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Ormond Public Library, 30 S. Beach St. Ormond Beach
8am - 6pm thru November 2

Monday SpaceX Launch Delayed, Rescheduled for Tonight.

SpaceX's planned rocket launch, originally set for Monday, Oct. 21, has been delayed, with a rescheduled launch possible for Tuesday, Oct. 22. No reason for the delay was provided. Weather conditions and visibility will be key factors in determining whether the Volusia County region can witness the launch. The upcoming mission is significant, as it will mark the 72nd Florida launch of 2024, potentially surpassing last year’s record of 72 launches.

If weather permits, the launch will take place between 6:14 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with Starlink broadband satellites being deployed into low-Earth orbit. Those interested in viewing are encouraged to head to popular spots such as New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, or Ormond Beach for a chance to witness the spectacle.

Source: More Information at FloridaToday

Development poll results

Due to the number of comments on this issue we have placed them on a separate page. This certainly is “Hot Button Issue”!. Click Here For Comments

OPINION ARTICLE
By Jeff Boyle, former Ormond Beach City Commissioner

Summary:
The Volusia County Council has approved a significant extension of Hand Avenue from Ormond Beach, including bridge construction over Interstate 95 and the Tomoka River, to connect with the Avalon Park development in Daytona Beach. The project, expected to cost more than $100 million, will facilitate access to nearly 8,000 new homes and extensive commercial space.

Critics argue that the road will do little to alleviate local traffic, with the benefits largely serving Avalon Park residents, while environmental concerns over damage to wetlands and the Tomoka River persist. The Tomoka River, a designated Florida Outstanding Waterway, faces potential threats from the development, leading some to question the project’s long-term impact on the region.

The county’s decision to approve the project without a cost estimate or complete funding plan has raised concerns, with many residents questioning the prioritization of developer interests over local infrastructure needs.

See Full Opinion Article at Ormond Observer

Sugar Mill Plantation Cancels Halloween Due to Hurricane Milton Damage

The long-standing Halloween trick-or-treating tradition at Sugar Mill Plantation in Flagler Beach has been canceled for the first time in over 25 years due to damage from Hurricane Milton. The event, which typically attracts more than 2,000 parents and children, was called off after the subdivision’s homeowners association cited concerns over safety. The hurricane left streets littered with debris, some as high as cars, and many streetlights are not functioning, creating a hazardous environment.

Known for offering a safe space for trick-or-treaters, Sugar Mill Plantation's Halloween celebration has become a beloved event. However, the community’s homeowners association expressed sadness over the cancellation, stating that the extent of damage left them no choice but to prioritize safety.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

FTC’s Ban on Fake Online Reviews Takes Effect, Targeting Deceptive Practices

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) new rule banning fake online reviews has come into effect, allowing the agency to impose civil penalties on those who knowingly sell, buy, or create fraudulent reviews. The rule, issued in August, aims to protect consumers from deceptive practices and promote fair competition in the marketplace. FTC Chair Lina Khan noted that fake reviews not only mislead consumers but also harm honest businesses.

The regulation specifically targets reviews attributed to non-existent individuals or artificial intelligence, as well as those written by people without real experience with the product or service. It also bans businesses from creating, purchasing, or distributing fake reviews, with penalties for those who violate the rule.

Consumers can report instances of fake reviews to the FTC through its online fraud reporting portal: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Source: See Full Story at ClickOrlando

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