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⭐Mayoral Dispute Escalates, Artists Sought For Memorial, Sculptures Extend Their Stay

Issue #1009

Author

.George Sloane
09 Aug

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⚖️ Public Dispute Escalates Between Mayor and Residents

A public disagreement between Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie and two local residents has intensified after cease-and-desist letters were issued alleging harassment, defamation and reputational harm. The letters, sent on the mayor's behalf by legal counsel, reference criticism directed at Leslie, including "Liar Leslie" signs and allegations involving excerpts from the mayor's recently published book. One of the recipients responded during this week's City Commission meeting, calling the legal action an attempt to discourage protected speech and submitting a cease-and-desist letter of his own. The mayor declined to comment publicly. The dispute highlights an ongoing conflict that has increasingly played out in public meetings and community discussions.

🇺🇸 Artists Sought for Gulf War Memorial Sculpture

The Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens is inviting professional artists from across the country to submit proposals for a permanent public sculpture honoring veterans of the Gulf War, including those who served during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Planned for installation in the museum's gardens, the monument is intended to celebrate the courage, unity and sacrifice of those who served while creating a place for reflection and education. The selected design should incorporate strong human elements, patriotic symbolism and durable materials suitable for Florida's coastal environment. Proposal submissions are due by Aug. 31, with installation targeted for Spring 2027. Artists can review project details and apply at https://opportunities.wearecreativewest.org/opportunity/17881/CAFE.

🎨 Downtown Sculpture Exhibit Extended Through December

Fans of the Seward Johnson sculptures lining Granada Boulevard have even more time to enjoy them. The Ormond Beach Arts District has announced that the exhibit of 12 life-sized, realistic sculptures will remain on display through December after originally being scheduled to conclude this summer. The internationally recognized works, created by the late American sculptor Seward Johnson, can be found throughout the downtown corridor from A1A to U.S. 1, inviting visitors to encounter familiar scenes featuring dancers, kite-flying children, Albert Einstein on a bicycle and even the Mona Lisa. Organizers also plan additional docent tours, artist demonstrations and interactive activities designed to make the exhibit an even more engaging experience.

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📅 Local Events: Sunday, August 9, 2026

Wrap up the weekend with a back-to-school celebration in Ormond Beach, weekend music and pickleball in Holly Hill, and the massive Reggae On The Rock summer bash in Daytona Beach!

📍 Ormond Beach

🎒 Community & Family

Back to School Blessing + Block Party

Kick off the new school year strong! Head to Calvary Christian Center for a special Back to School Blessing Service followed by a fun Block Party. Enjoy water slides, Kona Ice, and backpack giveaways for the kids, plus a special lounge for teachers.

Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Location: Calvary Christian Center (1687 W Granada Blvd) | Cost: Free

🍳 Food & Drink

Sunday Brunch at Historic Rose Villa

Treat yourself to a fantastic Sunday brunch in a beautiful, historic setting! Located in the heart of downtown, Rose Villa offers signature Southern-inspired brunch dishes and craft cocktails perfect for a relaxing Sunday.

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Location: Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar (43 W Granada Blvd)

📍 Holly Hill

🏓 Active & Leisure

Sunday Open Play & Music @ Pictona

Slide into the end of the weekend for music and pickleball! Every Sunday, Pictona plays upbeat music while you dink, lob, and drive on the courts. It's a fantastic way to stay active and socialize.

Time: Open all day | Location: Pictona at Holly Hill (1060 Ridgewood Ave)

📍 Daytona Beach

🎶 Festivals & Entertainment

Reggae On The Rock – End of Summer Bash

The party continues! Head over to Manatee Island for day two of the massive Reggae On The Rock festival. Enjoy free live music, DJs, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and family fun right on the river.

Time: Ends at 8:00 PM | Location: Manatee Island (357 N Beach St) | Cost: Free Entry (VIP Upgrades available)

🌊 Volunteering & Outdoors

Beach Squad Public Beach Cleanup

Give back to the local community this Sunday morning! Join the Beach Squad for their public beach cleanup. All supplies are provided—just bring your positive attitude, some sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Location: Sun Splash Park (611 S Atlantic Ave) | Cost: Free

📅 Local Events: Monday, August 10, 2026

Start your week with positive momentum! Monday brings community activities to the local community centers, action-packed pickleball courts in Holly Hill, and a fun open mic comedy night in Daytona Beach!

📍 Ormond Beach / Daytona Shores

🧘‍♀️ Health & Wellness

Sittercise at Shores Community Center

Kick off your week with a gentle, seated exercise class! Sittercise is perfect for those looking to stay active with low-impact movements.

Time: 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM | Location: Shores Community Center (3000 Bellemead Dr)

🃏 Games & Social

Euchre Card Game

Join the community for a fun afternoon of Euchre! Whether you're a seasoned player or looking to socialize, the Shores Community Center welcomes you for card games and camaraderie.

Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Location: Shores Community Center (3000 Bellemead Dr)

📍 Holly Hill

🏓 Active & Leisure

Monday Open Play @ Pictona

Start your week on the courts! Head over to Pictona at Holly Hill for Monday open play pickleball. With 49 courts available and plenty of covered options, it's a fantastic way to stay active and socialize, rain or shine.

Time: Open all day | Location: Pictona at Holly Hill (1060 Ridgewood Ave)

📍 Daytona Beach

🎤 Entertainment & Nightlife

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic Night!

Laugh the night away with comedians from across the state at Cristy B's Comedy Club! Whether they're seasoned pros or fresh new faces, you're guaranteed a great time. There is no cover charge, but a two-item minimum applies.

Time: 7:30 PM (Sign-ups at 7:00 PM) | Location: Cristy B's Comedy Club | Cost: Free entry (Reserve ticket online)

🎸 Live Music & Dining

Acoustic Sunset at Hard Rock Hotel

Wind down your Monday evening with a relaxed acoustic set on the Wave Terrace. Enjoy signature craft cocktails, delicious appetizers, and stunning oceanfront views as local musicians set the perfect sunset mood.

Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (918 N Atlantic Ave) | Cost: Free Entry

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