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⭕ New State-of-the-Art Medical Examiner Facility Opens in Volusia County

Issue #085

New State-of-the-Art Medical Examiner Facility Opens in Volusia County

Courtesy Photo

Volusia County has inaugurated its new Medical Examiner Facility, a project with an investment of $18.4 million, marking a significant enhancement in the county's forensic and public health capabilities. The state-of-the-art facility is equipped with advanced technologies, including modern autopsy stations, disaster response capabilities, a comprehensive building automation system, and robust security features, all aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of death investigations.

A notable addition to the facility is the Lodox digital X-ray machine, which provides comprehensive radiographic images, significantly improving the accuracy of investigations. The 20,000-square-foot building is also designed to facilitate educational opportunities for local entities such as law enforcement, emergency services, hospitals, and universities. It includes a dedicated meeting room for private interactions between staff and grieving families.

The facility's advanced features are instrumental in the county's pursuit of accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners, a goal that was unattainable with the previous building. Sources, including Chief Medical Examiner Dr. James Fulcher, have expressed optimism about the facility's long-term impact on the county, emphasizing its role in justice and education in medical examination. Contact Heather Belden at 386-747-6344 or [email protected]g for more information.

Ormond Beach's Own Brian Kelley Set for Keynote and Performance at Daytona Chamber Event

Brian Kelley, a Nashville recording artist originally from Ormond Beach, is set to perform at the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce's 104th Annual Meeting at the Daytona International Speedway on February 2. Kelley, formerly of Florida Georgia Line, will serve as the keynote speaker and conclude his talk with a 30-minute acoustic performance, featuring songs from his upcoming solo album.

The Chamber, with CEO Nancy Keefer expressing excitement, looks forward to Kelley's discussion on his business endeavors and musical journey, influenced by his upbringing in Volusia County. His keynote address, in a fireside chat format with Mike Sibley, will explore his entrepreneurial spirit and local inspirations.

Kelley's deep ties to the area, being the son of former Volusia County Chair and Ormond Beach Mayor Ed Kelley and his wife Mary Margaret, add a personal touch to his music, which often draws from his experiences in the county. His performance is anticipated to be a special highlight for attendees, offering a glimpse into his new artistic direction as a solo artist.

DeSantis Bows Out of GOP Presidential Race, Pledges Support to Trump

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination, citing a lack of a clear path to victory. Despite this, his name will remain on the Florida ballot for the upcoming primary. The decision to suspend the campaign was announced on X, following a period of reflection after DeSantis secured second place in the Iowa Caucus.

DeSantis has endorsed former President Donald Trump, distancing himself from Nikki Haley, whom he criticizes as representing an outdated Republican approach. His campaign faced numerous challenges, including a problematic launch, difficulty in differentiating himself in a crowded field, and a general perception of lacking charisma. These factors, coupled with strong voter support for Trump, were evident in polling and the Iowa Caucus results.

With DeSantis' withdrawal, the Republican primary race is now primarily between Trump and Haley. DeSantis' name will still appear on the Florida ballot due to the timing of the state's ballot preparation process. Meanwhile, DeSantis will turn his attention back to his responsibilities as governor, with two years left in his current term.

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Authentic Texas Flavors Arrive at Ormond-by-the-Sea with Lottie Bell's BBQ

Credit: Lottie Bell’s Facebook Page

Ormond-by-the-Sea has welcomed a new culinary destination, Lottie Bell's BBQ, bringing the authentic flavors of Texas barbecue to the Florida coast. The restaurant, which opened its doors in early December 2023, is the brainchild of co-owners Brandell Campbell and Scotty Aycock.

The journey to Lottie Bell's BBQ began with a food truck launched by Campbell in 2020. Over time, the truck garnered a loyal local following, serving as a meeting point for community members and a place for forging lasting friendships. Among the regulars was Aycock, who shared Campbell's fervor for cooking and, more specifically, barbecue. Their bond, akin to brotherhood, laid the foundation for their joint venture.

Credit: Lottie Bell’s Facebook Page

The opportunity to establish Lottie Bell's BBQ emerged last summer when Campbell noticed the availability of a space formerly occupied by Salty Farms Seafood Market and Restaurant. For both Campbell, a Texas native with 35 years of barbecue experience, and Aycock, a Georgian who has barbecued most of his life, the venture marked a transition from hobby to profession.

Their commitment to authenticity extends to the use of mesquite wood sourced directly from Texas for smoking their meats, a choice that sets them apart in the local culinary scene. Lottie Bell's BBQ prides itself on its natural flavors, serving meats without sauce to ensure nothing is overpowered.

Credit: Lottie Bell’s Facebook Page

The restaurant's name is a tribute to Campbell's grandmother, Lottie Bell, a woman of Blackfoot Native American descent, known for her hospitality and insistence that no one left her house hungry. Campbell's granddaughter also carries the name Lottie Bell, continuing the family legacy.

Lottie Bell's BBQ, with its commitment to a homely and peaceful dining experience, is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering a range of smoked meats including brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.

Lottie Bell’s BBQ is located at 1452 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond-by-the-Sea, in the former Salty Farms Location. You can reach them at 386-301-5333 or “[email protected]”. Please mention Ormond Local Pulse when you call!!

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