Day 1 for Flagler Schools
Smiles,
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Holly Albanese opened the groundbreaking ceremony on Aug. 12 for the Flagler County Nexus Center by saying her speech would not be short. Since she is Flagler County’s library director, in addition to its assistant administrator, she described herself as a story teller. And she had quite a story to tell. She spent nine years making the project to build the future library and Health and Human Services facility a reality and she would spend a minute for each of those years talking about the $16 million multipurpose center, which is due to be completed on Oct. 1, 2025. Actually, she could have talked for another 10 minutes, because “in reality I’ve been planning for this for 19 years,” she said. As Albanese and the other speakers took their turns at the microphone
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continued the Flagler Beach beach renourishment project on Aug. 9. Photo by Jake Montgomery
CITY WATCH
Palm Coast to celebrate its 25th anniversary
The city of Palm Coast will host a 25th anniversary celebration on Oct. 26 in Central Park in Town Center.
“Incorporated in 1999, Palm Coast is one of Florida’s youngest cities, and we are excited to celebrate 25 years of being Florida’s city on the rise,” a city news release states. “We invite all Palm Coast residents to commemorate this milestone through a series of special events highlighting our community’s vibrant spirit and history.”
The anniversary celebration will feature live music. food and activities. It will be free and open to the public.
“Celebrating our 25th anniversary is not just about looking back at the wonderful progress we’ve made but also about looking forward to a bright future together,” said Mayor David Alfin.
The city will also be adding “special touches” to its annual end-of-year-events, including the Senior Games, the annual tree lighting ceremony and the Starlight Parade. Visit palmcoast25.com for more details.
Developers to fund arts in Palm Coast?
Developers could soon be the source of funding for Palm Coast’s arts and culture programs.
During a workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 13, the City Council discussed alternative funding opportunities to expand arts, culture and history events and initiatives. City staff presented the council members with options such as a bond referendum similar to Volusia County’s ECHO (Environmental, Cultural, Historical and Outdoor Recreation) program, and, funds generated via solar project savings dollars.
But it was a “percentage-for-art” ordinance that council members thought should be implemented in Palm Coast. Particularly, an ordinance similar to that of the city of Sarasota, which applies to property owners or developers who apply for a building permit for construction or improvements exceeding $1 million.
In Sarasota, those developers are then required to contribute 0.5% of the construction cost to the public art fund, provide public art on the development site, or provide public art somewhere else.
“If we were to go this route, just from commercial buildings only in the last 12 months, with a 0.5%, we could look at 978,000 [dollars] contributing to an art fund, just in our city ourselves,” said James Hirst, city director of Parks and Recreation.
Councilwoman Theresa Pontieri said she believed Sarasota had a good structure to its ordinance, as the small percentage in large developments generates significant dollars.
But, she wanted to make sure the city tailored the ordinance to Palm Coast’s needs, creating exceptions so that issues like affordable housing are not impacted.
“We’re really behind the eight ball on this, so I think that it’s good that
we’re doing it,” she said. “I think we should move expeditiously on it.”
Mayor David Alfin agreed that development should help fund local arts and culture.
“The more we invest in the arts and culture and history piece, the more valuable our city becomes, not just for residents, but for the future,” Alfin said. “No question about it.”
Councilman Nick Klufas said the ordinance should also include language that mandates a percentage of the contribution be money instead of contributions made onsite.
“So that we can allocate the dollars how we see fit and not necessarily because they have one piece of art that they value at half-a-million dollars, that it absolves them from this obligation,” Klufas said.
City staff was also looking for direction regarding separating arts
and culture from Parks and Rec. Pontieri said she would rather have Parks and Rec manage the arts fund for at least two years until the city had enough dollars generated that would help to either create a new department or recategorize as a separate division under Parks and Rec.
“At this time, we’re scraping for dollars right now, specifically to fund public safety, which I think has to be prioritized over arts and culture,” Pontieri said.
The city is also planning to reintroduce its Art in Public Places committee, which was established in 2011 and was composed of seven members. It was a subcommittee under the Beautification and Environmental Advisory Committee, and would evaluate art and coordinate with the artist before bringing it before the BEAC.
Years ago, Holly Albanese said, when she asked the county commission for money, she was told to find it. “I found it (by starting) the passport program,” she said. Flagler County breaks ground on Nexus Center. See Page 1A, 9A
Candidate
criticizes Mayor Alfin in comment
At the City Council meeting May 13, mayoral candidate Cornelia Downing Manfre criticized Mayor David Alfin. She also sent her statement to the Observer, which reads as follows:
“This is the second time I have had to speak about Mr. Alfin apparently using public money and staff for his own political purposes.
“I understand that a new city social media advertisement about city council meetings featuring Mr. Alfin curiously began on Friday the day before early voting began. This smacks of unethical behavior.
“In addition, I was informed by the president of the Grand Haven CDD that you, Mr. Alfin, stated that you committed to inviting all mayoral candidates to an event at Grand Haven that used the CDD email system to advertise. You did not invite a single mayoral candidate. This is a pattern of behavior on your part that the voting public should be informed of.” Alfin thanked her for her comment during the meeting. Food Truck event to help MHS band Palm Coast’s
Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches Senior Games will begin on Sept. 13. Visit www.palmcoast.gov/ seniorgames to register.
People peruse booths at the 2022 Palm Coast Fall Arts Festival. File photo by Danny Broadhurst
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
How to make schools safer? Districts aim for a proactive approach
Districts work together to educate students on substance abuse and violence and then hold them accountable.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Seventh Judicial Circuit State Attorney R.J. Larizza and the four school districts in the circuit, including Volusia and Flagler counties, are partnering on a new initiative called “Safety First, Success Always,” to address substance use and violence in the schools and communities.
Larizza, Florida Speaker of the House Paul Renner of Palm Coast and the superintendents of the four school districts, which also include St. Johns and Putnam counties, participated in a press conference Aug. 8 at the Kim C. Hammond Justice Center in Bunnell.
The initiative has three pillars: education, awareness and accountability. The school districts and the office of the state attorney have been working for about a year on a collaborative approach to deal with substance use, especially vaping; and violence, including fighting, threats and guns.
In May, stakeholder meetings were held with parents and students from
each of the districts to get their feedback.
“We’re in a fight to make sure that we prepare our students, our children, for the future,” Larizza said.
“‘Safety First, Success Always’ is our slogan, and that is our priority — to protect, prepare and keep safe our most precious asset, our children.”
The education component will be incorporated into the state’s minimum five-hour required instruction of “Character and Life Skills through Resiliency Education” for sixth through 12th graders beginning in the upcoming school year.
“Collectively, all four school districts will implement education and curriculum on substance use with an emphasis on vaping, because that’s a real problem in all of our communities,” St. Johns County Superintendent Tim Forson said. “In addition, assemblies will be held that educate students in all grade levels on the dangers of substance use and violence, impressing upon them to ‘See something, Say Something.’”
In an interview with the Observer, Volusia County Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin said Volusia County will offer a nine-week educational vaping program for firsttime offenders.
“There’s a lot of research that they will learn about within that nine weeks,” Balgobin said. “It’s a realistic program that is gauged to inspire. But most importantly, change the thinking of the learner and equip them with the skillset that they need to make better decisions in the future.”
John Fanelli, Flagler Schools’ director of student services, is the point person for the initiative in Flagler County. When the student services departments from the four districts got together to discuss their priorities for the initiative, they all said vaping, he said.
“Then we started talking about how are we going to address it,” Fanelli told the Observer. “So we’re trying not to just give them punitive consequences which really are not getting to the root causes of the issues. So, educating parents on what to look for and educating students on
“We want to make sure they understand the resources that are available to them. ... But also, if we need to react, that we have the right interventions in place. When you do all those things, you are empowering a community.”
DR.
“This is being proactive. ... They’re going ahead and acting because they see that there are problems simmering underneath the surface in all these areas. The goal, I hope here, is to make those smaller problems today remain small and go away and not become large problems of addiction, of gun violence and other things.”
REP. PAUL RENNER
the effects. A lot of times students don’t realize that vaping doesn’t just affect the lungs. It can cause them to be depressed or to be confused, and they don’t even realize that it’s the vaping that’s doing it to them.”
The awareness component will come through public service announcement videos created by the state attorney’s office with the districts as well as by students for students and by parents for parents, Balgobin said. The videos will be distributed into the communities to raise awareness of risk and consequences.
“We want to make sure they understand the resources that are available to them,” Balgobin said. “We can talk about counseling, we can talk about mental health and some of the additional resources that are available in our communities and how we can bring those resources together and have it on a fingertip so that we can be preventive. But also, if we need to react, that we have the right interventions in place. When you do all those things, you are empowering a community.”
Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore said all four districts have been working together to provide a unified message on accountability, which will include educating students and families on consequences of offenses.
“We had our student services staffs work on providing a common code of conduct,” Putnam County Superintendent Rick Surrency said, “so that we provide those consequences and accountability measures for the things that we all face.”
Renner said what State Attorney Larizza and the four superintendents have done is a great example of proactive leadership.
“That was something that was lacking before (the Parkland shooting), and when I look at this, it makes me sad as to what happened as many years ago, because all three of those pillars were absent,” Renner said. “If you read the report about the Parkland shooter, he was in contact with school officials, he was in
contact with mental health professionals, with law enforcement, and importantly, many of the students knew that he was not going in a good direction, yet nothing happened. There was a lack of education, a lack of awareness and ultimately a lack of accountability with this idea that we’re not going to hold people accountable and somehow the problems will just go away.
“So, this is being proactive,” Renner said. “We didn’t have a shooting here. They’re going ahead and acting because they see that there are problems simmering underneath the surface in all these areas. The goal, I hope, here, is to make those smaller problems today remain small and go away and not become large problems of addiction, of gun violence and other things.”
Renner and Larizza said they would like to see the program go statewide.
“I believe this is the first initiative of its kind in the state of Florida,” Larizza said. “I expect this to be an example. That’s our plan. We want to push this out to other circuits. We know how to prosecute, but what about prevention? Wouldn’t it be nice if we could prevent a crime before it happens through education, through awareness and through accountability? The bottom line is that we are going to work together to make sure that the community is safe, that the schools are safe. But we’re also going to want these kids to understand and learn the consequences when they get involved in something that they shouldn’t.”
What’s your view on school safety? Email letters to the editor to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
“We know how to prosecute, but what about prevention? Wouldn’t it be nice if we could prevent a crime before it happens through education, through awareness and through accountability?”
R.J. LARIZZA, state attorney
State Rep. Paul Renner, State Attorney R.J. Larizza, Putnam Superintendent Rick Surrency, St. Johns Superintendent Tim Forson, Volusia Superintendent Carmen Balgobin and Flagler Superin-
tendent LaShakia Moore at the press conference to announce the Seventh Circuit’s “Safety First, Success Always” initiative. Photos by Brent Woronoff
CARMEN BALGOBIN, Volusia County Superintendent
Food Truck Tuesday is back on Tuesday, Aug. 20! Join us along Park Street in Central Park from 5-8pm. This month’s event benefits Matanzas High School - Band of Pirates.
Sand project forges on after Hurricane Debby
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The storm had little effect on Flagler beaches. Also: More sand will be added in the vicinity of the pier.
Hurricane Debby inflicted only minimal erosion to areas of Flagler Beach that have been renourished, which had little effect on the Army Corps of Engineers’ project, county engineer Ansley Wren-Key said.
The USACE are building the berm — which is the area of the beach where people lounge — out to 140 feet, which is 70 to 80 feet deeper than it needs to be, said Wren-Key, Flagler County’s coastal engineering administrator.
“Honestly, I would say we
“I would say we got lucky.”
ANSLEY WREN-KEY, Flagler County engineer
got lucky. That storm was more on the order of what a winter storm would be like, which is common,” Wren-Key said.
The erosion that did occur is called the equilibration process. Some of the sand was moved offshore and adjusted to the wave climate, she said.
“Rough waves were taking some of that sand just a little bit offshore, and it’s still sitting right out there,” WrenKey said.
The berm is overbuilt to account for an amount of sand that is taken offshore. That sand still helps break the waves and keeps the wave energy further away from the dunes, she said.
As of last week, the project was about two-thirds complete with 1.1 million cubic yards of sand being placed on the beaches starting at Gamble Rogers State Park and moving north.
The project was close to being done with the federal reach, which is where the USACE and Flagler County are in partnership. The nonfederal section around the
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pier is mostly being funded by the Florida Department of Transportation. That north taper is what the county wanted to add to the federal project, because it is in the downtown area and the county wanted to have a better buffer of protection for the businesses there, WrenKey said.
“We are going to add more sand to the original design on that north taper,” she said, “because that area has eroded a lot, and we saw a lot of erosion during Debby. So we are glad that we went ahead and added about another $1.3 million for the sand there.” That money came from the county’s Hurricane Nicole and Ian recovery funds from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, she said. They hope to finish the project by the end of August, barring no mechanical issues or weather delays, she said.
Johnny Lulgjuraj, owner of Oceanside Bar and Grill, said he is extremely pleased with the project.
“As both a resident and a business owner deeply invested in our community, I am incredibly proud of the transformation we’ve achieved through this beach renourishment project. The before and after results are nothing short of remarkable,” he said in a text. “While it’s true that we’ve lost some of our natural coral-colored sand and the coquina rocks are covered, the benefits far outweigh these changes.”
Lulgjuraj said the longterm advantages for the community — coastal protection and a stable environment for area businesses — are invaluable.
“It was a necessary tradeoff to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and thrive in this beautiful area,” he added.
Email Brent Woronoff at brent@observerlocalnews. com.
A settlement has been reached between the city, Flagler County, and the developer of Hunter’s Ridge. File photo
Flagler, Ormond Beach settle lawsuit
Ormond Beach and Flagler County will enter into an interlocal Flagler limited use of an emergency road.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
The lawsuit between the city of Ormond Beach, Flagler County, and the developer of Hunter’s Ridge has officially come to a conclusion.
The Ormond Beach City Commission approved a settlement with Flagler County and U.S. Capital Alliance LLC, via its consent agenda at its meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 6. According to a memo by City Attorney Randy Hayes, the “parties have mutually agreed to resolve the issues that are the subject of the pending litigation matters and the noncompliance determination.”
In May 16, the Ormond Beach City Commission, the Flagler County Board of Commissioners and the developer held a meeting to discuss settling the lawsuit, which was filed on Oct. 27, 2023, after the Ormond Beach City Commission found the developer to be in noncompliance with the 1991 Hunter’s Ridge Development of Regional Impact because a road easement was
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
granted to Flagler County in 2017 for a logging road known as the 40 Grade, and, because the city had yet to receive almost 300 acres of conservation lands, as dictated in the DRI.
The 40 Grade is located within the conservation lands. At the meeting, the three parties agreed to the following conditions to settle the lawsuit:
Flagler had to convey the road easement back to the developer.
The developer will then convey the conservation lands to the city.
The city and Flagler County will enter into an interlocal agreement allowing the county to use the 40 Grade for limited purposes, including emergency access for Flagler County residents, managing or combatting forestry lands for wildfires, and accessing Flagler’s conservation lands within its own DRI with the developer.
“Following the full and complete performance by all parties, the pending litigation matters will be dismissed, and the parties will be released from all claims,” the city attorney’s memo reads.
A resolution rescinding the developer’s noncompliance determination will come before the City Commission at its meeting on Aug. 20.
I believe we should put the
on the
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.
Andy’s Priorities for a Thriving Flagler County
Preserve
Add
Improve
Prioritizing
Develop
Expand
Fiscally
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continued the Flagler Beach beach renourishment project on Aug. 9. Photos by Jake Montgomery
Humane Society responds to critics
Carotenuto: Those who criticized the shelter at government meetings were led by disgruntled volunteers.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Several former volunteers at the Flagler Humane Society spoke at a Flagler County Commission meeting and at a Palm Coast City Council meeting earlier this month to criticize the shelter’s policies and treatment of animals.
Criticisms included overcrowded conditions, no protocol for euthanasia, no transparency of financial records, dogs that are not walked daily and too often not given clean water.
Humane Society Executive Director Amy Carotenuto said she knew there were some disgruntled volunteers who had made posts on social media but the coordinated public comments at the two meetings caught her by surprise.
“I didn’t know they were going to try to organize this kind of negative campaign against us,” Carotenuto said. “We can’t make everybody happy. The main thing is to try
to keep the animals happy and comfortable.”
One former volunteer said she and two other volunteers were let go because they complained about a pit bull mix named Guapo, who was euthanized last month. Guapo was a volunteer favorite, she said.
Another speaker said Guapo was a healthy 2-year-old. A third said Guapo was set up to fail.
Carotenuto and Animal Care and Placement Manager Kyndra Mott said Guapo came into the facility in December as a stray. He was a 65- to 70-pound pit bull that had problems inside his kennel. He was barrier reactive, Mott said, and he didn’t show well to potential adopters.
“We had an incident with him in a play group where he grabbed onto the neck of another dog and shook him. So he tore the dog’s neck open and he needed 22 staples. After that, he was kind of placed on an eval,” Mott said. “We had a guy interested in taking him, but he had grandkids that would come over. So we did a meet with them, and he showed offensive aggression without a barrier. He lunged and growled, snapped directly at the children. ... He was [also] difficult to walk. Only very experienced, strong dog walkers and staff could take
him out. He also escaped the back kennels a couple times. So it all added up. We have to take into consideration public safety. And if we didn’t think he was going to be containable — and if he would be offensively aggressive to animals or children — we felt it wasn’t safe to place him.”
The Humane Society uses PetPoint software, which most shelters do, allowing shelters to compare all of their animal statistics with other shelters around the state or country, Carotenuto said. The Flagler Humane Society has a euthanizing rate of 5% this year while Florida shelters as a whole have a 12.5% rate, and nationally the rate is 13.2%.
And since the beginning of 2023, they’ve had nearly 3,000 adoptions, she said.
“So we really are doing pretty well,” Carotenuto said.
One complaint she agrees with is the Humane Society is overcrowded. There currently are about 100 dogs and 200 cats in the shelter. Some of the dogs have been there over a year.
“We don’t turn anybody away,” Carotenuto said.
Last week, a woman brought kittens in and told them that if they didn’t take them she would throw them in the woods.
“She probably wouldn’t have done that, but we took them,” Carotenuto said.
“There’s no way they would have survived. So we had to take them.”
The county allocated $284,000 to the Humane Society last year which included animal control. Palm Coast has its own animal control officers. At least three county commissioners — Leann Penington, Donald O’Brien and Greg Hansen — suggested they look into the issue further.
COPS CORNER
2:41 a.m. — First block of Old Kings Road, Palm Coast Possession of methamphetamine, marijuana. Deputies arrested a 28-year-old Miami man who was seen sleeping in his car in the parking lot of a local fast food restaurant.
The deputy reported that he spotted a rolled marijuana cigarette container in the center console, at which point he woke the man up. The man said he was on his way to New Jersey to visit family, and that he’d stopped in Palm Coast to rest. He told the deputy that the container was for medical marijuana, but he wasn’t carrying his medical marijuana card.
While conducting a search in the vehicle, the deputy also found two plastic bags containing methamphetamine inside two chocolate candy containers, according to the report.
The man said the meth, which he referred to as “product,” was left in his car by other people; he said he worked as an Uber driver. When asked why he didn’t get rid of it or contact law enforcement, the man said “honestly I was hoping to see if I could just sell it off in the streets to make a couple extra bucks.”
Police found 1.26 grams of meth and 6 grams of marijuana in his car.
He was taken to jail.
AUG. 5
BITE AND STEAL
4:13 p.m. — 600 block of East Moody Boulevard, Bunnell Battery. A 24-year-old Bunnell woman was arrested after she struck someone at a local dollar store.
According a report by the Sheriff’s Office, the victim told police that she saw the
woman putting items inside a red shopping bag while walking around the store. When the victim approached the woman, she began to walk toward the front door, at which point the victim grabbed the red bag.
The pair pulled the bag back and forth, and then the woman swung at the victim, hitting her in the right shoulder. The victim then took a step back, and the woman “lunged at her attempting to bite her,” according to the arrest report. She then left.
The victim was able to grab the bag and empty the contents near the register. She wished to pursue charges.
The woman was found in the 300 block of North Church Street. She was arrested.
AUG. 6
CAUGHT SPEED
1:31 a.m. — State Road 100, Palm Coast DUI. “I cannot walk a straight line even if I was sober.”
That’s what a 43-yearold Palm Coast woman told troopers when she was pulled over for speeding. According to a report, the woman was going 56 mph on a 45 mph zone, and once stopped, she apologized and said she “caught speed coming over there.”
The woman said she was coming from her bartending job, and the reporting trooper noticed her eyes were bloodshot and that she smelled like alcohol. When asked how much she had to drink, the woman said she had two White Claws. She agreed to perform the field sobriety exercises, but warned the trooper she couldn’t walk in a straight line even when sober. After the exercises, the trooper determined she was indeed impaired. She was arrested and taken to jail.
AUG. 7
UNEXPECTED DEPARTURE
1:19 p.m. — First block of
Choctaw Trail, Ormond Beach Stolen vehicle. A 51-year-old Ormond Beach man’s car was stolen from his driveway after he left his keys inside when returning from a vacation.
Police report that the man arrived at his home the evening prior at around 9 p.m., removing only some of his luggage. The next morning, his car was gone, according to the police report.
The man tracked his vehicle using an AirTag to an apartment complex in Daytona Beach, from which an employee later reported the vehicle was later towed due to it being “abandoned” and having a flat tire.
Police told the resident, who wished to press charges, how to retrieve his vehicle. They also advised him to park it somewhere secure or to look into changing the key fobs.
AUG. 8 PARK AND FIGHT
10:30 p.m. — 600 block of Fleming Avenue, Ormond Beach
Vandalism. A fight in a local park resulted in a dented car with over $1,000 worth of damage.
According to a police report, a 19-year-old Ormond Beach man showed up at the station to report damage to his car. How did the damage happen? He told police that he went to a local park because his friend’s little brother was going to fight another kid his age. While at the park, a total of eight other cars showed up, and they got back in the car along with the kids he was with.
Up to 20 people, he said, got out of their cars and surrounded his, according to the report. They began hitting his car and he drove off.
Two doors were kicked in and left large dents, with other dents all over his car. He and his parents, the registered owners of the car, were unsure if they wanted to pursue charges.
Flagler Humane Society Executive Director Amy Carotenuto in one of the shelter’s cat areas.
Photo by Brent Woronoff
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Flagler Tax Service fraud suspect arrested in Vegas
Since 2021, Robert Newsholme has been the subject of local, federal investigations involving his former tax business.
FLAGLER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Robert “Bob” Newsholme, who had been the subject of local and federal investigations into allegations of fraud and embezzlement since 2021, was arrested on Aug. 7 in Las Vegas. Newsholme, 68, was arrested after Flagler County Sheriff’s Office detectives determined he had conducted an organized scheme to defraud clients of his tax business, Flagler Tax Service.
In August 2021, FCSO fraud investigators opened an investigation into Newsholme and his business after receiving numerous complaints that he had defrauded clients. Working with the Internal Revenue Service and the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, detectives in FCSO’s General Assignment Unit discovered that Newsholme took money from clients to pay their personal or business income taxes and never gave that money to the IRS. They also found that Newsholme was not a certified public accountant as most of his clients believed he was.
After opening over 100 cases from Newsholme’s victims, detectives turned the investigation over to IRS Criminal Investigation in October 2021. However, in August 2023, Sheriff Rick Staly spoke
with the IRS, who told him that, because of a federal technicality, they would not be pursuing the case. Staly then directed that FCSO fraud investigators reopen the case locally.
After a yearlong investigation that included examining all previous complaints and reviewing banking, credit card, and federal tax records, detectives determined that Newsholme had defrauded victims of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Newsholme had moved to Las Vegas. With assistance from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, detectives attempted to interview Newsholme, but he refused to answer the door. Investigators were then able to obtain an arrest warrant for Newsholme in July.
Newsholme had moved after detectives tried to interview him. An investigation determined that he was residing in a nonprofit independent living facility for seniors, where he was attempting to avoid detection. He was arrested on nine counts of grand theft and one count of organized scheme to defraud. He was subsequently booked into the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas as a fugitive from justice and is being held on no bond. Newsholme will be extradited back to Flagler County.
“Although we were disappointed to learn that federal authorities would not be pursuing charges, we knew when we took back over the investigation that our General Assignment Unit had a solid case that would result in an arrest,” Staly said.
BRIEFS
Palm Coast human trafficking suspect faces 34 more charges
A Palm Coast man who was arrested last month on several felony charges, including human trafficking and lewd and lascivious battery on a minor aged 12-16, was served with two additional arrest warrants on Aug. 7, according to a Flagler County Sheriff’s Office press release.
The FCSO Major Case Unit obtained the two additional arrest warrants on David Chenowith, 32, based on a review of evidence recovered from his cell phone by the FCSO’s Digital Forensics Unit. The warrants included 34 offenses.
The warrants were served at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility where Chenowith was being held from the prior arrest. His bond is now $1,034,000.
The first additional arrest warrant was for two counts of promoting sexual performance by a child, which are second-degree felonies, and two counts of an unlawful two-way communication device, which are third-degree felonies.
The second arrest warrant was for the following: 13 counts of an unlawful two-way communication device, third-degree felonies; three counts of transmission of child pornography, third-degree felonies; four counts of lewd and lascivious battery on a minor aged 12-16, second-degree felonies; and 10 counts of promoting sexual performance by a child, second-degree felonies.
Chenowith had been under investigation since June, according to the release. FCSO deputies had obtained an arrest warrant on him last month for multiple felony of-
fenses for human trafficking, lewd and lascivious battery, and unlawful sexual activity with certain minors. At that time a search warrant for Chenowith’s cell phone was also obtained.
Volusia Fire Rescue secures its largest-ever grant
assistance
Volusia County Fire Rescue has secured a $583,636 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the largest assistance to Firefighters Grant the division has ever received, a press release announced Thursday, Aug. 8.
The funds will be used to expand the county’s firefighter training programs, incorporating extensive courses designed to enhance response capabilities and safety across a variety of critical operations.
Firefighters will receive instruction in incident command. The grant will also cover state testing and certification fees. This funding, the county states, “will significantly bolster the division’s ability to respond to emergencies and serve the community with the highest level of expertise.”
“Fire Rescue’s greatest asset is its people, and we believe that the strength of our team lies in the continuous growth and development of each firefighter,” Volusia County Fire Chief Joe King said. “This grant allows us to provide specific training to our team while ensuring they are prepared to protect our community.”
Palm Coast honors promoted firefighters, award winners
The Palm Coast Fire Department held a special ceremony on Aug. 8 at the Palm Coast Community Center honoring newly promoted firefighters and new hires.
Driver engineers Jeremy Barton, Leroy Fisher, Michael LaGreca and Anthony Pedersen were promoted to lieutenants. Firefighters Bill Kerek and Tyler Major were promoted to driver engineer positions.
Five new firefighters joined the team: Joseph Cruz, Evyn Insalaco, Kalin Kelly, Jace Sherbert, Joseph Sweeney, Jacob Weaver and Aaron Welsh all joined the department since February.
The newly promoted firefighters were proudly pinned by their loved ones. Chief Kyle Berryhill highlighted the significance of these advancements, emphasizing how the department’s well-
established succession plan ensures a seamless transition of leadership.
“As we recognize the contributions of retiring fire officers and welcome our newly promoted leaders, we also extend our congratulations to the career firefighters who embarked on their journey through our firefighter intern program,” Mayor David Alfin said. “Under the guidance of Chief Berryhill, I am confident that each of you will continue to provide outstanding care and fire protection for Palm Coast. Success is only achieved through meticulous succession planning.”
The fire department also honored firefighters for their heroic life-saving efforts. Lt. Joseph Fajardo, Lt. Patrick Juliano, Lt. Junelle Steward, Lt. Jason Wagner, Driver Engineers Katelyn Baller, Christopher Cottle, Brandon O’Hara, and Joshua Meeker, along with Firefighter Osvaldo Sene, were recognized with CPR Lifesaving Award Ribbons.
Lt. Guillermo Arnold and Lt. Leroy Fisher were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for their outstanding service, exemplary coordination and unwavering dedication to protecting the community during a severe vehicle crash with entrapment and fire, where their rapid response saved a life.
Finally, Matanzas High School junior Logan Pacarro received the Civilian Life Saving Award for his courageous efforts in helping to save a neighbor’s life during a house fire on Aug. 6.
Flagler County master deputy named finalist for Officer of the Year
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Kyle Gaddie was named a finalist for the 2024 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award presented by the Florida Sheriff’s Association, the FCSO announced.
Two Pinellas County deputies who were involved in a shoot-out with a burglary suspect won the award. The suspect critically injured a deputy sheriff, whose life was saved by another deputy.
Gaddie is with the Community Policing Division. He began his employment with
the FCSO in 2016 as a uniformed patrol deputy. He has earned numerous accolades and awards, including three lifesaving awards, multiple unit citations, deputy of the month and multiple certificates of accommodation. He is mentioned almost weekly in Crimemaps with various levels of recognition. Crimemaps is the FCSO’s version of CompStat, which is a performance management system that is used to reduce crime and achieve other police department goals.
Man’s threat to jump off overpass closes I-95, Palm Coast Parkway
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies shut down Palm Coast Parkway and I-95 in both directions early afternoon on Tuesday, Aug. 13, after receiving multiple calls reporting a man was standing on the outside of the overpass bridge threatening to jump, the FCSO reported.
The man on the bridge also called the FCSO stating he was going to jump off the overpass. Deputies rerouted traffic as multiple agencies responded, including the FCSO Crisis Negotiations Team, Palm Coast Fire Department and Florida Highway Patrol. The man said he didn’t want to speak to any female deputies. With assistance from the PCFD’s Ladder Truck he was eventually assisted from the overpass and into a lift. He was placed under a Baker Act and was transported for further medical evaluations.
“I hope he gets the help he needs,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “The quick response and combined efforts of FCSO deputies, Crisis Negotiators, the Communication Center and Fire Rescue saved a life today. I’m proud of the team effort.”
Dwight and Donna DuRant of Ormond Beach announce the engagement of their daughter, Emily Carter DuRant, to Robert Edward Mealey, son of Bob and Barbara Mealey of Boca Raton, Florida. The couple met in 2014 while attending the University of North Florida. A wedding ceremony
Sheriff Rick Staly and Master Deputy Kyle Gaddie
Newly promoted and recently hired Palm Coast firefighters with Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark (left) and Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill (right) at the Palm Coast Community Center. Courtesy photos
Nexus groundbreaking
prior to the groundbreaking, bulldozers and dump trucks full of dirt roared by. The groundbreaking ceremony was originally scheduled for a week earlier but was postponed because of heavy rains in the forecast caused by Hurricane Debby. The pre-construction work started a few days later.
The site for the 23,000-square-foot center is just north of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center on Commerce Parkway. It replaces the Bunnell Library Branch but will include many more services, including the Health and Human Services wing; a library lobby with high ceilings and a micromarket with prepackaged food items and drinks; and a state-of-theart conference center with a caterer’s kitchen. The conference center will hold 325 people and, among other functions, will serve as the county’s senior congregate meal site.
There will be a canopy outside the library entrance with tables where people can sit and read books.
Albanese said the name Nexus Center was AI-generated after descriptor words such as library, innovation, technology and community were typed in. Nexus is a connection or link. Center is a central point offering a coming together. The Nexus Center will be “many things for many people,” she said. Health and Human Services will have a separate entrance and will include a reception area, consultation rooms, offices and a 25-person meeting room.
The conference center can be divided by a movable wall allowing for two events to
occur at the same time. On the WNZF radio show, “Free For All Friday,” earlier this month, Albanese said that while the meeting room at the Main Library Branch in Palm Coast can serve only non-profits or government organizations, the conference center at the Nexus Center will be available to be rented out for “corporate retreats, job fairs, even weddings,” with the “prefunction lobby” serving as a gathering area.
The library itself will have an innovative lab, where coding clubs can meet, computer classes can be held and 3D printing can be done. There will be a podcast room that students can use to do a podcast for a class assignment. There will be a drive-thru window and a passport office. The youth services department, she said at the ceremony, will feature “a wall that curves like a wave on the beach.”
The adult area will have computers, seating and a view behind the building of “natural surroundings” and a planned site for an amphitheater.
“This is the right building at the right time in the right place for all of us in Flagler County,” said Jim Ulsamer, the Library Board of Trustees chairman.
Albanese secured over $5 million in state grants to fund the facility. The county is providing $9.4 million from its general fund and $500,000 from library impact fees.
Albanese said $1.1 million is coming out of the library’s $1.4 million of passport revenue.
Years ago, she said, when she asked the county commission for money, she was told to find it. “I found it (by starting) the passport program,” she said.
Albanese said the state
turned down grants for the project seven times since 2015, including one governor’s veto before an $800,000 Florida Division of Emergency Management disaster recovery grant was approved and in 2023 a $500,000 state library grant was approved. In late January of this year, the project was awarded a Florida Office of Commerce broadband grant of $4 million.
At that point, Albanese said, she finally felt the Nexus Center would come to fruition.
“We would not be here today without the work from Ms. Albanese writing up all the grants,” Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance said.
“The grants are a testament that this project is needed,” he said.
Architect Ruffin Rhodes said this has been one of the longest projects his firm of Rhodes + Brito has been involved with. “What has fueled us,” he said, “is Holly’s passion.”
Lon Neuman the operations manager for Ajax Building Corporations ended the ceremony by announcing to county and city of Bunnell
Cornelia Downing Manfre, Candidate
Mayor of Palm Coast.
officials and Friends of the Library members that it was time to “move some dirt.” Albanese used a special
shovel for the groundbreaking, one that was used 25 years ago for the groundbreaking for the Main Library Branch.
Officials toss shovelfuls of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Flagler County Nexus Center. Photos by Brent Woronoff
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Sierra Club endorses Seib, Clark
Dear Editor:
The Sierra Club announces its endorsements and full support for Jeffery Seib for Palm Coast City Council District 1, and for William Clark
for Flagler County Commission District 3. The Sierra Club salutes and supports Seib for his environmental platform of taking pride in bringing Palm Coast to a city that values and takes
Make yourself at home
pride in the natural environment and balancing population growth with the need for clean air, water and forests.
The Sierra Club salutes Clark for his stance to make environmental protection his
top priority. As a “full time” commissioner, the club will look forward to working with him on implementing good environmental decisions.
Sierra Club Florida is dedicated to ensuring a stronger and healthier Florida for all Floridians. Supporting environmental champions up and down the ballot is vital
Back to school: a trapdoor back to reality
‘Are you sure you want to go on this water slide?’ I asked. Really I was talking to myself.
After the first day of school this week, my 6-year-old son, Luke, dropped a piece of paper on my lap.
BRIAN
MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
“You’re supposed to read that,” he said. I looked at the paper, which contained information from the physical education department at his school.
I was indignant. I thought: I’m the parent! Why do I have homework?! Later, my wife, Hailey, filled out more forms for Luke and his 9-year-old sister, Kennedy. I was glad I
TRIBUTES
Ronald Bergeron
had kept my complaints to myself; otherwise, I might have been recruited to help, as punishment.
Kennedy and Luke bubbled with stories of every detail from the first day: where they stood in line, which classmates they knew in which classes. Hailey asked more and more questions, savoring every detail, making Kennedy and Luke feel like celebrities. In our family, they were celebrities — the most interesting people in the world.
Luke climbed on his mother’s lap and told her all about his cup of Jitter Juice, a Sprite-like drink his teacher had given each student to get the first-day jitters out.
“Did the juice work?” I asked.
“No,” Luke said, full of first-grade confidence. “I didn’t have the jitters.”
He explained in great detail how he had walked down the correct hallway, navigating past last year’s kindergarten classes with ease.
Meanwhile, our oldest daughter, Ellie, was less enthusiastic about her first day of high school.
to protecting Florida from extreme legislation and politicians that ignore the basic needs of Floridians.
STEVE WONDERLY Chair, Volusia-Flagler Sierra Club
Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
weekend, we had celebrated with a trip to a water park. Kennedy, to my surprise, wanted to go on the tallest, scariest slides, including one that begins with the victim stepping onto a plexiglass trap door. When a teenage safety employee pushes a red button, the trap door disappears, and you free fall for 15 feet or so as water blasts you in the eyeballs.
“Are you sure you want to go on this one?” I asked Kennedy, but really I was talking to myself.
She grinned and nodded, and so we waited in line.
Then she asked, “Are you writing about this in your column?”
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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EVENTS Submit local nonprofit or entertainment events here: observerlocalnews.com/ calendar.
Ronald Bergeron, 81, passed away on June 14, 2024 from a long illness. He was born in Waterbury, Ct, the son of Albert and Simone (Lefevbre) Bergeron. Ron leaves behind his cherished wife of 33yrs Carolyn(McCalmont) Bergeron. Ron and Carol moved to Palm Coast in 2005. They enjoyed being a part of the Parrothead Club and Moose Lodge. The were volunteered at Alzhiemer’s and cancer rallies. They also were avid line dancers which brought them much joy. He also leaves behind his daughter, Carole Gizzi and her husband Michael, his grandchildren Diana Delorenzo, Michele Lance and her husband Brian, Alicia Schrimpf and her husband Jeremy, Adriana Gizzi and Nicholas Gizzi. In addition, his great grandchildren Nelson Rivera Jr, Xavier Rivera, Jack Lance, Elliott Lance and
TRIBUTES
Nicholas J. Bereda, Jr.
November 18, 1940 - July 31, 2024
Nicholas J. Bereda, Jr. was born on November 18, 1940 in Norristown, Pennsylvania to Katherine Tassoni Bereda and Nicholas J. Bereda, Sr. and joined our Lord and Savior on July 31, 2024. At age 9, Nick needed emergency heart surgery, and a world-renowned heart surgeon was flown in from Germany to save his life. After the surgery, they said that he might live to the age of 25.
Nick first worked for the Pennsylvania Park Police in Valley Forge Park, and then took a job with the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, working his way up to the Director of Community Relations and Director of Crime Prevention.
Nick was instrumental in creating McGruffthe Crimefighting dog through the Pennsylvania Governor’s Justice Commission. For the youth Nick initiated the mini-bike rodeo with Devon Honda’s help in Tredyffrin Township for several summers in the 70s. One of his greatest gifts was helping those in need through the Valley Forge REACT, and mentoring thousands of children and teens.
In 1976, President Gerald Ford asked Nick to support a Fuel Economy Run by organizing a cross-country motorcycle run across America.
Nick gathered lawyers, doctors, and judges with their motorcycles and a motor home that rode through Texas into California. Honda gave Nick an automatic motorcycle to thank him for his advocacy. He was also part of the Blue Knights motorcycle club in Penn-
“It wasn’t too interesting, to be honest,” she said without a hint of a smile.
“We went over stuff about the school.” Then, she added, tragically, “Stuff I already knew.”
I told her I was planning to write about the first day of school, but I would try my best to fit it in.
June 14, 2024 VETERAN
The summer was officially over.
Days earlier, over the
YOUR TOWN
First Baptist Christian Academy holds ribbon cutting to reunify campus in Palm Coast
their care. It made a difference.
sylvania.
Nick retired to Palm Coast, Florida in 1997. When Nick left to retire, the words of many were that the “Godfather” is leaving town!! He was soon after hired by FEMA to oversee the cleanup and community outreach related to recovery from the 1998 fires in the region.
Nick’s main interest in Florida was his pontoon boat, with a boat in lift behind the house. He loved his membership with the Flagler Beach Yacht Club and numerous excursions and events. Nick was a gregarious people person who was loved by many. He was always ready to share stories and advice with those around him.
Nick is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan Bereda, his sons Todd and Mark Bereda, his stepson Ken Bole, stepdaughter Barbara Bole, and 7 grandchildren.
The First Baptist Christian Academy held a ribbon cutting on Monday, Aug. 12, for its renovated facility on 1 Pine Lakes Parkway, combining two properties to reunify the school and create one 23acre campus for First Baptist Church of Palm Coast and First Baptist Christian Academy at the northwest corner of Pine Lakes and Palm Coast parkways.
First Baptist Christian Academy opened on the campus of the First Baptist Church of Palm Coast in August 2008 as a pre-school, FBCPA Lead Pastor Kevin Lautar told guests at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“The first year, we enrolled 13 children in our preschool program. Over the successive years, we added higher grades as students progressed and as our enrollment grew,” he said.
In 2014, enrollment surpassed 200 students from 2 years old through 11th grade.
The trap door opened, and down the chute I went, beginning another 180 days of not enough sleep, stressing about my children’s stress, and mundane moments I hope to never forget.
The school outgrew the church facilities. It relocated to the historic Flagler County courthouse in Bunnell in August 2015. In 2019, with continued expansion, the preschool moved back to the church campus.
In July 2022, the church and school began the process of expanding classroom space, Lautar said. They added a second story to the church’s education building for a new high school — ninththrough 12th-graders moved into the new addition in October 2023 — and they bought the property at 1 Pine Lakes Parkway. The newly renovated facility will serve elementary and middle school students.
“As school year 2024-2025 begins, FBCA has enrolled over 600 students in infant to 12th grade classes and currently has the room to grow to over 750 students in the next few years fully utilizing our new combined campus,” Lautar said. “We continue to look forward and dream about the great things that God has in store for FBCA.”
DOH-Flagler offering free quit tobacco group sessions
The Florida Department of Health-Flagler County is hosting a series of four free quit tobacco group sessions on Wednesdays from Aug. 21 through Sept. 11 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at DOH-Flagler, 301 Dr. Carter Blvd., Bunnell.
This series is for expecting and new mothers or anyone in the family that wants to quit tobacco. The sessions cover all forms of tobacco. There will be free diapers and wipes for all who attend. Children are welcome.
The sessions are a Tobacco Free Florida initiative. According to a DOH-Flagler press release, participating in sessions like these doubles the chances of successfully quitting tobacco. Register at https://bit. ly/3SJtyDs. For more information, call DOH-Flagler at 386-437-7350 or Northeast Florida Area Education Center at 904-482-0189.
LETTERS Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com. The editor may make changes for clarity and length.
Douglas D. Decker Branch: U.S. Navy
Service: 1944-1950 Rank/occupation: Lieutenant Junor Grade / Navy Fitness Officer
Hometown: Rochester, New York
Douglas Decker enlisted in the Navy as an Apprentice Seaman and was selected for the Navy’s V-12 College Training Program, which was designed to supplement the force of commissioned officers during World War II. After graduation from the University of Rochester, New York, he received a mechanical engineering degree and was assigned to the U.S.S. Saipan aircraft carrier upon which he was placed in charge of sailor health and fitness on the high seas.
After honorably serving his country during war time, he was awarded the American Theater Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Decker returned to Rochester and worked for Taylor Instrument Companies, which was well known for specializing in medical thermometers. Later he went to work for a Rochester Valve and Fitting Company, which he eventually purchased from his boss and owner. Decker held that company for decades until he sold it to his son. Decker moved to Palm Coast more than 20 years ago and spent 15 years as a volunteer at AdventHealth Hospital. He recently celebrated his 97th birthday. Decker attends the Hammock Community Church and shares his time with his girlfriend Margo. NEED HELP WITH VETERAN SERVICES? For information about benefits and support organizations for veterans, call 386-313-4014.
Eleanor Schrimpf. The family would like to recognize Market Street Memory Care and Vitas for
Lead Pastor Kevin Lautar speaks at the ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo by Sandro de Carvalho
YOUR NEIGHBORS
‘Great start’
Flagler Schools welcomes students back
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Late in the evening on Monday, Aug. 12, Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore was asked to pick out a highlight from the first day of school.
That was not easy, she said. Moore’s day began around 5:15 a.m. to greet the first bus driver pulling out of transportation to pick up students.
She greeted students arriving on campus and helped direct the car line at Buddy Taylor Middle School. She assisted Flagler Palm Coast High School students trying to find their first period class. Before the day was over, Moore visited all nine district schools plus the county’s charter school — Imagine School at Town Center. She also encouraged students in the Rise Up program in individual conversations and visited with iFlagler Virtual School administrators.
“My greatest highlight,” she said, “was going to each school, seeing so many of the students eager and happy to return and seeing their families as well as our faculty and staff. It is an exciting day because we get to see our students coming back.”
Angela Coates, an information systems support specialist, was helping students with their schedules at Matanzas High School and said they all appeared to be happy to be back.
“They come in with all smiles, even if they don’t have the schedule they wanted,” Coates said.
There were barely any glitches on Day 1 of the 2024-25 school year, Moore said. The last student of the day arrived back home around 6 p.m., she said.
“That was a little bit later for the first day, but not too bad,” she said. “It’s typical for delays on the first day with students learning what bus to ride and where their stop is. As stu-
dents ride the bus, those delays will reduce each day.”
Moore did not just observe during her tour of schools with Assistant Superintendent Angela O’Brien and School Board Chair Will Furry and other district professionals at various stops. She also assisted in the cafeteria, she walked students to their classes. She even got on the bus radio to help dispatchers. One bus driver posted a “big shoutout” to Moore on the Facebook group, “Fla-
gler Schools Parents.”
“I’ve been driving for Flagler Schools for 3 years now and I don’t remember a time when the Superintendent rolled their sleeves up and came to transportation to help facilitate dispatching and trouble shooting issues,” the driver said in her post.
Moore said at each of her stops she tries to provide a helping hand.
“There is no sense in just sitting and watching,” she said. “For us, it’s about helping the schools support the students. It’s an opportunity to walk a student to class, to encourage students to make good choices as we did in Rise Up, making sure they stick to the plan. In the elementary schools, we open a milk carton, tie a shoe, whatever it is they need.”
Moore said students and staff adjusted to new security measures in accordance to House Bill 1473. All of the school gates must be locked or manned and the same for all exterior and interior doors. Classroom doors must all remain locked.
Perhaps the most fun part of the day, Moore said, was freshman orientation at Flagler Palm Coast and Matanzas high schools where the ninth graders learned what it means to be a Bulldog or a Pirate. Matanzas calls its assembly in the gym, “Freshman Frenzy.”
“It’s structured but extremely fun,” Moore said. “The focus is on
camaraderie. They play games, facilitate a tour of the school, making sure they know where their classes are and what the expectations are in high school. The band plays, there’s face painting. It’s almost like a mini pep rally just for the freshmen. The upper classmen serve as ambassadors, leading the group in sharing information.”
The focus this year for “Flagler Forward,” Moore said, is making sure students and their parents know what career and accelerated programs beyond the core programs are offered so they can take advantage of the options.”
“This year we’re going to have a huge career day for both high schools offsite,” she said. “We’ll have fall career days for middle school students at both middle schools.”
The first day, Moore said, was “a
to the school year.”
“There is no sense in just sitting and watching. For us, it’s about helping the schools support the students.”
great start
District professionals and school administrators and faculty welcome back students at Buddy Taylor Middle School.
Flagler County School District professionals welcome back Old Kings Elementary School students with words and smiles.
Information support specialists Tammy Freeman and Angela Coates worked with schedules and enrollments at Matanzas High School on the first day of school.
Photo by Brent Woronoff
The first day of school at Wadsworth Elementary School.. Courtesy photos from Flagler Schools
FPC Principal Bobby Bossardet helps Sean Smith find his class.
LASHAKIA MOORE, Flagler Schools superintendent
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, AUG. 15
THIRD THURSDAY DOCENT TOUR
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Take part in this one-hour experience that includes select pieces from the Malcolm Fraser Permanent Collection, the John Wilton installation in the stairway gallery, a walk through the gardens to learn more about the military tributes and a tour of the historic Emmons Cottage. No advanced registration is required. Meet inside the museum’s reception gallery by 11 a.m. Tour admission is free to current members and veterans; all others should pay $2 per person.
ORMOND BEACH AREA
DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEETING
When: 7 p.m.
Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach Details: Join the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club for its August meeting. Check-in and socializing will begin at 6:30 p.m. Included on the agenda is the finalization of the Aug. 20 primary election activities, and a discussion on the Democratic ticket as well as activities and merchandise to be made available for the Nov. 5 election. Like-minded non-members are welcome to attend as guests. Visit ormondbeachdems.org.
VOLUSIA COUNTY WALK TO END
ALZHEIMER’S KICKOFF EVENT
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: The Blake at LPGA, 1635 N. Williamson Blvd., Daytona Beach Details: Get a glimpse at what this year’s walk will look like and a chance to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association, how to get involved and create your own team. The walk will take place on Nov. 9.
SATURDAY, AUG. 17
WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn to paint in watercolor with artist Bibi Gromling. All supplies are included in the $75 class fee and no drawing is required. Class is limited to six students. Beginners are welcome. Call 386-317-9400 to reserve your seat.
SUNDAY, AUG. 18
LOW-COST PET SHOT CLINIC
When: 9-11 a.m.
Where: Big Lots Plaza, 122 N. Nova Road, Ormond Beach
Details: Get your pet vaccinated at a lower cost. Rabies shots will cost $5 for 1-year vaccinations. Other shots offered include dog distemper/ parvo combo, dog flu, cat distemper combo, feline leukemia and more. Heartworm prevention and flea control products will be available for purchase. All vaccinations are administered by a licensed veterinarian. No appointment needed. Clinic is open to everyone. Proceeds benefit abused animals. Call or text 386748-8993 or visit spcavolusia.org
THE FIVE EXPRESSIONS ART SHOW OPENING RECEPTION
When: 1-3:30 p.m.
Where: Expressions Art Gallery on Colbert, 2298 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast
Details: Attend the opening of a new art show, featuring Jan Jackson, Ron Lace, Judi Wormeck, Mike Gleason and Maggie Corder. Enjoy refreshments and view their art. The show will be on display through Sept. 28.
TUESDAY, AUG. 20
FOOD TRUCK TUESDAY
When: 5-8 p.m.
Where: Central Park, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Food Truck Tuesday is back. Order appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts. Registration is not required. Presented in partnership with the Observer.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21
BRIDGE AND GAMES When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Flagler Woman’s Club, 1524 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach
Details: Play Bridge and other games with the Flagler Woman’s Club. Call Nancy at 386-986-8392 to reserve your spot, discuss learning Bridge, or bringing your game group.
FLAGLER TIGER BAY CLUB WINE
TASTING MEET AND GREET
When: 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast
Details: Join community leaders, club members and guests in this sixth anniversary celebration and enjoy live entertainment, wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets cost $40. Visit FlaglerTigerBayClub.com.
FRIDAY, AUG. 23
TURTLE TALK: A SEA TURTLE’S
JOURNEY
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach
Details: Participants will learn about the important role sea turtles play in “the real Florida” and how actions can help preserve this species. All ages welcome; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Entrance into the park costs $5 per vehicle.
RECIPES AND READS CULINARY
LAB: BASIC COOKING
When: 11 a.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond
Beach
Details: Learn all about substitutions in baking from library staff. Free program. Registration not required.
SATURDAY, AUG. 24
TALES WITH TAILS
When: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond
Beach
Details: This is an interactive reading program designed for children up to age 12. Children will practice basic reading aloud skills by pairing up with a specially trained volunteer dog. Reservations, for 15-minute reading sessions, are required. Books are provided, or children can bring their favorite story. Free.
PLANT LIKE A
FLORIDIAN WORKSHOP
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond
Beach Details: Environmental Specialist Holly Giles will teach attendees
about Florida native plants and how to safeguard local waterways. The workshop will include a live demonstration of arrangements of native, non-native and invasive plant species. There will also be a hands-on demonstration of how to make an effective bug repellent from the Florida native Beautyberry. This workshop is part of the “Walk, Talk, and Learn” event with the Pawpaw Chapter of the Native Plant Society and is open to the public. All ages are welcome. Reservations required. Contact Holly Giles at hgiles@volusia.org or 386-736-5927, ext. 12330, or search for Green Volusia events on Eventbrite.com.
BEACHSIDE GARAGE
OPEN HOUSE
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Birthplace of Speed Park, 21 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: The Motor Racing Heritage Association will host an open house at the Ormond Garage model at the Birthplace of Speed Park. The garage holds the two replica race cars that competed in the first sanctioned race on the beach in March of 1903. Free event.
RECIPES AND READS CULINARY
LAB: THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn about the history of “Florida foods” from library staff. Free program. Registration not required.
NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS
When: 5-8 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast United Methodist Church, 6500 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s Night of Champions will bring together coaches and student athletes across Flagler County for an evening of food, fellowship, inspiration and the gospel. RSVP by Monday, Aug. 19. Visit flaglerfca.org/ night-of-champions.
SUNDAY, AUG. 25
SUMMER CARNIVAL AND MARKET
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Sip N Surf Coffee, 701 N.
Ocean Shore Blvd., Flagler Beach
Details: Attend this free event at Sip N Surf Coffee, themed carnival. There will be games, prizes, local vendors, coffee and more. Presented by FB Real Estate Co.
ONGOING
ORMOND BEACH REGIONAL
LIBRARY TODDLER TIME
When: Aug. 15, 22 and 29
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach Street, Ormond Beach
Details: An interactive literacy program for children between 18 months and 3 years old. Children and caregivers are introduced to basic building blocks of literacy through stories, rhymes, and music. Programs may end with a brief STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math) activity.
BAM SENIOR FITNESS CLASS
When: 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays
Where: Palm Coast First Baptist Church, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast
Details: Join this Balance and Motion class and develop strength and endurance, core stability and balance. Taught by senior fitness specialist Artie G, the class is open to all fitness levels and free with most insurances. A donation is accepted for those without coverage. See full schedule at synergyseniorfitness. com or call 386-931-3485.
REGISTRATION FOR ART CLASSES, WORKSHOPS
When: Times vary, most classes and workshops begin in October. Where: Art League of Daytona Beach, 433 South Palmetto Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Register for fall classes and workshops at the Art League of Daytona Beach. Visit www.artleague.org or phone 386-947-7103. Workshops and classes vary in start time and duration.
Send events to Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas at Jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com
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REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
Grand Haven pool home is Flagler’s top sale
Ahouse at 55 Scarlet Oak Circle in Grand Haven was the top real estate transaction for Aug. 1-7 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The home sold on Aug. 7 for $830,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, heated spa and 2,458 square feet.
Cypress Knoll
The house at 7 Edgemont Place sold on Aug. 5 for $420,000. Built in 2008, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,104 square feet.
Indian Trails The house at 4 Birchwood Place sold on Aug. 2 for $430,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,208 square feet.
the condo is a 2/2, has 1,570 square feet.
The condo at 3580 S. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 105, sold on Aug. 1 for $162,500. Built in 1982, the condo is a 1/1 and has 658 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $129,000.
PALM COAST
Ocean Hammock
The house at 42 Oak View Circle W. sold on Aug. 6 for $775,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, heated spa and 2,958 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $478,500.
Seminole Woods
The house at 13 Sea Serpent Trail E. sold on Aug. 2 for $352,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 5/3 and has 2,277 square feet.
Grand Haven The house at 51 Shinnecock Drive sold on Aug. 1 for $449,900. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,946 square feet.
Lehigh Woods The house at 74 Edward Drive sold on Aug. 6 for $468,800. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,129 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $156,000.
The house at 29 Eastwood Drive sold on Aug. 6 for $449,999. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and has
a pool and 1,841 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $238,000.
Palm Harbor The house at 26 Cloverdale Court S. sold on Aug. 5 for $750,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,554 square feet.
The house at 22 Frontier Drive sold on Aug. 1 for $470,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,438 square feet.
Marineland Acres
The house at 3 Rollins Drive sold on Aug. 2 for $780,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,769 square feet.
Quail Hollow
The house at 75 Laguna Forest Trail sold on Aug. 6 for $435,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 1,886 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $256,100.
The house at 8 Kansas Path sold on Aug. 2 for $350,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,730 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $212,500.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
Ormond-by-the-Sea home sells for $629K
Ahouse at 35 Sand Dollar Drive in the Seabridge South subdivision was the top real estate transaction for Aug 1-7 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. The home sold on Aug. 2 for $629,000. Built in 1986, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, heated spa and 1,524 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $210,000.
GRANT MCMILLAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
The condo at 815 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 13A, sold on Aug. 2 for $477,000. Built in 1969, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,020 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $345,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Forest Hills
The house at 1201 Scottsdale Drive sold on Aug. 6 for $332,250. Built in 1960, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,828 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $90,100.
Sailors Row
The house at 14 Mainsail Circle sold on Aug. 6 for $365,000. Built in 1990, the house is a 3/2 and has a heated spa and 1,146 square feet. It last sold in 2008 for $160,000.
Plantation Pines
The house at 188 Conifer Lane sold on Aug. 2 for $370,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 4/2 and has one fireplace and 1,728 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for
$325,000.
Daytona Shores
The house at 802 N. Beach St. sold on Aug. 5 for $386,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 3/2 and has one fireplace and 1,900 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $190,000.
Plantation Bay
The house at 860 Pinewood Drive sold on Aug. 1 for $410,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,101 square feet.
The house at 1217 Sunningdale Drive sold on Aug. 1 for $408,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,185 square feet.
Ormond Terrace
The house at 214 Warwick Ave. sold on Aug. 5 for $434,900. Built in 1971, the house is a 4/2 and has one fireplace and 2,129 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $199,500.
Spring Meadows
The house at 58 Spring Meadows sold on Aug. 1 for $450,000. Built in 1999, the
house is a 4/3 and has 2,552 square feet. It last sold in 2000 for $192,900.
Northbrook
The house at 1307 Overbrook Drive sold on Aug. 7 for $310,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has one fireplace and 1,747 square feet.
The Trails The house at 22 River Ridge Trail sold on Aug. 5 for $605,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, two fireplaces and 3,299 square feet.
Ortona Park
The house at 44 Jamestown Drive sold on Aug. 6 for $550,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 3/2 and has one fireplace, a pool and 2,068 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $275,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Imperial Heights The house at 114 Imperial Heights Drive sold on Aug. 7 for $447,000. Built in 1966, the house is a 4/2 and has one fireplace and 2,260 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $450,000.
Avalon by the Sea The house at 146 Via Madrid Drive sold on Aug. 1 for $411,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,122 square feet.
Oakview Heights The house at 19 Morning Star Drive sold on Aug. 5 for $400,000. Built in 1968, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,651 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $275,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
BUSINESS OBSERVER
Swillerbees Craft Donuts celebrates grand opening in Ormond Beach
The new store marks an expansion of the Swillerbees brand into Volusia County.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
In its first day of business in Ormond Beach on Monday, Aug. 12, Swillerbees Craft Donuts sold around 300 donuts — all before noon.
Palm Coast resident Dakota Wehde, who co-owns the doughnut bakery alongside his parents, Mike and Holly Wehde, said a line had formed outside by 5:40 a.m. Located at 200 E. Granada Blvd., the Swillerbees in Ormond Beach is the family’s third store. It also marks their expansion into the Volusia market.
“This community has such a unique feel, much like Flagler has its unique feel,” Dakota Wehde said. “Juts being here, you can really feel how close-knit this community is and we’re really excited to be a part of that.”
The Wehde family bought the Swillerbees store in Flagler Beach three years ago, opening a second location in Palm Coast last year. The family also owns the Waffle Cone ice cream shop in Flagler Beach. The storefront at 200 E. Granada
Blvd. in Ormond Beach had been vacant since Donnie’s Donuts closed in January to consolidate operations at its One Daytona location. The Wehdes were then approached by the building’s landlords, and the Swilllerbees Ormond Beach location was born.
The Wehdes have transformed the space, rebuilding and moving counters to make the seating area more spacious. In addition to new flooring, a children’s play area — featuring toy doughnuts — was added. Swillerbees in Ormond also features a drive-thru.
After opening the Palm Coast Swillerbees location last year, as well as a new Waffle Cone store in Jacksonville, Mike Wehde said he and his wife were going into “rest mode.” But, their son was inspired to keep
going.
“We just love what God’s doing through Dakota and through this new team, and watching the new team come together,” Mike Wehde said. “That’s a big part of what we do and what Dakota does well too, is bringing culture with teams. We’re not just serving dougnuts and breakfast sandwiches. We’re creating a great culture, where people feel loved, valued and known.”
That’s the Swillerbees motto.
“We really believe in loving our employees,” Holly Wehde said. “We love them first and then it trickles over onto the customers.”
Ormond Beach store manager Natalia Kurdziel first started working for the Wehdes five years ago at the Flagler Beach Waffle Cone. Opening the Ormond Beach Swillerbees store
feels surreal, she said.
“The other day, we were just in here making sure everything was prepared, and the last night, we were leaving and I was like, ‘Wow, I get to actually come in here and work tomorrow,’” Kurdziel said. “I get to meet who’s going to become our new regulars. I get to see how the new equipment works. It’s been really exciting.”
Dakota Wehde said they have felt the enthusiasm in the community for Swillerbees since taking part in Taste of Ormond in May.
“We can’t wait to also integrate ourselves more and more with the community and make them feel loved, valued and known,” he said. Swillerbees is open daily from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Daytona Beach International Airport adds Breeze Airways as new carrier
The airline will begin flying between Daytona Beach and Westchester County, New York, starting Nov. 14.
Three more routes will be added in February 2025.
SUZANNE MCCARTHY
Daytona Beach International Airport announced the addition of a new carrier — Breeze Airways, which
this winter, and I’m happy to tell you that Daytona Beach is in for a seriously nice Breeze,” said Brian McCormick, director of airport properties for Breeze Airways.
The airline’s four routes are estimated to have an economic impact of more than $21 million a year in the Daytona Beach region.
Breeze Airways was ranked in the top 5 of Travel + Leisure’s “Best Domestic Airlines” for the third year in a row, offering premium seating options and high-speed WiFi on its fleet of brand new 137 seat Airbus A220-300 aircraft.
“Our air service development
Swillerbees is offering a “Cookie Crumble” doughnut, filled with cookie dough, for the month of August.
Savannah Wehde, Dakota Wehde, Natalia Kurdziel, Holly and Mike Wehde. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Brian McCormick is presented with a cake from Daytona Beach International Airport officials after the Breeze Airways announcement. Photo by Suzanne McCarthy
Karen Feaster, Brian McCormick and Joanne Magley listen as County Manager George Recktenwald speaks at the announcement event. Photo by Suzanne McCarthy
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BIZ BUZZ
Health care industry is top employer in Flagler County
New data from Flagler County’s Economic Development Office and Florida Commerce confirm health care employment has become the No. 1 industry sector in Flagler County, surpassing accommodation and food services for the first time.
“Research from the Palm Coast Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce has consistently suggested our region focus on diversifying our economy by creating betterpaying health care jobs,” Greg Blosé, president and CEO of Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce said in a press release by the Chamber.
“With our public and private sector partners leading the way over the past three years, we have successfully grown the health care industry in Flagler County. This is a huge accomplishment and shows the power of our community when we work together.”
Denyse Bales-Chubb, president/CEO of the AdventHealth market in Flagler and St. Johns counties, said, “For over two decades, we’ve been dedicated to serving our community, and we are proud of our role in reaching this new milestone of health care becoming the largest job creator in Flagler County.
“A year ago, we opened the county’s second hospital, marking a $167 million investment in our growing community’s infrastructure. This second hospital answered a great need in our community because as our community has grown, so has the need for additional health care services. In addition, our two hospitals had significant increases in patients seeking care last year, which led us to hire more team members and physicians, with even more on the way.”
According to the Bureau of Workforce Statistics and Economic Research, the top three employment industry sectors in Flagler County are:
1. Health care and social services — 4,396
2. Accommodation and food services — 4,304
3. Retail trade – 4,297 Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin said the growth of the health care industry is not just about the numbers.
“It’s about enhancing the quality of life for our residents and creating viable, well-paying jobs,” Alfin said. “As we continue to grow and diversify our economy, Palm Coast has emerged as a regional destination for health care training and technology, further positioning our community at the forefront of innovation and excellence.”
Community Foundation, United Way adds board members
The Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties have announced new additions to their board of directors.
“We are thrilled to welcome new members to our Board of Directors,” said Courtney Edgcomb, president and CEO of Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties. “Their diverse experiences and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts and drive meaning-
ful progress. Together, we will continue to innovate and create positive change for our organization and the community we serve.”
Joining the board are:
Michelle Alvarez, a CPA who has worked at Brown & Brown Insurance since 2017 and is currently the finance and operations leader. Passionate about financial literacy and stability, Alvarez looks forward to bringing insight into the Financial and IDEA+ committees
Ann Boughtin, president and owner of Ann Boughtin Consulting, has been involved with several different local United Ways over the years. Boughtin specializes in strategic planning and mental health, with particular interests surrounding behavioral health of those facing challenges living in poverty.
LaToya Carey started her career with 14 years in the banking industry, before founding Kenneth Grant Inzpirations. As co-owner, creative director, and chief experience & operations officer of KGI, Carey enjoys advocating for the underserved community.
Edward Dimayuga, an attorney at Legacy Law that provides estate planning, guardianship and special needs legal services. Dimayuga previously worked as the special projects pro bono coordinator for Legal Aid Society of Orange County Bar, taught Chinese to undergraduate students, and many other community opportunities.
Glysobel “Bella” Hernandez, branch VP of the Orange Coun-
ty VyStar Credit Union Branch, presents skills in risk management, customer service, banking, sales, and leadership. With interests in education, financial stability, and health, Hernandez aims to support community services to strengthen communities and reduce poverty.
Brian McMillan, publisher of the Palm Coast Observer and Ormond Beach Observer, has more than 12 years of experience as a journalist. With five children of his own, McMillan believes every child needs encouragement and looks forward to assisting the Brand Ambassadors, Corporate Engagement, and Donor Engagement Committees.
Doug Reece has 16 years of experience in the banking industry and currently holds the title of commercial lender at Intracoastal Bank. Doug is passionate about tackling substance use issues and how to successfully divert individuals to prevent recidivism.
“We are delighted to welcome our new board members. As an organization that values innovation and fundraising, these individuals exemplify the direction we are heading while also serving as thought leaders,” Board Chair Jan Miller said. “I can tell they are excited to start!”
Parkside Realty in Palm Coast adds broker associate
Parkside Realty — located at 145 City Place, Suite 104, Palm Coast — has announced the addition of Cliff Colby as a broker associate to its team. Colby brings over a decade of experience in Florida real estate.
Originally from Maine, Colby has also been a real estate instructor, owning and operating a real estate school.
“My work habits were forged early — growing up on a farm with milking cows and vegetable fields. I carry that work ethic with me,” he said in a press release.
Colby’s diverse background
includes earning a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, traveling the world and owning several small businesses. He also continues to play in a rock band.
“We are excited to welcome Cliff Colby to our team,” said Lauren McPherson, owner of Parkside. “His extensive experience, dedication and unique approach to real estate are sure to provide exceptional service to our clients.”
Inaugural Flagler County Expo highlights Black entrepreneurs
In celebration of National Black Business Month, The African American Entrepreneurs Association co-hosted the inaugural Flagler County Expo on Aug. 7 at the African American Cultural Society in Palm Coast.
AAEA founder and CEO Leslie Giscombe presented Jerusha Logan with the organization’s first Community Leader of the Year award.
“Her leadership and dedication inspire everyone,” Giscombe said.
The event shined a spotlight on local Black entrepreneurs and provided opportunities for networking, education and business growth. Local entrepreneurs, business leaders and public officials participated in the expo.
Attendees had the opportunity to connect with local Black-owned businesses, access educational resources and gain information critical to thriving in today’s competitive marketplace.
Connie Reid of Have Faith Designs said she is new to Palm Coast and the expo gave her a chance to network.
“Participating (in the event) was a pleasure,” she said.
“The information given by Mr. Giscombe was very informative regarding registering your business, attending lectures and getting help with writing a business plan. I look forward to participating in next year’s AAEA National Black Business Month Event.”
“We are thrilled to have cohosted this significant event during National Black Business Month,” Giscombe said “The Flagler County Expo is just the beginning of our efforts to uplift and empower Black entrepreneurs in our region. We look forward to continuing this momentum and fostering an environment where all businesses can succeed.”
Partnership leads Florida Eye Specialists to Palm Coast
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL,
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA
FLORIDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 7:00 P.M. on the 26th day of August 2024, for the purpose of Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 2024-15, before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Flagler County Government Services Building (GSB) located at 1769 East Moody Blvd, Bunnell, Florida 32110.
ORDINANCE 2024-15
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF BUNNELL LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENT TO SECTION 18-52 WETLANDS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENT TO VARIOUS SECTIONS WITHIN CHAPTER 34 – ZONING; PROVIDING FOR LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND APPLICABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell’s website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City’s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the proposed Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information this ordinance can be obtained at the office of the Bunnell Customer Service Office, 604 E. Moody Blvd. Unit 6, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting.
NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 7:00 PM on the 26th day of August 2024, for the purpose of Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 202412, before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Flagler County Government Services Building (GSB) located at 1769 East Moody Blvd, Bunnell, Florida 32110.
ORDINANCE 2024-12
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA PROVIDING FOR THE REZONING OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY TOTALING APPROXIMATELY 31,174± ACRES WITHIN THE CITY OF BUNNELL LIMITS AS DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT “B”; PROVIDING FOR THE TAKING OF IMPLEMENTING ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF MAPS BY REFERENCE; REPEALING ALL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR NON-CODIFICATION AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell’s website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City’s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the proposed Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information this ordinance can be obtained at the office of the Bunnell Customer Service Office, 604 E. Moody Blvd. Unit 6, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting.
NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes)
Florida Eye Specialists and Atlantic Eye Center, a Palm Coast practice founded by Dr. Alexandra Kostick in 1996, are now working together to improve access to specialty eye care in the Volusia and Flagler areas. With this partnership, Atlantic Eye Center joins the Florida Eye Specialists network, including nearby Ormond Beach clinic International Eye Associates. Atlantic Eye Center’s team includes ophthalmologists Kenzo J. Koike and Joanne Francis, a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist specializing in cataract and cornea surgery, along with optometrist Christine L. Burke. Together, they offer a comprehensive range of eye care services, including treatment for cataracts, cornea issues, dry eye, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and general ophthalmology.
As part of this expansion, Florida Eye Specialists has added three state-of-the-art Light Delivery Devices to clinics in the area, including Palm Coast and St. Augustine. These cutting-edge devices are used for precise vision adjustments after cataract surgery with the Light Adjustable Lens.
INSERTION
PUBLIC MEETING
FLORIDA
FLORIDA
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA FOR THE
CONTRACTION (DEANNEXATION) OF THE CITY BOUNDARY BY DEANNEXING 5.0+/- ACRES MORE OR LESS OF REAL PROPERTY, GENERALLY LOCATED NORTH OF THE INTERSECTION BETWEEN COUNTY ROAD 304 AND OLD HAW CREEK ROAD, MORE PARTICULARLY AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED ON EXHIBIT A, ATTACHED HERETO AND FULLY INCORPORATED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE; PROVIDING FOR THE AMENDMENT OF CITY BOUNDARIES TO CONTRACT THE SUBJECT PROPERTIES FROM THE CITY BOUNDARIES; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF PRIOR INCONSISTENT ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS, SEVERABILITY, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell’s website at www.bunnellcity.us
Latoya Carey, Doug Reece, Brian McMillan, Bella Hernandez, Michelle Alvares and Edward Dimayuga. Courtesy photo
AAEA founder and CEO Leslie Giscombe and Jerusha Logan. Courtesy photo
Cliff Colby. Courtesy photo
Non Sequitur
Nancy
Mother Goose and Grimm
The Duplex
In the Bleachers
Cornered
Ziggy
The Fusco Brothers
SPORTS
‘Scariest thing of my life’
Flagler Palm Coast football player Grant Winkler is back after spending nine days in the hospital with aseptic meningitis.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Being forced to sit out the kickoff classic and the first game of the season will be like a walk in the park for Flagler Palm Coast football player Grant Winkler.
After all, less than three months ago, the senior defensive back/ receiver couldn’t even walk. Now, he is just grateful to be able to practice with his teammates again.
Winkler spent nine days in the hospital at the end of May with aseptic meningitis.
“It was probably the scariest thing of my life,” he said. “I basically was out of it. I didn’t even know my own name for about six days. In about two, three more days of time I would have had permanent brain damage.”
Winkler lost about 30 pounds. By day 6, he was so sick throwing up, he couldn’t eat anything, his father, Jason Winkler said. He had double vision and could barely see, Grant Winkler said.
“I couldn’t walk straight for about the first week, week and a half, out of the hospital,” he said.
But by the third week after he returned home, he got back on the football field. Since then he has gained back most of the weight he lost and feels that he is almost fully recovered.
“The first week, I wanted to get back to it immediately. My mom was like, ‘You can’t push yourself.’ The doctors said probably nine to 10 weeks’ come-back time, and I was out running, trying my hardest at three weeks,” he said.
“After last football season, I started working out like crazy. I went from about 138 pounds to 162 pounds. And in a week it was just completely wiped, just a clean slate basically, and it was tough,” Winkler said. “But I’m up to about 155, 156. So I’m getting it back faster because of muscle memory. I’m eating like crazy, lifting like crazy. I haven’t missed a workout since about week 3 of being out of the hospital. I mean, I haven’t missed a day.”
SERVING A SUSPENSION
Winkler will miss the Oct. 16 kickoff classic at home against Deltona and the Bulldogs’ season opener Aug. 30 at Lake Howell because of a sus-
“I’m eating like crazy, lifting like crazy. I haven’t missed a workout since about week 3 of being out of the hospital. I mean, I haven’t missed a day.”
GRANT WINKLER
pension stemming from an end-ofthe game altercation in FPC’s final lacrosse game last season against Matanzas.
Because of a cancellation, FPC’s football team will have a bye in Week 1, so Winkler won’t be eligible to return until Sept. 6 in a home game against Mainland.
“We’re excited for him,” FPC coach Daniel Fish said. “We obviously expected it to be a little bit longer recovery than it was, but he’s back pretty much to 100%. He’s a tough kid. He had to fight through a lot. I got to go see him that last day in the hospital where he was up and moving and was able to talk and stuff, but he looked rough even that day. I couldn’t imagine what his mom and his dad were going through and the pain he was going through.”
Winkler, who is probably the fastest player on the team, Fish said, started at the end of last season at free safety. Early in the season he was getting a lot of reps at receiver.
“He was a contributor. I think he’ll have more of an impact this year,” Fish said. “He’s going to probably get more defensive reps than offensive reps. He switches between corner and free safety, and then on offense he plays slot receiver and outside receiver. He adds depth on both sides. He’s a fast kid. We can put the ball in his hands, and then we can get him to cover a fast guy for us. He’s a good little weapon to have.”
Winkler played four sports last year for the Bulldogs — football in the fall, soccer in the winter and lacrosse and track in the spring.
Not being able to participate for three weeks after he was discharged from the hospital was not easy for a kid who shuns inactivity.
“It keeps me busy, that’s for sure,” he said of playing four sports. “I can’t go a week without sports, man. That’s what I live for. I love sports. I’ve got to always have something to do.”
He ran the 100 and 200 meters with personal records of 11.56 and 23.58 seconds, respectively, last season. He said track coach Dave Halliday helped him improve his speed.
“It’s fun being fast,” he said. “You catch a whole lot of jet sweeps and
whatnot, turn up the field and hopefully score a touchdown every play. That would be awesome.”
‘HE HAD THE DEATH STARE’ Winkler’s parents weren’t home when he started getting sick last May. It started with an upper respiratory infection and got progressively worse.
By the time his parents got back he was having intense headaches. He was airlifted to AdventHealth Orlando on May 21 and was placed into pediatric cardiac intensive care.
“He was progressively getting worse and worse each day with cognitive function,” Jason Winkler said. “By day 6, he had the death stare. It was super scary as a parent.”
Jason Winkler said they gave Grant
steroids that day and he began eating and drinking again. He was discharged three days later on May 29.
“It took a while for him to get back to his old energetic, humorous self,” Jason Winkler said. “He’s the comedian of the family. But he was just exhausted. He still had symptoms with double vision in his right eye. Slowly, over the next six weeks, he worked on his nutrition. He’s regained most of that weight loss.”
“My mindset was in the gutter for about two weeks after (discharge),” Winkler said. “And then I started getting back to football, and my energy started rising again. It was definitely very rough, but I got back to it.” Winkler is looking forward to the kickoff classic and the season opener, despite not being able to contribute in those games.
“The first two weeks I’ll be on the sideline cheering my ’Dogs on,” he said. “Hopefully they can get the W’s. I think they will. The team is definitely coming together.”
FPC senior Grant Winkler is back to nearly 100% and has gained back most of the 30 pounds he lost during a nine-day hospital stay in late May. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Grant Winkler (14) runs after making a catch in FPC’s 2023 spring green and white scrimmage.
Former FPC assistant soccer coach Bella Guiliano and head football coach Daniel Fish visited Grant Winkler on his final day in the hospital. Courtesy photo
Gilyard named to UC Hall of Fame
Flagler Palm Coast alum
Mardy Gilyard will be inducted into the University of Cincinnati’s Athletics Hall of fame. Gilyard is one of eight members of the 2024 class. Gilyard helped lead Cincinnati to back-to-back Big East football championships in 2008 and 2009. He was the conference’s Special Teams Player of the Year both of the years and was a first team AllAmerican receiver and kick returner.
He finished ninth in Heisman Trophy voting in 2009 when he led the Bearcats to an undefeated regular season on the way to the Sugar Bowl. He went on to play for the Rams, Eagles and Jets in the NFL.
Matanzas golfers receive new clubs
The Matanzas boys and girls golf teams got a treat a week before their first match.
The two teams received a total of over $8,000 in golf equipment to use in the upcoming season.
Drive Fore the Future Foundation donated eight sets of Callaway golf clubs and bags to the teams plus 50 team polos, golf balls, tees and T-shirts.
The boys team received four sets
of men’s right-handed clubs and one set of men’s left-handed clubs.
The girls team received three seets of women’s right-handed clubs.
The boys team, with new head coach Ethan Buchanan, begins the
on Aug. 20
Running for a good cause
Palm Coast resident Victoria Rodriguez never ran in a marathon before.
She plans to run in the New York City Marathon on Nov. 3 in honor of her mother, Linda, who celebrated her fifth anniversary on March 13 of receiving a heart transplant.
Rodriguez is running as part of Team Heart and Stroke for the American Heart Association. There were 120 applicants for a spot on the team, Rodriguez said, and she was one of 45 who were selected.
As part of the team she has committed to raise $5,000 for the the AHA. So far she has raised $3,736.
Her deadline is Oct. 22.
“My mom is a huge important part of my life and has been a Palm Coast resident for over 20 years now,”
Rodriguez said.
Five years ago, Rodriguez thought she lost Linda. Now, every day is a blessing, Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez has been training since March. Her goal is to finish the 26.2 miles in just over six hours.
While she is training for a marathon, she is in a sprint to be able to finish her fund-raising commitment for a cause that is very dear to her.
“It was truly amazing to watch my mom heal and have a second chance at life,” Rodriguez said.
To help Rodriguez reach her goal, go to https://bit.ly/4fGtJcn.
By Luis Campos
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SOMEHOW YOU’LL MANAGE by Sam Koperwas and Jeff Chen, edited by Jeff Chen
season
against Seabreeze at Palm Harbor Golf Club. The girls open on Aug. 27 against Flagler Palm Coast.
The Matanzas boys and girls golf teams with their new Callaway golf clubs donated by Drive Fore The Future. Courtesy photos
Mardy Gilyard
Victoria Rodriguez with her mother, Linda Rodriguez, who celebrated her fifth anniversary of her heart transplant earlier this year.
FLAGLER COUNTY LEGAL
48 IN RE: ESTATE OF DAWN ROSARIO WILLIAMS, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of Dawn Rosario Williams, deceased, whose date of death was June 8, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E Moody Blvd, Bldg 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is August 15, 2024.
Personal Representative: Troy Williams
c/o: Bennett Jacobs & Adams, P.A Post Office Box 3300 Tampa, Florida 33601
Attorney for Personal Representative: Linda Muralt, Esquire Florida Bar No.: 0031129 Bennett Jacobs & Adams, P.A. Post Office Box 3300 Tampa, Florida 33601 Telephone: (813) 272-1400 Facsimile: (866) 844-4703
E-mail: LMuralt@bja-law.com
August 15, 22, 2024 24-00198G
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE OF SALE
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2023 CA 000977
CITIZENS BANK NA F/K/A RBS
CITIZENS NA, Plaintiff, vs. MARTHA CAROLINA KEW; BRIAN S. KEW; ALEXANDER BELL; JEANEEN M. BELL; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; CITY OF PALM COAST, FLORIDA, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the order of Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated July 26, 2024, and entered in Case No. 2023 CA 000977 of the Circuit Court of the 7TH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein CITIZENS BANK NA f/k/a RBS CITIZENS NA, is Plaintiff and Martha Carolina Kew; Brian S. Kew; Alexander Bell; Jeaneen M. Bell; United States of America On Behalf of The Secretary Of Housing And Urban Development; City of Palm Coast, Florida, are Defendants, the Office of the Clerk, Flagler County Clerk of the Court will sell via online auction at https://flagler. realforeclose.com at 11:00 a.m. on the 11th day of October, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 31, BLOCK 90, PALM COAST, MAP OF BELLE TERRE, SECTION 35, ACCORDING TO PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 11, PAGES 2 THROUGH 26, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 15 Buffalo Bill Drive, Palm Coast, Florida 32137 and all fixtures and personal property located therein or thereon, which are included as security in Plaintiff’s mortgage.
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus funds from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. Dated: 8/12/2024 McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC By: /s/ Craig Stein Craig Stein, Esq. Fl Bar No. 0120464
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC
3222 Commerce Place, Suite A West Palm Beach, Florida, 33407
Telephone: (561) 713-1400
Email: FLpleadings@mwc-law.com
File No: 23-400308 August 15, 22, 2024 24-00199G
NOTICE OF SALE
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022 CA 000379 U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-KS8, Plaintiff, vs. SCOTT JEFFERY BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT JEFFREY BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT J. BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT BROTHERS; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF SCOTT JEFFERY BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT JEFFREY BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT J. BROTHERS A/K/A SCOTT BROTHERS; KIP WILFRED BROTHERS; BARCLAYS BANK DELAWARE; COOK’S HEAT AND AIR CONDITIONING INC, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the order of Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 7, 2024, and entered in Case No. 2022 CA 000379 of the Circuit Court of the 7TH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, as successor-ininterest to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Residential Asset Securities Corporation, Home Equity Mortgage Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-KS8, is Plaintiff and Scott Jeffery Brothers a/k/a Scott Jeffrey Brothers a/k/a Scott J. Brothers a/k/a Scott Brothers; Unknown Spouse of Scott Jeffery Brothers a/k/a Scott Jeffrey Brothers a/k/a Scott J. Brothers a/k/a Scott Brothers; Kip Wilfred Brothers; Barclays Bank Delaware; Cook’s Heat and Air Conditioning Inc, are Defendants, the Office of the Clerk, Flagler County Clerk of the Court will sell via online auction at https://flagler.realforeclose.com at 11:00 a.m. on the 11th day of October, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 5, BLOCK 49, DAYTONA NORTH, ACCORDING TO PLAT RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 10, PAGES 1 THROUGH 15, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. ALSO DESCRIBED AS: LOT 5, BLOCK 49, DAYTONA
ITS MEETING OF SEP TEMBER 4, 2024 The Flagler County Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 5:01 p.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Commission Chambers of the Government Services Building located at 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Bunnell, FL 32110. The purpose of the hearing is for the Board of County Commissioners to consider authorizing a non-ad valorem assessment within the Dunes CDD Stormwater Assessment District, beginning in 2025 and continuing annually thereafter, to fund the use and maintenance of stormwater discharge systems of the Hammock Dunes Community Development District. The assessment will be placed on the annual property tax bill of properties within the Assessment District containing a residential structure for which a certificate of occupancy has been issued. The assessment will be collected by the Flagler County Tax Collector. Properties subject to the assessment will be subject to a maximum annual assessment of $65.69.
This meeting is open to the public, and all affected property owners have the right to appear at the public hearing and the right to file written objections with the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners within 20 days of the publication of this notice. Written comments or objections should be sent to: Flagler County, Attn: Solid Waste Assessment, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Suite 301, Bunnell, FL 32110 or emailed to assessment@ flaglercounty.gov.
The Dunes CDD Stormwater Assessment District is bounded on the south by Jungle Hut Road, on the north by 16th Road, on the west by Oceanshore Boulevard, and on the east by Hammock Dunes Parkway. A geographic depiction of the properties subject to the assessment is shown below.
NORTH SUBDIVISION, A REPLAT OF PORTIONS OF SECTIONS 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 AND 21, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 29 EAST, AND A PORTION TO SECTION 40, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, AS SHOWN ON THE PLAT OF ST. JOHNS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY’S SUBDIVISION AND A SUBDIVISION OF PORTIONS OF SECTIONS 13 AND 24, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH RANGE 28 EAST, FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 10, PAGE 1 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. TOGETHER WITH ANY AND ALL INTEREST TO THAT CERTAIN MOBILE HOME DESCRIBED AS: MODEL: MERIT; MANUFACTURER: HOMES OF MERIT YEAR MANUFACTURED: 1991 IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: HML2F28483846968B/HML2F28483846968A TITLE NUMBER: 61269792/61264702 Property Address: 5781 Walnut Avenue, Bunnell, Florida 32110 and all fixtures and personal property located therein or thereon, which are included as
FIRST INSERTION
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE LEVY OF A NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT BY THE FLAGLER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AT ITS MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 4, 2024
The Flagler County Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 5:01 p.m., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Commission Chambers of the Government Services Building located at 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Bunnell, FL 32110. The purpose of the hearing is for the Board of County Commissioners to consider authorizing a non-ad valorem assessment beginning in 2025 and continuing thereafter annually for abatement of unsafe structures and nuisance properties within unincorporated Flagler County. The assessment will be placed on the annual property tax bill of properties within unincorporated Flagler County for which Flagler County has abated nuisance conditions or unsafe structures. The assessment will be collected by the Flagler County Tax Collector.
For the year 2025, the County Commission will consider levying an assessment of $9,745.39 on the property located at 5941 Ironwood Ave., Bunnell, FL 32110, Parcel ID No.: 13-12-28-1800-00500-0010, owned by Ms. La’Shona Sturdivant Lenise. This meeting is open to the public, and all affected property owners have the right to appear at the public hearing and the right to file written objections with the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners within 20 days of the publication of this notice. Written comments or objections should be sent to: Flagler County, Attn: Nuisance Abatement Assessment, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Suite 301, Bunnell, FL 32110 or emailed to assessment@flaglercounty.gov. The shaded areas in the geographic depiction below shows the properties subject to the assessment.
Aug. 15 24-00324F
INSERTION NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF AMENDMENT TO THE FLAGLER COUNTY LAND
