Free speech vs. safety at election sites
CITY WATCH
City, Flagler
Schools celebrate collaboration Palm Coast and Flagler Schools held its annual, collaborative Principals Breakfast on July 17 where officials discussed the vision and goals of both organizations. The school principals and Flagler Schools’ leadership team, led by Superintendent LaShakia Moore, met with Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin and Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. The breakfast was meant to foster a “stronger partnership between the city’s leadership and the education community,” according to a press release.
On the city’s part, Johnston emphasized Palm Coast’s dedication to working closely with Flagler Schools to address and manage, through smart-managed growth, how future development impacts the school system.
Johnston also highlighted current and future potential collaborative programs the city hopes to continue in conjunction with Flagler Schools, including the UNF MedNexus Innovation Challenge and the C.H.I.R.P. program for environmental outreach.
Board OKs 750 homes for Sawmill Branch
In the last two months, the Palm Coast Planning Board has approved almost 750 homes for the next two phases and applications for a development within the Palm Coast Park development.
The Palm Coast Park Development of Regional Impact is a massive 4,700-acre, phased development project in the northwest portion of Palm Coast along Highway U.S. 1 that was originally approved in 2004. It is broken down into multiple tracts, with smaller developments within those tracts, and is expected to have over 2,000 homes once it is finished.
At its June 18 and July 17 meetings, the Palm Coast Land Development and Regulation Board reviewed and approved applications for Phases 6 and 4 of the Sawmill Branch development, respectively, according to planning board meeting documents.
Sawmill Branch is within the Palm Coast Park DRI and the Palm Coast Park Master Planned Development, which was approved in 2020.
Sawmill Branch, a residential development, is split into seven
phases. The Phase 4 application sits on 213 acres of land on U.S. 1, just half a mile south of Old Kings Road North.
The application was for a preliminary plat review of the phase’s 425 single family residential lots.
Each home within Phase 4 will have a 4,000-square-foot lot size and can be built up to 35 feet high.
The Phase 6 application was for a residential subdivision master plan. The developer proposes 320 singlefamily townhomes for Phase 6, a 64.5-acre site just under a mile south of Old Kings Road North and on the west side of U.S. 1.
Phase 6 also neighbors a 30-acre site for a school, according to the June 18 meeting documents. The Palm Coast Park DRI is required to donate that land to Flagler Schools for a future school.
The Planning Board unanimously approved both applications, but the approval is contingent on several restrictions.
Primarily, that Sawmill Branch Boulevard, the “spine road” con -
necting the Sawmill Branch development, must be constructed before any certificate of occupancies can be issued for Phases 3-5. In the case of Phase 6, only 50 units can be constructed until another road for Phase 7 is constructed and connected to U.S. 1.
In January, the Palm Coast City Council approved the final plat for Phase 2A and 2B of the Sawmill Branch development. Both phases combined will add 493 homes. The development includes a 9,500-square-foot amenity center is also slated for construction at the development. Infrastructure work on Phases 2A and 2B began in November 2021, according to information from the January council meeting.
At the July 17 meeting, several members of the planning board asked how many homes on the previously approved tracts have been built to date. Adam Austin, who represents the developer, said he believed around 300 homes had been completed.
could add more workers to maintain swales
Palm Coast will likely be getting a new swale maintenance team in the 2025 budget year. The expansion of the swale maintenance team in the proposed budget will be funded by the increase in service rates approved by the Palm Coast City Council in May 2023. At the time, the council approved a phased-in, fiveyear increase to residents’ stormwater fees. On Oct. 1, 2023, the first phase was implemented; the fees increased from $22.27 to $28.34. On Oct. 1, 2024, the rate will increase again to $32.87. By 2027, residents will be paying $39.10 in stormwater fees, followed by a five-year pause on any increases higher than the annual consumer price index. The rate increase was needed, Stormwater Director Carl Cote said last year, because of the increased failure and replacement rate of city pipes and higher cost of maintenance work. The swale maintenance department is requesting eight new personnel — including five cross-trained equipment operators — adding over $1 million to the annual personnel costs to the department. But because of a simultaneous $2 million decrease from interfund transfers, the budget for the swale maintenance team has decreased overall for the 2025 budget by 4.6% over the 2024 budget. Overall, the stormwater maintenance budget for the 2025 fiscal year is increasing by 38%, mainly due to capital projects, Deputy Stormwater Director Lynn Stevens said. The majority of these will be funded by loan proceeds also approved in the 2023 rate study.
Once built out, Sawmill Branch is expected to have over 2,000 homes. Photo courtesy of D.R. Horton North Florida’s Facebook page
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Making plans to celebrate 100 years of Flagler Beach
Chairperson challenges anyone to find ‘a more authentic representation of what a great beach was, and is today.’
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF
WRITER
With less than six months before Flagler Beach’s centennial, the Centennial Celebration Committee is on the move.
Flagler Beach was first recognized as a city in 1925 and will be turning 100 years old in 2025. Originally, the Centennial Celebration Committee was convened under the city of Flagler Beach.
But, committee chairperson Roland Clee said, it quickly became clear that being under the statemandated transparency and Sunshine Laws would slow the process down. Since May 2023, the committee has been looking for a local sponsor.
Flagler Strong approached them in September, Clee said, and now the celebration committee has been brought under the umbrella of Flagler Strong’s Flagler Beach Celebration Committee. That doesn’t mean the committee hasn’t been making any headway in the months between, though. Clee said the committee has three teams who have been working on different parts of the celebration process behind the scenes: an events team responsible for organizing the cen-
tennial events, a fundraising team responsible for organizing the funding and a communications team to help spread the news.
“We really have this thing running where we all feed off the events committee to make our financing and budget goals,” Clee said. “And then our communications team provides support getting the community involved.”
And they really do want the community involved, he said, from volunteers to sponsors for the events.
“We really need more volunteers on all of the teams,” Clee said. “We’ve really got the ideas. Now it’s just a matter of bringing the manpower to see that dream executed.”
Committee vice-chair Mike Akialis, a local loan broker who runs the financing team, said once there is more information on what events will be happening next year, his team will begin bringing proposals to local businesses for sponsorships.
“We expect an incredibly positive response,” he said.
The Celebration Committee will be meeting monthly to review each of the teams’ progress and to finalize details as 2025 approaches. The events team should be rolling out a list of priority events at the celebration committee’s August meeting, Clee said.
The city’s centennial celebrations will be spread out throughout the year, Clee said. A committee press release said the events will range from historical exhibits, parades and festivals, community projects, educational programs and possibly culminating in a final gala event.
Cindey Dalecki — the owner of the marketing company Marketing 2 Go and leads the communication team — said one idea the committee has is to bring back events that have disappeared in the city over the years. That could be events that didn’t return after the COVID-19 pandemic, she said, or even things like the Cabbage Ball, an annual dance held in the county in the early and mid 1900s that later died out.
There’s no shortage of ideas for events, she said.
“We’re really here to put a bullhorn
Q+A KAITI LENHART, FLAGLER SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
on the wonderful things that they’ve got planned over the whole year,” Dalecki said.
Akialis said he thinks a lot of people in Flagler County and Flagler Beach will want to help out — both businesses and individuals.
“I think the whole year is going to be exciting,” Akialis said.
Dalecki said one of her favorite things about Flagler Beach is its small hometown feel. She said she can’t wait to see how the celebration unfolds over the next year.
Clee said one of the things he is
looking forward to see is how the centennial celebrations highlights Flagler Beach’s rich history and heritage. He said he would challenge anyone to find “a more authentic representation of what a great beach was, and is today, up and down the Atlantic coast.”
“It really is a jewel-status that is shared and enjoyed by people in nearby Volusia County, and all in Flagler County and Palm Coast and Bunnell and then even in St. Johns County and Putnam County,” Clee said. “It’s a real destination.”
On voter security, and how to improve on a ‘shameful’ turnout
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
With the Primary Election closing in, Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart sat down with the Observer to talk important issues leading up to the polls opening.
Lenhart discussed topics like the mail-in ballot process, ballot-machine testing and voter turn out in the primary elections. She also gave her opinion on a resolution being considered by the Flagler County Commission that would prohibit tents, chairs and loud speakers on county property all-year round, including during the election season.
Q: What do people need to know about mail-in ballots?
There are three ways to vote in Florida. It’s never been easier to vote in the state of Florida. You can choose to vote by mail, vote early, or vote on Election Day. If you want to vote by mail, our ballots have already been mailed and we’re still getting requests at this time.
In Florida, we’ve been a “no excuse,” absentee state for over 20 years. [That means] you don’t have to have a reason to request a voteby-mail ballot. You don’t have to be out of county, you don’t have to have any kind of medical reason, or any other excuse. It affords a lot of convenience for people who work or who travel, who do have medical conditions or maybe just can’t stand in line, who have transportation issues, all those things. Voting by mail is very convenient. It’s also a very secure process.
Q: How are the mail-in ballots verified?
We verify all the signatures on a vote by mail ballot individually, one by one, each envelope. Our staff does that. We’ve taken signature verification training, all of us here in the office, to identify any fraudulent signatures, any forgery, and just to ensure that the signature on that envelope … matches the voter registration file.
Q: How long does it take you to count all of the mail-in ballots once you start receiving them?
We start early. We just tested our equipment [at a] public meeting. We had an observer here, and, of course, the Canvassing Board does that. After the test is completed, we can start to count the vote by mail ballots. In Florida, we begin as early as possible.
In [the 2020 presidential election] … many states could not begin
NEED TO KNOW
For all information about the county's voting process, visit the Flagler Supervisor of Elections Office's website: www. flaglerelections.gov
AUG. 8
The deadline to request a mailin ballot. Mail-in ballots can be requested online. AUG. 10
Early voting begins. AUG. 20 Primary Election Day.
the vote-by-mail opening and tabulation until after election day and that’s why you saw all the chaos that was 2020. [Flagler County’s] results were available election night.
There are valid results that will be updated after the election because we have provisional ballots, and we have those that come in from overseas. They have an extended deadline of 10 days for our uniformed service members. Also, citizens overseas have an extension and then anyone whose ballot was rejected due to signature, they have an extension to update that signature so that their ballot can be counted. So there are valid actual votes that can be added to the totals after election day.
But those results typically are not enough to change the results unless there was a very close race.
Q: What kind of machines do you use and what does testing that entail?
Our testing begins months before an election. Every single piece of equipment that we use in an election, whether it’s the check-in equipment, the ballot tabulation machines … we test every one of
those, all of our high-speed scanners that we use for vote-by-mail, and the cumulative results tabulations server. That’s not connected to the internet, and it’s totally separate from the rest of our systems in house.
Basically, we have a test set of ballots that are pre-marked, and we know what the results should be because we created the test deck. So that test deck is run on all those different equipment types. And then at the end, we test the upload to make sure that the cumulative results from the server match the individual ballots to make sure that they’re counting properly.
Q: Florida has a state law that prohibits solicitation within 150 feet of a voting precinct. What are the campaigners at precincts allowed to do?
We only have jurisdiction as far as enforcement within that 150-foot, no solicitation area. It’s really a safe zone to provide access to the polling place for the voters. It’s a protected area of no candidates, no campaigning, no flyers, no handouts. Not even a campaign sign can be in that area.
Outside of the 150 feet, I do not have jurisdiction or authority to enforce any type of policy. And, in fact, that’s explicit in the election law. Outside of the 150 feet, that is up to the county to make policies, the cities to make policy, and then on private property campaigning has to be allowed within what’s in the area, because that’s also a protected right under the First Amendment.
Q: The Flagler County Commission is considering a resolution that could prohibit the placement of features like tables, tents and the use of loudspeakers on county property, even during election season. What are your thoughts on that resolution?
I do know that changes this close to an early voting cycle will be perceived by candidates and their supporters as suspect. Because if this was an issue in 2022, this resolution should have been proposed in 2023 and not so close to early voting. Also, my concern is that shade canopies are really necessary: It’s August, in Florida. It’s hot. And no chairs. So we’re now we have campaign activities and those supporters standing in the sun, direct sun, for eight hours during early voting, and I don’t think that’s safe. My position is just to have it fully
vetted in reference to election law, whether or not those restrictions can be placed upon a polling site; I provided those references to the commissioners after I learned about the resolution, after the meeting. Just consider the safety issue — that’s my concern.
Q: Are there a lot of complaints from voters about this?
The main complaint the voters have is that the sidewalk runs adjacent to those tents. And I mean, the supporters and the people campaigning are within arm’s reach of people who are waiting in line. That’s been the complaint. So … in 2018 [for the library on Palm Coast Parkway], I suggested the use of a temporary barrier, or even a more permanent one like landscaping, to create a more natural barrier between where people can set up camp basically, or set up their campaign site, and then create that natural space between the sidewalk and those folks so that they everybody can have space.
Q: The proposed resolution has to balance voter intimidation versus Freedom of Speech. How tight is that balance that you think the commissioners have to walk when they’re going to be reviewing this?
Does a policy change behavior?
That’s the question. It’s a very important question that our commissioners, I’m sure, are really struggling with.
I don’t really have an answer. It is really tough.
Q: Primary elections statistically have lower turnouts than the general election in November. How do Florida voter turnout rates compare? What is Flagler’s voter turnout rate?
Other counties do have a higher primary turnout, like Collier County blows it out of the park; they
usually have 45%-50% turnout.
Raising that awareness is something I’ve really focused on over the past several years. Our primary election turnout has increased, but it’s not at the level that it needs to be: 30% is shameful. We broke 31% in the last primary, and I was so excited. But really, it’s still shameful.
I think 50% would be a goal. A higher turnout even more than that would be better, of course, because we’re talking about the representation of our county, and people should be more engaged to select those representatives.
Q: How do we increase local turnout?
A lot of that is just making sure people are aware that these races are decided [in the primary]. If your candidate doesn’t make it through the primary, they won’t be on the general election ballot. For the races that are decided in the primary, of course, if you don’t vote in the primary, you don’t have a say.
Q: What would you say to encourage Flagler County voters to turn out for the primary election in August?
This election is historic. This primary will change our local government, ground up. The city of Palm Coast, our School Board, our County Commission — the majority of these races will be decided in the primary. That’s why this is so important. ...
For those who aren’t as engaged, I tell people to look at the Elections Office website and you can go to the candidates section, which is highlighted in our homepage, and go through each single name and try to learn about them. Also, another resource that’s probably pretty obvious for a lot of people is just to Google or do a web search for the candidate’s name. The issue is that it takes work on the part of the voter; you have to do your research. You have to educate yourself. That takes time. A lot of folks don’t have a lot of time … I think that’s why probably we don’t have such a great turnout, is because finding out about these candidates takes a lot of work. How do you encourage people to do that? By telling them, “This is it. The primary election is it for a lot of our races on the ballot. So become engaged, figure it out, find your candidates, research them, and please vote.”
Flagler County’s Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart. Photo by Sierra Williams
A photo from the early 1920s of the intersection of Moody Boulevard and the future site of State Road A1A, facing the ocean.
Introducing the Palm Coast Concert Series starting July 25 from 6-8pm at The Stage located at Town Center! This free event is for all ages and our band for the month of July is the local favorite: Southern Chaos.
Teacher shortage, but district
Flagler Schools is advertising 11 teacher positions.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
With the school year to begin in less than three weeks, Flagler Schools has 11 open teacher positions. It’s a shortage, but not a severe shortage, Superintendent LaShakia Moore said.
At the July 23 School Board workshop, district Human Resource officials presented the board with various analytical data involving Flagler Schools’ workforce.
In addition to 11 instructional vacancies that the district is advertising, Flagler Schools also has 21 non-instructional job openings and three professional/ administrative vacancies.
YOUR TOWN
African American Cultural Society awards $10,000 in scholarships
The African American Cultural Society’s Youth Black His-
Three years ago, the district had 4% of its instructional positions unfilled and 11% of its non-instructional positions unfilled. Now the percentages are 1.3% and 2.2%, respectively, Chief Human Resources Officer Robert Ouellette reported.
“The worst issues with our hiring are behind us,” Ouellette said.
Ouellette said larger districts have more pronounced labor shortages. Flagler County also has a geographic advantage, he said, being situated between two larger counties with employees able to live in different areas.
Thirty-five district employees, including 23 with professional certifications and 11 with temporary certifications, were not reappointed for the upcoming school year. Board member Colleen Conklin asked how many of
tory Committee presented $10,000 in scholarships on June 22 to four Flagler Palm Coast High School graduates who have participated in the AACS youth black history activities and met scholarship criteria. The four graduates were: Edwina Mezo Brown, who will attend Clark-Atlanta Univer-
the teachers who were not reappointed were rated highly effective. Ouellette said a large number received that rating because less than 10% of teachers statewide are rated effective or below.
Conklin said if the nonreappointments are highly effective there needs to be an explanation as to why they are not being renewed.
“As we look at a shortage, a teacher crisis … we should not be in the position where we’re not renewing folks who have received a highly effective (rating) where students are receiving assessments that are high achieving,” Conklin said. “And you’re tarnishing someone’s reputation who was highly effective in the classroom. It says to me it’s personality driven.”
“I would definitely say it’s not personality driven,” Moore said. “Especially right
sity majoring in biology; Maxwell Lee and Myles Lee, who will attend Daytona State College; and Jill Prime, who will attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, majoring in aeronautical engineering. Mezo Brown also received the Dr. Madalin Price award and an additional scholarship.
now as we are looking at making adjustments to our teacher evaluation, and we’re making adjustments to our administrative and professional evaluation, when you think about work ethic, the way I interact with others within the organization, my professionalism, I could get zeros across that whole section and be highly effective, but does that person represent the mission, vision, and guiding principles of the organization? And so when I look at it, it’s just not about, are the students performing?”
Of the employees who were not renewed, “a percentage” had a misconduct investigation, Ouellette said. Conklin said it would be interesting to see how many of the non-reappointments were highly effective, especially during a teacher shortage.
“We do have a need for educators across the state,” Moore said. “But we are in no means in a place of desperation. We are still in a place to be extremely competitive and identify individuals who represent the mission, vision and core values of this organization.”
“I wouldn’t have an issue with that,” Conklin said. “But it sounds like we have an issue with the evaluation tool.”
OLDER TEACHERS WHO ARE NEW HERE
The HR team also broke down the ages and longevity of the district’s employees. In all three staffing groups (instructional, non-instructional and administrative/professional), the largest percentage of employees fall in the 46-55 age group with 33.2% of teachers (294 of the district’s 885 instructors) landing in that age group.
Yet, 401 teachers — 45% — have been employed by Flagler Schools for just three years or less, and 426 of the district’s 769 non-instructional employees — 55% — also have been employed here for three years or less.
With 60% of the instructional staff between ages 36 and 55, the district seems to have an experienced teaching staff, said Toussiant Roberson, the district’s administrator on assignment for organizational talent. But a large number of the staff gained most of its experience elsewhere.
“That zero to three (years) is representing the fact that we are pulling from other districts, and so some of their more experienced personnel are coming to Flagler County,” Roberson said.
Moore suggested some others may have switched careers.
“Not that we made this connection,” Moore said, “but I think it also speaks to some of the work being done in the state to attract individuals coming from alternate certifications.”
Only 31 teachers in the district are 25 or younger.
“When I see this, it goes back to why it is so important to focus on standard operating procedures,” Moore said. “Making sure all these individuals coming into this workforce are being properly onboarded and knowing what’s expected of them.”
More district employees retired at the end of the 202324 school year than had retired in the two previous years. Fifty-one employees — including 25 teachers — retired. A total of 42 employees retired the previous year, and 38 retired in 2022. Seventytwo employees, including 48 teachers, are currently in the Deferred Retirement Option Program.
Finally, the HR team presented exit survey data for employees who resigned from April 2023 to July 2024. Of the 286 surveys that were sent out, 106 responded. Of those, the most cited reason for leaving the district (38 of the respondents) was personal. Twenty-three cited relocation, 14 cited inadequate salary, and 11 were retiring.
African American Cultural Society scholarship recipients Maxwell Lee, Myles Lee, Edwina Mezo Brown and Jill Prime
YouTuber buys 5 Bunnell police cars for racetrack
The cruisers were purchased with city decals, sirens, PA systems and even a police radio still attached after the city traded them in last October.
SIERRA WILLIAMS
STAFF WRITER
“I got the deal of the century,” said Cleetus McFarland in his YouTube video.
That deal was the purchase of 10 used police cars, sold in bulk from the Bartow Ford Dealership in Bartow, Florida, for $13,500. Five of those cars are former Bunnell Police Department cruisers.
McFarland is a Florida YouTube influencer with 3.76 million followers who purchases old emergency response vehicles to either fix and sell or turn into race cars to use at his racetrack, the “Freedom Factory USA,” in Bradenton, Florida. McFarland purchased the formerly abandoned track for his own use back in 2020, according to his YouTube channel.
In his June 24 video — titled, “I Bought 10 Cars For the Price of One” — McFarland tests out the 10 cars. But most of the cars — from the BPD and the Edgewater Police Department — still had official city decals on them, as well as police lights and sirens, and several still had internal attachments: PA systems, a police radio system, laptop holders and ticket printers.
Most of the attachments, according to what McFarland showcased in the video, were still in working order.
BPD Lt. Shane Groth said it isn’t illegal to own a former cop cruiser, nor the attachments. The only legal issue stems from people using those items to impersonate being a law enforcement officer.
“There are people out there that collect old police cars,” he said. “If they’re out there … just impersonating themselves as a police officer, that’s where crime would come into place.”
But how did McFarland come to own five BPD cars, still decorated with official decals? Groth and city officials said those decals were supposed to be removed before being sold.
Bunnell City Manager Alvin Jackson said when he first came to Bunnell in 2018, one of his priorities was to expand and update the city’s police department. That included upgrading the BPD’s fleet, where many of the vehicles were close to 20 years old, Jackson said.
The city has slowly traded in the older cars for newer vehicles over the years through Enterprise RentA-Car, Financial Services Director Kristy Moss said. These five BPD cars were the last ones that needed to be traded in, she said. They had a combined trade in value of $6,500, according to city financial records.
In October 2023, Bunnell swapped them for a new vehicle for BPD Chief David Brannon. Because Enterprise did not have car it needed in its inventory, it purchased it from the Bartow dealership in exchange for the five old cruisers, Moss said. The vehicle was then leased to Bunnell through Enterprise.
Bartow dropped off the new vehicle and picked up the five old ones, but Groth said the dealership gave them next to no notice before arriving to pick up the five old cruisers.
As far as the internal mounts and the overhead lights go, Jackson said,
• I am Ray Stevens candidate for Palm Coast City Council District Three. I have been a Palm Coast resident for twenty years, I am married, my wife is a nurse employed by Advent Health. We have a daughter who is presently a student at the University of Florida.
• I am a retired Police Lieutenant from New York and a former Pinellas County Deputy Sheriff. As Administrative Lieutenant my duties and responsibilities included, Personnel Management, Public Information, IT Service Management, Special Events Planning, Development and Implementation of Traffic Facilitation plans and Problem Intersection Assessment.
• I am a graduate of Pace University NY.
• I was an adjunct Professor at Keiser College, Daytona Beach.
• I am seeking the office of City Council because I have certain core beliefs. I am committed to the notion that raising taxes
the city previously removed those to reuse on other vehicles. But now, the newer vehicles require different parts to fit the mounts correctly, he said.
But the decals, as far as the city was concerned, were supposed to be removed before the vehicles were sold. Groth said when the BPD spoke to a representative from Bartow Ford, they received “verbal assurances” all the decals would be removed before they were sold.
This issue becomes whose responsibility was it to ensure the decals were removed. Florida State Statute 319.14, subsection 5, requires the decals be removed before being sold or traded to an individual, but it doesn’t make that clear if the responsibility is on the city or dealership to do so.
Prior to this purchase, Moss said the city had always ensured the decals and any reusable parts were removed from all city vehicles before Enterprise picked up the cars. Going forward, she said, the city will ensure that happens, regardless of the circumstances.
Certainly, no one at the city is happy to see its former cars, she said, with the city logo still attached, being used by someone not affiliated with Bunnell.
“From now on, nothing’s going to leave here with any mark, period, even if even if we have it in writing from a dealership,” Moss said.
School Board approves millage, budget advertising
The state decreased the school district’s millage rate to 3.117; the budget is just under $3.24 million.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Flagler County School Board approved advertising for the tentative 2024-25 millage rate and budget at a special board meeting on Tuesday afternoon, July 23.
A state imposed property tax millage rate of 3.117 is the school district’s lowest millage in over 20 years, Chief Financial Officer Patty Wormeck told the board. Last year’s rate was 3.155. The budget is also lower than last year’s at under $3.24 million. Last year’s budget was advertised at just under $3.25 million.
The district heads into the fiscal year with a higher fgeneral und balance than last year. The fund balance of $9.7 million as of July 1 is about $2.3 million more than last year’s closing balance.
A projected fund balance for the close of the 2024-25 fiscal year is about $9.5 million.
“We had to used about $200,000 in balancing the budget, which is the best results we’ve had in a long time,” Wormeck said.
The higher fund balance than last year was due to utilizing Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds creatively by backfilling different positions required post-pandemic, Wormeck said.
ESSER grant funds will end in September, so the district will not be able to use them next year. The district will also impose a 1.5 millage rate tax for capital outlay projects which will generate about $26.7 million.
The district is scheduled to advertise the tentative millage and budget on July 26 and hold a first public hearing on July 30 with a final public hearing on Sept. 3.
MOORE RECEIVES CHAMBER’S AWARD
Palm Coast-Flagler
Regional Chamber of Commerce
President and CEO Greg Blose presented Flagler Schools
Superintendent LaShakia Moore with the Chamber’s first ever Excellence in Action Award at the School Board’s July 23 business meeting.
Blose said that Moore and her staff, in partnership with the Flagler County Education Foundation, have improved relationships with the business community.
He cited a gathering of 25 business leaders who toured three district schools with the superintendent and the Chamber and Junior Chamber partnering in several programs with the district.
“We’re really excited about the superintendent’s diplomaplus vision,” Blose said. “We really appreciate your support and effort on behalf of the students and families here in Flagler County Schools.”
In another spotlight at the board meeting, County Commission Chair Andy Dance read a proclamation recognizing Aug. 12-16 — the first week of school — as Pedestrian and Cycling Safety Week in Flagler County. Dance is also the Community Traffic Safety Team chairman.
to meet expenditures should be the last resort and not the first option. I believe we should put the brakes on the uncontrolled and or poorly planned development taking place across Palm Coast. Such development is placing an additional burden on our infrastructure. Specifically, roads, highways, water systems and sewerage. I think any future development should be in accordance with what our school system and overall infrastructure can sustain.
• I am also a strong proponent of increasing citizen participation in influencing the city government's direction. Limiting one's presentation at a city council meeting to three minutes is simply an inadequate means of allowing public expression. I think that town hall meetings, held from time to time, would provide a better conduit for public input and discussion.
YouTuber Cleetus McFarland in a BPD police cruiser he purchased. Image screenshot from McFarland’s YouTube video
COPS CORNER
JULY 9
BASHED WITH A BACKPACK
10:25 a.m. — 100 block of Division Avenue, Ormond Beach Burglary with assault or battery. Police arrested a 26-year-old Holly Hill woman after she threw a backpack and a single piece of paper at a driver in a local community center parking lot.
The victim reported to police that she was backing out of a parking spot after dropping her child off at the community center when the woman drove up behind her in her own vehicle. To avoid her, the victim said she drove back into the the spot.
The woman, the victim reported in the police report, then followed her, yelling through her rolled-down window. She then got out and opened the passenger door of the victim’s vehicle and picked up an empty backpack and single sheet of paper, which she threw at the victim, striking her.
The woman told police that the victim had blocked her in the parking lot, causing her to drive on the curb to get around her, and that the victim left the parking lot and circled back in front of her at a stop sign inside the same lot. The woman believed the victim was intentionally blocking her in, the report states. She told police that’s when she threw the backpack and paper at the victim.
The woman was taken to jail.
JULY 13
ACIDIC TOMATOES
10:39 a.m. — Ormond Beach
Burglary. A 24-year-old Ormond Beach man was arrested after he broke into a car, poured tomato sauce all over himself and entered a resident’s backyard.
According to the man’s arrest report, the resident heard the man trying to enter through his back door. The resident, with a gun in his hand, exited through a different door to reach his backyard, where he questioned the man why he was in his backyard. The man asked him not to shoot and said “he had acid in his eyes” before running off.
The resident then went to his car, which was parked in his driveway, and discovered the man had taken tomato juice and laundry detergent out of the back of the car and poured it all over himself. The man had left the empty tomato juice bottles in the driveway, and a nearly empty detergent bottle in his backyard, according to the police report.
The man’s shirt was recovered with one of the bottles of tomato juice; his sandals were in the resident’s garage. The car also had tomato juice on the driver’s side and “there was a thick trail of detergent in the backyard leading into the garage,” the report states.
The man also tried to take the resident’s broken canoe into the channel connected to the home. Police found him soaked in water and covered in tomato juice and detergent. He was taken to jail.
JULY 18
GASSED UP
3:03 p.m. — Boulder Rock Drive, Flagler County Petit theft, drug possession.
A South Carolina man with a history of theft charges was arrested after he told a Sheriff’s Office deputy to
search his pickup truck while the suspect continued to pump gas.
The deputy had pulled into a gas station behind the suspect after a run of the truck’s plates came up as stolen, according to an arrest report. The suspect told the deputy he could find the registration and title to the car in the glove compartment and gave the deputy permission to search while the suspect pumped gas.
The deputy found no paperwork in the glove compartment and the suspect did not have a license on him, just a Georgia state ID.
As the suspect was placed under arrest, he told the deputy he had two glass pipes in his pocket, each with burn residue from CBD, the report said.
JULY 21
A FRIEND IN NEED
9:28 a.m. — South State Street and Highway U.S. 1, Bunnell Marijuana possession. A man pulled over for the tint of his car’s windows was arrested on marijuana possession charges after trying to hide two bags of marijuana in his pants.
The marijuana actually belonged to the man’s friend, who was in the car’s passenger seat. When a Sheriff’s Office deputy signaled for the driver to pull over, the passenger “panicked” and tossed the driver two 5-7-gram bags of marijuana to hold, according to an arrest report.
The driver immediately stuffed the bags down his pants, the report said. When the deputy pulled both me out of the car because he smelled marijuana from a visible, burning blunt, the passenger told the deputy about the two bags his friend was holding for him.
He tried to claim all the marijuana, the report said, but both men were still charged with possession.
BRIEFS
Utility trailer catches fire in Bunnell, residents report large ‘explosion’
A utility trailer seemingly exploded and caught fire in Bunnell, according to dispatch notes from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
Several people called 911 just before 8 a.m. on July 18 about a loud explosion at 2546 County Road 305, near Clove Avenue, followed by a large plume of smoke, according to the dispatch notes. When FCSO deputies and Flagler County Fire rescue responded to the scene, they found a utility trailer fully engulfed in flames.
All the employees from the area were evacuated, the notes said, and Flagler County Communications Coordinator Julie Murphy confirmed that no one was injured. It is unclear what the source of the explosion was.
The fire was contained in under 10 minutes by Flagler County Fire Rescue personnel, and it is now under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
CR 305 closed as emergency services work to clear rolled-over logging truck
County Road 305 was shut down for several hours as Flagler County’s emergency services worked to clear a logging truck that had rolled over, blocking the roadway.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office posted on its Facebook account that the truck rollover occurred early in the morning on July 18 at C.R. 305 and County Road 2006 in Bunnell. The driver only sustained minor injuries.
A logging truck trolled over on County Road 305. Photo courtesy of the FCSO
Two suspects arrested for stealing over $850 in goods
On July 18, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit teamed up with the Bunnell Police Department to arrest two suspects – already on felony probation – that had stolen over $850 worth of goods from a Palm Coast grocery store.
The shoplifting incident took place the day before at the Winn Dixie located at 111 Flagler Plaza Drive.
FCSO’s Real Time Crime Center issued an attempt to identify individuals using photos from the store surveillance system to Northeast Florida law enforcement agencies. Sergeant Weaver of the FCSO and Lieutenant Groth of the BPD identified both suspects and located Willie Lee London, Jr. and Michele Ann Sofia in a tent behind a residence on South Church Street in Bunnell. Lieutenant Groth had received information that London was a fugitive living at this location.
London, 41, of Bunnell resisted officers while he was being taken into custody and was also already on probation. He was arrested for Violation of Probation –On Site Felony (2 counts), Obstruction without Violence, and Retail Theft – Over $750.
He is being held on a $3,500 bond. Sofia, 38, of Bunnell was arrested for Grand Theft $750-$5,000 and VOP Misdemeanor. She is being held on $2,500 bond. Both were taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility.
“I guess these thieves thought they were in another state or city, where you can just go in a store and steal what you want. We don’t allow that in Flagler County,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.
Palm Coast man charged with trafficking, having sex with minors, Sheriff says After over a month of investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, David William Chenowith, 32, has been charged with human trafficking, lewd and lascivious battery on a minor aged 12-16, unlawful sexual activity with a minor and several drug possession and trafficking charges, according to a FCSO press release. A concerned citizen first reached out to the FCSO in June after receiving concerning messages from an underaged victim.
The FCSO determined Chenowith was having sex with several minors, ranging in age from 14 to 16, in exchange for drugs, money, clothes and food, the press release said. Chenowith was arrested during a traffic stop and, while searching his car, FCSO deputies found four clear baggies containing marijuana, six small baggies of a white powder/rocklike substance that tested positive for fentanyl and cocaine, four multi-color baggies containing THC gummies and four THC cartridges. Chenowith was taken to the county jail and is being held on $102,500 bond.
“Thanks to the tip from the citizen, we were able to catch this pervert,” Sheriff Rick Staly said.
Flagler Playhouse demolished, president ‘excited for new beginnings’
Demolition began on July 16. Unfortunately, Flagler Playhouse
President Jerri Berry said, the iconic steeple was structurally unstable and had to be torn down as well.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Almost a year after a fire tore through the Flagler Playhouse’s main building, destroying the theater, the burned remains of the historic church building have been torn down.
“I’m kind of I’m excited. It’s not sad anymore,” Flagler Playhouse President Jerri Berry said. “It’s like, excited for new beginnings.”
It took longer than they had anticipated to get to this point, Berry said. On July 15, the Playhouse received the permits to begin demolition on the main building and the demolition team was on the site the next day. By July 23, the main building was gone, including the steeple.
“We knew they weren’t going to be able to [save it] though,” she said. “It was structurally not sound.”
The concrete slab on the lot will be dug up and seeded over until the Playhouse is ready to rebuild, she said. The
Ocean Hammock home sells for $2.8 million
An oceanfront home at 516 Cinnamon Beach Lane was the top real estate transaction in Palm Coast for July 11-17 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The home in Ocean Hammock sold on July 16 for $2,800,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 6/6 and has a pool, two heated spas, a beach walkover and 4,955 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $1,875,000.
Condos The
De La Mer, Unit 906, sold on July 17 for $1,940,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 4/3.5 and has 3,070 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $950,000.
doorways in the remaining buildings that attached to the main building will need to be boarded up, but, Berry said, the Playhouse team is ready to move forward, engage an architect and begin designing the new building.
Berry said they have purposely not rushed into the design phase. They want to take their time and plan, she said.
“We’ll be able to design what will be a very, I think, exciting new venue,” she said. “So I’m really, really looking forward to that.”
Berry said she hopes the theater will be completely rebuilt over the course of the next year or two. They hope to incorporate the image of the iconic steeple in some way,
though Berry said she’s not sure yet what the best way to do so will be.
“Who knows what that looks like,” she said.
In the mean time, she said, Flagler Playhouse is working to turn the annex building into a 50-seat black box theater that will serve as a new home theater for its performances during the rebuilding. Neighboring community playhouses have even donated or offered old theater seats to fill the space once the stage interior is renovated, Berry said.
The small venue will be reminiscent to how the Playhouse originally got its start, she said.
“It kind of takes us back to the roots, too,” Berry said.
And likely the 50-seat theater will remain even after the new theater is built. Berry said she can see the annex building become a revenue source afterward, renting out for comedy nights or other local events, while also having the larger theater for performances.
“I think in the long run, that’s going to be very valuable to the community, because we’ll have more space that we can do more things with the community, other than just our productions,” she said.
The condo at 66 Rivers Edge Lane, Unit 66, sold on July 15 for $300,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and 1,020 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $290,000.
The condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 135, sold on July 17 for $300,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $218,500.
The condo at 9 Fairways Circle, Unit 9, sold on July 16 for $242,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,163 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $55,000.
PALM COAST
Armand Beach Estates
The home at 11 Ocean Dune Circle sold on July 12 for $2,475,000. Built in 2007, the home is a 4/4.5 and has one
fireplace, a beach walkover, pool, heated spa and 4,566 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $2,150,000.
Belle Terre
The home at 131 Brownstone Lane sold on July 16 for $540,000. Built in 2005, the home is a 4/3.5 and has one fireplace, pool, heated spa and 2,410 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $420,000.
Reverie
The home at 48 Reverie Drive sold on July 11 for $650,000. Built in 2024, the home is a 4/3.5 and is 3,070 square feet.
Toscana
The home at 15 New Leatherwood Drive sold on July 17 for $869,000. Built in 2019, the home is a 4/3 and has a heated spa, pool and 2,632
square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $440,000.
Palm Harbor
The home at 14 S. Cloverdale Court sold on July 17 for $692,500. Built in 1981, the home is a 3/3 and has a pool and 3,250 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $365,700.
The home at 3 Fairchild Lane sold on July 17 for $523,000. Built in 2011, the home is a 3/2.5 and has a pool and 2,240 square feet.
The home at 13 Cedarwood Court sold on July 12 for $590,000. Built in 1986, the home is a 3/2 and has a dock and 1,881 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $260,000.
FLAGLER BEACH
Hillcrest
The home at 308 Bryan St.
sold on July 11 for $600,000. Built in 2006, the home is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,328 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $230,000.
Silver Lake The home at 2010 N. Daytona Ave. sold on July 12 for $575,000. Built in 1981, the home is a 4/3 and has a fireplace and 2,248 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $435,000.
Fuquay The home at 2120 S. Central Ave. sold on July 17 for $655,000. Built in 1990, the home is 3/2.5 and has 2,150 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $486,900.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
God. He died to pay for the sins of the world. He was resurrected to give us the free gift of eternal life. There is no deed you can do to earn it. Salvation is through faith in Jesus alone.
Kyle Holmgren, Campus Pastor
The demolition of the Flagler Playhouse's stage. Photo courtesy of the Flagler Playhouse
Make yourself at home
Welcome, distractions: family game night
Reveling in the moment
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
It was family game night recently, and we went back to an easy favorite: Phase 10.
At least, it’s easy for me.
“How do you keep winning in a game of chance?” my wife, Hailey,
asked, as I put my cards down first yet again, winning the round.
Of course, her question was a thinly veiled accusation of cheating. Rather than get indignant, I decided to gloat.
“It’s only called ‘a game of chance’ if you’re losing,” I said. “I consider it a game of skill.”
I was conveniently ignored.
In a game with four children around the ottoman, distractions were plentiful. When it wasn’t his turn, for example, 6-year-old Luke was showing off his loose tooth. It was so loose that it quivered when he inhaled. It was so loose that he would twirl it ostentatiously, in an attempt to gross us out.
“Yeah,” said his 9-year-old sister, Kennedy, “you need to pull that.” She looked away, apparently to avoid getting sick.
Luke grinned. It’s always difficult to strike a balance between enjoying the family moments and trying to keep everyone on task so that the game will actually end and we can all go to bed.
The biggest culprit was 15-yearold Ellie, who was often in no hurry to play her cards.
“It’s your turn, Ellie,” was a common refrain. But with that smile on her face, it was hard to find any fault. She was reveling in the moment, eating some ice cream,
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
enjoying some family togetherness.
“You’re not supposed to put one set down,” Hailey told Grant, who recently turned 18 and is often unavailable to play games like this. He didn’t know the rules of Phase 10, so Hailey had to correct him.
“You’re supposed to wait until you have two sets before you put them down,” Hailey continued. I smiled. Couldn’t help it, for some reason. I was beaming.
“What?” Hailey asked, assuming that my smile indicated I was mocking her for being a stickler on the rules. But I wasn’t mocking.
“I’m just enjoying sitting next to you,” I said. I promise.
Praise for Election Guide The cure: Vote for change
Dear Editor: Your Election Guide is fantastic. Thank you for comprehensive information on the candidates’ positions on various issues important to all voters.
My wife, Emma, and I moved here from Snohomish County, Washington, on April 27 of this year where our local papers gave us fairly anemic insight on local candidates. Your format is well thought out and works well. Thankfully, we learned a lot. And
as new residents, this article was extremely valuable.
We are glad you don’t endorse candidates and instead choose to inform the voters because your vote is yours alone as is mine. Bravo to the Observer. Flagler County is fortunate to have you.
If you keep this quality journalism coming you will have us as subscribers very soon.
GLENN STEINBERG Palm Coast
FIND THE ELECTION GUIDE ONLINE
Did you miss the July 18 print edition, which included the Election Guide? You can find a PDF version at https://shorturl.at/EVuet. Stop by the Observer office for a printed copy, at 50 Leanni Way, Unit C3.
Dear Editor:
It’s no front-page news that development and population growth are big issues, and I’ve been thinking about two recent Observer opinion pieces addressing them.
Palm Coast mayoral candidate Mike Norris commented that the state Legislature gushes funds to facilitate new construction and development but funds for the benefit of the current residents come at a trickle.
Councilwoman Theresa Carli Pontieri wrote of the difference between a politician and statesman and how she has concluded that cutting tax rates at this time may not be desirable given current infrastructure needs and the responsibility to make hard decisions without punting the costs to
the next generation. Both takes resonate with the word on the street. Growth is being crammed down the existing residents’ throats, and many of us feel as if we get the bill and a small group of people get the profits. This disparity is leading to a sense of illegitimacy of our governing institutions. But, we can change course in the forthcoming primary elections. We can decide that where we live is for us and governed by us, or we can continue with an era of the real estate agents, by the real estate lawyers and for the real estate developers.
MATT NELLANS Ormond Beach (Flagler County)
Opposing views of Community Cats and its mission
Community Cats is a vital organization
Dear Editor: Please save Community Cats of Palm Coast.
We have a stray cat problem here. We also have a wonderful organization that is operating on a shoestring and may have to close.
Hopefully you have read the Observer’s July 11 article asking for support. If not, please take a look at their website, www.communitycatspc.org.
This organization is vital to our community. Please support them. Palm Coast, please do not let Com-
munity Cats of Palm Coast have to close its doors. Whether you are a resident of Palm Coast or a business owner here, your support is critical.
SHARON NEILAN Palm Coast
Releasing feral cats is problematic
Dear Editor
In the July 11 issue of the Observer, you published an article about the Community Cats nonprofit organization. This is an organization that purports to support the
rescue of feral cats. While no one should wish a hardship or injury on an innocent or any animal for that matter, there should be some consideration given to the mission of Community Cats.
The Community Cats organization supports the capture and neutering of feral cats and their return to their capture location. All too often, this location is near some person’s residence where the cats defecate in the lawn or planting areas. All too often, well-meaning people feed the cats, which attracts other animals, including vultures.
The well meaning cat feeders should recognize that cats kill
between 1.4 and 4 billion birds of natural species each year, and an estimated 66% of the cats killing these birds are feral cats. The article also mentions a fund raising event by Tortugas Kitchen and Bar that raised $5,000. While this may seem like a great charity event, the article states the $5,000 was used for the (medical) care of two rescue cats. Seems to this reader that there are surely veterans or homeless in our town that could use $5,000 worth of medical care more than cats.
WILLIAM BRATTAIN Palm Coast
More tennis courts won’t benefit majority of residents
Dear Editor:
Re: The Sierra Williams “City Watch” story in the July 18 edition: I am surprised that the city (Palm Coast) will allocate thousands of dollars for more tennis/pickleball courts.
I don’t begrudge the tennis buffs having great courts, maintained by the city. My concern is that the city is laying out so much taxpayer money to provide a recreational facility for such a few people. It would be interesting to see what percentage of the population ever use the courts. Perhaps the city can find a place to spend the excess tax money that will benefit all, or at least more, of the population.
JESSE STONER Palm Coast
Editor's Note: The City Council approved a grant agreement with the U.S. Tennis Association for $700,000 to add a stadium court
and four clay courts at the Southern Recreation Center, which currently has 10 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts.
Send letters to the editor to Brent Woronoff at brent@observerlocal news.com. Letters will be edited for clarity and length.
Why I’m voting for Janie Ruddy, my former student
Dear Editor:
Twenty-nine years ago I packed my daughter’s backpack with everything I could think of that would motivate and promote academic success. I put her on the “Crab” school bus and began my 29-year education partnership with Flagler Schools.
I envisioned a K-12 experience that would provide my daughters with a quality academic education and opportunities that would challenge and encourage them to become happy, confident contributors to society. Both of my daughters realized that vision thanks to school boards who actually shared my vision as a parent — a vision that is common to all parents and is the mission statement of our district.
Our Mission: Flagler Schools ensures educational success through high expectations and innovative thinking in a safe learning environment to empower students to reach their full potential as responsible, ethical, and productive citizens in a diverse and changing world.
From the minute Janie and Tim Ruddy’s eldest daughter stepped into my seventh grade civics class in 2015, it was apparent that education would always be a top priority in the Ruddy home. Now, Janie Ruddy is running for the District 3 seat on the Flagler County School Board. She is determined to move the conversation and vision back to the education of our students. Janie understands that in order to be an “A” school district we must
not only provide our students with a rigorous curriculum and effective instruction but with a path to opportunities that extend beyond graduation.
Fairly, School Board members are charged with making many decisions that go beyond the academic learning of our students. Decisions that involve facility management, operational needs and requirements and implementation of state mandates, all of which require prudent fiscal perspective driven by a very finite budget. However, as a parent, educator and community member, I believe all of those decisions should be prefaced with the question: How will this impact the safety, wellbeing, academic experience and opportunities of our students? This question should always be
Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com
OBO Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com
Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com
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LETTERS
Send letters to brian@ observerlocalnews.com.
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50 Leanni Way, Unit C3 Palm Coast, FL 32137
Robert Burbridge
on the table and I want Janie Ruddy there to remind her fellow board members to consider the question before making decisions.
A fundamental understanding of education is the linchpin of an effective School Board; Janie Ruddy will bring her education expertise and perspective to the school board discussions and decision making process. Take note, universities, businesses, corporations and startups are on the hunt for well-educated, motivated, skilled human capital. Flagler County students can deliver! Vote Janie Ruddy, School Board District 3.
TERRI SMITH Palm Coast
Branch of military: U.S. Army Dates of service: 1967-1968 Rank/occupation: Specialist 5 / Infantry (Personnel Specialist) Hometown: Grove City, Ohio Robert Burbridge was kind and generous enough to donate a statue of a United States soldier to the Flagler County Veterans Services Office. It stands guard outside the offices of the service officers. Burbridge is a veteran of the Vietnam War. He volunteered for service and was originally designated a personnel specialist. That changed when he was sent to Vietnam. Burbridge served with the 197th Infantry Brigade, 3rd U.S. Amy. He was a marksman with the M-14 and M-16 rifles and an expert marksman with the M-60 machine gun. He was thrust into the infantry and was involved in intense close combat operations, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB). Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he also received the following decorations, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 device.
NEED HELP WITH VETERAN SERVICES?
For information about benefits and support organizations for veterans, call
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Wave runners
Odyssey Adventure Club founder Steve Waterman is in his 17th year hosting kids camps.
Odyssey Adventure Club owner Steve Waterman founded his kids’ camps with the ideology of them being based on conservation and STEM. It is his 17th year in operation, with surf camps being held the past three years.
Surf camp is four straight days of surfing. He said what makes the camp unique is that they change locations every day, which adds to the excitement. Camp counselor Scott Crooke checks the weather, tides and swells on a daily basis, all of which dictates where the campers end up surfing.
“Last year we did surf and springs camp,” Waterman said. “We did a spring day on Wednesday and on Friday to give them a break from the sun, but the kids that come here really live, breath and eat surfing. They want to surf.”
Crooke said there has been a noticeable difference surfing in the areas of Wilburby-the-Sea and south to the Ponce Inle. Surfing used to be good in this area when the tide was high, he said, but due to the beach erosion caused by last year’s hurricanes, he has had to adjust where the campers surf. In Ormond Beach, the campers caught some good waves during incoming tide which, for Crooke, has historically been better during low tide.
“I feel like that is just the cycle of nature,” he said. “In a few more years, it will be different. The ocean temperature is cooler right now because of the upwelling from (hurricane) Beryl. The upwelling has been refreshing.”
As a dean at Indian Trails Middle School in Palm Coast, it was necessary for Crooke to leave OAC early this year to prepare for the upcoming school year. The first day of school for Flagler Schools is Aug. 12.
“I want the kids to get how much fun it is to just be out here with their friends,” he said. “Whether there are bigger waves or smaller waves, they’ve learned a little bit about the ocean and the fun involved in being a surfer. Luckily, our camp day is long so we get to see the changes
from the tide shifts. They get to learn to love this stuff as kids so they do it when they’re old.”
Adventure camp is Waterman’s flagship. Campers begin the week at Sanchez Park, which is situated on the Tomoka River in Ormond Beach. They spend the week paddle boarding, kayaking, rock climbing, disc golfing and ice skating. Camp counselor Jan-Michael Scott brings out the challenge games on Tuesday mornings.
Scott is in his eighth year as an OAC counselor. He is going into his fourth year as a physical education teacher at Old Kings Elementary School in Palm Coast. He said it is paramount for kids to understand the safety aspects of paddle boarding and kayaking.
“I want them to enjoy the outdoors and understand the safety things that come along with paddling — understand how to paddle and understand it is a lifelong activity,” he said. “It really is something you can do until you can’t do it anymore.”
Waterman said he and his staff stress water safety and open up each camp activity with specific instructions.
“It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been here, we do instruction before anyone gets in the water,” he said. “No matter where you are, you should always know your location. We emphasize safety and we emphasize actual skills. We don’t just throw them in there on a kayak or paddle board and let them take off. We want them to understand the nuances of paddling.”
Waterman said campers can count on eating watermelon every day including an iconic rind-throwing competition and a cookout at Alexander Springs on Fridays for some team building activities and some camaraderie.
Grace Gildon has been attending the surf camp for the past few years.
“When I look at summer, this is what I think of — this camp,” she said. “This week is one of the best weeks of summer. You can’t really top it off. You get to surf. You get to be at the beach. You get to get tan. You get ice cream every day and you get to meet a lot of new people.”
“When I look at summer, this is what I think of — this camp. This week is one of the best weeks of summer. You can’t really top it off. You get to surf. You get to be at the beach. You get to get tan. You get ice cream every day and you get to meet a lot of new people.”
Odyssey
Adventure Club surf camper
Grace Gildon and owner Steve Waterman
Caroline Brown jumps into the Tomoka River during the Odyssey Adventure Club camp at Sanchez Park in Ormond Beach.
Caroline Brown (right) pours liquid in Finlee Welch’s mouth as the friends goof around during a break.
Odyssey Adventure Club surf camp counselor Scott Crooke and his daughter Adasyn goof around. Photo by Michele Meyers
MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
GRACE GILDON, Odyssey Adventure Club camper
9-year-old Anaya Downing hangs out with her aunt 10-year-old Jasmine Downing.
Odyssey Adventure Club surf camp volunteer Tyler Young
Odyssey Adventure Club surfers Eli Wittnebert, Luke Gildon and Austin Brown (front) play in the waves at Toronita Avenue Park beach in Wilbur-by-the-Sea.
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 25
PALM COAST
CONCERT SERIES
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Stage, 1500 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: See the Southern Chaos band bring coun-
try and rock to The Stage. There will be food trucks and vendors. Bring your own lawn chair or towel to sit on.
FRIDAY, JULY 26
SUMMER CLASSES FOR KIDS
When: 12-2 p.m.
Where: Art Among the Flowers, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite A114, Palm Coast Details: Art Among the Flowers is offering classes
for children ages 7-16. Class include a tour of the flower shop, exploring and learning about the different plants and flowers, and then hands-on learning a different technique with a professional instructor. Children also get to take their creations home. This class will teach them to design a live succulent garden in a decorative container. Class costs $25. Visit artamongtheflowers.com.
SUMMER SOUNDS
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: See Stealing Vanity perform a free concert in the north lawn of The Casements. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.
‘42ND STREET’
When: 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 26 and 27; 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 28
Where: Davidson Theatre at the News Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach Details: Halifax Repertory Theatre presents, “42nd Street,” a high-energy tapfilled show that transports audiences to the 1930s in New York City. Tickets cost $30 for adults; $25 for seniors and students. Visit halifaxrep.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 27
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
When: All day (Santa to be
out between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Where: Downtown Ormond Beach
Details: Ormond MainStreet is hosting Christmas in July, featuring over 40 local businesses and restaurants. There will be an Elf on a Shelf scavenger hunt, appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus, promotions and letters to Santa at Rod’s Carpet, Tile & Wood. Visit ormondbeachmainstreet.com/christmasinjuly.
THURSDAY, AUG. 1
RALLY FOR WOMEN’S REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS
When: 4-5 p.m.
Where: Northwest corner of Belle Terre Parkway and Pine Lake Parkway, Palm Coast Details: Members and friends of the Atlantic Coast Chapter of Americans United for Separation of Church and State will gather to rally for women’s reproductive rights. Rally is open to the public. All are welcome. Email atlantic-
coastau@gmail.com or call 804-914-4460.
FRIDAY, AUG. 2
MOVIES ON THE HALIFAX
When: 8:30 p.m.
Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “The Bad Guys,” rated G. Movies are weather-sensitive. Call 386-676-3216 for rainout information.
SATURDAY, AUG. 3
ORMOND ART WALK
When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery, Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art events.
TRIBUTES
Kenneth John Klinkenberg November 20,1935-July 8,2024
The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has transformed various sectors, including healthcare, where they are revolutionizing the design and functionality of hearing aids. These intelligent technologies enhance the ability of hearing aids to provide clearer, more personalized auditory experiences for hearing impaired patients.
Integration of AI and ML
AI and ML have taken digital hearing aid technology to new heights by enabling devices to learn from your specific behavior and the environments you are in most. These technologies allow hearing aids to provide better hearing via a more tailored hearing experience. Here’s how:
1. Sound Classification and Adaptation: Modern hearing aids equipped with AI can classify different sound environments, such as quiet rooms, noisy streets, or crowded restaurants. ML algorithms analyze sound patterns and adjust the amplification and noise reduction settings in real time, ensuring optimal hearing in various situations.
2. Personalization: Premium AI-driven hearing aids can learn your preferences over time. For instance, if you consistently adjust the volume certain environments, the hearing aid can automatically make these adjustments for you in the future. This personalized approach minimiz-
es the need for manual adjustments and enhances your comfort and satisfaction.
3. Speech Enhancement: One of the critical challenges for hearing aid users is distinguishing speech in noisy environments. In fact, this is the number one complaint of hearing aid users. AI and ML algorithms can focus on enhancing speech signals while decreasing background noise. Some advanced models use deep learning to improve the clarity of speech further, making conversations more intelligible even in challenging listening situations.
4. Feedback Management: Feedback, the annoying whistling sound that can occur in hearing aids, is a common issue. AI technology helps predict and suppress feedback before it becomes audible, ensuring a more pleasant listening experience.
5. Connectivity and Data Integration: Modern hearing aids can connect to smartphones and other devices, enabling seamless streaming of audio.
Kenneth was born in Jamaica, Queens, and grew up in Staten Island, New York. He joined the army in 1954. After boot camp at Fort Dix, Ken was transferred to Fort Eustis in Newport News, VA. He became a PFC and served in the Transportation Corps, helping the USAF provide supplies to the DEW Line in Canada for SAC. After the Army, he served in the reserves from 1956-1962.
After the Army, he worked as an auditor for Bankers Trust, at their headquarters on Wall Street. It was there that he met Antoinette (Ann), his future wife.
In 1960, Ken became a police officer for the New York City Police Department. In 1966, he was promoted to detective. He worked for the NYPD for 33 years.
In 1994, Ken and Ann retired to Palm Coast from Staten Island, NY. He served on the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans local board and was involved in various organizations in Flagler County such as the Kiwanis Club, Masons, and Shriners. He was also a longtime member of the Elks Club.
AI plays a role in optimizing these connections, ensuring that sound quality remains high. Additionally, data collected from these devices can be used to improve the performance of hearing aids further. For example, usage patterns and environmental data can be analyzed to refine algorithms and enhance overall functionality.
The future of AI and ML in hearing aids looks promising. Ongoing advancements in these technologies are expected to lead to even more sophisticated and user-friendly devices. Here are some anticipated developments:
1. Enhanced Natural Language Processing: Future hearing aids may incorporate advanced natural language processing (NLP) capabilities, allowing them to understand and respond to voice commands more accurately. This could make interaction with the devices more intuitive.
Ken was happily married to Ann for 64 years, has three daughters, four grandchildren, 1 step-grandson and twin great-grandsons. A memorial service will be held at Shepherd of the Coast Lutheran Church at 10 AM on Friday, July 26. A gathering to share memories and support the family will be held at the Elks Club immediately following the service. All are welcome.
2. Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: AR technology could be integrated with hearing aids to provide visual cues that complement auditory information. For example, AR glasses could display subtitles for conversations or highlight the source of sounds, providing a richer sensory experience.
3. Health Monitoring: Hearing aids could evolve into multifunctional health monitoring devices. Equipped with sensors, they could track vital signs, detect falls, and monitor physical activity, providing valuable health data to users and healthcare providers.
AI and ML technologies are transforming hearing aids from simple sound amplifiers into intelligent, adaptive devices that significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing
loss. By continuously learning and adapting to your needs and environments, these advanced hearing aids offer a level of personalization and convenience that was unimaginable just a few years ago. As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions that will further enhance the auditory experiences of users worldwide. Now keep in mind, not all hearing devices have this advanced technology- talk to your audiologist and see if this technology could help you! At Palm Coast and Ormond Hearing Centers, our mission is to provide the best quality hearing care possible, educate the community and help all patients make informed decisions so they can get the care they need and deserve. Want to learn more about hearing health? Visit our website at palmcoasthearingcenter.com and click the “About” button, then “Helpful Articles”. You can also schedule an appointment online. We also have a second location to serve you in Ormond Beach at www. ormondhearingcenter.com, or you can call us at 386-283-4932.
World War II veteran Al Smith celebrates his 101st birthday
On Thursday, July 18, World War II veteran Al Smith celebrated his 101st birthday at his Palm Coast home.
Fr. Manny Lopez and a group of Fourth Degree Sir Knights of Columbus from Assembly 2810 at Santa Maria Del Mar Catholic Church in Flagler Beach brought him a special cake, made by Sir Knight Frank Consentino. He also received a special congratulatory proclamation from U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz. White House congratulations are forthcoming.
During WWII, Smith was in the U.S. Army Air Corps stationed on the island of Ie Shima, just off Okinawa, where he directed fighter plane missions. Ie Shima is the island where famous war correspondent Ernie Pyle was killed. Among the celebrants at Smith’s party was WWII U.S. Navy veteran Pat Martellucci, 98, who introduced Smith to his wife Greta when they were 85 and 86, respectively. Greta, who is 100 years old, was part of the
WWII U.S. Navy WAVES, or Women
Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service.
She was recently transferred to a local assisted living facility, but was looking forward to a piece of that chocolate cake.
Al and Greta’s daughter-in-law, Midge Franco Woodward, hosted the Knights.
One Voice Volusia merges under Flagler Cares organization
Flagler Cares and One Voice for Volusia announce that the two organizations have merged into one corporate structure under Flagler Cares.
Flagler Cares will remain committed to providing a social safety net, behavioral health and outpatient counseling and prevention services for Flagler County. One Voice for Volusia is doing business as the Substance Use Prevention Coalition as a neutral community facilitator in Volusia County addressing risk factors and building protections to prevent youth substance use. By joining forces, the two organizations will preserve what makes each organization unique but also enhance their ability to serve. Both communities, Flagler and Volusia, will benefit from the increased resources and cost savings, allowing for an even greater impact.
“This corporate merger represents the logical next step since the two organizations formed a formal partnership four years ago,” said Flagler Cares Chief Executive Officer Carrie Baird. “It is unique and important that a Flagler-focused organization is leading this regional approach as it is quite often the other way around.”
Kristy Amburgey, chief executive officer of One Voice for Volusia, said, “Collaboration is a core value for One Voice for Volusia, and the previous partnership and now merger solidifies our relationship to better serve both counties in innovative and coordinated ways. I truly see a bright future for Flagler Cares d/b/a One Voice for Volusia as we work with even more wonderful community providers and collaborators.”
One-stop Help Night set for July
31Flagler Cares will host its next quarterly Help Night on Wednesday, July 31, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Flagler County Village Community Room, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B304, Palm Coast.
Help Night is organized and hosted by Flagler Cares and other community partners as a one-stop help event. Representatives from Flagler County Human Services, Early Learning Coalition, EasterSeals, Family Life Center, Florida Legal Services, Lions Club and many other organizations will be available to provide information and resources.
The event is open to the public, free to attend, and will offer assistance with obtaining various services including autism screenings, phones (low-income qualification), fair housing legal consultations, Marketplace navigation, childcare
services, SNAP and Medicaid application assistance, behavioral health services and much more.
Flagler Cares is a non-profit agency focused on creating a vital, expansive social safety net that addresses virtually all the health and social needs of our community.
For more information about this event, call 386-319-9483 ext. 0, or email help@flaglercares.org.
Flagler
Cares
announces new community partner
Flagler Cares, a one-stop health and social care organization, welcomed Re-Nu Mental Wellness Center to the Flagler County Village in Palm Coast, on July 1, as a community partner.
Re-Nu Mental Wellness Center, formerly known as Palm Coast Counseling, was recently sold to Dr. De-Shaunah Dixon, who also owns Wellness Centers in Pompano Beach and Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Re-Nu provides comprehensive psychotherapy and mental health medication management for individuals of all ages. Re-Nu currently accepts all major insurances including Cigna, Aetna, Optum, TRICARE and Blue Cross Blue Shield FL/SC.
Current and new patients will be seen in-person at the Flagler County Village, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B302. Telehealth services are also available.
“I am thrilled to have Re-Nu Mental Wellness Center partner with Flagler Cares at the Flagler County Village,” said Jeannette Simmons, Flagler Cares’ chief clinical officer.
“This presents a tremendous opportunity for my team and I to deliver comprehensive mental health services to Palm Coast and its neighboring communities.”
Educational backpack drive to be hosted at Ormond’s SONC
Ormond Beach’s Martin Luther King
Jr. Committee is working to ensure 400 of the city’s children are ready for the first day of school.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, the committee will be hosting the first Carrying Hope Back 2 School event at the South Ormond Neighborhood Center. To be presented by Access Senior Resources
August 14, 2024 Winners announced Monday, August 15, 2024
and Consulting, the event will feature a free backpack giveaway for residents, educational sessions, games and food catered by Gordon Food Service.
The event was proposed by Tina Carlyle, chair of the MLK committee and owner of ASRC, who said she was looking to increase outreach efforts in her own community.
“I want to start really giving more to my Ormond Beach community — letting them know that there are people out here that care,” she said.
Then, she met Njeria Bell, an Ormond Beach resident who started her own backpack giveaway during the COVID-19 pandemic. That first year, she gave away 50 backpacks equipped with school supplies. Last year, she distributed 100 backpacks.
“There was just families and so many people that were just having a hard time,” Bell said. “I just had this idea of ‘No Child Left Behind.’ I just started buying items out of my own pocket and getting donations from people that I knew.”
Bell also distributed backpacks to children who were sick with COVID-19 during the pandemic, dropping them off on their doorsteps.
“There was this one kid — I can still remember, he was just ecstatic,” Bell said. “He wanted a Spider-Man book bag and wasn’t really more about the supplies. It was just about the book bag.”
So when Carlyle asked Bell if she would like to join forces for the upcoming back-to-school event, Bell agreed. She said she looks forward to see a giveaway of 400 backpacks.
“I’m excited to do that much because I was never able to reach that goal,” she said.
At the event, the educational sessions will touch on topics such as safety, health and hygiene. There will also be information on resources that are available to help local families with meals, tutoring and other needs.
Being an advanced practice registered nurse, the education piece is important to Carlyle. She wants the kids to “carry hope” this year.
“We’re just putting this together because we want our kids to be able to go to school this year, and moving forward, with a little bit less anxiety,” Carlyle said. “A little bit something more to look forward to.”
Back row: Gregg Wilson, Father Manny Lopez and Mike Boullion. Front row: Kevin Ryan, Pat Martellucci, Al Smith, Steve Scifo, Armando Garcia and Frank Consentino. Courtesy photo
Flagler Cares Chief Executive Officer Carrie Baird. File photo
By Luis Campos
WHAT A FEELING by Gary Larson, edited by Jeff Chen
Non Sequitur
Nancy
Mother Goose and Grimm
The Duplex
In the Bleachers
Cornered
Ziggy
The Fusco Brothers
SPORTS
Borgmann, Mills invited to wrestle with Team USA in Bahrain tourney
Flagler Palm Coast’s Christina Borgmann placed sixth at elite national freestyle tournament in Fargo, North Dakota.
Christina Borgmann and Mariah Mills have proven they are among the top high school girls wrestlers in the nation. Now they’ll get the chance to show what they can do on the international stage.
They both have been invited to wrestle for Team USA in the International School Sports Federation’s World School Sports Games in Manama, Bahrain, this October.
On July 13-14, the two rising seniors competed in the 2024 U.S. Marine Corps Junior and 16U Nationals at Fargo, North Dakota, the world’s largest freestyle high school wrestling tournament with nearly 7,000 wrestlers competing.
Borgmann placed sixth in the Junior Women 130-pound class, achieving All-American honors.
The Flagler Palm Coast High School wrestler won six of eight matches in the tournament, advancing to the consolation semifinals.
Borgmann entered the bracket as the No. 9 seed. Advancing as far she did was quite an accomplishment, FPC coach David Bossardet said.
“This is the tournament you want to win if you’re a high school athlete,” Bossardet said. “It’s the biggest and
toughest tournament there is for high school kids.”
Borgmann was one of four FPC girls wrestlers who competed in the tournament. Joslyn Johnson, Alexa Calidonio and Alisha Vilar were the others. Bossardet did not make the trip to Fargo, instead staying home to lead Flagler Wrestling Club practices.
“Christina texted me five minutes after her last match,” Bossardet said. “She said she wasn’t satisfied. She wants to win every tournament.
That’s what I like about her. I’m proud of the way she competed.”
Mills, who lives in Ormond Beach and competed at Matanzas High the past three seasons, went 4-2 in the Junior Women 115-pound class. Mills defeated three state champions in her bracket but was disappointed with her final result.
Mills, however, is currently wrestling without a club team. She does not have much experience in freestyle wrestling and entered the tournament unseeded but defeated three seeded wrestlers. She trained as a guest with a variety of teams and coaches to prepare for the tournament.
“She’s been practicing so hard, going to different places, and it really showed,” said her father, Abe Mills.
She wrestled on the beach with former Matanzas coach Mike Fries and some of her former teammates. She traveled to Orlando, DeLand and FPC. Bossardet said Mills has been a positive addition to the FPC wrestling room when she’s there.
“When she’s around, she makes everyone better,” he said.
She went to practices at Lake Highland Prep in Orlando; drove
with her mom to Venice, Florida, and back in one day for a practice; trained for a week at Wyoming Seminary Preparatory School in Pennsylvania. She was also invited to a Fellowship of Christian Athletes clinic where she trained with Jordan Burroughs, a 2012 Olympic gold medalist and six-time world champ in freestyle wrestling.
“It’s a sad situation that she didn’t have a home (base),” said Rachel Mills, Mariah’s mother. “But she didn’t sulk. She just took matters in her own hands. God opened so many doors for her. It’s pretty miraculous to see how many people reached out to her and helped her. She’s so resilient and just kept at it.”
Mariah Mills is now raising money for her trip to Bahrain. The fee for travel and competition is $2,800 and she is halfway there, according to her Facebook post. Donations are accepted on Venmo (@Abe-Mills), Cash App ($theabemills) and PayPal (@AbdullahMills).
Mills and FPC’s four wrestlers all competed with Team Florida at Fargo. FPC’s Johnson went 3-2 in the tournament, while Calidonio and Vilar were each 2-2.
Matanzas High soccer campers take their game indoors
The Pirates hosted two youth camps this summer to promote their program and encourage a new generation of soccer players.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
For most of the three-day Matanzas High School youth soccer camp, the Pirates went with Plan B.
The weather did not cooperate on the evenings of July 17-19, so the coaches took the 22 campers into the gym and turned the skills camp into a “futsal” camp — the indoor version of the outdoor game.
Instead of taking long shots on goal, the campers concentrated on controlling the ball on a fast surface.
“We used the backup plan,” Matanzas boys soccer coach Beto Aguilar said. “Florida weather is always unpredictable, so we had to take it indoors. The ball’s going to be moving a little bit faster (on the hard wood surface) and now they’re having to work on their technique to keep the ball close. It was a good opportunity to show the kids another aspect of soccer. Futsal is an integral part of outside soccer. A lot of pro teams do futsal.”
This was the first year the Pirates have put on youth camps. They also
hosted a three-day morning camp at the end of May. Both camps were for boys and girls in grades 3 through 8. Matanzas boys and girls soccer players helped run the drills with a different group of high school players helping out each day. The camps were organized by the boys soccer booster club, benefiting the boys program.
“We wanted to promote Matanzas soccer and have our high school kids interact with the younger kids, and maybe they’ll find a role model,” Aguilar said. “So that’s why I try to get all of our players to come out as much as they can, so we can make some fans, where they say, ‘I want to play like him,’ or ‘I want to play like her.’”
Matanzas held its camp just a week after Flagler Palm Coast hosted a similar soccer camp. Aguilar said both camps are helping promote the sport in Flagler County.
“I like that FPC was doing their camp too,” Aguilar said. “It’s giving out programs some exposure and kind of helping create that soccer culture. Hopefully in the future these camps will help both of our programs be successful.”
Maria Mills at the 2024 U.S. Marine Corps Junior and 16U Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota.
Christina Borgmann placed sixth in her weight class at the 2024 U.S. Marine Corps Junior and 16U Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota. Courtesy photos
Elijah Xiong (left) marks Braelyn Somera. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Austin Brown (left) and Haley Fields.
Blake Gallo (left) goes for the goal on the indoor court as Kasen Gaydon plays defense.