Palm Coast Observer 05-09-24

Joe Wright (far left) and

Summa (second from the

McKenzie Manhart

Cole Walker

CITY WATCH

Begin now to prepare for busy hurricane season

May 5-11 is National Hurricane Preparedness Week and Palm Coast encourages its residents to educate themselves begin preparing for Hurricane Season, which begins on June 1. Experts from the Weather Company and Atmospheric G2 are forecasting an active 2024 Atlantic hurricane season due to various factors, such as the record warmth of the Atlantic Ocean in the past year and the likelihood of La Niña conditions, a Palm Coast press release said. They predict 24 named storms, with 11 becoming hurricanes and six reaching category 3 status or higher.

This is an increase compared to the 2023 season, which saw 20 storms, seven hurricanes, and three category 3 or higher hurricanes. Residents should understand the risks of tropical storms and hurricanes and prepare by stocking up on necessities, preparing their property and homes, and developing a plan in case of an evacuation order.

Throughout May 5-11, the city will be providing tips and resources to prepare for hurricane season.

Old Kings South widening moves ahead

The next phase of the Old Kings Road South expansion project is headed into a $4 million design phase.

In its May 7 meeting, the Palm Coast City Council approved a grant agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation to help fund the project’s design, but the FDOT grant will only cover $500,000.

Stormwater and Engineering Director Carl Cote said the needed $3.5 million in funding will come from multiple sources, including the Old Kings Road Special Assessment District and transportation impact fees.

The design plans will be for Phase 2 of the Old Kings Road South widening. Phase 2 begins at Palm Coast Parkway and ends at the Town Center Boulevard and Old Kings Road intersection, where Interstate 95 passes over Town Center Boulevard.

The project will also include a short strip of Town Center Boulevard, up to its T-intersection with Royal Palms Parkway.

“All I can say is, it’s about time,” Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin said.

“This … certainly has to be the oldest single passageway, pathway and now a road, in the history of our whole area.”

The Old Kings Road widening project has been ongoing for around 15 years, completed in small phases.

Most recently, the first phase of the Old Kings Road North widening was completed in 2021, stretching

0.3 miles north from Palm Coast Parkway to Kings Way and 0.3 miles south from Palm Coast Parkway to Utility Drive.

The expansive project is expensive, and Palm Coast has, over the years, routinely filed state legislative funding requests for it. In June 2023, Palm Coast received $18.3 million for Phase 2 of the Old Kings Road North widening project, and $500,000 for a traffic study along the southern section of the road.

While the new state budget still needs to be approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis, Palm Coast is tentatively set to receive almost $150 million in state funds this year — but none of that will help fund either leg of the Old Kings Road widening project.

The Old Kings Road South expansion will widen the road from a twolane to a four-lane road, requiring moving utilities, sidewalks and stormwater conveyance as it is built out.

Cote said Phase 1 of the Old Kings Road South project stretched from the Town Center Boulevard intersection to State Road 100. The entirety of Phase 2 is the remaining 3.5-mile section of Old Kings Road up to Palm Coast Parkway.

Phase 2 will likely need to be built in smaller phases, Cote said, because of the large scope of required work. Phase 2A is the 0.8-mile stretch of Old Kings Road from the Town Cen-

ter Boulevard-Royal Palms Parkway intersection to Old Kings Road South and New Water Oak Drive, according to meeting documents.

The design will analyze the intersections in the route, update designs, update permits and provide higherlevel plans for the first phase of the construction, Cote said. The work will also include putting together roughly 60% of plans for the following construction phase, in order to help secure additional permitting.

It will be over a year-long process that involves surveys, environmental work and permitting through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cote said.

The project will also include analyzing the stormwater conveyance system capacity along that stretch of Old Kings Road, including under I-95, he said.

“That [under I-95] is one of our pinch-points in our system that was identified in our stormwater master plan,” Cote said.

When the grant agreement is finalized, Cote said, the next step will be for staff to return with a scope and fee agreement for a consultant to complete the design. Staff is already in the process of negotiating a scopeand-fee agreement and could return with one for council’s approval as early as June, he said. Email sierra@observerlocalnews. com.

More notice for developments in the future

The Palm Coast City Council voted 4-0 to expand the neighborhood notice requirement for developers from 300 to 500 feet. Development applications like comprehensive plan amendments, rezonings and tier 2 and 3 applications — nonresidential projects over 40,000 square feet and residential projects over 41 residential units — are required to send a notice to the neighborhoods within a certain distance of the property’s borders and host neighborhood meetings.

The expansion from 300 to 500 feet means more residents will be notified of an impending development in their area. The council approved the change in its May 7 meeting.

“In summary,” Mayor David Alfin said, “we are expanding the radius and being more inclusive of those that would be in proximity to projects in the future so we don’t overlook someone that might be directly affected.”

For subdivisions neighboring a future development, the notification requirement only extends to those individual properties within the 500 foot radius, not the whole subdivision, Deputy Chief Development Officer Ray Tyner.

But, Tyner said, the ordinance change is just “one tool in the toolbox” for notifying residents of pending projects in their area, including legal advertisements and signs at the development lots themselves that have the neighborhood meeting information.

Phase 2 of the Old Kings Road South widening project. City Council documents

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

‘Everything was taken away from me’

Victim Joan Naydich testifies in sentencing hearing for Brendan Depa

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

At the first day of the sentencing hearing for the former Matanzas High School student who attacked a paraprofessional, the judge heard from victim Joan Naydich for the first time.

“I’m just not the same person that I was,” Naydich said. “…Everything was taken away from me that morning at 10 o’clock.”

Brendan Depa, 18, is facing up to 30 years in prison for his February 2023 attack on former Matanzas paraprofessional Naydich. The sentencing hearing on May 1 at the Flagler County Courthouse covered the prosecution’s witness list, which included several mental health experts, the student resource deputy who responded to the attack and testimony from Naydich.

Because of the number of witnesses and expert testimony called in, the hearing had to be continued to a second day, which has yet to be announced. The defense still needs to present its witnesses, before Circuit Judge Terrance Perkins hears final arguments from both parties and makes his decision.

“I have no intention in rushing this case,” Perkins said.

When asked what she thought about the sentencing, Naydich said she hopes Perkins will follow the guidelines before him, and “not give in to pressure.” She said Depa made the choice to come after her that day.

“I think that Brendan should pay for what he did,” she said. “There are consequences in life to bad actions, bad choices.”

Depa was 17 at the time of incident and charged as an adult with aggravated battery on an educational employee.

Depa has autism. He has also been diagnosed with several other disorders, including intermittent explosive disorder.

He underwent a competency hearing in March 2023, where Perkins found him competent to stand trail. The 18-year-old then entered an open plea in October, leaving sentencing in the hands of the judge. Depa’s sentencing could range from 30 years to juvenile sanctions.

At the end of the hearing Perkins asked one of the state’s witnesses, Dr. Greg Prichard, a licensed, private-practice psychologist who interviewed Depa, how much of Depa’s actions on Feb. 21, 2023, were intentional versus the manifestation of his disabilities.

It was hard to say, Prichard said. While Depa tends to be reactive, Prichard said, and the incident was a manifestation of his anger, Prichard said he believes Depa has the capacity to control his temper.

“I think he has some control, certainly more control that he showed in that particular circumstance,” Prichard said.

‘THIS IS WHAT I HAVE TO LIVE WITH’

The sentencing hearing was the first time Naydich was able to take the stand and answer questions about the Feb. 21 incident. Naydich, an employee with Flagler Schools for almost 19 years, said she doesn’t remember the attack.

“My last memory is putting my hand on the doorknob [to leave the classroom],” she said.

Naydich told the prosecutor, Assistant State Attorney Melissa Clark, that the attack left her with five broken ribs — three of which were broken twice over — as well as a concussion, hearing loss, vision loss, vestibular problems, rotator cuff issues and a herniated disk.

Over a year later, she still has trouble with her memory, Naydich said, and the hearing and vision losses are likely to be permanent. Before the attack, Naydich’s hearing was at 50% loss in her left ear and 20% in her right from her bout of radiation treatment for cancer some years before.

After the attack, she said, her left ear is at a 90% loss and 50-60% loss in her right ear. The vision in her left eye has problems with clarity, seeing out of her peripherals and has black spots that her doctors call “floaters,” she said. She frequently has bouts of dizziness and headaches.

On top of the ongoing physical medical issues, Naydich said she has been diagnosed with PTSD: She has a hard time being in crowded spaces, she said, and can’t have people behind her. She’ll experience panic attacks out of nowhere, she said, describing one instance that lasted six hours.

“This is what I have to live with,” she said.

Naydich had worked in the cafeteria for 17 years before completing the training she needed to become a paraprofessional, and February 2023 was her second year in the position, she said. That year she was assigned as Depa’s paraprofessional.

The day had started normally, with Depa arriving at school from his group home around 7:40 a.m. The classroom Depa was in was a selfcontained class, Naydich said, which meant the students in the class had almost all periods within the classroom, even eating meals in the room.

Depa, she said, had one class that he attended with other students, for second period, beginning around 8:45 a.m. That day, a substitute was teaching that class.

Naydich said that Depa had taken his game system out to play with, and the substitute had Naydich ask Depa to put the game away. She said he did put it away, but brought it back out toward the end of the class. At that time, she decided to take Depa back to his normal classroom early, instead of asking him to put it away again.

“That day was not the first day there had been issue with it. It was just like, a culmination of issues with it,” she said. “It became a distraction.”

Back in the self-contained class,

Naydich spoke to the teacher about Depa not having the game system in with the general education classes. That teacher brought up the game system issue with Depa, and Naydich said that’s when he became “riled, angry and upset.”

Naydich said she did not take the game from him, or even talk to him about it in the classroom. She said she remembers him screaming “nasty names” at her. So she grabbed her things and decided to leave the classroom. As she was leaving, she said Depa spit all over her.

That’s when she left the room, she said.

Depa’s actions, Naydich said, have cost her her job, her financial security, her health insurance and the ability to take care of herself.

“My life will never be what it was,” she said.

DEPA’S IEP WAS NOT AVAILABLE TO VICTIM

Depa’s attorney, Kurt Teifke, asked Naydich if infomration about Depa’s multiple disabilities and disorders had been made available to her in her position as a paraprofessional.

Depa has been diagnosed with several disabilities and disorders, several of which are behavioral disorders.

According to Naydich, she was not made aware of Depa’s conditions. Naydich said it likely would have been up to the teacher to share the details of a student’s conditions with her.

As a paraprofessional, she said, her job was to help with whatever the teacher asked of her, though she was specifically assigned to Depa.

Teifke said Depa’s individualized education plan — called an IEP — outlined Depa’s disabilities, his triggers and even preventative strategies to avoid or deescalate situations if Depa began to get worked up.

“I was under the presumption that being a para I was not — that that access not readily available to me,” she said.

During his turn questioning Naydich, Teifke’s questions were geared toward asking Naydich if she was aware of any of the information outline on Depa’s IEP and, if she had been aware of it, did she believe having that information could have changed the outcome of that day.

“We could ‘if’s’ all day long,” she said. “He did comply and there were no issues until 10 o’clock in the morning.”

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN A STATE FACILITY

If Perkins decides to sentence Depa to a state facility, Depa would have access to the mental health services he needed, Clark argued.

One of the two expert witnesses she brought in was Dr. Suzone Kline, Department of Corrections chief of Mental Health Services in Tallahassee. Kline said every inmate is evaluated at an intake center and undergoes a comprehensive psychological assessment.

“It’s a full cadre of psychological tools,” Kline said. “And the goal of that tool is to assign the inmate an ‘S grade.’”

The S grade details what level of mental health services an inmate

needs, from S1-S3 being inpatient care at the jail while S4-S6 would mean the inmate is housed at a psychiatric facility, Kline said.

Based on Depa’s history and previous diagnoses, she said, he would almost certainly end up receiving some level of mental health care.

“We treat intellectual disabilities or we manage neurodevelopmental disorders,” she said. “… The goal is to treat all of [the symptoms] together, along with whatever criminal thinking led to incarceration, so that we can decrease their risk of recidivism.”

Clark’s other expert witness, Prichard, interviewed Depa. From Prichard’s interviews with Depa, he said he agreed Depa has autism and intermittent explosive disorder and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.

“His kind of rage response, his anger response is very extreme,” Prichard said.

Despite diagnosing Depa with intermittent explosive disorder, Prichard said he also believed Depa was capable of controlling his anger, citing there were no incidents at Matanzas High School in the previous school year or months leading up to the attack on Naydich.

“I do think he understands right from wrong,” he said. In their interviews, Prichard said, Depa did not take responsibility for his actions, at most agreeing that there were things both he and Naydich could have done differently that day.

But, Teifke argued, one of the hallmarks of intermittent explosive disorder is “grossly disproportionate response to a perceived threat.”

Prichard agreed.

“Essentially, it’s a reaction to something that the person is perceiving that is an excessive reaction,” Prichard said.

The attack, he said, could have been a manifestation of any one of Depa’s behavioral abilities. Teifke pointed out that Prichard’s report recommended Depa be in an environment where he can be managed.

“He needs to be managed well. It needs to be rules enforced, clear indication of what the rules are, clear indication of what the consequences are for breaking those rules,” Prichard said. “So whatever environment that may be.”

"I

think that Brendan should pay for what he did. There are consequences in life to bad actions, bad choices."

JOAN

NAYDICH, victim

Former Matanzas paraprofessional Joan Naydich. Photos by Sierra Williams

Brendan Depa at his May 1 sentencing hearing, with his attorneys Kurt Teifke (right) and Maria Bosley (left).

Assistant State Attorney Melissa Clark holds up photos of Naydich’s injuries.

BRIEFS

Two county judges retain seats in unopposed election bids

Flagler County Court Judge Melissa Distler will serve another six-year term after running unopposed in the 2024 election.

Distler was the only candidate who filed by the April 22 deadline for the County Court Judge, Group 1 seat, and therefore automatically won the seat for the next term.

Circuit Judge Christopher France also ran unopposed for reelection in his group — Group 8 — and will serve another six years as well.

Distler was first elected to the Flagler County bench in 2013, and currently presides over the county criminal and juvenile delinquency dockets at the Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, according to information on the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court website.

France presides over family law and civil cases, the website said, and was appointed to the bench in 2016.

Circuit Judge Terence Perkins announced in April that he is retiring from the bench effective Sept. 30. Because his retirement takes effect outside of the election period, his position will be filled with an appointment by Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Seventh Judicial Circuit press release said.

Perkins was elected as a circuit judge in Flagler County in 2012 and again in 2018.

Community advocate Daisy Henry dies

‘She was a warrior for people and for causes,’ Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson said.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Pastor Daisy Henry, a former Bunnell city commissioner and a longtime community advocate, died on May 3.

“She was just like the matriarch in this area,” said G.W. Carver Foundation President Taahira Lee. “She was a voice overall for the community, highly respected. She always advocated for what was right and for change for the better of the community.”

Henry, 77, was born and raised in Bunnell and attended the segregated George Washington Carver School. She was the founder of Sprit to Truth Outreach Ministries and one of the founders of the Alliance Of Involved Ministers. Through AIM, she ran a summer camp at the G.W. Carver Community Center.

“She takes the kids on field trips, they go to museums, and they do recreational and educational stuff at the Carver Center,” Lee said.

Henry served on the Bunnell City Commission for 14

years.

“She was a very busy lady,” said Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson, who served on the commission with Henry. “She

“She was just like the matriarch in this area. She was a voice overall for the community, highly respected. She always advocated for what was right and for change for the better of the community.”

TAAHIRA

LEE, G.W. Carver Foundation president

Faith in Flagler

Building faith strengthens our community.

“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”

Faith in Flagler submissions can be sent to Brian@ observerlocalnews.com.

The Bible also says even demons believe and shudder. Satan was also a believer, and where did that get him?

What we need is faith, not just belief Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ — our redeemer, our propitiation for our sins is what gives us eternal life.

Brought to you by:

Ted Dudak, Pastor

was a warrior for people and for causes.”

Robinson said Henry was missed at Bunnell’s annual National Day of Prayer celebration on Thursday, May 2.

“She was sick in the hospital, then she came out. It was so sad hearing the news today,” Robinson said on Saturday, May 4.

Jearlyn Dennie of Jearlyn Ministries and Reverse Church said Henry was one of the first people she met when she moved to Flagler County 15 years ago.

“She was just a force to be reckoned with,” Dennie said.

“She advocated for families and students all her life. She started a prison ministry at the county jail.”

Afer she lost re-election to the commission by a handful of votes in 2013, Henry continued attending meetings and speaking during public comment and frequently opening the meetings in prayer, Robinson said.

“She was always active. She was always in attendance at city commission meetings,” Bunnell City Manager Alvin Jackson said. “If there were issues, she would bring them up, many things that we were not aware of. She had a great love for Bunnell. She wanted to see South Bunnell be a productive part of the community.”

Jackson has been Bunnell’s city manager for less than six years. He and Dennie said Henry welcomed them with open arms when they each moved to the community.

“When I first started ministering, I felt like I was met with a little pushback from the community,” Dennie said. “Pastor Daisy said just keep showing up. When they keep seeing your face and seeing you’re serious, they’ll accept you.”

Jackson said Henry helped him get acclimated to his new position and new community.

“She was full of knowledge and was able to help me understand the history of the community and some of the challenges I’d be facing,” he said.

Henry was recently named as one of 50 women in the state to be honored for their Christian leadership by She Leads Florida, Dennie said.

“She was a historic person in the county, a real positive force,” County Commissioner David Sullivan said.

“She has touched my life, influenced me, and she was so humble,” Dennie said. “If there’s a board in heaven she’s on it, advocating, trying to get somebody to do something to help somebody.”

Stephenson, Wilcox

County Judge Melissa Distler. Courtesy of the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court website

Pastor Daisy Henry leads a prayer on Jan. 13, 2024 at the George Washington Carver Community Center as part of Bunnell’s annual MLK Celebration. Photo by Brent Woronoff

Suitor emerges for Belle Terre SRC

Flagler Fluid swim club offered to rent the facility and market it for student use while keeping it open to the public during school.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Flagler Fluid Swimming would like to take over operations of the Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club.

Carrie Purdy, owner and coach of Flagler Fluid swim club, spoke to the Flagler County School Board during public comments at the board’s workshop on May 7, offering to run the facility. The nonprofit would provide swim lessons and after-school programs for students and also offer gym memberships and swim programs for adults during school hours, she said.

The School Board voted 3-2 to discontinue public gym and pool memberships at the facility at the end of June. After its contracts run out with insurance companies that provide gym use for their customers, the board plans to close the gym and maintain the pool for student use and rentals. Currently, Flagler Fluid and the Synchro Belles artistic swimming club rent the pool.

Flagler Fluid wants to flip the model and rent the entire

BRIEFS

Army Corps awards contract for beach project

The $27 million contract for the Flagler County-U.S. Army Corps of Engineers renourishment project has been awarded to the construction company Weeks Marine,Inc., out of Cranford, New Jersey.

The Corps will be covering 65% of the total project costs while Flagler County will fund the remaining 35% for the renourishment of 2.6 miles of eroded county shoreline, a Flagler County press release said, from South Sixth Street to South 28th Street in Flagler Beach. The contract was awarded on May 2.

Flagler County has worked with USACE to renourish additional stretches of shoreline in the county, using non-federal funding. With the extra work, a total of 3.5 miles of shoreline will be renourished, the press release said.

Construction will begin in June and will take place 24 hours a day, seven days a week with and is expected to be complete in March 2025.

Staging and beach access points located at Veterans Park, Sixth Street South, and to the south of the Pebble Beach Homeowners Associa-

facility from the School Board.

“I believe in honoring that facility for (the purpose) it was given to (the school district),”

Purdy said during an interview with the Observer

Purdy said she had briefly discussed the possibility with School Board Chair Will Furry and emailed the entire board with a proposal before she spoke at the workshop, but she had not yet received a reply. By policy, board members are not allowed to respond to speakers during public comment time.

Speaking to the Observer , Purdy said Flagler Fluid would propose a five-year contract, paying rent on a sliding scale.

The club would pay 20% of the facility’s operation costs the first year and increase its payment by 20% each year until it pays 100% by year five.

“The whole point of it is so they’re not paying it,” Purdy said. “They have been in the red for so long, it will need some time to get dug out.”

Purdy said Flagler Fluid would not have just one manager at the facility and would not pay an outside pool company. They would maintain the pool themselves.

“There would be budget eliminations with us leasing it,” she said. It would be a student-first facility, Purdy said. She discussed adding programs for students such as an afterschool weight-lifting program for middle-school stu-

tion beachfront property, the press release said. The project is a federally authorized, 50-year project that will restore the dunes to pre-Hurricane Matthew dimensions. Any emergency beach renourishment needed following significant storms will be repaired at 100% federal cost, a USACE press release said, and every 11 years the USACE will inspect for needed renourishment, depending on storm impact. Approximately 1.3 million cubic yards of dredged sand will be placed on the shoreline, the USACE press release said.

Flagler County receives 15th consecutive award for budget

Flagler County has received its 14th and 15th consecutive awards for the quality of its budget presentations.

Financial Services Director John Brower said the award for the 2022-2023 fiscal years was the first time the county had also received special recognition for its Capital program, the press release said. The 2023-2024 fiscal year also received special recognition for its Strategic Goals and Strategies, he said, another first.

dents and moving out some of the gym equipment to create more space for student use.

“We want to offer plenty of swim lessons in the summer,” she said.

During school hours, they would open the facility for adult aqua aerobics.

“We would like to see it marketed to students more for after-school programs and still see some kind of community membership open during the day when school hours are in,” she said.

Purdy said the organization’s end-goal “is to get a 50-meter pool built to benefit both high schools’ (swim teams) and the program.”

She said she would like to see the proposal added to the School Board’s May 21 business meeting agenda, so that Flagler Fluid could begin to lease the facility on July 1, the beginning of the fiscal year. But that would seem overly optimistic considering the May 21 agenda was put in place for the May 7 workshop.

“Right now I think it’s a good opportunity to keep (the Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club) open and use it properly,” Purdy said. “They seem to keep stating that this is a crutch, but I think it’s a blessing. They say no other school district has this facility. Exactly. We’re not utilizing the benefits it can create.”

Email brent@observer localnews.com.

Brower credited staff for putting the presentations together, including: Office of Management and Budget Analysts Michael Catalano, Brandy Allen, and Dan Nicholas; Senior Office of Management and Budget Analyst Amanda Gilbert; Office of Management and Budget Manager Brian Eichinger; and, Audio Video Production Coordinator Carlos Hernandez.

Citizens Academy graduates 22 in 55th session

Twenty-two Palm Coast residents graduated from the 55th session of the city Citizens Academy: Ellen Bell, Robert Bonnell, Don Brown, Teresa Browne, Gail Danhoff, Edward Fuller, Nina Guiglotto, Paulette Hatfield, Gordon Heritage, Angelo Ippolito, Edward Lang, Jeff LaPointe, Jim Mutchie, Jolanta Nowak, Eli Rodriguez, Charles Rowsell, Patty Schuman, Donna Stancel, Mark Stancel, Sam Smith, Robert Strunk, and Jefferey Uzcategui.

The residents were presented certificates of completion at the May 7 City Council meeting by Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. The course is one class per week over seven weeks, about each city department.

Tourism department will advertise dining, rather than recreation. Plus, a focus on our northern beaches.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

County tourism advertisement efforts will focus on ocean-view dining instead of beach recreation at Flagler Beach because of the oncoming beach restoration projects.

Tourism Director Amy Lukasik told the Flagler County Commission at its May 6 meeting that promoting ocean-view dining is part of the county Tourism Development Office’s upcoming advertisement strategy while the beaches are undergoing the U.S. Army Corps restoration project. That strategy also includes focusing on the county’s northern beaches, she said.

“So for any recreational beach activity, we are going to promote — we did some scouting last week of the River to Sea [Preserve], Bay Drive Park, Varn Park,” Lukasik said. The strategy will also promote eco-tourism in the county, she said, including the county’s new pedestrian bridge.

County Commissioner David Sullivan said some of the feedback the county has received from residents is that the county needs to spread the word on its “six secret beaches” to visitors.

“There are other beaches besides downtown Flagler Beach where they go to the beach in the county,” Sullivan said.

Commissioner Greg Hansen suggested the county needs to add more signage near the intersection of State Road A1A and State Road 100 to advertise where the other parks are. He said he talked to Scenic A1A Pride — a local nonprofit focused on preserving the scenic byway — about it and the group is considering coming to the Tourism Development Office about it.

“Just name the beaches and how close they are going north,” Hansen said. “So as you came across [the bridge], you go, ‘Oh, there’s more this way.’” Lukasik shared the information as part of an annual update on the county’s tourism efforts. In 2023, the county had around 975,900 visitors, generating over $96 million in accommodation sales, an 8% increase over 2023, she said.

The tourism department is funded exclusively through the Tourist Development Tax, Lukasik said, known as the “bed tax.” Under Florida State Statute, a 5% tax is collected on all accommodations sales

in the county that are rented for less than six months.

In 2023, the county collected $4.5 million in taxes from the bed tax alone. Chain hotels generated 37% of that bed tax, Lukasik said, while single-family and bed and breakfast accommodations generated 27%.

She said the hotels and resorts had a 59.7% occupancy; vacation rentals — like AirBnBs — were at a 56% occupancy. The report the county pulled this data from do not include small, momand-pop motels and campgrounds, she said.

Over the last several years, Lukasik said, the amount of bed tax the county has received — and therefore the number of sold accommodations — has steadily increased. According to the data Lukasik presented, the county received $2.7 million in bed tax in 2018.

“You can see our numbers have been steadily rising,” she said. “That’s pretty impressive because if you think about it, we have not added a hotel to our community since 2008.”

In 2023, the county had around 975,900 visitors. File photo

CRIME REPORT

Ormond woman arrested after she tried to stab her ex An Ormond Beach woman was arrested in Flagler County after deputies say she broke into her exhusband’s home and tried to stab him in his sleep.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reports that 40-year-old Melinda Gould called 911 just after 2:40 a.m. on Friday, April 26, to request a wellness check on her ex-husband’s home in Bunnell. She told the 911 operator that “she had just woken up from a nightmare in which she heard gunshots at his residence where her children were staying,” according to a press release. When a deputy arrived at the home, he observed no suspicious behavior. He called the woman back and reported this, to which she responded with profanity.

Then, at 3:48 a.m., deputies responded to the home once again after receiving a second 911 call — this one from a woman claiming that her ex-husband’s wife had broken into their home, stood over their

COPS CORNER

APRIL 21

ANGERED AND FLARED UP

11:46 p.m. — 1500 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach

Aggravated assault with a weapon. Police arrested a 32-year-old Daytona Beach man who fired a flare gun into the parking lot of a local big box store, asking to be let in despite the store having closed. The man was detained by police upon officers’ arrival. He told police that he had shot the flare gun for help, but later changed his story and said “everyone else in the area agreed to shoot the flare gun with him” according to his arrest report. He also made claims about his vehicle and identity being stolen, which the reporting officer noted

bed while they were sleeping and attempted to stab him.

When deputies arrived, Gould was being held to the floor by her ex-husband, according to the press release. A fillet knife was found nearby.

The FCSO reports that, after receiving a call about her ex-husband’s wellbeing, Gould attempted to buy a gun from a man she saw across the street to kill her husband. Because she couldn’t obtain the gun, she grabbed a knife from the couple’s kitchen under the guise of checking in on her children.

She was arrested for aggravated assault, armed burglary of a dwelling/structure, and two counts of child abuse mental injury. She as also charged with trespassing after a warning, after she was previously trespassed from the home in October 2022.

Once in the Flagler County jail, the FCSO reports she was involved in a physical altercation with an inmate.

Gould is being held without bond. She was previously arrested in 2023 for trespassing and in 2022 for battery on a law enforcement officer or EMT.

didn’t make much sense.

A witness told police she saw the man lying down with another guy in the parking lot when she walked outside to meet her friends, whom she was speaking to when the man stood up and shot his flare gun. She notified a store employee, who informed the man that the store had closed about 30 minutes prior. The employee told police the man was “out of it and smoking and drinking,” the report states. He was taken to jail.

MAY 1

UNWANTED VISITOR

3:58 p.m. — 1200 block Vanderbilt Drive, Ormond Beach Indecent exposure. An Ormond Beach resident was sitting inside her home, holding her child, when she heard the side door open. When she headed to the kitchen to investigate, she spotted an unknown man urinating on her patio.

Palm Coast man charged with elderly abuse, deputies say he hit his grandfather

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Palm Coast man on May 1 on elderly abuse and battery charges after deputies say he hit his 91-year-old grandfather.

The man, Brandon Valentine, 41, lives with his grandparents in Palm Coast’s W Section. On April 14, the Sheriff’s Office received a report that Valentine had struck his grandfather an FCSO press release said.

Both parties initially gave conflicting reports and there were no observable injuries on the victim and the video deputies had of the incident was unusable, the press release said. Valentine told deputies he would send a better quality video that he said would clear him of any wrongdoing.

The Department of Children and Families received reports of abuse from the victim’s daughter, who lives out of state. FCSO deputies then received the video footage from Valentine of the April 14 incident, showing him lunging at the victim.

Police report that the suspect arrived to the home in a black pickup truck. The woman, according to the police report, said he appeared to be stumbling. She told police that she had left the side door open for her husband. She suspected the man to be the prior residents’ boss; the residents did not leave the property on good terms, according to the police report.

She wished to pursue charges.

MAY 2 FIVE STRIKES

7:50 p.m. — 2200 block of State Road 100, Flagler Beach Disorderly conduct. A Flagler Beach homeless man was arrested for disorderly conduct after being trespassed from five different locations. The incidents started with the man being trespassed from a gas station at 1:41 a.m. after banging drunkenly on the windows. Later in the day, police officers trespassed

BRIEFS

I-95 crash in Ormond Beach kills

Palm Coast woman, toddler

A 38-year-old Palm Coast woman and a 2-year-old girl died after a crash on Interstate 95 in Ormond Beach on Monday, May 6. Florida Highway Patrol reports that the woman was driving northbound in a vehicle with the toddler and a 20-year-old Palm Coast woman when she lost control of her sedan at around 3:42 p.m. near mile marker 272, close to the I-95 and U.S. 1 exit in Ormond Beach.

The woman, who was traveling on the left lane, over-corrected right, causing her to rotate and collide with a sedan driven by a 33-year-old Kissimmee woman. After the initial impact, FHP reports, the Palm Coast woman’s sedan continued rotating, leading to a collision with a pickup truck, driven by a 59-year-old Palm Coast man.

The drivers of the other two vehicles involved were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries.

The Palm Coast woman driving the sedan was pronounced dead

the man from a restaurant on the Flagler Beach pier and the pier and boardwalk after the man harassed beachgoers and customers, the suspect’s arrest report said.

At 6:10 p.m., an officer was then called to a different gas station where the man was fighting with another homeless man. By the time the officer got there, the fighting had ended and the suspect was trespassed from there as well. Within an hour, the suspect went to two more stores — one of which trespassed him — and then to a nearby park, where he was drinking a bottle of vodka and stomping around, yelling profanities. After almost a full day of interactions with police, the suspect was arrested.

MAY 4

DATE NIGHT OUT

6:10 p.m. — 5100 block of State Road 100, Palm Coast Shoplifting. A couple was arrested

at the scene, according to FHP. Her 20-year-old and 2-year-old passengers were transported to hospitals, where the toddler was pronounced dead.

Victim injured in Flagler Beach shooting; no

arrests have been made

A shooting occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, in the 400 block of South Flagler Avenue in Flagler Beach. A victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect fled the scene, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reported on its Facebook page.

No arrests have been made, the Flagler Beach Police Department reported early Monday morning. FCSO deputies and investigators and officers from the Flagler Beach Police were working together investigating the incident.

South Flagler Avenue from the Flagler Beach Fire Department to South Seventh Street was closed late into the night on May 5. It was reopened at 12:35 Monday morning.

for attempting to steal $86.64 of merchandise while out at a department store.

Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the department store when a loss prevention officer spotted two individuals, one of whom had stolen from the store in the past, according to an arrest report. Deputies found the man in his car in the store parking lot while the woman was found in the bathroom.

A deputy called out to the female suspect while she was in the bathroom and, after the suspect left the bathroom, the deputy checked the bathroom trash cans and found a smart TV remote, a tanning glove and a bottle of lubricant. Security footage showed the male suspect watching the woman place the items in her purse, the report said. Despite the man just watching the woman place the items in her bag, both suspects were charged with retail theft.

Take Stock graduates 21 Flagler seniors

FPC’s Amalie “Molly” Maniscalchi was named Take Stock’s Outstanding Senior.

OBSERVER STAFF

The Flagler County Education Foundation celebrated 21 Take Stock in Children graduating seniors at its annual Take Stock in Children Senior Dinner on May 2 at the Palm Coast Community Center. Take Stock in Children is a nonprofit organization that offers underserved high school students one-on-one support through volunteer mentors, professional college success services and the opportunity to earn a college scholarship. The Ed Foundation facilitates the program in Flagler County.

Amalie “Molly” Maniscalchi, of Flagler Palm Coast High School, won Flagler County’s Take Stock in Children Outstanding Senior Award. Maniscalchi and her mentor, Sally Winkler, have remained in the top three for mentor sessions. Maniscalchi has attended every Take Stock college tour and workshop.

Local Take Stock in Children supporters Brian and Jacki Unger announced that they are providing each graduating senior an extra $500 toward college expenses such as meal plans, dorm supplies or a laptop. Brian Unger called it the three L’s: laptop, lunch and lodging. Here are Maniscalchi’s answers to questions when she was nominated for Outstanding Senior:

Where are you planning to attend college/major in?

I am planning on attending either Stetson University or

University of North Florida. ... I’m planning on going into Biochemistry.

High School Activities and Community Service?

My high school and community service activities consisted of Student Government Association, Yearbook Club, Yearbook Palooza, Flagler Palm Coast Friends for All Abilities, Calvary Church of Palm Coast and Ormond Beach Dream Team Leader, Christmas Come True, and Flagler County Public Library Volunteer.

Career Goals?

My career goal after high school is to graduate and attend college and receive a PhD.

As a Take Stock High School Senior, what advice would you give to the incoming Take Stock students?

My advice to the incoming Take Stock students is to make sure you stay involved. Attend as many events as possible that the program is running and make sure to build as many strong relationships as possible. I have built tons of friendships and relationships with my peers within

the Take Stock Program and I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity.

What does Take Stock mean to you?

A Take Stock Senior means to me that you have completed this important chapter in your life. This is a huge accomplishment in your life and you should appreciate everything life has given you. High School wasn’t always easy for me, but making the best out of it, is the best decision you can make.

What is the biggest lesson learned from your mentor?

This question means so much to me and I am so happy to have this opportunity to answer this question. The biggest lesson I have learned from my mentor, Sally Winkler, is that everything is going to be OK. She has been with me from the start of my Take Stock journey and has taught me so many valuable lessons. Sally has shaped me into the person I am today and I couldn’t be more thankful for that. She has been with me through my ups and downs in high school and has never failed to remind me to look at the positives through any situation. I have grown so much by meeting with her weekly and she is the reminder in my life that everything is going to be OK. Everybody needs that reminder in their life and I’m so glad I have encountered that through her.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years?

I am excited to see what life brings in my way in the next twenty years. I am planning on having a family with multiple children that grow up strong. I see myself as successful and enjoying life just the way I always imagined it.

BIZ BUZZ

VCS STUDENTS TO GET WATERPARK TICKETS FOR READING BOOKS

Volusia County Schools is rewarding 1,520 students who completed 600 minutes of reading in March with a Daytona Lagoon Waterpark general admission ticket, plus a companion pass. In addition, 350 students met a goal of 400 minutes to receive a $20 Fun Card.

This is the first year that Daytona Lagoon partnered with Volusia County Schools to provide the prize incentives.

“Thank you all so much for supporting the students,” said Heather Norris, ELA K-12 coordinator for Volusia County Schools. “I’m sure the increase in reading was due to having such awesome prizes. Some teachers were telling us how they couldn’t wait to get their minutes so they could enjoy the waterpark. One of our tutoring sites sent me a picture when a student reached her minutes and she was beaming.”

More than 3,000 residents will receive free admission to Daytona Lagoon.

“We are thrilled to be able to entertain families that are in our backyards, and the reading incentive program not only helps children develop good reading habits, but it gives local families opportunities to visit us when they may not have had a chance to otherwise,” said Tyler Currie, general manager of Daytona Lagoon.

DAB BEGINS RUNWAY LIGHTING PROJECT

A major electrical upgrade project designed to improve the safety and sustainability of the primary runway at Daytona Beach International Airport began May 6 and is expected to

last 30 days. The project involves replacing existing incandescent lights with LED lights. In addition to the safety benefits of brighter lighting, LED bulbs use between 75% and 90% less energy and have a longer life expectancy than incandescent or quartz lights. The project will also replace 82,000 feet of wiring that provides power to the edge lights.

“The runway edge lighting project has a relatively short construction period but will have long-lasting positive impacts for airport safety,” Airport Director Karen Feaster said.

During the project, the main runway, 7L/25R, will be shut down; runway 16/34 will be available during the closure.

Neighbors of the airport may notice a change in flight patterns and an increase in northsouth flight traffic during the closure. For two weeks of the project, night work will close both runways from midnight to 5 a.m. During this time, the airport will complete other necessary maintenance to the runway, including markings, pressure washing, painting, mowing and torque testing.

“This upgrade will vastly enhance airfield safety and reliability while concurrently reducing the required labor hours to maintain the current system,” Feaster said.

The closure will have minimal impacts on commercial airline operations and will affect flight patterns. The FAA is funding 90% of the project, with the airport and Florida Department of Transportation splitting the remaining 10%.

ORMOND BEACH DOCTOR WINS HUMANITARIAN AWARD

The American College of Radiology Foundation presented its 2024 Global Humanitarian Award on April 14, to Dr. Boyd Nicholas Hatton at ACR 2024,

the college’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C.

“Dr. Hatton’s vision to bring a U.S. standard of care to rural Kenya and his contributions to help patients obtain life-saving radiological services at no cost represents the very best of our profession,” said Dr. Jacqueline Bello, chair of the American College of Radiology board of chancellors.

Since 2021, Hatton, of Ormond Beach has worked with the Kilimanjaro Mission Hospital to improve imaging services. He serves as the director of radiology both on-site and remotely throughout the year. He installed a picture archiving and communication system for imaging studies and frequently consults on challenging cases from the U.S. Hatton also selected, sourced and negotiated for new ultrasound and digital x-ray units for the hospital.

During KMH-hosted outreach clinics, all are treated at no charge. These clinics care for an average 100 patients per day during each month-long mission, visiting a different village each day. Hatton performs point-of-care ultrasound exams during these clinics and teaches the techniques to medical students.

The ACR Foundation Global Humanitarian Award recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations and programs working to improve access to and equitable delivery of quality radiological services in low- and middle-income countries and in areas of need within more developed nations.

Selina Hernandez, the Ed Foundation’s assistant director for student services, and Amalie Maniscalchi. Courtesy photo

Dr. Boyd Nicholas Hatton. Courtesy photo

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

House in Island Estates sells for $3.35 million

Ahouse in Island Estates was the top real estate transaction for March 14-20 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. Daniel Palmerton and Stacy Marie Boone, of Bunnell, sold 138 Island Estates Parkway to Terrence Brian Holloway and Patricia Holloway, of Somers Point, New Jersey, for $3,350,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/4 and has a pool, an exercise room, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, a library and 4,135 square feet.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos Fleming Properties, LLC., of Palm Coast, sold 102 Yacht Harbor Drive, Unit 168, to Shannon and Victor Lupis, of Manorville, New York, for $409,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,570 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $220,000.

Barb Macdonald, of Flagler Beach, sold 220 South 26th Street, Unit 4, to Brenda Hartpence, of Flagler Beach, for $214,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/1 and has 747 square feet. It sold in 2003 for $138,000.

The Peter A. Cerreta and Marie A. Cerreta Declaration of Trust sold 85 Riverview Bend South, Unit 1514, to Siegfried Karl Brunnacker and Martina Tocci, of Palm Coast, for $279,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,283 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $185,000.

Robert and Andrea Karros, of Palm Coast, sold 1000 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 1031, to Donald Snyder Jr. and Mary Snyder, of Palm Coast, for $345,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,712 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $145,000.

David Harold Sr. and Shirley Lawson, of Huntington, West Virginia, sold 4600 East Moody Blvd., Unit 1B, to Samuel Bell and Patricia Love, of Bunnell, for $141,500. Built in 2005, the condo is a 1/1 and has 781 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $145,000.

PALM COAST

Indian Trails Doris Wilson, of Ponte Vedra, sold 57 Barkwood Lane to Jacob Wayne Shanafelt and Sidney Sunshine Smith, of Palm Coast, for $334,900. Built in 2021, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,721 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $254,900.

A house in Ormond-bythe-Sea tops sales list

Ahouse in Ormond-by-the-Sea was the top real estate transaction for March 24-30 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. Wei and Jane Chen, of Gainesville, sold 3672 John Anderson Drive to Don and Jennifer Johnson, of Ocala, for $1,250,000. Built in 1997, the 4/3.5 house has a sunroom, a guest suite and 3,485 square feet. It sold in 2002 for $755,000.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos Taylor Takoushian, of West Melbourne, sold 1575 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 407, to David Bloom and Shari Fiore-Bloom, of Shelby Township, Michigan, for $425,000. Built in 1974, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,227 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $180,000.

Wayne and Linda Brown, of Ormond Beach, sold 1 Tomoka Oaks Blvd., Unit 107, to Gary Davis, of Ormond Beach, for $250,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,430 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $210,000.

Christine Herman and Susan Howard, of Presque Isle, Michigan, sold 1051 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 601, to Michael and Christine Dille, of Bartlett, Illinois, for $685,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 3/3 and has 1,836 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $432,000.

ORMOND BEACH

Ellinor Village Bernadett Nagy, Thomas

Lehigh Woods

David Paul Kendrick and Tonya Lynn Dortch, of Central City, Kentucky, sol 10 Ripple Place to Deonte and Christina Wilson, of Palm Coast, for $306,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,607 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $158,900.

Pine Lakes

Kristin Cookson Fernandes, of Boca Raton, sold 23 Montauk Lane to Michael and Wendy Arbit, of Palm Coast, for $420,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,075 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $285,000.

Gary and Constance Philips, of Columbus, Ohio, sold 20 Westlee Lane to Anthony James Infantino and Sandra Infantino, of Palm Coast, for $465,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,107 square feet. It sold in 1998 for $145,000.

Sawmill Creek Holiday Builders, Inc., of Melbourne, sold 1 Rivertown Road to Ross Anthony Dalton, Keyara Alyssa Zuniga Dalton and Skylar Joseph Zuniga, of Palm Coast, for $355,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2.5 and has 2,163 square feet.

Toscana Applied Building Development of Orlando – P.C., Inc., of Davenport, sold 70 New Leatherwood Drive to William George Reagle and Van Marie Reagle, of Palm Coast, for $930,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a fireplace, a hot tub and 2,712 square feet.

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

Bejsovec and Veronica Tothne Varga, of Daytona Beach, sold 402 South Halifax Drive to My Linh Thi Pham, of Ormond Beach, for $275,000. Built in 1949, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,479 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $205,000.

Not in a subdivision Robert and Anna Meyering, as trustees, sold 544 Sandy Oaks Blvd. to Alexander Cole Fox, of Costa Mesa, California, for $535,000. Built in 1988, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 1,931 square feet. It sold in 1994 for $136,000.

Ormond Terrace CAM Real Estate XIA, LLC, of Redondo Beach, California, sold 359 Wilmette Circle to Kevin Everhart and Diana Coltelli, of Morgantown, West Virginia, for $400,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,892 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $293,600.

Plantation Bay Carol Dee, as trustee, sold 502 Oyster Bay Drive to

Desiree Del Monte and Kris Lynn Kistler, as trustees, for $750,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub and 2,558 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $387,000.

Riviera Oaks

Tyler and Jessica Perkins, of Ormond Beach, sold 102 Tierra Circle to Paul and Gladys Koumanelis, of Ormond Beach, for $300,000. Built in 1979, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,346 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $274,500.

Springleaf

David and Brenda Netto, of Ormond Beach, sold 1812 Golfwood Circle to S&S Motorpark LLC, of Ormond Beach, for $348,500. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,411 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $115,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Avalon By the Sea

Patricia Ann Harris and Daryl Harris, of Ormond Beach, sold 132 Capri Drive to Jeffrey and Sharon Kittelson, of Ormond beach, for $970,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, an outdoor bar and 2,391 square feet.

Not in a subdivision

Kermit Lynn Smith and Vicki Arledge Smith, of Deland, sold 2876 John Anderson Drive to Susan Luranc Kurtz, a trustee, for $900,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 4/4 and has a sauna, an outdoor shower and 2,698 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $516,000.

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

PALM COAST

ORMOND BEACH

Why I’m OK with being a bad politician

Honesty requires that we acknolwedge that we may need to collect more in taxes this year than last year in Palm Coast.

THERESA PONTIERI CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

It was said by an American writer and minister (James Freeman Clarke) from the 1800s, “The difference between a politician and a statesman is that a politician thinks about the next election while the statesman thinks about the next generation.”

So, perhaps me being more concerned with ensuring our city has adequate infrastructure and public safety for both our current residents and our future generations, rather than blindly pledging to grant a full roll-back, makes me a bad politi-

cian. If so, I’m OK with it.

Safe and reliable roads, a functioning stormwater system, an adequate water supply, sufficient sheriff’s deputies and top-notch fire and rescue services for years to come mean more to me than a sound bite and a small, one-year reprieve on property taxes (most residents who are homesteaded won’t feel much reprieve at all in their monthly budget).

This may not be the most popular position, but this year, with this budget, and in this economy, I truly believe it’s the right position.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a true fiscal conservative who engages in strong scrutiny of our budget all year long. For every single contract I approve, I’m not afraid to challenge our city staff and hold our vendors and contractors accountable. For every new housing development, I look at the long-term financial strain and infrastructure needs it will bring with it.

So, if there’s a way to grant a full roll-back while simultaneously providing to our residents the services and quality of life they deserve, I’ll fully support it. I did so last year. But to be honest — and as a bad politician, I’m going to be honest —

Make yourself at home

I simply don’t see how it’s possible this year.

Last year, I supported the full roll-back in order to initiate what I felt was the beginning of a culture change for both our city staff and council. A culture in which we become more efficient and resourceful, rather than simply tax and spend. The roll-back was done, $3 million in cuts were made, and we survived. However, it came at a cost in an economy where everything is more expensive, including the cost to run our city. From chemicals to treat our water and pool, to construction materials for our aging infrastructure, it all went up. Yet, we were able to cut back.

This year, we need to prioritize infrastructure and public safety, and both of those priorities have high price tags. Here are just a few examples, illustrating our current challenges:

1. We are at least $4.5 million short to fund our road maintenance program.

2. We are roughly $1.7 million short of funding the long overdue reconstruction of Fire Station 22.

3. We need to find an additional approximately $1.3 million to fund

nine new sheriff’s deputies to keep our community safe.

The above are necessities — not luxuries — and they all come at a cost, largely out of our general fund, which is the fund into which property taxes go. So, while I can firmly commit to holding the line on taxes and not raising them, to say I can commit to reducing them, knowing the above needs are banging down our door, is irresponsible and not in the best interest of our residents.

This is something politicians like to do — tell their constituency they’ll be getting big property tax relief, when in reality, that’s not so for the majority of our residents.

To say I’ll reduce taxes and let the next City Council worry about addressing these needs would be ignoring the fact that I was elected to make tough decisions in the best interests of my constituents — representing them, not myself.

So yeah, I guess I’m a bad politician. But I’d rather be a bad politician with integrity than a good politician who skirts today’s challenges, leaving our future generations and representatives with my responsibilities to bear.

A rite of passage? No, something better

She shrugged it off, as if it were an unremarkable fact.

BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER

I remember opening a bank account for my oldest son, Jackson, several years ago, when he was a young teenager. It was a rite of passage for him, and, as was the case with everything else he did, it was also a rite of passage for me: He was a constant source of firsts for me as a parent. Then, a few years later, I helped my second son, Grant, open a bank account.

The Flagler Humane Society is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1 Shelter Drive in Palm Coast. 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. PETS UP FOR ADOPTION

Last week, I drove my 14-yearold daughter, Ellie, to the bank to open a checking account for her.

The third time around, it’s no longer a rite of passage for me, only for her. On that day, I felt more like a spectator, watching her grow up but without the nerves that she might be feeling.

Every little detail was unfamiliar to her, something to worry about.

“Is it worth it to memorize my Social Security number?” she asked.

“Umm, yes,” I said, trying to hide my amusement. “You’re going to need to provide it at a moment’s notice many times for the rest of your life, and you won’t always have your Social Security card with you, and it only takes a minute to memorize it, so, yes, it’s definitely worth memorizing.”

“OK,” she said, frowning in deep thought.

Since Ellie is the third child to open a bank account in the family, I

already knew what I was going to do with regard to the initial deposit.

“I’ll put $100 into the account,” I said to the clerk, “for emergencies.”

Then I gave Ellie a look and repeated the phrase, “for emergencies.”

She could sense my tone: I was accusing her today for tomorrow’s expected violations.

“What?” she said innocently, her moral outrage rising to match mine.

“As in,” I explained, “if you’re stranded, have no phone, no gas money, no watch or ring to pawn, then you can dip into the emergency fund.”

Unsure how to respond to our banter, the bank clerk nervously cleared his throat and smiled.

Ellie had a response that startled me.

“I haven’t ever spent more than $15 at one time,” she said, “so I don’t think it will be a problem.”

“Never?” I asked. “Fifteen dollars?”

She shrugged it off, as if it were an unremarkable fact. But I saw it as a revelation. I knew that she had saved hundreds of dollars, but I hadn’t considered how. I realized that this was part of her personality, something that made her very different from me at that age, or from most people I have ever met. She possessed a type of restraint that would serve her well for the rest of her life. By comparison, who cares if she hadn’t memorized her Social Security number?

I hadn’t experienced a rite of passage, exactly, but I did experience a change: I now looked at my daughter with new eyes, no longer as a spectator. The act of opening an account wasn’t too exciting, but discovering something about Ellie’s character was thrilling in an unexpected way. She was not a young teen to be coddled or chided; she was a young woman to be admired.

“If

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 PALM COAST

Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com

OBO Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com

Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com

Staff Writer Sierra Williams, sierra@observerlocalnews.com

Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com

Director of Engagement Kaitlyn Stier, kstier@observerlocalnews.com

Operations Manager Bonnie Hamilton, bonnie@observerlocalnews.com

SUBSCRIBE

The Palm Coast & Ormond Beach 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

Will your customers remember you when they need you? Call the office at 386-447-9723 to see how we can help.

EVENTS Submit local nonprofit or entertainment events here: observerlocalnews.com/ calendar.

LETTERS

Send letters to brian@ observerlocalnews.com. The editor may make changes for clarity and length. Include first and last name and city of residence.

Locally Owned / Publishers of the Palm Coast Observer McMillan Ink LLC 50 Leanni Way, Unit C3 Palm Coast, FL 32137

VETERAN OF THE WEEK

Marcos Cabrera  Branch of military: U.S. Army  Dates of service: 1970-1990  Rank/occupation: Sergeant First Class / Cook / Accounting  Hometown: Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico

Marcos Cabrera was a career soldier and a veteran of the Vietnam War where he earned the Bronze Star Medal. He spent 15 of his 20 years in the Army on overseas assignments.

In addition to the Bronze Star Medal, he earned the Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Army Commendation Medal with first oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with first oak leaf cluster and Army Achievement Medal with first oak leaf cluster among others.

Cabrera worked at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach for many years before retiring. He resides in Palm Coast. NEED HELP WITH VETERAN SERVICES?

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

Alvin, 11

Pop, 1

Magnolia, 10 Cody, 1

Items Under $200

CURIO CABINET 6’ all glass, enclosed, curved, lighted, bowed front $150 201-647-3912

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

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

NORDIC TRACK exercise equipment, $200 386-447-1891

PEACH FACE offspring baby love birds available 386-931-9159

RHINO SHINE One Tough Sealant for granite countertops (orange scent) 1 gal. $20 (386)283-7172

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

Announcements

In ‘tonal’ harmony

From May 3-5, Palm Coast’s amphitheater and restaurants were alive with the sound of county music hits for the sixth annual Palm Coast Songwriters Festival.

Over 40 songwriters performed over 150 hits at this year’s festival, according to the festival’s website. The main performances took place at the Daytona Sate College Palm Coast Amphitheater, with other, smaller and free performances held at restaurants across town over the weekend.

Some of the performers included Frank Myers, who wrote and co-wrote hits like “I’m Already There” and “I Swear”; Billy Montana, co-writer of country singer Garth Brooks’ “More Than A Memory”; Brett Jones, who has more than 150 major label recordings; and Lee Thomas Miller, who has written or co-written seven No. 1 country hits.

On May 4, Festival emcee Shawn Parr led an auction of a guitar to be signed and personalized by Garth Brooks to the auction winner. Two guitars were purchased in the auction for $7,000, one by Joe Wright, president of Quantum Electric Contractors, and one by Paul Summa, the general sales manager at Palm Coast Ford.

The guitars were offered to the auction by Brett Jones on behalf of Gold Star Mentors, which was founded by Jones in 2017. The nonprofit’s mission is to donate guitars and guitar lessons to children and young adults grieving the death of military family, according to the Gold Star Mentors website.

–SIERRA WILLIAMS

Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly and his wife Debbie Staly

Songwriter Brett Jones at the Songwriters Festival.

Dr. Steve Davidson and his wife Mary Davidson clap along to a performance by Lee Thomas Miller.

Jason and Jennifer Warren

Jeff Golumbeff and Shannon and Gary Cox

Songwriters Festival emcee Shawn Parr and Garry Lubi auction a guitar that will be signed by the famous country singer Garth Brooks.

Bob Boos with family Mark and Kate Boos and their son Collen, 7.

Cynthia Gialanella and Carol Bonafillia

Over 40 hit songwriters performed at the sixth annual Palm Coast Songwriters Festival.

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, MAY 9

HALIFAX GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY MONTHLY

MEETING

When: 1:30-3:45 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

Library Auditorium, 30 South Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: Genealogist Ann Osisek will give a presentation titled, “Calico & Cornbread

– How to Find Your Female Ancestors” for the club’s May meeting. The presentation is meant to help with faster researching of the women in a genealogist’s family trees. Guest registration is free.

TRADEWINDS

EXHIBIT 2024

When: 5-7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 East Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Celebrate the opening of “Tradewinds 2024,” an exhibit featuring artwork by Seabreeze High School students. Meet many of the exhibiting artists and enjoy light refreshments.

SWING INTO SPRING

When: 6:30-8 p.m.

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Celebrate the start of spring with free concerts at The Casements’ north lawn. This concert will feature The Moonlighters.

‘THE JOY OF COLOR’ OPENING RECEPTION

When: 5-7 p.m.

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond

Beach

Details: The Florida Women’s Arts Association’s next exhibit, “The Joy of Color” will be on display inside The Casements through May 31. Almost 50 artists are participating, with artworks that “create a mood and interpret color in a variety of mediums so you can enjoy,” according to a press release. Free admission for the opening reception. Visit flwaa.com.

‘SPONGEBOB, THE MUSICAL’

When: 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, May 9 and 10; and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 11

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

Details: The Flagler Palm Coast High School drama department will put on this musical, baed on the cartoon series by Stephen Hillenburg. Tickets cost $15 for adults; $10 for students. Visit https://flaglerauditorium.org/ school-events.

FRIDAY, MAY 10

‘CHURCH FOLKS AIN’T LAUGHING ENOUGH’ VARIETY SHOW

When: 6-10 p.m.

Where: African American

Museum and Cultural Center of Florida, 4422 US Highway 1 North, Palm Coast

Details: See this inspirational comedy variety show, sponsored by Loyce of Palm Coast. There will be comedy skits, musics, dancing and dining. Dinner is included. Tickets cost $28 per person in advance; $40 at the door. Call 609-412-3049.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

2024 HALIFAX HUMANE SOCIETY MUTT STRUTT

When: 9 a.m.

Where: Daytona Beach Bandshell, 250 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach

Details: Join the Halifax Humane Society in its annual Mutt Strutt, a 5K run/walk on the beach with raffles, auctions, vendors, live music by The Taylor Band and more. Dogs are allowed. Registration costs $25 on site, and $15 in advance, and begins at 8 a.m. Visit muttstrutt. givesmart.com.

LOW-COST PET SHOT CLINIC

When: 9-10:30 a.m.

Where: The Ice House, 810 State St., Bunnell

Details: Get your pet vaccinated at a lower cost. Rabies shots will cost $5 for 1-year vaccinations. Other shots offered include dog distemper/parvo combo, dog flu, cat distemper combo, feline leukemia and more. Heartworm prevention and flea control products will be available for purchase. All vaccinations are administered with a licensed veterinarian. No appointment needed. Clinic is open to everyone. Proceeds benefit abused animals. Call or text 748-8993 or visit spcavolusia. org

FOURTH ANNUAL PALM COAST TOUCH A TRUCK

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast

Details: The city of Palm Coast will host its annual Touch a Truck event. This year’s theme, “Connecting Our Worlds to the Future,” aims to provide local youth with an interactive and educational experience, allowing them to explore and engage with various equipment.

‘FILL THAT BUS’

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

Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast

Details: Care Cupboard food pantry, along with Pak’s Karate, is inviting the Palm Coast community to “Fill That Bus” at the fourth annual Touch-A-Truck day. Help fill a bus with groceries to help stock the food pantry.

MOTHER’S DAY CRAFTS

When: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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

Details: The city of Ormond Beach is hosting a Mother’s Day themed craft event,

recommended for ages 4-11. Free. Space is limited. Call 386-615-7081.

PILOT CLUB OF THE

HALIFAX AREA’S ANNUAL FASHION SHOW

When: Noon

Where: Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, 698 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach

Details: Thus annual fashion show is a fundraiser to benefit the local youth and charities. Tickets are $36 each, and the show will include a luncheon, the latest fashions from JCPenney, basket raffles and a 360 photo booth.Tickets can be purchased at halifaxpilotsclub.ticketspice.com/ halifax-fashion-fest and the show is also viewable virtually at https://halifaxpilotsclub. ticketspice.com/halifax-fashion-fest for those unable to attend in person. The virtual attendees will be eligible for cash prizes. Doors open at 11 a.m.

‘GENEALOGY IN THE LIBRARY’

When: 1-4 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: The Halifax Genealogical Society is hosting a free, one-on-one research assistance program for anyone interested in researching family history. The volunteers convene in the Sandpiper Room in the library. To register, contact halifaxgensociety@gmail.com.

FIFTH ANNUAL ORMOND BEACH BEER FEST

When: 1-4 p.m.

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Join the Rotary Club of Ormond Beach for its fifth annual Ormond Beach Beer Fest, featuring a beer tasting of over 100 different beers from 35 breweries. Tickets for the tastings cost $35 in advance and $40 on the day of the event. No admission charge. All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club. Visit ormondbeachbeerfestival. com.

PAINT YOUR COILS ON CANVAS ‘MOTHERS

DAY EDITION’

When: 4 p.m.

Where: Imagine School at Town Center, 775 Town Center Blvd., Palm Coast

Details: Naturals of Palm Coast will present a Paint Your Coils on Canvas event in time to celebrate Mothers Day. Doors open at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $45. All supplies provided. Reservation and prepayment required. There will also be a vendor showcase from 3-4 p.m. Visit bit.ly/nopcpaintyourcoils.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

SPRING BIRD WALKS WITH JOAN TAGUE

When: 8 a.m.

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

Details: Master Naturalist

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

THURSDAY, MAY 16

SWING INTO SPRING

When: 6:30-8 p.m.

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Celebrate the start of spring with free concerts at The Casements’ north lawn. This concert will feature Savannah Savino.

ORMOND BEACH AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEETING

When: 7 p.m.

Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: The Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club’s May meeting will feature Volusia County School Board member Carl Persis as its guest speaker. Check-in and socializing begins at 6:30 p.m. Activities to prepare for the August and November elections will be discussed. Like minded nonmembers are welcome to attend as guests. Club information can be found at ormondbeachdems. org.

FRIDAY, MAY 17

GARDEN CLUB OF PALM COAST YARD SALE

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, May 17; and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 18

Where: 180 Westhampton Drive, Palm Coast

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

SATURDAY, MAY 18

FLAGLER COUNTY MASTER GARDENER ANNUAL PLANT SALE

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

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell Details: Join the Flagler County Master Gardeners for their annual plant sale. Free admission.

HISTORY OF THE CIVIL WAR IN FLORIDA

When: 9:30-11 a.m.

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

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

SUNDAY, MAY 19

LOW-COST PET SHOT CLINIC

When: 9-11 a.m.

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

Details: Get your pet vaccinated at a lower cost. Rabies shots will cost $5 for 1-year vaccinations. Other shots offered include dog distemper/parvo combo, dog flu, cat distemper combo, feline leukemia and more. Heartworm prevention and flea control

products will be available for purchase. All vaccinations are administered with a licensed veterinarian. No appointment needed. Clinic is open to everyone. Proceeds benefit abused animals. Call or text 748-899

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

When: 12-4 p.m.

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

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

TASTE OF ORMOND

When: 4-7 p.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

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

ONGOING

BAM SENIOR

FITNESS CLASS

When: 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays

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

Details: Join this Balance and Motion class and develop

TRIBUTES

Charlotte Eileen “Cricket” Oettel

May 18, 1942 - May 3, 2024

Charlotte Eileen “Cricket” Oettel, age 81, a resident of Palm Coast, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 3rd, following bouts with a longtime illness. Charlotte had a vibrant life in Philadelphia, before moving from Ridley to Palm Coast, with her husband, Robert in 1989. She worked for Flagler County Schools for 27 years as a school bus driver and often commented that she loved the children that rode on her bus. After retiring in 2015, she worked for Flagler County Transportation as a senior transport driver for 2-3 years. She is predeceased by her husband, Robert and her sons, Stephen and David. She is survived by her son Charles “Ching” Oettel and her step-daughters Gail Baham and Sharon Oettel. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchil-

strength and endurance, core stability and balance. Taught by senior fitness specialist Artie G, the class is open to all fitness levels and free with most insurances. A donation is accepted for those without coverage. See full schedule at synergyseniorfitness.com or call 386-931-3485.

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

MOMS OF PRE SCHOOLERS When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Friday of the month Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Moms of Pre Schoolers is a free faith-based program for moms, moms-tobe and their preschoolers for support and encouragement. Breakfast provided. Playtime offered for children, with adult supervision. Call 386-2552588.

MOAS EXHIBITIONS

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

Cheers. Richard Wilson, Jason Devriese and Rod Armstrong sample a variety of beers during the Ormond Beach Beer Festival. Photo by Michele Meyers

Beau Kinsella, 8, pulls the horn on a utility truck at the Touch-ATruck event on Saturday, May 27, 2003. Photo by Siera Williams

dren: Renee, Orion and Alex, and by her many friends. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

THE FINE ARTS

ROW YOUR BOAT

Artist Kate Hammer-Witty’s favorite subject is nature.

According to her artist statement, her works are done with an under painting in the color of the mood she experienced by the scene she is depicting. An artist who uses various methods for her paintings, HammerWitty said a painting reveals the connection and communication with a particular place and time.

“My passion for art offers me the ‘lens’ by which I observe a scene in light, shadow, and color.

“Painting provides the medium to create beyond the apparent,” Hammer-Witty said.

Hammer-Witty, of DeLand, is one of the artists whose works will be on display at The Casements from May 11-31 in the Florida Women’s Art Association’s exhibition, titled “The Joy of Color.” She is a retired educator who worked with exceptional students in the public school system and former professor at the University of Central Florida and Nova University.

–JARLEENE ALMENAS

TRIBUTES

Rose Anne Dunworth Nohe

May 13, 1943 - April 30, 2024

Rose Anne Dunworth Nohe, daughter of Rose and John Dunworth died on April 30, 2024 of cancer and Alzheimer’s. She was predeceased by brothers Jack and Bob. Rose was cared for at the end of her life by husband, Kenneth Nohe.

Rose Anne Dunworth was born on May 13, 1943 in Baltimore, MD, the first girl after her three brothers, Bob, Mike, and Jack. She was quickly followed by Betty, Thomas, Cathy, David, and Joseph. Her role of oldest daughter in a family of 9 children defined much of her character, a loving, hard-working, and opinionated leader.

Rose attended St. Michael’s and St. Stephen’s. She married at 18, worked to support her husband through college, and fondly remembered the formality of wearing white gloves to her first job. Rose and Ken started a family with the birth of daughter, Catherine, and son, Ken.

Rose’s motto was, “When you wake up, get up. When you get up, do something.” She lived that motto with her hard work and devotion to her family and career. At a time when women faced innumerable obstacles in the corporate world, Rose advanced to vice president at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, completing college classes in the evening.

Rose was thrilled to become “Granny Rose” with the adoption of Tessa Rose. Dauntless, she traveled to China for her granddaughter’s, Claire’s, adoption. She was so honored to be included in her grandson’s, Stuart’s, birth. Her youngest granddaughter, Charlotte Rose, always held a special place in her heart. Rose had a sense of adventure. She loved traveling, whether it was an international journey or taking a quiet country road to see where it would lead. Rose achieved her dream of living by the ocean, retiring to Palm Coast, Florida. She loved her beautiful condo & her

view of the ocean, and she built a home away from home for her children and grandchildren, orchestrating beautiful holidays and vacations for her family. Rose found joy in her sunrises on the ocean, sunsets on the intracoastal, and escapades with her sister and partner-in-condo-adventures, Elizabeth Crouse. Her years in Palm Coast were filled with family, friends, children, grandchildren, laughter, tea, wine, and memories, only made better when her youngest sister, Cathy Sheroke, was able to join.

Rose enjoyed her friends in Palm Coast, collected countless bags of trash to keep A1A & the beach clean, and valued her volunteer work, gathering and organizing food at the food pantry. Rose is lovingly remembered and missed by family and friends. She is survived by Ken Nohe, daughter, Catherine (Ann) Berns, Claire Berns, and Tessa Rose Berns. Son, Ken Nohe (Lisa), Stuart, and Charlotte Rose. Sister, Elizabeth (Rick) Crouse, Rick, & Lynnell Gravelle and family. Sister, Cathy (Chuck) Sheroke & Anna Rose and family. She is also survived by brothers Michael, Thomas, David, Joseph, and their families & the families of her brothers, Bob & Jack.

TRIBUTES

John Joseph “Pastor Jack” Rigney Jr.

October 12, 1944 - April 28, 2024

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we bid farewell to a cherished soul, John Joseph “Pastor Jack” Rigney Jr., who peacefully departed this life on April 28, 2024, at the Stuart F. Meyer Hospice House, surrounded by the love of his family and the grace of God. He was 79 years old.

Pastor Jack was a beacon of light in our community, born on October 12, 1944, in Ft. Myers, Florida, to the late John and Janet Rigney. His life was a testament to faith, service, and unwavering devotion to God. From his earliest days at Bishop Hendricken High School, where he graduated in 1962, to his studies at Bryant College, John’s path was marked by a deep commitment to spiritual growth and service to others which was evident even through his service to our great country as a U.S. Navy Veteran.

Throughout his journey, Pastor Jack wore many hats with pride and purpose. As a proud foster parent, he opened his heart and home to those in need, embodying the true spirit of compassion and generosity. As a successful business owner, he not only provided for his family but also extended his hand to uplift those around him, fostering growth and prosperity in the community.

However, Pastor Jack’s most profound legacy lies in the founding of His Heart Ministries International (HHMI), an organization dedicated to spreading the love and teachings of Jesus Christ to every corner of the globe. His vision, fueled by an unwavering faith, touched countless lives and brought hope to the hearts of many.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pastor Jack was a man of diverse passions and interests. Whether he was riding his motorcycle, casting a line into the tranquil waters, or spending time in the great outdoors, he found solace and joy in the beauty of God’s creation. Pastor Jack enjoyed volunteering within the community. He faithfully served as the Captain of the COP and dedicated 18 years of his life to the Youth Advisory Board at Hastings

Youth Academy, where he tirelessly ministered to youth in crisis situations every week. His adventurous spirit and zest for life were truly infectious, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Pastor Jack is survived by his devoted wife, seven children, thirteen grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and a loving sister. His legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

A celebration of Pastor Jack’s remarkable life will be held on May 18, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at The Rock Transformation Center, 2200 North State Street, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The service will be officiated by Donna Rigney and John Rigney III, honoring the life and legacy of a truly extraordinary man.

To all our family and friends who have offered their love, support, and prayers during this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your presence and compassion have been a source of strength and comfort, and we are forever grateful for your unwavering support. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Pastor Jack’s, His Heart Ministries Int. Memorial Fund, https://donnarigney.org/give. The donations will be put towards the Glory Revival Center he spearheaded.

Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Happy Arbor Day, Palm Coast

Saturday’s celebration featured a monarch butterfly release and a tree giveaway.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Palm Coast has received a Tree City USA designation for the 19th consecutive year. It is also designated a Monarch City USA. On Saturday, May 4, the city celebrated both designations with tree giveaways and a monarch butterfly release at Palm Coast’s 19th annual Arbor Day celebration at Central Park in Town Center.

People who brought non-perishable human or pet food received a ticket for a free tree. Four varieties of trees and shrubs — redbuds, red maples, pignut hickories and buttonbush — were available. Master certified arborists and master gardeners with the UF/IFAS Flagler County Extension offered guidance on proper pruning, placement, planting and root-shaving techniques at the tree tent.

Kids and adults opened their envelopes at 11 a.m. in front of City Hall to release live monarch butterflies. The butterfly tent filled with fluttering monarchs was the most popular exhibit of the day.

DJ Dave of Pyramid Disc Jockeys ran contests for the kids. There was also a face painting tent. The Palm Coast Fire Department brought its two-story, three-room Public Safety Simulator that shows children and adults fire hazards to watch out for in the home. The Florida Forestry Service focused on wildfire awareness.

The Rotary Club of Flagler County gave train rides to kids during the event.

At the Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation tent, Curator Nick Clark removed a timber rattlesnake from its cage to a plastic box and back again after he added an icepack to regulate the snake’s temperature.

The Arbor Day event also included a photo contest.

“This event is about so much more than trees,” City of Palm Coast Urban Forester Carol Mini said in a press release. “It’s about bringing together Palm Coast families and friends to share in our passion for trees and keeping Palm Coast green.”

YOUR TOWN

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, UNITED RECEIVE VASA AWARD

The Volusia Association of School Administrators honored the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties with

the 2024 VASA Jack Schoep Award at the annual Phi Delta Kappa and VASA Night, held at the Daytona Beach International Airport on April 11.

Named in honor of an administrator within the Volusia County Schools, the VASA Jack Schoep Award is awarded annually to an individual or organization exemplifying exceptional dedication to enhancing public education through community service, leadership, and generous support.

The Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties were recognized for their commitment to bolstering public education, as evidenced by the Community Impact grant process, which prioritizes three key areas: Education, Financial Stability, and Health.

Throughout the 2023-2024 fiscal year, CF UWVFC allocated $314,500 in grants to local nonprofit organizations dedicated to educational initiatives. Furthermore, CF UWVFC actively collaborates with the Volunteer Center to spearhead volunteer projects aimed at bolstering education, including the highly successful Annual Stuff the Bus event. The Annual Stuff the Bus event, conducted in partnership with Tanger Outlets, serves as a cornerstone initiative in CF UWVFC’s mission to support education. This event, designed to gather clothing and school supplies, facilitates the distribution of essential resources to Title I Schools within Volusia County, thereby fostering a conducive learning environment for students in need.

“We are honored to be a recipient of the VASA Jack Schoep award,” said Courtney Edgcom, president and CEO of CF UWVFC. “We know the future of this community rests upon the shoulders of the next generation and we want to be able to support them in any possible way now so they can thrive in the future.”

Mainland High School’s prom king and queen Eric Bell and Arianna Melendez.

Dr. Julio Nazario-Valle, Ed.D. Chief Academic Officer Volusia County Schools; Jessie Thompson, District 3 School Board Member Volusia County Schools; Dr. Rachel Hazel, Deputy Superintendent Volusia County Schools; Anita Burnette, District 2 School Board Member Volusia County Schools; Dr. Carmen J. Balgobin, Superintendent Volusia County Schools; Amanda Lasecki, Vice President of Operations Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties. Courtesy photos

Mainland High School crowned seniors Eric Bell and Arianna Melendez as its prom king and queen. The Mainland Bucs celebrated their prom on Saturday, April 27, at

the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art in Daytona Beach. According to the school website, this year’s theme was “The Golden Gala.”

MAINLAND CROWNS ITS PROM KING AND QUEEN

Arianna Johnsen looks at the result at Doreen’s Face Painting

Jovahni, Jariel, Julian and Justin Joya with mom Jenny Flores.

Jodi Coia, education coordinator at Marineland

African American Cultural Society membership committee members Joyce Welsh-Shirley, Donna Easterling and Mamie Godfrey (committee chair).

Jeffery Seib, Michelle Watson and Kathleen Seib. They picked up a pignut hickory tree and a redbud tree.

Ruth and Tom Plapis and daughter Cathy Fierley with dog Jake. They picked up four trees for themselves, another daughter and a niece.

Kaitlin Gerdau and children Toby and Amelia picked up a buttonbush tree.

Temple Beth-El, Congregation B’nai Torah to combine Sunday schools

Students from both schools celebrated the end of the 2023-2024 school year with a joint event at Rainbow Park on May 5.

Temple Beth-El and its Congregation B’nai Torah synagogues will be combining their Sunday schools in the next school year.

The two schools celebrated the end of the 2023-2024 school year with a joint event at the city’s Magic Forest Playground — also known as Rainbow Park — on May 5, Temple BethEl Director of Religious Schools Dr. Jonathan Frankel said. The combined school will begin in August, he said. “This was — let’s call it the kickoff for what we’re calling the Shalom School, which means ‘peace school,’ initiative,” Frankel said.

Historically, he said, the two different synagogue Sunday schools have met twice a month for two to three hours. Frankel said when he took over as the director, he reached out to Congregation B’nai Torah to begin working on joint youth activities for their Sunday school students.

One activity was a joint youth choir, Frankel said, that performed together at nursing homes and community events throughout the year.

YOUR TOWN

FLAGLER PALM COAST KIWANIS CLUB OBSERVES NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

The Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club observed the National Day of Prayer at its annual prayer luncheon on May 2.

Temple Beth-El’s school has about 36 students right now while B’nai Torah has around 24, Frankel said; once the new school starts, he’s estimating the integrated Shalom School will have north of 60 students. The students will be integrated according to their age and grade, ranging from ages 4-13, or prekindergarten to seventh grade.

The challenge will be integrating the two schools’ educational goals,

Clergy of varied faiths and denominations — including Pastor J, Pastor Joaquim Miranda, Father Bob May, Father Manny Lopez, Rabbi Karen Tashman and Father Bob Goolsby — spoke about their lives, faith and prayer.

Several Kiwanians also spoke, and musical entertainment was provided. Kiwanian Joel Rosen organized the event again this year.

Send Your Town stories with photos to sierra@observerlocalnews. com.

Frankel said, though there is much more in common between the two than differences. The schools both teach Jewish values, cultural history and Jewish holidays, but also have a focus on community service projects and giving back to the community. Frankel and B’nai Torah’s Rabbi David Kane will be the Shalom School’s co-directors.

This is an opportunity, Frankel said, for the local Jewish organiza-

tions to work together.

“We’re working closely with the Jewish Federation of Volusia and Flagler County,” he said. “I mean, we’re all separate organizations, but we believe that we’re stronger together. There’s more that unites us than divides us.”

Frankel said one of the most exciting benefits of integrating the two schools is that it exposes the students to more Jewish kids in their communities. The May 5 celebration served as a way to introduce the two schools’ students to each other ahead of the new year.

“It was just amazing,” he said.

“Growing up as non-Christian people in a Christian society, it’s nice

to have other people that have the same background as you from time to time.”

Few things unite a community more than promoting its youth, Frankel said, and allowing the children of different Jewish organizations to get to know one another will be “the foundation of the next generation of Jewish people in this area.”

“There are people who will know each other for the rest of their lives because of what we’re working on here,” he said. “And I think that that is going to help us build a stronger community.”

Any inquiries about the school can be directed to either synagogue.

Temple Beth-El Director of Religious Schools Dr. Jonathan Frankel and Congregation B’nai Torah’s Rabbi David Kane. Photos courtesy of Temple Beth-El.

Students of the Temple Beth-El and Congregation B’nai Torah Sunday schools celebrate the end of the school year.

Frank Consentino, John Saucier, Pastor J, Maria Barbosa, Pastor Joaquim Miranda, Father Bob May, Father Manny Lopez, Rabbi Karen Tashman, Father Bob Goolsby, Joel Rosen, Warren Mudd. Courtesy photo

SPORTS

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Leah Stevens’ arm was sore after the District 4-5A championship softball game. The junior matched her career high 137 pitches in Matanzas’ 5-3 loss to Deltona on May 2 at Daytona State College.

“I’m battling some arm issues, but I’m just a little sore,” she said.

She was focused on staying loose so she doesn’t injure her arm further, she said, because she knew the Pirates’ season wasn’t over yet.

Two days later, the Matanzas players got to celebrate when the Florida High School Athletic Association announced the Pirates have received the sixth seed in the Region 1-5A playoffs and will travel to thirdseeded Gulf Breeze in the Panhandle on Thursday, May 9, for a regional quarterfinal game.

“I’m really excited,” Stevens said

Road trip

After district loss, Matanzas softball team heads to Gulf Breeze for playoff opener.

after the Pirates accepted their district runner-up trophy. “That was our saving grace, knowing that we’ve had an amazing season and that we’re able to keep going despite this loss. So I think that this is really kind of a wake-up call, like this could have been the last game we played this season, and I don’t think any of us were ready for that. So this is like our redemption.”

Matanzas has won 19 of 23 games this season without a senior on the roster. In Deltona (18-5) the Pirates faced a two-time state finalist. The Wolves won the Class 4A state championship in 2022 and were runnersup in Class 5A last season.

The Pirates knew they would be in a dogfight, Matanzas coach Sabrina Manhart said.

“I’m really proud of my girls fighting inning after inning after inning and really showing that they weren’t going to lay down and make it easy for them,” she said.

Stevens, who has an 11-3 record and a miniscule 0.85 earned run average after not being able to play softball last year, allowed just one earned run in the game. She struggled finding the strike zone in the fourth inning when Deltona scored three runs to take a 4-1 lead.

After Payton Woerner reached base on an error and scored on a sacrifice fly, Stevens intentionally walked Sophie Strempel, the Wolves’ top hitter, to load the bases with two outs. The right-hander then walked

the next two batters, sending two runners home.

“That umpire has a tight zone. We knew that going in,” Manhart said. “Meanwhile, the batters were being smart, making her try to find that zone and it took her a little bit to get going.”

Deltona scored another run in the fifth on three base hits, but Stevens struck out the side in the sixth and struck out two more in the seventh.

“I think I just wasn’t hitting my spots very well, so I take responsibility for that,” Stevens said. “I knew I needed to make some adjustments and it was crunch time, and it really had to come down to that.”

The junior finished with 12 strikeouts but walked six and gave up eight hits.

Matanzas, meanwhile, knocked out 12 hits. Sophomore Ruby Fogel went 3 for 3, while McKenzie Manhart, freshman Alondra Vincenty and Stevens had two hits apiece. But the Pirates’ aggressive base running backfired at times with Emerson Esselstein getting thrown out at the plate in the fifth inning and Juliet Fogel getting caught stealing second base in the sixth. The Pirates, down 5-3, strung together three hits in the inning but couldn’t score a run.

“We have a fast team and an aggressive team on the bases, and throughout this season we have really produced a lot of runs and created errors and things like that because of our base running,” Manhart said. “I

“I’m really proud of my girls fighting inning after inning after inning and really showing that they weren’t going to lay down and make it easy for them.”

SABRINA MANHART, Matanzas coach

think that late in the game we’ve got to be a little bit more conservative as we run out of outs to work with. But overall I’m proud that they still went hard inning after inning and didn’t change their aggression.”

Deltona, seeded fifth, will travel to fourth seed Gainesville in the regional quarterfinals. The Pirates and Wolves will try to move on from the toughest region in the state. Four of the top six teams in Class 5A are in Region 1 including No. 1- ranked Middleburg and No. 2 Fort Walton Beach. Gulf Breeze, the Pirates’ opponent, is ranked fourth. Deltona is ranked ninth in Class 5A and Matanzas is ranked 12th but both teams will be hitting the road in the playoffs. In the Pirates’ case, they will be making a six-hour drive.

“We’ll be ready,” Manhart said.

“This game definitely helped us prepare for the next step in postseason play. And we told our girls that these are the types of teams that you’re going to continue to see from here on out.”

Deltona catcher Payton Woerner (right) tags out Matanzas freshman Gracie Guisbert at the plate in the first inning.

Leah Stevens watches her pitch to Deltona’s Payton Woerner in the second inning. Photos by Brent Woronoff

Juliet Fogel fields a grounder at shortstop.

FPC football coach Daniel Fish expects improvement in season 2

The Bulldogs will play host to Pine Ridge in a spring game on May 23.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Flagler Palm Coast football team is bigger and stronger than last season with a chip on its shoulder.

Second-year coach Daniel Fish said the Bulldogs have something to prove after finishing 3-7 last season.

“I think we’re definitely trending in the right direction,” Fish said after a spring practice session on May 3. “We’re excited to show how hard we’ve been working.”

He said discipline and leadership have come a long way. He believes the team has improved at every position. They will have more players and coaches next season, with a coaching staff of about 20, with about 10 volunteer coaches.

“A handful have retired. They have a lot to offer,” Fish said.

With about 78 rising sophomores, juniors and seniors and about 55 incoming freshmen, Fish said they are planning to have a JV1 and a JV 2 team this year.

FPC will be in a new district this fall, District 2-7A, with DeLand, Spruce Creek and University. The Bulldogs’ rivalry game with Matanzas has been moved to back the final game of the season on Nov. 1, which will also be FPC’s senior night. The Bulldogs have a hole at the top of their schedule, however, with season-opening opponent Atlantic pulling out.

Finding a replacement will be tough, Fish said, because teams don’t normally have an open first week.

The Bulldogs’ annual Green and White scrimmage is scheduled for 5 p.m. May 17. They will close spring practice with a spring game at home against Pine Ridge at 7 p.m. May 23.

After the first week of spring practice, rising junior Cole Walker is the front runner to start at quarterback.

“He’s had a great first week. He’s shown a lot of improvement,” Fish said.

Other players who have made huge gains since last season, Fish said, tight end Roman Caliendo, defensive

end Stacy Mitchell, offensive lineman Gethin Pritchard, rising sophomore running back Ehimen Ajide and outside linebacker Corinthians “R.J.”

Watson. Fish said the 6-foot-5 Caliendo has worked hard in the weight room and has gained about 20 pounds and

SIDELINES

now weighs about 235. Stalwarts Colby Cronk and Marcus Mitchell have also made huge gains in the weight room.

Cronk, who has committed to play for North Carolina State in 2025, is benching 375 pounds, power cleaning 350 and squatting 500, Fish said.

The defensive end is currently the top-ranked shot putter in Class 4A and is expected to compete in both thot put and discus at the the state track and field championships on May 18.

Mitchell, who ran for over 1,400 yards last season, is now squatting 530 pounds and benching 345, Fish said.

“None of us are happy with what happened last year, and we decided to do something about it,” Fish said.

“We’re looking forward to a great spring and a great summer of development.”

Two players face off in a blocking drill. Photos by Brent Woronoff

Cole Walker is the front runner to start at quarterback.

Coach Ward Silvola demonstrates blocking technique to Nicholas Lee.

Michael London, Rozario Watkins and Josiah Hathaway.

Quarterback Jason Ebding throws a pass during a drill.

Rogers wins district basketball coaching honor

Bunnell Vice Mayor John Rogers was named Florida Athletic Coaches Association District Girls Basketball Coach of the Year.

Rogers’ Atlantic High team

went 12-13 in his first season with the Sharks. He turned around a program the won one game over the previous two seasons.

Rogers said when he took the job he wanted to field both a JV and a varsity team.

“They didn’t think they would have enought participants to have a varsity team let alone a JV team,” he said. “We were able to have both teams and our JV team had a winning record.

Matanzas celebrates Athletes of the Year

Matanzas High School held its Captain of the Code athletic awards ceremony on Monday, May 6, at the Pirate Theater.

Jordan Mills, who won a state wrestling championship and is also a football and track standout, was named the Male Athlete of the Year.

Alexandra Gazzoli, won the Female Athlete of the Year award. Gazzoli, who has signed a golf scholarship with Florida State, finished among the top four at the Class 2A state golf championships four years in a row. She won the title in 2022.

Rilee Whitmore won the Female Scholar Athlete of the Year award, and Sam Peters won the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year award. Girls golf and girls lacrosse coach Brandie

Alred was name Girls Coach of the Year. Football and boys weightlifting

WINNERS

Baseball: Nick Pandich

Boys Basketball: Peter

Austin

Boys Bowling: Brandon Page

Girls Bowling: Haley Olsen

Boys Golf: Jacob Roster

Girls Basektball: Ryleigh

Smith

Girls Golf: Ana Heartz

Boys Weightlifting: Cole Hash

Football: Jordan Mills

Flag Football: Eva Servello

Boys Lacrosse: Connar

Bohan

Girls Lacrosse: Mia Apfelbach

Boys Soccer: Mason

Evans

Girls Soccer: Carina Brito

Cheerleading: Madelynn

coach Matt Forrest was named Boys Coach of the Year. The Captain of the Code winners for each sport most embraced the

Hambelton

Swimming: Carmella

Cuccinello

Girls weightlifting: Samayra Cabrera

Girls Wrestling: Kendall

Bibla

Boys Wrestling: Mason

Obama

Boys Tennis: Tyler Lemmon

Volleyball: Paige Duck-

worth

Girls Tennis: Olivia Rabbat

Cross country/track: Lupita Galeano

Softball: Ashley Sampselle

Girls Coach of the Year: Brandie Alred

Boys Coach of the Year: Matt Forrest

Female Scholar Of the Year finalists: Rilee

five pillars of the Pirates’ code — discipline, responsibility, relentless effort, commitment and positive attitude.

Whitmore (weightlifting, cheerleading); Taylor Boone, basketball; Isabel Doshier, soccer. Winner: Rilee Whitmore.

Male Scholar Athlete of the Year finalists: Sam Peters (swimming); Scott Wiggins (soccer); Austin Weeks (bowling, tennis).

Winner: Sam Peters.

Female Athlete of the Year finalists: Alexandra Gazzoli (golf); Rilee Whitmore (weightlifting, cheerleading); Karolina Jaronis (swimming). Winner: Alexanra Gazzoli.

Male Athlete of the Year finalists: Jordan Mills (football, wrestling, track); Cole Hash (football, weightlifting); Neda Jaronis (boys soccer). Winner: Jordan Mills.

TRACE ELEMENTS by Dylan Schiff, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

Rilee Whitmore won the Female Scholar Athlete of the Year

Jordan Mills was named the Male Athlete of the Year

John Rogers

FIRST INSERTION

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 6 day of May, 2024. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Telephone: 561-241-6901 Facsimile: 561-997-6909

Service Email: flmail@raslg.com

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

URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF ANGEL F. POGGI A/K/A ANGEL POGGI; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF CHRISTOPHER J. POGGI A/K/A CHRISTOPHER POGGI; CITY OF PALM COAST, FLORIDA 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 June 07, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 8, BLOCK 7, OF PALM COAST, MAP OF BELLE TERRE, SECTION 11, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 6 PAGE(S) 5967, INCLUSIVE OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY FLORIDA, AS AMENDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 35, PAGE 528, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 41 BECKER LN, PALM COAST, FL 32137

UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF ANNEKE 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 May 24, 2024, 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

By: \S\Danielle Salem Danielle Salem, Esquire Florida Bar No. 0058248

Communication Email: dsalem@raslg.com 23-107174 - MaM May 9, 16, 2024 24-00112G

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. CASE No. 2024 CA 000174

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,

PLAINTIFF, VS. JOANNE DIGILIO A/K/A JOANNE E.

DIGILIO, ET AL.

DEFENDANT(S). To: JOANNE DIGILIO A/K/A JOANNE

E. DIGILIO

RESIDENCE: UNKNOWN LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 10 Lewis Shire Pl, Palm Coast, FL 32137 To: UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF JOANNE

DIGILIO A/K/A JOANNE E. DIGILIO

RESIDENCE: UNKNOWN LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 10 Lewis Shire Pl, Palm Coast, FL 32137 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the fol-

SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS

SECOND INSERTION

lowing described property located in Flagler County, Florida: Lot 4, Block 114, of Palm Coast, Map of Lakeview, Section 37, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Map Book 13, Page 16, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. has been filed against you, and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any,

FORTH

733.702

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 May 2, 2024. Personal Representative: /s/ John J. Ferrante 305 South Garden Circle South Windsor, Connecticut 06074 Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Vincent T. Lyon E-mail Addresses: vlyon@law.gwu.edu Florida Bar No. 103554

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024 CP 000038 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF HOPE G. SANBORN a/k/a HOPE ELIZABETH SANBORN, HOPE MARY ELIZABETH GARDNER Deceased. The administration of the estate of Hope G. Sanborn, deceased, whose date of death was August 14, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building #1, Bunnell, FL 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 May 2, 2024.

Personal Representative:

/s/ Siobhan M. Connolly, Trust Officer Garden State Trust Company 2101 Highway 34 South, Suite A Wall Township, NJ 07719 Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Anthony C. Soviero Anthony C. Soviero, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 296910 1025 W. Indiantown Road, Ste 106 Jupiter, FL 33458 Telephone: (561) 278-0098 E-Mail: tony@soviero.net Secondary E-Mail: lisa@soviero.net May 2, 9, 2024 24-00094G

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 24 day of April, 2024. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Telephone: 561-241-6901

Facsimile: 561-997-6909

Service Email: flmail@raslg.com

By: \S\Danielle Salem Danielle Salem, Esquire Florida Bar No. 0058248

Communication Email: dsalem@raslg.com 18-151107 - EuE May 2, 9, 2024 24-00099G

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024 CP 000045 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF LYNN MARGARET LAUTERBACH Deceased.

The administration of the estate of Lynn Margaret Lauterbach, deceased, whose date of death was October 19, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E Moody Blvd Building #1, Bunnell, FL 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 May 2, 2024. Personal Representative: Julia Lauterbach 7 Criston Court Palm Coast, Florida 32137

Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Jennifer A. McGee

Jennifer A. McGee, Esq., Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1023165 6 Meridian Home Lane, Unit 201 Palm Coast, Florida 32137 Telephone: (386) 320-7300 E-Mail: jennifer@mcgeelawfl.com Secondary E-Mail: denise@mcgeelawfl.com May 2, 9, 2024 24-00096G

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE No.: 2024 CA 000226

KOLREI INTERNATIONAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. LEE-CY HUANG, and all others claiming by, through and under LEE-CY HUANG AND TEH-CHUN HUANG, and all others claiming by, through and under TEH-CHUN HUANG, Defendant, TO: LEE-CY HUANG, and all others claiming by, through and under LEE-CY

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 18-2021-CA-000358 US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JOHN CHRISTOPHER SCHMITT AKA JOHN C. SCHMITT, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered December 21, 2022 in Civil Case No. 18-2021-CA-000358 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Flagler County, Bunnell, Florida, wherein US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST is Plaintiff and JOHN CHRISTOPHER SCHMITT AKA JOHN C. SCHMITT, et al., are Defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of Court, TOM W. BEXLEY, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online via https://flagler. realforeclose.com/index.cfm in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 7th day of June, 2024 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 4, Block 6, Palm Coast, Map of Florida Park Section 2, according to the plat or map thereof described in Map Book 6, at Page(s) 3, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida, as amended by instrument recorded in Official Records Book 35, at Page 528, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.

If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 1 (800) 955-8770.

By: /s/Robyn Katz

Robyn Katz, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801

Phone: (407) 674-1850

Fax: (321) 248-0420

Email: MRService@mccalla.com Fla. Bar No.: 146803

23-06723FL May 2, 9, 2024 24-00097G

HUANG AND TEH-CHUN HUANG, and all others claiming by, through and under TEH-CHUN HUANG YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet the title on the following real property in Flagler

IN

DIVISION :

M. McGILL, III a/k/a WILLIAM McPHEARSON McGILL III Deceased. The administration of the estate of WILLIAM M. McGILL, III a/k/a WILLIAM McPHEARSON McGILL III, deceased, whose date of death was December 6, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 2024-CP-000162; the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building #1, Bunnell, FL 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 who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE

DIVISION: 49 JAYME FERNANDES-NETO Plaintiff(s) vs. ROBERT L. W. HOENER; all

unknown parties claiming interests by, through, under, and against a named Defendant who are not known to be dead or alive, whether same unknown parties may claim an interest as spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, or other claimants, Defendant(s) TO: Robert L. W. Hoener 334 Senator Dr. Middletown, DE 19709 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a complaint against you has been filed in this court. You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, on petitioner’s attorney, whose name and address are: Justin G. Cerrato, Esq., Cerrato and Buchanan, LLLP d/b/a Blue Ocean Law at 4309 Pablo Oaks Ct., 2nd Floor, Jacksonville, FL 32224, on or before the thirtieth (30th) day after service of this notice, and to file the original of the written defenses with the clerk of this court either before service or immediately thereafter. Failure to serve and file written defenses as required may result in a judgment or order for relief demanded, without further notice. Justin G. Cerrato, Esq., Cerrato and Buchanan, LLLP d/b/a Blue Ocean Law 4309 Pablo Oaks Ct., 2nd Floor Jacksonville, FL 32224 May 2, 9, 16,

Happy Nurses Week

You are the human spirit at its best.

We see your extraordinary skill. We feel your limitless compassion and the enduring human spirit that brings comfort to each patient and family in your care. Thank you for lighting the way for us all as we seek to help others feel whole.