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- ⭐10' Tiger Shark Caught, Pollen Surge, Seabreeze Soccer, Civic League Changes
⭐10' Tiger Shark Caught, Pollen Surge, Seabreeze Soccer, Civic League Changes
Issue #841
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Ash Perdue & Ayden Rogers, Courtesy Photo
🦈 10-Foot Tiger Shark Reeled In Off Flagler Coast
Early mornings on the beach usually promise a sunrise and a quiet cast into the surf. For 23-year-old Ash Perdue and 18-year-old Ayden Rogers, it delivered something much bigger.
On Feb. 13, the pair set up for shark fishing along the Ormond/Flagler coastline, armed with a drone and two 80W reels. Around 4 a.m., they sent bait far offshore using the drone—a growing technique among serious surf anglers. Hours later, just as they prepared to reel in their line around 12:30 p.m., it suddenly took off.
After a 30-minute fight, they landed a 10-foot tiger shark.
The catch was impressive not only for its size but for the teamwork and patience involved. Tiger sharks are powerful predators, known for their strength and endurance. Fortunately, the anglers were able to safely release the shark back into the surf after documenting the moment.
Rogers, who works at Ikes Granada Pier Bait and Tackle, is no stranger to fishing—but even seasoned anglers don’t land a double-digit tiger every day. It was a reminder that Florida’s coastline still holds plenty of surprises just beyond the breakers.
Source: Ormond Observer
🌼 Pollen Surge Signals Spring’s Sneaky Arrival
From the surf to the skies, the next story shifts inland—where Central Florida’s weather is stirring up a different kind of buzz.
In Orlando and across the region, a mix of warm afternoons in the mid-80s, cool mornings, rising humidity, and scattered pre-spring showers has created prime conditions for pollen production. The result? Allergy season has officially clocked in.
Tree pollen is currently the biggest culprit. Live oaks are releasing dense yellow-green clouds, pine pollen is dusting cars and patio furniture, and cypress continues to linger. As temperatures rise, Bermuda and Bahia grasses are also beginning their seasonal climb.
The pattern of rain followed by dry, breezy days is particularly potent. Rain fuels plant growth, and the dry air that follows helps pollen travel far and wide.
Common symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and fatigue. For some residents, prolonged exposure can aggravate asthma or lead to more severe sinus inflammation.
Experts recommend keeping windows closed on high-count days, checking daily pollen forecasts, showering after outdoor activities, and using HEPA filters indoors. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays can also help—though those with chronic conditions should consult a physician.
In short, spring may not be official yet, but your sinuses already know it’s coming.
Source: Mynews13
⚽ Seabreeze Soccer Programs Hit Reset
Meanwhile, on the athletic fields of Seabreeze High School, change is in the air.
Both the boys and girls soccer programs are searching for new leadership after a season that saw each team reach the state playoffs. Girls coach Eli Freidus stepped down after five seasons, while boys coach Alex Perez was let go after two.
Freidus leaves behind a strong legacy, compiling a 58-37-6 record and leading the girls to the playoffs every year of his tenure. The team claimed three Five Star Conference titles and three district championships, reaching the regional finals in both 2023 and 2024. After eight years as a head coach—three previously with the boys program—Freidus said he’s ready for a break and some well-earned travel time.
Perez’s departure came as a surprise to him. Over two seasons, he posted a 17-21-6 record and helped the boys secure a district championship this year despite a 7-9-5 overall record. A longtime supporter of the program, Perez previously assisted on the 2017 state championship team and coached locally for years.
Athletic Director Anthony Campanella said the school is seeking experienced leaders who can communicate well and build on Seabreeze’s storied soccer tradition. As one era closes, the Sandcrabs are focused squarely on what comes next.
Source: Ormond Observer
🏛️ Civic League Passes the Gavel for 2026
And finally, a leadership transition of a different kind took place at the Civic League of the Halifax Area’s 2026 Annual Meeting.
Held Jan. 17 at Oceanside Country Club, the event marked the end of Nancy Lohman’s two-year term as chair and the installation of incoming chair Chris Tolland. Lohman reflected on the organization’s 62-year legacy of steady civic engagement, while Tolland emphasized continued collaboration and strategic impact across the Halifax Area.
The evening also celebrated community achievement.
The Cici and Hyatt Brown Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Truman E. (Roy) Gailey for his longstanding leadership and service. The Beacon Award honored Tim Curtis for his significant positive impact on the region.
Both recipients spoke about the importance of civic stewardship and shared purpose—fitting themes for an organization dedicated to convening leaders and guiding thoughtful progress.
With a new board installed and a fresh chair at the helm, the Civic League appears poised to build on its strong foundation while looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of 2026.
Source: Ormond Observer
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NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm in
📅 Sunday, Feb 22, 2026
🛍️ Markets & Wellness
Kick off your Sunday morning with a free outdoor yoga session led by Renew Yoga Studio in the Rose Garden. Afterward, stroll the beautiful Riverfront Esplanade to browse over 45 local vendors, shop for fresh goods, and enjoy live music by Aaron Esposito.
Time: Yoga at 9:00 AM | Market from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Esplanade (179 S. Beach St), Downtown Daytona Beach
🏍️ Bike Week Pre-Parties
32nd Anniversary Antique & Custom Bike Show
The unofficial lead-up to Bike Week starts here! Head to the Beaver Bar for a massive community gathering featuring vintage, custom, and antique motorcycles. It is free to attend and offers a great preview of the bikes rolling into town.
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Beaver Bar (1105 N. US Highway 1), Ormond Beach
Diesel @ The Iron Horse Saloon
The "World Famous" Iron Horse Saloon is waking up for the motorcycle crowds. Grab a cold drink and catch a high-energy afternoon set from local rockers, Diesel.
Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Iron Horse Saloon (1068 N. US Highway 1), Ormond Beach
🏐 Sports & Conventions
Day two of this major AAU youth club volleyball tournament wraps up with playoff brackets and championships.
Time: All Day (AM and PM Waves)
Location: DME Academy (2441 Bellevue Ave), Daytona Beach
2026 Public Lands Alliance Convention
The Ocean Center transitions from quilts to conservation as it welcomes nonprofits, land management agencies, and companies for the opening day of this major national trade show.
Time: Opening Day (Runs through Feb 26)
Location: Ocean Center, Daytona Beach
Monday, Feb 23, 2026
🌿 Conventions & Environment
2026 Public Lands Alliance Convention & Trade Show
Day two of this major national event continues at the Ocean Center. Hundreds of nonprofits, land management agencies, and conservationists gather to discuss the preservation, funding, and public use of America's parks and forests.
Time: All Day
Location: Ocean Center, Daytona Beach
🏛️ Civic & City Business
Ormond Beach Special Magistrate Hearing
Local code enforcement and city ordinance matters are reviewed and ruled upon in this public hearing.
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Ormond Beach City Hall (Commission Chambers)
Ormond Beach Aviation Advisory Board
The board meets to discuss ongoing operations, noise mitigation, and developments at the Ormond Beach Municipal Airport.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Ormond Beach City Hall (Room 103)
Volusia County Cultural Council Meeting
The council gathers to review local grant applications and discuss strategies for promoting arts, history, and culture throughout the county.
Time: Morning (Check county agenda for exact hour)
Location: Check Volusia County website for specific meeting room
🧘 Wellness & Leisure
AumShanti Yoga: Living on the Breath
Start your week completely centered. This alignment-based yoga class focuses on breathwork and posture, held right on the oceanfront.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Rock Royalty Terrace)
Take advantage of the "calm before the storm." With the race crowds gone and the Bike Week crowds still a few days away, today is the absolute best time to rent a kayak and enjoy the quiet, pristine waters of the Tomoka River.
Time: 8:00 AM – Sundown
Location: North Beach St, Ormond Beach
🍽️ Dining & Nightlife
Grind Gastropub: Locals' Night
A Monday night tradition. Enjoy all-day Happy Hour pricing and a relaxed atmosphere as the locals reclaim their favorite spots for a few days.
Time: 11:30 AM – Close
Location: Grind Gastropub, Ormond Beach
A high-energy, music-based spin on the classic game. Listen to song clips, mark your card, and win prizes on the outdoor terrace.
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Sessions Terrace)
NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info.
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