⭐ Charlie Kirk Reaction, OBFD Honors, Flooding To Continue

Issue #681

12 Sep

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image: Turning Point USA

🕯️ Political Leaders React to Charlie Kirk’s Death

The political world was rocked this week by the tragic assassination of 31-year-old activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA and a vocal conservative advocate, was a well-known figure in college politics and a close ally of Donald Trump.

His death drew swift and heartfelt reactions from across Florida’s political spectrum. Leaders from both parties denounced the violence and expressed sorrow, many through social media. U.S. Senator Rick Scott called Kirk a “fellow patriot” and praised his passion for liberty and faith. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said Kirk’s “murder is a tragedy for our nation,” and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins emphasized that this was “not just an attack on a man — it was an attack on American principles.”

Local leaders like Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood echoed the broader concern over growing political violence. From Republicans to Democrats, the message was clear: political disagreements must never descend into bloodshed.

🧗 Honoring Heroes - Ormond Firefighters Climb in Tribute to 9/11

While national tensions rise, Ormond Beach firefighters reminded us of unity and courage with their annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Sixteen local firefighters suited up and climbed 110 flights — a symbolic recreation of the trek faced by first responders at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Held at Marina Grande on the Halifax, the event was led by Fire Capt. Hunter Ramirez, who emphasized the emotional weight of the tradition. “Three-hundred-forty-three people went into the building that day knowing there was a chance they may not come out,” he said. This solemn climb is meant to capture just a glimpse of the bravery shown that day.

The event is now a tradition in Ormond Beach, drawing attention to the sacrifices made not just on 9/11, but by first responders every day. It’s a poignant reminder that heroism often walks quietly among us — sometimes in fire gear, climbing stairs one step at a time.

🌊 King Tides + Daily Rain = Flooding Frustration in Volusia

And now, from dry land to very wet news: Volusia County is grappling with persistent flooding thanks to a combo of daily rainstorms and seasonal king tides. The stalled weather system is saturating the region, while the elevated tides are bottling up waterways like the Halifax River, Mosquito Lagoon, and Spruce Creek, preventing stormwater from flowing out as it should.

Officials are on alert. The county continues to clear canals, inspect pumps, and remove debris from drainage systems to avoid worsening conditions. Still, residents are encouraged to pitch in — clearing yard waste from storm drains and gutters can go a long way toward keeping water away from homes.

If you’ve noticed soggy lawns and rising puddles, you’re not alone. The weather isn’t expected to dry up soon, so stay vigilant and keep those grates clear — it’s a community effort.

Recent Arrests

  • Holly Hill Police Department

    • James Taylor Watson (36) – Arrested on 2025-09-03. Charge(s): Child abuse. Bail: $10,000.

  • Volusia County Sheriff’s Office

    • William Charles Smith (66) – Arrested on 2025-08-29. Charge(s): Possession of cocaine, principal to possession of paraphernalia. Bail: $2,500.

    • Rodney Dale Lane (49) – Arrested on 2025-08-29. Charge(s): Possession of a Schedule II substance, principal burglary of an unoccupied dwelling. Bail: Not set.

    • Kristina M. Funderburk (32) – Arrested on 2025-09-01. Charge(s): Uttering a forgery, grand theft. Bail: $10,000.

    • Cori Shane Jones (44) – Arrested on 2025-09-03. Charge(s): Possession of paraphernalia, tampering with evidence. Bail: $3,000.

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Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam

Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam

Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam

Ponce Inlet 180 degree Cam

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info

  Fri Sep 12

  • Event: 🎶 Veterans Lunch & Learn: Blacksmithing with Jeremy, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Interactive session combining history and craftsmanship with blacksmithing demonstrations.

  • Event: 🍷 Bula, Beats and Friends, All day (Sep 12 – Sep 13)
    Kava Culture Ormond Beach, 500 W Granada Blvd Ste 5, Ormond Beach
    Live music and community vibes at this popular kava spot.

  • Event: 🎤 The Three Mrs. Flaglers, 6:45 – 9:00 PM
    The Casements, 25 Riverside Dr, Ormond Beach
    Dramatic portrayal of the lives of Henry Flagler’s wives and their impact on Florida history.

  • Event: 🎤 Friday Karaoke at the OB with HARRYOKE!, 6:30 – 10:30 PM
    Ormond Beach Sports Corner Bar and Grill, 709 S Nova Rd, Ormond Beach
    Karaoke night hosted by the legendary HARRYOKE!

  • Event: 💍 Resin Jewelry Making Class, 5:30 – 7:30 PM
    The Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Learn how to craft your own resin jewelry in a fun, beachy setting.

  • Event: 🎸 Fall into the Blues Concert & Silent Auction, All day (Sep 12 – 13)
    Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
    Enjoy soulful blues music and bid in the silent auction supporting local causes.

 Sat Sep 13

  • Event: 🎨Mixed Media Crescent Moon Class, 11 AM – 1 PM
    The Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Create a crescent moon artwork using various materials and techniques.

  • Event: 🧵"Welcome" Sea Turtle Wall Hanging Paint Class, 11 AM – 1 PM
    The Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Paint a whimsical sea turtle wall hanging in a guided session.

  • Event: 🎾Ormond Beach All Girls Camp, 11 AM – 2 PM
    Ormond Beach Tennis Center, 38 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Fun-filled tennis activities exclusively for girls of all skill levels.

  • Event: 🧘Anxiety Breakthrough Blueprint Workshop Series, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    New Journey Chiropractic, 292 N Nova Rd, Ormond Beach
    Explore techniques to conquer anxiety and embrace mental clarity.

  • Event: 🎸Bradford Buckley, 5 – 8 PM
    Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill, 1900 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Live music with oceanfront views and good vibes.

  • Event: 🎤BEACHSIDE, 6:30 PM
    Salty D’s Beachside, 790 S Atlantic Ave, Ormond Beach
    An energetic live performance right by the beach.

  • Event: 🎶Aaron lightin, 7 – 10 PM
    Grind Gastropub & Kona Tiki Bar, 49 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy tropical tunes and laid-back energy at this lively spot.

  • Event: 🍷Live Music with Mark Chirico, 6 – 9 PM
    beach + vine, 1458 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Acoustic set paired with fine wine and beachside ambiance.

  • Event: 🎣Conservation and Fishing Seminar, 4 – 6 PM
    Backwater Provisions, 177 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Educational event focused on marine conservation and fishing tips.

  • Event: 📸Scrapbooking Club at FHCP Activity Center, 2 – 6 PM
    1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill, FL
    Bring your creativity and scrapbooking supplies for an afternoon of crafty fun.

  Sun Sep 14

  • Event: 🎸Are Friends Electric return Sunday Afternoon!, 1 – 5 PM
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach, FL
    Lively afternoon performance by Are Friends Electric, returning to energize your Sunday.

  • Event: 🎨Mixed Media Night Light or Suncatcher Class, 1 – 3 PM
    The Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Create a unique night light or suncatcher using mixed media in a fun and creative session.

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info.

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