• Ormond Local Pulse
  • Posts
  • ⭐Golf Course Revival Bid, Water Shortage Warnings, Volusia County To Support Pace Girls

⭐Golf Course Revival Bid, Water Shortage Warnings, Volusia County To Support Pace Girls

Issue #923

15 May

Note: 👉👉👉 You can always READ ONLINE

+

Today’s Forecast

Tropical Update
The Tropical Update Has Been Suspended For The Season Unless Something Develops

Swipe image left for more daily forecasts

⛳ Community Push to Reopen River Bend Golf Course

A group of Ormond Beach residents is making it clear: they’re not ready to give up on River Bend Golf Course.

Roughly 40 residents gathered on May 12 outside the shuttered 172-acre property to advocate for its reopening as a municipal course. Many supporters live in nearby Bear Creek Village, a 55-and-up community that once enjoyed easy access to the fairways. Since the course closed in December 2020 following its operator’s bankruptcy, neighbors have been urging the city to reconsider its future.

Advocates like Sheila Lind say interest in reviving the course runs deeper than city officials may realize. Retirees who moved to the area during the pandemic had expected the course to reopen. Instead, the property’s fate has been tied up in FAA compliance requirements related to airport land use. City officials say updates to the airport master plan must come first before nonaeronautical uses — including golf — can move forward.

Financial considerations also loom large, including prior lease revenue limitations and a recent tax ruling requiring the city to pay more than $377,000 in unpaid property taxes.

Still, supporters argue demand for golf remains strong and believe a renovated course could generate meaningful revenue. A community reunion event later this month aims to rally even more backing.

💧 Phase III Water Shortage Declared in Volusia and Flagler

Meanwhile, Mother Nature is forcing residents to tighten the tap.

The St. Johns River Water Management District has placed Volusia and Flagler counties under a Phase III Extreme Water Shortage following months of low rainfall and declining groundwater levels. The declaration brings mandatory restrictions aimed at conserving dwindling supplies.

Under the new rules, landscape irrigation is limited to one day per week for residential and commercial properties. Golf course fairways face the same once-weekly limit. Irrigation is prohibited between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., aesthetic water uses are banned, and certain non-essential uses by commercial and industrial operations must be suspended.

The region would need more than 26 inches of rainfall over the next three months to meaningfully ease drought conditions — a tall order during what has already been described as one of the most severe drought periods in decades. Climate experts point to La Niña weather patterns and rising temperatures as key contributors, intensifying evaporation and reducing storm activity across the southern U.S.

Beyond inconvenience, officials warn of heightened wildfire risk. Florida has already recorded nearly 2,000 wildfires in 2026 alone, underscoring the urgency behind conservation efforts.

🎓 Schools Step In as Pace Center Closes

As one chapter closes for a longtime nonprofit, local educators are working to ensure students don’t miss a step.

Following the announced June 26 closure of the Pace Center for Girls Volusia-Flagler in Ormond Beach, Volusia County Schools is coordinating individualized transition plans for affected students. Pace has served girls in Volusia and Flagler counties for 30 years, offering counseling, advocacy, and academic support aimed at helping them earn high school diplomas.

Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin emphasized that the district is taking a proactive approach. Students will meet with school principals over the summer, tour their new campuses, and participate in one-on-one counseling sessions before the new school year begins.

District leaders say the goal is simple: no student should walk into a new school without a support system already in place. While the physical Pace center will close, the organization plans to launch a new “Pace Reach Program” this fall, focusing on therapeutic services and early intervention.

For families navigating the transition, school officials say the message is clear — support remains steady, even as circumstances change.

Recent Arrests

Holly Hill Police Department

  • Alyssa Butler, 25, Holly Hill— arrested May 2; agg. assault with deadly weapon without intent to kill. Bail: not set.

  • Devin Ahmed Persaud, 20, Holly Hill— arrested May 5; burglary of unoccupied structure, grand theft firearm. Bail: $35,000.

Volusia County Sheriff’s Office

  • Michael Andrew Kelsey, 45, Ormond Beach— arrested May 2; trafficking meth, drug equip. possession/use. Bail: $500.

  • Malcolm Bishop Brit Pickle, 36, Ormond Beach— arrested May 3; domestic battery by strangulation, agg. assault with deadly weapon without intent to kill, child abuse. Bail: not set.

  • Richie C. Holt, 38, Holly Hill— arrested May 4; DWLS. Bail: not set.

  • Brittney Danelle Nesbitt, 36, Ormond Beach— arrested May 5; controlled substance possession, drug equip. possession/use. Bail: $3,000.

  • Bruce Cameron Hart, 73, Ormond Beach— arrested May 5; possession of cocaine, drug equip. possession/use. Bail: $3,000.

  • Chic Joshua Sterling, 72, Holly Hill— arrested May 5; FTA offender registration. Bail: not set.

  • Eli Rickey Gene Mays, 32, Ormond Beach— arrested May 6; controlled substance possession, drug equip. possession/use. Bail: $7,750.

  • Lisa Marie Bell, 35, Holly Hill— arrested May 6; controlled substance possession, drug equip. possession/use. Bail: not set.

  • Aaron Gregory Erksen, 52, Ormond Beach— arrested May 7; theft of merchandise from farm transit, 2+ prior theft convictions, cocaine possession. Bail: not set.

NOTE: This report lists arrests only, not convictions, from publicly available information, All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

J and J Gutters and Roofing

J & J Gutters & Roofing has been part of the Ormond Beach home-improvement landscape for three decades—and their story is exactly what many homeowners hope to find: a local, family-built company that still believes the best marketing is doing the job right.

The business was founded in 1995 by Joe Juhasz’s father, and Joe has been around it since he was a teenager. He began working in the company at about 15, learning the trade hands-on, and over the years he and his wife, Nikki, have stepped into the day-to-day leadership of the operation. That long runway matters. In an industry where trust can feel hard to come by, J & J’s staying power is one of the clearest signals that they’ve built their name the old-fashioned way—through consistency, craftsmanship, and follow-through.

Originally known for seamless gutters, the company grew steadily into related exterior systems: soffit, fascia, and screen rooms—core components that protect a home from Florida’s sun, storms, and heavy runoff. As demand expanded, so did their capabilities. After obtaining a roofing license, the business added roofing services across major roof types including shingle, tile, and metal. Today, as a licensed general contractor as well, they also handle comprehensive exterior work, supported by a general contracting background in the family—work that can range from siding projects to major remodels, and even full home construction.

What really stands out is how they approach reputation. Joe says most of their work comes from word-of-mouth referrals and repeat relationships with other contractors who bring them larger projects—an earned position that only happens when you consistently deliver. And when things aren’t perfect, their philosophy is simple: Make It Right. They noted that small fixes or simple add-ons are often handled without nickel-and-diming the customer, and if something needs attention, they stand behind their work with strong workmanship warranties—typically five years on most items and up to ten years on some.

Their most in-demand service right now? Standing seam metal roofing. With their own on-site panel machine, they can produce roof panels right at the job, and they’ve seen many homeowners switch from asphalt shingles to standing seam for longevity and leak resistance—often as a proactive move in response to insurance pressure on older shingle roofs.

Joe Juhasz - Owner

For homeowners, Joe’s guidance is practical: work with a licensed and insured contractor, and choose someone who looks at the whole “water management system”—roofing, soffit, fascia, and gutters—because protecting your home starts with where the water goes.

You can contact Joe for an estimate on your requirements at J & J Gutters & Roofing — (386) 673-1241 or jandjgutters.net

Fire and EMS Calls

All transcripts, headlines, and summaries are automatically generated by AI from live dispatch audio. These alerts are not an official report. Alerts are based on unconfirmed dispatch communications that may change as situations develop. Review the original audio and verify details with official sources before relying on this information

GET YOUR VIP PASS

Receive Special News Notifications, Special Community Events, etc.

BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Get your on VIP pass for your group.
 Click here for more information

⭐⭐Local Business Directory⭐⭐
Please Patronize Your Local Businesses!

Check out these proven AI prompts for Local Businesses

Looking for a Great Place To Eat?

Click Image

⭐ Today's Meme ⭐

Great Voucher Dealz

Digital coupons & vouchers for local businesses and their services.
Visit the Dealz page and get a great deal.

Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam

Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam

Ponce Inlet 180 degree Cam

Events for Friday, May 15, 2026

Ormond Beach

  • Event: 🥗Veterans Lunch & Learn, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Ormond Beach
    Chamber of Commerce, 165 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
     A community focused event providing veterans with resources, networking opportunities, and a guest speaker session over a catered lunch.

  • Event: 🖼️Tradewinds: Seabreeze High Student Exhibition, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Support the local art scene by viewing this annual showcase of diverse and creative works from Seabreeze High School’s talented student body.

Holly Hill

  • Event: 🏓AdventHealth MarComm Pickleball Event, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
    While the tournament and classes are currently sold out, spectators are welcome to visit the world-class facility to watch the competition and enjoy the atmosphere at Pictona’s Championship Court.

  • Event: 🎤Esh x Schief: The HARD DECK, 7:00 PM
    Double Barrel Grill, 1208 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
    A high-energy live music performance featuring local favorites Esh x Schief. This venue offers a classic grill menu and a relaxed outdoor seating area perfect for a Friday night out.

  • Event: 🎸Jay Sandifer Music and Art: Praise -n- Worship, 7:00 PM
    Worship Arts Studio, 1144 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
    A unique blend of live musical worship and prophetic intercession, this three-hour session is designed for those seeking a spiritual and creative atmosphere.

Daytona Beach

  • Event: 🧺Riverfront Market, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    Riverfront Shops (Beach Street), S Beach St, Daytona Beach
    Part of "Downtown Daytona Nights," this monthly market features local artisans, fresh produce, and food trucks. It’s a great way to kick off the weekend while exploring the historic downtown shops.

  • Event: 🤘Rock the Beach Tribute Series, 7:00 PM

    Hard Rock Hotel (Avalon Ballroom), 918 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach
    The massive 40-show tribute series continues with a high-production rock tribute. It’s a perfect alternative for those wanting a concert experience without the festival crowds.

  • Event: ⚾Daytona Tortugas vs. Clearwater Threshers, 7:05 PM
    Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 E Orange Ave, Daytona Beach
    Friday night baseball at the "Jack" typically features themed promotions and post-game fireworks, making it a staple for family entertainment in Daytona.

Events for Saturday, May 16, 2026

Ormond Beach

  • Event: 🖼️Tradewinds: Seabreeze High Student Exhibition, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach Support local youth art in the main galleries. This exhibition features a wide array of mediums from the talented students at Seabreeze High School.

  • Event: 🎨Quiet Light: The Art of Sara Pedigo, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach Located in the reception gallery, this exhibition explores light and domesticity through Pedigo's evocative paintings. It's a great companion to a stroll through the museum's gardens.

  • Event: 🎶Mary Kate Brennan Live, 7:00 PM The OB Bev House + Scratch Kitchen, 118 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach An evening of live music in a cozy, local setting. Perfect for dinner and drinks while enjoying a performance by this touring artist.

Holly Hill

  • Event: 🏓Open Play Pickleball, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill Saturday is prime time for open play at Pictona. With 49 courts available, it's the ideal spot for social matches and seeing why Holly Hill has become a national pickleball hub.

  • Event: ✨Sparkles and Spurs: The Links, Inc., 4:00 PM Forever Ranch (Nearby/Holly Hill Area), 3600 Sipes Ln, Ormond Beach/Holly Hill Area A community fundraiser hosted by the Daytona Beach (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. This "Sparkles and Spurs" themed event typically includes dinner, music, and networking for a cause.

Daytona Beach

  • Event: 🌎Daytona Beach International Festival, 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Manatee Island / Riverfront Shops, S Beach St, Daytona Beach Celebrate global cultures with live music, dance performances, and international food vendors. This free festival is a vibrant community staple held along the Halifax River.

  • Event: 🕺The Magic of Motown, 7:30 PM Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd, Daytona Beach A high-energy musical journey through the hits of Motown. Expect incredible vocals and choreography celebrating the music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations.

  • Event: ⚾Daytona Tortugas vs. Clearwater Threshers, 7:05 PM Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 E Orange Ave, Daytona Beach Minor league baseball at the historic "Jack." Saturday nights often feature special fan giveaways or themed nights, making it a great outdoor option for families.

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info.

Do you have an event you’d like to have posted? Submit Your Event Here. OR scan the QR Code below

Scan for event form

Our goal is to provide Ormond Beach readers with news that's relevant to our area. The BIG news sources don't always reach to the "micro-level", so we need your help! We welcome your input for news of local happenings that would be of interest to Ormond readers. Neighborhood news, events, etc., are all welcome. Got photos? Great! If you fancy yourself a writer we'd welcome your participation.

You can enter event information on this form, or for important, urgent news items feel free to text us at 386-444-2002 or email [email protected] with information about your news. We will get back to you for details.

We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

We ❤️ Local Businesses!


Our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Ormond Local Pulse" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Ormond Beach together!

⭐ Own a local business? ⭐
⭐ We WANT to spotlight YOUR business!! ⭐

❤️ Love a local business? Nominate them.

We could use your help!

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!
One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.
Know somebody who lives in the Ormond Beach, Ormond-By-The-Sea, or Holly Hill areas that would benefit from being kept in the know?

Do you fancy yourself a writer? We’d love to feature articles from our neighbors and readers. If you’d like to contribute let us know HERE

Please share Ormond Local Pulse with your friends! Have them scan the QR code or send them the link below.. 👇👇👇👇

😊😊😊😊😊 Have A Great Day

TECH NOTE: Some readers using the Edge browser have reported getting warning messages that they are attempting to access an unsafe site. This is a glitch in the Edge browser. If you switch to Chrome, Firefox or Safari you should have no problems. Rest assured our site IS SAFE
OUR NEWS POLICY: Our goal is to provide synopses of locally relevant news and articles for Ormond residents. This may include local issues, county and state news affecting Ormond Beach, and other matters such as health, technology, pets, etc.. We hope to provide something of interest to all readers. We welcome your feedback here

1 

Reply

or to participate.