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  • ⭐Ormond Eyes a Data Center Ban, Schools Deploy Guardian Drones, Rockville Is Here, Florida's Termite Problem Is Breeding

⭐Ormond Eyes a Data Center Ban, Schools Deploy Guardian Drones, Rockville Is Here, Florida's Termite Problem Is Breeding

Issue #916

08 May

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🖥️Ormond Beach commissioners are asking city staff to research whether the city can restrict large-scale data center developments — and to move quickly, before state and federal rules potentially complicate local authority. The prompt came from Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland, who noted that data centers are surging in demand nationwide due to AI expansion and consume extraordinary amounts of water — a medium-sized facility can use 110 million gallons a year, equivalent to 1,000 households. A pending state bill, SB 484, would preserve local government authority over data center zoning if signed by the governor. But a federal executive order from President Trump also promotes accelerated data center development on federal resources, and SB 180 currently restricts local governments from tightening zoning through 2027. Commissioners compared the situation to the fuel terminal fight and said they'd rather have a policy in place before they need one. Staff will return with options.

✦

🚁Volusia County Schools made history this week, becoming the first district in Central Florida — and reportedly the first in the nation — to deploy a drone-based anti-shooter security system. The Campus Guardian Angel Program, demonstrated at Deltona High School on May 1, places pre-positioned drones in secure boxes around campus that can deploy within 10 to 15 seconds of activation, confront a threat within 15 seconds, and incapacitate a suspect within 60 seconds using pepper spray gel, strobes, sirens, and audio commands. Remote pilots in Austin, Texas, control the non-lethal drones until a school resource officer arrives. The program received $557,000 in state funding and joins Broward and Leon counties in adopting the technology. Sheriff Chitwood called it the future of school safety — while also reminding everyone that technology is only as good as the people using it alongside it.

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🎸Welcome to Rockville is underway at Daytona International Speedway, running Thursday through Sunday with over 200,000 fans expected. Organizers are taking the heat seriously: additional shade structures, misters, and a fully covered stage have been added this year, and concertgoers are strongly encouraged to bring an empty water bottle — metal and glass bottles are prohibited, but refill stations are available throughout the grounds. Daytona Beach Fire officials recommend sunscreen, hats, and loose clothing. Heat exhaustion is a real risk at outdoor events in 90-plus degree weather; symptoms include heavy sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, and nausea. Move to shade, hydrate, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond an hour. On the safety side, Sheriff Chitwood noted the event historically sees phone thefts and has full local, state, and federal law enforcement presence on site. Watch your pockets. Enjoy the music.

Rockville heat safety reminders

  • Bring an empty reusable water bottle (no metal or glass) — refill stations are available

  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and loose clothing

  • Watch for heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps

  • If symptoms appear: move to shade, sip cold water, seek medical help if vomiting or confusion develops

  • AdventHealth medical staff and event teams are stationed throughout the venue

✦

🐛Florida has a termite problem, and it is getting more complicated. University of Florida researchers are tracking two invasive species — Formosan and Asian subterranean termites, both originally from Asia — that are advancing further north than previously predicted. The Formosan variety, which can form colonies of millions and cause tens of thousands of dollars in structural damage, has established itself across most coastal counties and major urban centers statewide. The Asian variety, once confined to South Florida's warmth, has been spotted as far north as Tampa, Orlando, and Melbourne. The genuinely alarming development is that the two species have begun interbreeding, producing a hybrid whose temperature tolerance — and therefore geographic range — is still being studied. Researchers say the long-term outlook is that both species will eventually become widespread across Florida, though likely not within most current residents' lifetimes. For now, the advice is to maintain relationships with licensed pest control professionals and stay alert to signs of infestation. Consider yourself warned.

Sources
"Ormond Beach City Commissioners to explore restricting data center developments" — Ormond Observer, May 7, 2026
"Volusia County Schools launches drone-based safety system" — HomeTown News, May 7, 2026
"Welcome to Rockville organizers urge concertgoers to take care in heat, stay vigilant" — MyNews13, May 7, 2026
"Here's when these invasive termites may put all of Florida at risk, experts warn" — Click Orlando, May 4, 2026

Recent Arrests

Ormond Beach Police Department

  • Eric Mitchell Thomas, 35, Ormond Beach— arrested April 24; principal to agg. battery/bodily harm/disability. Bail: not set.

  • Devon Conor Lozeau, 30, Ormond Beach— arrested April 29; burglary of occupied dwelling, criminal mischief, drug equip. possession/use, cannabis possession. Bail: $11,500.

  • Christopher John Carpenter, 42, Ormond Beach— arrested April 30; fleeing/eluding with lights & siren active, DUI. Bail: $3,000.

Holly Hill Police Department

  • Anthony John Sanders, 48, Holly Hill— arrested April 30; animal cruelty, evidence tampering, resisting officer without violence. Bail: not set.

Volusia County Sheriff’s Office

  • Devon Conor Lozeau, 30, Ormond Beach— arrested April 29; burglary of occupied dwelling, criminal mischief, drug equip. possession/use, cannabis possession. Bail: $11,500.

NOTE: This report lists arrests only, not convictions, from publicly available information, All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Fire and EMS Calls

All transcripts, headlines, and summaries are automatically generated by AI from live dispatch audio. These alerts are not an official report. Alerts are based on unconfirmed dispatch communications that may change as situations develop. Review the original audio and verify details with official sources before relying on this information

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Events for Friday, May 8, 2026

Ormond Beach

  • Event: 🖼️Quiet Light: The Art of Sara Pedigo, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach

    Explore this solo exhibition featuring paintings that investigate the beauty of light in domestic spaces. The museum's historic gardens are also available for a tranquil walk.

  • Event: 🎨Tradewinds: Seabreeze High School Student Exhibition, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach

    Support local young artists at this annual exhibition showcasing the creative talents and diverse works of Seabreeze High School students.

Holly Hill

  • Event: 🏓Metro Health Super Seniors at Pictona, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill

    The opening day of this multi-day tournament designed specifically for senior players. Competitive matches will take place across the world-class facility, attracting athletes from across the region.

  • Event: 💃Line Dancing Instruction, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    FHCP Activity Center at Pictona, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill

    Get moving with guided line dancing lessons. This social fitness session is open to all skill levels and is a great way to meet neighbors while staying active.

  • Event: 🚌HHE Echoes Universal Trip, All Day

    Holly Hill Elementary, 1500 Center St, Holly Hill

    A scheduled field trip for local students; residents should be aware of school bus activity and increased student movement around the school grounds early in the morning and late afternoon.

Daytona Beach

  • Event: 🎸Welcome to Rockville: My Chemical Romance & Bring Me The Horizon, 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM

    Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W International Blvd, Daytona Beach

    Day 2 of North America's largest rock festival. Headliners My Chemical Romance and Bring Me The Horizon lead a massive lineup of dozens of bands across multiple stages at the Speedway.

  • Event: ⚾Daytona Tortugas vs. Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, 7:05 PM

    Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 E Orange Ave, Daytona Beach

    Minor league baseball action at the historic "Jack." Friday games typically feature a post-game fireworks display, making it a perfect night for family entertainment.

  • Event: 🎤Kickstart Karaoke with Will Hammer, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    Hard Rock Hotel (Sessions), 918 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach

    Take the stage at the Hard Rock for a high-energy karaoke night overlooking the Atlantic. This event attracts a mix of locals and visitors for a night of rock-and-roll fun.

Events for Saturday, May 9, 2026

Ormond Beach

  • Event: 🖼️Quiet Light: The Art of Sara Pedigo, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach

    This solo exhibition showcases the work of Sara Pedigo, focusing on the beauty of fleeting light and domestic spaces. Visitors can also enjoy the "Tradewinds" exhibition featuring local Seabreeze High School student talent in the main galleries.

  • Event: 🍷Sip n' Stroll, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

    Anderson-Price Memorial Building, 42 N Beach St, Ormond Beach

    A relaxing Saturday afternoon through downtown Ormond Beach. Participants can sample refreshing drinks and tasty bites at local businesses while participating in a "Poker Walk" for a chance to win prizes.

Holly Hill

  • Event: 🏓MetroHealth Super Seniors Doubles Championships, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill

    The premier tournament for players aged 50+ continues with Mixed Doubles competition. Spectators are welcome to watch high-level matches across 49 dedicated pickleball courts at this world-class facility.

Daytona Beach

  • Event: 🎸Welcome to Rockville: Bring Me The Horizon & Breaking Benjamin, 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM

    Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W International Blvd, Daytona Beach

    Day 3 of the massive rock festival features headliners Bring Me The Horizon and Breaking Benjamin, along with Motionless in White, Lamb of God, Simple Plan, and Switchfoot across multiple stages.

  • Event: ⚾Daytona Tortugas vs. Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, 7:05 PM

    Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 E Orange Ave, Daytona Beach

    Saturday night baseball at the historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark. It's a great family atmosphere featuring professional minor league action in the heart of downtown Daytona.

  • Event: 🎤Kickstart Karaoke with Will Hammer, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    Hard Rock Hotel (Sessions), 918 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach

    Take the stage for a high-energy karaoke session at the Hard Rock. This beachside event offers professional sound and an enthusiastic crowd for singers of all levels.

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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