch aka Joyce Busch, United States of America Acting through Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Volusia County Clerk of the Circuit Court, The Orchard, Phase I, Homeowner’s Association, Inc., are defendants, the Volusia County Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash in/ on online at electronically/online at http:// www.volusia.realforeclose.com, Volusia County, Florida at 11:00AM EST on the September 11, 2024 the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure: LOT 46, THE ORCHARD - PHASE I, ACCORDING TO THE MAP AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 44, PAGE
THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITH THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. A Personal Representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless
The
33133 Tel: 1-833-973-3279 Fax: 1-833-927-3279 E-mail: SG@EasyEstateProbate.com Florida Bar No. 101511 August 22, 29, 2024 24-00421I SECOND INSERTION
14, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. A/K/A 166 DESKIN DR SOUTH DAYTONA 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 before the Clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. ATTENTION PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES:
If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., St. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-257-6096, within 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. THIS IS NOT A COURT INFORMATION LINE. To file response please contact Volusia County Clerk of Court, 101
Fax: (813) 221-9171 eService: servealaw@albertellilaw.com By: /s/ Nathan Gryglewicz Florida Bar #762121 Nathan Gryglewicz, Esq. CT - 23-004293 August 22, 29, 2024 24-00420I
