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😔 Riverbend Worship Leader Removed Amid Misconduct Confession

A longtime worship leader at Riverbend Community Church has been removed following serious allegations of past sexual misconduct. Heyward Evans, 48, confessed to church elders that he had inappropriate encounters with three teenage girls about 20 years ago. The misconduct, which included kissing and groping over clothing, occurred while Evans was in his late 20s and in a leadership role at the church.

The situation came to light after a Reddit post triggered internal conversations, prompting Evans to admit to the behavior during discussions with church elders. Despite denying online claims of being a "pedophile," Evans acknowledged actions that emotionally harmed individuals. Pastor Josh Brown addressed the congregation in an Aug. 13 meeting, affirming that Evans had repented but could no longer serve in his role. The church has notified law enforcement and is considering a third-party evaluation to further investigate the matter.

The Ormond Beach Police Department has contacted the victims, all of whom were around 16 or 17 at the time of the incidents.

Source: Ormond Observer

🦁 Lions Club Kicks Off the Year with Awards and Service

Switching gears to local service, the Ormond-by-the-Sea Lions Club recently hosted its first District Advisory Meeting of the season at St. Brendan’s Church. With over 75 Lions attending from across the state, the event buzzed with accolades and community pride.

Highlights included a moving talk by Beth Robertson of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer and a sweet Lions cookie contest led by District Governor Maggiy Williams. President Aleta Dick was awarded a Grand Lion Life Membership for her ongoing vision-related service efforts. Several Lions, including Mary Yochum and others from Palm Coast, received appreciation certificates for their contributions to the International Convention.

The Lions didn’t stop there — on Aug. 23, members renewed their certification as blood sugar screeners, and they wrapped up the month with a Joint Zone Meeting that spotlighted mental health awareness.

Source: Ormond Observer

🐶 Dog Days of Summer Fundraiser Aims to Boost Adoptions

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time: Daytona Beach German Shepherd Rescue is hosting its “Dog Days of Summer” fundraiser at The Casements in Ormond Beach on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For $30 (one dog) or $50 (two dogs), pups can enjoy splash pools, agility zones, and photo sessions, while humans get in for free. Superior K9 Academy will provide training demos, and local vendors will offer pet-friendly products.

The event supports the rescue’s efforts to rehome dogs — a mission that’s becoming more difficult as adoption rates dip and more pets are surrendered. Currently, the nonprofit has 13 German Shepherds in foster care, and they’re hoping this event brings much-needed visibility and funding.

To learn more or purchase tickets, visit: https://dbgsr.betterworld.org/events/DBGSR-DogDaysOfSummer

Source: Ormond Observer

🏀 Mayor Dispels Rumors of Youth Sports Cuts

Rumors of Ormond Beach axing youth sports funding have been circulating, but Mayor Jason Leslie wants residents to know: there’s no truth to the buzz.

A recent Facebook post claimed the mayor intended to defund all city sports programs. Leslie was quick to respond, saying, “There has been no discussion by myself or the Commission to eliminate Ormond Beach Sports.” The comments, he said, are likely politically motivated fearmongering.

While the City Commission did discuss budget cuts during its Aug. 20 workshop, none involved reducing support for recreational sports. Staff noted that deeper cuts could impact services like parks and recreation, but no such proposals are currently on the table.

The Commission will vote on the finalized budget and tax rate on Sept. 3. For now, youth soccer and baseball enthusiasts can breathe easy.

Source: Ormond Observer

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