Palm Coast Observer 05-23-24

PALM COAST

Lockdowns plague Flagler Schools

CITY WATCH

New Code Enforcement Board attorney could cost twice as much Palm Coast’s Code Enforcement Board needs to hire a new lawyer, but the lowest bid contract is estimated to cost $24,000, twice the price of the previous firm. According to state requirements, an attorney needs to be present at code enforcement board meetings, but municipalities must not use the same attorney that represents the municipality. Palm Coast has been working with third-party attorney Fishback Dominick, which has declined to renew its contract for $12,000.

Code Enforcement Manager Barbara Grossman said some of that extra cost — such as travel fees, mailing services and other, non-hourly fees — could be negotiated down, which is what she was asking council permission to do.

No one on the council was comfortable approving a 100% increase for the position. The council gave Grossman permission to attempt to negotiate, but to return to council with the results before moving ahead.

City Council OKs 264 units near Imagine

A second apartment complex is planned for land directly across from Imagine School at Town Center on Town Center Boulevard.

The Palm Coast City Council approved a technical site plan for the 264-unit apartment complex called Pointe Grand Town Center at its May 21 meeting. Senior Planner Bill Hoover told the council that a traffic study showed no road improvements — such as turn lanes — were necessary to accommodate the additional traffic, but Mayor David Alfin asked the applicant if there was a way both parties could work together to improve potential congestion on the two-lane boulevard.

Traffic in the area is already restricted, he said.

“I’m trying to look forward as to what the consequences of these projects might hold for us,” Alfin said.

The development is owned by Hillpointe LLC, which also built the Pointe Grand apartments on Pine Lakes Parkway. It extends from Central Avenue to about one-fifth mile north of Imagine School. The application plans for the 264 apartments units, divided among 10, three-story buildings, with each building having 24 or 36 units.

Ray Spofford, the vice president of planning with England-Thims & Miller, the firm representing the applicant, told the mayor and council that the development would be happy to add a right turn lane to the northbound lane into the complex at Lake Avenue. Lake Avenue will be the development’s main entrance.

Spofford did request that the turn lane project be reviewed separately so as not to hold up construction.

Council member Theresa Carli Pontieri asked that the council and applicant, as a stipulation of approving the application, require that the turn lane be completed by the time 50% of the development’s certificates of occupancy were issued.

“I think that we can all agree that turn lanes are necessary here if we want to keep the traffic flow at a pace where we are showing that we’re concerned about quality of life and safety in that area,” she said.

Spofford agreed with Pontieri’s suggestion.

On the north said of Lake Avenue and the west side of Town Center Boulevard, a 300-unit apartment complex is underway. Called The Legacy at Palm Coast, it will be on the vacant 27-acre lot and will have a main entrance on Town Center Boulevard and a secondary entrance on Lake Avenue.

Senior Planner Phong Nguyen said he has reached out to The Legacy developers about their plans to include a northbound left turn lane out of Lake Avenue onto Town Center Boulevard. To include that turn lane, Nguyen said, the road will need to be widened, leaving room for a southbound left turn lane on Town Center Boulevard into Pointe Grand Town Center.

Hillpointe will just need to restripe the section into a turn lane, Nguyen said.

Spofford said that would be fine as well, so long as the construction on Legacy’s side does not hold up their own construction.

BY THE NUMBERS

67.81 Acres the development sits on.

21 Wetland acres in the development is wetlands. Stormwater ponds are also on the property.

$1,400

Minimum price for an apartment at Hillpointe’s other Palm Coast apartment complex on Pine Likes Parkway.

Alfin thanked both the developer and staff for communicating and working to solve the issues at hand.

“I would hope [this] to be a model for many of the things that we may choose to do in the future, working together as the infill process continues,” he said.

Palm Coast seeks to improve customer service interactions with new initiatives

In response to feedback from residents, Palm Coast has announced new initiatives to enhance the interactions between residents and city staff.

The city is rolling out a four-phase process to “ensure that every interaction meets the high standards of our mission: ‘Delivering exceptional service by making citizens our priority,’” a Palm Coast press release said. The initiative will focus on streamlining and enhancing service across all channels, from customer service calls to online submissions and inperson interactions.

“We have heard from our citizens that there is room for improvement in how their concerns are addressed through Palm Coast Connect and other channels,” said Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. “Our goal is to ensure that every resident has a positive experience.”

The first phase will be to set the guidelines for all city staff on how to interact with citizens, the press release said. This phase is underway. Phase two will review automated email templates, clean up the citizen portal to eliminate duplicated emails and cases, and roll out customer service training for all city staff. In phase three, the citizen portal on Palm Coast Connect will undergo changes that show residents clear timelines for their cases and customizable communication options. Phase four will launch a customized mobile app for residents to access their citizen portal account.

The site of a proposed complex in Town Center. Image from city documents

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

‘We don’t want

Sheriff, Flagler County School officials hold press conference ‘to set record straight’ on hoax calls threatening to shoot up or bomb county schools.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

After the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office responded to six bomb and shooting threats at four county schools over a three-day period, Sheriff Rick Staly called a press conference Thursday, May 16, at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center. Despite the warnings from the sheriff, the calls continued. One arrest has been made (see sidebar on this page).

Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore and School Board Chair Will Furry also participated in the May 16 press conference.

The threats began on the afternoon of May 14 and continued with four more on May 15 and one on the morning of May 16. Most of the calls threatened “to shoot up” or bomb Buddy Taylor Middle School, including one that was made to the Lincoln, Nebraska, Police Department, Staly said.

All of the threats were false.

Law enforcement sent as many as 24 units to the threatened schools, which also included a bomb threat to Old Kings Elementary School, and, on the afternoon on May 15, a threat of two pipe bombs placed at either First Baptist Christian Academy or Suncoast Community School, both in Bunnell.

“In every incident, Sheriff’s deputies swiftly responded in full force and searched thoroughly until no threats were found and everything was clear, including using our explosive detection K-9. During these situations, we continued to maintain a presence at all other Flagler schools,” Staly said.

Staly said the calls appear to be part of a state and nationwide trend of prank calls, known as “swatting” — false reports intended to set off a massive deployment of armed law enforcement including SWAT teams.

He estimated the cost to the FCSO for answering the calls was between $8,000 and $10,000.

“That was just from our agency alone,” Staly said. “On a couple of these calls we had fire departments staging too.”

Deputies and residents were also put in danger as large numbers of FCSO vehicles sped through the streets of Palm Coast and Bunnell.

Staly said the FCSO is working with its Homeland Security Section, the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in pursuing all leads. Typically, he said, when arrests are made in these hoaxes, the perpetrators are between the ages of 16 and 24.

If the caller turns out to be a juvenile, Staly said, the parents will be held responsible.

“Parents, you’re going to pay for it. Florida law allows us to charge and seek reimbursement,” he said.

But arrests in these cases are difficult, he said, because many times callers use technology to “spoof” a phone number.

“We’re going to do everything we can to charge them. Each one of those (calls) is a third degree felony,” said Staly, who asked anyone who might have information to notify the Sheriff’s Office. They can use the FCSO’s app to submit a tip anonymously or call Crime Stoppers in Northeast Florida at 888-277-tips.

to feed this caller’s sick ego’

‘I CANNOT THINK OF A MORE COWARDLY THING’

Furry thanked the sheriff and the FCSO’s school resource deputies for their quick responses.

“Finally,” Furry said, “I have a message to the perpetrator making these threats: ‘Stop it now. Whatever you’re trying to accomplish here in Flagler County, I can assure you it will fall flat. I cannot think of a more cowardly thing to do than to target children or instill fear in their hearts. … I am confident that you will be found, and you will be brought to justice.’”

Moore’s message was to the school district’s families.

“We know that this has been a very difficult week,” she said. “But in these moments, our first priority is ensuring that our students, our faculty and our staff are all safe and that we can return your children home to you safely.”

She praised students and staff for doing “a phenomenal job” in following safety protocols. She said the district is not planning any changes for the final few days of the school year. The last day of school for students is May 23.

The district had announced that all absences would be excused.

Moore said parents should make the decision that is best for them if they want to keep their children home, but she said the normal end-of-year activities will go on as scheduled.

“We will follow the lead of the Sheriff’s Office when it comes to the safety of our schools,” she said. “But we’re not going to just put our kids in a room and not do the things that we have planned to do because someone is making these types of calls. If we need to invoke one of our protocols, we’ll do that. But outside of that, we’re going to have a normal day for our students. This is the end of the year, we have field day and graduation and so many other things happening and we’re going to continue to do that.”

Evidence has been collected in investigating the calls, Staly said, but it’s not traditional evidence. He wouldn’t elaborate so as not to give away any leads. He said there have been similar swatting calls this year in Bay, Brevard, Duval, Escambia and MiamiDade counties.

“Nationwide, swatting calls have been received from Las Vegas to Nebraska, targeting everyone from political officials to college campuses,” he said. “These calls can be made from someone local to someone outside of the United States and anywhere in between, which makes it difficult to trace. But we are actively pursuing all leads in this investigation.”

Staly said one of the reasons for the press conference was to combat disinformation. He said there have been com-

ments on Facebook saying a gun was found during a search by deputies.

“No gun was found,” he said. “No bomb has been found, no suspicious package has been found, but they are getting what they’re trying to accomplish, a large response from law enforcement. I would encourage you, if you’re a parent, look at your kid’s phone. And if you see unusual phone calls being made, like to Nebraska,

or the numbers you don’t recognize, you might want to ask your child about that, just in case. And that would help us potentially.

“I want to ensure the parents, the grandparents and all residents of Flagler County that until an arrest is made and the threats stop, we will continue to treat each threat as if it’s real, and will respond accordingly,” he said. Email brent@observerlocal news.com.

13-YEAR-OLD ARRESTED FOR COPYCAT SCHOOL BOMB THREAT

A 13-year-old Daytona Beach boy was arrested May 17, after he called in a bomb threat to Buddy Taylor Middle School on a dare, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly reported in a press conference.

The boy, whose name is not being released by the Observer in harmony with Associated Press standards, was born Dec. 6, 2010. He was dared by a friend who is a student at Buddy Taylor, in Palm Coast. The boy, whose initials are J.S. and has not been a student at Buddy Taylor himself, told law enforcement that he made the call because he didn’t want to be a “punk” by not following through on his friend’s dare, Staly said. It was the fourth day in a row that a threatening call had been made to Buddy Taylor Middle School, but this incident was likely a copycat, Staly said. Investigations continue on the previous calls.

“I have a message to the young man that dared [J.S.]: Turn yourself in. Go to your parents, tell them what you did and turn yourself in because we will find you next,” Staly said.

The arrest comes after six previous bomb threats or shooting threats at four Flagler County schools between May 14 to May 17. Staly and Superintendent LaShakia Moore acknowledged the disruption and anxiety caused by the school lockdowns throughout the week.

“I know these ongoing threats to our schools are weighing heavily on our community,” Staly said, “so it is important that we keep the community informed and updated on developments as they occur.”

“I, too, appeal to the person who dared as well as who the original person is, to cut it out,” Moore said. “Our kids don’t deserve it.” Due to the threats, absenteeism has been high at Buddy Taylor, Moore said.

“It is the end of the year, but it’s not the last day,” Moore said, “so there are

“We will follow the lead of the Sheriff’s Office when it comes to the safety of our schools. But we’re not going to just put our kids in a room and not do the things that we have planned to do because someone is making these types of calls.”

LASHAKIA MOORE, Flagler Schools superintendent

TIMELINE

Bombing and shooting threats involving four schools in Flagler County were called into the Sheriff’s Office, but in all, six schools were involved.

After the first call threatened Buddy Taylor Middle School, Wadsworth Elementary School, which shares a campus with BTMS, was put on lockdown. On the morning of May 15, after another threat to BTMS, 25 bus loads of students were transported to Indian Trails Middle School, disrupting another campus.

“If it was a joke or a prank, it's not funny.” Superintendent LaShakia Moore said. “Not at all, because it does cause a disruption, but it also causes people to be fearful of what is happening.”

TUESDAY, MAY 14, 2:50 P.M.

A call was received at BTMS threatening to “shoot up” the school. Twentyfour FCSO units were dispatched to the school. The middle school students had already been released for the day, indicating the caller may not have been familiar with the school, Sheriff Rick Staly said. But Wadsworth was still in session and was placed on full lockdown as both schools were searched.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 7 A.M.

still lots of things happening. We have end-ofcourse exams, and we have promotions, graduations. As I stated [at yesterday’s press conference], it’s a parent’s right. A parent has to make the choice, if you continue to send them to school.”

Moore and Staly lamented how the incidents have likely ruined the typical end-of-year celebrations for many students.

The call from J.S. was received at Buddy Taylor at 10:47 a.m. May 17, stating, “The school will be blown up at 11.”

Nineteen Flagler Sheriff deputies, along with a multitude of other law enforcement and fire department units were deployed in response, Staly said.

After J.S. was located in Daytona Beach — holding the phone that made the threatening call — he was taken to the Volusia Regional Juvenile Detention Center, on three thirddegree felony charges. If he is tried as an adult, the charges would be punishable by a maximum of five years in state prison each.

“The callers might have technology that they’re using, but we’ve got technology, too,” Staly said.

“We are going to get you. We have the resources to hunt you down and arrest you, to put you where you belong.”

Staly said he would continue to pursue J.S.’s parents and fulfill Staly’s promise to make them pay for the expense of the investigation.

Staly reiterated his call to local parents: “I ask you to be the sheriff in your home. Be the sheriff to your kids. Talk to your kids about the seriousness of making threats. We take every threat seriously, and when we come knocking on your door, your kid is going to jail.” He added: “It takes a bigger person to walk away from the dare, than to do it.”

—BRIAN MCMILLAN

A similar threat to BTMS was made again, and 22 units responded. Buses were diverted to Indian Trails Middle School. The threat was unfounded, and students were bused back to BTMS.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2:45 P.M.

A caller told a dispatcher that they would shoot every police officer that responded to the call and they had placed two bombs inside Old Kings Elementary School.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 3:10 P.M.

A dispatcher received a call from the Lincoln, Nebraska, Police Department which received an anonymous call that contained threats of a shooting and two bombs at BTMS. The Lincoln police quickly notified the FCSO.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 3:17 P.M.

The Volusia County Sheriff's Office received a call saying two pipe bombs had been placed at either First Baptist Christian Academy or Suncoast Community School in Bunnell. Five FCSO units and two Bunnell Police Department units were dispatched.

THURSDAY, MAY 16, 6:50 A.M.

The VCSO received another call threatening a shooting and placing of bombs at BTMS. The FCSO dispatched 12 units and searched the school.

FRIDAY, MAY 17, 10:47 A.M.

Buddy Taylor Middle School received a call at 10:47 a.m. stating “The school will be blown up at 11.” The FCSO arrested a 13-year-old boy who told deputies he was dared by a friend to make the call. Nineteen Flagler Sheriff deputies, along with a multitude of other law enforcement and fire department units were deployed in response to the call.

MONDAY, MAY 20, 7:02 A.M.

BTMS was put on lock down after the FCSO received another threat against the school. Students were en route to the school at the time. The all-clear was given at 7:10 a.m.

MONDAY, MAY 20, 2:54 P.M.

The FCSO received a threat to Old Kings Elementary School. The school was put under Secure status. Parents were informed by Flagler Schools. The FCSO gave the all-clear at 3:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 7 A.M.

After a day’s reprieve on May 21, another bomb threat call came into BTMS, which was placed on Secure status. All clear was at 7:49 a.m.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore address the media May 17. Photo by Brian McMillan

Ormond, Hunter’s Ridge developer, Flagler County work toward resolution

The lawsuit was filed last year after the Ormond Beach City Commission found the developer to be in noncompliance with the 1991 Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

The city of Ormond Beach, Flagler County and the developer of Hunter’s Ridge are steps away from reaching a resolution in a lawsuit involv-

ing conservation lands and a road easement west of I-95. The Ormond Beach City Commission, the Flagler County Board of Commissioners and the developer, U.S. Capital Alliance, all met on Thursday, May 16,

to discuss a three-pronged approach to settling the lawsuit filed between the parties on Oct. 27, 2023. The lawsuit was filed after the commission found the developer to be in noncompliance with the 1991 Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact. This was due to the fact the developer has yet to grant almost 300 acres of conservation lands to the city and because it issued Flagler County a 60-foot wide road easement

for a logging road, known as the 40 Grade, in 2017.

After the lawsuit was filed, Flagler County invoked the Governmental Dispute Resolution Act, requiring a conflict assessment meeting — or mediation — between the governing bodies, alongside the National Audubon Society and the St. Johns River Water Management District.

“I do feel like we can work this out without litigating,” Flagler County attorney Sean Moylan said.

•

Moyland and attorney Cliff Shepard, who is representing Ormond Beach, proposed an agreement that would involve Flagler County deeding the road easement back to the city so that the developer can then convey the conservation parcel to the city, as required by the DRI. Once that is completed, then the city will convey to Flagler County an easement to access the 40 Grade for logging purposes. The easement would still span 60 feet wide to allow Flagler County to maintain the swales and keep the road functioning.

Shepard and Moylan also sought feedback from the commission on whether Flagler County should be allowed to shell the road as needed; the City Commission agreed. As part of the new easement to be granted to Flagler will be a provision that county staff give the city a heads up when they intend to use the 40 Grade, which spans one-third of a mile.

“The words that have been

used by us ... is not permission, but coordination,” Shepard said. “And it’s because, again, I cannot underscore this part enough from my client’s view — it’s our sovereign land, not yours.”

This would also allow the city, Shepard added, to ensure that anything Flagler County is doing won’t conflict with any operations the city has on deck in that area.

The city also previously claimed that the developer failed to prepare a hydroperiod restoration plan for the conservation lands. The developer has always argued this was done as dictated in the DRI. Shepard said that there was no evidence it was completed, but that St. Johns River Water Management District believed it was com-

pleted and no proof provided. The district is “OK” with it, Shepard said, so the city won’t pursue the matter further. Kim Booker, the attorney representing the developer, argued that the city has received reports on the DRI since 1991, and one of the reports indicated that the work was completed and that SJRWMD had a permit for it.

“The only issue was they could not find an as-built survey that was done back in that time, which we have ordered, so that we can present it to St Johns and close it out, because the weir and all the work is there on the ground and St. Johns has inspected it,” Booker said.

Booker also sought confirmation that the developer would retain rights to access to the conservation area for management responsibilities.

The developer, Shepard said, is also agreeable to dropping his compensation claim as part of the resolution for the lawsuit.

Mayor Bill Partington said he appreciated everyone coming together to seek a resolution.

“Obviously, 34 years ago, none of us, I don’t think, were here, and with new commissioners on both sides through the years, new attorneys on both sides through the years, new developers, it’s just turned into a Gordian knot that really was not looking good as far as a way to unwind, but with the hard work of counsel, we’ve been able to make a great deal of progress,” Partington said.

The Ormond Beach mayor hopes it will be an agreement that “will stand the test of time.” It won’t be the last time the city and Flagler County will need to work together on an issue due to their common boundary, said Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance.

“None of us will be here for eternity — it’s going to pass on to different people, and we just want to make sure something can live in perpetuity,” Dance said.

The Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact dates back to the 1990s. About 1,100 homes have been built so far. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Violating the Flagler County Commission’s emergency order could also entail up to 60 days in jail.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Flagler Couvnty Commission has unanimously approved an emergency order that makes damaging the county’s sand dunes a second-degree misdemeanor.

Violating the order is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail, according to meeting documents. County attorney Al Hadeed, a long-term champion of the county’s beach restoration projects, worked on creating the emergency order after people have continued to damage the newly restored dunes in the north end of the county.

Photos Hadeed showed the commission of recently restored dunes showed tracks of footprints crossing over the dunes, even, in some cases, directly next to the signs telling the public to stay off the dunes.

“This isn’t the solution that that we were eager to pursue,” Hadeed said, “but it’s like, you know, we’ve got to ramp up our efforts to protect these dunes.”

The commission approved the order in a 5-0 vote at its May 20 meeting. Once it is filed with the county clerk, the ruling automatically becomes law, he said. Hadeed said uniformed law enforcement as well as Citizens Observer Patrol members will patrol the beach areas and to both enforce and educate people on the new order.

Unlike an ordinance violation, which goes through code enforcement, Hadeed said the emergency order is enforced by law enforcement.

“This is a serious transgression for somebody to violate an emergency order,” he said. In 2023, the county began some of its dune restoration projects along the northern beach areas, like Varn Park and MalaCompra Park. Beginning in July, the United State Army Corps of Engineers will begin a major dune restoration on several miles of Flagler County’s shoreline.

Hadeed said a key part of preserving the dunes is allowing the planted vegetation time to take root. When people walk over the dunes, it not only damages the sand but destroys that vegetation, too, he said.

“People think they can do whatever they want,” he said.

Flagler Beach, he said, has had a lot of success with its “robust education” efforts to keep people off the dunes and use the walkovers instead. But because the county’s other beaches are significantly less populated, there’s no one around to educate or stop the people who walk across the dunes.

Commission Chair Andy Dance likened the dunes to county infrastructure.

“Education, though, is going to be critical as well,” Dance said. “We have to have an education campaign that goes along with this to be effective.”

Hadeed agreed and said the county will need to place more signs out as well. Email sierra@observer localnews.com.

School Board approves health center

The clinic will provide primary care, testing and labs and dispense prescriptions.

Three Flagler County School Board members said they originally opposed an insurance committee recommendation to provide a dedicated health care center for district employees.

They all changed their minds, and the board unanimously voted on May 21 to enter into negotiations with Everside Health to establish and run the new clinic, which will provide primary care, testing and labs and dispensing prescriptions — all for free.

The cost of providing the center seemed prohibitive, board members Colleen Conklin, Cheryl Massaro and Will Furry said, but the promise is that it will reduce employee insurance claims in the long run and thus keep health insurance rates from spiraling out of control in the future.

The district’s two unions entered into an MOU (memorandum of understanding)

approving an insurance rate hike of about 7.5% across the board for the 2024-25 school year after three years of no increases. The School Board approved the MOU after voting in favor of the health care center.

Both unions solidly supported the MOU with 72% of the teachers’ union members voting in favor and 86% of the professional support union members voting to ratify.

Elisabeth Dias, president of the Flagler County Educators Association (the teachers’ union) spoke in public comment at the beginning of the meeting, telling the board that union members acknowledged the necessity “to not bankrupt our self-insurance fund.” But they were concerned about the rising rates before entering into next year’s salary negotiations. For that reason, she encouraged the board to approve the health care center.

Board member Colleen Conklin said she was going to vote against the clinic, but she changed her mind because of overwhelming support by district employees.

But Conklin and all four of the other board members warned employees that the health care facility would only be beneficial if it is utilized in

large numbers.

“If we do not use it, then it is for naught,” Conklin said. “The purpose of doing this is to get hold of some of the numbers and drive down our cost. But it’s not going to help if we don’t utilize it.”

Cheryl Massaro said she “was a no, but there’s no other real option to control health insurance.”

The health care center will have a staff of three including a primary care provider and two medical assistants. Everside estimated startup costs alone to be $164,900 with the cost after the first year estimated at $824,982 and the cumulative cost after five years at $3,737,954. That’s if the district provides a space to house the facility. If it has to lease a space, the cost will be higher. But Everside estimates a cumulative health care savings of $7,811,536 after five years.

For health insurance next year, the district will play $590.22 a month per employee. Employee contributions for standard employee-only insurance will be $95.42. But employee plus spouse goes up to $1,085.95 a month and employee plus family $1,446.26. The premium tier for employee plus family will be 2,004.74 a month.

BRIEFS

Volusia seeks input on proposed public transit fare increases

The Volusia County Transit Services Division will host a series of public meetings in the coming two months to gather community input on proposed fare increases.

If approved by the Volusia County Council, these proposed increases would be the first fare adjustments since 2015 and take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. In addition to public meetings, community members can provide feedback through various channels, including direct submissions on buses, via the Votran website, or by mail. This multi-faceted approach ensures that all residents have an opportunity to share their views on the proposed fare changes.

“The proposed increase will allow us to maintain a high level of service across all of our forms of public transportation in the county,” Transit Services Director Bobbie King said. “We are confident that even with the proposed increases, Votran will continue to be a competitive transportation option.”

Proposed fares to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025:

„ Base Fare for Fixed-Route Service: $2

„ Day Pass: $4

COPS CORNER

MAY 13 MISSING VALUABLES

10:45 a.m. — First block of Cypress Grove Lane, Ormond Beach Larceny. A 76-year-old Ormond Beach woman reported four jewelry pieces — valued at an estimated $6,200 — have been missing from her home for the last few months. Her suspect? A cleaning crew. Police report that the woman said she last saw the jew-

„ Reduced Day Pass: $2

„ Three-Day Pass: $8

„ Three-Day Reduced Pass:

$4

„ Seven-Day Pass: $15

„ Seven-Day Reduced Pass:

$7

„ 31 Day Pass: $50

„ 31-Day Reduced Pass: $25

„ 10-Ride Pass and 10-Ride Reduced Pass: Discontinued „ Votran Gold Paratransit Service: $4

„ VoRide:$2 per trip for rides under eight miles (no change)

Additional $1 surcharge for rides between eight and 15 miles. Additional $2 surcharge for rides over 15 miles. Last fiscal year, Transit Services recorded over two million boardings, marking a 38% increase from the previous year. Federal and state grants, fare collections, and the county General Fund support Votran’s $30 million budget. The proposed fare increase is projected to boost annual revenues by approximately $740,000. King further explained the county’s commitment to efficiency and cost-saving measures, such as coordinating fuel purchases, launching VoRide, optimizing Gold Service trips, and maximizing grant funds utilization. Votran operates debt-free with no unfunded liabilities. Details about the proposed fare changes and ability to submit comments are available on all Votran buses, at the customer service booth at the Transfer Plaza, and at

elry items in November 2023 and that she noticed them missing in February, according to an incident report. The only people she said that have been inside her home, other than she and her husband, is a cleaning crew. Though, she told police she had never had an issue with the owner. The woman told police she called the owner about the issue and “was met with an attitude,” the report states. The woman said she heard someone in the background say, “I don’t go through people’s drawers,” which surprised her, since she never specified where the items

the Votran Office. Feedback can also be submitted electronically through the Votran website via the “Contact Us” page, and comment cards can be handed to bus operators or mailed to Votran at 950 Big Tree Road, South Daytona, FL 32119.

The first public meetings will be held on Monday, June 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. at the Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway.

Lightnin’ Epton, namesake of Speedway ticket office, dies at 103

Juanita “Lightnin’” Epton, who worked at the Daytona International Speedway ticket office since it opened, died on Thursday, May 16, at the age of 103.

“Lightnin’ Epton and her husband Joe were part of my mom and dad, Bill and Anne France’s, team from the early days of NASCAR. They were scoring races, selling tickets and did every other job that needed to be done,” NASCAR CEO Jim France said in a statement. “Lightnin’ was beloved by our staff, fans and drivers alike. Our family will miss Lightnin’ tremendously and our thoughts are with her family and friends as we celebrate her life.”

Joe gave Lightnin’ her nickname after they got married, saying he never knew when

were stored. Police told her they would reach out if they had further questions.

MAY 19 CAUGHT ‘PANTS’-HANDED 11:17 a.m. — First block of Boxwood Lane, Palm Coast Petit theft. A Palm Coast man was arrested after he was caught having stolen his homeowner’s car and his roommate’s wallet and pants.

The roommate told Sheriff’s Office deputies he was visiting from North Carolina and noticed something amiss when he came out of the shower, according to an arrest

Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline

BY: DR. INDIRA ALVAREZ

Why do we lose our hearing as we get older?

Many factors can contribute to hearing loss as you get older. It can be difficult to distinguish age-related hearing loss from hearing loss that can occur for other reasons, such as long-term exposure to noise. Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by long-term exposure to sounds that are either too loud or last too long. This kind of noise exposure can damage the sensory hair cells in your ear that allow you to hear. Once these hair cells are damaged, they do not grow back and your ability to hear is diminished. Conditions that are more common in older people, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, can contribute to hearing loss. Medications that are toxic to the sensory cells in your ears (for example, some chemotherapy drugs) can also cause hearing loss.

Rarely, age-related hearing loss can be caused by abnormalities of the outer ear or middle ear. Such abnormalities may include

reduced function of the tympanic membrane (the eardrum) or reduced function of the three tiny bones in the middle ear that carry sound waves from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear. Most older people who experience hearing loss have a combination of both age related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss. Can I prevent age-related hearing loss?

At this time, scientists don’t know how to prevent age-related hearing loss. However, you can protect yourself from noise-induced hearing loss by protecting your ears from sounds that are

and where she’d strike. In August, 2022, the speedway renamed the Ticket and Tours building the “Lightnin’ Epton Ticket Office.”

She was one of the first people to walk down the staircase of the new speedway when it opened in 1959. But her history with NASCAR and the France family started long before then. Joe and Lightnin’ met NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. in 1945 at the fairgrounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where Joe was scoring races.

“The Eptons worked from the Carolinas, coming to Daytona Beach to help with races on the beach, and ultimately moving to Florida for the opening of Daytona International Speedway,” Jim France said. “She worked alongside our family from the very first Daytona 500 through this year’s 66th running of the race, bringing an incredible passion for the track to the ticket office every day.”

Ralph Lightfoot wins Hosts of Palm Coast’s Pacesetter Award

Palm Coast resident Ralph Lightfoot was presented with the Pacesetter Award at the Hosts of Palm Coast Spring Gala, held at the Lake Mary Marriott on May 5. Jim Griffin, chairperson of the Hosts of Palm Coast Awards Committee, said Lightfoot was selected for this honor because of his many years of selfless service to the Palm Coast community.

In addition to his tireless efforts on behalf of Flagler County Democratic politics, the Flagler County Mosquito commissioner has also been a dedicated volunteer with the African American Mentoring Program, the NAACP, and the Democratic Black Caucus.

Mr. Lightfoot also chaired the Flagler Palm Coast High School Parents Booster Club, and he conducted high school equivalency classes at the

report. He said he noticed his pants were missing and that the room’s window had been opened from the outside. The window screen was found on the ground outside.

The roommate said he was sharing the room with the suspect. Along with his pants, he said, his wallet, with $120 cash, and keys were also missing, which he’d left in his pants pocket.

The deputies spoke to the homeowner who said the suspect also lived at the home. The homeowner told deputies that the suspect had also stolen the homeowner’s car.

The suspect was found

too loud and last too long. It’s important to be aware of potential sources of damaging noises, such as loud music, firearms, snowmobiles, lawn mowers, and leaf blowers. Avoiding loud noises, reducing the amount of time you’re exposed to loud noise, and protecting your ears with ear plugs or ear muffs are easy things you can do to protect your hearing and limit the amount of hearing you might lose as you get older.

What to do in case you have trouble hearing?

Hearing problems can be serious. The most important thing you can do if you think you have a hearing problem is to seek advice from an audiologist. At Palm Coast Hearing Center, our doctors have the expertise to evaluate you and recommend appropriate treatment and follow-up. We can counsel you and your

Carver Gym in Bunnell, where he also provided the necessary books and materials for those classes. He currently provides computer technology services for the African American Cultural Society at no charge. These are just a few of the many organizations that have benefited from Mr. Lightfoot’s dedication to the Palm Coast community. The Hosts of Palm Coast Awards Committee sought to honor someone who exemplified good citizenship, enriched the lives of others, showed ongoing initiative and devoted themselves to selfless service.

Flagler Palm

Coast Kiwanis Club honors local law enforcement

The Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club awarded plaques to three local law enforcement officers at its 18th annual Law Enforcement Luncheon on May 15, the club announced in a press release. The three honorees were Bunnell Police Detective Jeff Traylor, Flagler Beach Police Officer Maria Guerrero and Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Detention Cpl. Peter Descartes. With all three honorees absent, the awards were accepted by Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and Flagler Beach Chief Matt Doughney, respectively.

driving along State Road 100 in the homeowner’s car with the roommate’s pants and wallet in the passenger seat.

FRIENDS IN LOW PLACES

6:50 p.m. — State Road 100 and Memorial Medical Parkway intersection DUI. A man on a store run who borrowed a motorcycle from a friend was originally pulled over for lane splitting but found himself under investigation for a stolen tag.

A Sheriff’s Office deputy spotted the motorcyclist splitting lanes at a traffic light and noticed the license plate was not clearly visible.

family to help you preserve your hearing health. It is important to understand that not all places that offer “hearing tests” are the same. Many of those places that offer “free hearing tests” and advertise only hearing aids do not offer comprehensive hearing health care. It is important that you seek a Doctor of Audiology for your care- an Audiologist is college-degreed and licensed professional trained to evaluate your complete hearing health, understanding the many significant comorbidities associated with hearing loss and how they affect your diagnosis and treatment. Comorbidities like dementia, cognitive impairment, depression, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, fall risk and more. The connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline

A 2016 study analyzing health insurance claims of 154,783 seniors concluded that hearing impairment increases the risk of dementia and that to some extent this happens regardless of medical treatment. Though the

After pulling over the driver and running the tag, the deputy asked the driver why the tag came up registered to another vehicle. The man answered that he didn’t know, saying the bike actually belonged to his friend, who let him borrow it for a quick errand.

The motorcycle did not come up as stolen, but that’s when the deputy noticed the driver was flushed, had glossy eyes and was acting fidgety. After performing a sobriety test, the driver was arrested on a DUI charge and cited for several traffic violations.

authors said hearing aids might delay or prevent dementia, they didn’t have details on whether patients were prescribed hearing aids or were using them regularly.

However, a 2017 article in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience cited two studies that found people wearing hearing aids improved their performance on cognitive tests. The article said hearing aids, when prescribed at the beginning of age-related hearing loss, can postpone cognitive side effects.

Most types of hearing loss occur gradually over time making it hard for you or a loved one to notice there has been a change in hearing. Just like vision and dental care it is always a good idea to have your hearing health evaluated once per year.

Ralph and Agnes Lightfoot with Hosts of Palm Coast President Shelley Ragsdale (center). Courtesy photo

CELEBRATE NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH

Open Your Heart and Home

Many people recall their youth as a time of fun, learning, and growth. But for hundreds of local children and teens, this critically formative time has brought the suffering of abuse, abandonment, and neglect. These kids have entered the foster care system through no fault of their own, but because of the trauma they have experienced. They need caring foster parents now to love them, nurture them, and show them a more positive way of life.

May is National Foster Care Month, making this the perfect time to reflect on foster parents’ vital role in our community. Foster parents provide a loving, temporary refuge when youth need it most. They offer a safe place for the children to heal until they can safely reunite with their families – the goal whenever possible – or transition to another permanent living situation such as adoption. Foster parents can truly make a difference for a lifetime in a relatively short time.

Foster parents are everyday heroes, but it would be a mistake to put them on a pedestal and think that you could never foster. Despite the common myths about fostering – such as that you must be rich, married, or a homeowner – the basic requirements are straightforward: being a legal Florida resident who is at least 21 years of age, who has the heart and ability to care for chil-

dren, who can pay their bills, and who has adequate room and beds in the home. Foster parents must also pass a background check, complete a home study, and undergo helpful training. Please ask yourself if you feel called to foster. Then call 386238-4900 today to learn more, or visit CommunityPartnershipForChildren.org for frequently asked questions, an overview of the licensing process, and how to begin your fostering journey.

Pumphouse BBQ wins ‘Best Burger’

The Ormond Beach barbecue restaurant celebrated a back-toback Ormond Burger Week win.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

For the second year in a row, Pumphouse BBQ in Ormond Beach was recognized for having the “Best Burger” in town.

The local barbecue restaurant was voted as this year’s winner of the Ormond Burger Week competition, held May 4-12. A total of 17 restaurants participated in the competition, which was founded last year by members of Realty Pros Assured and Realty Pro Title. Each of the restaurants created an off-menu burger and offered it for $10 during the competition dates for customers to try.

Newly opened Alexander’s took second place with its “Loaded Burger.” In third place was 31 Supper Club with its Mauna Loa Burger.

Pumphouse BBQ owner Rob West said their back-to-back win feels “amazing and humbling.”

“We’re just blown away,” West said. “We love this event. It brings everybody out. The whole community gets involved and we just love our community. We try to do the best burger can do and it’s just fun for us.”

Pumphouse BBQ’s entry for the competition was a burger with an 8-ounce burger patty topped with pepper jack cheese, chopped brisket, applewood smoked bacon, 1000 island homemade dressing, lettuce, tomato, onion and a pickle on a toasted bacon brioche bun. It was the creation of Chef Bryan Brymer,

and he deserves all the credit, West said. The burger will be added to the restaurant’s menu, like last year’s winning Cuban sandwich-inspired

He said he saw at least double the amount of engagement compared to last year — and the numbers agree with his observations.

Last year, the 14 competing restaurants sold about 1,400 burgers, with Pumphouse BBQ selling about 250.

This year, the 17 restaurants sold a total of 3,350 burgers, according to the Burger Week committee. Pumphouse BBQ sold 596 burgers. When people came into the restaurant, West said, they would often speak about the

burgers they had tried so far and what flavor notes stood out to them.

“It was really cool to see how people got involved this year and I can’t wait for next year,” West said. “I think it’s going to be even bigger.”

Pumphouse BBQ keeps last year’s trophy inside a glass case on top of their new bar, which was recently expanded. West joked they may have to build a shelf to display their trophies from now on.

“We’re super proud of what we accomplished and we’ll definitely put our trophies up and let everybody know we’re thankful for (them) coming out and trying our burger, and voting for us,” West said.

Over 18,000 people have moved to Flagler County and are new voters in Florida since the last Presidential election. If you a new resident, you probably have many questions about the elections this year!

• Am I registered to vote?

• Where do I vote in person?

• How do I vote by mail?

• How do I update my address or name?

• How do I change my party affiliation?

• Who are my elected officials?

• Are elections in Flagler County secure?

Visit FlaglerElections.gov or scan the QR code to have all your questions answered!

Pumphouse BBQ owner Rob West and Chef Bryan Brymer celebrate their back to back win. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

A house in Beachwalk tops sales list in Flagler

Ahouse in Beachwalk was the top real estate transaction for March 28 to April 3 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. Richmond American Homes of Florida, LP, of Jacksonville, sold 30 Moana Court South to Marcial and Caroline Oxamendi, of Palm Coast, for $593,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,146 square feet.

feet.

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 36 Bogey Place to Eric Coombs, of Bunnell, for $321,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,655 square feet.

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 38 Bogey Place to James Francis Turner, II, of Bunnell, for $337,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,778 square feet.

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 1 Caddy Court to Julio and Dayira Guzman, of Bunnell, for $328,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,778 square feet.

PALM COAST

Beachwalk

Richmond American Homes of Florida, LP, of Jacksonville, sold 61 Moana Court West to Gary Raymond Clause and Nancy Clause, of Palm Coast, for $504,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,800 square

Richmond American Homes of Florida, LP, of Jacksonville, sold 55 Moana Court West to Paul and Marcia Barnette, of Palm Coast, for $560,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3.5 and has 2,550 square feet.

Indian Trails LGI Homes – Florida, LLC, of The Woodlands, Texas, sold 151 Birchwood Drive to Christine Marie Foster and Jeffery Lamar Foster, of Palm Coast, for $378,900. Built in 2023, the house is a 5/3 and has 1,984 square feet.

Lehigh Woods Seagate Homes, LLC, of Palm Coast, sold 4 Rydell Lane to Rob Young, of Palm Coast, for $397,900. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,208 square feet.

Pine Grove Seagate Homes, LLC, of Palm Coast, sold 78 Pittman Drive to Jo Ann Nowell, of Palm Coast, for $339,900. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,673 square feet.

PCRE5 LLC, of St. Augustine, sold 16 Pope Lane to Giuseppe Scaffidi-Fonti, of Montgomery, New York, for $390,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2.5 and has 2,062 square feet.

Sawmill Branch

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 34 Lumber Jack Trail to Shara Holt, of Palm Coast, for $400,400. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,363 square feet.

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 23 Hulett Woods Road to Renison Kirkpatrick Bucknor and Sharon Denise Bucknor, of Palm Coast, for $358,500. Built in 2023, the house is a 5/3 and has 2,500 square feet.

D.R. Horton, Inc., of St. Johns, sold 17 West Sawmill Court to Micheal Trainor, Bobbie Jo Trainor and JoAnn Livingston, of Palm Coast, for $387,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,033 square feet.

Seminole Woods

Holiday Builders, Inc., of Melbourne, sold 445 Underwood Trail to Juan Carlos Varon Jr and Katherine Rose Ruisanchez, of Palm Coast, for $333,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,134 square feet.

Seagate Homes, LLC, of Palm Coast, sold 6 Sentinel Court to Stephanie Kennedy, of Palm Coast, for $393,900. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,992 square feet.

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

Plantation Bay home is Ormond’s top sale

Ahouse in Plantation Bay was the top real estate transaction for April 7-13 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. Mark and Linda Hodgson, of Ormond Beach, sold 1032 Hampstead Lane to Stacy Patyk, of Ormond Beach, for $835,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool and 2,666 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $425,000.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ORMOND BEACH

Charleston Square

Sheila Carter, of Ormond Beach, sold 24 Charleston Square to Roxanne Olsen, of Ormond Beach, for $315,000. Built in 1986, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,231 square feet. It sold in 1999 for $78,900.

Halifax Plantation

Anne Scarano, of Sheridan, Indiana, sold 3102 Connemara Drive to Steven and Laura Berger, of Ormond Beach, for $435,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub and 2,014 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $239,000.

Not in a subdivision Richard Littlejohn, of Ormond Beach, sold 130 Hernandez Ave. to Hunter Fermill, of Ormond Beach, for $689,900. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool and 2,292 square feet.

Melrose

Larry King, Sr., as trustee, sold 295 Grove Street to Kristy Dawn Patterson, of

Ormond Beach, for $214,000. Built in 1945, the house is a 2/1 and has 724 square feet. It sold in 1994 for $57,000.

Northbrook

Allen and Pamela Thomas, of Ormond beach, sold 1301 Wandering Oaks to David Schroder and Kaye Ann Schroder, of Ormond Beach, for $430,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,982 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $252,000.

Oak Forest Jan and Anthony Greggo, of Ponce Inlet, sold 1530 North Beach Street to Brendon and Danielle Cook, of Flagler Beach, for $459,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,106 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $400,000.

Ormond Golfridge

Eric James Mobley and Jetoya Aleesea Mobley, of Ormond Beach, sold 74 Broadmoor Circle to Thomas Walters, of Ormond Beach, for $330,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,617 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $250,000.

The Trails Larry Massey, as trustee, sold 11 Soco Trails to Caitlin Elizabeth Highfield and Heather Lynn Highfield, of Ormond Beach, for $310,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,439 square feet. It sold in 2009 for $100,000.s

Trails North Forty Lynda Vega and Jenise Harter, of Ormond Beach, Jeffrey Cullers, of Daytona Beach, and Christina Hurley, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, sold 214 Deer Lake Circle to Ruben Rodriguez, of Ormond Beach, for $349,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,858 square feet. It sold in 2009 for $154,900.

Woodmere Ralph Gerstner and Heikoprop, LLC, of Ormond Beach, sold 932 Parkwood Drive to Moms & Jo Investments, LLC, of Port Orange, for $251,500. Built in 1965, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,791 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $90,000.

ORMOND BY THE SEA Ocean Shores Lisa Sanborn, as trustee, and Anne Harrison, as co-trustee, sold 33 Ocean Shore Drive to Nancy Lynn Staff and Michael Antonio Martinez, of Tallahassee, for $274,000. Built in 1955, the house is a 2/1 and has 756 square feet. It sold in 1988 for $52,000.

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

PALM COAST

ORMOND BEACH

LETTERS

Seniors shut out with Swim + Racquet Club decision

Dear Editor:

My wife and I moved to Palm Coast in 1991. It was and still is touted as a good place to retire. As we were enjoying our new home, we met and made new friends. Soon after our relocation, we joined Frieda Zamba (pool) for gym classes along with our new friends. After a period of time we transferred to Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club to continue our “gym family” and the social relationships we acquired.

The years following proved fruitful, our exercise was continuing and our social calendar was being enhanced. Now BTS&R; Club (memberships are) being shut down completely as of June 30 by the powers that be, and for whatever avenues they have chosen is beyond me and many others. Though Palm Coast is a good place to retire, the present attendees have to break up the social aspect because they are “mostly seniors.” They are being shut out of a facility that was given to Palm Coast some time ago — a gift. Yet on the horizon, we hear there will be built

TRIBUTES

Rose M. Hottinger

February 5, 1951 - May 7, 2024

Rose M. Hottinger, age 73, passed from this life into the waiting arms of her savior Jesus on the morning of Tuesday May 7, 2024 in Palm Coast, Florida.

Rose was born on February 5, 1951 in the Bronx, New York to the late Frank Catania & Mary (Giordano) Catania. She was baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in the Bronx and a graduate of Washingtonville High School in Washingtonville, New York. After working for a short time on Wall Street, Rose met and later married Richard A. Hottinger. She soon after left the workforce to concentrate on raising their family. Rose and Rich moved to Palm Coast, full-time, in August 1996 from Mahopac, New York. She was an avid golfer & bowler – the Hottinger family loved to golf together and bowl together, as a family - from their time back in Mahopac through their time in Palm Coast. Rose was a fully active member of the Hammock Dunes Club since 1992 and a member of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Palm Coast.

Rose’s beautiful smile was her calling card… it would truly light up any room she entered and brighten the mood of anyone that was privileged to see it. Always the true life of any gathering, Rose lived an amazing & full life. She enjoyed being with her friends and she absolutely adored time with her family and the ability to express her joy of cooking for family get-togethers and holidays.

Left to cherish their memories of Rose are her husband & partner of over 52 years, Richard A. Hottinger; a son, Richard (wife, Robin) Hottinger; a daughter, Nikki Pennella (Ryan); 2 grandchildren, Richie & Jacob; 4 brothers Richard (wife, Jackie) Catania, Frankie Cat-

a YMCA and a humongous costly recreation center. What I really don’t understand, the aforementioned project will take time as well as money, when at the present, the existing facility could very well have been better supervised. I am opposed to closing the Belle Terre Swim Club to public membership!

WALTER BIGAMS Palm Coast

Money for dredging should be available

Dear Editor: These canals need to be cleaned out. Erosion from unwalled land, grass ille-

ania, Ronnie Catania & John Catania; many nieces, nephews & extended family members and all of the countless friends that she has made over the years.

A service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday May 24, 2024 in the chapel of Clymer Funeral Home & Cremations, 39 Old Kings Rd., N., Palm Coast, FL 32137. The family will receive friends for visiting from 4:00 p.m. until service hour.

The funeral mass will be a private, family function.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rose’s name to the Dementia Society of America, www.DementiaSociety. org/donate or by mail to: Dementia Society of America – P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.

The family of Mrs. Hottinger have entrusted her arrangements to Clymer Funeral Home & Cremations.

gally blown in canals by lawn cutters and tree cutters. The home owners in the C section pay the highest property tax to live on the canals. We pay taxes on the seawalls, docks, boat lifts and boat house roofs.

Over the last 20 years, 20-plus million dollars should be available for dredging. Not all areas need it. A report the city made in 2020 and 2022 states the city owns the canals and is responsible for their maintenance. (See Editor’s Note below.)

Through our drinking water bill we pay the dredging of the fresh water canals. Also on the same billing is the swale charges which includes dredging the salt water canals. Never been done. Where is that money and the dock, seawall, boat lift and dock tax money going?

We live on the canals and see every day what goes on with them. The City Council members do not live on the canals. The one member who stated we should have an extra tax base to have the canals dredged only moved here to run for the council District 2 (seat) and has no clue about the canals.

It’s like the statement City Chief of Staff Jason DeLorenzo made that the people in the lower houses need to pay to fix the flooding from the higher houses. He previously held the role of Government Affairs Director for the Flagler Homebuilders Association for 10 years.

The District 2 Council member is also the one who tried to railroad the franchise fee through. With the amount of pork and baloney produced here, Boar’s Head

could back their trucks up and fill them. Candidate Alan Lowe came up with a plan and documents that showed over a three-year period the areas that need dredging could be done for $7 million — a method that has the dredged material piped to trucks on the street, filtered then clean water returned. This method does away with big barges and tug boat expenses. The council never considered it. Money was spent for Taylor Engineering, $400,000, to survey the canals. It was done at high tide and was very tainted. It did not show any of the problem areas. The owner would not discuss it with any of the C section residents.

GARY KUNNAS Palm Coast

Editor’s note: The Observer reached out to both the Property Appraiser’s office and the city of Palm Coast about several statements in the above letter. Regarding the taxes on the canals, residents whose homes lie on the canals typically have higher property values and thus pay more in taxes, but do not pay any additional, separate taxes on their docks, boat lifts, etc. Palm Coast Director Of Communications and Marketing Brittany Kershaw said the stormwater fee rate on the water bills does not include any fee for dredging the saltwater canals. Residents along the canals are responsible for the maintenance of their seawalls as they are owned by the homeowner.

HUMANE SOCIETY’S ADOPTABLE PETS

The Flagler Humane Society is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1 Shelter Drive in Palm Coast. Adoption fees vary based on the animal. The

shelter has both dogs and cats for adoption. Contact FHS at 386-445-1814 or visit flaglerhumanesociety.org.

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

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

Tigger, 6

Wilma, 2

Gideon, 5

‘Their legacies are eternal’

Volusia, Flagler law enforcement agencies honor the fallen in annual ceremony.

JARLEENE

ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

On most days, law enforcement officers wear their badges with pride and dignity, said Ponce Inlet Mayor Lois Paritsky. But on Thursday, May 16, as officers gathered from agencies across Volusia and Flagler counties for their annual memorial service, she said their badges were covered with mourning ribbons for the fallen.

“They became heroes long before we lost them,” she said. “They chose a life of public service and all that went with it. They live their lives as guardians and protectors of our families, our communities and our very way of life. As we assemble here today, let us remember that the measure of a life is not simply in years, but in how those years were lived.”

The Volusia Flagler Law Enforcement Memorial Service was held at Daytona Memorial Park and honored 37 local officers and 2 K-9s who have died since 1895, with the most recent loss being Cpl. Michael Bakaysa, of the Ormond Beach Police Department. Bakaysa, 54, died in December 2023 after a medical incident following a training session.

OBPD also paid tribute to Officer Robert Grim, who died in 2004 after he was struck by a vehicle while investigating a crash. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office honored five of its fallen officers: Sheriff Perry Hall and Deputy Sheriff George Dur-

Vietnam veteran,

Facing medical hurdles, Vietnam War veteran Joe Munsch and his partner Maddie find support from a local service provider.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The last two months have been a nightmare for Maddie Munsch and her 81-year-old partner, U.S. Army Veteran Joe Munsch.

He was first hospitalized in April and then sent to a rehab facility in Palm Coast where he was neglected, Maddie Munsch said. His fiveday stay left him essentially nonresponsive, she said, and he ended up being hospitalized again after falling overnight.

After the second hospitalization, Maddie Munsch said, he was sent to another facility, this time in St. Augustine, where he was once again neglected. She said she was finally able to bring him home on May 5. Joe Munsch’s health took a downturn over the May 19 weekend. But helping her through it all, she said, has been Seniors Helping Seniors.

Seniors Helping Seniors is an athome senior-care services provider,

family

rance, who both died in 1927; Deputy Sheriff Charles T. Sease, who died in 2003; Sgt. Francesco Luigi Celico, who died in 2011; and Deputy First Class Paul Luciano, who died in 2021. These fallen officers, said Paritsky, the service’s guest speaker, answered

the call of duty and put their lives on the line every day.

“They chose a noble profession that demanded unwavering bravery and commitment,” she said. “They knew the risks, yet they embrace their work with resolve, driven by a

deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. While their own lives may have ended for too soon, their legacies are eternal.”

The community’s support for law enforcement is recognizable, said Ponce Inlet Police Chief Jeff Glazier. The ceremony, he said, is for the families of the fallen officers.

“May we never forget their courage, their bravery and their commitment to being the peacemakers in our society,” Glazier said. “May we never forget sacrifices that they’ve made and may their memories always be a blessing.”

find comfort through Seniors Helping Seniors

offering a range of services from simple companionship and socialization to respite and specialized care. The company helps seniors across Flagler, St. Johns and Volusia counties through its caregivers, who are able-bodied seniors themselves.

Ormond Beach resident Mike Walters, owner of Seniors Helping Seniors for Flagler, St. Johns and Volusia counties, said he just wants to ensure people know what their options are.

“A lot of times we do everything that you would do for your own mom or dad or spouse or loved one,” Walters said.

Walters said he sees a lot of stories like Maddie Munsch’s, where a family member orients their life around taking care of their sick loved one.

And Seniors Helping Seniors is one of multiple companies that works with Veterans Affairs to aid the nation’s 16.5 million veterans. Over 8 million veterans are over 65 years old, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Joe Munsch served in the Vietnam War in 1967 and 1968 as a door gunner. While there he was exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide used in the war to kill foliage. Agent Orange has been connected to multiple illnesses and diseases over the years, according to the VA website.

MONDAY, MAY 27

PALM COAST MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

When: 8 a.m.

Where: Heroes Memorial Park, 2860 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast

THURSDAY, MAY 23

16TH ANNUAL MEET THE MAYORS

When: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Where: Flagler County Association of Realtors, 4101 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell

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

FRIDAY, MAY 24

PUPPY PALS LIVE

When: 7 p.m.

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

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

Details: The city of Palm Coast is hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to the U.S. military. Mayor David Alfin will open with remarks, and the Palm Coast Fire Department Honor Guard, Matanzas High School Junior ROTC, and Marine Corps League Detachment 876 will conduct ceremonial duties. The Community Chorus of Palm Coast will also perform patriotic songs. Parking is available along Corporate Drive and at the library.

ORMOND BEACH MEMORIAL DAY

REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

When: 9 a.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Join the city of Ormond Beach Department of Leisure Services, The Memorial Remembrance Committee, American Legion Post 267 and American Legion Unit 267 for this free annual remembrance service. The service will include patriotic music, guest speakers, a wreath-laying ceremony and a moment of silence. All are welcome.

Among Munsch’s illnesses, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and, more recently, congestive heart failure. Maddie Munsch said she’s been her partner’s sole caregiver for years, sleeping or doing housework when he sleeps.

Maddie Munsch said she heard about Seniors Helping Seniors through a friend who is an attorney. Originally, she said, the VA would only pay for someone to come by for several hours, one day a week.

That began in March and the company sent over caregiver Scott Tucker to be Joe Munsch’s companion and to offer some respite for Maddie Munsch.

Right away, the two clicked, she said.

Tucker said Seniors Helping Seniors has a thorough survey pro-

FLAGLER COUNTY’S

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Flagler County Government Services Building, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell

Details: Flagler County’s Memorial Day Ceremony will feature retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark Thieme as guest speaker. Local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts will lead attendees in the pledge of allegiance. Melanie DeMartino will sing the national anthem.

THURSDAY, MAY 30

YOGALATES

When: 10 a.m.

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

Details: The Environmental Discovery Center is hosting a free beginner level yogalates class by Victoria Bennett. Chairs available. Mats recommended. Space is limited. Call 386-615-7081.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

CALVARY CHRISTIAN CENTER FOOD DROP

When: 11 a.m.

Where: Calvary Christian Center, 1687 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond

Beach

Details: Calvary Christian Center will hold a free community food drop for people in need.

cess and connects senior patients with senior caregivers through their shared likes.

“I just can’t believe how perfectly it worked out,” he said. “He’s more my friend and pal than he is a patient.”

Tucker said he’s been watching Joe Munsch’s ups and downs over the months, offering comfort and help to Maddie Munsch wherever he can and visiting Joe Munsch in the hospital and rehabilitation facility. Now, after Joe Munsch’s multiple hospitalizations and rehabilitation stints, the VA pays for Tucker to be there for up to 36 hours each week.

Just as importantly, Walters said, Tucker’s presence is safe and reli-

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

ORMOND BEACH HISTORICAL

SOCIETY BUS TOUR

When: 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Ormond Beach Historical Society, 38 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Join the Ormond Beach Historical Society on a two-hour tour of the scenic Ormond Loop. See The Casements, the 500-year-old Fairchild Oak at Bulow Creek State Park, the Ormond Yacht Club, the Anderson-Price Memorial Building, Pilgrim’s Rest Church, the Ormond Timucua Burial Mound, the Three Chimneys Sugar Mill ruins, historic homes and more. Tickets cost $30 per person. Visit ormondhistory.org/ historic-bus-tours.

VENDOR SHOW AND FOOD DRIVE

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell Details: Peruse wares by over 100 local vendors and food trucks. There will also be a DJ. The event is aimed at helping filling the Grace Community Food Pantry. Bring food items for donation.

ORMOND ART WALK

When: 3-7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery,

able and allows Maddie Munsch to feel comfortable leaving the house for the time he’s there.

“That’s a big part of what people like Scott do,” Walters said. “Just to have that what they call respite — that relief — to just sit out on the front porch and breathe for a second.”

“The only relief that I had before [Seniors Helping Seniors] came in was taking my dog out,” Maddie Munsch said.

Having Tucker and the staff at Seniors Helping Seniors around has been a comfort, she said. They’ve all been remarkable to her.

“They’ve done a fantastic job,” she said. “They’re all angels.”

Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art openings and art events.

DISCO PARTY

When: 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: The Palmetto Club, 1000 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach Details: The Palmetto Club of Daytona Beach is hosting its annual Disco Party and encouraging all to put on their funky threads ad boogie shoes. There will be music, dancing, a cash bar and free parking. A buffet diner will be presented by GEI Catering and Events. A $40 donation per person is requested, which will benefit the Palmetto Club and its local charities. RSVP by Friday, May 24. Call 404-626-66558.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

When: 4-7 p.m.

Where: First Baptist Church, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway Northwest, Palm Coast Details: Join First Baptist Church of Palm Coast as it celebrates the first anniversary of Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered, 12-step recovery program. Enjoy food, fun and fellowship with a cook-out, worship, speakers, bounce houses and more.

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Division Chief David Williams voices the invocation.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly greets deputies. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Vietnam veteran Joe Munsch. Courtesy photo

Local Seniors Helping Seniors owner Mike Walters, with Maddie Munsch and caregiver Scott Tucker. Photo by Sierra Williams

Malia Raymond, graduate of FPC

Photo by Brian McMillan

Alexandra Alvarado Ashlyn Ammirati

Skyler Adams Kyralynn Adcox Cameron Aguiar

Alverdiyev

Raniya Anderson Kylie Anderson Ava Andrews Nico Antonacci Caylie Ardon Ethan Aromanda Daisy ArredondoAlamilla

Aue Austin Aumick Maria Avila Galeb Cristian Badoiu

Alijah Baird Gavin Baird Kyra Baldwin Hannah BangoSanchez Irisbella Banuchi Tabitha Barbier Summer Barnes Mia Barrio Katelyn Baskerville Esperanza Bass Gonzalez Nevaeh Battle

Ethan Baumann Kevin Beatty Alexander Becker Cody Bertola

Emily Bohn

April Bonilla Sarah Boomer Kenny Bosse Isabella Boston Kendall Bovino Lucas Bowers Piper Bowers Stone Brigham Jaylyn Britton Alexis Brokaw Serena Brown

Wyatt Brown Falyn Brown Riley Brown Zariah Brummett Aliya Buckles Chelsea Burr

Calidonio Drin Campbell Dereck Canessa

Jeremiah Cange Jillian Caraway Skylar Carroll Della Carson Christian Casper Schadliegh Castor Maddox Castorino Maurice Cauldwell Caden Cavas Keira Chadwell Grace Chalmers

Jaiden Chavez Gabriel Ciolino George Clark Jameer Clark Kayce Clark Shania Clarke Keira Clegg Cody Clymer Emma Coates Ashlyn Cobb Sara Coello

Raven Coffey Corbin Colby Ke’maria Coley Cheryl Collins Aidan Colon Dax Colvin Shawn Cook Diego Costa Gabriel Costa Aidan Cotton Padrig CowartGoldberg

Jada Cox Sage Cox Tiara Cox Jada Crawford Gavin Crenshaw Ian Crews Dustin Croslin

Cuddon Patrick Cullings Thomonte Curry Sabrina DaSilva Carvalheira

Nathaniel Dauphin

Dave Downs Dylan Duchak Alianna Duffy Brandon Duncan Makaylah

Trenton Ellis Talafia English Kelilah Epstein Houston Estes Jackson Estes

Feagle

Fernandes Barbara Fernandez

Savannah Figgers Jace Frohlich Jacob Fullerton Joshua Furbert Olivia Gaines Jordan Gales Carmen Garces Joaquin Garcia Aaliyah Garofolo Savannah Gates

Juliana Genis

Nasir Germain Katrina Gibson Justin Gilliam Jack Gilvary Frederick Gimbel III

Ciara Glover Frankie Elizabeth Glover Glynnis Gong Annabella Gonzalez Caden Gonzalez Natalia Goodison

Kameran Gordon Xavier Gospodarec Zoey Gotera Richard Gould Justin Goyco

Grimes Alexis Griswold

Griswold Nicholas Groth Simya Guerrero

Gabriella Guilcapi Jaquez Hall Heather Hall Ayleen Handam

Anisa Haney Noreen Haney Ella Hanna Dylan Harmer A’kia Harris Bradan Hart Julian Hastings

Aidan Hastings Samir Hawkins Levi Hayworth Tom Heaney Yazid Hedberg Selena Hernandez Hayden Herndon Renith Hill Kaitlyn Holley Aun’yale Howard Kelton Howard

Mykyta Hramatik Malina Hreib Luke Hunter Justin Hurley Mia Isidore Anjeli Izquierdo Jamara Jackson Jasial Jackson Leila Jackson Xavier Jackson Gracie Jankowski

Jariel Jaya Daniel Jennette Samantha Jennings D’handre Jernigan

Jose Jimenez De Los Santos Ariana Johnson Xiara Johnson Coralee Johnson Jameer Johnson Jaylin Johnson Kyra Johnson

Conner Kendall Silver Kendrick Maddox Kil McKenna Kirshy

penbacher

Kurdziel Evangeline Labadie

Santi Laguardia Anaiya Lalaram Karlee Lamanna Jacob Landry Hunter Lank Fabiola Laplante

Lapointe

Laquitara Ethaniel Laupepa

Laura Maxwell Lee

Matthew Johnson Michael Johnson Tyler Johnson Juliette Jomides Chase Jones Jessica Jones Johnny Jones Nathan Jones Gabrielle Jurado Ellie Kalcounos Damien Kearse Jr

Myles Lee Wesley Libby Mia Lino Alexander Little Lillyan Lockey Ava Lombardo Chloe Long Jasmine LopezCoache Joanel Lorenzo Haley Lucas Eric Lyons

Ashlyn Machiela Kaley Mack Shannelle Madden Chase Magee Kenneth Mahoney Kian Mahoney Amalie Maniscalchi Philip Manisco Arianna Marsh Maximus Marshall Trevion Marshall

Ian Mathews Veronica Matsikh Connor May Kevin Maya Moreira Francis Mazza Rocco Mazzella Nazair McCarthy

Colleen McCaskill

Markylah McKinney Ayden McLaughlin Autumn McLeer

Haley McLeer Luke McWherter Luisana Mendoza Roa Matthew Mercadal Christopher Meus Edwina Mezo Heidi Michaels Skylar Middleton

Bekken Mills

Eliza MirelesOrtiz Madyson Mirza

Corey Mitchell Malachi Mitchell Emma Mitteldorfer Syed Humza Mohammed Kayla Mohrbacher Zander Moisao Justin Molkentin Caleb Monroe Kyra Montell Victor Morales Yarieliz Morales Rios

Angel Moreira Sahara Moreno Jacob Morris Caleb Moy Isaiah Munoz Breona Murdock Heather Muriello Keirra Navas Jamari Nelson Roxy Nengano Kaylee Nevico

Isyss Newsom Cody Newton Daniel Nickonovitz Alena Nieves Mia Nilsen Vanessa Nixon

Njok

Corey Noel Alyn Norman Madison Nousaath Bodhi O’Dell

Cameron O’Fallon Savannah O’Grady Eliot Oliva

Isabella Oliver Matthew Olsen James Opferman Geralis Ortiz Braeden Osborn Ella Oshri Dominic Paciulli Benjamin Papin

Mateo

Greyson Peugh Natalya Pilaski Logan Pinkston Amirah Pinto

Popowich

Prime Arianna Puglisi Lily Puritis

Nathan Quartier

Jaden Quinn Leilani Raby Sarah Rami Ashlee Ramirez Jade Ramirez Kayla Ramirez Brandon Rankin Alyssia Ray Honesty Ray Emma Reiter

Zachary Reiter Tyler Reittinger Sofya Reshetnikov Wyatt Reynolds Rodney Ricks Trista Rife Zada Rios Amber Rivera Richard Rivera Sofiya Rizzo Dalton Roberts

Faith Robinson Khalyel Robinson Gabriel Rodriguez Iris Rodriguez Matthew Rodriguez Acimar Rodriguez Saavedra

Mackinzie Rogan Raheem Rolle Annalise Roman Jose Rosa Intriago

Yasmine Rosales

Rubi Ross Jamie Rupe Mara Rush Gabrielle Russell Dylan Sachinger Summer Saeed Mariana Sanchez Brayden Sanders Jeremiah Sanders Morgan Sanderson Johnathan Santana

Noah Santore Jacob Scherf Mercedez Schofield Jason Schweizer Darieon Scott Marci Seay Payton Short Lexie Shupe Christopher Shutter Jordan Shutter

Anamichelle Silva Burgos

Tamika Similien Davianna Simmons David Simmons Noah Sims Jasmine Sites Benjamin Skinner Holden Slatinsky

Demartez Slaughter Olivia Slaughter Richard Sligh Paul Slydell

Amanda Smith Ethan Smith Julie Solicito Emma Sosa Austin Souder Nicole Soumokil Ariana Sovey Taylor Spann T’niah Spearmon Toryion Stallings Wyatt Stancil

Jada Stanford Angelica Stankiewicz Emily Stankovich Nathan Stein Kaitlyn Steiner Robert Stenson Gabriella Stevens Anthony Steward Eli Stocks Ashton Stogsdill Ella Stombaugh

Conner Stone Hunter Strawser Anna Stroud Samuel Swaggerty

Maria Syrovatkina Haley Tarala Evan Tarpley Abigail Taylor Matthew Taylor Reagan Tennant

Ella Thacker

Dante Barry

Gabriella Abreu Joaquin Adame Ryland Adams Miray Aksezer Alexander Alfonso Yazmine Anaya Benjamin Apfelbach Alex Araujo Peter Austin Michael Babcock Jacquelynn Baldwin

Joshua Ball Luis Barreto

Gabriela Battaglia

Ethan Beck Taylor Bender Haven Benjamin Zachary Bennett Zahrah Beydoun Emma Biedenbach Isaac Blankenship

Sienna Bloom Emily Bly Taylor Boone Nikolas Boucard Brayden Bower Jameson Brown Kyler Brown Jayden Buccini Kelvin Bultron Carl Burger Destini Burgess

Isabella Butler Joslyn Buxman Saionny Cabera Philip Cangialosi

Alexander Carbajal Brandon Cardelli Gabriella Castellanos Felix Castro Haylee Castronovo Annabel Chambers Seth Clark

Emma Thacker Elijah Thero Jake Thomas Kayleb Thompson Faith Tier Hannah Tilton Sydney Tone Hanna Tone Ayden Torres Si’myah Town Ryan Tram

Matthew Trask Lexie Trawick Diego Troncoso Mariella Trotta Raeann Trujillo David Trujillo Dominique Turner Alivia Tuttle Matas Vaitkevicius

Ethan Van Baelen Gwendelyn Vargas

Nicole Vega Kayla Villafane Alyssa Villanueva Sidney Vinnick Esther Vitalien Laron Walker Mareon Walker Savannah Walters Brendan Wang Dylan Warner Jason Warner

Zyler Watson Trinity Wells Joshua West Devyn White Christasia Williams Evan Williams Naomi Williams Brittney Willig Davian Willis Carter Wilson Savannah Wilson

Taurean Wilson Kailey wolpert Olivia Wolpert Ivanna Wong Amberly Wrights Spartak Zatikyan

Joshua Zayas Vianka Zevallos James Ziegler Wade Zimmerle Xavier Zimmerman

Flannery Mary Foulk

Andrea Franks Zachary Furey Anamaria Gagoshidze Sho’marion Gaines Alexander Galbraith

Galt Joel Gargon Nathan Garvin Stanley Gatzek Sophia Georgelas Madison Glisson

Andronik Gohrend

Grady Sarah Graham Xaviar Graham Zachary Graham Kathryn Grantham

Amaya Gross Landon Grover Holyn Hahn Madelynn Hambelton

Maken Harding Michael Haren Ava Harney Emanuela Hartman Cole Hash Emily Haston Mariah Hayes

Jeremy Hendrix Lily Hernaez Brooke Hernandez Alexis Hixon Cayden Hook Brenden HopkinsBrogan Sierra Howard Carly Hyers Caden Iaeger Chloe Irving Keaton Ivory

Karolina Jaronis Nedas Jaronis Bradley Grant Jelkren Romell Johnson Jahnai JohnsonGoodwin Ayden Jones

Karsten Indya Kelly Dennis King Shauna Kirchner Ethan Kirksey

Tatianna Klingner-Garcia Skyler Kolacki Ayden Koppman Jessica Krayter Laila Krebs Olivia Krontz Maya Kulesza Peter LaBarbera

Lauren Lafleur Brayden Landi Douglas Langley

Alana Lapinskas Delaney Larkin Juan Latorre Solano Gabriel Laureano Jackson Legum Elizabeth Leiva Matthew Leonardi

Vicky Liu Bailey Londono Amanda Lopez Maritza Louissaint

Harrison Coker Ja’var Collier Claire Collins Manuel Colmenares Monzon

Joshua Cope Azariyah Copeland

Costa Krisdelyz Cotto Chloe Crews Gabriel Cruz Jordan Curovic

Malik Murray Nevaeh Murray Leo NaterasRogelio Alicia Naticchione

Nemanic

Zachary O’gwynn

Pijay Phim Raphael Pires Connor Plantier

Liliana Pledger Donovan Polo Alana Poole

Jacqueline Prevost Elena Principe Isabella Principe

Antonio Rodriguez Victoria Roller Leanna Roth Sean Rouzier Ashley Ruiz Hillary Ruiz

Gaetano Scarol Briana Schrecengost

Jacob Schultz Ryan Scott Sean Scott Winston Sejda Tariq Shakir John Shanahan Arjay Shaw

Kyra Sproul Sydney Sproul Shanika St. Julien Kristopher Story Lia Tagintsev

Taing Zeyd Tatli Kirra Taylor Jada TaylorBoone Senna Thayer Cynedra Thompson

Kymya Thompson Stephen Torruella Madreeka Toussaint James Triplett

Tucker Mateusz Tulowiecki Londen TurlingtonParker Daniel Tygrest Sara Vannucci Emilie Vedder Hayden Veit

Aviana Velasquez Tomas VelazcoDaza Chelsea Vialva Chance Vickery Aiden VinciBustos

Michael VivasShields Victoria Waide Jett Walden Sarah Wallace Tatiana Watkins Austin Weeks

Trenton Whalen Aiden White Trinitee Whitehead Rilee Whitmore Scott Wiggins Trinitee Williams Dallas Wilson Kenneth Wilson Alexa Wingfield Theron Wise Kaiden Wooters

Ryan Wright Arielle Yantin Matthew Youmans Jordan Youngman Nicholas Znascko

Samuel Hernandez Trevor Banks Zion Garcia Maleah Haas Kelsyn Holland

Carter Roth Christopher Murdock Sage Sackett Mary Joyce Thomas Drew Stade

Paulina Vezikov Ethan Warner

Jones

Muñoz

Sovey

Carly Hyers

Veronica Sikorskiy David Silva Samantha Simon James Sinclair Kiersten Sloan Ryleigh Smith Zoie Soltesz Eliza Somerville Vaughn Soto Leo Spektor Isabella Spinoso

Kelton Howard Hannah Bango-Sanchez Nia Duncan. Photos courtesy of the families

Gabriella Abreu

SPORTS

HOWARD PLACES EIGHTH IN THE 800 AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Matanzas senior Sierra Howard ran a personal record 2:15.71 in the 800 meters at the Class 3A state championship track and field meet on May 17 which put her on the podium in eighth place.

Howard won the District 4-3A meet on April 24 with a 2:22.81 and the Region 1-3A meet on May 8 in 2:18.24.

She broke her personal record at the state meet by 2.53 seconds.

“It feels amazing (to be on the podium for my team),” she said. “These last few years I’ve been coming to states for the 800 and haven’t been able to get on the podium or haven’t really PRd. I’m so happy I was able to PR today and place on the podium. I started counting the girls in front of me — one, two, three… nine. I’m nine. So I was like, I can just pass the girl in front of me — top eight.”

Howard ran the 4x400-meter relay with teammates Jordan Youngman, Gabrielle Duncan and Evanne Miller. They placed first at district and region. and 15th at the state meet with a 4:06.19.

Youngman also finished 10th in the 400 hurdles with a time of 1:05.10 which is just shy of her PR.

Youngman qualified for states following her second place finishes at district and region.

This was Howard’s last meet with the Pirates. She graduated on may 22 and will continue running the 800-meter event and run cross country for the University of West Florida in Pensacola — a member of the NCAA Division II Gulf South Conference.

“I wanted to end on a good note,” she said. “I am going to miss my team. This team has been my family the past three years. It’s bittersweet.”

State champ

Pole vaulters, senior Chase Magee and junior Tanner Cauley-Bennett, finished 12th and 13th, respectively, each at 3.90 meters.

Sophomore Karina Marcelus finished 11th in the triple jump with 11.19 meters (36 feet, 8.5 inches) and senior Olivia Gaines was one inch behind her in 12th.

In her third appearance at the state championships, Maya Tyson finished 14th in both the shot put with a 10.89-meter throw (35 feet, 8.75 inches) and discus with a 33.31 -meter throw (109 feet, 3 inches).

Aun’Yale Howard, Olivia Gaines, Jada Dotson and Summer Barnes finished 14th in the 4x100-meter relay with a time of 48.69 seconds.

11 inches) beating his PR of 50.93 by just shy of six meters. He held the lead until Jason Atwood of Tallahassee Chiles threw 57.36 meters (188 feet, 2 inches) on his third attempt and then sealed his first-place finish with 59.67 meters (195 feet, 9 inches) on his final throw.

“At first I thought, wait, wait a minute, I have a shot here (to win discus),” Cronk said. “I was holding on to the lead for two attempts. I wanted gold (in shot put) and gold (in discus), but I’m happy with gold and silver. It was a pretty big PR.”

Cronk said he has always prioritized shot put because he has been throwing since his freshman year. He admitted he was not that great at discus and got more serious about the event this year. He attributes his success in both events to his throwing coach Paul Spegele, who ran Cronk through situational scenarios prior to the state meet.

“That’s what happened today,” Cronk said. “Somebody threw a 16.6 (in shot put) and I had to go after it. I think it works. My coach made a really big difference. He’s been doing it for a long time and knows what he’s doing. He’s a really good dude too.”

Halliday said in the 20 years he has been with FPC, the team has always had qualifiers participate at the state championships. This year, 10 girls and 10 boys qualified. The boys finished eighth with 21 points accrued during the field events.

Both javelin throwers Elijah Thero and Zeli Hayworth told Halliday they could have done better. Thero finished seventh with a throw of 53.60 meters (175 feet, 10 inches), just ahead of Hayworth who finished eighth with a 53.17 (174 feet, 5 inches). Hayworth was runner-up at the Class 3A State championships for Seabreeze last year with a throw of 55.14 meters (180 feet, 11 inches). He returned to FPC his senior year.

“I needed to have more fun out there because when you take it too seriously, you get tense,” Hayworth said. “You want to be loose. I put the pressure on myself — nobody else did.”

Hayworth received a scholarship to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where he will throw the javelin. He has his pilot’s license and will be enrolled in ERAU’s aviation business program.

“I think we have the best developed team,” he said about FPC. “I’ve gone from 30 in my freshman year to in the 50s. This was definitely the right place to end my (high school) career with FPC, coach Halliday and my teammates. Not where I wanted to place but I have a new beginning coming.”

FPC athletes qualified in seven field events and three track events.

The girls 4x800 relay lineup of Bella Tarsitano, Cassidy De Young, Madison Lagarde and Ari Slaughter ran a 9:49.22 for 17th while the boys 4x800 relay crew of Evan Williams, Ayden Peterson, Tyler Jones-Bock and Kamron Davis placed 12th in 8:09.80.

Halliday said it was one of FPC’s larger groups of boys and girls to qualify for state. Some of his kids were disappointed with their results. Sunday after the meet, he sent an email to the kids and their parents reminding them that they were one of the 16 best athletes in the state in their event. He said he wants them to reflect on how many hundreds or thousands of people they had to beat to get there, no matter where

“I feel like our coaches are really good technically but we really try to pour a lot into our kids to be good people and to truly know that we have their backs...”

DAVID HALLIDAY, FPC head track coach

they placed.

“I feel like our coaches are really good technically but we really try to pour a lot into our kids to be good people and to truly know that we have their backs,” Halliday said. “I think once they know that authenticity piece, it’s just different from most other programs, not just in the area but in the state. I think that’s what makes us different from almost any other team in track and field or any other sport.”

Matanzas senior Sierra Howard

FPC’s Colby Cronk starts his rotational shot .

FPC senior Elijah Thero launches the javelin 53.60 meters for seventh place.

FPC junior Maya Tyson participates throws the discus at the Class 4A state championship track and field meet. Photos by Michele Meyers

FPC thrower Zeli Hayworth watches where his javelin lands. He finished eighth.

FPC’s Tanner Cauley-Bennett successfully clears 3.90 meters in the pole vault.

SIDE LINES

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Seabreeze catcher signs

Seabreeze High School

catcher

Zane Barron will play baseball at Hillsborough Community College next season. Barron signed a letter of intent on May 14 at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex fieldhouse.

“They liked the person and student he is and the consistent baseball player he showed them every time they saw him play,” Seabreeze head baseball coach Jeff Lemon said.

Barron was a three-year starter for the Sandcrabs. He picked up his offense this season, batting a teamleading .358 with 19 runs batted in and 10 extra-base hits. He drew 24 walks and struck out just seven times.

“He was our rock,” Lemon said. “Offensively, he was our most reliable guy. Last year, he was more of a defensive catcher, but in the offseason he worked on making swing changes and he changed his approach.”

Barron is the second consecutive Seabreeze catcher to receive a college scholarship. Canyon Brown, the starting catcher at North Carolina A&T;, was a fourstarter for the Sandcrabs in 2018-21.

Two pickleball teams advance to nationals

When Dave Turco was asked to organize a team pickleball league in Flagler County late last year, he knew there would be interest, but the numbers of players who quickly signed up went far beyond his expectations.

The Florida Pickleball Leagues formed a league in Flagler and a league in Volusia counties this past winter. Thirty teams of 10-12 players in Flagler and 22 teams in Volusia participated in women’s, men’s and mixed doubles on various competitive levels.

In their first year, two Flagler County teams won at states and advanced to nationals.

“We had 286 people (sign up) in Flagler,” Turco said. “We started thinking about it near the end of November. The league officially started at the end of January, so we only had eight weeks to get it together. It really surprised me how many

people came together to play in the league.”

The team of Mala Magic won the 50+ men’s doubles 4.0 level title at the Northeast Florida regional (Flagler and Volusia counties) on April 13 and the state championship on April 28 at Pictona at Holly Hill.

The 11-member team will compete at nationals on Sept. 12-15 at Hilton Head, South Carolina.

The Fit 2 Dink team won the 55+ women’s doubles 3.0 level title at regional and state and will play in the Las Vegas national tournament on Oct. 2-6.

“We’re all excited,” Fit 2 Dink captain Sau Chin said. “We just love having this experience. Only one of our players played in competition before (co-captain Rita Lewis). We’re all improving our skill.”

Both teams play their home matches at the Malacompra courts at Hammock Community Center

Park. The Flagler teams play on all the courts in the county, including, recently, the new Southern Recreation Center courts, Turco said.

Turco’s 55+ mixed doubles 4.0 team, Droppers & Dinkers, also won at state, but the National Team Pickleball League does not have a 55+ age group for 4.0 mixed doubles.

Ken Schwamb, the captain of the Mala Magic, said he didn’t know what pickleball was when he moved to Palm Coast from Kentucky three and a half years ago. Now he has started teaching pickleball at Flagler Technical College.

Turco has been playing pickleball for about four years.

“The sport is just exploding,” he said. “It’s just remarkable to see what’s happening. It’s a great community. Even if you’re a novice, people are always willing to invite you to play.”

Blue and

White

scrimmage

Matanzas didn’t want to play a spring football game on the night after graduation, so it ended its spring practice a week early with the Blue and White intrasquad scrimmage inside the stadium on Saturday, May 17. Now the Pirates may follow that script in the future.

“It was a great crowd. The home stands were pretty much filled up. People stood along the fence line. Faculty and staff had a cookout in the end zone. It was pretty impressive our community came out to support us like that,” coach Matt Forrest said.

“It’s a tradition we can start building on.” Forrest was especially pleased with the product on the field after just three weeks of practice.

“We saw lot of guys make plays. The things we saw in practice transferred to Friday night under the lights,” he said.

Forrest was pleased with the play of quarterbacks Jackson Lundahl and Caden Burchfield.

“Caden Burchfield looked good running and throwing the football,” Forrest said. “That battle will continue through the summer and (preseason) camp. They both commanded the offense really well.”

The Pirates return just five starters — offensive linemen Jaylon Owens and Asim Tariq, defensive linemen Jaxson Saterfield and Jordan Theus-Vale and linebacker Braden Russell. Defensive back Kenneth Robinson, wide receiver Thomas Larywon and receiver/cornerback Ladarian Baker are expected to step into the starting lineup.

Forrest said every player got to play in the scrimmage.

“It was a really, really good night,” Forrest said. “I can see us doing this for years to come.”

DWGCRJVCE EGKZ.” IGKK SGARWE

“SM MTBZN T NOTYM LVG MP WXTG EVOC.” / “TJG OTJ KDP EPZNJ’M XPFZ DSN OTOT UTJ’M CZ JP RYSZJE PR OSJZ.” OY. M

“LEUW XLC WHNSNEMBW BPW NSVLAANJHW, YPMBWFWT TWSMNEA, EL SMBBWT PLY NSVTLJMJHW, SCAB JW BPW BTCBP.” MTBPCT ULEME GLXHW © 2023 NEA, Inc.

RISING THROUGH THE RANKS by Daniel Hrynick, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

Mala Magic won the men’s doubles 50+ 4.0 title at the Florida Pickleball Leagues’ state championships and is headed to nationals. Back row: Tony Scirbona, Dan Delevante, George Carlone, Larry Mackey, Todd Emery and Bobby Cabaniss. Front row: co-captain Steve Jacobovitz, Tommy Boone and captain Ken Schwamb. Not Pictured: Richard Gaskalla and Alan Mandell. Courtesy photo

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER

THIRD INSERTION

NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, 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 16, 2024. Persons Giving Notice: /s/ Pippa Patricia Everly 19406 Vardon Court Houston, Texas 77094 /s/ Taryn Everly Hodella 19406 Vardon Court Houston, Texas 77094 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice /s/ Diane A. Vidal, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1008324 CHIUMENTO LAW 145 City Place, Suite 301 Palm Coast, FL 32164 Telephone: (386) 445-8900 Fax: (386) 445-6702 E-Mail: DVidal@legalteamforlife.com Secondary E-Mail: Proserv@legalteamforlife.com May 16, 23, 2024 24-00117G

SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS

THIRD INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION; CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICEPROPERTY IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2024 CA 000116 PALM COAST LAND OPPORTUNITIES, INC. and; NATIONAL RECREATIONAL PROPERTIES OF PALM COAST INC., Plaintiff, vs. LUIS ECHEVARRIA AND LOUDES PINA Defendants.

TO: LUIS ECHEVARRIA, 7 HADDINGTON PLACE, APT. 1, LYNN, MA 01905

LOUDES PINA, 7 HADDINGTON PLACE, APT. 1, LYNN, MA 01905

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet title to the following properties in Flagler County, Florida: LOT 16, BLOCK 23, SEMINOLE PARK SECTION 60, SEMINOLE WOODS PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 17, AT PAGE 48, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA.

FOURTH INSERTION 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 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 County, Florida: Lot 14, Block 36, Palm Coast, Map of Ulysses Trees, Section 57, according to the map or plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book 17, Page(s) 12 through 28, inclusive, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida., a/k/a

You are hereby ORDERED to appear in this court, at the court address set forth above, on the following date and time 07/25/2024 at 09:00 AM Hearing on Merits (CR/CV)

You may bring an attorney with you. If you have a right to an attorney and if the court determines that you are indigent, the court will appoint an attorney to represent you. If you fail to appear, the court may proceed on that date and any date thereafter to a trial on the merits and adjudication of this matter.

For further information call the Office of the Clerk-Magistrate at 508-676-0090.

WITNESS: Hon. John S. Spinale, Second JUSTICE, DATE ISSUED: 04/22/2024, Roger J. Oliveira, Clerk-Magistrate. May 9, 16, 23, 2024 24-00106G

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION, CARE AND PROTECTION, TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS, DOCKET NUMBER: 23CP0219FV, Trial Court of Massachusetts, Juvenile Court Department, COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, Bristol County Juvenile Court, 289 Rock Street, Fall River, MA 02720. 508-676-0090. TO: Matthew Brien: A petition has been presented to this court by DCF (Fall River), seeking, as to the following child, Matthew R. Brien, Jr., that said child be found in need of care and protection and committed to the Department of Children and Families. The court may dispense the rights of the person(s) named herein to receive notice of or to consent to any legal proceeding affecting the adoption, custody, or guardianship or any other disposition of the child named herein, if it finds that the child is in need of care and protection and that the best interests of the child would be served by said disposition.

sonal 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

Parcel ID: 07-11-31-7060-002300160 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Sokolof Remtulla, PLLC, the plaintiff’s attorney, whose address is 6801 Lake Worth Road, Suite 100E, Greenacres, FL 33467, on or before 30 days after the SECOND publication, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition.

DATED on 4/23/2024.

TOM W. BEXLEY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) By: /s/ Amy Perez DEPUTY CLERK

SOKOLOF REMTULLA, PLLC

6801 Lake Worth Road, Suite 100E

Greenacres, FL 33467

Telephone: 561-507-5252

Facsimile: 561-342-4842

E-mail: pleadings@sokrem.com

Counsel for Plaintiff May 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024 24-00105G

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2023 CA 000567

BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY MORRIS, DECEASED, et al. Defendant(s).

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated January 05, 2024, and entered in 2023 CA 000567 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY MORRIS, DECEASED; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; DAWANA P. BURNS; MICHAEL K. MORRIS; KIM L. GREEN 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 14, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 6, BLOCK 32, OF PALM

COAST, MAP OF PINE GROVE, SECTION 28, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 9, PAGE(S) 51-66, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 60 POINT PLEASANT DRIVE, PALM COAST, FL 32164

Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim in accordance with Florida Statutes, Section 45.031. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES

ACT. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste D-305, Deland, FL 32724, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 13 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 By: \S\Danielle Salem Danielle Salem, Esquire Florida Bar No. 0058248 Communication Email: dsalem@raslg.com 23-109518 - MiM May 16, 23, 2024 24-00116G