The West Volusia Beacon is a weekly community newspaper for the west side of Volusia in Central FL The West Volusia Beacon is West Volusia's hometown newspaper.
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For 25 years, we've covered news big and small throughout DeLand, Deltona, Orange City, DeBary and all around the region. We feature local voices with a variety of opinions and viewpoints, insightful articles that get to the heart of an issue and lots of photos of local events. Pick up a copy at gas stations, supermarkets and Walmarts around West Volusia, or at our Downtown DeLand office! Subscriptions start at $28 for six months or $48 for a year.
Members of Lake Helen-Cassadaga-Deltona American Legion Post 127 take part in the 2024-25 Induction Ceremony, June 22. Inducted officers include Roger Eckert, commander; Allan Cooke Sr., first vice commander; Ron Woodley, second vice commander; Bill O’Hara, sergeant-at-arms; Clint Russell, Chaplain; and Robert Shaffer, adjutant.
Beacon Photo/Marsha McLaughlin
📌 The Beacon is committed to providing an open forum for the opinions of the people of West Volusia.
Al Everson: "Where did the time go? It seems as if it were but yesterday since last Fourth of July.
Does the day mean anything to you — other than a day off from work, a time to head for the beach, or to mix with others in a celebration with food and fireworks? Do we stop to contemplate how blessed and fortunate we are — even in the midst of political turmoil and rancor?"
Once again, we are preparing to observe our nation’s birthday. Where did the time go? It seems as if it were but yesterday since last Fourth of July. Does the […]
Check out our roundup of Fourth of July events in Volusia County, including fireworks, live music, food trucks, and family fun!
Wednesday, July 3 DeLand Firecracker Festival 6-9 p.m. in Earl Brown Park and Playground, 750 S. Alabama Ave., DeLand. Kids’ zone; lawn seating; food trucks; fireworks at dusk. Free admission. […]
Husband and wife, Peter Branfoot and Gwen Rudderow of DeLand have much to celebrate this July Fourth. It’s Independence Day, of course. And Peter’s 85th birthday… and Gwen’s 82nd birthday!
Husband and wife, Peter Branfoot and Gwen Rudderow of DeLand have much to celebrate this July Fourth. It’s Independence Day, of course. And Peter’s 85th birthday… and Gwen’s 82nd birthday! […]
Happy Independence Day from The West Volusia Beacon!
Our office will be closed today in observance of the holiday. Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!
Pictured is the wreckage following a small plane crash that occurred June 26, off Lake Molly Avenue in DeLand. According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, two people were injured in the crash but were alert and conscious when transported to an area hospital for trauma care.
Beacon Photo/Marsha McLaughlin
Volusia County’s 2024 preliminary tax roll affirms a solid and strong demand for the land and the improvements upon it.
The county Property Appraiser’s Office released figures showing the market values and the tax base at record high levels and poised to go yet higher.
Volusia County’s 2024 preliminary tax roll affirms a solid and strong demand for the land and the improvements upon it. The county Property Appraiser’s Office released figures showing the market […]
Get ready to be enchanted by the timeless tale that has captivated hearts for centuries! Beauty and the Beast has evolved from a literary classic into a beloved Disney movie and a celebrated Broadway musical, showcasing its enduring appeal and universal themes of love, sacrifice and redemption.
Get ready to be enchanted by the timeless tale that has captivated hearts for centuries! Beauty and the Beast has evolved from a literary classic into a beloved Disney movie […]
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FDOT
PUBLIC MEETING
When: Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
Where: • Virtually on GoTo Webinar • In person at Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center
Financial Project Identification (FPID) No. 431922-1
SR 44 at Kepler Road Intersection Improvements, Volusia
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will hold a public meeting regarding project plans on State Road (S.R.) 44 (East New York Avenue) and Kepler Road on Tuesday, July 9, at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of this project is to replace the traffic signal at S.R. 44 and Kepler Road with a roundabout to improve traffic efficiency and enhance safety at the intersection. FDOT is offering multiple ways to participate in the live meeting.
In-Person Open House Option: Participants may attend in person by going to the Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center, 815 S. Alabama Avenue, DeLand, FL 32724, anytime between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to view a looping presentation and project displays, speak with project team members, and submit comments or questions. If attending in person, please remember to follow all safety and sanitation guidelines. If you are feeling unwell, please consider attending the meeting virtually.
Virtual Option: Interested persons may join over the Internet from a computer, tablet or mobile device at 5:30 p.m. For this option, advance registration is required by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5636869999900566870. Once registered, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting online. If using a mobile device, use the GoToWebinar app to be able to view the presentation and submit comments. If joining online, please allow adequate time to log in to view the presentation in its entirety.
If you cannot attend the meeting, you can view all meeting materials, including the presentation, and provide comment through the project website at https://www.cflroads.com/project/431922-1 before the meeting. You may also contact the FDOT Project Manager directly at the phone number listed below.
Persons with disabilities who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or persons who require translation services (free of charge), should contact Britney Jones, Community Outreach Coordinator by phone at 386-740-3566, or via email at [email protected] at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact us by using the Florida Relay Service, 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1-800-955-8770 (Voice).
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, s*x, religion, disability, or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns relative to FDOT compliance with Title VI may do so by contacting Melissa McKinney, FDOT District Five Title VI Coordinator at [email protected].
For more information, please contact FDOT Project Manager Michael “Glenn” Raney at 386-740-3524, email at [email protected], or U.S. mail at Florida Department of Transportation, 719 S. Woodland Blvd., MS 513, DeLand, FL 32720.
*Sponsored post*
431922-1 SR 44 at Kepler Road intersection improvements Project Details Work Type: Roundabout Phase: Construction Length: 0.475 miles City: DeLand County: Volusia Road: SR 44 Construction Cost: $8.5 Million Project Start: Summer 2024 Est. Completion: Fall 2025 About The Florida Department of Transpo...
People attending the meetings of the Deltona City Commission no longer must submit to security searches of their personal items, including handbags.
People attending the meetings of the Deltona City Commission no longer must submit to security searches of their personal items, including handbags. Deltona’s new city manager, Dale Dougherty, ordered an […]
The Volusia County School Board has announced the latest administrative appointments, with four newly appointed principals and four county-level appointments.
The appointment of new principals affected three West Volusia schools, with Carrie Ann Devaney being named principal of Pride Elementary in Deltona, Christopher Mertz as principal of Discovery Elementary in Deltona, and Dr. Tai Swift as principal of Southwestern Middle School in DeLand.
The Volusia County School Board has announced the latest administrative appointments, with four newly appointed principals and four county-level appointments. The appointment of new principals affected three West Volusia schools, […]
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in DeLand celebrates the installation of Its new rector, the Rev. Audrey Sutton. The Service of Institution was performed June 9 by Bishop Justin Holcomb of the Diocese of Central Florida. Also in attendance were Bishop Lloyd Allen, of Honduras, as well as other bishops, priests, archdeacons and deacons from area dioceses and churches. A celebration dinner followed the service. From left are Randall Sutton, Scarlett Sutton, the Rev. Audrey Sutton and Bishop Justin Holcomb.
You can read more West Volusia church news here: https://bit.ly/3VMyVlE
Capt. Scott “Red” Flowers has embarked on a great adventure for a meaningful cause. Capt. Flowers, a Stage 4 cancer survivor himself, is in the midst of completing one epic boating endeavor.
In an ambitious fundraising effort to support the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Capt. Flowers departed from the Lake Beresford Yacht Club in DeLand June 15 for what adventuring boaters call “The Great Loop.”
Capt. Scott “Red” Flowers has embarked on a great adventure for a meaningful cause. Capt. Flowers, a Stage 4 cancer survivor himself, is in the midst of completing one epic […]
2024 marks 25 years of service for first-generation funeral director Angela Dallas-Johnson. Dallas-Johnson is the first Black, female funeral home owner in DeLand, and Beacon staff had an opportunity to speak with Dallas-Johnson and her daughter, Dawn Johnson-Myles — who works alongside her mom at Unity Funeral Home at 105 W. New Hampshire Ave. in DeLand — as they commemorate this milestone of community advocacy and funeral service.
2024 marks 25 years of service for first-generation funeral director Angela Dallas-Johnson. Dallas-Johnson is the first Black, female funeral home owner in DeLand, and Beacon staff had an opportunity to […]
Good news! Our Senior Resource Guide is now available online!
You can access the guide here: https://bit.ly/45HWhxr
More than $32 million of state funding that was previously approved and allocated for Florida museums, educational institutions and arts programs has been vetoed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
More than $32 million of state funding that was previously approved and allocated for Florida museums, educational institutions and arts programs has been vetoed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. With […]
With no objection, but with some reservation, the Deltona City Commission has approved its agreement with Halifax Humane Society to shelter stray and unwanted animals picked up within the city. Deltona will pay $40,000 to the nonprofit agency to provide care for dogs, cats and other domesticated animals at its facility in Daytona Beach.
With no objection, but with some reservation, the Deltona City Commission has approved its agreement with Halifax Humane Society to shelter stray and unwanted animals picked up within the city. […]
Dr. Patrick Coggins, from Stetson University, joined members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at the June 19 unveiling of a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. bronze sculpture. The new sculpture was unveiled on the Juneteenth holiday, and stands at 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd. in Deltona.
A request to expand a neighborhood on Deltona’s east side failed to gain approval, even though the number of homes would be smaller than prior proposals.
When the City Commission acted June 17 on the developer’s plan to add scores of new homes to Fernanda Place, the vote was not close: 7-0 against.
A request to expand a neighborhood on Deltona’s east side failed to gain approval, even though the number of homes would be smaller than prior proposals. When the City Commission […]
With a packed house in attendance, the DeBary City Council June 19 refused to convert 59 rural acres fronting on Fort Florida Road and West Highbanks Road for development of single-family homes.
With a packed house in attendance, the DeBary City Council June 19 refused to convert 59 rural acres fronting on Fort Florida Road and West Highbanks Road for development of […]
Better citizens and perhaps future leaders stand together to receive their certificates of completion of DeBary’s Citizens Academy. Twenty residents spent eight weeks learning how DeBary’s government works. The class was informed about the purposes and inner workings of the city’s departments, as well as agencies. For example, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office provides law-enforcement services to the city, and DeBary contracts with the Orange City Fire Department for fire protection and emergency-medical services.
The graduates of the Citizens Academy are, in no particular order, Debbie Dillard, Linda Clifton, A.J. Hackshaw, Christine Carson-Nulty, Farrah Stark, Deborah R. Antonio, Kelly Rosado, William Hughes, James (Jim) Old, James Gentry, Cari Barth, Meredith Fordham, Esther Encarcion, Rob Thies, Sheena Griffin, Jeri Ann Lovett, Bret Douglas, Frances Talmadge, and Allison Fish. Mayor Karen Chasez, in pink, stands in front of the group.
Also during the ceremony, Vice Mayor Phyllis Butlien, to the right of Chasez, was given a key to the city.
With the celebration of her 103rd birthday May 29, Evelyn Virginia Waters Warren has reached another milestone.
BY LANA SAXON With the celebration of her 103rd birthday May 29, Evelyn Virginia Waters Warren has reached another milestone. Born in Morgantown, West Virginia, a long the Monongahela River, […]
Sisters Build Network for Girls Inc. and Man Up Mentoring celebrate their fifth year as the host of Juneteenth DeLand. Since that time, Juneteenth has become a federal holiday.
Sisters Build Network for Girls Inc. and Man Up Mentoring celebrate their fifth year as the host of Juneteenth DeLand. Since that time, Juneteenth has become a federal holiday. Juneteenth’s […]
Joe Balog: "A recent volunteer effort got me thinking about the future. Everywhere I turned, helpers prioritized the health of the St. Johns River.
Waist-deep in the murky water, newcomers to the effort were understandably leery. Wading around in waters known for giant alligators can get anyone concerned, especially when you can’t see your toes. But the volunteers just kept working. Safety was in numbers.
The objective was to enclose large tracts of the Lake George shallows with stainless-steel fences. This particular project spanned 10 acres of barren bottom, once a beautiful waterway supporting a carpet of submerged vegetation. These “weed beds” were primarily native eelgrass, essential links in the chain of life."
BY JOE BALOG A recent volunteer effort got me thinking about the future. Everywhere I turned, helpers prioritized the health of the St. Johns River. Waist-deep in the murky water, […]
Volusia County residents annoyed by mosquitoes may be eligible for free mosquito-reducing fish provided by the County’s Mosquito Control Division. As part of its Integrated Pest Management program, the division uses Gambusia holbrooki, commonly known as “mosquito fish,” to control mosquito larvae biologically.
Volusia County residents annoyed by mosquitoes may be eligible for free mosquito-reducing fish provided by the County’s Mosquito Control Division. As part of its Integrated Pest Management program, the division […]
Leo Winfrey, 12, of DeLand, is on his way to the 2024 USA Climbing Youth National Championships, which will be held in Salt Lake City from July 7 to 14.
Leo Winfrey, 12, of DeLand, is on his way to the 2024 USA Climbing Youth National Championships, which will be held in Salt Lake City from July 7 to 14. […]
110 W New York Avenue
Deland, FL
32720
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Happy Independence Day from The West Volusia Beacon! Our office will be closed today in observance of the holiday. Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!
Beaconites Melodie Robinson and Coni Tarby light the candles as Beacon staff members gather today to celebrate the birthday of publisher Barb Shepherd. The party featured pumpkin pie and chocolate cake home-baked by these two talented women.
Follies, foibles, controversies and tempests often rock Deltona, and now there is a new one. The latest episode involves a nearly $1 million bill from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service for penalties regarding erroneous paperwork on health insurance in tax filings from 2016 to 2019. Vice Mayor Jody Lee Storozuk tried to raise the issue at a special meeting of the Deltona City Commission May 2, but Mayor Santiago Avila Jr. wielded his gavel to head off the revelations. The two talked over each other, resulting in the end of the meeting, but not the story. You can read more here: https://beacononlinenews.com/2024/05/03/does-deltona-have-a-1-million-irs-bill/
Journalism Confrence
Happy Halloween from The West Volusia Beacon!
Pumper Pull. They don’t call Georgia Avenue in Downtown DeLand the Party Zone for nothing! Can the DeLand Professional Firefighters best the reigning champs from Deltona? Stay tuned!
This morning, Stetson University and the Mainstreet DeLand Association invited members of the community to try out the trolley. DeLand leaders hope they can provide transportation between the DeLand SunRail Station and Downtown DeLand, possibly as soon as next year. You can read more about DeLand's future trolley here: https://beacononlinenews.com/2023/07/27/delands-dream-trolley-inches-along-the-track/ #stetsonuniversity #trolley #sanfordtrolley #sunrail #deland #delandfl #downtowndeland #downtowndelandfl #mainstreetdelandassociation #mainstreetdeland
ALERT: A fire located in the Clark Bay Conservation Area, about two miles east of DeLand, is bringing smoke to parts of International Speedway Boulevard today. The fire, covering an estimated 50 acres, is 50 percent contained as of 4:30 p.m. June 14, Volusia County Information Officer Pat Kuehn told The Beacon. No homes are threatened. The Florida Forest Service, with assistance from Volusia County Fire Rescue, is battling the blaze, and Flagler County's Fire Flight helicopter is dropping water. “The fire is putting out a lot of smoke, and there will be smoke impacts this evening between West Parkway Boulevard and Clark Bay Road,” Kuehn said. The fire was first reported around 1 p.m. today. VIDEO COURTESY JEREMY CANOVA
Mel Adderson-McDonald reads aloud the names of the 49 victims of the Pulse nightclub massacre, as part of DeLand Pride’s memorial in Downtown DeLand today on the anniversary of the 2016 mass shooting. #wvbeacon #westvolusia #LocalNews #PulseNightclub #pride2023
The West Volusia Beacon is sharing this invitation from our advertiser: "Are you as free as you want to be? Come to our one-hour talk Sunday, June 18, and find out how learning more about God can help you find freedom. All are welcome. Sponsored by the First Church of Christ, Scientist, DeLand."
Just a typical Sunday afternoon in Downtown DeLand.
They say crime doesn't pay, but it can be funny. Read about the more humorous side of local law enforcment in The West Volusia Beacon's Off The Beat. Click here for a few good laughs: https://beacononlinenews.com/category/off-the-beat/ #wvbeacon #localnews #localcrime #LawEnforcement #offthebeat
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In case you missed out on these great stories, you can check them out on our website.
Read opinions of your friends and neighbors on what's happening in West Volusia (or submit your own.)
Don’t forget to move your clocks forward an hour tonight. Computers, tablets, smartwatches and smartphones will most likely adjust on their own, but microwaves, wall clocks, car clocks, and more will need to be adjusted manually.
Security images released of robbery at DeLand Bank. Follow updates as we receive them at: https://beacononlinenews.com/2023/03/10/robbery-at-deland-bank-police-looking-for-suspect/
