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Ormond Beach Honors Arbor Day with Community Tree Planting

Ormond Beach celebrated Florida Arbor Day on January 17 with tree-planting ceremonies at the Environmental Discovery Center and Rockefeller Gardens, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship. Four trees—a live oak and two Italian cypresses at Rockefeller Gardens and a live oak at the Environmental Discovery Center—were planted as part of the day’s activities.

The Italian cypresses were donated by the Ormond Beach Garden Club to replace trees lost in a hurricane, while the live oak planting was part of a $10,000 donation from the Ormond Beach Kiwanis Club to enhance the city’s natural spaces, including the Scenic Loop and Trail.

Local leaders and community members emphasized the significance of Arbor Day in fostering environmental awareness and creating a legacy for future generations. The ceremonies highlighted the city’s ongoing dedication to preserving its green spaces and promoting sustainability through community partnerships.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Florida Lawmaker Moves to Repeal School Start Time Mandate

A bill to repeal Florida’s 2023 school start time law has been filed by State Senator Jennifer Bradley, sparking debate over balancing student well-being and logistical concerns. The current law, set to take effect by July 2026, requires middle schools to begin no earlier than 8 a.m. and high schools no earlier than 8:30 a.m.

Proponents of the law cite research showing later start times improve adolescent health and academic performance. However, rural school districts and small communities have raised objections, highlighting challenges in adapting bus schedules and potential safety risks for younger students waiting in early morning darkness.

The Small School District Council Consortium is urging lawmakers to consider flexibility or waivers for districts where compliance proves problematic. Senator Bradley’s proposal will be reviewed during the legislative session beginning March 4, reigniting debate over the feasibility and benefits of the delayed start-time mandate.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Sheriff’s Office Launches GPS Tracker Program for Families of Autistic Children

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is introducing GPS trackers to improve the safety of autistic children following a series of drowning incidents last year. Partnering with AngelSense, a company specializing in wearable GPS devices, the initiative provides families with tools to monitor their children’s whereabouts and communicate during emergencies.

The device, designed to prevent removal by children, connects to satellites and transmits location data through WiFi. It also includes a two-way voice feature, allowing caregivers to speak directly to the child or people nearby if needed. Sheriff Mike Chitwood presented the technology to families on Friday, offering a free one-year subscription to AngelSense for selected recipients.

For guardians like a Port Orange grandmother caring for her 9-year-old autistic grandson, the tracker offers much-needed peace of mind. At an annual cost of $500, the Sheriff’s Office hopes this technology will prevent further tragedies and save lives.

Source: See Full Story at MyNews13

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