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⭐ State of The City, Local Bot Winner, "No Kings" & Bikes, Marineland's Future

Issue #714

15 Oct

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🏙️ ‘It All Starts Here - Mayor Leslie Highlights Community Spirit

Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie delivered his inaugural State of the City address with a fitting theme: “It all starts here.” Joined by civic leaders, business owners, and residents at the Oceanside Country Club, Leslie reflected on the city's recent achievements and emphasized the collaborative spirit driving its success.

Economic highlights included the completion of Runway Drive at the Airport Business Park, funded by the Florida Job Growth grant program, and the upcoming Ormond Crossings development. Public safety upgrades featured the addition of new officers and the implementation of Live 911, a real-time emergency call system. Major infrastructure projects like the Airport Road water main extension and the $2.1 million Fleming Avenue stormwater pump are also in the works.

Cassen Park’s facelift—complete with new amenities—earned praise, as did the city’s Downtown Master Arts Plan and mural program, all showcasing Ormond’s dedication to blending charm with progress.

The mayor also recognized five outstanding locals with the Award of Civic Engagement:

  • Becky Parker, Ormond MainStreet

  • Dwight Durant, Zev Cohen & Associates

  • Judith Stein, Ormond Beach Arts District

  • Kevin Wakefield, local restaurateur

  • Lewis Heaster, Heaster Family Properties

🤖 Student Bots Battle for Bragging Rights at VMA Robot Brawl

The sparks were flying—literally—at the sixth annual VMA Robot Brawl held at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where 76 student-built robots clashed in a single-elimination showdown across three weight classes: 1-pound, 3-pound, and 15-pound.

This year’s youngest star was 5-year-old Jack Servi from Ormond-by-the-Sea, who claimed first place in the 1-pound division with his bot Flat Head. Jack, a kindergartener at Ormond Beach Elementary, caught the robot bug after watching last year’s event and trained remotely with Jacob Rogers of Drop Kick Dojo in Jacksonville.

Here’s the full roster of student engineering champions:

1-pound division:
🥇 Flat Head – Jack Servi (Drop Kick Dojo)
🥈 Star Destroyer – DeBary Elementary
🥉 Spinner 2.0 – Spruce Creek Elementary

3-pound division:
🥇 Absolution – DeLand High School
🥈 Rapture – DeLand High School
🥉 Ryan, Jr. – DeLand High School

15-pound division:
🥇 Billy Drizz – DeLand High School
🥈 The Forklift – T. DeWitt Taylor Middle-High School
🥉 The Ramp – T. DeWitt Taylor Middle-High School

The event, sponsored by the Volusia Manufacturers Association, awarded up to $1,000 in cash prizes and featured a demo by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, showcasing one of their operational field robots.

🏍️ Protest Meets Party in Daytona’s Biketoberfest Weekend

As 100,000 bikers rev up for Daytona’s 33rd annual Biketoberfest (Oct. 16–19), another crowd is set to gather for very different reasons. The nationally organized “No Kings” protest—opposing President Trump and related policies—is expected to draw around 3,000 demonstrators on Saturday, Oct. 18.

In Daytona Beach, protestors will meet outside City Hall from 9:30–11:30 a.m., just two miles from the heart of Biketoberfest. A simultaneous protest in Ormond Beach will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the west side foot of the Granada Boulevard Bridge. Despite the proximity, organizers and city officials expect the events to remain peaceful and separate.

“The Daytona Beach Police Department has extensive experience managing large crowds and special events,” said City Manager Deric Feacher. "We don’t anticipate any major issues."

Biketoberfest will continue as planned, with festivities including live entertainment, scenic rides, and motorcycle shows drawing visitors from around the globe.

🐬 Marineland’s Future Unknown After Surprise $7.1M Sale

Marineland Dolphin Adventure, the iconic marine park straddling Flagler and St. Johns counties, has a new mystery owner. The 6-acre site was sold at auction for $7.1 million to Delightful Development LLC, outbidding Hutson Companies, which had offered $3.5 million.

Little is known about Delightful Development, whose name was the only information disclosed in court documents. The sale must still be approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Wilmington, Delaware, with a hearing set for Oct. 27.

Founded in 1938 as the world’s first oceanarium, Marineland has seen its share of ups and downs, most recently due to financial woes, declining attendance, and criticism over animal welfare. Its parent company, The Dolphin Company, filed for bankruptcy in March. Sister park Gulf World in Panama City also changed hands this month for $4.5 million.

While the future of the dolphins and interactive programs remains uncertain, one thing is clear—big changes are on the horizon for this historic Florida attraction.

Recent Deaths

“Ceviche28” Brings Peruvian-Mexican Flair to Ormond Beach (Frida’s Re-born)  🌮🐟

Ormond Beach food lovers, get ready for something truly special! The father-and-son duo of Pedro and Peter Navarez have opened Ceviche28, a fresh new fusion concept blending the bold, colorful flavors of Peru and Mexico right in the heart of town.

If the name sounds familiar, that’s because Pedro made waves with his original Ceviche28 in Vero Beach — a hit known for its creative seafood and vibrant dishes. Now, he’s brought that same energy north to 195 W. Granada Blvd., in the former Frida’s location. And yes, Pedro was also the owner behind Frida’s and the still popular Agave Fresh Mex in Ormond Beach. This time, he and Peter are serving up something entirely new, while still honoring their family’s signature flair for great food and warm hospitality.

The menu at Ceviche28 is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold combinations — from zesty ceviches to sizzling chicken and steak plates that burst with flavor. Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail from the full bar, and enjoy a perfect evening on the inviting outdoor patio. 

Pedro and Peter invite all lovers of Mexican and Latin cuisine to stop by, say hello, and discover their unique spin on fusion dining. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, a relaxed dinner, or a night out with friends, Ceviche28 is the place to be.

Come hungry, leave smiling — and see why everyone’s talking about Ormond’s newest taste sensation! And, show this Business Spotlight article to the server on your phone and receive 1 free House Margarita with your entre’ when 2 people are dining. Offer expires 10/31/25

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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

   Wed Oct 15

  • Event: Ormond By The Sea Lions Club Meeting, 6:30 PM,
    (New Location) GraceLife Beachside Church Hall, 6 Sandra Drive, Ormond Beach
    All Are Welcome!  More info at (386) 441-4421

  • Event: 🏍️Biketober Fest 2025, Oct 15 - Oct 19
    Iron Horse Saloon, 1068 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    The official start of the multi-day motorcycle rally featuring vendors, live music, and more.

  • Event: 🤝Networking Group 4, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
    Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, 165 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach Connect with local professionals during this lunchtime networking session.

  • Event: 🌻Sunflower Watercolor Painting Class, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
    he Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Unleash your inner artist at this guided watercolor painting class.

  • Event: 🔢Wednesday is BINGO Night at Kava Kula, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach
    Try your luck at a fun-filled bingo night.

  • Event: 🎶Live Music at Saints & Sinners Pub, Time not specified
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy live music performances at this local Ormond Beach pub.

    Thu Oct 16

  • Event: 👨‍🌾Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Shop for fresh produce, local honey, artisan breads, and handcrafted goods at this weekly community market.

  • Event: 🏋️Private Training: 1 Day, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    Ormond Beach Sports Complex, 700 Hull Rd, Ormond Beach
    A private, one-day training session.

  • Event: 📄Annual HOA October Budget Meeting, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Plantation Bay Golf Course - Preswick Clubhouse, 1044-1048 Hampstead Ln, Ormond Beach
    A private budget meeting for members of the Homeowners Association.

  • Event: 🏍️Willie's Chopper Time Bike Show, 11:00 AM
    Tropical Tattoo Inc, 825 S Yonge St, Ormond Beach
    A famous custom chopper show held during Biketoberfest, featuring unique and vintage motorcycles.

  • Event: 🎶Mojo Gypsy @ Beaver Bar, 6:00 PM
    The Beaver Bar Ormond Beach, 1105 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy a live performance from the band Mojo Gypsy.

  • Event: 🛼Junior Roller Derby Recruitment, 6:00 PM
    Astro Skate of Ormond Beach, 250 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    An opportunity for kids to learn about and join the exciting sport of roller derby.

  • Event: 🎤BEACHSIDE, 6:30 PM
    Salty D’s Beachside, 790 S Atlantic Ave, Ormond Beach
    An evening event at a popular beachside venue.

  • Event: 🤔Trivia Night at Kava Kula, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach
    Test your knowledge and compete with friends at this weekly trivia night.

  • Event: 🧒Kids Club, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    1464 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    An evening club event for kids.

  • Event: 🏍️Biketoberfest 2025 at Teddy Morse's, Oct 16 - Oct 19
    Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson, 1637 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    A major hub for Biketoberfest featuring bikes, vendors, entertainment, and the latest from Harley-Davidson.

  • Event: 🍻Riverfront Beer and Peanuts Inside Tomoka State Park, Oct 16 - Oct 20 T
    omoka Outpost, 2099 N Beach St, Ormond Beach
    elax with beer and peanuts in a scenic setting within Tomoka State Park.

  • Event: 🎭Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Chapter Two, Oct 16 - Oct 18 Anderson-Price Memorial Building, 42 N Beach St, Ormond Beach
    An immersive cocktail experience based on the gothic tales of Edgar Allan Poe.

  • Event: 🎶Live Music at Saints & Sinners Pub, Time not specified
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Catch a live music performance at this Ormond Beach pub.

    Fri Oct 17

  • vent: 🏍️Friday Biketoberfest® at Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson, All Day
    Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson, 1637 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    The Biketoberfest celebration continues with a full day of events, vendors, bikes, and live entertainment at the dealership.

  • Event: 🏞️Ormond Loop Ride for a Cause, 11:00 AM
    Cassen Park, 1 S Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Join a scenic motorcycle ride through the famous Ormond Loop to support a good cause.

  • Event: 🏆Ormond Beach 41st Annual Senior Games, 1:00 PM
    Ormond Beach Senior Center, 351 Andrews St, Ormond Beach
    Local seniors compete in a variety of athletic and recreational events in this annual competition.

  • Event: 🌿Botanical Gel Printmaking with Lisa Carlson, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach Learn the unique art of gel printmaking using botanical elements in this hands-on workshop.

  • Event: 🤠Whey Jennings, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    Iron Horse Saloon, 1068 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy a live performance by country artist Whey Jennings as part of the Biketoberfest festivities.

  • Event: 🎶Live Music at Saints & Sinners Pub, 7:00 PM
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Catch live musical performances in a classic pub atmosphere.

  • Event: 🌙Parents Night Out, kids sleepover, Starts Oct 17
    Little Feet Academy, 250 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Parents can enjoy a night out while the kids have a fun and safe sleepover experience with activities.


  • See More Recurring Events Here

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

Do you have an event you’d like to have posted? Submit Your Event Here. OR scan the QR Code below

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