Rotary Club of Flagler County raises $1,500 to eradicate polio
On Oct. 24, the Rotary Club of Flagler County hosted a World Polio Day Watch Party at Pine Lakes Country Club. For more than 30 years, Rotary, the World Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have spearheaded efforts to completely eradicate polio by vaccinating children around the world. This year, there have been very few cases, but more money is needed for monitoring water sources and vaccinating children in remote areas. Rotary Club of Flagler County raised $1,500 for this purpose.
Palm Coast turns 25 years old
Since its incorporation in 1999, the city of Palm Coast has grown up. Now 25, a recent celebration included speeches, food trucks, cake. PAGE 3A
The local organization Seeking Insights for Solutions has announced a the Kindle release of its book, which was originally published in September.
The book, titled “Where Colors Meet: A Tapestry of Black and White,” is a collection of stories and reflections that delves into conversations about race, social justice and equality.
The SIS is a group of women if diverse races and backgrounds who formed the group in the aftermath of the 2020 death of George Floyd.
The Kindle version of the book launched on Oct. 24. Early reviews of the book praised it for “fostering healthy discussions on sensitive topics, highlight its ability to inspire thoughtful and respectful dialogue,” the press release said. Send your organization’s news to brent@observerlocal news. com.
Palm Coast Historical Society President Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky seems terrified by children wearing their Halloween costumes to Palm Coast’s 25th
which was held
26
spider. Photo by Brent Woronoff
The Seeking Insights for Solutions members with the Rotary Club of Bunnell. Courtesy photo
CITY WATCH
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Combined Veterans Day ceremony Flagler County, Bunnell and Palm Coast will host a blended Veterans Day Ceremony at the Flagler County Government Services building on Nov. 11. The ceremony will take place after the second annual Veterans Day Parade, which starts at 10 a.m., organized by Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon. The parade will begin at the Coquina City Hall in Bunnell and travel east on Moody Boulevard, ending at the Government Services Building where the traditional ceremony will begin, a county press release said.
Retired U.S. Naval Captain James Randall “Randy” Stapleford will be the grand marshal.
“This will be a truly wonderful day,” said Veterans Services Officer David Lydon. “On behalf of the Flagler County Veterans Advisory Council, we would like to welcome everyone to attend.” A picnic lunch for veterans and their families will immediately follow the ceremony. Hot Diggity Dog is providing 500 meals, which will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
New fire station will be city’s third busiest
Palm Coast broke ground on its first new fire station in nearly two decades, and it is already predicted to be the city’s third busiest station.
“When our citizens see this station, what they should think about is that the firefighters want to put them before us,” Palm Coast Fire Department Chief Kyle Berryhill said at the groundbreaking ceremony. “That’s what we’re about. That’s what we’re here to do, and we’re so grateful for their trust.”
The new station will be located at 72 Airport Commerce Center Way and dedicated to the Seminole Woods and Quail Hollow areas. The station will serve approximately 7,000 households and respond to almost 3,000 calls for service annually, according to a Palm Coast press release.
The Seminole Woods and Quail Hollow neighborhoods are currently served by PCFD Engine 29, which is housed at Flagler County Fire Rescue’s Fire Station 92 on Airport Road. Response times in those area range between 7-15 minutes; when the new station is operational, that will dramatically reduce to 6 minutes or less for over 90% of the area, the press release said.
“That’s more than just numbers,”
Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin said.
“It’s about ensuring that every family, every home, every individual in these neighborhoods, has the peace of mind knowing that help is always close by when it is needed most.”
Berryhill said the most important part of celebrating the new fire station is in celebrating Palm Coast’s citizens and the trust they have placed in the Palm Coast Fire Department.
“We are so grateful for their trust,” Berryhill said. “And it’s our duty to honor it.”
Palm Coast’s City Council, alongside members of the Fire Department and city staff broke ground on the construction at the Oct. 24 ceremony. The station will be built by construction firm Wharton & Schultz.
Fire Station 26 has been in the works for over two years, alongside the replacement Fire Station 22, which will be built at 350 Palm Coast
BY THE NUMBERS
$10.5 million cost to build the new fire station.
10,000 square feet in size, the new station will have living quarters for firefighters and a six-bay apparatus bay.
7,000 households in the Seminole Woods and Quail Hollow neighborhoods, which will be served by this station
3,000 calls for service annually come from the Seminole Woods and Quail Hollow areas.
12 months is how long the construction process is estimated to take.
Parkway NE, a third of a mile east of the current historic Fire Station 22, the city’s first fire station.
Fire Station 26 will be 10,000 square feet in size and include living quarters and will have a six-bay apparatus bay, the press release said. Once operational, it will be staffed by three full-time firefighters, providing Advanced Life Support medical care, and have the capacity to house two additional full-time firefighters from Flagler County Fire Rescue on an ALS transport unit.
It will cost almost $10.5 million to build and take around 12 months to complete, the press release said. The station is paid for by fire impact fees and a $5 million state appropriations, Alfin said.
The PCFD originated in 1973 as the Palm Coast Volunteer Fire Department, with just 36 members. Now, the PCFD handles over 13,000 calls per year.
Alfin said the new fire station will position the city and Fire Department to provide “the highest level of fire protection to our community.”
“Fire Station 26 is more than just a building,” he said. “It represents our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of this community.”
Palm Coast invites residents to celebrate Mobility Week
Palm Coast invites residents to join in for Mobility Week Trail Walk on Nov. 1 at the Lehigh Trailhead. The Trail Walk is part of a joint event organized by Palm Coast, Flagler County, the River to Sea Transportation Planning Organization and the Florida Department of Transportation. The event will be 3 miles long and begin at 4 p.m. at 1350 Belle Terre Parkway.
Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill. Courtesy of Palm Coast
Palm Coast celebrates like it’s 1999
The city held its 25th anniversary celebration with speeches, food trucks, bounce houses for the kids and, of course, cake.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
How did Palm Coast celebrate its silver anniversary? With cake. Quilts for community heroes. A living time capsule that will be displayed, not buried. A band with a repertoire that included some hits from the ’60s — a time before ITT Corporation even conceived of the massive development in Flagler County that would become Palm Coast.
The city held its 25th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Central Park at Town Center. The event also included a spacious kids zone with a variety of bounce houses and local food trucks for all ages. Two beer gardens were sponsored by the Flagler County Cultural Council. City staff sat at tables around the lake explaining city services and touching on Palm Coast’s history.
The city was actually incorporated on Dec. 31,1999, but a Founder’s Day event is typically held on the last Saturday of October, so this year the city decided to combine Founder’s Day with the 25th anniversary celebration, explained Palm Coast Historical Society President Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky.
“So we’re celebrating the early days of our founding from 1970, and then also the transition to becoming a city in 1999,” she said.
On a large stage with a backdrop mural of Flagler County, Mayor David Alfin traced the history of Palm Coast beginning when ITT mapped out 48,000 home sites in the 1970s.
“Today we mark a remarkable journey — 25 years of growth, progress and the creation of a unique, thriving city that over 100,000 of us now proudly call home,” he said.
Former City Council member
Cathy Heighter, the founder of Remembering Heroes, presented quilts to 12 community heroes: Michelle Bridges and Marty Feidler of the Disabled American Veterans Auxillary; Michele Gordon of I Just Want To Say Women’s Group; Lisa Byer, who received a caregiver’s award; Reichard-Ellavsky; Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Detective Kathryn Gordon; Palm Coast firefighter Kalin Kelly; Peggy Hengeveld, president of Flagler County Chapter of the Military Officer Association of America; Trish Giaccone, chief executive officer of the Family Life Center; Ophelia Beier, of the American Legion; Erica Flores, founder of Vincent’s Clubhouse; and FCSO Chief David Williams.
Reichard-Ellavsky noted that Hurricane Floyd delayed the referendum for home rule 25 years ago.
But days later, on Sept. 14, 1999, the vote took place with more than 60% of the 12,000 voters who casted ballots voting yes. A final mayor and City Council election was held two months later.
“Palm Coast is not just a city,” Alfin said in concluding his speech. “It’s a home where safety, opportunity and respect thrive for all of us, now and for generations to come. Happy 25th Anniversary, Palm Coast!”
Alfin and other City Council members then unveiled the living time capsule. The glass-encased time capsule included a newspaper clipping about Palm Coast’s first City Council meeting; a campaign button for Jim Canfield, Palm Coast’s first mayor; photographs; a plastic flying disc celebrating the city’s first five years; and an ITT promotional pamphlet featuring Garfield the cat, Palm Coast’s mascot during the 1980s. The time capsule will be displayed at various city facilities, beginning at the Palm Coast Community Center.
Birthday cake was then served, and, to borrow a song lyric, residents partied like it’s 1999.
MAYOR ALFIN’S SPEECH
I believe that a city is not determined by its boundaries or by the asphalt on its roads and the lights on its
streets. Instead, it is determined by the hearts of the citizens who reside within.
On this 26th day of October 2024, we gather as one community, united in celebration. Today, we mark a remarkable journey—25 years of growth, progress, and the creation of a unique, thriving city that over 100,000 of us now proudly call home.
Palm Coast’s story began in the 1970s when ITT Corporation envisioned a planned community along a quiet stretch of I-95 at mile marker 91C. They mapped out 48,000 home sites across 68,000 acres, laying the foundation with paved roads, central water and sewer systems, fire protection, and drainage management that included 46 miles of freshwater canals and 23 miles of saltwater canals.
Our city’s rise continued. In 1979, we saw the construction of the iconic water tower. Boating, golf, and tennis began to define Palm Coast as a community of recreation and leisure.
By 1985, after enduring two devastating wildfires, Palm Coast needed a new symbol of hope. That’s when Garfield, the beloved cartoon cat, became our unexpected mascot, inviting people from across the country to “live the good life” here in Palm Coast.
In 1999 the community took a major leap forward when the citizens
voted to officially incorporate Palm Coast as a city. This was a pivotal moment, one intended to enhance the quality of life for everyone who chose to make this paradise their home.
With incorporation came our first elected leaders: a Mayor and City Council to guide policy, and a City Manager to carry out those directives.
Over the past 25 years, Palm Coast has continued to flourish. We’ve launched transformative projects like the Palm Coast Greenway, preserving environmentally sensitive lands along Linear Park and the St. Joe Walkway. We purchased Florida Water Services to ensure our utility and water systems could meet the needs of a growing population, and we acquired the Palm Coast Community Service Corporation to better manage our drainage infrastructure.
Safety has always been a priority. We’ve built new fire stations to ensure rapid emergency response, redeveloped the historic Palm Harbor Golf Course, and created a new Southern Recreation Center for pickleball and tennis enthusiasts.
We’ve expanded Holland Park, adding a splash pad for our youngest residents, and upgraded the Indian Trails Sports Complex, establishing Palm Coast as a premier destination for youth sports tournaments.
Palm Coast is now known as a regionally awarded, environmentally conscious city, recognized for our commitment to green building and sustainability initiatives. And, over the past 25 years, our community has become a rich tapestry of more than 100 culturally distinct nationalities. Diversity is our strength, and it’s a cornerstone of what makes our city so special.
I stand before you today filled with pride for how far we’ve come.
Palm Coast is not just a city—it’s a home where safety, opportunity, and respect thrive for all of us, now and for generations to come. Happy 25th Anniversary, Palm Coast!
Flagler Palm Coast JROTC cadets Maj. Jakari Hughes, Capt. Jasmine Vitkauskas, 2nd Lt. Atana Joya and Master Sgt. Elliott Echeverria, with Cathy Heighter and Mary King of Remembering Heroes
Marty Feidler and Michelle Bridges of the Disabled American Veterans Auxilary were honored by Remembering Heroes. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Daytona State College history students Sanai Figueiredo and Tanner Fraser (left) and Palm Coast Historical Society volunteers Mery Gable, Mary Hultay and Andrea Byrne with Historical Society President Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky (second from right). Figueiredo, a Flagler Palm Coast High School student, is dual-enrolled. She and Fraser are working with the Historical Society as part of a community project for the class, American History 1865-Present.
Rosa and Moises Hunt
Flagler Beach feels it’s being left out of county’s beach tax discussions
Flagler County Administrator Petito: ‘Flagler County does not have jurisdiction’ over coastal cities but will schedule a joint meeting.
SIERRA
WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The Flagler Beach City Commission wants to ask the Flagler County Commission to table an upcoming vote on a beach management funding proposal that only impacts unincorporated Flagler County land.
Commissioner Eric Cooley brought up the Flagler County Commission’s recent discussion on implementing a tax to the 11 miles of unincorporated Flagler County shoreline that will begin funding the county’s beach management plan. Cooley said that the county has once again held discussions on the beach management plan without inviting the other cities to the table.
“The county is having extensive meetings about the beach management plan that we were not invited to, even though we’ve sent communication that we wanted to have a joint meeting about this,”
Cooley said. Flagler County first explored implementing a countywide tiered tax to help pay for the county’s planned beach management plan over the summer. The idea met immediate pushback both from county residents and the elected officials of its municipality.
At its Oct. 21 meeting, the County Commission considered a much more focused version that only applies to the 11 miles of shoreline between the Marineland southern town limit and the Beverly Beach northern town limit. The proposal, which will be voted on at the county’s Nov. 4 meeting, will combine funding from the county’s Tourism Development Tax, a one-tenth mill of ad valorem revenue and the proposed additional tax for the residents in that 11-mile stretch, which will be based on a resident’s property value.
During the meeting, County Administrator Heidi Petito said the county is waiting to schedule and host a joint meeting with the county’s municipalities before discussing a beach maintenance plan for those areas of shoreline that are in Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach and Marineland’s jurisdictions.
“The reason why this does not include, right now, the city of Flagler Beach or the town of
Beverly Beach or the town of Marineland, is because Flagler County does not have jurisdiction over those municipalities,” Petito said. But, Petito said, the county has a responsibility to maintain the beaches in the unincorporated areas on the island, including in the six parks that fall under the county’s jurisdiction.
City Manager Dale Martin said he attended the Oct. 21 county meeting and said several of the county commissioners directed Petito to continue reaching out to the municipalities and schedule meetings.
He assured the Flagler Beach commissioners that the proposed tax does not apply to
Flagler Beach.
“It doesn’t affect us directly. It doesn’t affect city of Flagler Beach or the town of Beverly beach,” Martin said.
“My concern is they’re getting very deep into these conversations,” Cooley said. “And they’re also putting this item on before the seat changes.”
Two Flagler County commissioners will be ending their tenures on the board with the Nov. 4 meeting: Commissioners Donald O’Brien and David Sullivan. Sullivan, the District 3 representative, represents the east side of Flagler County, including Flagler Beach. District 3 candidate Kim Carney, a Flagler Beach resident, won in the primary election
in August. (She technically has a write-in opponent on the November ballot: Jose R. Rodriguez Fabiani.)
Cooley said that Flagler Beach officials need to be part of the conversation where beach management is concerned. A lot of the assumptions and concerns could be avoided, he said, if the county simply did not take “a siloed approach.”
Cooley also said he wanted to know if Flagler Beach would be receiving any of the county’s Tourism Development Committee’s tourism tax funds, considering Flagler Beach is a large portion of where those funds are accrued.
“We’re the reason that TDC money even exists,” he said. “So we get all the wear and tear from the tourism … and then that money goes to Hammock for a bunch of private owners that are backed up to the beach. But the tourism area doesn’t get any of the money.”
He asked his fellow commissioners what they thought about sending a letter to the county asking them to table the Nov. 4 vote on the proposal until after the newly elected county commissioners are sworn in.
Commissioner Jane Mealy said she understood his point but was hesitant to tell anoth-
er government how to run its meetings.
“I understand the reasoning, and I agree with it,” she said. “But should we tell another government how to run their meeting or what they discuss?”
“It would just be a request,” Cooley said. “They can do what they’ve done traditionally and just throw it in the trash.”
Comparatively, Cooley said, the county has been “very active” in the city’s discussions on annexing the 899acre development of Veranda Bay into Flagler Beach. Commissioner James Sherman agreed saying the county is “demanding we take their spine roads,” referring to the county’s request that Flagler Beach take over the maintenance of John Anderson Parkway within the development, should it be annexed.
The commission overall agreed.
Mayor Patti King said that the commission should especially say something if all the TDC tax funds are going to be funded into the proposed plan.
“I think we make the request if they choose to disregard our point of view that’s on them, but at least we can make our request known,” King said.
Email reactions to sierra@ observerlocalnews.com.
University Women of Flagler donates $2,000 for Take Stock in Children
On Friday, Oct. 25, three
members of the board of directors for University Women of Flagler gave a $2,000 check to the Flagler County Education Foundation to help support the Peter & Sue Freytag Take Stock in Children program.
Ed Foundation Executive Director Teresa Rizzo and Assistant Director of Student Services Selina Hernandez
accepted the check. Take Stock in Children is a state initiative that provides mentors, college services and scholarships to low-income students. Students in the program must maintain a 2.5 grade point average, have regular mentoring sessions, and show exemplary behavior to become “architects of their own success.”
Flagler Beach Commissioner Eric Cooley. Photo by Sierra Williams
The University Women of Flagler’s Trish LeNet, Linda Jaeger and Dr. Robin Hall present a check to the Flagler County Education Foundation’s Teresa Rizzo (center) and Selina Hernandez (right).
Courtesy photo
Former employee sues Flagler County
It is the second time in a year that a former county employee has filed a whistleblower lawsuit.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
For the second time in a year, a former Flagler County employee has filed a lawsuit against the county.
Former Flagler County Human Resources manager Samantha Whitfield left her job at the county in July, after five years of employment. On Oct. 8, she filed a civil court case against the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners regarding a hostile work environment.
Whitfield is seeking “all legally available, general and compensatory damages,” as well as attorney fees and costs. Whitfield is the second person in 2024 to file a lawsuit against the county because of alleged problems in the workplace.
In May, former Flagler County engineer Faith Alkhatib — once the face of the county’s work with emergency beach renourishment and the U.S. Army Corps beach renourishment project — filed a lawsuit against the county, alleging the county unjustly terminated her employment. Her complaint cites discrimination because of her Palestinian ethnicity and retaliation for multiple discrimination complaints.
Both Alkhatib and Whitfield are represented by the same attorney, Tallahassee attorney Marie Mattox with Mattox Law.
Whitfield’s complaint alleges that a campaign of bullying and harassment by
a fellow human resources employee began in March 2024, after she received a promotion, according to court documents.
The lawsuit only lists the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners as the defendants, but does name several individuals in the complaint itself, including County Administrator Heidi Petito, Benefits and Wellness Manager Anita Stoker, County Commissioner Andy Dance and Deputy Administrator Jorge Salinas.
Whitfield states in the lawsuit that Stoker, jealous of Whitfield’s promotion, began to harass and bully her, even sabotaging other offers of employment Whitfield received.
The complaint states that Stoker even used information about Whitfield’s personal life — a tense divorce and court cases involving her ex-husband — to harass her.
In July, Whitfield submitted her resignation “due to the unbearable hostility created by Stoker.” She was encouraged to stay by County Attorney Al Hadeed, who repeatedly assured her that an internal investigation would be conducted — only for no such investigation to take place, according to the lawsuit.
Despite the assurances and weeks after submitting her resignation, Petito accepted it — after “the County Commissioners informed Petitio that [Whitfield’s] situation was purportedly drawing too much attention and that action was needed,” the lawsuit states. The Flagler County Commissioners are only responsible for the hiring or firing of the county administrator and not general personnel.
ning two decades, Whitfield’s claims of harassment began in the spring of 2024 and quickly escalated in the months that follow. Both former employees filed their complaints as whistleblowers.
Both Alkhatib and Whitfield cite in their lawsuits that they filed multiple complaints with either human resources or with their superiors about the inappropriate behavior they experienced from fellow employees. But, according to the court documents, no action was taken by the county to curb the behavior, or even investigate the allegations.
Whitfield declined to comment on her lawsuit, and Flagler County Attorney Sean Moylan said in an email that outside attorney Pausha Taghdiri was handling the lawsuit on behalf of the county. As Whitfield’s suit was just filed on Oct. 8, the county’s attorney has yet to submit a response.
Alkhatib’s case is still in motion. On Aug. 16, Flagler County, represented by attorney Susan Erdelyi of Marks Gray Law Firm in Jacksonville, filed a motion to dismiss the complaint for “failure to state a cause of action,” claiming her allegations of retaliation are vague and fail to meet minimum protection requirements.
At the same time, the county also filed a motion to strike several sections of Alkhatib’s complaint, should the court decide not to dismiss them. The motion to strike claims the allegations are “immaterial, impertinent and scandalous” and “have no bearing on the claim asserted” by Alkhatib.
Over 50% of voters already voted
‘This
is the first time that early voting has surpassed mail ballot turnout in many years,’ said Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
More than half of Flagler County’s registered voters have already cast their ballots for the 2024 general election, just over one week into the early voting period.
Flagler County has 96,750 registered voters, according to the Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Office.
Of those, 19,197 voters have submitted ballots by mail and another 29,776 cast their ballots in person as of 10:30 a.m. Wednessday, Oct. 30.
Early voting for the Nov. 5 general election began on Oct. 21 and will continue daily through Nov. 2. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. residents can cast their ballots at any of the county’s five early voting locations.
Flagler Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart said this year early voting has already exceeded her expectations.
“This is the first time that early voting has surpassed mail ballot turnout in many years,” Lenhart said. “I’d have to go back through the years and look, but it’s been a long time.”
In comparison to 2020, the previous presidential election, a total of 28,537 residents voted during the entire Oct. 19-31 early voting period, while 31,881 submitted ballots by mail. Some 72,000 Flagler County residents voted that election — 78.5% of the county’s registered voters at
the time.
Over 50% of the county’s registered voters have already cast ballots for the 2024 election.
Lenhart said the Supervisor of Election’s Office had anticipated an increase in early voting turnout for the November election, with at least 30,000 people voting early.
“We’re quickly meeting that goal,” she said.
Only 29% of Flagler County’s voters voted in the Aug. 20 primary election. Lenhart has previously stated how important it is that residents participate in the voting process, especially the primary, as most local elections are decided in the primary election.
On the November ballot, not only will voters be deciding on the next president of the United States, but also several local representatives: the District 7 State senator, the District 19 State representative, and, for Palm Coast residents, three elected officials in Palm Coast.
Cornelia Downing Manfre and Mike Norris are both running for Palm Coast mayor. Ty Miller and Jeffery Seib are competing for the Palm Coast City Council District 1 seat while Ray Stevens and Andrew Werner are vying for the city’s District 3 seat.
These seats are elected citywide, though the city council candidates must reside in the district they are running for. The November ballot also has six constitutional amendments, including an amendment legalizing the recreational use of marijuana for adults over 21 (Constitutional Amendment Number 3) and an amendment on abortion rights (Constitutional Amendment Number 4). Also on the ballot is Palm Coast’s charter amendment. This amendment would remove a section of the charter that outlines a financial cap of $15 million on the city’s borrowing capacity, as well as the requirement for a loan greater than that amount to be approved by a public referendum vote.
Voters can go to flaglerelections.gov/ElectionInfo/2024-General-Election on the Elections Office’s website to learn about the candidates and amendments or read the Observer’s Election Guide online.
See our Election Guide
A long line on Oct. 28 at The Flagler County Public Library on Palm Coast Parkway during early voting. Photo by Gavin Baird
Palm Coast man charged with child abuse after placing stepson in chokehold
A Palm Coast man was arrested after he placed his stepson in chokehold for using a profane word.
Anthony Eugene Jackson, 39, has been charged with felony child abuse, according to his arrest report.
Flagler Sheriff’s Office deputies were called early in the morning on Oct. 28, after the stepson and his sister told their adult older brother about Jackson’s actions.
The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Oct. 27, when Jackson heard his stepson curse, according to statements from the boy and his sister. The two siblings were hanging out in the girl’s room when Jackson came in and began goading the stepson into a fight, the report said. Instead of fighting, the boy left for his own room, but said Jackson followed him and began to fight with him, placing him in a chokehold. The deputy interviewing the stepson noticed bruising and scabbed-over scraps around the boy’s neck.
The girl told deputies that when she heard the fight, she went into her brother’s room and tried to pull
COPS CORNER
OCT. 4
SEPTIC RUNOFF
2:17 p.m. — 200 block of East Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach
Criminal mischief. Police responded to a local shopping plaza after a septic truck was spotted dumping waste into one of the plaza’s drains. The property manager reported that this took place the day before, around 8:30-9:30 a.m., and that when the driver of the truck was confronted, he connected the septic line back to the truck and left. The property owner contracted a company to remove the waste left behind.
Jackson off him, injuring her wrist in the process. Eventually the two managed to separate the boy from Jackson and left the home, walking to their elder brother’s nearby residence, the report said.
The next morning, when the two told him what happened, the brother and his girlfriend decided to call law enforcement. The children’s mother, who lives with them and Jackson, told deputies that she did not see how the incident started and only saw her son’s injuries after the fact.
Deputies went to speak to Jackson when he returned home from work, but Jackson refused to make a statement, saying he “did not want to ‘self-incriminate.’” Jackson was then placed under arrest.
Man almost hits Flagler Sheriff’s Office deputy while fleeing traffic stop
A deputy directing traffic around a crash on Highway U.S. 1 and Plantation Bay Drive on Oct. 27, was almost hit by a driver who refused to pull over, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash had blocked northbound lanes and FCSO deputies were on site redirecting traffic. One deputy saw an open container of alcohol in the suspect’s
At the time of the report, the officer noted he could still smell the raw sewage. The property owner wished to press charges.
OCT. 8 BODY LANGUAGE
2:20 p.m. — 100 block of E. Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach Indecent exposure. A 51-year-old transient man told police his penis was his “freedom of expression” after he was arrested for exposing himself to a woman who refused to let him enter a dance studio.
The woman told police that the man tried to open her studio’s door — which was locked — and told her he wanted to dance, according to a police report. When she declined to let him enter, he walked away, only to return later at which point
vehicle and told him to pull over, according to a FCSO press release.
The suspect, Qwajon Laster, 27, refused and drove around the cars in front of him, almost hitting another deputy. Laster then fled south on U.S. 1 toward Volusia County, the press release said.
Laster pulled into the parking lot of the nearby Super 8 motel, crashing his pickup truck into a parked trailer before running into a nearby hotel room, the press release said.
An FCSO deputy Laster hiding under a blanket on the bed.
Laster is being charged with the following: reckless driving, attempting to elude law enforcement at high speed with wonton disregard, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, failure to obey police, resisting an officer without violence, tampering with physical evidence and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.
He is being held at the county jail on no bond.
Halifax Health reports 38 people admitted to the hospital during Biketoberfest
Halifax Health admitted 38 patients with traumatic injuries during the
he pressed his body against the studio’s window, smiling and waving at the woman. He then exposed himself and the woman called police. When officers arrived, the man, who has a previous conviction for indecent exposure, was still exposed. He was secured in handcuffs and informed he was being detained for indecent exposure. The man additionally told police he felt his penis “is an antenna to communicate.” He was taken to jail.
OCT. 22
RETAIL TO RESALE CRIME
1:38 p.m. — 5100 block of State Road 100 East, Palm Coast
Retail theft. Two Palm Coast men are facing felony retail theft charges after they were caught stealing almost $800 worth of merchandise
2024 Biketoberfest, which took place Oct. 17-20.
During this four-day period, Halifax Health, home to the only Level II Trauma Center in the area, treated 22 Biketoberfest-related trauma admissions, including 25 motorcycle crashes, according to a press release.
“Our team at Halifax Health is trained to provide the highest level of trauma care, and during events like Biketoberfest, we are reminded of how vital our services are to the community and visitors alike,” said Lindsay Duffy, director of Nursing for Emergency Services at Halifax Health. “Thanks to the dedication and expertise of our trauma and emergency team, we were able to deliver life-saving care to those who needed it most. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our entire trauma team for their extraordinary work during this high-pressure event.”
Of the 38 admissions, 25 of them were caused by motorcycle crashes, with 10 helmeted patients and no in-hospital deaths confirmed at this time.
Last year, Halifax Health reported a record number of 39 patients with trauma admitted during Biketoberfest. One person died last year.
from the same department store a month’s time.
Surveillance footage showed the two picking over 30 items from the health and beauty section and another 20 items from the sporting good section, the report said. This theft totaled $596. In late September, the two were recorded on surveillance footage stealing $198 of merchandise. Together, the thefts totaled $795, the report said. The two were placed under arrest. One suspect told the deputies that he stole the items so he could later sell them himself going door-to-door to make some extra money.
OCT. 26
POOL-SIDE PROBLEM
6:31 p.m. — 6200 block of North Ocean Shore Boulevard, Palm Coast
National Drug Take Back day results in 51 pounds of medication turned in to Flagler
Flagler County residents turned over 51 pounds of unneeded or expired medication for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 27th annual Prescription Drug Take Back day on Oct. 26.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office hosted four locations for dropping off medications to be safely destroyed. The goal of the event is to prevent prescription drug misuse and reduce the potential for accidental drug poisoning, a FCSO press release said.
“I want to thank the community for helping us to dispose of unwanted and expired prescriptions properly and safely,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “A special thanks to our partners, Publix and Walmart, and our deputies who assisted the community and staffed the drop-off locations.”
Residents are still able to dispose of unused medications yearround. The Flagler Beach Police Department has a year-round dropoff location, or residents can visit takebackday.dea.gov to find another drop-off location.
Battery. A 69-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested for battery after he attacked his neighbor for arguing with him over drinking a beer next to the pool.
That morning, the suspect was sitting poolside, drinking from a glass beer bottle, according to an arrest report. The neighbor, told him he wasn’t allowed to have a glass bottle by the pool. Later that day, the neighbor was sitting outside his front door when the suspect started insulting him.
When the neighbor got up to go inside his apartment, the suspect began bumping him with his chest, pushing him into a corner, the report said. The neighbor said that’s when the suspect charged at him, sending both to the ground with the suspect on top of him.
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U.S. Sen. Rick Scott visits Ormond, urges voters to vote
Scott made a campaign stop on Tuesday at Ormond Garage, advocating for citizens to vote Republican up and down the ballot.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott held a rally at Ormond Garage in Ormond Beach on Tuesday, Oct. 29, to encourage Republicans to vote in the upcoming election.
Scott, who is running for reelection against Democratic opponent and former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, touted a good statewide Republican voter turnout so far — in Volusia, over 78,000 Republican voters have cast their ballots compared to almost 50,000 Democrats, as of Tuesday mid-afternoon — and advocated for a party win on all elections.
“This is a team event,” Scott said. “So we need to make sure Donald Trump wins. We need to make sure every Republican wins across the state.” Scott’s campaign stop was attended by local officials, including Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington, Vice Mayor Harold Briley and Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood, and state representatives such as Rep. Tom Leek, Rep. Chase Tramont and Sen. Tom Wright.
Partington, who is running for Florida House District 28 as a Republican, said it was an honor and privilege to welcome Scott to the community.
“We’re going to have a record vote,” Partington said. “It’s going to be fantastic and we’ve got a week left to make it happen.”
The message to get out and vote continued among all the speakers, including Leek who said Scott, a former Florida governor, has stood by him in previous elections; he said it’s time to do the same.
“Now is the time for us to fight for all Republicans on the ballot,” Leek said. “And now is the time for us to fight to take back the White House and return it to Republican control.”
Chitwood also endorsed Scott, calling him a “friend to all public
safety and a friend to this community.”
“The man is better than his word,” the sheriff said. “Whenever anything happens in Volusia County, that 239 area code pops up and I know it’s our senator calling to check on my deputies who may have been injured, a police officer who may have been injured — some major crime may have occurred, a storm, and that’s not an act. That comes from the man’s heart.”
Scott called for change, citing inflation, open borders and employment as reasons.
“We know the world’s on fire, so this has got to change,” Scott said.
“It’s got to change for all of our families. We all love our families. We want our families to prosper. The only way we’re going to do it is by electing Republicans.”
In a press release Tuesday, Scott’s opponent Mucarsel-Powell noted that the Florida Senate race continues to be “a margin-of-error race,” and her campaign said Scott’s reelection would be “disastrous for Floridians.”
“For 14 years, Floridians have had to endure Rick Scott’s extremism and attacks on our freedoms and opportunities,” Mucarsel-Powell said in a press release. “It ends in just 7 days.”
STATE NEWS
TV stations can run ads supporting abortion amendment
Just a week before Election Day, a federal judge on Tuesday said he would extend a restraining order blocking state officials from taking action against TV stations running a controversial ad urging voters to support a ballot measure aimed at enshrining abortion rights in the Florida Constitution.
The Floridians Protecting Freedom political committee, which is sponsoring what appears as Amendment 4 on the November ballot, filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction after the state Department of Health sent threatening letters to broadcasters alleging the ad posed a public “health nuisance.”
The letters are among a number of steps Gov. Ron DeSantis and his administration have taken to try to prevent the proposed constitutional amendment from receiving the required 60 percent approval from voters to pass.
Florida Power & Light customers likely to face higher 2025 bills
Florida Power & Light customers likely will face increased monthly bills in 2025 after the utility Tuesday requested approval to collect nearly $1.2 billion to cover costs of restoring power after hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton and to replenish a storm reserve fund.
FPL wants to recover an estimated $1.179 billion over a 12-month period starting in January, with much of the cost stemming from Hurricane Milton, which made landfall Oct. 9 as a Category 3 storm in Sarasota County before crossing the state, according to a filing at the Florida Public Service Commission.
The filing said Milton affected electric service for 2 million FPL customers, and the utility used 20,000 workers from as far away as Canada to restore power.
Two internet-industry groups file challenge to Florida’s new social-media law
In a long-anticipated move, two internet-industry groups on Oct. 28 filed a constitutional challenge to a new Florida law aimed at keeping children off social-media platforms.
Tech giants said in a federal lawsuit that the law violates First Amendment rights and that parents should make decisions about children’s social-media use.
The law (HB 3) was a priority of House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, and became one of the biggest issues of the 2024 legislative session. Industry groups repeatedly signaled they would challenge the constitutionality of the law — with Renner and Attorney General Ashley Moody vowing to defend it.
The law, in part, seeks to prevent children under age 16 from opening social-media accounts on some platforms — though it would allow parents to give consent for 14- and 15-year-olds to have accounts.
Sen. Rick Scott speaks during a campaign stop at Ormond Garage on Tuesday, Oct. 29. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Paul Richardson holds a campaign sign for Rick Scott.
Florida Sen. Tom Wright speaks during a campaign stop for Rick Scott
Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Partington speaks
“We’re going to have a record vote. It’s going to be fantastic and we’ve got a week left to make it happen.”
BILL PARTINGTON, Ormond Beach Mayor
REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
Oceanfront home sells for $1.8M in Hammock Dunes
Ahome at 3765 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. in the Hammock Dunes neighborhood was the top real estate transaction between Oct. 12-18 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The home sold on Oct. 15, for $1.8 million. Built in 2005, the home is a 4/3 and has a private beach walkover, panoramic ocean views, two master suites and 3,923 square feet.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Condos
The condo at 19 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 701, sold on Oct. 15, for $1.3 million. Built in 2005, the condo is a 4/3 with a half-bath and has 3,283 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $1.5 million.
The condo at 19 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 205, sold on Oct. 15 for $1.1 million. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 with a half-bath and has 2,340 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $1.2 million.
The condo at 15 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 2101, sold on Oct. 15, for $880,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 3/3 with a half-bath and has 2,387 square feet. It last sold in 1999 for $420,000.
The condo at 900 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 823, sold on Oct. 18, for $670,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,344 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $585,000.
PALM COAST
Harbor Village Marina
The house at 214 Yacht Harbor Drive sold on Oct. 14, for $1.6 million. Built in 2015, the house is a 4/2 and has 4,848 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $2.2 million.
Palm Coast Plantation
The house at 112 Emerald Lake Drive sold on Oct. 16 for $1.25 million. Built in 2008, the house is a 4/3 with two half baths and has lake views, a boat dock and 5,138 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $1.1 million.
The house at 1 Emerald Lake Court sold on Oct. 17 for $1 million. Built in 2007, the house is a 4/4 with a half bath and has lake views and 4,805 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $525,000.
Granada Estates The house at 6 Roma Court sold on Oct. 18, for $1.2 million. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/3 and has 3,204 square feet.
Crosswinds
The house at 3265 Maverick Lane sold on Oct. 16,
for $695,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, pole barn and 1,857 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $200,000.
Grand Haven The house at 32 Eastlake Drive sold on Oct. 18, for $575,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2 and has a heated pool and 2,490 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $430,000.
Grand Landings
The house at 197 S. Coopers Hawk Way sold on Oct. 18, for $553,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 5/4 and has 2,913 square feet.
Forest Grove
The house at 26 Ferngate Lane sold on Oct. 13 for $545,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,050 square feet.
Palm Harbor
The house at 86 Farragut Drive sold on Oct. 18, for $460,500. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 with two half baths and has 2,788 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $370,000.
FLAGLER BEACH
Fuquay
The house at 1912 S. Palmetto Ave. sold on Oct. 18, for $560,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,106 square feet.
Rio Mar The house at 1509 N. Central Ave. sold on Oct. 18, for $545,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,666 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $352,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Ormond handyman loses truck during Milton, finds support in his community
Ed Budgen’s truck was an integral part of his job. Since Milton, he’s made due with the transportation he has: a pink Chevy Spark.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
During Hurricane Milton, Ormond Beach resident Ed Budgen and his wife heard the exact moment their neighbor’s live oak tree uprooted. Thinking it was lightning, they peered out the window, only to watch the tree fall on Budgen’s Chevy Silverado.
“‘There goes my truck’ — those were my exact words,” Budgen said. As a handyman, and owner of his own company, Budgen & Sons, his truck played a big role in his livelihood. But since
the hurricane, he has made due with the transportation he still has: his wife’s dark pink Chevy Spark. He can’t fit a ladder on it, but he’s picking up as many jobs as he’s able to do.
“I call it a go-kart,” Budgen said of his wife’s car.
Budgen founded his business in February 2021. His family’s roots in the community, however, date back
Breakaway Trails home is Ormond’s top sale
Ahouse at 11 Spanish Pine Way in the Breakaway Trails subdivision was the top real estate transaction for Oct. 12-18 in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea. The house sold on Oct. 18, for $800,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/3.5 and has 2,964 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $462,500.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 2100 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 3010, sold on Oct. 18, for $375,000. Built in 1973, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,087 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $420,000.
The condo at 3170 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 2030, sold on Oct. 15, for $395,000. Built in 1994, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,300 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $249,500.
The condo at 1575 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 204, sold on Oct. 17, for $242,000. Built in 1974, the condo is a studio with one bathroom and 450 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $236,000.
The condo at 2600 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 3080, sold on Oct. 15, for $357,000. Built in 1982, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,430 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $310,300.
ORMOND BEACH
Halifax Plantation
The house at 1329 Arklow
Circle sold on Oct. 15, for $699,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3.5 and has 3,221 square feet.
The house at 3100 Connemara Drive sold on Oct. 15, for $440,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,014 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $355,000.
Ormond Green
The house at 9 Greenvale Drive sold on Oct. 15, for $420,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, spa and 1,897 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $277,000.
Ormond Lakes
The house at 87 Emerald Oaks Lane sold on Oct. 15, for $772,600. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 3,245 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $599,000.
Ormond Terrace
The house at 233 Cumberland Ave. sold on Oct. 16, for $245,000. Built in 1961, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,856 square feet.
several decades, as his greatgrandfather owned the Daytona Cab Car Company — he also was responsible for building a dog house in 1940 for Daytona’s town dog Brownie, and later establishing a bank account in his name.
Due to Hurricane Milton, Budgen lost almost two weeks of work. As the tree that damaged his truck fell also damaged his home’s power line, his was the only house in their street without electricity for a week.
But the neighbors, he said, have been very helpful. One brought his family a generator after the storm, and he’d come home and see full cans of gas sitting on their porch.
Another neighbor provided them with food and transportation when needed.
“It gives me hope for humanity,” Budgen said.
“There’s probably eight or nine neighbors around here that just did everything they possibly could to help us out.”
But the best way his neighbors helped? They found him jobs to do.
“They’re putting me to work because they know it’s close by and I don’t need a truck to get there,” Budgen said. “We’re just taking it one day at a time.”
Plantation Bay
The house at 3077 Monaghan Drive sold on Oct. 17, for $370,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,895 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $96,250.
Riverbend Acres
The house at 236 Whippoorwill Lane sold on Oct. 16, for $500,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,392 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $195,000.
The Trails The townhome at 17 Maplewood Trail sold on Oct. 18, for $275,000. Built in 1978, the townhome is a 3/2 and has 1,696 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $138,000. The house at 10 Choctaw Trail sold on Oct. 16, for $668,500. Built in 1978, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,787 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $379,000.
Woodmere South The house at 126 Fairwood Circle sold on Oct. 18, for $312,200. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,570 square feet. It last sold in 1980 for $68,500.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA Seaside Manor The house at 25 Seaside Drive sold on Oct. 16, for $265,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 2/1 and has a fireplace and 784 square feet. It last sold in 1991 for $56,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Ed Budgen’s Chevy Silverado truck was damaged by a fallen tree during Hurricane Milton. Courtesy photo
Since losing his truck during Hurricane Milton, Ormond Beach resident Ed Budgen has been using his wife’s pink Chevy Spark for work. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Why run city sprinklers during water conservation time?
Dear Editor:
For the last several weeks, driving on U.S. 1 from Palm Coast Parkway to the first traffic circle, the automatic sprinklers on both sides of the highway were running full blast ... all day!
The drainage areas on both sides filled with water. We are told to conserve water, but whomever owns this sprinkler system is wasting hundreds, or more, gallons of water. For what? Anyone know the answer to this?
CAROL OWENS
Shoreline
Dear Editor:
The proposal to fund Flagler County’s shoreline restoration shortfall by taxing only barrier island residents is, at best, illogical and, at worst, divisive and discriminatory.
First, I commend the commission for its resourcefulness in securing initial funds for maintaining our beautiful shoreline — a vital asset to all Flagler residents.
However, asking only barrier island residents to cover
Editor’s note: Brittany Kershaw, Palm Coast’s director of communications and marketing, provided this answer:
“The city of Palm Coast operates its irrigation system routinely to manage reclaimed water supplies. Reclaimed water is treated wastewater that is recycled
for irrigation purposes, but the city can only store a limited amount.
By running irrigation regularly, the city ensures that it creates enough storage capacity to handle incoming wastewater.
This process helps prevent excess reclaimed water from
overwhelming the system, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
Essentially, it’s a proactive step to keep the wastewater system running efficiently while making use of the recycled water.”
tax singles out one group for a shared benefit
the remaining costs ignores that the shoreline provides countywide benefits, supporting tourism, protecting infrastructure, and preserving natural resources. The beaches are public, with parks and access points utilized by residents from all parts of the county.
Barrier island residents already contribute higher property taxes due to elevated assessments. These existing taxes, by the commission’s logic, should already
fund shoreline maintenance rather than subjecting residents to “double taxation” based solely on proximity.
The current proposal implies that residents near public services should carry a greater tax burden. For example, it implies a new west side recreation center should be funded only by residents west of Belle Terre Parkway. This makes no sense and creates a poor precedent for future projects. Indeed, barrier island resi-
dents will have a very strong argument against paying for future mainland projects. A more democratic, inclusive approach would spread the cost equitably across all county residents, making it manageable at less than $50 annually per property — an insignificant cost for a unified Flagler County community to manage its shoreline. Singling out barrier island residents fosters a discriminatory divide. Why should they fund shoreline upkeep
yet have no control over its use, access, maintenance or funding?
In short, this tax unfairly singles out one group for a shared benefit. I urge the commission to prioritize community unity over divisive policy by distributing costs more fairly across all of the beneficiaries.
JIM FOSTER Hammock Beach
Marijuana smoking in public could dissuade supporter
Dear Editor:
First things first: Mr. Glover (lette writer from the Sept. 26 edition), I’m sure you are not always the smartest person in the room. Whether you believe it or not, I’m positive that you have friends and relatives that smoke weed that you don’t know about. What is not bright is lump-
ing together all people in a group as one. Sheriff Rick Staly, I will vote for you as long as you want the job. Nobody has done a better job or deserves more respect and support. The item that struck me odd in your opinion of Amendment 3 (“Flagler Sheriff warns of hidden dangers in Florida’s Amendment 3, the legalization of recre-
ational marijuana”) was that people could smoke weed in public.
I read the amendment that you gave us the address to and found the exact opposite. On page 3 of limitations, item 6 says no accommodation for use in correctional, detention, educational, employment, or public places. I don’t want weed smok-
ing in public like cigarettes, so if you can share with the Observer where it says that then maybe you can change my mind on this issue.
RICH SCHULTZ Palm Coast
Editor’s Note: Cmdr. Mike Lutz of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office responded:
“If you read the section, (6, pg. 3), “or smoking medical marijuana in any public place,” it specifically highlights medical marijuana, not recreational marijuana, and those are two different uses. Therefore recreational marijuana would be allowed in a public place, but medical marijuana would not. It is a very distinctive difference.”
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 PALM COAST Observer
Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com
Marketing Consultants Paula Losinger Paula@observerlocalnews. com; April Koehler, akoehler@ observerlocalnews.com; Travis Hurlbut, Travis@observerlocalnews. com Office Coordinator Kay Raymond, Kay@observerlocalnews.com
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and was written that way purposely.” Lutz further said that if the amendment does not prohibit adult use of marijuana in public, it would be allowed if the amendment passes.
Withhold not a compliment
Ormond MainStreet.
When I stopped at home briefly after work, before leaving for another evening event, my 6-year-old son, Luke, came running.
“You just need one thing,” he said.
“What’s that?”
He gave me a bear hug.
Which would have been adorable, except that my back was sore, and it was quite painful.
“Where are you going?” he asked.
“To a retirement party,” I said. His jaw dropped cartoonishly. “You’re retiring?!?”
Not exactly. Give me another 24 years or so. Instead, I drove to Garry Lubi’s retirement party.
The previous week, I attended another event, this time in Ormond Beach, where Becky Parker was celebrated for her 10 years at
In both events, in contrast to the division and rancor of the national political scene, I witnessed the guests of honor tear up, feeling admired and rewarded. And, as one speech after another was given, I looked around at the people in the crowd: They were rapt, all smiles, glowing.
In those moments, how can the audience not feel unified by love?
It was refreshing to rest in these little oases of pure good-natured celebration.
Which led me to wonder: What could I do to prolong the magic? Or, in everyday moments that were merely mundane or frustrating, how could I re-enter the celebration zone?
Before I left Lubi’s event, I asked him if he had any wise words for me, considering he had already finished raising his children and had successfully concluded his career of 48 years in banking.
“It’s about relationships,” he said.
In other words, I thought, treat people as you would want to be treated. Earn their trust. Show up, spend quality time, and spread goodwill with honest compliments.
In the words of the Proverb: “Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine
hand to do it.”
And so, since I have the power of a few paragraphs in my hand, I’d like to use them to celebrate a few people, even though they’re not retiring or celebrating any milestones:
Sage Wilcox: Every morning, Sage drives my daughter to high school after a church class. She is one of the most selfless people I know.
Bill Navarra: Whenever I see him at Ormond Beach events, Bill always gives me a genuine smile and makes me feel welcome. I learned something when I saw him gathering his employees for a group picture at the MainStreet event, creating a positive culture in his company, leading by example.
Kim Sunshine: Kim is the type of person who will walk you across a room just to introduce you to someone else who might be able to help you. What does she get out of it? The joy of helping others.
Kathy Austrino: This week, she took some time to give me some honest, professional feedback. I could tell she wanted me to succeed.
Maureen Ryan: A great listener. A cheerful, thoughtful soul. What’s a compliment you’d like to share? Email brian@ observerlocalnews.com.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
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it illegal to advertise any preference,
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of
sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
The Boo-Ling for Wishes fundraiser raised enough money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida to fulfill three wishes for critically ill children.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Bowling was just one of the competitions at the second annual Boo-Ling for Wishes fundraiser on Oct. 26
at Palm Coast Lanes. Participants obviously took the individual and team costume contests very seriously.
Costumes include Gru and his Minions and a variety of inflatable outfits. Realty Executives Oceanside hosted the event to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida.
The event’s goal was to raise enough money to fulfill two wishes for critically ill children, or about $16,000. But they actually raised enough to grant a wish for three children, said Josephine L’Heureux, Realty Executives Oceanside administrative executive.
The event sponsor was Stellar MLS with about two dozen other local businesses providing sponsorships.
About 30 other local businesses provided baskets for the silent auction.
Make-A-Wish representative Alyssa Muma served as judge for the costume contests.
The Sweet family of St. Augustine enjoyed the cosmic bowling. Cora Sweet, 7, is scheduled to have her wish come true — swimming with dolphins as part of a Disney cruise to the Bahamas — in January.
Joining Cora at Boo-Ling were her parents, Leandra and Joshua, brother Marsden and sisters Tavia and Hadley. Cora has a rare congenital heart disease and has traveled to California twice for open heart surgeries. She will require lifelong interventions, her mother said.
In addition to the upcoming cruise, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has provided the family with other special outings, including the bowling event, a fashion show that included Cora, making her feel very special, her parents said, and a jewelry store event in Ponte Vedra Beach that made Cora a princess for a day.
“Make-A-Wish is just such an amazing organization,” Leandra Sweet said.
Sheriff’s Office kicks off Halloween with annual Trunk-or-Treat
The Flagler Beach Police Department hosted its Trunk-or-Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the FBPD station.
OBSERVER STAFF
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office kicked off its Halloween celebrations with its annual drive-through Trunk-or-Treat event.
Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly once again dressed as Woody from Disney’s Toy Story while his wife, Debbie, dressed as Woody’s counterpart, Jessie, to hand out candy to children at the Oct. 24 free event. Sheriff’s office deputies and employees lined up in the Kim C. Hammond Justice Center parking lot to hand out candy to kids in cars.
The Flagler Beach Police Department hosts their own free Trunk-orTreat event from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26 at the FBPD station at 204 S. Flagler Ave. The FCSO’s Police Athletic League is also hosting its own Halloween celebration from 4-6:30 p.m. at the Hidden Trails Community Center, located at 6108 Mahogany Blvd. in Bunnell.
Make-A-Wish family Leandra and Joshua Sweet and children, Hadley, Cora, Tavia and Marsden, participated in Boo-Ling for Wishes. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Sponsors and Realty Executives Oceanside crew at the Boo-Ling for Wishes fundraiser on Oct. 26 at Palm Coast Lanes. Courtesy photo
A Flagler Sheriff’s Office deputy hands out candy at the 2024 FCSO Trunk or Treat.
Sheriff Rick Staly and his wife Debbie hand out candy at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office annual Halloween Trunk or Treat.
Photos courtesy of FCSO
Kids pose in their costumes at the 2024 FCSO Trunk or Treat event.
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
TRUNK-OR-TREAT
When: 5-7 p.m.
Where: Tomoka United Methodist Church, 1000 Old Tomoka Road, Ormond Beach
Details: Take part in this “spooktacular” evening. There will be candy, games with prizes, goodie bags, cookies, cider, juice and popcorn and Halloween tunes.
FRIDAY, NOV. 1
33RD WALK AROUND FLORIDA
When: Friday, Nov. 1 to Sunday, Nov.
3
Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Take part in four walks, a bike and a swim in the Palm Coast area, sponsored by Happy Wanderers, Mid-Florida Milers and the Suncoast Sandpipers, members of the American Volkssport Association. Celebrate Florida nature in this weekend of events. Visit happywanderersfl.org.
CRAFT EXTRAVAGANZA
When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2
Where: Flagler Woman’s Club, 1524 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach
Details: The Flagler Woman’s Club is hosting a Craft Extravaganza event which will feature a bake sale, raffle and handmade Christmas items, including home décor, gifts, clothing, accessories, holiday decorations and more. The proceeds will benefit local charities, scholarships and organizations. Entry is free. A lunch will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call Penny at 386447-0399.
FIRST FRIDAY GARDEN WALK
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast
Details: Come out the first Friday of the month to learn more about the gardens and history of Washington Oaks. No registration necessary; the walk is included with the park’s entry fees. Meet at the garden parking
Dr. Indira Álvarez, Clinical Director & Owner Palm Coast Hearing Center
It’s that time of the year again, when Medicare beneficiaries get to choose a different supplement or Medicare replacement plan for upcoming year. This is an important decision, as it will impact the monthly cost of the plan, the co-pays and deductible amounts and the coverage for medication. For many people with hearing impairment, another factor to consider is whether or not their prospective plans cover hearing aids. Although we see many commercials and fliers in the mail touting all the “free stuff” you get from some of those plans, it can still be hard to know what kind of coverage is included, and if “free” really means free. In the world of audiology, most practices (including us at Palm Coast & Ormond Hearing Center) accept Medicare, which means you are covered for one diagnostic hearing exam a year. Medicare alone however, does not cover hearing aids (or dental or vision) so you may be looking for a supplement or a Medicare replacement plan (called Medicare Advantage plans) to fill in the gaps for medicine and other benefits like hearing aids. At first glance Medicare Advantage plans seem to offer an incredible value, with all kinds of additional benefits, some with a $0 plan premium- sounds great, right? Well, as with most things in life you get what you pay for. It’s important to know that when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan, you must go to an in-network provider and
lot at 10 a.m. and wear comfortable walking shoes. Tours last one hour.
ITALIAN VISAS — ITALY EVENT
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Odyssey Travel, 146 S. Atlantic Ave., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Odyssey Travel for wine and appetizers. Presenting Collette’s Italian Vistas, a trip through Rome, Sorrento, Florence and more on May 5-17, 202. RSVP by calling April Toth at 386-672-8113.
Details: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “Top Gun: Maverick,” rated PG-13. Movies are weather-sensitive. Call 386-6763216 for rainout information.
Details: This is a native plant sale and education event by Natural Beauty. There will be an info booth, native seed packs for sale, kid friendly craft, and an 11 a.m. classroom presentation by the Pawpaw Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.
VETERAN CARE AND WELLNESS GOALS
When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Ave., Ormond Beach
Details: Healthier, Wealthier, Wiser, Inc. is hosting an awareness event for veteran health and mental health. Free lunch and there will be door prizes.
TOUR DE TOMOKA 2024:
MODEL A CAR SHOW
When: 12-3 p.m.
Where: Tomoka Outpost inside Tomoka State Park, 2099 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Take a stroll along the Tomoka River at the Tomoka Outpost inside Tomoka State Park and see a display of history in the form of Model A specific vehicles. There will be live music by Jim Lamb and food
trucks. Tomoka State Park entry fees apply. For a vehicle with a single occupant, it’s $4; for up to 8 people in a vehicle, it’s $5. For bicyclist or pedestrians, it’s $2.
ORMOND ART WALK
When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery, Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art openings and art events.
Details: Temple Beth Shalom in Palm Coast will host all furry, feathered and other critters and their owners for its annual Non-Sectarian Blessing of the Pets. Free admission and parking. Pets will receive a personalized blessing certificate signed by Rabbi Karen Tashman. Local animal support organizations will be on hand to provide information and education. Raffle prizes will also be awarded. Call the TBS office at 386445-3006 for more information.
RUMOURS ATL:
A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Ceter, 5500 State Route 100, Palm Coast
Details: See Rumours ATL perform its renditions of Fleetwood Mac songs. Rumours ATL is fronted by Mekenzie Zimmerman. Adrienne Cottrell, and Denny Hanson. John Spiegel on lead guitar, Jim Ramsdell on bass and Daniel Morrison on drums make up the band. Tickets
you may need a referral; unlike traditional Medicare, where you can go to any doctor who accepts Medicare and you don’t need a referral. For example, Mayo Clinic here in Florida does not accept Medicare Advantage plans. Many providers, especially smaller private practices, are unable to accept Advantage plan patients due to the poor reimbursement. Many of us love our local providers in private practices because of the individualized care, more time and a closer relationship that we have with our doctors. Many patients don’t realize that the reduced reimbursement offered to providers may be related to all those extra “free” benefits- basically you are agreeing to less choices when it comes to what providers you can see and what tests and treatments will be approved. Also, with most Advantage plans, in-network providers must request prior approval for many tests, medications, and procedures. You can read more about access and how Advantage plans work at medicare.gov, and by Googling “trade-offs when choosing Medicare Advantage over traditional Medicare”. Also, although Advantage
start at $54. Visit flaglerauditorium. org.
TUESDAY, NOV. 5
MASTER GARDENER
PLANT CLINIC
When: 10:30 a.m. to noon
Where: Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond
Beach
Details: Attend this interactive program that provides research-based horticultural education to homeowners. Bring your questions, samples and photos.
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. Class costs $75. All supplies included. No drawing required. Class is limited to six students.. Call 386-317-9400 to reserve a spot.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6
PALM COAST ASTRONOMY CLUB
MEETINGWHEN: 5:30-6:30 P.M.
Where: Flagler County Public Library, 2500 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast
Details: The Palm Coast Astronomy Club will hold its next meeting at the library. The meeting’s topic will be “Introduction to the Fall Constellations.” Everyone interested in astronomy is welcome. The meeting room is located to the right after entering the library.
THURSDAY, NOV. 7
ANNUAL PAYCHECKS FOR PATRIOTS JOB FAIR
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach Details: CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia is hosting this job fair to help veterans find employment. Free and open to the public. Walkins are welcome. To register, visit careersourcebrevard.com/event/ paychecks-for-patriots-job-fair-allare-welcome-2.
VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION AND LUNCHEON
When: 12-2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Senior Center, 351 Andrews St., Ormond Beach
Details: Join the city of Ormond Beach in honoring veterans with a special celebration and luncheon. Veterans can attend for free and guests are welcome for $7.
Details: Held during school hours, this program features students, speakers, a military flag display and the school’s music department. About 60 veterans from the Ormond Beach area have been invited to attend and will be recognized. Parents, family members and community members are invited to attend as well. Visitors must be pre-registered with the school office.
A RED RUM MURDER DINNER SHOW
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast VFW, 47 Old Kings Road N, Palm Coast Details: The Seawolf Privateers are having another murder mystery dinner show. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the show begins at 6:00 PM. Tickets cost $55. There will be a cash bar, silent auction, games of chance, and more. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/fundraisers.
THE GATLIN BROTHERS
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Ceter, 5500 State Route 100, Palm Coast
Details: Larry, Steve and Rudy, the Gatlin Brothers, are Grammy awardwinners who have dazzled audiences for more than 69 years. Tickets start at $64. Visit flaglerauditorium.org.
SATURDAY, NOV. 9
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
ANNUAL HOLIDAY FAIR
When: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Trinity Presbyterian Church, 156 Florida Park Drive, Palm Coast
Details: Peruse handmade crafts and gently used treasures, collectible dolls and bears, and more. There will be raffles and a silent auction, homemade baked goods and a traditional lunch with a ham salad and vegetable soup to enjoy in the cafe. Free event.
plans accept patients with pre-existing conditions, if you want to switch back to Medicare and a supplement, many of the supplement plans will not take you back if you have a pre-existing condition - that means you can go back to regular Medicare but you will not be able to get a supplement to fill in the gap (20%) that Medicare does not pay.
When it comes to hearing benefits, most Advantage plans use a third-party provider to administer the benefits, which means there is yet another entity involved. You may receive a benefit or more likely, get a “discount”, but only if you see an in-network provider and only on the devices on their formulary. This may not be a big deal, unless you need or want higher level technology or want to see a certain specialist. Many smaller practices who prioritize patient outcomes and spend more time with patients to ensure they receive the best care possible simply cannot participate with such plans due to the extremely low reimbursement rates. Why are they so low? People forget that insurance companies are for-profit entities- it is in their best
interest to spend as little as possible on care, and to take as long as possible to pay claims (so that billions of dollars can sit in the bank and accrue interest for shareholders). Alternately, most supplements that offer a hearing benefit will pay any provider you choose, and you can choose whatever technology you need or want, with no limits to what’s on their “discounted” list. Sadly, another little known fact is that many of the agents who are counseling seniors on these plans get commissions for the number of patients they enroll in Advantage plans, so their “most popular plan” is likely the one paying the agent the highest commission. When it is all said and done, make sure you ask your doctors if they accept the plan you are considering (we get calls all the time from patients who have a popular Advantage plan we don’t participate in, who tell us we are on their insurance’s website as providers). Check and make sure your medications are covered and make sure you understand how the “value-added benefits” like hearing care are administered, so that you feel confident when you
make your choice. When it comes to access, it’s tough to beat traditional Medicare, where you can go to any doctor anywhere in the United States, without a referral or prior authorizations. Center for Medicare Advocacy attorneys David Lipschutz and Kata Kertesz said while there are barriers in traditional Medicare, those barriers are worse for MA enrollees, and that Advantage plans seem to work well for the young and healthy, but not so well for many who are not.
Sometimes if it looks too good to be true, it is!
At Palm Coast Hearing Center, our mission is to provide the best quality hearing care possible, educate the community and help all patients make informed decisions so they can get the care they need and deserve. Want to learn more about hearing health? Visit our website at palmcoasthearingcenter.com and click the “About” button, then “Helpful Articles”. You can also schedule an appointment online. We also have a second location to serve you in Ormond Beach at www. ormondhearingcenter.com.
Buddy Taylor Middle School hosts second annual career fair
The fair was coorganized by the Flagler County Education Foundation and the Palm Coast Junior Chamber.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
For the second year in a row, Buddy Taylor has hosted a career fair to show students what career opportunities are available outside of going to college.
“We want the kids to know there is so much available in Flagler County for them to pursue, if that’s what they want,” BTMS Principal Cara Cronk said.
The Oct. 23 fair, co-organized by the Flagler County Education Foundation and the Palm Coast Junior Chamber, featured over 50 vendors this year, including tables for Flagler County, Palm Coast, several first responders and other trade industries and
programs.
This year, Cronk said, they tried to also include programs featured at the high schools — like the Junior ROTC programs and Matanzas High School’s Culinary program. The high schools offer several programs that allow students to graduate with certifications and immediately join the work force.
“What we wanted was to make sure that the students and parents are fully aware of all the opportunities at both high schools,” she said.
Hostin the high school programs at the fair allows the middle school students to talk to the high school students in the programs, she said, that way the students can make an informed decision before signing up for them.
“One of the things that we know as educators is not everyone is going to go get a college degree, and that’s fine. That is okay,” Cronk said.
Several of the tables brought interactive displays for the students to try out. Lauren Ramirez, of Salus Medical Training, brought training
dummies and fake blood and medications for students to try their hand at both drawing blood and administering medication with a needle.
“This is for students or adults or anyone looking for a medical career,” Ramirez said. Salus provides training and certifications for several
YOUR TOWN
Ed
Foundation presents 45 teacher grants
The Flagler County Education Foundation and Beaver Toyota
different careers — including phlebotomy and medical assisting, as well as a variety of first aid certifications.
Cronk said the goal was to have a variety of participants to appeal to all of the students, not just the college-bound kids.
“To have the exposure to all these different things that kids can pursue right out of high school, if they want to, it just it makes me very happy,” Cronk said. “That is one of our goals, is to show the kids that there are different career avenues for every type of student.”
delivered a record-breaking 45 classroom grants totaling $72,000 to 11 Flagler County schools during the week ending Oct. 18.
The Beaver Toyota Teacher Grants program matches the funds by the Florida Consortium of Florida Education Foundations to provide teachers funding for supplies, classroom items and enrichment activities — projects or programs not included in the school’s budget.
According to the National Education Association, more than 90% of teachers spend an average of $500 of their own money for school supplies and other items that their students need to succeed.
Matanzas High School JROTC Cadet Cpts. Arabella Allen and Ana Heartz.
Flagler County Fire Rescue Cpt. Armando Castaneda
Lauren Ramirez, from Salus Medical Training, shows students how to draw blood and administer medication. Photos by Sierra Williams
City of Palm Coast wastewater employees Anna Patrick and Ron Cook at the 2024 Buddy Taylor Middle School career fair.
The Flagler County Education Foundation and Beaver Toyota delivered 45 classroom grants totaling $72,000. Courtesy photo
A ruby anniversary: Ormond Beach Senior Games held for 40th year
The Ormond Beach Senior Games is sanctioned by the Florida Sports Foundation as a qualifier for the Florida Senior Games.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Almost 300 people took part in the 40th annual Ormond Beach Senior Games, held Oct. 18-26.
Tennis, swimming, basketball, pickleball, bowling and golf were among the sport events held throughout the week in various locations around town for the games, which are organized every year by a volunteer board. To pay tribute to its 40th anniversary, board members and participants each received a ruby red shirt. Board Chair Patty Fennell said the games encourage local seniors to stay active, which is one of her passions and what motivated her to become the board’s chair three years ago.
“It’s more about staying healthy and having fun, and that’s what we want with all of our games,” Fennell said.
The games’ opening ceremony, featuring Ormond Beach marathon runner Angelika Grubel as the torch bearer, was held on Friday, Oct. 18, at the Ormond Beach Senior Center.
always a joy to see seniors take part in the games.
Every year, all who attend receive a free lunch and the mayor issues a proclamation, and this year was no exception.
Open to everyone 50 years of age and older, with no residency requirements, the Ormond Beach Senior Games is sanctioned by the Florida Sports Foundation as a qualifier for the Florida Senior Games.
The Senior Games are its own entity, but the city of Ormond Beach supports the games by helping the board and providing facilities. Ormond Beach Community Events Coordinator Sonja Johnson said it’s
“They pat each other on the back,” Johnson said. “They encourage each other. The ages are so varied, but it doesn’t matter, because everybody encourages everybody. ... The spirit and the teamwork, even though it’s individual, is very uplifting.”
In 2019, Fennell was the opening ceremony’s torchbearer. A swimmer, she qualified for the state senior games and moved on to Nationals, bringing medals back home.
“We try to bring somebody back who’s been participating in the senior games to be our torch bearer that actually opens up our games during our opening ceremony,” Fennell said.
Over the week, she got the chance to watch a few of the events. Being a sanctioned event, participants registered from all over the state, she
said. One of her highlights is seeing how grateful everyone was for the events, as they loved the opportunity to participate.
“We’re very, very excited to put Ormond Beach Senior Games out there and open it up to anybody,” Fennell said. “... Just the smiles that you see and the ‘thank yous’ that you continually hear from all of them, it’s very inspirational.”
Other highlights also include seeing some of the older participants perform well: an 80-year-old woman in swimming and a 96-year-old man in golf.
“I don’t think you’re ever too old,” Fennell said. “Again, it’s about getting out and moving and participating, and that’s what’s truly helpful for our population — to stay out there, to be socialized, not to have social isolation, but to come out and have a good time in these games, and that’s what it’s about.”
The board that puts the games together used to be composed of
mainly retired individuals. But now, the six-person board is made up of people who all work full-time — Johnson said a lot of people may not realize that.
“This is pretty incredible,” she said.
Fennell said the board is very passionate.
“We put lots of time and effort in it to make it a phenomenal event,” Fennell said. “We want to make it better and better every year.”
The partnerships with the venues for the events, which include The Trails Racquet Club, Ormond Beach YMCA, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Pictona at Holly Hill, Aberdeen, Revive Fitness, Daytona Beach Golf Club and city of Ormond Beach facilities, are a key to the games’ success too, Fennell said.
“All the venues have already said yes to next year,” she said. “Some of our sponsors have already said yes for next year. They want to be back.”
Ormond Beach Senior Games powerlifting participants.
The Ormond Beach Senior Games swimming participants.
Angelika Grubel carries the torch during the opening ceremony. Photos courtesy of Ed Fennell
Participants of the Ormond Beach Senior Games basketball game.
From the time quarterback Hayden Hayes transferred to Flagler Palm Coast during the summer, he and receiver Mikhail Zysek began developing a connection.
Before the home game against Spruce Creek on Oct. 25, the two seniors got on the field early and threw the ball around, making sure they were in the right mindset, Hayes said.
It didn’t take long for the pair to hook up in the game. One minute and 13 seconds in, Zysek made a diving catch in the end zone for a 28-yard touchdown reception from Hayes. Zysek hauled in two more touchdowns in the game and Hayes heaved a schoolrecord six touchdown passes in all as the Bulldogs defeated the Hawks 50-39 in a District 2-7A shootout.
Hayes also broke the singleseason school record. He now has 25 touchdown passes in eight games.
It was the second game in a row that Zysek caught three touchdown passes from Hayes.
“Oh, don’t even get me started on Hayden Hayes. I love him through and through,” Zysek said. “He’s playing amazing. He came here and he took us from a team last year (that went) 4-6. They predicted us this year to not be good again and you see what happens when a team comes together and they play like a brotherhood.”
The Bulldogs improved to 7-1 with two games to play. They host Flagler county rival Matanzas in the annual Potato Bowl game on Friday, Nov. 1, and then finish the regularseason with another home game on Thursday, Nov. 7, against DeLand.
FPC entered the game against Creek ranked fourth in Region 1-7A. If the Bulldogs can maintain that position or move up they will host a firstround playoff game on Nov. 15.
Hayes finished the game with 362 yards passing and six touchdowns with no interceptions. Zysek caught six passes for 187 yards. In addition to his 28-yard touchdown reception, he caught scoring passes of 21 and 76 yards.
“They have a great connection. It’s been like that all year,” FPC offensive coordinator Jake Medlock said of the duo. “They work extra after every practice. Even in the summer when (Hayes) got here, they worked extra. They found a connection, and as you can tell, it’s still there.”
Hayes also threw touchdown passes to Braylyn Simmons (66 yards), Roman Caliendo (16 yards) and Marcus Mitchell (5 yards) in the win.
“Obviously, he and Zysek are on a hot streak right now,” FPC head coach Daniel Fish said. “But Hayden trusts everybody and he’ll throw the ball to everybody. I’m proud of him, and I’m proud of our guys for stepping up and making plays, because I think he threw great balls all night, but our guys had to make some tough catches with some tough coverage as well.”
Medlock said once Hayes arrived on campus after transferring from Seabreeze, he worked hard to learn the offense.
“I’m so proud of him and the way he’s picked my brain to understand the offense,” Medlock said. “The way our offense is moving, as long as
Radio/stream: Listen — WZNF
94.9 FM; Flaglerbroadcasting. com; Flagler Radio app. Watch — Flagler Radio YouTube Channel; WNZF Facebook Page.
Saturday: Rich and Mike Show, 7:30 a.m. WNZF. Podcast on website and app.
we got (number) 2 back there, we’re going to do some special stuff.”
The Bulldogs’ game plan included opening with an onside kick. When Spruce Creek (5-3) won the coin toss and elected to receive, the plan was in motion. The onside kick caught the Hawks by surprise, and the Bulldogs recovered the ball to set up the first Hayes-to-Zysek touchdown. They went up 14-0 on their next possession on Simmons’ long touchdown reception.
Garrett Tucker added a 35-yard field goal to put the Bulldogs up 17-0 early in the second quarter before the Hawks finally got on the scoreboard. FPC led 23-14 at the half.
“We put a lot of time into our Sunday game plan meeting, and we felt like we had a great game plan on both sides of the ball,” Fish said. “We said we’re going to attack them early and we’re going to show them some stuff we haven’t shown before. We started off with the onside kick. We knew they wouldn’t be ready for that. We hadn’t shown it all year.”
In the second half, the teams traded scores until the Hawks scored two unanswered touchdowns to pull to within three points at 36-33 with 5:20 left in the game.
But Hayes hit Zysek with a 76-yard bomb on the Bulldogs’ next possession, and Colby Cronk recovered a
Hawks’ fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, sealing the victory.
“We knew it was going to be a shootout, and we just got to keep scoring,” Zysek said. “And we kept scoring.” Marcus Mitchell added 115 yards rushing on 28 carries. Cronk had 3.5 sacks. Grant Winkler intercepted a pass.
“I’m just proud of our kids and our coaching staff,” Fish said. “We knew it was going to be tough, and we knew it was going to be back and forth. There were times where they pushed it really close, and they got real competitive with us and we didn’t bow down, we didn’t fold. We rose up to the challenge and we threw punches right back at them and landed a
couple big blows there in the second half that kind of put them away.”
Flagler Palm Coast quarterback Hayden Hayes throws a schoolrecord six touchdowns, three to receiver Mikhail Zysek,
FPC’s Corinthians Watson (0) tries to track down Denali Campbell (3).
Mikhail Zysek caught three touchown passes for the second week in a row.
Hayden Hayes throws a pass. The FPC quarterback completed 16 passes for 362 yards and a schoolrecord six touchdowns. Photos by Brent Woronoff
FPC’s Braylyn Simmons (1) caught two passes for 108 yards.
Bulldogs coach Daniel Fish congratulates his players on the victory while reminding them they can’t let down heading into their final two games.
Spruce Creek quarterback PJ Miller (12) runs away from FPC defensive end Colby Cronk.
Matanzas honors its seniors in final home football game of the season
The Pirates, who fell to Menendez 21-10, travel to Flagler Palm Coast on Friday, Nov. 1, for the annual Potato Bowl game.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas celebrated its seniors before its final home football game of the season on Oct. 25 but couldn’t pull off a win against Pedro Menendez.
The Falcons (5-4) broke open a 7-7 halftime tie with two second-half touchdowns to defeat the Pirates, 21-10.
Matanzas recognized each of its seniors in football, sideline cheer, band and color guard, JROTC and athletic training students aides.
Matanzas (4-5) will make the short trip to Flagler Palm Coast for the annual Potato Bowl game on Friday, Nov. 1. It will be the first time in three years that the teams will be playing on the final week of the season. But FPC (7-1) has one more regular-season game on Nov. 7 against DeLand, which was rescheduled due to Hur-
Milton.
The Falcons held the Pirates to 189 total yards. Menendez controlled the line of scrimmage, holding Matanzas to 2.4 yards per carry on the ground and recorded 11 tackles for loss and four sacks.
Matanzas junior Jordan Schendorf caught a touchdown pass from Caden Burchfield. Alex Procek kicked a 20-yard field goal. Cooper May led the Pirates with 10 total tackles.
For the Falcons, Mason Lynch ran for 143 yards and a touchdown, Nate Carr caught three passes for 64 yards and a touchdown, and Jayden Roberts scored on a punt return.
ricane
Matanzas High School football seniors with coach Matt Forrest. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Matanzas senior cheerleaders.
Matanzas seniors in the athletic training student aide program: Dioz Cruz and Christopher Camarena.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Pirates break four swim records
Matanzas swimmers broke four school records at the regional meet on Oct. 29. Teddy Vanderbilt and Keaton Lasicki broke school records in the 100-yard backstroke and the 100 breaststroke for the second week in a row. Vanderbilt, Lasicki, Leo Peters and Oliver Morris also set school marks in the 100 medley relay and the 200 freestyle relay.
Alred qualifies for regionals
Matanzas senior golfer Zoe Alred qualified individually for regionals on Oct. 29 at the district tournament at Ocala Golf Club. The Pirates placed third, one spot out of qualifying position. At the boys district tournament on Oct. 28 at Ocala Golf Club, Matanzas placed fifth, while FPC was sixth. Jacob Roster led the Pirates with an 81 for 12th plae. Trevor Challice shot 85 for 16th place. For FPC, Caleb Zarraonandia shot an 84 for 15th place and Adam Kleinfelder shot 85 to land in 16th place.
Email Brent Woronoff at brent@observerlocalnews. com
Three-peat for FPC’s boys and girls cross country teams
There was little doubt that the Flagler Palm Coast girls cross country team was going to win the Five Star Conference championship for the third year in a row. But coach David Halliday wanted to make sure, and he wanted to remind his runners along the way that cross country is a team sport.
The Bulldogs’ girls and boys teams each won a third straight title at the Five Star championships Oct. 26 at New Smyrna Beach. FPC senior Braedyn Wormeck won the boys’ individual title for the second straight year.
Spruce Creek’s Mackenzie Roy won the girls’ race with a personal record time of 17 minutes, 3.3 seconds. Only four girls have run a faster 5K time at a state meet. Her twin sister, Arianna Roy, was second at 18:19.4, a time that would have won Class 4A the state championship last season.
It was a given that the Roy sisters were going to place first and second. Halliday wanted to make sure the Bulldogs ran in a pack ahead of the other Spruce Creek runners.
“We were trying to figure out a way to get our fifth, sixth girls up a little closer to make sure Spruce Creek had no way of stealing the meet,” Halladay said.
So the Bulldogs’ strategy was
to have their whole team run with Creek’s No. 3 runner, Bella Niewald, up to the two-mile point.
“Basically, we had seven girls running behind (Niewald) for 2 miles and then they took off,” Halliday said.
University’s Hannah Judge placed third in 18:34.4, but FPC took the next six spots: Freshman Peyton
Cerasi (fourth, 18:38.8), junior Arianna Slaughter (fifth, 19.49.6) and seniors Madison Lagard (sixth, 19:59.0), Cassidy De Young (seventh, 20:07.7), Isabella Tarsitano (eighth, 20:08.2) and Taylor Novak (ninth, 20:20.5). Sophomore Anna Grigoruk placed 11th in 20:44, one spot behind Niewald.
The FPC girls placed first with 30 points, while Creek was a distant second with 45 points.
Halliday’s runners were skeptical of the strategy. It seemed counterintuitive to run at a slower pace than what they were used to for twothirds of a race.
“I said, ‘I promise you this is going to work,’” Halliday said. “The girls never had done anything like that before. But they realized they were in great shape, pacing with (Niewald) and going slower but under control. As a result they gained confidence in their coaches and they saw that not every race has to be for a PR. Their confidence and camaraderie grew on Saturday.”
And Lagard, Tarsitano, Novak and Girgoruk did run PRs, while Cerasi was just 3.8 seconds off the schoolrecord time she set a week earlier at
the fast New World course in Jacksonville.
Wormeck ran his fastest time of the season at 16:31.1, beating New Smyrna Beach’s Sam McDuffie by four seconds.
Wormeck had a late start this season. He injured his hip and lower back in track season and was unable to run for 10 weeks. Lately he’s been getting his confidence back that he can finish strong, Halliday said. But comebacks are nothing new for the senior who two years ago ran in the state meet six weeks after suffering a burst appendix.
FPC’s Jevin Luna was third at 16:38.2. Seabreze’s Hunter Shuler ran a personal-record 16:50.4 to place sixth.
FPC’s Brant Tarsitano (17:09.8) and freshman Owen Stackpole (17:19.4) also recorded PR’s to place ninth and 10th. Freshman Mateo Almeida (17:57.1) was 15th. The Bulldogs now head to the postseason with the District 1-4A meet Nov. 2 at Bartram Trail. The FPC girls are ranked third in their district and region and fifth in the state. The boys are ranked eighth in their region.
FPC runners Jevin Luna (left) and Braedyn Wormeck at the Five Star Conference cross country championships. Wormeck won the individual title for the second straight year.
The FPC boys and girls cross country teams won the Five Star Conference championship for the third straight year. Courtesy photos
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 October 24, 2024. Personal Representative: Gerard Fiore 8734 Sandbar Lane Panama City Beach, Florida 32413
Attorney for Personal Representative: DOUGLAS A. OBERDORFER, Esquire, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 0139092 432 East Monroe Street Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Telephone: (904) 354-5454
Fax: (904) 350-9803
E-Mail: doug@oberdorferlaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: service@oberdorferlaw.com October 24, 31, 2024 24-00257G
SECOND INSERTION
2024 at 11:00:00 AM EST the following described real property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 4, BLOCK 56, SUBDIVISION PLAT, SEMINOLE PARK - SECTION 58, SEMINOLE WOODS AT PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 19, PAGES 26 THROUGH 40, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE OF LANDOWNERS’ MEETING AND ELECTION AND MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE HUNTER’S RIDGE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 1
Notice is hereby given to the public and all landowners within Hunter’s Ridge Community Development District No. 1 (the “District”) in Flagler County, Florida, advising that a meeting of landowners will be held for the purpose of electing one (1) person to the District Board of Supervisors. Immediately following the landowners’ meeting there will be convened a meeting of the Board of Supervisors for the purpose of considering certain matters of the Board to include election of certain District officers, and other such business which may properly come before the Board.
DATE: November 22, 2024 TIME: 11:30 a.m. PLACE: Flagler County Government Services Building 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building. 2 Bunnell, Florida 32110
Each landowner may vote in person or by written proxy. Proxy forms may be obtained upon request at the office of the District Manager, 2300 Glades Road, Suite 410W, Boca Raton, Florida 33431. At said meeting each landowner or his or her proxy shall be entitled to nominate persons for the position of Supervisor and cast one vote per acre of land, or fractional portion thereof, owned by him or her and located within the District for each person to be elected to the position of Supervisor. A fraction of an acre shall be treated as one acre, entitling the landowner
to one vote with respect thereto. Platted lots shall be counted individually and rounded up to the nearest whole acre. The acreage of platted lots shall not be aggregated for determining the number of voting units held by a landowner or a landowner’s proxy. At the landowners’ meeting, the landowners shall select a person to serve as the meeting chair and who shall conduct the meeting. The landowners’ meeting and the Board of Supervisors meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law. One or both of the meetings may be continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at such meeting. A copy of the agenda for these meetings may be obtained from 2300
RENEE
DYRESEN; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S) WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIM-
ANTS are Defendants. The Clerk of the Court, Tom Bexley will sell to the highest bidder for cash at Clerk of Circuit and County Court, Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 1, Civil/Criminal Dept 2nd Floor, Bunnell, FL 32110 on November 22,
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 21 day of October, 2024. ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 5300 West Atlantic Avenue Suite 303 Delray Beach, FL 33484 Telephone: 561-392-6391 Facsimile: 561-392-6965 By: Digitally signed by Zachary Ullman FBN: 106751 Primary E-Mail: ServiceMail@aldridgepite.com 1100-905B October 24, 31, 2024 24-00258G
