- December 26, 2024
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Mayor Bill Partington presents the ACE Award to Florida's Secretary of Transportation Jared Perdue. Photo by Sierra Williams
Mayor Bill Partington presents the ACE Award to Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce Chair Eva Connors McMullin. Photo by Sierra Williams
Mayor Bill Partington presents the ACE Award to Reality Pro Title President Billie Jo Kaler. Photo by Sierra Williams
Mayor Bill Partington presents the ACE Award for Foundation Risk Partners CEO Charlie Lydecker to Rich Cooper, who accepted on Lydecker's behalf. Photo by Sierra Williams
At the 2024 Ormond Beach State of the City address on Oct. 15, Mayor Bill Partington recognized four individuals and one family for their contributions to the Ormond Beach community.
Florida's Secretary of transportation Jared Perdue, Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce Chair Eva Connors McMullin, Reality Pro Title President Billie Jo Kaler, Foundation Risk Partners CEO Charlie Lydecker and the Penland family were each given the Award for Citizen Engagement by Partington. The ACE Award, he said, recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to Ormond Beach.
“These individuals have gone above and beyond in their efforts to improve and strengthen our community, each in their own unique way,” Partington said. “Today, we celebrate their dedication leadership and the positive impact they've had on our city.”
Perdue, Partington said, has played a "pivotal role" in advocating for and securing critical infrastructure funding for Ormond Beach, including for the Interstate 95 interchange project.
McMullin has been a long-time advocate for business in Ormond Beach, but has also been a leading voice in protecting the city, in particular against the Belvedere fuel farm project, the mayor said.
Kaler is a "dynamic leader whose community involvement has made a lasting impact on Ormond Beach," Partington said, pointing out her commitment to both the business community and nurturing local talent and educational opportunities.
The Penland family could not attend to receive their award, given for their decision to sell 19 acres of environmentally sensitive land in Ormond Beach for conservation. It is Ormond Beach’s first partnership with the Volusia Forever, an outdoor recreation and conservation program.
Rich Cooper accepted the award on behalf of Lydecker, who was recognized for his community involvement in the YMCA renovations, involvement in numerous local organizations and his decision to anchor his company in Ormond Beach.
