NOTE: Sometimes Gmail will cutoff the end of the newsletter. You can always view online. Also if missing check the “Promotions’ and “Spam” folders and drag to inbox. 👇👇👇👇👇

Stories with ($) after the link may require third party subscription

Firefighters Scale 110 Flights in Full Gear to Commemorate 9/11 Victims

ixteen Ormond Beach firefighters, fully outfitted in their heavy gear, participated in a memorial stair climb on September 11 at the Marina Grande on the Halifax. The event, held annually, commemorates the lives lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, particularly the 343 firefighters who perished in the line of duty at the World Trade Center. Now in its 23rd year, the tradition serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders on that tragic day, with the firefighters climbing 110 flights, symbolizing the height of the Twin Towers. Sources within the department emphasized the importance of passing down this remembrance, especially as newer recruits, many of whom were born after 9/11, enter the fire service. The annual climb honors not only those who died but reinforces a shared commitment to preserving their legacy.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Retired Firefighter Accused of Sexual Assault on Unconscious Ambulance Patient

A former Flagler County Fire Rescue employee, James Melady, has been arrested on charges of sexual battery involving an unconscious patient in an ambulance. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office began investigating after Daytona Beach police discovered a video of the assault while probing Melady for an unrelated matter. The incident, which allegedly occurred in 2021 while Melady was on duty, remained unknown to the victim, who was unconscious at the time of the attack.

Melady, 37, retired earlier this year and is now facing charges of sexual battery on a helpless person and video voyeurism. As the investigation continues, deputies are urging anyone with information or potential victims to come forward by contacting the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office at 386-313-4911

Source: See Full Story at ClickOrlando

Saved By The Judge! Red Lobster Set for New Ownership and Leadership as It Exits Bankruptcy

Red Lobster announced it will soon emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection after a U.S. bankruptcy judge approved the company’s reorganization plan. The seafood chain, known for its affordable offerings and popular “endless shrimp” promotions, faced financial turmoil in recent years, posting a $76 million loss in 2023. The acquisition by a lender group led by asset manager Fortress will help stabilize the company. Since filing for bankruptcy in May, Red Lobster has closed dozens of locations, leaving it with 544 restaurants across North America.

Under the new structure, Red Lobster will continue as an independent company with Damola Adamolekun, former P.F. Chang’s CEO, taking over leadership. The acquisition deal, expected to close by the end of September, includes more than $60 million in new funding to support the chain’s recovery. Red Lobster has seen several ownership changes since its founding in 1968, with the most recent investor, Thai Union Group, departing earlier this year.

Source: See Full Story at WFTV9

Rubber Ducks Take Flight at Ormond Beach Elks Event, Raising Thousands for Charity

The Ormond Beach Elks Lodge 2193’s second annual Duck Drop raised nearly $10,000 on September 7, surpassing last year’s totals. A record 1,500 rubber ducks were dropped from a helicopter, raising $9,951 for various Elks charitable programs. Organizers added new features this year, including a dunk tank and expanded promotions, selling tickets for months in advance. Led by chairperson Deb Symington, the event included a raffle, cornhole games, and food provided by lodge volunteers.

Funds from the Duck Drop will be directed toward the Elks scholarship fund, the Harry Anna Trust, and the Elks National Foundation, with additional support for children’s therapy services. These services provide in-home physical and occupational therapy for children in need, with a focus on diagnosing and treating autism. The event highlighted the Elks’ ongoing commitment to supporting local communities through charitable initiatives and programs for children, veterans, and students.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Your Horoscope - View Online

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

😊😊😊😊😊 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.