PORT ORANGE
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VOLUME 5, NO. 2
• OCTOBER 2021
Home prices rise yet again But Daytona Beach-area home sales slowed. Port Orange’s median price: $332,500 PAGE 7
School Board backtracks on masks
HONORING OUR HEROES
An opt-out policy for face coverings is now in place. JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Parents of students attending Volusia County Schools now have the opportunity to opt out of the district’s emergency mask mandate for students, a decision reached by the School Board in a 3-2 vote on Tuesday, Sept. 14. School Board members Carl Persis and Ruben Colon voted against. The matter came before the board after a three-judge panel of the 1st District Court of Appeal placed a stay on a ruling by Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper, who found that the governor’s executive order banning school districts from requiring students wear masks overstepped his constitutional authority, a ruling that was quickly appealed by the state. Parents involved in the legal battle now want the matter to be handled by the Florida Supreme Court. “We all want to be good stewards of the law, but our children should not be utilized as pawns to prove a political point, no matter what that point is, said School Board Chair Linda Cuthbert, who voted in favor of letting parents opt out of the district’s face covering policy, though she stated
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Knights to bring Port Orange together to honor Veterans PAGE 4 Courtesy photo
Among the skits to entertain the veterans at the 2019 dinner was Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy by the Andrews Sisters, played by Debbie Jackson, Carmel Vaden and Denyse Meyers, joined by bugler/dancer John O’Brian, dressed in an authentic WW II Army uniform.
Jewish Federation’s Gloria Max leaves a selfless legacy of giving back Gloria Max is remembered by her generosity, work ethic, and relentless fundraising for those in need.
JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Gloria Max was a force to be reckoned with in the community. As the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Flagler and Volusia Counties, Max, despite her short stature, was like a “6-foot-6-inch champion boxer” in spirit, said Marvin Miller, the nonprofit’s president. Once she got an idea in her head, she pursued it relentlessly. She was at the Federation’s Jerry Doliner Food Bank every day, Miller said, and it was her commitment to the nonprofit’s mission that Gloria Max
File photo
SEE MAX PAGE 2
PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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OCTOBER 2021
Max dies after long battle with cancer BIZ BUZZ DQ GRILL & CHILL RESTAURANT OPENS IN PORT ORANGE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
impressed him from the very first time he met her 20 years ago. “People use that term — 24/7,” Miller said. “Well, that was in truth for her. She probably set the bar for 24/7.” Max died on Friday, Sept. 10, after a six-year battle with cancer, days away from her 81st birthday. Remembered for her passion of helping others, and her persistent ways of fundraising for the Jewish Federation, Max, a native of Toronto, Canada, often remarked to many people that it was her job that was keeping her alive. “What good were you if you were only for yourself,” said Janice Sumner, her assistant at the Jewish Federation. “That was one quote that she always used to quote all the time.” FIGHTING FOR YOUR CAUSE
Max and her husband, Ray, moved to Volusia County in 1983 after 15 years of operating a gourmet shop in West Virginia. Inspired by her Polish immigrant father, Mendel Goldstein, Max built the Jerry Doliner Food Bank into what it is today: It feeds around 25,000 people a year regardless of race or religion using only donations; the nonprofit has always absorbed administration costs. “Gloria just was relentless as far as supporting all of those things — supporting the needy,” Sumner said. “She was definitely someone you would want on your side.” Sarah Crane, a friend of Max, drove her to her chemotherapy appointments. It was then, Crane wrote in a statement, that she became aware of Max’s “larger than life presence.” Max mourned the time it took for these appointments because they inconvenienced her productivity, Crane said. There were phone calls to return, rents to pay, and Max wanted to go back to work. On those days, Crane’s car would become Max’s temporary office.
File photo
Gloria Max, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Flagler and Volusia Counties, during the 2020 Thanksgiving turkey giveaway.
‘SHE WAS SELFLESS’
Whether it was making sure 7,000 children in Volusia and Flagler counties had a backpack full of school supplies, ensuring families had enough to eat at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, or raising funds for people affected by natural disasters, Max never lost sight of her mission. Radio host Big John first met her in the mid-1990s and said Max’s life mission was to help the poor in the community “It was hard for her to cut anybody any slack because she was a worker,” he said. “I referred to her as the Mother Teresa of Volusia County because she absolutely was. She was selfless. That’s the number one word: selfless.”
Port Orange just got a whole lot sweeter with a legacy brand opening its newest restaurant in the community. American Dairy Queen Corporation (ADQ), the iconic brand beloved for its mouthwatering meals and tasty treats, announced the opening of a DQ Grill & Chill restaurant to Port Orange. Offically opening on Sept. 5, the restaurant will be located at 3817 Clyde Morris Blvd. The new location will be locally owned by Pragnesh Patel. Patel is a longtime operator with Dairy Queen with a handful of restaurants already open throughout Central Florida. “Since originally getting involved with the DQ brand, I instantly saw the potential the concept had for
MAX’S LEGACY
Max knew she would not return to the food bank after her last surgery. So instead, she calmly turned to Miller and asked him to do one last thing for her: start a fundraiser. “She said, ‘Tell them that it’s for Gloria. It was my last wish,’” Miller recalled. To donate to the Gloria Max Memorial Fund, visit mightycause.com/story/7wq0nf. “We’re going to carry on the legacy,” Miller said. “We will make it work because she will not be forgotten. I promise that.”
Courtesy photo
Located at 3817 Clyde Morris Blvd., the new restaurant is owned by multiunit operator Pragnesh Patel, who operates a number of DQ locations in Central Florida. This new DQ Grill & Chill houses a number of savory & sweet options after officially opening on Sept. 5.
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RUE AND ZIFFRA WELCOMES LISA VICCARO AS MARKETING DIRECTOR
Lisa Viccaro Lisa Viccaro has joined Rue and Ziffra as the Port Orange-based law firm’s new Marketing Director. A well-established marketing professional in Volusia County, Viccaro comes to Rue and Ziffra with nearly 30 years of experience in advertising and marketing in the local community. She has experience in health care marketing, advertising sales, creative strategy, brand management, media buying and video production. Viccaro previously worked with Halifax Health managing the marketing team’s efforts and strategy for their three community hospitals and outpatient facilities, as well as owned and operated an advertising agency. Prior to that she has an extensive background in television and radio advertising sales. She has a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Nova Southeastern University. Viccaro is a member of the Leadership Daytona Alumni Council and Board Executive Committee Member and Marketing Chair for United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties. Allan Ziffra, Partner and President of Rue & Ziffra, says he is excited about the breadth of experience Viccaro brings to the team. “Her depth of experience, knowledge and marketing expertise will complement our growing firm of professionals.” Rue & Ziffra has been in the community for 40 years, serving as personal injury attorneys. For more information, contact John Robinson at (386) 788-7700 or visit www. rueziffra.com
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expansion,” said Patel. “It is always exciting to bring the Dairy Queen name to a new community and Port Orange is no exception. It’s truly amazing to see the excitement the fans of the brand continuously bring to each visit with us. I’m eager to expand our reach throughout Central Florida and see the new Port Orange restaurant thrive.” Patel also owns restaurants in Leesburg and Debary among others. In addition to Dairy Queen, he operates a Quality Inn in Central Florida. Assisting Patel with operations at the Port Orange location will be Parth Patel. The duo have a longstanding relationship in business together and also with Dairy Queen. What began as the 10-cent sale of an unknown frozen treat in 1938 quickly boomed into one of the most well-known companies of all time. Maintaining its recipe for success throughout 80 years, the Dairy Queen system has more than 7,000 locations worldwide.
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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OCTOBER 2021
“Our motto — in most fire agencies around the world — is, ‘Everybody goes home.’ We want to include that with the pets. They, too, should go home.” HOWARD BAILEY, Fire Rescue Chief
CoCo is scanned for a microchip at the Operation Fire Scan and Rescue training event.
Scan and rescue
Lt. Paramedic Jeremy Karaginis and VCAS Director Adam Leath give Pogo a little TLC.
Operation Fire Scan and Rescue initiative aims at reuniting more lost pets with owners
MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
O Pogo gets scanned for a microchip at the Operation Fire Scan and Rescue training event.
Volusia County Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Howard Bailey expresses his appreciation for the partnership with Volusia County Animal Services.
Photos by Michele Meyers
peration Fire Scan and Rescue initiative was officially launched in a joint training session Friday, Aug. 20, at the Fire Services Training Center Station 15 on Tiger Bay Road in Daytona Beach. Volusia County Animal Services Director Adam Leath announced that they had partnered with Volusia County Fire Rescue to purchase and distribute pet microchip scanners to all 20 fire stations in Volusia County. A few weeks ago, Leath had approached Fire Rescue Chief Howard Bailey about the joint initiative and they quickly formulated a plan to train all fire and rescue personnel on how to utilize the scanners and implement procedures to return the identified pets back to their owners. “Volusia County Fire Services and Animal Services are committed to providing protection for our pets and our public,” Leath said. “So today that partnership brings about some unique opportunities. If you take the opportunity to microchip your pet, your local fire station can now identify that microchip, and we can get that pet immediately home to you.” According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, in fiscal year 2018-2019, there were over 223,145 pets in Volusia County with 5,645 brought in to local shelters. Ormond Beach had 717 pets taken in, Holly Hill had 208, and Daytona Beach had 1,691. Pets enter these facilities at an increased cost to the citizens, increased stress to local shelters and sometimes not a positive outcome.
Firefighters and animal services officers are already out in the community fighting fires, responding to medical emergencies and reuniting pets with their owners. Having the additional scanners strategically located at fire stations throughout Volusia County adds another means to effectively serve the public. “Our motto — in most fire agencies around the world — is ‘Everybody goes home,’” Bailey said. “We want to include that with the pets. They, too, should go home.” Station 42 Lt. Paramedic Jeremy Karaginis is a self-proclaimed animal lover with two dogs of his own, both chipped. “This is a super great initiative,” he said. “As firefighters, anything we can do for the community to help, we look forward to every day.” The American Humane Association estimates that 1 in 3 pets will become lost at some point during their lives, but cats and dogs with registered microchips are much more likely to to be reunited with their families. That success is dependent upon pet owners ensuring that their registration information is kept up-to-date. A microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is usually inserted in between the shoulder blades of a dog or cat using a needle. Contrary to misinformation that has been circulated, the chip is not a GPS device. The pet is scanned upon its arrival at any county animal services facility or fire station and the coinciding microchip number is displayed on the scanner. The database is accessed at VCAS and the pet owner is contacted immediately. If necessary, the pet will be driven back to its home by an animal services officer.
Station 42 Lt. Paramedic Jeremy Karaginis talks about his love for animals and the importance of getting them microchipped.
PETS IN SHELTERS 2018-2019, there were over 223,145 pets in Volusia County. PETS BROUGHT IN TO LOCAL SHELTERS Volusia County......... 5,645 Ormond Beach......... 717 Holly Hill................... 208 Daytona Beach......... 1,691
“We have been offering free microchipping events for over a year-and-a-half,” Animal Services Officer Shawn Riggins said. “Some people think that since their pets don’t go outside on their own, they don’t need to microchip them. What about during a fire or hurricane? You never know. It’s better to be prepared in case of an emergency.” Volusia County’s next free pet microchipping event will be held at the Volusia County Fairgrounds on Sept. 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
OCTOBER 2021
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Knights to bring community together to honor Veterans More than 300 attended in both 2018 and 2019, but was not held last year due to pandemic. JOHN O’MALLEY KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
Our Lady of Hope Knights of Columbus Assembly 2794 will host its third Veterans Italian Dinner at the Father Raymond O’Leary Community Hall on Saturday, Nov. 6. The Fourth Degree Assembly is
working in cooperation with Our Lady of Hope Council 8086, with assistance from Sacred Heart Father Downey Council 4934 and Church of the Epiphany Council 12569. The dinner is set to begin at 6 p.m. following the 5 p.m. Mass. In light of the ongoing pandemic, take-out options will be available. Tickets for the dinner cost $10, and will be available beginning Oct. 16 at the Parish Office during business hours. The point of contact is DGK Dr. Ernie Jackson, 50chevy.pickup@gmail.com. The military-style dinner pays tribute to the many local veterans
Caring Connections helps isolated seniors
and active duty military personnel. The sold-out dinner attracted more than 300 parishioners and community members in both 2018 and 2019, but was not held last year due to the pandemic. Modeled after the military Dining-Out, a ceremonial tradition in all branches of service, the dinner is steeped in military history and customs, combined with some good old-fashioned fun. The after-dinner program includes guest speaks and military skits, highlighted by a punch bowl ceremony and toasts.
Courtesy photo
A group of World War II veterans were honored at the Assembly 2794 Veterans Italian Dinner at Our Lady of Hope in Port Orange.
Friendly phone calls from volunteers brighten spirits. JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Sometimes, a phone call can make a world of difference. Through ElderSource’s Caring Connections Telephone Reassurance Program, seniors who are homebound or living alone are able to receive a friendly phone call from a volunteer to liven up their spirits. With the aim to reduce feelings of isolation, loneliness, cognitive decline, depression and anxiety, the volunteers reach out to these seniors on a regular basis and chat about a variety of different topics — their family, the weather, what’s their watching on TV. That’s the approach volunteer Daniel Malone takes. He first got involved in the program about six months ago when his wife was looking for volunteer programs in the area. As Palm Coast snowbirds, they thought the flexibility offered by the program was well-suited for them. Plus, based on his own life experiences, Malone could relate to the clients. “I know what it’s like to be alone,” Malone said. “It’s a very painful place, and I’ve learned to do the opposite of that and share my experience, strength and hope and that feels really good.” ElderSource, an area agency on aging and the aging and disability resource center for Northeast
Florida based out of Jacksonville, launched Caring Connections at the end of 2020. Chief Executive Officer Linda Levin said that, even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic which has resulted in many seniors experiencing isolation, they had heard older adults express feelings of loneliness and feeling a disconnect with their families and community. The pandemic simply shed a spotlight on the issue, and Caring Connections is their effort to address that need. “The phone is an easy way to do that,” Levin said. “It’s lowtech, you don’t need a computer or smartphone even. It’s just a very informal, nonthreatening, friendly way to connect.” So far, ElderSource has 40 volunteers for its Caring Connections program, though Levin said many more are needed. Each volunteer typically only calls one client, with a maximum of three. The program has a waiting list, and with more volunteers, especially those who are bilingual, ElderSource can continue to help more people in this respect. An ideal volunteer, according to Levin, is one who is patient, listens well and likes conversation. And above all, they must be someone who doesn’t mind speaking on the phone. Visit myeldersource.org/caring-connections/
SAY GOODBYE TO VARICOSE VEINS! CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SEPTEMBER SAT. & SUN.
25 & 26
Visit our booth #180 at Port Orange Family Days!
NOVEMBER FRI.
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Business After Hours at SouthState Bank 5-7 PM 3615 Clyde Morris Blvd., Port Orange $5 members, $10 future members
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Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm For an appointment, please call
3060 S. ATLANTIC AVENUE IN DAYTONA BEACH SHORES, WED-FRI. 9A-5P.
PORT ORANGE | SOUTH DAYTONA
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VISIT OUR NEW SHORES ANNEX AT
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
Embry-Riddle robotics students win gold This marked the first time the Robotics Association at Embry-Riddle has won an AUVSI XCELLENCE Award, after finishing on top of several other competitions. MIKE CAVALIERE NEWS MANAGER, EMBRY-RIDDLE
RobotX
Courtesy photo
Located in the heart of Ormond Beach, 2 SEPERATE HOMES with a detached 24x24 2-story WORKSHOP/MANCAVE, on 1.14 acre w/ no HOA! The primary home features 4BD/3.5BA, bonus room, oversized 2-car garage, POOL, and solar panels integrated into the electric panel providing a significant reduction in electric bills. MLS#1087088 $750,000 Call Robert Gross 386-316-8711.
HARD TO FIND 3+ ACRES IN ORMOND BEACH! For the boater in the family there is a neighborhood boat ramp for Tomoka River. Bring your handyman for the 3BD/2BA home that includes living room, large kitchen with eat-in area and large bedrooms. MLS#1082259 $375,000 Call Brent Dennison 386-451-0161.
School districts tackle staffing challenges
SOUTH OAKS TOWNHOMES
Hosting hiring fairs, shifting resources and shuttering schools are some of the measures school district officials are taking as they grapple with shortages in crucial staffing positions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the school year began nearly a month ago, a growing number of school districts have gotten creative to address a shortage of bus drivers, cafeteria workers and other support staff. The hunt for bus drivers, a skilled position that is not easily replaceable, is most challenging. The problem has been exacerbated by growing staff absences caused by COVID-19 infections or quarantines. “Most districts across the state and the country are trying their best to find people that want to come drive school buses, because it’s a big commitment,” Gulf County Superintendent Jim Norton told The News Service of Florida in a recent interview. As COVID-19 cases among students mounted in Gulf County schools in the weeks following the return to classrooms last month, the strain on district staff became apparent. The need for bus drivers, food service workers and school support staff isn’t just an issue in small school districts. Pasco County, a district with a student enrollment of more than 77,000, has been shifting duties for some district staff to help keep school buses on the road.
MEDITERRANIAN CONDO
Move-in ready condominium in the heart of Port Orange. This home is nestled in a cozy subdivision lined with lush trees. Walkway leads up to a newly screened porch with a gorgeous tile floor. That same, wood look tile welcomes you in the expansive living space with new light fixtures and newer interior paint. MLS#1088423 $189,900 Call Jacob Scolaro 813-774-2187.
Move in ready, many upgrades, LVP flooring, stainless steel appliances, modern fans & lighting, 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom luxury Daytona Beach Shores condominium. Wake up in your master bedroom to ocean views and drink your morning beverage with unobstructed views of the river from the kitchen and main balcony. MLS#1088183 $595,000 Call Rosana Scaccia 347-247-8093.
Oceanfront gem encompasses over 2400 sq. Ft. Of living area with jetliner views from the Ocean to the River. Upon arrival, you have not 1 but 2 parking spaces and the secure access elevator whisks you to the 10th floor. The interior corridors provide a safe entry to the beautiful, southeast corner condominium residence. MLS#1088467 $789,000 Call Sandy Cook 386-547-1156.
Literally steps to the ocean. This home is situated in one of the most coveted Ormond beach locations. 2 bedroom 2 bath beauty nested on a 200’ x 100’ parcel in desirable Neptune, right by oceanside golf course, and with direct access to the ocean through Neptune beach approach. The property offers tons of possibilities. MLS#1086745 $589,900 Call Elena Scott 386-566-6984.
One of the few lots w/ just under 10 acres with direct access to the INDIAN RIVER & MOSQUITO LAGOON, a true fishing PARADISE! have your own private dock on the Indian River The parcel is surrounded by the National Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge with a front row seat to the Cape Canaveral rocket launches. MLS#1087494 $450,000 Call Brain Moffett 386-212-7598.
COUNTRY WALK OF PORT ORANGE
GRANDE CHAMPIONS Desirable beachside location! Move-in ready 3 bedroom 1 bath steps from the ocean! This beauty has a new roof, new hvac, almost all windows are new and new flooring in bedrooms and den. Ample living area that opens up to the recently updated kitchen( 2020) with new appliances, cabinets, and an eat-in area. MLS#1087619 $289,975 Call Christina Bovier 386-846-8284.
Homes fourth bedroom has been converted to large utility room with full bath and closet. Hardwood and tile floors throughout this spacious beauty. Custom kitchen with Granite counter tops. Home has new roof from 2010 & AC in 2017. Newly installed solar panels for electric with a transferable 25 year warranty to buyer. MLS#1088501 $420,000 Call Shane Reinhardt 813-808-1577.
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BRIEFS
2BD/2BA home has tons of space. Large living room with high ceilings for an open feel. Kitchen with plenty of counter and cabinet space. Separate dining area. The large back room can easily be converted to a 3rd bedroom. Outside sit on your private back patio while looking out over your back yard. MLS#1086271 $285,000 Call Mike Williams 386-689-2462.
RIVERFRONT VACANT LOT
IN LAW SUITE
With plenty of room for everyone this Southern Plantation is tucked away behind Riverbend Acres on a 2.5 acre private estate lot in desired Ormond Beach. Custom built home features distressed hickory wood flooring throughout the downstairs, grand foyer w/ custom wood staircase leading to the 2nd level. MLS#1083423 $1,350,000 Call Addam Ralston 386-566-1812.
Great 4 bedroom 2 bath home in desired Grande Champions section of LPGA. Large open foyer, split plan layout, open kitchen concept with granite counter tops. Screened covered back porch. 2 car garage on a quite cul-da-sac. MLS#1085276 $325,000 Call Lisa Keane 407-414-8096.
BEACHSIDE BUNGALOW
SPRAWLING SOUTHERN ESTATE
A beachside 3BD/2.5BA, 2 Car Garage, End Unit Townhouse. Situated off of A1A with a 3 minute walk to the Atlantic Sea Shore. The home was previously a furnished rental and could convey completely and tastefully furnished along with all the kitchen accoutrements and linens. MLS#1088444 $375,000 Call Leslie Wackerman 386-846-2549.
TOMOKA ESTATES
TOWNHOMES AT OCEANS
BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653) 2110 Oceanshore Blvd., Ste. B, Ormond Beach, FL 32176 PORT ORANGE OFFICE - 386-767-SOLD (7653) 840 Dunlawton Ave., Ste. D, Port Orange, FL 32127 COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565 140 S. Atlantic Ave , Ormond Beach, FL 32176 DAYTONA BEACH SHORES 3118 S. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
OCTOBER 2021
OCEAN & RIVER VIEWS
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CORPORATE OFFICE - 386-677-SOLD (7653) 900 West Granada Blvd., Ste. 3, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
via text and video assets. Next, the team will go on to compete in the Maritime RobotX Competition in Australia in 2022. “I congratulate this distinguished group for their tremendous growth during the difficult past year, and look forward to witnessing their future milestones,” said Brian Wynne, AUVSI president and CEO. “These organizations are at the leading edge of moving our industry toward a future of assured autonomy by supporting the integration of unmanned systems in safe, responsible and sustainable way.” The AUVSI XCELLENCE Awards honor innovators with a demonstrated commitment to advancing autonomy, leading, and promoting safe adoption of unmanned systems and developing programs that use these technologies to save lives and improve the human condition.
POOL HOME
“Having experience with the Robotics Association as a part of the RobotX Team has definitely played a huge role in getting us to where we are,” she said. “Classroom learning is important, but being able to dive deep into working on autonomous systems has given us a leg up. Companies are looking for how well you can work in a team on a complex problem, and RobotX has given us that experience.” Currently, both Barnes and fellow graduate student/former team leader Matt Helms, both from Niceville, Florida, are interning at Torc Robotics. “The work we are doing on the boat directly translates to work that is done in industry, and recruiters recognize that,” Helms added. Judging for this year’s competition was conducted remotely, through information submitted
BEACHSIDE DOUBLE LOT
Maritime RobotX Competition, so we organized a two-day public demonstration in January, simulating the competition.” Events like these helped to keep team members sharp, offering more of the same kind of realworld experience that Reinholtz believes will ultimately land students their first jobs. “Almost every employer prefers to hire students with the kinds of hands-on projects we offer,” he said. “Without a larger project to help students connect the pieces, knowledge gained in classes is usually compartmentalized and not easily transferred. I believe most students and employers will say that this type of project work is the most important aspect of a student’s education.” Former team co-lead Jamie Barnes, mechanical engineering master’s student on the program’s Robotic Systems track, agreed.
OAK HILL
Engineering students on Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Maritime RobotX Team brought home a first-place award last week, winning the top prize in the Hardware and Systems Design category for their autonomous vessel system at the Association for Unmanned Vehicles Systems International’s XPONENTIAL Conference, hosted in Atlanta. This also marked the first time the Robotics Association at Embry-Riddle has won an AUVSI XCELLENCE Award, after finishing on top of several other competitions — including AUVSI’s Intelligent Ground Vehicle AutoNav Competition earlier this year, as well as multiple top wins at the international RoboBoat competition. “The students have kept a positive attitude through the pandemic,” said Dr. Charlie Reinholtz, professor of mechanical engineering. “I know it was a huge disappointment for those planning to travel with the vessel to Hawaii last December for the
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Direct riverfront lot on prestigious John Anderson! This lot offers 90 ft of water frontage and it has been cleared. Build your dream home right on the intracoastal waterway, bring your boat and water toys and enjoy amazing sunsets. Only a couple of blocks from the beach and close proximity to the Tomoka Estate park. MLS#1084429 $900,000 Call Connor Feasel 386-846-2608.
PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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OCTOBER 2021
VCS now allows a parent opt-out for student face covering policy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
several times it went against her belief that masks protect students. She mentioned that a student walkout was scheduled last week at a local high school to protest masks, that students have been encouraged to wear shirts with anti-mask slogans and that teachers and principals have been harassed over the policy. A video of a mother causing a disturbance at Pathways Elementary over the policy circulated on social media. “Our classrooms, our campuses, are not to be used as places of contention,” Cuthbert said. “They are sacred ground. They are safe, learning environments for all.” Some parents who spoke at the meeting disagreed with the board’s decision to allow parents to opt out of the policy. DeLand mother Elizabeth Atlee Hall told the board that when members of a community choose personal freedom, the community must rely on governing bodies to establish policies for the good of everyone. She didn’t agree with the board backtracking on its stance because people refused to follow the policy. Previously, all students, with the exceptions of those in pre-K or ESE, had to wear a mask while on school grounds, unless they obtained a medical opt-out. “I just think this is a mistake,” Hall said. “We’re not giving it a chance. We have more cases now than we had all of last year combined, and we’re just going to throw it all out.” Others felt like the contention in the community rose from the board’s decision to mandate masks in the first place. Christine Ortiz, a DeLand teacher and parent, said she had not had one COVID-19 case in her 41-student class, and none had been quarantined either, despite only about five students wearing a mask consistently. “As a teacher, I am embarrassed about what is happening and the actions of the board turning fac-
“In the future when your child gets quarantined because they’re not wearing a mask, know that you accepted that risk as a parent, and that’s OK.” RUBEN COLON, Volusia County School Board member
ulty and staff against each other, causing division,” Ortiz said. “... As a parent, I am disappointed that you feel you know what is best for my children.” Colon said that while COVID-19 cases are decreasing, there is still a high number of schoolaged children contracting the virus. He warned parents that, based on the quarantining protocols the district adopted from the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention, children who are exposed to COVID-19 and are not wearing a mask will be sent home to quarantine. Children who have been exposed but are wearing a mask will not. “In the future, when your child gets quarantined because they’re not wearing a mask, know that you accepted that risk as a parent, and that’s OK,” Colon said. “… Nobody is picking on your child because this is very clear that if they are exposed they will be going home for five days until they come back negative, where a student who is wearing a mask will not be going home for five days.” Parents who choose to opt out of the policy can do so via their Parent Portal accounts, if they have signed up, where they may electronically complete the opt-out form. Parents can also print out a form at https://bit.ly/3Ch75D1 The employee and visitor mask policy will remain in effect until Oct. 15. Should masks be required? Send letters to jarleene@ormondbeachobserver.com.
Federal judge refuses to block DeSantis’ mask order THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA
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A federal judge Wednesday, Sept. 15, rejected a request by parents of disabled children to block Gov. Ron DeSantis’ efforts to prevent school districts from requiring students to wear masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Judge K. Michael Moore issued a 34-page ruling that denied a request for a preliminary injunction against an executive order that DeSantis issued July 30. The executive order led to the Florida Department of Health issuing a rule that required districts to allow parents to opt out of any student mask mandates. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Miami, contends that the executive order violated the Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws designed to protect the rights of students with disabilities. But Moore wrote Wednesday that the plaintiffs should have pursued administrative claims
before the lawsuit. Such administrative claims, he wrote, are required under a federal law known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Moore said plaintiffs in the case have different circumstances, demonstrating “that there are unique problems facing plaintiffs, which require unique solutions.” “The court finds all plaintiffs would be substantially benefited by pursuing administrative remedies that can provide tailored solutions to each child’s individual needs,” Moore wrote. The ruling was a victory for DeSantis, who has faced challenges in state and federal courts while contending that parents should be able to decide whether children wear masks in schools. The state has threatened the salaries of school officials who do not comply, but some districts have bucked the state and are only allowing students to opt out of mask requirements if they have doctors’ notes.
PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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OCTOBER 2021
BUSINESS OBSERVER Development, real estate + business news Area’s home sales slowed during July The sales are 8% lower than the number of homes sold in June. HEATHER SCOFIELD WYSE HOME TEAM REALTY
Median sales prices rose again as Daytona Beach home sales dipped for the first time in months. An analysis of Daytona Beach Multiple Listing Service data by Wyse Home Team Realty showed that 510 existing single-family homes (detached) were sold in the Daytona Beach area during July with a median home sales price of $326,250. The sales are 8% lower than the number of homes sold in June. It’s 16% lower than the number of home sales in July 2020, and 3% lower than in July 2019. Sales volume was down slightly from June but was 4.5% higher than July 2020, when home values were lower. The median sale price rose 21% from July 2020 and was almost 2% higher than in June. Year to date, home sales are up nearly 12% and the median home sales price is 19.5% higher than the same seven-month period in 2020. July 2021: 510 sales, $206,191,910 sales volume, $326,250 median sales price. July 2020: 609 sales $196,941,537 sales volume,
$269,900 median sales price. July 2019: 527 sales $157,707,463 sales volume, $242,900 median sales price. June 2021: 555 sales, $213,331,475 sales volume, $320,000 median sales price. June 2020: 534 sales $163,469,879 sales volume, $260,000 median sales price. Year-To-Date 2021: 3,384 sales, $1,270,944,983 sales volume, $305,000 median sales price. Year-To-Date 2020: 3,026 sales $916,085,343 sales volume, $255,000 median sales price. “This is the first dip in home sales we’ve seen for months,” said Daytona Beach Area Realtor Ron Wysocarski, broker and CEO of Wyse Home Team Realty in Port Orange. “Home sales last summer may not be a good basis of comparison because the market was trying to catch up after big pandemic related closures. But last month’s home sales also fell slightly below July 2019 when market conditions were stable. So it’s something we’re watching.” The number of homes listed on the MLS rose 3% in July over June, but remained 32% lower than the number of homes listed during July 2020. Year to date, listings are down 15.5% over the same sevenmonth period in 2020. July 2021 Inventory: 1,248 single family home listings were
BIZ BUZZ JOBLESS CLAIMS TICK UP, AS RELIEF PROGRAMS END
active at some point during the month. July 2020 Inventory: 1,836 single family home listings were active at some point during the month. June 2021 Inventory: 1,207 single family home listings were active at some point during the month. Year-To-Date 2021 Inventory: 4,782 single family home listings were active at some point. Year-To-Date 2020 Inventory: 5,676 single family home listings were active at some point. Sales were down slightly in Port Orange and up in Ormond Beach. The median sales price on the beachside was up, and New Smyrna Beach was home to the highest the median sales price at $444,838. Ormond Beach: 135 sales, $395,000 median sales price. Mainland Daytona (Including Holly Hill and South Daytona): 87 sales, $252,000 median sales price. Beachside (Ormond-by-theSea to Ponce Inlet): 76 sales, $394,500 median sales price. Port Orange: 92 sales, $332,500 median sales price. New Smyrna Beach: 58 sales, $444,838 median sales price.
Jobless claims in Florida inched up for the second consecutive week, as two federal unemployment-aid programs tied to the COVID-19 pandemic came to an end The U.S. Department of Labor on Thursday, Sept. 2, reported an estimated 8,270 first-time unemployment claims were filed in Florida during the week that ended Aug. 28, up from a revised count of 7,977 for the week ending Aug. 21. The agency had initially estimated 6,494 initial claims were filed in Florida during the week that ended Aug. 21. The totals for both weeks, along with a four-week average of 6,896 claims, remain at pre-pandemic levels. They also come as two federal assistance programs — known as the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation programs — ended on Monday, Sept. 6. Another federal program, which provided $300 a week to unemployed people in addition to state benefits, was halted by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration in June. The administration pointed to a need to spur people back into the workforce. A Leon County circuit judge this week rejected a challenge to the decision to end that program, known as the Federal
Send business stories to jarleene@ormondbeachobserver. com.
Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program. “Florida businesses and employers are hiring across the state and need unemployed Floridians to return to the workforce,” the state Department of Economic Opportunity said in a recent news release that addressed the upcoming expiration of the other programs. “There continues to be many job opportunities available for Floridians throughout the state, with more than 545,000 jobs posted online.” But Andrew Stettner, a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a progressive New York-based think tank, cautioned that the expiration of federal benefits nationally will “suck out $5 billion in spending from the economy each week.” “Based on numerous studies and data from states cutting off benefits early, we know that this sudden expiration will not spur hiring, but rather rob the economy of critical consumer spending,” Stettner said in a prepared statement. “And, with eviction protections ending at the same time, long-term unemployed workers are now vulnerable to lasting economic damage.” The programs that expired Monday offer up to $275 a week to people ineligible for state unemployment compensation and extend the weeks unemployed people can receive benefits. They stem from the CARES Act federal stimulus law and have provided more than $5.56 billion to Floridians. Since mid-May, Florida has averaged fewer than 10,000 new claims a week.
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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OCTOBER 2021
Now Open: Emergency Care Close to Home AdventHealth Port Orange ER* AdventHealth has enhanced world-class emergency care for the residents of Port Orange with the grand opening of our newest emergency room. This state-of-the-art ER seamlessly connects you to the award-winning services of the extensive AdventHealth Care Network.
Select features of our newest ER include: • 24 new private rooms • Board-certified emergency physicians and nurses • Dedicated pediatric emergency care backed by nationally recognized AdventHealth for Children, including two rooms designed just for kids • Diagnostic imaging (CT, ultrasound, X-rays) for ER patients • 24/7 access to a pharmacist for ER patients
Go to the #1 ER in Central Florida.
*This emergency department is part of AdventHealth Daytona Beach and this is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates.
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