Palm Coast Observer 6-22-23

Cousins Raniya Harris and Miangel Harris perform a skit titled “Why Juneteenth?” to explain the historical and present-day relevance of the celebration. It was the teenagers’ first time on stage.

Photo by Christine Rodenbaugh

CITY WATCH

Woman challenges city on response to dog attack

A Palm Coast woman is alleging that Animal Control acted improperly when investigating a dog attack that killed her Chihuahua mix.

The city is looking into the allegations, but has denied the woman’s assertion that an Animal Control officer told her not to speak with neighbors about the case.

“We’re in the investigative stage of learning more about how protocols were utilized,” City Manager Denise Bevan said. “We also have another side of the story that we want to be diligent in on how our staff approaches these matters.”

Budget Procurement Office wins award

The Palm Coast Financial Services Department’s Budget Procurement Office has received the Excellence in Public Procurement Award from the Florida Association of Budget Procurement Officials.

The award recognizes Florida agencies that meet or exceed benchmarks in public procurement, according to a press release from the city. This is the fifth year in a row the city’s Budget Procurement Office has received this award, Financial Services Director Helena Alves said.

“Being just one of 24 agencies from across the state to be recognized for this level of service is exceptional,” she said, “and I am very proud of our team for their dedication and commitment to the city of Palm Coast.”

Carole Brasfield, 71, was walking her dog, Rookie, on June 3 when a pit bull or bulldog mix named Blu came charging out of the woods, knocking her to the ground before latching on to Rookie. Blu, who had a documented bite history, weighed 94 pounds as of his July 2022 rabies vaccination certificate.

Brasfield suffered severe bruising on her right side and a laceration on her wrist as she and Blu’s owner, 70-year-old Deborah Sefcik, tried to rescue Rookie.

“I was dazed and in extreme pain,” Brasfield wrote in her statement to Animal Control. “I tried getting up, but he had Rookie in his mouth, shaking him.”

Some people in an SUV stopped to try to help as Brasfield tried to wrestle the pit bull off of her dog.

“By then, [Rookie] was dead,” she wrote.

Brasfield and her husband, Randy, told the Observer they objected to how Animal Control Officer Shelley Burton handled the investigation.

At a City Council business meeting on June 20, Brasfield recounted the attack to the council.

She said Burton had argued with her about the attack and told her she shouldn’t discuss the attack with her neighbors because the neighbors “were lying.”

“This dog could have killed a child,” Brasfield said to the council.

“Where is the accountability of the Palm Coast city employees?”

Brittany Kershaw, Palm Coast director of Communications and Marketing, said that accusation was

false.

Animal Control policy is actually to encourage residents to speak to their neighbors, Kershaw said, to bring forth more witness reports.

Animal Control allowed Sefcik to keep Blu at home for quarantine from June 3 to June 14 as officers completed their investigation.

Kershaw wrote in an email to the Observer that it is normal procedure to let an animal quarantine at home if the home is properly fenced or enclosed and the animal is up to date on its shots and meets other qualifications.

Ultimately, Blu was designated a “dangerous dog,” and Sefcik had him euthanized on June 14, 11 days after the attack, according to city documents.

Sefcik wrote in her statement to Animal Control that she had been walking Blu on a leash with a muzzle, but Blu had noticed a rabbit and bolted into the woods, ripping the leash from her hands, before noticing and attacking the Chihuahua.

Brasfield said Blu was not muzzled during the attack.

“I was up close and personal,” Brasfield told the Observer. “There was no leash or muzzle.”

Randy Brasfield told the Observer if Blu were muzzled, he shouldn’t have been able to grab Rookie. Blu was known to cause trouble for people in the neighborhood, he said.

This was not the first time Blu was investigated by Palm Coast’s Animal

Control.

A year ago, Blu attacked a corgi, JoJo, that lives in the neighborhood and is owned by the Fairbanks family.

The same animal control officer, Burton, investigated the 2022 attack.

The corgi did not suffer any dog bites or broken bones, according to an Animal Control report.

But when Burton followed up with the Fairbanks family after the June 3 attack, veterinary records showed that JoJo had suffered swelling and edema that required multiple vet visits to fix, the report said.

At the end of the City Council meeting, Vice Mayor Ed Danko said he was concerned about Animal Control’s actions.

“I really want an answer as to why an Animal Control officer thinks it’s appropriate to tell a victim like that — who’s obviously going through a lot of emotional distress — to not talk to her neighbors,” he said.

“This is no way to treat one of our citizens,” he added. “It just isn’t.”

Kershaw said that city policy is to look into all complaints against staff, though not all turn into formal investigations. There is no formal investigation into Burton yet for this incident, she said, nor are there any other complaints or investigations in Burton’s file.

“Our Animal Control officers are always very professional and care very much for our residents,” Kershaw said. “Animal Control officers are never trying to be insensitive.”

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City

to receive almost $55

million from state Palm Coast will receive $54.55 million in state appropriations this year.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the state’s $116.5 billion budget on June 15, approving multiple allocations for Palm Coast and vetoing one:

A $5 million allocation to build a new Fire Station 22.

A $5 million allocation for a different fire station, Station 26, survived the governor’s veto pen.

The major areas of state investment, according to a city government news release, include:

„ Economic Expansion: $25 million to expand transportation access to land within Palm Coast’s boundaries west of the railroad tracks near Matanzas Woods Parkway, including roads, bridges and utilities.

„ Transportation Improvements: $23.3 million for projects across the city, including $18.3 million for the second phase of the Old Kings Road North Widening Project. The expansion to four lanes began in 2009 and is Palm Coast’s highest-ranked transportation project. The first phase ended in 2021. Another $4.5 million will support safety improvements on Belle Terre Parkway, while $500,000 will fund a traffic study of the Old Kings Road South corridor.

„ Public Safety Enhancements: $5 million to fund the construction of a new Fire Station 26 in the Seminole Woods area.

„ Flood Protection Upgrades: $1.25 million to replace a flood control structure south of Belle Terre Parkway and Whiteview Parkway with a new, more advanced weir that meets upgraded specifications.

Photo by Sierra Williams Randy and Carole Brasfield hold the cremated remains of their dog Rookie, a chihuahua mix that was killed by a pit bull mix on June 3.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Planning our parks

The county and city will use survey data to create a unified master plan for parks and recreation.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Residents’ top requests for additional park and recreation facilities are more access to the water and more kayak launches. They also want more restrooms.

Locals’ requests and complaints about recreation facilities were the topic of a recent survey of Flagler County and Palm Coast residents by the management consulting firm BerryDunn, which presented the results to the Palm Coast City Council at the council’s June 20 meeting.

Palm Coast is working with Flagler County to design a comprehensive, unified Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the entire county.

Art Thatcher, a manager with BerryDunn, presented the survey data to the City Council. (BerryDunn was expected to present to the County Commission on June 19, but that presentation has been rescheduled to July.)

“This is the first project that I’ve done where the county and the city have collaborated together to do a joint master plan,” Thatcher said. “It’s very innovative on your part.”

TOP REQUESTS

The outreach and survey program received more than 2,600 responses through mailed and online surveys, in-person meetings and a social media opinion board staff created.

On the actual surveys, Thatcher said, the firm received a good distribution of new and longer-term

“By combining the two plans, it provides the opportunity for the two government entities to work together to … meet citizen demand.”

ART THATCHER, BerryDunn

residents.

According to the combined results from both the online and mailed surveys, 57% of Flagler County residents said they frequently use the nature and jogging trails; another 54% frequently use the restrooms at the facilities.

The top requests for more park and recreation facilities were for access to the water and kayak launches:

Those two items each had 11% of the responses.

Beaches get plenty of use: 25% of mailed survey and 24% of online survey respondents said they use the beach at least once a week; 22% of mailed survey and 31% of online survey respondents said they use the parks at least once a week.

Interpreting some of the data requires context, Thatcher said.

On the social media opinion board, for example, residents could say what their budget priorities were. Of 181 participants on the board, 43% rated upgrades to the Palm Coast Aquatics Center as their main priority.

But Thatcher said most of the people who placed the aquatics center as their priority were likely the people who use the center the most.

A mapping analysis of park locations relative to the population showed that 86% of Palm Coast and Flagler County residents are within easy distance of local parks.

The data also told the council and staff where residents want to see improvement.

Residents gave all of the county’s parks and open spaces, walkways and trails, nature preserves and park amenities high “importance ratings,” but lower “needs met” ratings.

“When we see that the ‘needs met’ is greater than the ‘importance,’ we know that the community feels like those things are being well done,” Thatcher told the Observer . “It’s when it’s the other way [that it’s an issue.]”

Thatcher told the Observer that most residents don’t know which facilities belong to the county or the city.

“They just know they live here, and they go and they go partici -

pate,” he said. “By combining the two plans, it provides the opportunity for the two government entities to work together to … meet citizen demand.

THE PROCESS Thatcher said the team used a “mixed-method” approach of inperson meetings and social media outreach to contact as many residents as possible.

The team received more than 1,000 responses from the online survey and more than 1,500 responses from the mailed survey, he said.

“We use multiple [data] points so that we can really engage the community,” Thatcher said.

Council member Theresa Carli Pontieri said she was concerned about whether the responses were a fair reflection of the city’s population or just the loudest voices speaking out.

She noted that even though 1,500 people returned the mail-in surveys, Palm Coast is a city of almost 95,000 people.

“I’m concerned we’re making big decisions on select groups who have responded,” she said.

Thatcher said that surveys were mailed to a random sample of local addresses and sent proportionately based on population in various areas.

If an area of Flagler County only represented 35% of the population, about 35% of the surveys went to addresses in that area.

PRIORITIZING PROJECTS

One of the takeaways from the survey, Thatcher said, is that residents want the city and county to take care of the existing facilities, even as population growth demands expansion as well.

In a review of the trails and signage, staff noted smaller issues that could be fixed to make information easier for residents to access: replacing aging signs and adding more informational and directional signs, for example.

An analysis of park components also listed specific areas that received low ratings, so staff can prioritize problems to address.

The trailhead at the Palm Coast Community Center and Park, for example, was listed as having no

signage or access to a restroom or drinking fountain.

Several parks on the county side were marked as having no water access, or have problems like rough or cracked surfaces, according to the analysis.

Palm Coast Parks and Recreation Director James Hirst told the Observer some of the items that rated lower on the surveys were already on his department’s radar. The department can fix smaller items like broken QR codes on trail signs or replace dilapidated picnic tables relatively easily, he said.

Other, larger projects take longer, he said. In the meantime, the data gives staff a good inventory of maintenance needs.

“We will look towards maybe making an asset maintenance plan, things like that that we haven’t had in the past,” Hirst said.

Hirst said he was excited to see residents’ high interest in an aquatics center and additional water access.

“Anything new and expanding or even renovating and renewing always makes us excited,” he said. “We’re always excited to create something new for everyone.”

FORMING A PLAN Thatcher said the staff will use the new data to develop goals and, eventually, draft a final master plan.

“The master plan really is kind of a 10,000-foot view of operations,” Thatcher said.

“We’re always excited to create something new for everyone.”

JAMES HIRST

Palm Coast Parks and Recreation director

4,500 mailed surveys sent out in a random sample

1,556 mailed survey responses 1,085 online survey respondents

57% of respondents say they frequently use the nature trails

Beaches

52% of respondents say they frequently use the boardwalk and pier Parks

54% of respondents say they frequently use the facility restrooms

25% of mailed survey and 24% of online survey respondents said they use the beach at least once a week.

22% of mailed survey and 31% of online survey respondents said they use the parks at least once a week.

The data from the surveys and analysis will also give staff a better idea of where to site new parks as the area grows, and help them calculate the costs of bringing some of the lower-scoring facilities or parks up to better standard, he told the Observer

Hirst said that the next meeting will help show, statistically, where recreation access is lacking.

Working with the county will help fill gaps in park access for residents, too, he said.

“Now that we have that relationship with the county we can kind of balance out some things,” Hirst said.

Thatcher said the next presentation on the master plan’s identified goals and objectives will be on Aug. 7 and 8, to the County Commission and City Council, respectively.

The draft of the final plan will be presented in early September.

Photo by Sierra Williams

Blake Well takes a swim at the Palm Coast Aquatics Center. The City Council heard a presentation on June 20 about how residents in Flagler County use park and recreation facilities.

The signage at city and county trails need to be updated and made uniform, according to an assessment of the trails.

Among the most sought-after amenities at city and county parks are restrooms, according to survey data.

District: Complaint against Peacock credible Guardian

Paul Peacock was not retained as Wadsworth’s principal after attorney David Delaney completed his investigation.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

A complaint filed against Wadsworth Elementary School Principal Paul Peacock by the school district’s own HR chief was credible, an outside attorney has found.

The Flagler County School District released a report by Gainesville-area attorney David Delaney on June 20. The report was the result of Delaney’s investigation of Peacock.

Peacock, who had two years left in the Deferred Retirement Option Program, was informed on June 8 that his contract will not be renewed next year.

Robert Ouellette, the district’s Chief Human Resources Officer, had started to investigate six employee complaints filed against Peacock. But Ouellette’s investigation was handed over to Delaney after Peacock wrote a letter of complaint against Ouellette.

Delaney wrote that the six allegations by Wadsworth teachers and staff members “did not result in reasonable cause to believe that Mr. Peacock violated School Board policy, the Florida Administrative Code or Florida statutes.

“This conclusion is based on interviews with the witnesses and documents reviewed,” he continued. “Most of the allegations in this matter came down to ‘she said versus he said’ disputes. Contemporaneous documentation to

convincingly resolve these disputes was not available.

… Furthermore, many of the issues raised by complainants simply do not rise to the level of any sort of violation.”

However, Delaney also investigated Ouellette’s complaint against Peacock, which led to a letter of reprimand.

In his complaint, dated March 6, Ouellette wrote that Peacock’s “false and unfounded” allegations against him prevented the completion of “multiple legally sufficient complaints.”

DeLaney wrote that Ouellette’s complaint “is meticulously documented and supported by a great deal of evidence.”

Delaney’s report said Peacock’s letter of complaint on Oct. 18, 2022, claimed that Ouellette was engaged in “retaliation and harassment” due to Peacock’s reporting of multiple violations.

Delaney wrote that Peacock’s letter “is full of serious allegations but lacks enough evidence to be persuasive.”

The attorney concluded that Ouellette was carrying out his duties when he came to Wadsworth to investigate one of the employees’ complaints, “which means he was not harassing or retaliating against Mr. Peacock,” the attorney wrote.

In the report’s conclusion, Delaney wrote, “There is reasonable cause to believe that Mr. Peacock intended to thwart the ability of Mr. Ouellette in carrying out his legitimate job duties.”

In an interview with the Observer , Interim Superintendent LaShakia Moore said Peacock was not retained because of a combination of things, “but more importantly, what characteristics do we see or want or desire in the leaders of Flagler schools? It really goes back to, does Mr.

Three School

Peacock display the characteristics that we want in a leader of Flagler schools?”

Moore added that “we do appreciate the years that Mr. Peacock has provided and served the district of Flagler Schools, and we do wish him the best in his next chapter.”

She said the next principal at Wadsworth will come from within the district, with the position only being posted internally.

“I am very confident that with the leadership teams that we have across our district, that we will get a qualified candidate from our internal pool,” Moore said. “We’re looking for a candidate that is going to come in and that can make Wadsworth (their) home for the next few years.”

Peacock, who was reassigned a year ago to Wadsworth from his position as Flagler Schools’ chief operations officer, had filed a grievance against the district and Superintendent Cathy Mittelstadt last December.

Mittelstadt’s contract, which ends on June 30, was not renewed by the School Board in April. Peacock and Board member Sally Hunt maneuvered to try to hasten the vote on Mittelstadt’s contract in February, text messages showed.

campus.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

After months of holding workshop discussions about adopting a school guardian program, the Flagler County School Board voted down a resolution to put the program into effect.

The motion that would put concealed weapons in the hands of school staff members failed 3-2 at the board’s meeting on June 20.

Board members Sally Hunt, Colleen Conklin and Cheryl Massaro all said the school district was not ready yet for the program in voting against the resolution.

Hunt said she is in favor of a guardian program in some form but was not comfortable with the concealed carry option “where our staff, our parents and our students walk around campus not knowing who has a deadly weapon with them.”

“I find that very unsettling,” she said. “I think a lot of people find that very unsettling.”

Massaro and Conklin said they were concerned about the possibility of guardians having their guns stolen from them.

Will Furry and Christy Chong supported the resolution, which would have allowed the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office to apply for a grant to help offset the cost of training the guardians.

Currently, School Resource Deputies, supplied by the FCSO, carry weapons on school campuses. The guardians would also carry a weap-

on with the sole purpose of thwarting an active assailant. They would have no other law enforcement authority.

A school guardian would serve as a force multiplier for extra security, according to the resolution. Guardians would be volunteers who are full-time district employees. They would undergo 144 hours of training provided by the FSCO, a psychological evaluation and drug testing.

The resolution would direct the district’s superintendent to draft policies and procedures for the program. But the board does not expect to have a new permanent superintendent in place until Jan. 1, 2024.

Furry said the concealed carry model acts as a deterrent to would-be assailants.

“Our campuses are very large. It takes time to respond to a situation like this, and every second counts,” he said. “I can’t think of why we wouldn’t want extra support for our SRDs.”

But Conklin said she felt uncomfortable adopting a resolution without having

policies in place. She was also uneasy about having staff members without prior law enforcement experience carrying weapons on school campuses. She said she would prefer one of the other, costlier, guardian options of adding more SRDs or hiring private armed security.

Board Chair Massaro said that when Suwannee County School representatives presented their concealedweapon guardian model to the board, it wasn’t what she expected.

“In my mind, we were only going to find ex-military people that have awareness of guns, and they were going to be our guardians. That is not the case in this model,” she said.

She said 60% of Suwannee’s guardians are women. Suwannee’s program took time to get buy-in from everybody, Massaro said.

“That’s the only way this kind of program actually does work,” Massaro added. “I agree with Ms. Hunt, we’re not necessarily there yet.”

BOARD TO LOOK AT FYO STRUCTURE

In old business at the June 6 School Board meeting, Will Furry made a motion to hire a corporate tax attorney to look into the structure of the district’s association with the Flagler Youth Orchestra.

The district is auditing a bank account set up 18 years ago for the FYO by the district superintendent with the district’s Employment Identification Number. Current district staff had no knowledge of the account until recently.

But Furry is also concerned with how the FYO

is set up and whether it meets corporate tax law.

“I need to know, is it a legal structure?” he said.

Board Attorney Kristy Gavin said tax law wouldn’t apply since the school district is a tax-exempt organization.

She said she could look into hiring an independent school board attorney to look into the FYO’s structure.

Furry agreed to change his motion and the board voted 5-0 to have Gavin look into hiring an outside attorney.

Board members were uneasy with school employees carrying concealed weapons on

Photo by Brent Woronoff Flagler Schools Chief Human Resources Officer Robert Ouellette.

Search for new Flagler superintendent to start

The School Board is scheduled to approve a new superintendent’s contract on Nov. 21.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The search for a new Flagler Schools superintendent will begin with an online survey next month and end in November with the School Board’s selection.

If the timeline proceeds as designed, the superintendent will begin his or her duties on New Year’s Day, 2024.

Andrea Messina, Bill Vogel and John Reichart, of the Florida School Board Association, presented Flagler School Board members with the timeline at a June 20 workshop.

The board had signed a contract with the FSBA to aid in the search. Superintendent Cathy Mittelstadt’s contract runs out on June 30. The June 20 evening meeting was her last appearance on the board’s dais.

Former Assistant Superintendent LaShakia Moore will serve as the interim superintendent until a new superintendent takes over.

Because of scheduling conflicts, the board agreed to move its workshop and board meeting from July 25 to July 18. At the workshop, board members will finalize the questions that will appear in an online survey, which will give community members an opportunity to share what characteristics they would like to see in the next super-

Rates headed up at Belle Terre Swim & Racquet Club

intendent.

The board will also identify what advertising venues it would like to use to post the position. The survey will be the first post on a superintendent’s portal that will be on the district’s website, Flaglerschools.com.

The online survey is scheduled to be live on the website from July 28 to Aug. 11. A possible question on the survey would ask if the superintendent would have to be an educator.

“Not everyone believes that,” said Messina, the FSBA’s chief executive officer, noting that some districts have hired superintendents with military or business backgrounds.

At the Aug. 15 workshop, the board will discuss the survey results, select members of a Citizens Advisory Committee and finalize the advertisement for the position.

The Citizens Advisory Committee will meet twice in September, handing in its recommendations on Sept. 29.

At its Oct. 3 workshop, the board will choose semifinalists. On Oct. 17, the board members will select finalists, and they will conduct interviews on Oct. 30.

On Nov. 7, the board will choose a new superintendent and begin contract negotiations. The board will approve the new superintendent’s contract on Nov. 21.

As soon as applications come in, the FSBA will review them, Vogel said.

With so many other districts looking for a new superintendent, the board will probably have to pay a substantially higher salary than it paid Mittelstadt three years ago, Messina said.

Monthly and annual membership rates would increase, with a $50 annual administrative fee added for everybody.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The School Board raised membership rates at the Belle Terre Swim & Racquet Club late last year. But with a push to increase revenue and convince the board to keep the facility open to the public, rates are likely going up again. The board is expected to vote on new rates at next

BRIEFS

VCS recognizes heroic staff member, students

Three Beachside Elementary students and one staff member who helped save a student from choking received Superintendent Heroism Awards at a School Board meeting on Tuesday, June 13.

Ann Strader, an office specialist and Title 1 paraprofessional, has lunch duty in the cafeteria. During one of her shifts before the end of school, third graders Chauncey Hankerson, Dominic Checchi and Cai Allen told her that another student was in trouble.

“They said, ‘She’s choking!’” Strader said at the board meeting. “... So I ran over to the student.”

Strader asked the girl if she was choking, and the girl responded with a nod, holding her hand around her throat, Strader said.

month’s business meeting.

Adult monthly rates would increase from $47 to $55. Annual membership was slated to remain at $300, but board member Will Furry, saying the proposed rates were “way too low,” proposed raising it to $420, which averages to $35 a month.

Last month, Furry and board member Sally Hunt voted against keeping the facility open to members. But now the board is committed to helping the club break even or at least see it lose less than $80,000 a year, which is the projected cost of closing the gym and keeping the pool open for student use and group rentals.

In addition, the club will

charge a $50 annual administrative fee for all adult members, including those who use the facility through their insurance plans.

Currently, there are 168 paying members, Joshua Walker, the district’s coordinator of community services, told the board at its June 20 workshop.

But there are also about 800 insurance plan members on the rolls.

“This is the problem. If we’re going to keep it going, we can’t give it away anymore,” Furry said.

The club is holding an open house Saturday, June 24, and Sunday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., to try to sell memberships.

The event will include a cookout from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day.

The district’s proposed timeline will give the facility a year to turn itself around, with the club’s revenue and expenses to be presented to the board at the July 16, 2024 workshop.

The board would again vote on continuing the membership model or moving to a student-focused model at the Aug. 20, 2024 meeting. If the board votes to end memberships, the deadline to inform the insurance companies would be Sept. 1, 2024, and the potential last day of membership operations would be Dec. 31, 2024.

Strader performed the Heimlich maneuver, dislodging a piece of food from the girl’s throat.

Beachside Elementary Principal Lynn Bruner told the district about Strader’s lifesaving act, and Strader and the three students

received the Superintendent Heroism Award, presented by VCS Superintendent Carmen Balgobin.

On its Facebook page, VCS commended Strader and the students.

“Thank you for paying attention and making good

choices that saved another student’s life,” the district stated in a post.

The three boys who alerted Strader were also invited to the board meeting to be recognized. “They did the right thing,” Bruner said.

Courtesy photo

Back row: Volusia County School Board member Carl Persis, Beachside Elementary Principal Lynn Bruner, board member Anita Burnette, Superintendent Carmen Balgobin, Beachside Elementary Office Specialist Ann Strader, Board Chair Jamie Haynes and board members Jessie Thompson and Ruben Colon. Front row: Third graders Chauncey Hankerson, Dominic Checchi and Cai Allen.

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MAY 13

EVIDENCE OF SHENANIGANS

5:32 p.m. — 700 block of Lindenwood Circle, Ormond Beach Vandalism. An Ormond Beach resident called police after she found a chunk of cement in her driveway — and a dent in her garage door.

The woman told police that she noticed the cement chunk and the dent around noon and later left to go shopping, according to a police report.

When she returned home, she spotted a rock in her driveway and yet another dent in her garage door.

She suspected the culprit was one of the neighborhood kids, but didn’t have any more information.

She told police she wanted the incident documented for insurance purposes and in case other neighbors experienced something similar.

MAY 16

UNWANTED REDECORATING

9:29 a.m. — 500 block of Collins Street, Ormond Beach Larceny. A landlord who recently evicted tenants arrived at her property to find it vandalized.

The woman told police that she had been checking the home when she noticed the damage, according to a police report.

An officer noted that several walls of the home had been spray-painted with explicit and name-calling language and drawings directed toward the landlord. Multiple light fixtures and electrical wall fixtures were

damaged or removed, and there were holes throughout the home.

The officer noted in his report that a thief took several mounted air conditioning units, causing damage estimated to total over $1,000.

The landlord suspected that her previous tenants were the culprits and wanted to press charges if they didn’t repair all of the damage and return the missing property.

JUNE 2

TOILET TROUBLE

10:40 a.m.

— 100 block of Jungle Hut Road, Palm Coast Criminal mischief.

The bathrooms in Jungle Hut Park are down a toilet after someone destroyed one in the men’s restroom.

A Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to the scene after a county employee called about the shattered toilet, according to an incident report.

The toilet “appeared to have been hit with a sledge hammer,” the report said.

The deputy found that the only seated toilet in the men’s restroom was shattered to the point that the toilet’s plumbing was visible.

The deputy looked for fire damage such as burn markings, but did not see anything to indicate a firework had been used.

County employees estimated the damage at $500.

The women’s restroom was undamaged, the report said.

JUNE 6

ACCIDENTAL SKYLIGHT

6:26 p.m. — First block of Bunker Hill Drive, Palm Coast Weapons complaint. A Palm Coast man called law enforcement on himself after

Members:

he accidentally shot a hole in his roof.

The man was in his room cleaning his black, multicaliber rifle when the shooting happened, according to an incident report. He told an arriving Sheriff’s Office deputy that he’d believed the chamber was clear, but when he released the charging handle, the gun fired.

He called law enforcement because he did not know what to do, the report said.

The bullet passed through the man’s ceiling fan and roof. No one was injured.

JUNE 11

PEDALS NEEDED

8:41 p.m. — Intersection of Ridgewood Avenue and Aragon Street, Ormond Beach Driving while license revoked. A 55-year-old Ormond Beach man was arrested after deputies saw him driving a motor scooter without registration plates.

The man and his wife were both driving scooters southbound on Ridgewood Avenue when a deputy pulled them over, according to a police report.

The man said that the scooters were actually “electric bicycles” that didn’t require registration, but that the couple had removed the pedals because the bikes were hard to ride with the pedals attached.

The deputy told them that, based on state statutes, the couple could not modify the e-bikes without the bikes being reclassified as motor scooters.

When the deputy asked for their driver’s licenses, both of them admitted their licenses were suspended. Because the man was a habitual traffic offender, the deputy took him to jail. His wife received a verbal warning.

Former Councilman Victor Barbosa files for Flagler County Commission Matanzas teen competent to stand trial

“I’m

JONATHAN SIMMONS MANAGING EDITOR

Former Palm Coast City Councilman

Victor Barbosa, who stepped down from the council partway through his term, has filed to run for the District 5 Flagler County Commission seat.

“All these people that are in office keep on not listening to the community and voting against what they want,” he told the Observer. “I think my track record speaks for itself; I always vote for what the people want.”

Barbosa had posted publicly on his Facebook page on June 13, “Although I don’t miss the news media. I miss helping our great community so much. Thinking of running for office 2024. I need your help to make this decision. Should I run?” A number of replies urged him to do so.

Barbosa, a Republican, is the owner of the Man Cave barber shop on Palm Harbor Village Way.

He had resigned from the City Council in March 2022, days after he was accused of shoplifting at Walmart by skip-scanning a shirt at a self-checkout counter, but he told the Observer that his resignation “had nothing to do with that incident.”

Barbosa had maintained his innocence and was never charged with a crime, and Walmart ultimately canceled the trespass order it had initially filed against him.

“I spent $350 that day and one item didn’t ring up,” he said. “I’m not a cashier, and if you Google it, it happens way too often.” Barbosa had returned to the store after the trespass order was canceled, and created a Facebook Live video of himself buying a U.S. flag there.

The only other person who has filed to run for the District 5 County Commission seat is Ed Danko, Palm Coast’s vice mayor. Danko, like Barbosa, had joined the City Council in 2020 and is also running for the County Commission seat as a Republican.

Barbosa, asked about the timing of his filing to run — just days after Danko filed — said he had filed to run for the seat, rather than against Danko.

Former County Commissioner George Hanns, who held the seat for 24 years until he lost to current County Commissioner Donald O’Brien, has announced his intention to run for the commission seat, but has not yet filed. O’Brien is not running for reelection; he is instead running for Florida House District 19.

Barbosa said he is running to help hold government accountable and attract jobs.

“As you have seen the last couple of years, all government has been doing is raising taxes — something goes wrong, they charge the taxpayers, and no one is accountable for the mistakes,” he said in an email to the Observer.

He said he wanted to help draw more businesses to the area, “so we can create more jobs that will create more tax revenue, so it would help taxes to stop going up.”

“The community is well aware of who I am and knows I have always put their wants and needs before mine,” he said. He said people can reach him at 386-569-8748. “I will keep voting [for] what they want.

This isn’t only my county; this is our county,” he said.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A teenager who attacked his Matanzas High School paraprofessional in February is competent to stand trial, according to a circuit judge.

Brendan Depa, 17, appeared in court for a competency hearing before Circuit Judge Terence Perkins the afternoon of June 16. Two psychologists gave opposing opinions on whether Depa is competent to stand trial.

Perkins said competency in this context depends on whether Depa’s autism diagnosis renders him incompetent to proceed.

“This was one of those circumstances where actually hearing from the doctors and the experts was a great assistance,” Perkins said.

Depa has been charged with aggravated battery on an education employee for attacking his paraprofessional at MHS on Feb. 21. The 17-year-old faces up to 30 years in prison if he is found guilty.

He was ordered to undergo a mental evaluation at a pretrial hearing in March. In a second pretrial hearing on May 10, Depa’s lawyer, Kurt Teifke, a defense attorney with 20 years of experience, asked the court for the competency hearing.

Perkins said he was looking to the broader concept of understanding: If Depa understood he was being charged with a crime, that there is a

sentence, and the roles of the court proceedings.

“If you ask most 21-year-olds, ‘What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor,’” Perkins said, “you’re going to get a blank look.”

Ultimately, Perkins said, the reports and testimony showed that Depa has an appropriate understanding of the situation for his age and experience.

Psychologists Dr. Roger Davis and Dr. Jessica Anderton had both interviewed Depa to determine his ability to stand trial. Anderton deemed him incompetent to stand trial, while Davis deemed him competent.

Davis interviewed Depa on May 4, six weeks after Anderton’s interview on March 29. Both the prosecutor, Melissa Clark, and Teifke asked Davis and Anderton questions about Depa’s understanding of the judicial process he is facing and his ability to retain that information.

Davis said that as part of his evaluation, he corrected Depa on several pieces of information regarding his situation: Depa initially believed his punishment was five years, not 30, Davis said; and Depa had believed the jury would “help” the judge decide the case.

Davis said that at the end of the interview, to test Deep’s retention, he spoke with Depa about eight pieces of information he had corrected Depa about earlier in the interview.

Depa answered five of the eight questions correctly, he said, which was pretty good.

“He’s a bright young man,” Davis said.

Anderton agreed that Depa’s IQ doesn’t necessarily factor into this case, based on Depa’s previous medical records and her time with him. He can learn about the legal process, she said, but his autism undermines his ability to ability apply that knowledge to his own case.

“That’s where, in my mind, he will need specialized training to obtain competency,” she said.

Anderton said Autism Spectrum Disorder is divided into three levels of severity, with level three being the most severe. In her professional opinion, she said. Depa is a level three.

Clark noted that Depa’s previous medical history only graded Depa’s autism as a level two.

Anderton said that while Depa could retain several pieces of information about his case that she went over with him, he failed to retain others that they had gone over extensively.

Clark said Depa has demonstrated an ability to learn new information. She also pointed out that even Anderton’s report stated that Depa could be “restored” to competency in eight to 12 months.

But Teifke, Depa’s attorney, said his biggest concern was how well information will be retained in the context of a trial.

“I’m doing more than just suggesting incompetence,” Teifke. “I have grave concerns.”

Davis said that just because a person has a mental disorder, that doesn’t mean they are incompetent.

“There have to be specific symptoms that result in specific competency deficits,” Davis said. “And in my opinion, that’s not the case.”

Because of the advertising and messaging around hearing aids and hearing care in general, many people tend to think of hearing aids like a commodity, in which regardless of where or how you get one, which one you get, the outcome is much the same. “One size fits all”, right? Actually, that’s NOT right. When it comes to treating your hearing loss, it is not that simple. To be properly fit with hearing aids, there are four key steps that need to be taken. 1- A comprehensive hearing evaluation, 2- Selection of the “right” hearing aid, 3- Accurate and appropriate fitting, verified to your prescription, of the correct hearing aid, and 4- Comprehensive aural rehabilitation and follow-up after the hearing aid fitting.

Last month we covered the importance of an accurate fitting hearing aid. This month we are going to talk about how important it is to receive comprehensive aural rehabilitation and follow-up after you have been fit. When you first get your hearing aids, many patients cannot get fit to the full prescription strength at the initial fitting appointment. If you have not been hearing normally, possibly for years; then regaining all that hearing sensitivity all in one shot can be overwhelming, especially if you have a more severe hearing loss. Your audiologist should fit your hearing aids to your prescription, then reduce the strength of that

prescription to a level that is beneficial but still comfortable. The goal is to reach your full prescription as soon as possible, by making gradual increases to the prescription strength in the programmed settings in your hearing aids; but that timeline can vary from 2 weeks to 1 year or more. The timeline is different for everyone, depending on the amount of damage you have to your auditory system and the severity of the hearing loss. These visits are considered “follow-up visits” and are very important as your audiologist will measure your progress and make adjustments to the settings in your hearing aids as your brain changes and improves in its ability to understand speech. Understand-

ing speech is not only about whether you can “hear” it (that’s what the hearing aid does for you), but also the processing that your brain does to understand what is being heard.

Aural rehabilitation is the other component of a plan of care. Your audiologist will use counseling and educational strategies to help you improve your communication skills. In fact, hearing is only one of the 5 keys to communication success. Communication is dependent on the speaker, the listener, the environment, technology, and practice. The aural rehabilitation portion of your care plan will focus on designing and teaching you and your family strategies and skills that

will help you maximize the benefit you get from your hearing aids. It is an important component of hearing care and is often missing when patients purchase hearing aids. Today’s technology is amazing in what it can do for hearing impaired individuals, but at the end of the day, it is the human brain that must process the sounds heard and convert them into meaning. Aural rehabilitation, provided by an experienced and appropriately trained hearing professional, is the missing link for many people who struggle hearing, even with their hearing aids.

Go to www.ormondhearingcenter.com/blog. If you already have hearing aids, and you aren’t hearing well, call and schedule an appointment to have real-ear measures performed on your current devices. If you are considering treating your hearing loss, make sure you ask “Do you provide aural rehabilitation

with your hearing aid fittings? Is there a comprehensive care plan? And where did you get your training?”

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.

Visit our website, www.palmcoasthearingcenter.com to learn more and schedule an appointment. We also have a location to serve you in Ormond.

Barbosa will be competing with Palm Coast Vice Mayor Ed Danko and former County Commissioner George Hanns.

Brendan Depa, a 17-year-old with autism, attacked his paraprofessional at Matanzas High School in February.

doing more than just suggesting incompetence. I have grave concerns.”

KURT TEIFKE, defense attorney

Photo by Sierra Williams Brendan Depa, 17, speaks to his lawyer, Kurt Teifke, at his competency hearing.

Victor Barbosa

Flagler receives grant for new library

The county has also agreed to place a 10% deposit on a new helicopter to replace Fire Flight.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Flagler County will receive a $500,000 grant to build a new library facility in Bunnell. The library has applied for the state-funded $500,000 grant for eight years in a row and was ranked number one for the grant each year, but this is the first year the state is funding the grant and the county is in a position to accept it.

During a quarterly update on the library’s status at a June 19 County Commission meeting, Flagler County Public Library Board of Trustees Chair Jim Ulsamer asked the commission to have the new library facility built at its originally planned 22,000-square-foot size, rather than the 12,000-square foot size the county had proposed to save on construction costs.

The building, tentatively slated for land near the Flagler County Government Services Building, would also house some Health and Human Services functions.

But 90% of the proposed reduction in square footage, Ulsamer said, came from the library’s portion of the building.

“The library has been resource constrained for a long period of time,” Ulsamer said.

Library Director Holly Albanese told the Observer that although the overall floor plan stayed the same, “about 9,000 square feet was actually taken from the library.”

The county’s growing population warrants the larger size, Ulsamer said.

The county initially expected to finish the library in the summer of 2024, but construction was delayed until 2025.

The county shifted the existing Bunnell branch library to a smaller building — an 1,100 square foot location on State Road 100 — in 2021 to prepare for the new facility.

That move was supposed to be temporary, but the library has now been there for two years, Ulsamer said.

Even though space is tight, people are still attending, though they’re not staying as long, Albanese said.

The limited space does mean the location can’t hold services like kids reading groups or other activities, she said.

In fact, the libraries are getting more traffic.

CRIME REPORT

Fourth man arrested over threats to sheriff

Detectives have arrested a fourth suspect who threatened to kill Sheriff Mike Chitwood because of Chitwood’s stance against hate groups, according to a news release from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.

Tony Stromberg of Calgary, Alberta, repeatedly threatened to kill the sheriff and the sheriff’s family and staff in emails, phone calls and tweets, according to VSO. Stromberg used the name “Condor Calabasas” in his emails.

In a follow-up email to the VSO in March, after other suspects who made similar threats had been arrested, Stromberg wrote that he had made an “obviously much more credible threat” and was disappointed that “not one police car let alone FBI car has pulled up to my house,” according to the news release.

BIZ BUZZ

MOORE TO HEAD UNITED WATER RESTORATION

Calgary Police Service detectives arrested Stromberg on Sunday, June 11, charging him with uttering threats to cause death.

He is expected to face the Canadian criminal charge in Canada, without extradition to Volusia County, according to the VSO.

Man charged with possessing child pornography

Deputies have arrested a 24-year-old Palm Coast man on 15 charges of child pornography possession after a 16-month investigation.

Christopher Carlo Caschera Jr. was arrested on June 14 after Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies allegedly found child pornography on Caschera’s phones.

The FCSO received a cyber tip in February 2022 about 17 child pornography videos and photos uploaded to an email address and username that investigators later linked to Caschera Jr., according to his

INTERNS JOIN KISTEMAKER BUSINESS LAW

Now in its 11th year, the Kistemaker Business Law Group Summer Internship program is welcoming a new class of interns.

In April, Ulsamer said, circulation was up 14% from the previous year and traffic was up 11%. In May, circulation increased 20.5% from May 2022, and traffic increased 10%.

But despite the rise in use, the library’s Palm Coast branch cut its hours in March.

“The staffing got so tight that they had no choice but to reduce the operating hours,” Ulsamer said.

The library’s tentative budget is $1.8 million: $1.6 million for the main branch in Palm Coast and just under $200,000 for the Bunnell branch.

Like every other county budget, it has increased due to a cost-of-living adjustment, health insurance increases and other rising administration costs.

The library’s passport service has brought in over $1.1 million in revenue since 2007 when, Albanese implemented the program.

This fiscal year, Ulsamer said, it is expected to bring in a record $175,000 in revenue.

It’s understandable that the county has to prioritize public safety, Ulsamer said, but with the growth in population, the library is “way behind.”

“The staff is doing a yeoman’s job keeping the place running,” Ulsamer said. “People should take a good, hard look at it and think about

arrest report.

The tip included an IP address — a numeric address identifying a computer on the internet — an email address and a user name for a social media messaging platform. Deputies investigated for nine months, then searched a home on Pittman Drive in Palm Coast in December, confiscating two cell phones owned by Caschera Jr. and connected to the email and

what they want for this community.”

FLAGLER COUNTY TO BUY NEW HELICOPTER

The Flagler County Commission has decided to place a deposit on a new helicopter that will eventually replace the 25-year-old Fire Flight emergency helicopter.

The new helicopter will cost $5.4 million, part of which will be covered by Fire Flight’s $600,000 trade-in value.

The new helicopter is three months away from being completed, and the commission unanimously agreed to pay a 10% deposit of $540,000 to reserve it.

County Administrator Heidi Petito brought the option before County Commission at its June 19 budget workshop and regular meeting for approval.

The 10% deposit would come out of reserves the county government has already set aside for a replacement helicopter.

The county has $1.5 million in its general fund reserve for a replacement helicopter, Petito said.

Should the purchase go through, the county could have the helicopter in the fall.

The county had the option to delay the purchase until next year, but that would increase the cost by close to $500,000.

IP addresses uncovered in the investigation, the report said.

Investigators analyzed the devices, finding fifteen files of child pornography, the report said. A judge issued a warrant for Caschera’s arrest on June 14. Caschera Jr. was released from jail on $150,000 bond on June 15.

TRIBUTES

4/22/32 – 5/16/23

United Water Restoration Group has promoted Bob Moore, vice president of franchise operations, to president and shareholder of United Franchise Holdings, LLC.

“Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional performance and played a pivotal role in supporting franchise owners and helping them achieve their business goals,” Lajos Nagy, owner of United Water Restoration Group, said in a news release.

United Water Restoration Group began franchising in 2015 and had five franchise owners when Moore joined. Today, it has 90 units and hopes to add 40 more this year.

This year, the firm again welcomes Annabella Torres, an incoming senior who is matriculating in the AICE program at Seabreeze High School, and Maiale Dodd, a student at Daytona State College completing her associate’s degree.

“Summer is an especially great time at our firm, as we have the pleasure of welcoming and mentoring these bright students,” said Erum Kistemaker, the firm’s managing attorney and shareholder.

“We truly enjoy working with them and broadening their knowledge of the law.”

The program is available to prospective law students looking to gain legal experience and greater insight into the practice of real estate, business, condo/HOA, and/or construction law.

For more information about the internship program, go to daytonabusinesslawyers.com.

With open arms the Lord welcomed Shirley into his Kingdom.

Shirley was the last child born to the late Fannie and George Thomas in Newark, N.J. She had three brothers who loved and spoiled her. She gained a sister Susan after her father remarried. Shirley graduated from West Side High School in Newark, N.J. in 1950, went to work at New Jersey Bell at the age of 21. She married and later became the proud mother of Fred and Craig Batchelor. After 8 years, her marriage ended and her sole purpose in life was to raise her 2 children and give them a good life. After her sons became adults, she married Walter Bigams 5/23/86. A few years later retired and moved to Palm Coast. Joined

1st AME Church and served as an Angel of Mercy, a class leader and helped whenever needed. Shirley also volunteered as a hot line helper for troubled children, on Christmas holidays and was also a member of the Democratic Women’s Club as well as a member of the Pioneers Club, an organization of retired Bell Telephone employees. Upon her marriage to Walter she gained 2 step-daughters, Sylvia Denise Bigams, deceased and Shelly Lyn Bigams. Miss me but let me go.

Shirley Bigams

Bob Moore

BUSINESS OBSERVER

Development, real estate + business news

Crumbl Cookies now open in Palm Coast Kava bar opens in Ormond Beach

Tanner and Karli Reaveley have opened eight Crumbl Cookies locations since moving to Florida over two years ago.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Flagler County’s first Crumbl Cookies location celebrated its grand opening on Friday, June 16.

Franchise owners Tanner and Karli Reaveley have been familiar with the company since it was founded in 2017 in Logan, Utah, where the couple lived before moving to Florida. Before opening Crumbl Cookies locations — the Reaveleys have opened eight in the last two-and-ahalf years since they arrived in Florida — Tanner Reaveley was managing sales teams and Karli Reaveley worked as a registered nurse.

Most of the locations the couple have opened are in South Florida, where they live. Though Palm Coast is far from their home, Tanner Reaveley said, he and his wife will still stop by the bakery from time to time.

“We love getting our hands dirty and making cookies,” he said.

The Reaveleys have hired around 35 employees to staff the Palm Coast location, which is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday and from 8 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

“I’m really excited about the late hours and to try new things, especially new dessert options, in Palm Coast,” said Erin Walker, a customer at the grand opening. “It’s going to be a really big problem for our diets, in the best way.”

The bakery was originally scheduled to open in late April but was delayed because of complications with building permits and electricity.

“We require a lot of power — a lot more than a business this size usually has,” Tanner Reaveley said. “Between our mixers, our ovens, and our warmers and fridges, there’s a lot that we cram into this space.”

The couple chose Palm Coast because they saw a lack of dessert options available, especially late at night, Tanner Reaveley said. They

Owners Jackie and John Sekula made a spur-of-the-moment decision last March to open a kava bar after realizing how many people didn’t know about the drink.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

wanted a location in the heart of the community and chose Island Walk Shopping Center for that reason.

“It comes down to the love for the concept,” Tanner Reaveley said. “We love the rotating menu, the pink wall, all the pink boxes, we just love being around it. So, we want to make sure we provide the same experience that we’ve had at other Crumbls, along with awesome cookies and great customer service.”

Crumbl Cookie offers curbside pickup, inside and online ordering and delivery.

“It’s been very busy but very fun at the same time,” Karli Reaveley said. “Everyone loves the cookies, and so do we. My goal is just to have the business running well.”

Jackie Sekula began drinking kava about five years ago and got her husband John to start drinking it, too. She then began to introduce her friends to it, bringing the drink — made from a root found in the Pacific Islands — to social events and parties.

“I wanted to introduce everybody to kava because I believe in the product immensely,” Sekula said.

In March, she and her husband started planning to open a kava bar, choosing to incorporate their last name into the bar as well.

Thus, Kava Kula was born. It celebrated its grand opening in Ormond Beach on Saturday, June 17.

The recipe for Kava tea is thousands of years old. The root is turned into powder and put into a strainer so it can be steeped. It is then squeezed until it has a clay-like consistency, ensuring all of the liquid has been drained.

Kava is traditionally ladled into a coconut shell and used for ceremonies and peace offerings. According to the Nation-

al Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, kava is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety, insomnia and other conditions.

“It’s a great alternative, in my opinion, for alcohol,” Sekula said. “When you go to a bar and have alcohol, the older you get, the worse it makes you feel the next day, and you won’t get that with kava. When you stop drinking it, within an hour that feeling goes away.”

Kava Kula also offers “K Tea,” which has similar effects but comes from a leaf instead of a root.

Employee Jonathan Casterlane said he enjoys the social element of working at the kava bar.

“Learning how to make new drinks and meeting new cus-

tomers and interacting with them has been so much fun,” Casterlane said.

Customer Annette Escoffery got a tropical fruit-flavored kava drink, similar to a mimosa, at the bar. She liked it.

“I’m a person where I don’t drink any alcohol, so to have something to give me a great, relaxing feeling but tastes good is a game changer,” Escoffery said. Sekula said opening the kava bar at the Fountain Square Shopping Village, located at 142 E. Granada Blvd., was perfect for her and her husband because of the island-themed stores downstairs. Being upstairs, she added, also gives them room to have a patio for customers and possible future events.

The Sekulas aim to open more kava bars around Volusia County in the future.

Photo by Alexis Miller

Karli and Tanner Reaveley, franchise owners of the new Crumbl Cookies

Photo by Alexis Miller

Jackie and John Sekula, owners of Kava Kula

DeSantis axes $510 million from record state budget

Gov. Ron DeSantis trimmed $510.9 million from a record-high state spending plan signed June 15.

JIM TURNER AND RYAN DAILEY NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

Gov. Ron DeSantis trimmed $510.9 million from a record-high state spending plan signed Thursday, June 15, with nearly one-fifth of the cuts coming from a single program designed to keep swaths of rural property from commercial and residential development.

While DeSantis didn’t give any explanation for projects he slashed for the fiscal year that begins July 1, the governor’s line-item vetoes put the state budget at roughly $116.5 billion, a 6% increase from the current year’s spending plan.

A $5 million allocation to build a new Palm Coast Fire Station 22 was among the projects the governor axed from the budget.

DeSantis, who is running for the

LETTERS

Bird cage bridge is an eyesore

Dear Editor:

If there was an award for the ugliest bridge in Florida, the still unfinished pedestrian “bird cage” bridge over State Road 100 would win, hands down.

According to the original rendition that is posted on the highway, it was supposed to be a graceful span that would connect our bicycle paths on both sides of the highway. That rendition certainly lies. It’s gone from a swan to an ugly duck-

BRIEFS

Free help available for fraud victims

Free assistance is available for people who have been defrauded by

YOUR TOWN

FIREWORKS SHOW COMES TO FLORIDA CRACKER RANCH

Flagler Broadcasting and the Florida Cracker Ranch are partnering for the first Red White & BOOM celebration and fireworks show the weekend of June 30.

Come out early on Friday, June 30, with camping gear and ATVs to explore over 1,200 acres of backwoods trails and mud holes.

Saturday, July 1, will feature swamp buggy rides, racing pigs, a free kids zone, food trucks, swimming in Spring Lake and live country and rock bands.

Local artist Jordan Profitt will be opening, and Jordan Redding will be headlining. A fireworks show over the lake will start at 10 p.m.

“The Florida Cracker Ranch has become the fastest-growing family off-road park, in Florida and we are proud to bring this to Flagler County,” said Swayne Stickland, the owner of Florida Cracker Ranch.

Reserve your three-day campsites in advance to stay for the whole weekend. Tents, RVs ATVs and coolers are welcome.

Discount reservations and more details can be found at flaglerbroadcasting.com.

Republican presidential nomination, used a budget signing event at the Pelican Yacht Club in Fort Pierce Thursday morning to contrast Florida’s fiscal approach to that of President Joe Biden and large states led by Democrats.

Florida “is in great shape. The state’s going in a great direction.

You’re not going to see us have the type of problems that these other states have with fiscal insolvency, driving people away,” DeSantis said.

“I mean our tax base is expanding, business investments (are) terrific. And of course, this budget is in fantastic shape.”

DeSantis made no mention of his budget vetoes during Thursday’s event, a contrast to his remarks a year ago when he stood on a stage in The Villages flanked by Republican legislative leaders whose projects were targeted for cuts.

The governor’s office released the budget vetoes hours after the Fort Pierce event ended.

DeSantis used the morning appearance to focus on “record” environmental spending, pay increases for

ling. Communities should be able to take pride in any structure they build, but who could take pride in that monster?

As a bicyclist, I don’t think we needed the bridge in the first place, but the mentality was, since the state government was paying, why not build it? There are better ways to spend taxes, like fixing some of the existing bridges that are falling down. I agree that some kind of a fence is needed to block anyone from dropping deadly objects onto traffic, but the builders couldn’t have designed a more monstrous looking cage if they had tried.

contractors, businesses or others.

Seniors Vs Crime, a special project of the Attorney General’s Office, offers trained case workers to help people in civil disputes with contractors and other businesses or individuals who may have taken

PALM COAST NATIVE HEADS TO D.C. FOR PENTAGON POSITION

Palm Coast native and U.S. Navy Cmdr. James J. Donchez has ceded the command of Navy Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington for a position among the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

Donchez has served in the Navy for 19 years and has been commander of NAS Whidbey Island since May 19, 2022.

He has accumulated over 2,000 flight hours in P-3C Orion and P-8A Poseidon aircrafts and holds a 99% mission completion rate of an “arduous multi-detachment deployment,” according to a press release from Whidbey Island.

Donchez graduated from the University of North Florida in 2004 and was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program.

He became a naval aviator in August 2006, earning his “Wings of Gold,” the press release said.

The Squadron — also known as the VP-9 “Golden Eagles” — specializes in maritime patrol operations using the P8 Poseidon aircraft for various missions like intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, search and rescue, monitoring threats and safeguarding maritime security.

Donchez was officially relieved of his post in a Change of Command ceremony on June 5, passing the

PETS UP FOR ADOPTION

The Flagler Humane Society is located at 1 Shelter Drive off U.S. 1 in Palm Coast. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adoption fees vary based on the animal, and the shelter has both dogs and cats up for adoption.

Anyone who is interested in adopting or has questions about the process can contact the Flagler Humane Society at 386-445-1814 or apply online at flaglerhumanesociety.org.

state law enforcement officers and teachers, $4 billion to speed construction on road projects, and a third year of $1,000 bonuses for law enforcement officers and firefighters throughout the state.

“We are able to do things that make a difference in people’s lives, not by wasting money, but by spending it on things that really have a great impact on the general public,” DeSantis said.

The governor’s office labeled the spending package (SB 2500), along with accompanying conforming bills (SB 2502, SB 2504, SB 2506 and SB 2510), the “Framework to Freedom.”

The largest item nixed from the 515-page budget was $100 million for Conservation And Rural Land Protection easements, a program championed by Agriculture Com

missioner Wilton Simpson.

Created in 2001, the program involves purchasing conservation easements, which allow landowners to continue farming and cattle operations in exchange for not developing the property.

Simpson has linked the program to protecting food production. His

Bridges all over the country have inwardly arched chain link fences that do the job well and don’t make the bridge look like a monster. Short of tearing it all down, I can’t imagine how it could be improved. Painting it in creatively camouflaged colors might help to lessen the overall ugliness. Hiding it with ivy would make it look better, but it would be more of a sail in a hurricane, thus defeating the purpose. Beauty is skin deep, but ugly is to the bone!

FRANK CONSENTINO Palm Coast

advantage of them financially. Its goal is to reduce the victimization of citizens who are often targets of specific crimes or scams. There is no charge for Seniors Vs Crime’s services. If you feel you have been a victim of fraud, call 386-586-

office recently encouraged farmers and ranchers to apply for the state funding, which continues to be distributed through $300 million received for the current fiscal year that ends June 30.

“There is no conceivable reason to target agriculture in a year when we have billions of dollars in reserves,” Simpson, a Republican, said in a statement. “Agriculture was harmed today and so was the state of Florida.”

The next highest cut was to a $30.8 million proposal sponsored by Sen. Ed Hooper, R-Clearwater, to acquire the Kirkland Ranch in Pasco County.

The governor also slashed more than $150 million in proposed education-related funding from the annual spending plan. The vetoes included proposed expenditures such as a pay raise for teachers working in juvenile-justice education programs and big-ticket construction projects at state colleges and universities.

The budget signed by DeSantis included $850 million for the Florida Wildlife Corridor and $100 million in recurring funding for the Florida Forever land protection program.

Editor’s note: The Flagler County government posted the following message on its official Facebook page on June 16: “The new pedestrian bridge located over S.R. 100 is still a work in progress. A special coating will be applied to give the metal grating a more rustic look and reduce glare. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”

Send letters to Jonathan@ observerlocalnews.com. Letters must focus on local issues and may not exceed 400 words. Include full name, city of residence and a phone number for verification.

PALM COAST Observer

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher John Walsh, jwalsh@observerlocalnews.com

Managing Editor Jonathan Simmons, jonathan@observerlocalnews.com

Senior Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com

Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com

Staff Writer Sierra Williams, sierra@observerlocalnews.com

Design Editor Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com

Director of Engagement Kaitlyn Stier, kstier@observerlocalnews.com

Senior Media Specialist Susan Moore, susan@observerlocalnews.com

Advertising Coordinator Jessica Boone, jessica@observerlocalnews.com

Operations Manager Bonnie Hamilton, bonnie@observerlocalnews.com

Circulation Coordinator, Draven Owens, dowens@observerlocalnews.com

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Observers are published every Thursday. To subscribe for driveway delivery, visit www.observerlocalnews.com/subscribe, call 386-447-9723, or email subscribe@ observerlocalnews.com.

TO ADVERTISE

Call the office at 386-447-9723.

Locally Owned / Publishers of The Palm Coast Observer Palm Coast Observer, LLC P.O. Box 353850 Palm Coast, 32135

VETERAN OF THE WEEK

2634 for an appointment or visit seniorsvscrime.com to file a complaint.

Seniors Vs Crime’s outreach program offers speakers to address groups on fraud prevention. Contact Seniors Vs Crime to schedule your presentation.

Donald Thelen

Gus is a 12-yearold deaf terrier mix. He’s been at the shelter since April 12.

Stella is a 7-year-old terrier mix. She’s been at the shelter since February 2022.

 Branch of military: U.S. Army, retired  Dates of service: 1969-2013  Rank/occupation: Command Sergeant Major/Field Artillery, Recruiting  Hometown: St Johns, Michigan Donald Thelen enlisted the U.S. Army and trained as an artilleryman. After his first enlistment, in 1973, he joined the National Guard as a mess sergeant for one year before joining an Army Reserve medical unit in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1983, he was hired as a full-time active reservist and placed in charge as station commander of a recruiting office. He would go on to a stellar career, first as command retention sergeant major at the 77th Regional Support Command in New York City, responsible for retention and training for more than 19,000 personnel. During that assignment, he coordinated strategic response plans with the New York City Fire Department in support of the response following the attacks on the World Trade Center. In 2003, he was assigned as commandant of the Army Reserve NCO Academy in Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. It is the Army Reserves largest training academy. In 2006, he assumed the role as command sergeant major at the 304th Sustainment Brigade in Riverside, California, responsible for six battalions. A command sergeant major is appointed to serve as a spokesman to address the issues of all soldiers, from enlisted to officers, from warrant officers and lieutenants to the Army’s highest positions. As such, they are the senior enlisted advisor to the commander. He would go on to two more assignments as a command sergeant major, at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Fort Devens, Massachusetts, before retiring in 2013. Thelen and his wife Debbie moved to Palm Coast in 2022. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

NEED HELP WITH VETERAN SERVICES?

For information about benefits and support organizations for veterans, call 386-313-4014.

Photo courtesy of James Donchez

Commander James J. Donchez during his Change of Command ceremony.

torch to Cmdr. Jordan Brye, according to the press release. Donchez is moving to D.C. with his

wife Katherine and two young sons, Luke and Andrew.

African American Cultural Society celebrates Juneteenth.

The parking lot overflowed at the African American Cultural Center and Museum in Palm Coast on Saturday, June 17, for the African American Cultural Society’s 31st annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration.

YOUR NEIGHBORS Freedom rings

The African American Cultural Society’s event was themed “Forward Ever, Backward Never.” Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

The celebration featured a barbecue, live music and entertainment from a variety of local artists, a silent auction, arts and crafts from local artisans and plenty of fun activities and games.

Mayor David Alfin presented a proclamation from the city to AACS President Joe Jones declaring June 17, 2023, as Juneteenth Celebration Day.

The celebration was supported by the city of Palm Coast, Florida Division of Arts and Culture and VisitFlagler.com.

–OBSERVER STAFF

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chi Delta Omega Chapter, Palm Coast, were at the Juneteenth Celebration to remind people to

Middleton-Valentine, Thea Hines-Jones and Dora Giddens. Standing: Gerri Dillon, Sue Fray, Robbie Johnson, Cassandra Stephenson and Betty Donaldson.

and education is

of the sorority’s national initiatives.

Mayor David Alfin, right, presents a proclamation from the city declaring June 17, 2023, as Juneteenth Celebration Day. The proclamation was presented to Joe Jones, president of the African American Cultural Society, and young Tamara Woolfolk, whom the mayor said he looks to as inspiration for the future of the community.

Flagler Beach Djembe Jammers Anne Kissel, Dalva Smith, Cartier Isaac and Jeremiah Isaac perform traditional music during the Celebration.

Palm Coast resident Gloria Teal narrows her choices of colorful clothing offered by one of the vendors at the Juneteenth celebration.

Annette Anderson presents one of her art pieces to a customer at the Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration.

The Voices of Faith Choir leads the audience in singing praise and worship to celebrate Juneteenth at the African American Cultural Center and Museum.

African American Cultural Society member Walter Seato (left) asks vendor Gail Johnson about her colorful clothing, handmade in Ghana.

Mistress of Ceremonies Imani Evans shares the message “Forward Ever, Backward Never” to open the 31st Juneteenth Celebration.

Photos by Christine Rodenbaugh

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY,

JUNE 22 TURTLE REHABILITATION

When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Ocean Art Gallery will host an educational forum talk on turtle rehabilitation with Allie Bernstein, manager of turtle rehabilitation at the Marine Science Center. Reservations are required. Call 386-317-9400.

VOLUSIA-FLAGLER SIERRA CLUB MEETING

When: 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Natural Concepts Revisited, 142 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

WALKING WITH WARRIORS: A PROJECT REBIRTH TRAINING

When: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Beach Details: Join the Volusia-Flagler Sierra Club for a presentation on rain barrels by Chris Rentz, “The Barrel Man” from DeLand. The meeting will also include updates on current group efforts and activities. Free and open to the public.

DAYTONA STATE COLLEGE

SUMMER JAZZ CONCERT

When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: The News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach Details: Attend this DSC jazz concert to kick off the summer. Free admission.Ω

Where: Florida National Guard Armory, 100 Fin Way Palm Coast Details: Attend this training designed for those who care about veterans and first responders. Presented by Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services, the aim of the training is to provide participants with practical tools and resources for responding to the unique needs of veterans and first responders. Participants will receive a free lunch. Register at https://tinyurl. com/mt6hcx5.

TURTLE TALK

When: 11 a.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100

S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach Details: Learn about the role sea turtles play in Florida and how your actions can help preserve turtles for generations to come. Program is limited to 25. All ages are welcome. Entrance into the park is $5 per vehicle. Call 386-517-2086 to reserve your seat.

BARBECUE AND JAZZ

When: 4 p.m.

Where: Palm

Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast

Details: Join the North East Florida Jazz Association for its annual Barbecue and Jazz event, featuring the Shawn Pfaffman Quartet. Tickets cost $40 for members, $45 for guests and are available at Chez Jacqueline, at 25 Palm Harbor Village Way, or online at NEFJA.org.

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER FUNDRAISER

When: 6 p.m.

Where: Club Mosaic Bandshell, 715 Mosaic Blvd., Daytona Beach Details: The Taylor Road Band will be performing and donating a large percentage of its performance fee to help the community’s animals. Free event. Register at conta. cc/43F8FMR.

is run by Flagler Schools, is looking to boost membership. Open house includes a free cookout both days from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

NAVAL CIVIL WAR IN

FLORIDA

When: 10 a.m.

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

Details: Robert Mattson, member of the USS Pawnee Guard, will discuss a broad overview of naval actions in Florida during the American Civil War, based on his book, “The Civil War Navy in Florida.” Free admission. Event presented by the Ormond Beach Historical Society.

AMERICAN RADIO RELAY LEAGUE’S ANNUAL FIELD

DAY

When: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 24 to 2 p.m.

Sunday, June 25

Where: Hammock Community Center, 79 Mala Compra Road, Palm Coast

Details: Local amateur radio operators will take part in the American Radio Relay League’s annual Field Day. Every June, more than 40,000 hams throughout North America set up temporary transmitting stations in public places to demonstrate ham radio’s science, skill and service to our communities for 24 hours. The local effort will include hams associated with the Flagler Palm Coast Amateur Radio Club, Flagler Emergency Communications Association, and Flagler County Amateur Radio Emergency Service. Free event.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

CRABBING BASICS

When: 8:30 a.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach Details: Learn how to catch Atlantic blue crabs during this one-hour, hands-on program. All ages are welcome. Entrance into the park is $5 per vehicle. Pre-registration required. Call 386-517-2086.

SUMMER OPEN HOUSE

WEEKEND AT BELLE TERRE SWIM AND RACQUET CLUB

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25

Where: Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club, 73 Patricia Drive, Palm Coast Details: The club, which

Details: The Atlantic Federated Republican Women and John Hamlin will host Lt. Col. Allen West, who will speak on the topic on how to bring Black voters back into the Republican Party. General admission tickets cost $65. Visit atlanticrepublicanwomen. com/special-event.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28

GUIDED KAYAK TOUR

When: 9 a.m.

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

Details: Join this two-hour guided kayak tour to learn about the importance of the local coastal ecosystem. All levels of experience are welcome. Registration and donation of $45 per person requested; $20 if using your own kayak. Space is limited. Call 386-517-2086 for AND REFLECTIONS

When: June 4 through July 15

Where: Expressions Art Gallery, 2298 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast

Details: See this exhibition featuring artists Suzanne Barrett and Louise Kennedy.

EXERCISES FOR THE MATURING BODY

When: 10:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays

Where: First Baptist Church of Palm Coast, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

LT. COL. ALLEN WEST

PRESENTATION AND BOOK

SIGNING

When: 2-5 p.m.

Where: Forever Ranch, 3600 West S.R. 40, Ormond Beach

Details: Attend upbeat classes presented by Synergy Senior Fitness and taught by Senior Fitness Specialist Artie Gardella. Classes are ongoing. Insurances that cover fitness accepted, or a donation for those with no coverage. Visit Synergyseniorfitness.com.

MOAS EXHIBITIONS

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach

Details: Want to spend a day looking at fine art? The Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach has the following exhibitions on display: “Unfolding the Universe: The James Webb Space Telescope,” and “Caribbean Indigenous Resistance.”

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

THE FINE ARTS

INSPIRATIONS AND REFLECTIONS

Two longtime Palm Coast residents and artists have joined forces to present an art exhibit at Expressions Art Gallery on Colbert in Palm Coast.

Titled “Inspirations and Reflections,” the exhibition features the works of Suzanne Barrett and Louise Kennedy and will be on display through July 15.

Barrett shows paintings as far away as California and London, England, according to her bio. She has studied with several artists and is currently studying with local artist Peter Cerreta. Her inspiration comes from nature and the

“joy she finds in her children and grandchildren,” her bio states. Kennedy is a self-taught artist and is also currently studying under Cerreta. According to her bio, her medium of choice is clay, and she sculpts realistic images in abstract and fantasy situations. She has won several awards, including Best of Show for “The Last Hope,” which is on display at the gallery.

Expressions Art Gallery on Colbert is located at 2298 Colbert Lane in Palm Coast. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

–JARLEENE ALMENAS

“Early Spring in the Countryside,” by Suzanne Barrett

Tree Spirit, by Louise Kennedy

Q+A MIKE CAVALIERE, AUTHOR OF ‘THE HUMORIST’

So funny, it’s scary

BRIAN MCMILLAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

What’s scarier than horror movies? Growing up. Or are they two sides of the same coin?

Fear is at the heart of Mike Cavaliere’s debut memoir, “The Humorist,” intertwining life lessons from his adventures in adulting with tongue-in-cheek lessons learned from horror movies.

Cavaliere, a former editor at the Palm Coast and Ormond Beach Observer newspapers, is also the author of “Tracks in the Sand” and won awards at every step of the way. He is currently director of news and media relations at EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University.

Cavaliere spoke with me via Zoom about his motivations for creating, and what follows is a transcript of our interview, edited for clarity and length.

Where did you get the idea for this book, Mike?

It’s been brewing for a while. While we worked together at the paper, I was writing a weekly humor column about my trials and tribulations of being a 20-something. This is sort of the next chapter, about life in my 30s, when you’re in a new phase of life, and you’re dealing with different problems having to do with marriage and being a parent and trying to figure out do I want to have a baby, and death of loved ones being diagnosed with rare diseases. Tying that into my lifelong obsession with horror movies felt like a good fit because I think that when you’re growing up, the common thread throughout all the strongest memories of your life is fear, in one way or another, whether that’s the fear of change, or the unknown.

You studied creative nonfiction as an undergrad. How do you define it?

In the simplest terms, it’s stories just like fiction, just like a novel, except they’re based off your own life. So you’re trying to find themes and stories that have a certain narrative punch to them, and you’re

connecting a lot of various threads to try to learn something about yourself or the world.

Your first line of dialogue reads like this: “‘Mom!’ I probably yelled.” And on Page 17, your step daughter has a hilarious line of dialogue, using the word “salacious” and other unrealistic vocabulary for a 4-year-old. What are you trying to teach us early on about how to read this book?

Ideally, I want it to be crystal clear and obvious when I’m taking liberties and exaggerating for comic effect, and when I’m being sincere. I think that you do that through little cues, but usually, I think you do that with tone. It is kind of a tight wire to walk, because you can’t make it so obvious where you’re holding up direction signs, like, “This part is exaggerated, this part is not real.” There is a lot of flipping and flopping in this book between, silly, funny sections, and kind of sad and serious sections.

One of those early sincere passages goes like this: “Scary movies weave themselves into our genes. They persist because no matter how old we get, we never outgrow fear. It’s the one constant through line in each of our coming of age stories. It’s a drug, and I’ve been chasing it’s high … for as long as I can remember.” What have you learned about fear from writing the story?

Fear is this endlessly fascinating thing, because on the one hand, it’s everywhere in our culture, even in weird ways. Look back at our fairy tales. Even “Sesame Street” had a vampire teaching us how to count. It permeates our growing up and teaches us these morals, so it’s everywhere on the one hand; but then, on the other hand, we are ashamed of fear in certain ways. We don’t actively try to face something if it makes us uncomfortable or afraid. We tell ourselves certain stories to kind of navigate around that, like “I’m over it.” We tell ourselves we’ve moved past whatever traumatic thing that’s happened in the past.

I think horror movies are the most visceral art form that we have. When you watch a horror movie, you feel all of these different sensations, and you jump in your seat, and your heart rate goes up, and you might get a little clammy and sweaty. And for someone like me,

who has always been an overthinker, there’s something great about the reminder that horror movies give you that there’s more going on in the world. It puts you more in touch with your body. It’s a reminder that you should pay as much attention to external stimuli, your physical body, as your intellectual one.

Writing this book was basically an exercise in overthinking, trying to find every scrap of significance in little tiny details of your life. What was it like to revisit your life with such a microscope?

It’s a process that feeds itself. The more that I went back, and I thought about these formative moments in my life, and the clearest memories that I had, the more I found all of these examples of escaping through screens, or through imagination, or through defenses of other kinds, whether it be film criticism, or writing or reporting, where you’re sort of involved in your life, but then you find a you find a certain way to detach from the realness and the bigness of it, by just observing and reviewing your experiences rather than actively being a part of them. And by going through all of these memories, it forces you to see patterns in your own behavior, and then confront why you are this way, why you do these things. One of the driving forces behind committing to this project was the desire to break that wall of protection down.

You’ve said “The Blair Witch Project” is one of your favorite horror movies, and part of the reason it’s so compelling is the doit-yourself style. That’s one thing I admire about your book as well, the idea that you decided to do it, set your own deadlines and put this piece of art out into the world. But how do you handle the selfdoubt and the thought that, in the end, maybe no one will care?

I think that you hit a point where that self doubt hits you like a ton of bricks. And you have to ask yourself why you’re doing it in the first place. And if you’re doing it for other people’s approval, or to make a million dollars and to be famous, then you’re probably doing it for the wrong reasons. And so early in the

process, I just had to tell myself that if nobody reads this, who cares? I’m writing this because I feel like I’ve spent all my personal time writing about things that I care about, but kind of tucking it away. I’ve written 2,500 movie reviews, and they’re on Letterboxd now, but for the first 10 years that I did them, I would hand write them in a little notebooks and put them aside in my room and tell no one that I did them. It was just this secret little journal. And this book was about breaking that cycle. I wanted to stop feeling like I was hiding my ambitions or my creativity or a fear of failure.

I decided, whatever happens happens; I’m going to put it out, hopefully people like it, but I don’t have expectations of it blowing up because that seems like the quickest path to disappointment.

At one point you’re asking yourself why you were tipping Port-a-Potties as a teenager, and then you weave that story into one about your daughter, and you’re asking why she is stealing snacks from the pantry. What did you discover?

I think that the generational divide is interesting, because holds a mirror up and forces us to recognize patterns that not only we carry through our own lives, but are maybe universal to everyone who is growing up. And I noticed that there’s this primal urge that kids have to break the rules, and to just do stupid things, for no real reason, and not even think about the consequences. What I came to is, we do this as a way to be seen. We go out in the darkness and make a mess, because this leaves our mark, and we feel like when we drive by in the morning, and we see that Port-aPotty on the street, we know that we did it. I think that it was the same with my daughter: She would get a certain amount of attention, negative or otherwise, from us from doing these things. And it was just such a clear reflection of my own nighttime debauchery in action, just sort of this directionless, smashing up of structure.

Search “Mike Cavaliere The Humorist” to find it on Amazon. Audiobook available soon.

celebrity cipher

By Luis

Campos

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for

“PIH SX UEH XIIA HE XNHFXTK ESY

HLFYXH TEY TYIIGEC VK GYFUAFUM

TYEC HLI JSD ET ... LNHYIG.”

CNYHFU PSHLIY AFUM ZY.

Puzzle One Clue: D equals P

“UGBBHLS HL BRDW ... HO G XRTKBWAWBJ AMGLOXWLVWLA

WCKWMHWLXW. HA’O BHEW WGAHLS KHFFG-UBGDRMWV HXW XMWGT.” THEW YHMYHSBHG

Puzzle Two Clue: U equals F Puzzle Three Clue: N equals B

“DZKKYW TD PWHOJ NRTJPD TJ REZTDTHJH, REJS OTJPD TJ OUEKTJS, DXHPY EC YRKD HJP KHGRYD TJ JYO YJSRHJP.” HWVXTNHRP KHVRYTDX

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

Courtesy photo

Mike Cavaliere was formerly a journalist and editor for the Palm Coast and Ormond Beach Observers. He now is the executive director of news and media relations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

COIN FLIPS by Alex Eaton-Salners, edited by Jeff Chen

another.

Strength in numbers

Matanzas football roster surpasses 100 players.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Matanzas football program hit a milestone this spring. For the first time in Matt Forrest’s four years as head coach, the Pirates have over 100 players on their roster.

That’s quite a growth spurt from Forrest’s first season in 2020 when the Pirates had about 40 players in the program, including six freshmen on varsity. All six are still with the team, now preparing for their senior season.

“It feels great,” said fourth-year starter Cole Hash as he looked around at dozens of teammates working out in the hot sun in the Pirates’ summer conditioning program. “I think we’ve proved to our school that we’re going to build something here. I think kids are seeing the work that we’re putting in, and they want to come and join the process, and I think they’re loving it.”

Forrest said looking back at the COVID season of 2020 is kind of a blur.

“It was a bad time to come in and be a head coach for the first time,” he said. “But we established what we wanted this program to look like. We

felt we’d focus on the person first. We wanted them to get in the classroom, get in the community, and the football piece would fall into place. To have this participation now, and the kids sticking it out, is really awesome.”

Preseason practice is still more than a month away, and the players already feel the energy level rising and competition becoming more fierce.

“The coaches are getting more forceful, in a good way, and it’s bringing the team together. Everyone’s getting excited for this season,” said senior Ahmad Louis-Charles, who plays center and defensive tackle.

Senior receiver/cornerback Sho’Marion Gaines moved to Texas last season but returned to Matanzas for the spring semester. He said the difference in summer workouts now compared to his freshman season goes beyond numbers.

“It’s 100 on the roster, so now spots are not just given out on the field,” Gaines said. “Now you got to work to earn your spot on the

Crash course

field. When you see a lot of people, it makes you want to work more and be more competitive. It’s been way more serious.”

The Pirates earned a berth in the playoffs in 2020 by beating New Smyrna Beach 7-6 in a play-in game. They feel they have the talent and depth this year to return to the postseason.

“We’ve had a couple of rebuilding years,” Hash said. “Now that I’m a senior, I see what those older guys meant when they said, ‘It goes by quick, don’t blink.’ Now I’m talking to freshmen and telling them, ‘Hey, it goes by fast, don’t blink.’

“It’s my last year, and I want to go out on a big stand,” Hash said.

“I want to prove to our community and the people that watch us that we mean business here at Matanzas. We’re not just a little brother to FPC. I want everybody to know that Matanzas is really a football school, and that we’re here to make a statement. We’re here to make something happen this season.”

Second annual Seabreeze youth soccer camp teaches skills through fun.

MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Seabreeze girls soccer coach Eli Freidus held the second annual youth soccer camp at Seabreeze High School on June 19-21. Thirty kids participated, an increase from last year’s numbers even though the weather was rainy and the players were relegated to indoor activities part of the time.

Assistant coach Christine Goebel, along with 13 Seabreeze soccer players, joined Freidus to help with instruction and organization. Senior Kylie Watson imparted knowledge about her experience as a high school soccer player for the second year in a row. She and her teammates were excited to participate when Freidus proposed the idea last year.

“We had camps when we were little, and they were so much fun,” she said. “Now we get to be the counsel-

ors. It came full circle.”

One of the most important lessons she would like the kids to take away from the camp is to have fun. She remembers being stressed out and worried about performing well in front of coaches when she played at their age. Watson added that the stress can ruin the sport for kids.

Teammate and fellow rising senior Morgan Long agrees.

“Have fun and enjoy your sport while you can,” Long said. “Also, have confidence. Grab a ball and work on the little things as you can. That will take you a long way.”

Carly McNerney was part of the first camp. She knows a lot of the kids from last year and has built relationships with some of them. She is excited to see that they have been using the skills instilled in them last year. “In order to play soccer, you can’t just think about yourself,” she said.

“You need to be able to think about what every other player is doing. There’s a whole bunch of chemistry in the sport, and if you’re not one with your team and all wanting the same goal, you’re not going to succeed as well as you think you’re going to.”

Senior Hannah Howell appreciates what Freidus brings to soccer. She believes he is the one that pulls everyone together and ensures that all players fully understand even the smallest skill. Being at camp brings back memories of when she started playing the sport.

“This is like an image of myself when I was this age, and I just had love for this sport,” she said. “I just enjoyed it so much. It wasn’t so much about the pressure or the competitiveness, it was more of ... I love to play, and you can really see that when all the little kids are playing.”

Photos by Brent Woronoff

Matanzas football players run sprints during a morning workout.

“I think we’ve proved to our school that we’re going to build something here.”

COLE HASH

Photos by Michele Meyers

Camp counselors Kylie Watson (left) and Hannah Howell battle during a game of “handball.”

Coach Eli Freidus (back right), assistant coach Christine Goebel (back left), the Seabreeze soccer team camp counselors (back row) and the summer campers

“Have fun and enjoy your sport while you can. Also, have confidence. Grab a ball and work on the little things as you can. That will take you a long way.”

MORGAN LONG, Seabreeze soccer player

REAL ESTATE

House in Plantation Bay tops sales list in Flagler

Ahouse in Plantation Bay was the top real estate transaction for May 4-10 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. Rebecca and Michael Focht, as trustees, sold 650 Woodbridge Drive to Charles and Karen Skeens, of Ormond Beach, for $999,250. Built in 2014, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen and 3,150 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $640,000.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

Renee Worthington and Emily Holland, of Flagler Beach, sold 4600 East Moody Blvd., Unit 15D, to Brian Kelley, of Bunnell, for $210,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 951 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $159,900.

U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, sold 25 Magnolia Drive South to Brian Omland, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, for $302,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,300 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $205,100.

Mitchell Jay Freed and Holly Melinda Freed, of Winter Park, sold 3580 South Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 304, to Steven and Laura Palmer, of Fort Myers, for $530,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,476 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $349,000.

Rae Marie Maffeo and Nicholas Maffeo, of Flagler Beach, sold 3580 South Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 508, to Kathleen and Kevin Day, of Belle Isle, for $457,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,290 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $339,000.

Warren and Jacqueline Rosander, of Jacksonville, sold 60 Surfview

Drive, Unit 310, to Stephen and Sherry Ritter, of Bethel, Ohio, for $600,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 1,640 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $429,900.

Cathryn Demers, as trustee, sold 1400 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 1432, to Craig Rumrill, of Palm Coast, for $385,500. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,377 square feet. It sold in 2011 for $95,000.

FLAGLER BEACH

George MoodyRosana Vidal, of Flagler Beach, sold 1224 South Central Ave. to Christopher and Jennifer Wilson, of Flagler Beach, for $650,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, a fire pit, an outdoor shower and 1,364 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $430,000.

PALM COAST

Belle Terre

LGI Homes – Florida LLC, of Woodlands, Texas, sold 54 President Lane to Juan Jose Ocasio Sierra and Jinneliz Marie Bassat Reyes, of Palm Coast, for $300,900. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,270 square feet.

Grand Haven

William Albert Allen and Dorothy Marie Allen, as trustees, sold 13

Egret Drive to Thomas Dean Zike and Leslie Zike, of Palm Coast, for $585,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,183 square feet.

Hidden Lakes

Jennifer Wagner, of Palm Coast, sold 122 Arena Lake Drive to William Overton, of Palm Coast, for $575,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 1,946 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $449,900.

Indian Trails Donald and Angela Urbina, of Flagler Beach, sold 5 Buffalo Grove Place to Cory and Tiffany Saffer, of Palm Coast, for $429,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 5/2.5 and has 2,941 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $225,000.

Lehigh Woods

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 50 Ryder Drive to Benjamin Weldon and Victoria Bolzak, of Palm Coast, for $318,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,862 square feet.

Not in a subdivision

Susan Jean Michaelson and John Michaelson, of Henrico, Virginia, sold 57 Forsythe Lane to Tamara Borges, of Palm Coast, for $325,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,561 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $33,400.

Palm Harbor Michael and Laurie Struhar, of Palm Coast, sold 22 Foxhall Lane to Scott Craig Dupont and Jacqueline Dupont, of Palm Coast, for $610,000. Built in 1987, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,074 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $105,000.

De Linda Jordan, of Clarksville, Tennessee, sold 28 Cold Spring Court to Fernando Ismael Ramirez and Alba Lidia Ramirez, of Plam Coast, for $515,000. Built in 1988, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool and 2,032 square feet. It sold in 2012 for $178,000.

Pine Grove D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 84 Point Pleasant Drive to Arndt and Sandra Jones, of Palm Coast, for $380,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,363 square feet.

Derrick and Shannon Williams, of Birmingham, Alabama, sold 166 Pritchard Drive to Kyle and Andrea Delfin, of Palm Coast, for $360,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,802 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $218,900.

Quail Hollow Thomas and Leslie Limanni, of McCormick, South Carolina, sold 26 Llewellyn Trail to Douglas and Blanca Warren, of Palm Coast, for $480,000. Built in 2021, the house

is a 4/3 and has 2,445 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $333,800.

Sea Colony

Anne Sowinski, Andrew Sowinski, Stephen Sowinski, Cecillia Mis, Wayne Novach and Kathleen Novach, of Westland, Michigan, sold 18 Medford Drive to Kenneth and Barbara Ambos, of Bay Shore, New York, for $395,000. Built in 1988, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,376 square feet. It sold in 1988 for $108,000.

Seminole Woods Raymond Charles Copeland, of Palm Coast, sold 8 Secretary Trail to Richard Dwyer, of Palm Coast, for $319,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,794 square feet. It sold in 2012 for $118,000.

Toscana Lorie Lynn Hendricks, of Roanoke, Texas, sold 74 New Leatherwood Drive to Donald Lewis, of Palm Coast, for $715,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,274 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $656,429.

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

Well maintained ICI-built home that exudes luxury and comfort. 3BR, 2BA, and a 2-CG. Spacious formal living room and dining room. Private master suite with private master bath. The large screened-in lanai has a summer kitchen, inground salt water pool, and heated spa make outdoor living a breeze. MLS#1108937 $589,000 Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.

Beautiful 3 bed 2.5 bath family home. Located on a large corner lot w/ gorgeous golf course views!! New windows in 2023, laminate flooring in 2021, and a new screen porch in 2021. The bright open kitchen has plenty of cabinets and counter space. $425,000 Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.

Creek

Fly In. Beautiful kitchen with high-quality cabinetry and granite countertops. Large owner’s suite with luxurious bathroom and opens to the lanai. Stunning outdoor oasis with a lap pool, spa, waterfalls, fire bowls and gourmet outdoor kitchen. MLS#1109380 $1,975,000

Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.

Welcome to your dream home on the most sought-after street in Ormond Beach! This riverfront house offers an unparalleled living experience with breathtaking views of the river from every room. 3 bed 3.2 bath. new dock, boathouse and lift. Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.

The house at 650 Woodbridge Drive has 3,150 square feet of living space.

SPRUCE CREEK FLY IN

OCEANVIEW CONDO

PLANTATION BAY

REAL ESTATE

House in Halifax Plantation sells for over $1 million

Ahouse in Halifax Plantation was the top real estate transaction for May 7-13 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. Alex and Debra Mackiel, of Fort Worth, Texas, sold 1405 Lilly Anne Lane to Troy and Penny Berry, of Mount Lookout, West Virginia, for $1,085,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/3.5 with a pool, hot tub, fireplace, outdoor kitchen and 3,270 square feet.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER ORMOND BEACH

Breakaway Trails

Roderick and Sheila Gammon, of Daytona Beach, sold 12 Tomoka Cove Way to Rebecca and Michael Focht, of Ormond Beach, for $890,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 3,846 square feet.

Charles Square Cody and Hannah Wilson, of New Smyrna Beach, sold 14 Charleston Square to Anna Boyko and Maksim Platonov, of Ormond Beach, for $422,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 1,525 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $275,000.

Fox Hollow

Richard Vowles and Ryan White, of Jacksonville, sold 5 Springer Court to William Jerome Kidd and Neva Jayne Kidd, of Ormond Beach, for $349,000. Built in 1987, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,888 square feet. It sold in 2008 for $185,929.

Halifax Plantation

Phillip MacIntyre, of Merritt Island, Robert MacIntyre, of Ormond Beach, and Jodi Williams,

of Ormond Beach, sold 3247 Galty Circle to Elizabeth Ann Lockmiller and John Harold Lockmiller, as trustees, for $425,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,088 square feet.

Daniel and Debra Skidmore, of Ormond Beach, sold 3241 Tralee Drive to Jerry Hartsock and Carole Evans, of Ormond Beach, for $475,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,919 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $259,000.

Hunters Ridge Brian and Margaret Dawson, of Anderson, South Carolina, sold 91 Foxcroft Run to Donald and Theresa Bertch, of Ormond Beach, for $1,000,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub and 4,158 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $440,000.

Lauderdale DFV IRA, LLC, of Daytona Beach, sold 80 Country Club Drive to Domain Homes, Inc., of Tampa, for $795,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,197 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $425,000.

Northbrook Jennifer Lynn Mollo and Kristin Marie Butrico, of Ormond Beach,

sold 2 Boxwood Court to Debra and Michael Trotter, of Ormond Beach, for $410,000. Built in 1979, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 1,623 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $220,000.

Not in a subdivision

Dawn Marie Shore, of Daytona Beach, sold 828 Fleming Ave. to Chertisa LLC, of Ormond Beach, for $82,900. Built in 1970, the house is a 2/1 and has 672 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $51,000.

Ormond Lakes

Joanna Sovern Martin, as trustee, sold 38 Lakebluff Drive to Amy and Bruce McCandless, of Ormond Beach, for $474,900. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,221 square feet. It sold in 2002 for $223,700.

Ormond Terrace

Annetta Wolohan, of Monrovia, Indiana, sold 156 Cumberland Ave. to Joanne Bowlus, of Ormond Beach, for $323,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,457 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $239,900.

Riverbend Acres

Joanne Bowlus and Rodney Lane, of Ormond Beach, sold 216 Riverbend Road to Matthew and Tara Pittman, of Ormond Beach, for $600,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2 with a fireplace, pool and 2,131 square

feet. It sold in 2019 for $330,000.

Tomoka Estates Kevin and Tracey McLaughlin, of Racine, Wisconsin, sold 1179 Roberts St. to Susan Marie McCrary, of Ormond Beach, for $465,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 1,845 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $178,000.

Tomoka Oaks Terri Ann Hauser, of Newland, North Carolina, sold 117 River Bluff Drive to Daniel and Elizabeth Kuras, of Ormond Beach, for $420,000. Built in 1979, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,944 square feet. It sold in 1990 for $129,900.

The Trails Nelson and Harold Acosta, of Spring Hill, sold 31 Rio Pinar Trail to Miles and Kathryn Wilson, of Ormond Beach, for $365,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a fireplace and 2,143 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $175,000.

Trails North Forty Linda Mentzera, of Middletown, Pennsylvania, sold 28 Big Buck Trail to Gina Billups, of Ormond Beach, for $315,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,746 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $193,500.

ORMOND BY THE SEA

John LaSalle, of Palm Coast, sold 43 Capistrano Drive to Home Away

Investments and Services LLC, of Ormond Beach, for $328,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,715 square feet.

William Allen Acton, of St. Augustine, sold 7 Dunes Circle to Steven and Chelsey Lockhart, of Ormond Beach, for $550,000. Built in 1964, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace and 2,510 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $389,000.

STU Fish Properties Investments LLC, of Ormond Beach, sold 26 Palm Drive to Anthony John Ufolla, Jr. and Monica Lynn Ufolla, of Ormond Beach, for $419,000. Built in 1955, the house is a 2/1.5 and has 940 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $305,000.

Robert Kolodziejski, of Debary, sold 4 Seaside Drive to Matthew Valdez and Tara Gallahan, of Stafford, Virginia, for $412,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 2/1 and has 1,167 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $201,000.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

AT 1138 COUNTY ROAD 305 FROM FLAGLER COUNTY “C-1, NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL” TO CITY OF BUNNELL “B-1, BUSINESS DISTRICT”. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell’s website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City’s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the proposed Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information this ordinance can be obtained at the office of the Bunnell Customer Service Office, 604 E. Moody Blvd. Unit 6, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting.

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

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

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

THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2023

also

consider any other business that may properly come before it. A copy of the agenda and Proposed Budget may be obtained at the offices of the District Manager, c/o PFM Group Consulting LLC, 3501 Quadrangle Boulevard, Suite 270, Orlando, Florida 32817, (407) 723-5900 (“District Manager’s Office”), during normal business hours, or by visiting the District’s website at http://tomokacdd.com. The public hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law. The public hearing and meeting may be continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Board Supervisors or District Staff may participate by speaker telephone. Any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) / 1-800-955-8770 (Voice), for aid in contacting the District Manager’s Office.

Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the public hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record of proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based.

Venessa Ripoll District Manager

June 22, 29, 2023 23-00151F

The house at 1405 Lilly Anne Lane has 3,270 square feet of living space.

The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Town Center at Palm Coast Community Development District (“the District”) will hold a Public Hearing on Friday, July 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., at Hilton Garden Inn Palm Coast Town Center, 55 Town Center Boulevard, Palm Coast, FL 32164. The purpose of the Public Hearing will be held pursuant to Chapter 190, Florida Statutes, to hear comments and objections on the adoption of the budgets of the District for Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2023 and ending September 30, 2024 (“Fiscal Year 2023/2024”). A regular Board meeting of the District will also be held at that time at which the Board may consider any other business that may properly come before it.

A copy of the agenda and budget may be obtained at the Office of the District Manager, Inframark Community Management Services, 210 North University Drive, Suite 702, Coral Springs, Florida 33071, during normal business hours. In accordance with Section 189.016, Florida Statutes, the proposed budget will be posted on the District’s website at www.towncenteratpalmcoast.org at least two (2) days before the Public Hearing date.

The Public Hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida Law for Community Development Districts. The Public Hearing and meeting may be continued to a date, time, and location to be specified on the record at the Hearing or meeting without additional publication of notice.

Description of Assessments

The District imposes special assessments on your property, the purpose of which is to fund the District’s general administrative and maintenance budget, and to provide the funds necessary to pay debt service on outstanding bonds as reflected in the District’s debt service budget. The budget is adopted each year after consideration by the Board and after a public hearing. This year the District will be collecting the assessments for operations and maintenance and debt service on the Flagler County Tax Bill.

All benefited lands within the District pay these assessments, including undeveloped and developed lands. Lands within the District are assigned units of measurement in accordance with their use. Platted residential lots are considered to contain one (1) residential unit. Unplatted residential lands and non-residential lands including commercial lands are assigned units in accordance with the District’s assessment methodology on file at the offices of the District Manager. The table below contains the proposed assessment rate for each of the different product types within the District.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 18-2022-CA-000185 NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF MARIANO TORRISI SR A/K/A MARIANO TORRISE, DECEASED, et al.

will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at https://flagler.realforeclose.com,

The assessment against each parcel is the total of the units in each parcel multiplied by per unit assessments. The District expects to collect no more than $ 1,390,005 in gross revenue as a result of the operations and maintenance assessment, and $ 1,493,394 in gross revenue as a result of the debt service assessment.

You have the right to appear at this public hearing and express any objections, suggestions or comments you may have. You may also file written objections within twenty (20) days of the date of this Notice at the office of the District Manager, Inframark Community Management Services, 210 North University Drive, Suite 702, Coral Springs, Florida 33071, Attention: Robert Koncar. By operation of law, the District’s assessments each year constitutes a lien against your property located within the District just as do each year’s property taxes. It is important to pay your assessments since failure to do so will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the property which may result in loss of title.

Additional Provisions

There may be occasions when staff or other individuals may participate via speaker telephone. Any person requiring special accommodations at this Hearing or meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at Ph: 954-6030033 during regular business hours at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the Hearing or meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service at 7-1-1 for aid in contacting the District Office. Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the Hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record of the proceedings and accordingly, the person may need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based.

Bob Koncar District Manager

DILLARD TURNER; JAMES KUYKENDALL; CARLYN KUYKENDALL; FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION are the Defendant(s). TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at https://flagler.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 AM, on July 28, 2023, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 3, OF BLOCK 47, OF PALM COAST, MAP OF PINE GROVE, SECTION 28, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 9, PAGE 51, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 21 PORT ROYAL DR, PALM COAST, FL 32164 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 in accordance with Florida Statutes, Section 45.031. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste D-305, Deland, FL 32724, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 14 day of June, 2023. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ,

Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 09, 2023, and entered in 18-2022CA-000185 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING is the Plaintiff and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF MARIANO TORRISI SR A/K/A MARIANO TORRISI, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF MARIANO JOHN TORRISI, JR., DECEASED; GIANNA TORRISI; LOGAN MUNSON, BY AND THROUGH HIS/ HER COURT APPOINTED GUARDIAN; SKYLEIGH RAE TORRISI, BY AND THROUGH HIS/HER COURT APPOINTED GUARDIAN; ROSEMARIE BROWN; STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; CLERK OF THE COURT OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA are the Defendant(s). TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File No.: 18-2023-CP-00219 XXXXXX IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER WALTERS, Deceased.

SECOND INSERTION

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2023 CP 000184 IN RE: ESTATE OF GUY VERNON LARSON Deceased.

The administration of the estate of GUY VERNON

are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, on Stephan C. Nikoloff, Esquire, of Greenberg Nikoloff, P.A., whose address is 1964 Bayshore Blvd., Dunedin, FL, 34698, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice in the Business Observer, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court on day of 6/14/2023. TOM BEXLEY CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER (SEAL) By: /s/ Amy Perez Deputy Clerk Greenberg Nikoloff, P.A. 1964 Bayshore Blvd., Suite A Dunedin, FL 34698 (727) 738-1100 June 22, 29, 2023 23-00087G

The administration of the estate of CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER WALTERS, deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell, Florida 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 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 June 15, 2023. Personal Representative: JUSTIN A. WALTERS 1700 Briar Ridge Road McLean, Virginia 22101

Attorney for Personal Representative: ELLEN L. REGNERY, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 863769 Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero, P.A.

15, 22, 2023 23-00082G

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE Seventh JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR Flagler COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2023 DR 000551 Division: 47 Luis M Rodrigues, Petitioner, and Maria De Lurdes Tomas Figueiredo Rodrigues Respondent, TO: Maria De Lurdes Tomas Figueiredo Rodrigues {Respondent’s last known address} Unknown YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on {name of Petitioner}, whose address is 13 Flemington Lane Palm Coast FL 32137 on or before 7/22/23, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 1769 E. Moody Blvd. Bldg 1 Bunnell, FL 32110 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: ____ Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: 06/09/23 CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) By: /s/ Deputy Clerk June 15, 22, 29; July 6, 2023 23-00081G

the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: 6/7/2023 CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL)

Items Under $200

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