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Ormond Beach’s MLK Celebration Revives Tradition of Hope and Unity

Ormond Beach marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day with its first community-focused celebration since 2020, gathering residents at the South Ormond Neighborhood Center on Jan. 20. The event, themed “Lighting the Path of Equality: Together as One,” featured prayers, poetry, and vibrant performances by local groups, including the Ormond Beach Elementary dance team. A recitation of King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech added a reflective tone to the morning.

Attendees enjoyed a complimentary breakfast, served by Omega Psi Phi fraternity members, while the MLK Committee honored the late Don Gooding, a longtime contributor to the event. His widow, Dalecia Gooding, accepted the Heart of Dedication award on his behalf.

City Commissioner Lori Tolland presented a proclamation and shared personal reflections on the enduring impact of King’s legacy. The event highlighted the power of community and the ongoing mission to advance justice and equality.

Source:  See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Residents Invited to Shape Hurricane Milton Recovery Efforts

Volusia County will host a series of public hearings to discuss the use of $133.5 million in federal disaster relief funds provided for Hurricane Milton recovery. Residents can attend one of four local meetings between Jan. 23 and Jan. 29 to learn about the funds, share their input, and engage with county officials. Locations include libraries in New Smyrna Beach, Deltona, and Daytona Beach, as well as Pictona at Holly Hill.

A key public hearing is scheduled for Feb. 6 at the County Council Chambers in DeLand, where officials will present recovery plans and accept additional feedback. Details on a second hearing are pending.

Residents are also encouraged to participate in an unmet needs survey to identify community priorities. The survey is open to those affected by Hurricane Milton and others with recovery-related needs. This input will help shape how the county allocates the funds for long-term recovery efforts.

Source: See Full Story At News Daytona Beach

Trump’s Sweeping Jan. 6 Pardons Ignite Political Firestorm

On his Inauguration Day, President Donald Trump pardoned nearly 1,500 individuals charged in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, fulfilling a campaign promise that has sparked fierce criticism. The sweeping clemency included both nonviolent offenders and individuals convicted of assaulting law enforcement, such as Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes and Proud Boys member Dominic Pezzola. Critics, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have condemned the move as undermining justice and dishonoring those who defended the Capitol.

The Department of Justice had reported that over 1,270 individuals were convicted in connection to the riot, with hundreds admitting to violent acts. While Trump previously suggested only nonviolent offenders would receive pardons, his mass clemency included leaders of militant groups and those convicted of using deadly weapons against police.

Trump, who has long referred to the defendants as “political prisoners,” has reignited partisan divisions with his unprecedented move, drawing sharp rebukes from legal experts and political opponents.

What is the difference between clemency and a full pardon?

A pardon is a complete forgiveness for a federal crime. It removes all legal consequences of the conviction, including penalties such as prison time, fines, or restrictions. Whereas, clemency is an umbrella term that encompasses various forms of mercy, including pardons, commutations, and other reductions of penalties. It reflects compassion or recognition of mitigating circumstances.

Source: See Full Story at Daytona News-Journal

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