⭐ Volusia County Schools Crack Down on Vaping

Issue #225

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13 Jun

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Today’s Forecast

7 Day Forecast

Volusia's Aggressive Measures Lead to Surge in Vaping Disciplinary Actions

Volusia County Schools reported a significant increase in vaping-related referrals, with 521 cases from January to March, up 80% from last year. This rise follows the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy on vaping. Superintendent Carmen Balgobin led a robust response involving vape detectors, educational campaigns, and collaborations with law enforcement to deter sales to minors. The district's approach contrasts with neighboring counties, where referrals were considerably lower. During a school board workshop, officials stressed the importance of education alongside discipline to combat the vaping issue among students, with plans to expand educational efforts to elementary levels and to hold sellers accountable. (Ormond Observer)

Volusia County Sheriff Gets Tough on Sex Offenders in Internet Sting Operation

In the recently concluded 'Operation Creep Sweep', the Volusia Sheriff's Office arrested twelve individuals, several of whom were previously convicted sex offenders. This operation, part of a concerted effort with agencies like the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the State Attorney of the 7th Circuit, focused on habitual offenders using the internet for illegal activities. Arrests included charges such as unlawful solicitation of minors and failure to register online profiles according to sex offender laws. Notably, Brian Eckelbecker and Patrick Fulton from Holly Hill, along with Ervin Jones from Ormond Beach, were among those apprehended for failing to comply with registration requirements. Most arrestees are still detained at Volusia County Branch Jail. (Volusia County Sheriff)

Holly Hill Names New Police Chief Amid Department Scandal

//Photo: Daytona Beach Police Department

Byron K. Williams has been named the new police chief of Holly Hill, following a nationwide search initiated due to a scandal involving the former chief and other top officials. Williams, previously a captain in the Daytona Beach Police Department, brings over two decades of experience and a strong community engagement ethos to his new role, starting July 15. 

His appointment comes after the resignation of the previous chief and a captain, and the suspension of two sergeants, linked to undisclosed "inappropriate incidents." These events triggered an internal investigation by the Volusia Sheriff's Office, with further scrutiny from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Williams's hiring is part of the city's effort to restore stability and integrity to the beleaguered department. (Daytona News-Journal)

Ormond Beach's Political Landscape Shifts with Upcoming City Commission Election

Ormond Beach's 2024 City Commission election features seven candidates vying for five seats. Incumbent Mayor Bill Partington is stepping down to run for the Florida House, leaving the mayoral race to Susan Persis and Jason Leslie. Persis, a seasoned commissioner with significant educational background, has raised over $97,000, while Leslie, a local businessman, has nearly $39,000 in campaign funds. Zone 3 will see a contest between Barbara Bonarrigo and Kristin Deaton, both experienced in local governance and community service. Other commission seats have incumbents Lori Tolland, Travis Sargent, and Harold Briley running unopposed as of now. The primary election is scheduled for August 20, with the general election to follow on November 5. (Ormond Observer)

Chicken, Avocado and Mango Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • ¼ cup water

  • 1/2 cup lime juice

  • ½ cup chili garlic sauce

  • 4 cups shredded, cooked chicken

  • 2 medium mangos - peeled, seeded and diced

  • 2 avocados - peeled, pitted and diced

  • 1 (10 ounce) package spring lettuce mix

Directions

1) In a saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the brown sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then pour into a medium bowl. Stir in the garlic chili sauce and lime juice. Set the dressing aside.

2) In a large bowl, toss together the chicken, mangos and avocados. Arrange the spring salad mix on serving plates, then top with a few spoonfuls of the chicken mixture. Pour dressing over the top. (Courtesy Allrecipes.com)

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