CITY WATCH
JARLEENE ALMENAS SENIOR EDITOR
Sunbros drivethru coffee shop moves forward
The Ormond Beach Planning Board reccommended approval by a 6-0 vote for a special exception redevelopment plan for the construction of a new drivethru coffee shop in town.
Dan Sundell, of SunBros Cafe in Flagler Beach, seeks to demolish the existing building at 14 S. Yonge St. and construct a 250-square-foot standing drive-thru coffee shop at the former Massey Auto Brokers property. He is seeking a waiver for landscaping requirements and for building wall signage standards.
His proposal was met with praise from the board.
“I think this is a massive step in the right direction,” board member Troy Railsback said.
“I like it,” board member
Mike Scudiero said. “I think it’s much better than what’s there now. I hope we can move this up unlike the one last month.”
At the board’s meeting on Nov. 14, members voted 4-1 against a redevelopment plan for an Ellianos Coffee at the Winn-Dixie parking lot, based on traffic concerns. Scudiero was the only lone yes vote.
Planning Board OK’s Little Tomoka Village
Single-family homes or apartments?
If the choice is between the two, Planning Board members said they’d favor the homes, and that’s how they voted on Thursday, Dec. 12, regarding a zoning map amendment and development order for the construction of a new 31-home subdivision. The board recommended the items for approval in a 4-2 vote, with board members Mike Scudiero and Barry du Moulin voting against. Board Chair Doug Thomas was absent.
“There’s a housing need,” Board member GG Galloway said. “... and the alternative is, do you build apartments? Which is not the American Dream.”
The subdivision, to be known as “Little Tomoka Village” is being proposed for a 50-acre property located north of West Granada Boulevard and east of Shadow Crossings Boulevard. In addition to the 31 homes, an Eastern Orthodox church will also be constructed on the property.
A little under 17 acres of the property is currently zoned for medium density residential, and as the land is part of the Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact, approved in 1991, it was approved for the construction of 50-multifamily units already. The rezoning, according to staff documents, to a Planned Residential Development, would allow for the construction of 31 homes instead.
Residents voiced concerns before the board regarding traffic, the impact on wildlife, and flooding issues from the Little Tomoka River, which bisect the property along the northern and western portions.
Citizen Ted Rhodes said he believed the developer needs to go back to the drawing board and redesign the proposed development. He
recently started an online petition to halt all residential growth in the city.
“Since just the time I’ve been here, I’ve talked to people about traffic and I’ve talked to people about the quality of life here — almost every resident that I’ve talked to has really had enough with all of the development in this area,” Rhodes said.
He added that there was a lot of real estate representation on the board, and that it may not be “representative” of the Ormond Beach community at large.
Galloway, and fellow board members Angie Shull and Troy Railsback all work in the real estate industry.
Railsback said it’s “obnoxious” for a resident to insinuate that the board members are serving their own interests by being on the board. He lives off State Road 40 too, and said the community’s concerns regarding traffic are valid.
“We celebrate the mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”
Erika Demke, chairwoman of local Wreaths Across America event.
See Page 4A
“This one development is not going to, I think, push something over the edge and be a tipping point,” Railsback said. “It’s just going to contribute to it and as a community, we do need to advocate to get a light there.”
But, he added, he doesn’t multifamily apartments there instead.
People are entitled to move to Ormond Beach, said du Moulin. However, he was concerned about worsening flooding issues caused by the lack of maintenance of local waterways.
Scudiero said he shared the community’s traffic concerns and said he would have been more in favor of the development if it didn’t include the church and community center.
Residential homes, he said, will generate less trips than those buildings.
Votran’s new fares go into effect in January
Starting Jan. 1, 2025, singleride fares on Votran will increase to $2, up from the current $1.75.
One-day passes will cost $4. The cost for three-day, seven-day, and 31-day passes is also increasing, according to a county press release.
Votran Gold Service fares will be set at $3.50 per ride. Reduced fares will remain available for individuals with disabilities, seniors 65 and older, and youth 17 and under.
“These changes are necessary to maintain Votran’s high-quality services amid rising operational expenses,” the county press release states. “This marks the first fare increase in a decade, and even with the adjustments, the new rates will remain below the average for transit systems in Florida.”
Celebrate the holidays at The Casements
The city’s 18th annual Holidays at The Casements event will be held at the historic home at 25 Riverside Drive on Thursday, Dec. 19. The event will begin at 6 p.m. with an open house. A dessert social will follow at 6:30 p.m. and at 7 p.m., The Moonlighters will perform a holiday concert.
Chamber, OBPD host Toy Drop
Th Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Ormond Beach Police Department filled the MRAP with gifts for children with the Ormond Beach Police Athletic League on Friday, Dec. 13.
“This is what the holiday spirit is all about—coming together to make a difference,” the chamber wrote on its Facebook page.
The property spans about 50 acres. Courtesy of the city of Ormond Beach
Santa’s Toyland
The city of Ormond Beach’s Department of Leisure Services presented the 33rd annual Home for the Holidays Parade on Saturday, Dec. 14. Holiday revelers gathered along the streets of U.S. 1, Granada Boulevard and Beach Street to enjoy over 100 Santa’s Toyland themed floats, bands and performances.
Ormond Beach MainStreet hosted the annual City Hall tree lighting ceremony, which kicked off the night of celebration. The Daytona State College orchestra played Christmas favorites while people enjoyed sweet treats and drinks. Mayor Jason Leslie and City Commissioners Lori Tolland, Travis Sargent, Kristin Deaton and Harold Briley along with their families, attended prior to riding in the parade. The tree came to life as Leslie flipped the light switch. Rain poured down on the event halfway through the parade. While there
was a mass exodus, it did not deter the remaining entrants from completing the route. The Abaco Windows float successfully carried Santa and Mrs. Claus to their final destination in front of City Hall.
Becky Parker, Executive Director of Ormond MainStreet, smiled as she looked over the festivities.
“This is one of my favorite events,” she said. “Everybody comes together to enjoy the holidays as a community.” –MICHELE MEYERS
WINNERS
Sharon Clark, Drew Flickema and Melody Hanger pose together before the annual Ormond Beach City Hall tree lighting ceremony.
Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie celebrates lighting the Christmas tree with his fellow City Commissioners and their families.
Zone 4 Ormond Beach City Commissioner Harold Briley and his wife, Lori.
The Iron Horse Saloon turned a United Rentals truck into the Island of Misfit Toys float from the movie ‘Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer’. Photos by Michele Meyers
City of Ormond Beach employees Emanuil Godorove, Kevin Young, Dean Hoenninger and Andrew Burnett arrive early in the morning to set up for the Home for the Holidays parade and stay late at night to break it down.
Kelly Curtis (left) won Home for the Holiday parade VIP passes at her job with Security First Insurance. She had front section seats with her family: 96-year-old Pops Rose, Christopher Mandolini, Don Andrews, Jackie Curtis and Kristen Curtis.
Champion Elementary School cheerleaders perform
Amanda’s Dance Center dancers perform for the judges.
Mission to remember: Ormond DAR holds ninth Wreaths Across America event
The Capt. James Ormond chapter of the DAR laid wreaths on the 264 veteran graves at Hillside Cemetery.
SUZANNE MCCARTHY
GUEST WRITER
The Capt. James Ormond chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution held its ninth annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Hillside Cemetery in Ormond Beach on Saturday, Dec. 14.
“We celebrate the mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom,” said Erika Demke, chapter chairperson for Wreaths Across America. “Today we remember also prisoners of
war, those missing in action, and all those who are serving and have served in our great nation’s armed services.”
The ceremony — which laid wreaths on the graves of 264 local veterans at Hillside — was part of a nationwide effort by Wreaths Across America, which coordinated events at more than 4,700 locations across the country where people gathered to reflect on the contributions of U.S. veterans and active-duty service members.
“These men and women have fought and continue to fight to protect the innocent and oppressed,” Demke said.
During the event, activeduty and retired servicemen and women laid wreaths to honor members of the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard, as well as prisoners of war and individuals missing in action.
Wreaths Across America began in 1992 when Morrill Worcester, a wreath maker from Maine, placed a surplus of his company’s balsam
wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery to pay tribute to veterans buried there. In 2007, he and others formed Wreaths Across America to continue
“We celebrate the mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”
ERIKA DEMKE, chapter chairperson for Wreaths Across America
and expand this effort. Since then, the non- profit organization has grown, spanning all 50 states with more than 3 million wreaths laid annually.
Erica Demke, the Wreaths Across America chairperson for the Capt. James Ormond DAR chapter, opens the ceremony.
Azrael Ellis, held by his father Ken Ellis, points as his mother lays a wreath for armed force members who went missing in action, or became prisoners of war.
Trumpeter Ivan Iorgulescu, a freshman at Seabreeze High School, plays Taps.
Staff Sgt. Nicholas Burg, Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd class Mason Greenhalgh, Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie, and Sgt. Ashley Ellis listen to the playing of Taps.
Dierdra Tober sings the national anthem during the Wreaths Across America at Hillside Cemetery. Photos by Suzanne McCarthy
BRIEFS
Trump Florida State Campaign director elected to lead Volusia Republicans
The Volusia County Republican Executive Committee has elected a new chairman for the Volusia GOP.
Maryann Pistilli, of New Smyrna Beach, was elected as chairman during the committee’s annual reorganization meeting on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Daytona International Speedway.
“Maryann has been on the Trump Train since 2015 and she’s knocked on some 300 thousand doors over the past decade on behalf of Republicans and the America First agenda,” a Volusia GOP newsletter stated. Pistilli was also credited with developing volunteer teams that helped bolster the Republican vote in 2017 while the committee was under the leadership of the late Tony Ledbetter, who died in 2019. More recently, she led statewide voter registration efforts and served as President-elect Donald Trump’s Florida state campaign director. She succeeds outgoing Chairman Paul Deering.
Serving as Volusia GOP vice chairman is Duncan DeMarsh, of DeLand, who is a legislative aide to Florida Rep. Chase Tramont. Cathy DiBernardino and John Reid will
serve another term as secretary and treasurer, respectively.
Culver’s now open in Ormond Beach
A slice of small-town Wisconsin has opened in Ormond Beach.
Culver’s, known for its ButterBurgers and fresh frozen custard, opened a new location at 655 W. Granada Blvd. on Dec. 9. This is the third Culver’s restaurant for Davis and Marisa Ferreria, who operate locations in Palm Coast and New Smyrna Beach.
“We’re excited to open and begin welcoming guests through our doors with the warm hospitality Culver’s is
known for,” Marisa Ferreria said in a press release. “When Ormond Beach residents are looking for handcrafted meals cooked to order and tasty frozen treats, we’ll be ready to serve them.”
The couple first became franchise owners in 2017. In the press release, they stated that their “path to becoming a franchise owner has been a rewarding experience that has helped them develop their talents in the restaurant business.”
The Ormond Beach location is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. In addition to ButterBurgers and frozen custard, Culver’s also serves chicken sandwiches, garden
salads, Wisconsin cheese curds and crinkle cut fries.
OBPD swears in two new officers
The Ormond Beach Police Department swore in two new officers on Thursday, Dec. 5. Officer Nick Mancuso previously served in the U.S. Army as a military police officer, primarily stationed out of Fort Stewart in Georgia, according to his bio, provided by OBPD. He also served overseas in South Korea and Germany. Mancuso, who grew up in Palm Coast, is a Matanzas High School graduate. After leaving the military in 2023, he enrolled at Daytona State College and is working toward an associate degree in early childhood development.
Officer Julio Liriano was born in Dominican Republic but moved to New York City at 10 years old, according to his bio. He graduated from the High School of Environmental Studies in Manhattan and moved to Florida in 2021.
He was part of the Law Enforcement Academy at DSC.
“We’re excited to have them join our mission to serve and protect our community,” OBPD wrote on its Facebook page.
County launches survey to help shape future of Volusia County
Beaches
Volusia County is conducting a study to gather information on how residents and visitors use the county’s beaches and their perceptions of the beach’s quality.
The study will explore additional beach management options beyond the planned Coastal Sand Placement projects, which are funded by a Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant and set to begin in early 2025.
The first survey in this study, which will focus on beach usage and perceived quality, is now available online at www.volusia.org. Residents, property owners, businesses, and visitors are invited to share their input through the survey, which should take less than 10 minutes to complete. The survey will remain open until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. Participants who complete the survey and provide their email addresses at the end will receive automatic updates about upcoming public meetings and the availability of the second survey.
In February 2025, the county will host a series of public meetings to provide information about the various potential beach resiliency improvements, answer questions, and gather additional community feedback. A second survey regarding potential beach resiliency improvements will be released in the spring or summer of 2025. This survey will be informed by the first survey’s results and public meeting input. It will focus on a study of Volusia’s unique dynamic coastal processes, historical shoreline trend research (currently underway), and possible funding options for such projects. Volusia County encourages anyone with an interest in Volusia’s beaches to complete and share the survey with others who are invested in ensuring a resilient coastline for generations to come. Information about the survey and a direct link will be posted on the County’s social media channels. Flyers featuring a QR code for easy access will also be distributed throughout the community. Visit https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/VolusiaCoastalSurvey1.
The new Executive Board of the Volusia GOP: Secretary Cathy DiBernardino, Treasurer John Reid, State Committeewoman Erika Benfield, Vice Chairman Duncan DeMarsh, Chairman Maryann Pistilli and State Committeeman Vic Baker. Courtesy photo
Culver's in Ormond Beach is located at 655 West Granada Blvd. Courtesy photo
New officers Julio Liriano and Nick Mancuso were sworn in on Thursday, Dec. 5.
Photo courtesy of Ormond Beach Police/Pauline Dulang
Off-duty Flagler County deputy performs CPR on young boy at Dollywood
Sgt. Paul DeSousa said all the glory goes to God for putting him in the right place to breathe ‘life back into that little boy.’
OBSERVER STAFF
GUEST WRITER
A Dec. 6 social media post by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office described how Sgt. Paul DeSousa helped save the life of a young boy while DeSousa and his family were recently visiting Dollywood in Tennessee. The post said DeSousa was “out of uniform, out of state, and enjoying his time at the theme park … but a first responder is never truly off duty.” News sites and TV stations as far away as Hawaii reported the FCSO post. The Florida Sheriff’s Association reposted with the introduction, “Heroes never take a day off.”
COPS CORNER
DEC. 3 RARE SPECIMEN
12:04 p.m. — 300 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach Vandalism. Police responded to a local storage unit owned by a 52-year-old Daytona Beach man who reported damage to his rare two-headed skeleton taxidermied calf. According to the incident report, the man arrived to his unit to find that a purple 8-pound medicine ball had been thrown over his unit fence, damaging the taxidermied calf and an oil painting. He wished police to document the incident to help with his insurance claim.
DEC. 7 100 PROOF
7:05 p.m. — First block of Trailmark Court, Ormond Beach Suspicious incident. A 42-year-old Ormond Beach woman took a swig of rum in her home, only to realize after swallowing that the liquid in the bottle smelled strongly of gasoline, and leading her to become sick.
The woman contacted police and reported the incident, which she suspected was her soon-to-be-ex-husband’s doing, according to an incident report. When she showed the reporting officer the bottle, he could smell the gasoline without the bottle leaving the bag it was wrapped in.
In an email to the Observer, DeSousa said he doesn’t feel like he deserves credit for what he did.
“Although I am very grateful and humbly appreciate all the recognition, I believe all the glory for this one goes to God for putting me in the right place at the right time and breathing life back into that little boy!” DeSousa said. DeSousa and his family were vacationing in Tennessee over the Thanksgiving holiday. On the morning of their visit to Dollywood, just after they entered the park, DeSousa’s wife heard someone yelling for help in the distance. They looked around and saw a small crowd of people.
“I could see a park employee was yelling to the crowd asking for a doctor or nurse,” DeSousa said. “So we started walking toward the crowd. And as I got closer, I noticed that someone was holding a young child about 4 or 5 years old. The child was completely limp and very pale, and his lips and eyelids were completely purple, indicating that he was not breathing. I
EGGED
8:33 p.m. — 1300 block of Northside Drive, Ormond Beach Vandalism. A 36-year-old Ormond Beach woman was watching TV in her living room when she heard “loud crashing sounds” coming from her front door.
The woman waited a while to find the source, as she was worried there was someone on the other side, according to a police incident report. But when she did open it, she didn’t find anybody: Only broken egg shell and egg yolks. They were on her sidewalk and on her front door. When she walked around to her car, she discovered her car had also been egged. She wished to press charges.
DEC. 11
FAMILY TROUBLES
7:21 p.m. — Slogan Court, Palm Coast Obstruct without violence. A 30-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested after his mother called Sheriff’s Office deputies on him for playing loud music.
The woman told deputies that she had repeatedly told her son to turn down the volume of his music. He did at first, she said, but then immediately turned the volume back up after she left the room, according to an arrest report. She yelled at him to turn it down again, and he began calling her “derogatory names,” so she called 911.
Though nothing physical happened, she told deputies he had “in recent past” threatened to hurt others with an empty glass vodka bottle he
don’t know how long that he wasn’t breathing for, but as I went over, I told the employee I was a first responder and to give me the child to me, which they did.”
The boy’s parents told him they thought their child was choking on a cough drop or hard candy. DeSousa did not seen anything in the boy’s mouth but could see that he had bitten his tongue which indicated to DeSousa that the boy might have also been having a seizure. He laid the boy down and immediately started performing CPR. He instructed an employee to call 911 and get an ambulance immediately.
As DeSousa continued chest compressions, a park medical employee arrived with with a medical bag containing an AED and other medical equipment. A paramedic who was there with his family, also arrived and started to assess the boy’s condition.
“As I continued with chest compressions and looked down at this little child’s face, all I could do in my head was pray that God would just
had in his room.
She asked the two deputies to check out her son’s room, the report said. The deputies went to do so, but the son, who had been outside talking another deputy, refused to stay outside and tried to go back into his bedroom.
Because he wouldn’t stay outside, deputies placed the 30-year-old under arrest and in the back of a patrol vehicle, where the man threw up over the seat and on the ground outside. Deputies found the empty vodka bottle and eight hard lemonade cans in the man’s room.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
5:59 p.m. — South State Street and Hibiscus Avenue, Flagler County Fentanyl possession. A Bunnell man was arrested for drug possession after he volunteered to be searched.
Two deputies were driving north on Highway U.S. 1 in the left lane when they pulled a car over because, despite the deputy approaching behind him “at a higher rate of speed,” the car stayed in the left lane.
As one deputy spoke to the driver about the traffic violation, another spoke to the passenger, who he knew was a former criminal. The Bunnell man said he’d turned his life around and consented to having his person search when the deputy asked, the report said.
As he was emptying his pockets, the deputy saw a plastic container with white powder that turned out to be fentanyl. The man was placed under arrest.
breathe life back into this little boy’s body, because we were trying so hard to resuscitate him,” DeSousa said. “After a
BRIEFS
House fire in Ormond results in death of pet
A structure fire in the 300 block of Roosevelt Drive on Monday, Dec. 9, resulted in the death of one pet at the scene.
Ormond Beach Fire Department crews responded to the fire, which started in the kitchen, around 6:45 p.m., according to a Facebook post.
The homeowners were unharmed. Two pets were transported to an emergency animal hospital for treatment.
‘Quit Smoking Now’ sessions for new mothers to begin Jan. 7
A four-week “Quit Smoking Now” course, available to pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding mothers and their family members, will be offered at the Flagler County Health Department, 301 Dr. Carter Blvd., Bunnell.
The free sessions will run once a week 5:30-6:30 p.m. on consecutive Tuesdays, Jan. 7-28, 2025, and will cover reasons and benefits of quitting, your quit plan, becoming tobacco/nicotine free and preventing relapse.
This course will offer gift cards to all attendees, with a total value up to $125. Additionally, diapers and wipes will be distributed each week along with other baby-related incentives for all participants.
few more compressions, the little boy took a huge gasp of air and started breathing again. His breathing was a
very labored breathing, and it was obvious that he was having some kind of a medical emergency and was very lethargic, and his eyes were rolled back in his head.
“It wasn’t too long after that a firetruck and ambulance showed up to the back gate and several paramedics came in with a gurney and took over. They were able to take the little boy and stabilize him for transport to the hospital. I spoke with the parents for a few minutes afterwards saying that I was so thankful that he was breathing again and tried to assure them that he would be fine and he was in good hands.”
That was the last that
DeSousa saw the boy or his parents.
“I do not know the outcome of his visit to the hospital or any other information about him,” DeSousa said. “I just hope and pray that everything was OK and that he made a full recovery and is back doing what he loves!”
Nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges will also be distributed for ages 18 and older if medically appropriate.
Register at tffact.com/c/ jqrkv. For more information, call the Northeast Florida Area Health Education Center at 904-482-0189
Votran, VoRide
to adjust schedule for holidays
Votran and VoRide will adjust their services and administrative operations on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2025.
On both holidays, Votran buses will operate on a regular Sunday schedule. Routes and services that do not typically run on Sundays, such as the New Smyrna Beach Flex and the DeLand
SunRail Circulator, will not operate. Votran Gold Service will provide limited service in East Volusia only, and VoRide services will not be available on these dates. Volusia County Transit Services administrative offices and Votran’s customer service center will also be closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, 2025. Regular service and administrative operations will continue as usual on all other days, including Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, and New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31. For detailed route and service information, riders can visit www.votran.org or use the myStop mobile app. For questions about the holiday schedule, contact Votran customer service at 386761-7700. VoRide-specific inquiries can be directed to 386-210-9861.
Ormond Beach Firefighters Cannon Tarnow and Garrett Fiske help a dog on the scene of the fire on Roosevelt Drive. Photo courtesy of the Ormond Beach Fire Department/Pauline Dulang
While on vacation with his family at Dollywood, Flagler County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Paul DeSousa performed CPR on a young boy until paramedics could arrive on the scene. Photo courtesy of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
Ragga Surf Cafe must go, as Flagler County faces threats from FDEP
The cafe must vacate its location at 9700 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. at the River to Sea Preserve by the end of the year, state says.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The Ragga Surf Cafe must pack its bags, as Flagler County is facing noncompliance issues from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for allowing the cafe to operate at the River to Sea Preserve.
“No good deed goes unpunished,” Vice Chair Leann Pennington said.
The county and the town of Marineland jointly own and manage the River to Sea Preserve, where Ragga Surf has been allowed to operate since September. But in the rush to help support a local business that benefits a nonprofit, the county and town are now at risk of losing the River to Sea Preserve.
The issue started at the Aug. 19 Flagler County Commission meeting when, during commissioner comments, Commissioner Greg Hansen brought up Ragga Surf’s eviction from a site on property owned by JDI Marineland, just north of the café’s current location at the River to Sea Preserve at 9700 N. Ocean Shore Blvd.
Typically, to lease land to a for-profit business, the county is required to send the prospective site out for an official bid process. County Attorney Sean Moylan, at the Aug. 19 meeting, said Florida Statutes allow the county to lease land to nonprofit corporations without going out for bid.
Ragga Surf’s nonprofit is Inter-United, which supports a local soccer group of 700 Palm Coast children and a school in Kenya, Ragga Surf owner Jim Powell told the commission.
County Administrator Heidi Petito said at the time that the commission would have to review the lease agreement again that September, but, according to Flagler County Commission meeting documents, the item did not return to the commission for review.
At the Dec. 16 meeting, Pennington explicitly asked why the item never came back before the board.
“I thought that legal told us that this was going to be requiring a resolution to be brought back,” she said. “We should have known that the DEP was going to require action there before we put someone there.”
No one at the Aug. 19 meeting brought up the fact
that Preserve was purchased through grant funding from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida’s Community Trust grant program. The grant’s contract requires the county and town to follow certain criteria when operating businesses on the preserve’s land.
In November, Flagler County received a notice from the FCT that the River to Sea Preserve was in noncompliance with the county’s contract with FCT. At the Dec. 16 meeting, Petito said the noncompliance items included the 5K events, the monthly Marineland Market event and Ragga Surf’s presence on the Preserve.
“FCT did not weigh in on that approval,” Petito said. Ragga Surf was notified in November that it would need to vacate the premises by the end of the calendar year.
Ragga Surf co-owner Jim Powell thanked the commission on Dec. 16 for allowing the cafe to stay on the site for the last four months. He pleaded with the county to find a way to extend the endof-year deadline.
“I’m here tonight just to ask you to come through for this community of people again,” Powell said. “In the holiday season, it is near impossible to relocate and keep our people employed beyond Dec. 31.”
‘SAVE RAGGA SURF’
On Dec. 11, Ragga Surf reached out to the public on social media asking for the public’s support to help save Ragga Surf Cafe.
The campaign included a petition for Flagler County and Marineland to extend the business’ temporary use permit. Since launching the petition on Dec. 11, it has received over 8,000 signatures.
But Flagler County said its hands were tied. In a statement released in response to the online campaign, the county said when FDEP learned Ragga Surf was on the Preseve, it immediately
“Ragga Surf Cafe and their subsidiary organizations have built a bridge that brings community together and a place for us all to sit at the same table. That is a gift without a price tag.”
LISA HOGAN
instructed Flagler County and Marineland to remove Ragga from the premises.
Though the county has had no choice but to comply, it said, it plans to continue working with Marineland and the FDEP to “hopefully allow for a concessionaire” at the Preserve in the future.
“The county does not question the value of Ragga Surf as an asset to the community, or that it has been a good steward of the Preserve,” the statement read.
Once the noncompliance issues are taken care of, Petito told the commission, it plans to continue the bid process so that Ragga Surf and other businesses can compete to be a concessionaire on the site.
Local residents have called Ragga Surf “a community hub” and have pleaded with Flagler County to bring the FDEP and FCT to the table before the end of December to figure out a solution.
Marineland resident Lisa Hogan said Ragga Surf has reached “iconic status” in the community in a very short amount of time.
“Ragga Surf Cafe and their subsidiary organizations have built a bridge that brings community together and a place for us all to sit at the same table,” Hogan said. “That is a gift without a price tag.”
Ragga Surf made several posts on its Facebook page about the situation. In one recent post, the cafe said that it is focusing now on Marineland’s Dec. 19 meeting where “we believe a plan can be put in place that is good for all.”
AdventHealth Palm Coast hosts interns from Project Search
AdventHealth Palm Coast has partnered with Project Search to provide interns and students hands-on experience.
Project Search partners Flagler Schools with local businesses and provides students with real-world job experiences to build skills for future careers and confidence in navigating the workplace. Through a collaboration with Project Search, students with disabilities are gaining opportunities to help them transition from school to meaningful employment and, for the first time, seven Project Search interns are thriving in various hospital departments at AdventHealth Palm Coast, an AdventHealth press release said.
The interns contribute in a variety of ways, such as delivering linens, managing supplies, and keeping the hospital clean and welcoming.
Flagler’s Barile becomes third FCSO member to graduate from FBI National Academy
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
Cmdr. Joe Barile became the third active FCSO member to graduate from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on Thursday, Dec. 12.
Barile graduated from the 292nd Session of the academy, joining the ranks of Sheriff Rick Staly who graduated from the 177th Session and Division Chief Jon Welker, of the 286th Session, a FCSO press release said.
“This is an honor for Cmdr. Barile and for the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office,” Staly
said. “Less than 1% of all law enforcement officers worldwide are invited to attend the FBI National Academy. This is truly a remarkable achievement for our community and agency.”
The program’s 10 weeks of coursework includes intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, and forensic science, the press release said. The FBI pays all costs for participants to attend, including travel, training, meals, and lodging.
Barile began his law enforcement career in 2007 as a deputy sheriff and currently oversees FCSO’s Homeland Security and Investigations Section, the press release said.
Barile is also a graduate of the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Commanders Academy and the 25th Session of the FBI’s Florida Executive Development Seminar.
Paramedic’s pet Welsh Corgi is Flagler Fire Rescue’s first therapy dog
There’s no better way for Flagler County Fire Rescue to embrace the holidays than with a pint-sized, — or Taco-sized — therapy dog to be its ambassador for public outreach events, as well as to provide comfort during traumatic circumstances.
Community Paramedic Rob Errett and his Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Taco took all the steps to be ready when duty calls and the call came on Wednesday, Dec. 11. They are graduates of Paws and Stripes College — created in 2006 by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office — that teaches handlers and their K-9 partners to provide emotional support to those in stressful
situations, whether to first responders themselves or those they serve.
“The usage of therapy dogs within emergency services is a growing trend to ensure the mental health of our citizens and our first responders,” Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker said.
“Taco is a rock star,” Errett said. “He was already very well trained. He always makes me look good. I was a little worried about my own abilities.”
Officially, Errett and Taco are members of the Flagler County Fire Rescue Peer Support Team and the Critical Incident Stress Management Team.
“Taco won’t come to work every day,” Errett said. “If the need arises, I can go home and get him. I live within 10 minutes (of the Government Services Complex).” He added: “All I want to do is to ease everyone’s burden. Flagler County is taking the mental health aspect of its employees and residents head-on. It is something to be reckoned with.”
Christmas Day Brunch
Wednesday, December 25, 2024
Ocean Ballroom • 11:00am - 3:00pm
This year, let our culinary team take care of the cooking. Featuring a farmer’s market salad, charcuterie boards, omelet and waffle stations, prime rib, fresh seafood, traditional breakfast entrées, assorted dessert selections and more!
To make reservations, please call 386.246.5676 or email christine.losagio@hammockbeach.com by December 22, 2024.
Image from Ragga Surf Facebook page
Courtesy photo
A call for School Board to act on recent remarks by Thompson
Leadership must reflect accountability, write founders of Citizens for Truth and Justice in Education.
SHEILA ZINKERMAN
JANE BRESLIN
LAUREL ROBINSON
GUEST WRITERS
We are writing on behalf of Citizens for Truth and Justice in Education of Volusia County regarding the August 2024 comments of School Board Chair Jessie Thompson at a Moms for Liberty Summit breakout session. Thompson’s comments
LETTERS
Not fine with Randy Fine
Dear Editor:
I used to be a Republican. When I heard Republican candidates campaign on being pro-freedom and liberty, for limited government and stated their belief in the principles of our Constitution and spirit of the Dec-
YOUR TOWN
Peabody Auditorium Foundation to present ‘Pete the Cat’ in January
As part of its new Young Audience Series, The Peabody Auditorium Foundation will present TheaterWorksUSA’s family musical, “Pete the Cat,” based on the popular book series at the News-Journal Center on Jan. 25, 2025, at 2 p.m.
The show tells the story of Pete the Cat and his journey in helping a second grader conquer his art.
“The Young Audience Series is a tremendous opportunity to bring a high caliber of theater to children and families in our community,” said PAF President Rene Bell Adams in a press release. “We are so grateful to our board and our sponsors for making this possible.”
The mission of the organization’s Young Audience Series is to provide youth and family audiences with affordable opportunities to experience engaging, educational and entertaining live cultural performances in our community that foster an appreciation of the arts.
Tickets to the show cost $25 each and can be purchased by visiting www.peabodyfoundation.org or calling 386- 631-1974.
Security First sponsors gifts for 230 children
This year, Security First Insurance sponsored 230 children in its ongoing partnership with Easterseals of Northeast Central Florida. This is an increase from the 125 children the company supported in 2023, according to a press release. A total of 96 team team members participated.
“Our longterm partnership with Easterseals is a testament to the generosity and dedication of our team,” said Melissa Burt DeVriese, president of Security First Insurance and current chair of the Board for Easterseals Northeast Central Florida.
“For 10 years, the employees of Security First have gener-
have raised significant concerns about ethical conduct and accountability. Specifically, Thompson publicly admitted to intentionally submitting false data to other School Board members for the purpose of influencing votes on an agenda item. If her claim is accurate, it represents a serious breach of trust and a violation of the integrity expected of an elected official. Decisions made on the basis of incorrect information undermine the credibility of the School Board and jeopardize the well-being of Volusia County’s students and staff. Further, we are deeply troubled by the disparaging
remarks made by Thompson about public school students and her fellow board members. While we acknowledge her apology on Dec. 10, Thompson never retracted her disparaging remarks; she only said she wished she hadn’t said them. Her statements reveal a concerning attitude that does not align with the principles of respect and representation that the School Board should embody.
We request the following actions from the School Board and the superintendent as appropriate:
1. Arrange for a Formal Investigation: Examine Thompson’s admission that she submitted false data to
influence school board votes. An independent review should determine the extent of her claims and recommend appropriate consequences if substantiated.
2. Reconsider Thompson’s Leadership Role: In light of the above concerns, we support the school board’s action to reconsider Jessie Thompson’s position as chair. Leadership must reflect accountability, respect for all community members, and a commitment to ethical governance.
3. Reaffirm Commitment to Inclusivity: Establish clear guidelines to ensure that School Board members and their meetings remain inclu-
sive and representative of the diverse student population by removing Thompson’s Christian Bible off the public dais during public meetings.
We stand with community leaders, including Deltona Mayor Santiago Avila, School Board Member Ruben Colon, and dedicated public school community advocates like Dana McCool, in calling for actions that uphold the integrity of the School Board by reconsidering and removing Jessie Thompson as School Board chair.
Editor’s note: Jessie Thompson was given a chance to respond, but the Observer did not hear back prior to publication.
laration of Independence, I believed them and voted for them. After election, and swearing in via the Oath of Office to uphold the Constitution, it came time to put those smaller government campaign promises into action. But, unfortunately, I end up being disappointed. Republicans in government office would build voting
records of favoring record high spending of tax dollars and anti-Constitutional infringement laws. Sad. A perfect example is candidate for Congressional District 6 Randy Fine. As a State Legislator, Fine has voted for record high budgets as well as a tax increase (SB50 2021). This goes against the “fiscally conservative” moniker. The Second Amendment was also shot down by Representative Fine when he vot-
ed for enacting Red Flag law, raising the age to purchase a firearm in Florida, waiting period and banning bumpstocks bill (SB7026 2018). Randy Fine also silenced the First Amendment right of peaceful protestors to exercise free speech by threat of being arrested if others decided to riot when he voted for the “Anti-Riot” bill (HB1 2021), a part of which later had to be struck down by courts as unconstitutional.
ously purchased gifts for the clients of Easterseals during the holidays — and I’m so proud of our team for being able to increase our support from 125 to 230 children. It shows how supportive our team is of Easterseals and all the amazing work they do to help individuals with disabilities in our community.”
Easterseals provides services, education, outreach and advocacy to help people with autism and other disabilities.
In the press release, Susan Moor, vice president of philanthropy at Easterseals, expressed her gratitude.
“Security First Insurance really stepped up, showing what it means to care and make a difference,” Moor said.
“Thanks to their ongoing support, we’re making the holidays brighter and building a more inclusive future together.”
Teddy Morse’s Harley-Davidson hosts successful Toys for Tots ride
Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson hosted its annual Toys for Tots Ride on Sunday, Dec. 8, at Destination Daytona, filling two trailers to the brim with gifts. The ride kicked off at 10:30 a.m., led by Santa Claus himself, creating a festive atmosphere as participants revved their engines in support of local children in need. The riders made their way to Walmart on West Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach, where a special parking area was reserved just for them.
Daytona Harley brought two trailers to collect donations. Riders purchased toys — including bicycles, skate-
boards, scooters, stuffed animals, games, dolls, and more — loading them into the dealership’s trailers.
The toy haul has now taken residence in the showroom at Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, awaiting pickup by the Volusia County Marine Toys for Tots for distribution.
To express gratitude to all the riders who participated and made a significant difference for the children, Daytona Harley treated everyone who returned to the dealership to a complimentary hot lunch at Open Road Cafe.
“We wanted to give back to all our riders for showing up and making a difference for the kids,” Marketing Manager Rebecca Young said.
Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson looks forward to continuing this tradition and making a positive impact in the lives of children during the holiday season.
Halifax Humane Society Fur Ball raises $500K
The Halifax Humane Society’s Paws & Pearls Fur Ball surpassed its $400,000 fundraising goal, raising a record-breaking $537,501 for animal welfare programs in Volusia County.
Held at the Ocean Center on Dec. 5, the black-tie gala, presented by Subaru of Daytona, united over 600 of the region’s most passionate animal advocates and community leaders, a press release stated. Emmy-winning television star Brandon McMillan, of CBS’s Lucky Dog, headlined the event.
“This milestone achievement is a testament to the incredible kindness and
commitment of our community,” said Sean Hawkins, CEO of Halifax Humane Society.
“Thanks to the unwavering support of Subaru of Daytona, our sponsors, and every single guest, we can continue saving the lives of the 15,000 animals who depend on us every year.”
At the gala, Michele Connors of S.R. Perrott received the Animal Hero Award.
Additionally, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood presented the K9 Officer of the Year Award to Senior Deputy Michael Webb and K9 Aiko.
The event was emceed by WKMG-TV News 6 Anchor Ginger Gadsden.
“This event exceeded every expectation, thanks to the incredible dedication of our sponsors, donors and volunteers,” Gala Chairwoman Nancy Lohman said. “Each dollar raised ensures that thousands of animals receive the care, love, and second chances they so deeply deserve.”
The funds raised will bolster
I encourage all voters in Ormond Beach to research all the candidates on their ballots and not just trust the rhetoric. Too often candidate campaign promises don’t equal according legislative action.”
JOE HANNOUSH Ormond Beach
the Halifax Humane Society’s programs, including comprehensive veterinary care, foster services and adoption
Nancy and Lowell Lohman honored by local Lions Clubs
The Lions International Melvin Jones Fellowship was presented to Nancy and Lowell Lohman at the Dec. 8 celebration of the Ormond Beach Lions Club’s 70th anniversary, as well as the Ormond-bythe-Sea Lions Club’s 20th anniversary.
The award commemorates the Lohmans’ dedication and support of diabetes awareness, a Lions International goal through the world through their Lions in over 200 countries in the world.
The award was applied for by the Daytona-Halifax Lions Club. The presentation was made by Lion Greg Evans, a member of the Ormond By The Sea Lions, with the assistance of Past International Lions Director Neal Spencer.
Healthier, Wealthier, Wiser hosts first brunch fundraiser
Over 50 people attended Healthier. Wealthier. Wiser. Inc.’s first brunch buffet fundraiser at the Anderson-Price Memorial Building in Ormond Beach on Saturday, Dec. 7.
The event featured Tina Carlyle, of Access Senior Resources and Consulting LLC, as the keynote speaker. The goal of the fundraiser was to be able to sponsor 10 in-person health seminars in 2025 and add a new component by giving away two home
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Wiser. Inc. Courtesy photo “If
device baskets at each seminar. According to a statement to the Observer, the baskets will include thermometers, blood pressure oximeters and glucose monitors.
“We hope we will continue to receive donations in December to allow HWW to continue serving our communities with ‘Seminar Saturday Series,’” founder and Executive Director Belinda Davis said. “HWW will communicate the final fundraiser numbers in January 2025. This truly was a work in progress with pieces that came together to accomplish our goals.” In addition to the brunch — which was composed of grits and shrimp, salmon cakes, scrambled eggs, and turkey sausage — there were also holiday gift basket raffles.
“Our team of board, executive committee, family, volunteers came together to assure we had a successful fundraiser,” Davis said. “We hope in our last meeting for the year the board decides to continue, and our fundraiser annual brunch buffet will be permanent and continue in 2025. Right now, I just hope and pray I enjoy this dream and journey.”
Lohman,
Halifax Humane Society Vice President and Gala Chairwoman Nancy
President Mike Leonard, board member JJ Roberts and Secretary Vonda Sullivan. Courtesy photo
Security First Insurance sponsored gifts for children of Easterseals. Courtesy photo
Michelle Postell, Juanita Shropshire and Belinda Davis, founder of Healthier. Wealthier.
INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723 info@observerlocalnews.com classifieds.observerlocalnews.com
The
$199, A New Adult Wheelchair $99, Washer and Dryer $99 386-8529116
Last minute HOLIDAY GIFTS & GARAGE SALE! 27 ROCKET LANE Fri- Sun 12/21- 12/23, 7:30 AM-3:30 PM Tons of Brand new unopened items for kids & adults, Name brand clothing, along with housewares, scrubs, furniture, tv’s, 2007 mustang and some free items. Too much to mention, MOVING & MUST SELL EVERYTHING. NO OFFER REFUSED! 27 Rocket Lane Palm coast. Rain or Shine.
Lora@LoraFickett.com
READY. SET. SHAVE!
Did you know facial hair has value? At Fletcher’s Irish Pub’s Shave for the Brave event, it does.
The annual event raises money for the Live Like Cameron foundation to help spread holiday cheer to pediatric oncology patients.
Proper Barber Co. of Ormond
Beach shaved participants’ facial hair for charity. Thirty partici-
pants were shaved, including the owner of Fletcher’s Irish Pub, Bill Fletcher. Donations, along with 10% of all tips from the pub, will go to the foundation.
Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance and gave children a chance for last minute wishes. A raffle with multiple prizes, a bake sale and a corn hole tournament took place at the event, as well.
– ALEXIS MILLER
‘We crushed it’
Professional Women of Flagler County celebrate $25,000 in grant giving.
BRIAN MCMILLAN
PUBLISHER
In her final moments as president of the Professional Women of Flagler County, Diane Vidal got a chance to brag a little about the women in the room.
“This isn’t just an event, it’s a movement,” Vidal said at the soldout annual gala, held Dec. 12, at the Hilton Garden Inn. “We set out to make history, and guess what? We crushed it.”
The organization gave out $25,000 in Go Girl Grants this year, plus $2,500 in scholarships.
Just as important, Vidal said, is
the network of women supported by other women.
“We dream big, we work hard, and then we show up looking fabulous,” she said.
The Executive Board for 2024 comprised Vanessa Cole, Dr. Erika Equizi, Tracie Cotto and Nina Guiglotto. Directors were Kara King, Sarah McPherson, Lora Fickett, Kathleen Rivera and Kelly Chapman. Chairs: Diane Campbell, Michelle Gordon and Christine Sullivan.
The incoming board is as follows: President Cole, Vice President Equizi, Secretary Chapman, Treasurer Cotto, Immediate Past President Vidal, Director of Events Lisa Byer, Director of Membership Amy Dumas, and Director of Marketing Stephanie Ellis.
Go Girl Grant recipients are as follows: Allyson Rucci, Anna Wieczorek, Monica Necula, Michelle Martin, Dr. Margaret Lessig, Tiffany Rufino, Kay Click, Caroline Johnson,
Lauren Ramirez, Michelle Bartome, Derin White, Cheri Routzahn, Amy Dumas, Lacy Martin, Erica Flores and Andrea Williams.
Kay Click also won the Rising Star award. April Koehler and Stephanie Ellis were also nominated.
Business of the Year went to Teresa Rand Consulting, led by Teresa Rand. Also recognized: Tiffany Rufino Agency, led by Tiffany Rufino; and Salus Medical Training, led by Lauren Ramirez.
Woman of the Year was Lacy Martin. Also recognized: Erica Flores and Caroline Johnson.
Martin said it was an honor to receive the award.
“It means that the values I hold dear — integrity, perseverance, and commitment to service — are seen and valued by others,” she said in an email to the Observer. “This recognition is not just for me; it’s for the many women who work tirelessly to
“We dream big, we work hard, and then we show up looking fabulous.”
DIANE VIDAL, immediate past president
create positive change and break barriers.”
She said she hopes other women hear the same message: “Your voice, your skills, and your presence matter. Never underestimate the impact you can have. … When one woman rises, we all rise together.”
Jim Smith gets shaved by Julius Calder.
Barbers Johnny Sutliff, Julius Calder and Tristian Smith with Proper Barber Co.
Keith “Chappy” McBride plays corn hole in the tournament.
Santa and Mrs. Claus spread holiday cheer at Shave for the Brave.
Dan and Melisa Fulling, of Live Like Cameron, and Fletcher’s Irish Pub Owners Jeanine and Bill Fletcher. Photos by Alexis Miller
Tristian Smith makes sure to get every spot on Mike Graham's face.
Alicia Ramirez, Kelly Chapman, Carmen Komninakis and Trang Dang.
PWFC President Vanessa Cole, Emerging Star Kay Click and Immediate Past President Diane Vidal. Photo courtesy of Son of the Sea Productions
LOCAL EVENTS
show features songs such as “Sleigh Ride”, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”, and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The show hosts special guests, The American Sirens. Tickets start at $54. Visit flaglerauditorium.org.
FRIDAY, DEC. 20
JINGLES & JAMMIES
When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 20 and 21
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Claus.
ORMOND BEACH AREA
DEMOCRATIC CLUB
HOLIDAY GATHERING AND MEETING
When: 6:30-8:15 p.m.
Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Attend the December meeting of the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club. There will be a holiday gathering social time with refreshments, followed by a brief meeting with updates on activities and a time for group sharing. Likeminded guests are welcomed. Visit ormondbeachdems.org.
SLEIGHBELLS AND THE ‘60S
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, 5500 S.R 100, Palm Coast
Details: PBS star Chris
Ruggiero’s new Christmas
Details: Halifax Repertory Theatre will host this festive fundraiser for its 2025 season. The HRT singers will perform holiday favorites while dressed in Christmas pajamas. Guests are encouraged to wear their own Christmas pajamas or holiday sweaters. Tickets cost $35. Visit ormondbeach.org/267/ Performing-Arts-Center.
SATURDAY, DEC. 21
DONUTS WITH SANTA When: 8-11 a.m.
Where: Serendipity Marketplace, 5 Commercial Court, Palm Coast
Details: Join for pictures with Santa, donuts, muffins, cookies, drinks and shopping. Costs $10 per child. Call 386264-6256.
ART IN THE PARK
When: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: Join Vincent’s Clubhouse for its “Art in the Park” program hosted by Allie Langan and Erica Mendes. All ages are welcome. Admission costs $10. All supplies and refreshments are included.
GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH FOOD PANTRY
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: God’s Family Church parking lot, 256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell
Details: God’s Family Church distributes food to the com-
munity every first and third Saturday of the month. This is a drive-thru event.
COOKIES WITH MRS. CLAUS HOLIDAY SOCIAL
When: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: The Enrichment Center at Vincent’s Clubhouse, 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, Unit 120, Palm Coast
Details: Join Vincent’s Clubhouse for a morning of festive treats, cookies, holiday crafts and a singalong with Ellie the Elf. Event costs $10 per person. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/543020911691366.
HONEYBEE BUZZ: HEROES OF OUR PLANET, MAKING HONEY HAPPEN
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach
Details: Join beekeepers Bill and Barry for an educational program about the importance of honey bees, Florida native bee-friendly plants and what is involved in raising honeybees and harvesting their honey. Park entry fee of $5 per vehicle applies.
WINTER WONDERLAND
FAMILY EDITION
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Southern Recreation Center, 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: The Leo’s Club is transforming the upstairs of the Southern Recreation Venter for this holiday event, featuring family-friendly dining with food from Redefined Food Co. and crafts for kids. Free event.
FLAGLER BEACH GOLF
CART PARADE
When: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Santa Maria del Mar Catholic Church, 915 N. Central Ave., Flagler Beach
Details: Decorate your golf cart and join Flagler Strong for a parade that will travel north on North Daytona
Avenue and then south down
South Central Avenue. At 10th Street North, the parade will turn down North Flagler Avenue, cross State Road 100, pass South 3rd St and then go onto South Central Avenue to Beachfront Grill. Tickets cost between $10-$50 and include lunch. Ribbons will be awarded to the best decorated carts. All proceeds will benefit Christmas Come True.
WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn to paint in watercolor with artist Bibi Gromling. All supplies included in the $75 class fee. No drawing required. Class is limited to six students. Call 386-3179400 to reserve a spot.
MONDAY, DEC. 23
FIRST COAST METAL
DETECTIVE CLUB MEETING
When: 7-8:30 a.m.
Where: Palm Coast VFW 8696, 47 Old Kings Road, Palm Coast
Details: This meeting is for beginners and experts and consists of member displays of old and new finds. Learn about the newest metal detectors, current local and state rules and local history. Each month, a hunt is held at the beach or old land permission. We also cooperate with the Flagler County Historical Society. Visitors welcome.
SATURDAY, DEC. 28
RECIPES AND READS
CULINARY LAB
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn about the history of “lucky” foods, presented by library staff. Free and open to the public. Registration not required.
SATURDAY, JAN. 4
CHRISTMAS TREE
RECYCLING EVENT 2025
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast Fuel Depot, 22 Utility Drive, Palm Coast
Details: Recycle your undecorated Christmas tree and receive a free 3-gallon tree or shrub, while supplies last. Recycled trees will be turned into mulch for parks and trails. There will also be free paper shredding services.
ONGOING
POINSETTIA SALE
When: Saturday, Nov. 23, until supplies last Where: St Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church, 1000
Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond
Beach
Details: The annual Christmas poinsettia sale, sponsored by the Father Eamonn Gill Council 13018 Knights of Columbus, will take place in the church parking lots on Saturdays from 3-5 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., until supplies last. Fresh, locally grown flowers in sizes from 6-14-inch pots are available in various colors. Advance orders are not required, but you may order any quantity for pickup by calling Vince at 386-795-4260. The proceeds support thecharitable works of the Knights of Columbus in the community.
MEMORY MAKERS
QUILT GUILD
When: 9:30 a.m. to noon on the first Wednesday of each month Where: UF/IFAS Extension Flagler County Education Center, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell Details: Join the Memory Makers Quilt Guild. All are welcome.
BAM SENIOR FITNESS CLASS When: 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays Where: Palm Coast First Baptist Church, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast Details: Join this Balance and Motion class and develop strength and endurance, core stability and balance. The class is open to all fitness levels and free with most insurances. A donation is accepted for those without coverage. Visit synergyseniorfitness. com or call 386-931-3485.
WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB
When: 12:30-2 p.m. every Tuesday Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: The book club meets in the Marchman Building, room 117. Contact Sylvia Meincke at 386-451-5223.
MOMS OF PRE SCHOOLERS
When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Friday of the month
Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Moms of Pre Schoolers is a free faith-based program for moms, moms-tobe and their preschoolers for support and encouragement. Breakfast is provided, as well as a video with discussion and crafts. Playtime offered for children, with adult supervision. Call 386-255-2588.
YOUR TOWN
L.R. Corbett’s latest children’s book takes flight
Flagler County author L.R. Corbett has released her latest children’s book, “Don’t Be Late, The Plane is at the Gate,” expanding her collection of travel-inspired stories for young readers.
The book follows Joey, a young boy whose procrastination and distractions lead to a chaotic airport adventure, teaching lessons about responsibility and time management.
Corbett also writes adult romantic suspense novels under a pen name. Her travelthemed collection — which includes stories about New York City, National Parks and road trip adventures — also features companion coloring books with activity books in development.
For more information about her books and appearances, visit Travelcolorrepeat.com.
First Baptist Christian Academy hosts college and career fair
First Baptist Christian Academy hosted its first High School College and Career Fair for high school students on Dec. 5.
The event provided FBCA students with valuable opportunities to explore higher education and career options and to connect with college representatives, local businesses and professionals from various industries, according to a press release. Students engaged with local colleges and organizations and gained insights into various careers.
L.R. Corbett with her children’s book, “Don’t Be Late, the Plane is at the Gate.” Courtesy photo
Waterways aglow with Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade
The 41st annual Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade ended a weekend of local holiday events.
OBSERVER STAFF
Palm Coast celebrated the 41st annual Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade’s on Dec. 15. Palm Coast had a weekend of holiday-themed events
from Dec. 13-15, culminating with the Palm Coast Yacht Club’s annual holiday boat parade. Residents were able to view the parade for free either as it meandered up and down the Intracoastal Waterway either live from several city parks and locations or through a live by Flagler Broadcasting on KOOL-FM, 100.9
The 2024 parade was held in honor of Sheriff’s Office Dispatcher Megan Burton, who was named Florida Sheriff Association Dispatcher of
the Year. Burton served as the parade’s grand marshal.
“As always, Palm Coast boaters threw in their all to make this a special event for the city,” Parade Chairperson
Sarah Ulis wrote in an email to the Observer
Ulis wrote that several events coincided so that num-
ber of participants was down from the 2023 parade, which had 108 registered participants, with even more boaters joining in last minute and unregistered. This year, the parade was on a Sunday, she wrote, so most people had work or school the next, and there was big game on that night. “But by all accounts, it still impressed and we continue to be proud of this wonderful parade,” Ulis wrote over email. “I have established that the 2025 parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13, and the mayor is supporting that. Thank you, Palm Coast.”
Local officers help 125 children shop for Christmas
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Children’s Charities nonprofit was able to give each child a $225 gift card to spend.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Christmas has come for 125 children from struggling Flagler County families thanks to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Shop with a Cop. FCSO and other local law enforcement deputies, officers and employees were each assigned a child and given a $225 gift card for their child to spend at Palm Coast’s Walmart Supercenter on gifts for themselves and their families. The gift card money was raised through FCSO employees, community organizations and individuals who donated over $35,000 to the Flagler Sheriff’s Children’s Charities for the event, a FCSO press release said.
FCSO employees alone donated $24,200 through voluntary payroll deductions in 2024. Sheriff Rick Staly thanked everyone who donated to help support the county’s children in need. “Shop with a Cop is an event that we look forward to every year, and it would not be possible without the gracious support of our employees and these great people and organizations in our community,” Staly said.
On Friday, Dec. 13, law enforcement officers and employees picked up the children enrolled for Shop with a Cop from their homes and brought them to the FCSO Operations Center for holiday-themed games and fun, including the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and
the Grinch. Afterwards, law enforcement officers escorted the children across town to the store in a police motorcade to begin Christmas shopping. The goal of Shop with a Cop is to help children and families who are struggling and experiencing situations like economic hardships, victims of domestic violence or are children who have been placed in foster care, the press release said. FCSO employees and Flagler Schools staff nominate children to participate in event.
The Flagler Sheriff’s Childrens Charities also received donations from A Morea Group; AMVETS Post 113, AMVETS Lady’s Auxiliary 113, and Sons of AMVETS 113; the Bunnell Police Department; Christ Lutheran Church; the Douglas family; Environmental Land Services; the Flagler County Tax Collector’s Office; Hammock Hardware; JMB Quality Construction; Knights of the Inferno Firefighters Motorcycle Club; Mark Dyberg with Seniors vs. Crimes; Pioneer Guns &
Jake Sullivan, Casey Jennings and Dr. Holly Richmond.
Brittany Rogers and Blu.
Scenes from the Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade. Photos by Danny Broadhurst
Capt. Art and his crew, at the Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade.
The Fitzpatrick family, at the Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade.
Sienna Kohlbrecker and her friend Emily Cintron were Glinda and Elphaba on the “Defying Gravity” boat themed after “Wicked.”Photo by Ian Swaby
Deputy Hayleigh Prentiss helps Olivia Reed load stuffed animals into their basket.
Cmdr. Althea Civil helps siblings Zaine and Laya pick out toys for Shop with a Cop.
Santa Claus greets children and law enforcement alike. Photos by Sierra Williams
Dr. Daniel Warner MD, MS, AAHIVS has proudly partnered with Midway Specialty Care.
REAL ESTATE
Hammock Dunes home sells for $1.5 million
Ahouse at 167 Island Estates Parkway in Hammock Dunes was the top real estate transaction for Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Dec. 3, for $1,500,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace and 3,105 square feet.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER PALM COAST
on Dec. 5, for $444,900. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3 and has 3,002 square feet.
A house at 84 Westbury Lane sold on Dec. 5, for $445,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,928 square feet.
Plantation Bay A house at 642 Woodbridge Drive sold on Dec. 5, for $989,777. Built in 2020, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 3,020 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $799,000.
and has 1,640 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $300,000.
Indian Trails
A house at 7 Ballenger Lane sold on Dec. 6, for $307,500. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,862 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $243,100.
Ocean Hammock A house at 24 Blue Heron Lane sold on Dec. 2, for $1,151,000. Built in 2012, the house is a 3/3.5 and has a pool, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace and 2,990 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $750,000.
Dr. Warner comes to us with extensive experience in Infectious Disease and HIV care. His passion for his patients, commitment to excellence, and collaborative approach align perfectly with the values we uphold here at Midway. We are excited to see how his expertise will enhance our services and help us continue to provide the highest level of care to our community.
Expert care for HIV and related conditions from Florida’s Infectious Disease Specialists
Daniel Warner MD, MS, AAHIVS
Condos A condo at 60 Surfview Drive, Unit 512, sold on Dec. 4, for $817,500. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has two garage spaces and 1,792 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $810,000.
A condo at 18 Salisbury Court sold on Dec. 6, for $193,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,098 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $130,000.
A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 331, sold on Dec. 5, for $310,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $185,000.
A condo at 60 Surfview Drive, Unit 717, sold on Dec. 2, for $630,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2.5
Lehigh Woods
A house at 4 Ricker Place sold on Dec. 6, for $429,015. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,337 square feet.
Matanzas Cove A house at 38 Matanzas Cove Drive sold on Dec. 2, for $399,900. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,623 square feet.
Palm Harbor A house at 9 Fordney Place sold on Dec. 3, for $335,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 1,832 square feet. It sold in 1991 for $78,500.
Pine Lakes A house at 1 Rivera Lane sold
House on A1A is Ormond’s top sale
Ahouse at 3010 Ocean Shore Blvd. in the Avalon By The Sea subdivision was the top real estate transaction for Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. The house sold on Dec. 5, for $1,140,000. Built in 2008, the house is a 4/4 and has 3,300 square feet.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 1 John Anderson Drive, Unit 6120, sold on Dec. 2, for $455,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 2,230 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $210,000.
The condo at 120 Limewood Place, Unit F, sold on Dec. 6, for $165,000. Built in 1986, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,110 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $68,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Breakaway Trails
The house at 6 Shadowcreek Way sold on Dec. 2, for $800,000. Built in 1988, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 3,412 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $419,000.
Daytona Oak Ridge
The house at 56 Oak Ave. sold on Dec. 6, for $410,500. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, standalone studio and 2,356 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $260,000.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 1406 Dolph Circle sold on Dec. 2, for $634,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,348 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $350,000.
The townhome at 3121 Kailani Court sold on Dec. 2, for $315,000. Built in 2002, the townhome is a 3/2 and has 1,684 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $149,000.
The house at 1400 Kinnard Circle sold on Dec. 2, for $750,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, spa and 3,185 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $160,000.
The house at 2644 Kinsale Lane sold on Dec. 5, for $299,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,608 square feet.
The house at 1325 Antrim Circle sold on Dec. 6, for $570,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,501 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $345,000.
Ormond Lakes The house at 8 Grackle Lane sold on Dec. 2, for $465,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,169 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $435,000.
The house at 10 Deerskin Lane sold on Dec. 6, for $439,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/2.5 and has 2,284 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $270,000.
Park Ridge The house at 4 Parkview Lane sold on Dec. 2, for
Sawmill Branch A house at 5 Mill Wheel Court sold on Dec. 5, for $371,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,986 square feet. A house at 11 Springwood Drive South sold on Dec. 6 for $318,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,862 square feet.
Seminole Woods A house at 6 Senseney Path sold on Dec. 6, for $400,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 1,800 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $151,400. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
$295,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,596 square feet. It last sold in 1992 for $91,100.
Pineland The house at 309 Sandoval Drive sold on Dec. 6, for $429,250. Built in 2020, the house is a 5/3.5 and has 2,838 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $321,200.
Tomoka Estates The house at 1153 George Anderson St. sold on Dec. 4, for $355,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,640 square feet. It last sold in 1994 for $87,000.
Tymber Crossings
The house at 31 Clydesdale Drive sold on Dec. 6, for $415,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,039 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $199,900.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Atlantic Shores
The house at 124 Marlin Drive sold on Dec. 3, for $386,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,311 square feet. It last sold in 1994 for $76,800.
Not in subdivision
The house at 45 Berkley Road sold on Dec. 5, for $233,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 2/2 and has 754 square feet. It last sold in 1971 for $12,500.
Ocean Crest The house at 5 Sunset Boulevard sold on Dec. 2, for $430,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/1.5 and has 1,596 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $115,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron and Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
COMICS
Non Sequitur Nancy
Mother Goose and Grimm
The Duplex
In the Bleachers
Cornered
Ziggy The Fusco Brothers
SPORTS
FPC, hot at the line, rallies from 12 points down to defeat Matanzas
The Bulldogs hit 25 of 33 free throws to defeat the Pirates 5648 in rivalry game.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast basketball player Zac Murphy was unable to play against rival Matanzas on Friday, Dec. 13, because of an injury, but he had a role in the Bulldogs’ 56-48 comeback victory, FPC leading scorer Anthony Hampton said.
Murphy’s motivational speech at halftime helped FPC rally from a 28-16 deficit at a packed Pirates’ gym, said Hampton who scored 14 of his team-high 19 points in the second half.
“Zac talked to us in the locker room,” Hampton said. “He uplifted us. He gave us confidence. He told us to pick our heads up and be aggressive.”
The Bulldogs (4-4) won their fourth game in a row after starting the season at 0-4. Matanzas fell to 2-6. The win snapped FPC’s two-game losing streak against its rival.
Nateshawn Royal, who added 14 points, hit a free throw at the end of the third quarter to pull the Bulldogs within a point at 36-35. After Matanzas freshman Jezrahiah McCoy scored on a driving layup, Royal knocked down a 3-pointer to tie the score at 38-38.
The teams battled battled back and fourth until FPC pulled away in the final two
minutes. The difference came at the free throw line.
The Bulldogs hit 25 of 33 foul shots, including 11 of 14 in the fourth quarter. Hampton was a perfect 6 for 6 from the line in the game. The Pirates, meanwhile, struggled from the line, hitting 9 of 23 free throws. They were 4 of 10 in the fourth quarter.
Six-foot-8 junior center Alex Davis led Matanzas with a game-high 25 points. Davis was playing in just his fourth game of the season and his second game since Nov. 20. He missed most of the second half after getting called for his fourth foul. He and McCoy (11 points) both eventually fouled out. LaDarian Baker and Nate Perry (10 points) each finished with four fouls.
“We lost a lot of momentum when we had four out of five starters (leave the floor) with
four fouls,” Matanzas coach Eric Guerrero said. “That kind of hurt us little bit and (FPC) took advantage of every opportunity. By the time, they were able to get back in and get warmed, (FPC) already had too much momentum.”
R.J. Watson added 12 points for the Bulldogs and also went 6 of 6 from the free throw line.
“Give their coach credit,” FPC coach Greg Shirley said.
“They came out in something that we hadn’t seen. We made some adjustments at halftime.”
FPC also battled with foul trouble. Watson, Siah Sanders and Roman Caliendo all fouled out.
“All three of our bigs fouled out, but other guys stepped up,” Shirley said. “I’m so very proud of them. We kept making stops, even in the first half when we were really struggling to score. We adjusted and hit some big shots and made all of our free throws.”
Bulldogs’ girls soccer team honors seniors, then wins by mercy rule
FPC trounced Mainland 8-0 and then defeated Matanzas 4-1.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
a sophomoredominated team, honored their two seniors — co-cap-
tain Erin Hughes and forward Nichole Dickinson — before the game. Hughes went on to score the first goal of the game, her 10th of the season. She came into the contest leading the team in goals scored.
FPC went on to defeat Menendez 6-0 on Dec. 16 and Matanzas 4-1 on Dec. 17 to improve to 9-4-1. The Bulldogs host Spruce Creek at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20 in their final game before spring break.
Matanzas, which fell to 6-4, hosts Crescent City at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19.
FPC’s Devin Mahler looks for an open teammate. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Matanzas’ Alex Davis (0) and FPC’s Roman Caliendo (21) battle under the boards as a player’s shot goes in.
FPC’s R.J. Watson (0) shoots over Nate Perry. Courtesy photos by Keishia McLendon
FPC’s Anthony Hampton drives hangs in the air for a layup.
Matanzas’ Jamel Guerrero looks to pass. Photo by Brent Woronoff
The Flagler Palm Coast girls soccer team celebrated senior night with a 8-0 mercy-rule victory against Mainland on Friday, Dec. 13, at Sal Campanella Stadium. The Bulldogs,
FPC’s Nichole Dickinson, with family, is honored on FPC girls soccer senior night. Photos by Brent Woronoff Erin Hughes honored on FPC girls soccer senior night.
FPC’s Taci Cook controls the ball against Mainland.
Hat trick gives Sandcrabs a ‘claws up’ over Hawks
Seabreeze striker Olivia Chase scored three goals in the 4-1 win against Spruce Creek on Dec. 16.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Seabreeze girls soccer team beat rival Spruce Creek 4-1 on the road Monday, Dec. 16. The win put a halt to the Sandcrabs’ two-game losing streak, bringing their record to 3-53. Spruce Creek fell to 8-4-1.
Within the first few minutes of the kickoff, forward Olivia Chase was fouled inside the penalty box by Creek goalkeeper Payton Drexler which resulted in a penalty kick and the Sandcrabs’ first goal. Ten minutes later, Annabel Thistle drove the ball into the back of the net. The score was 2-0 at halftime when Seabreeze head coach Eli Freidus talked to his team.
“Top to bottom, good first half,” Freidus said. “You guys know what to do. After 20 minutes, it doesn’t change — they get a goal, it’s game on; we get a goal, it’s game over. I want you guys to win so bad, more than you do, probably.”
Chase started the second half with another goal. Spruce Creek answered to make the score 3-1.
With 49 seconds left, Chase scored again to complete the hat trick.
Chase is the team’s top scorer with eight goals and three assists. Thistle has four goals and three assists. Last season, the pair racked up a com-
bined 28 goals — 17 for Chase and 11 for Thistle. They were key to taking Seabreeze to the Region 2-5A final where they lost 1-0 to Horizon. Freidus said Spruce Creek did not have a response for his attackers.
“Creek is a big rivalry for us,” Freidus said. “They have beaten a lot of good teams and I know they want to beat us pretty bad. They just didn’t have an answer for our players up top and our midfield was finding them.”
Last school year, eight starters graduated, leaving Seabreeze to battle a tough schedule this season with eight freshmen with a few of the nine seniors out with injuries. They have played five teams ranked in Florida High School Athletic Association’s top 75 — Edgewood, Nease, Lake Mary, Oviedo and Spruce Creek. The second match of the season was a 2-0 loss against 16th-ranked Lake Mary.
Freshman Ava Arnold started at midfield against Spruce Creek, sharing time with fellow freshman Gabby Dioquino. Freidus also played freshman Hunter Byers, who he said is having an exceptional season playing in the outside back position.
“Throughout the year, I could name all of them as having shown improvement,” Freidus said. “This is really the first time for all these girls being the main players. Liv and Annabelle have been good for several years. For our defense, Sophie Fabulich has been really good back there and Kayla Fredericks has been strong.”
Freidus said his team will be preparing for their next game against New Smyrna Beach on Thursday, Dec. 19. Seabreeze will face Skya Hoth who has scored 16 goals and has had 11 assists this season for the Barracudas (8-3-1).
“Now we’re into our local phase,” Freidus said. “I’ve got two goals. I want to be the best team locally and that means winning the Five Star (Conference) and I want to make a run into the postseason. I think our schedule helps us. We see teams that play fast all the time. It helps us play fast.”
After the game, Freidus told his players to celebrate the win then think about what they did well and what they need to work on.
“Good stuff,” Freidus said. “We needed the win, we got the win. They had a good performance.”
Seabreeze player Cora Clayton (13) kicks the ball away from Spruce Creek’s Brynna Buckler (4).
Seabreeze player Gabrielle Dioquino (18) fends off Spruce Creek’s Jade Erickson (left).
Seabreeze’a Annabel Thistle (right) kicks the ball back toward a teammate
Seabreeze player Anna Buckmaster passes the ball.
Olivia Chase watches after she heads the ball in between Spruce Creek players Kate Montgomery (left) and Oceana Brooks (23).
SIDELINES
Perez coaches Sandcrabs hours after surgery
Seabreeze boys soccer coach Alex Perez underwent knee replacement surgery on Thursday, Dec. 12. That evening he coached the Sandcrabs from a truck in a corner between fields at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex.
Perez was in pain. He couldn’t walk. He went over the game plans ahead of time with his players and assistant coaches with the intention of missing a few games and practices. He changed his mind. He convinced his son, Franco, to drive him to the sports complex.
“I just decided to go out
there. I didn’t want to let the team down,” Perez said. “I asked Franco to drive me down there. (During the game) I was screaming and yelling the best I can so they could hear me. I was on the phone with my assistant coaches sometimes, saying we should do this, we should do that. At halftime, the players came to me.”
Seabreeze defeated University 5-1. After the game, the players ran to Franco’s truck and celebrated with their coach.
“Not many of the parents knew I was there,” he said. “They were wondering why all the players ran to the corner.”
After losing six straight games, the Sandcrabs have
won three in a row to improve to 5-6 heading into a Dec. 16 game at Deltona. Last year, Seabreeze won just four games. Perez took over the team this season.
Perez missed the 4-1 win at Atlantic on Dec. 13. He was in too much pain to make the trip, but he planned to ride with his assistants to the Deltona game and attend practice on Dec. 17 to prepare for the Dec. 19 contest at Spruce Creek.
“I’m trying not to miss anything,” he said. “I need (the players) as much as they need me, and I can’t stay in bed; I’m a very active person. I can survive the pain. The players give me the energy to keep moving forward.”
Perez, 47, said he suffered knee injuries in 2011 and 2017 while playing soccer and he has been in pain ever since.
“The cortisone shots weren’t working anymore,” he said. “The doctor looked at my MRI and thought I was in a motorcycle accident. My wife, who is a nurse, said I can either have surgery at the end of the year or end up in a wheel chair. I decided to have the surgery.”
Former Matanzas kicker Landon Grover commits to B-CU
Former Matanzas High School kicker Landon Grover has
announced he is transferring to Bethune-Cookman University. As a freshman at Division II Kentucky State this season, Grover was good on five of seven field goal attempts with a long of 37 yards. He also converted 20 of 24 extrapoint kicks, hitting 17 in a row before his first miss. As a punter, he landed 10 punts inside the 20. Grover announced on “X” in November that he was entering the transfer portal. He will join former Matanzas teammate Cole Hash at B-CU. The Wildcats have been recruiting more local players. Mainland seniors Kwasie Kwaku and Phillips Moore signed with B-CU on Dec. 4.
