August/September 2025

President's Remarks

The LWVVC has started off our 2025-26 year with a clear vision for success. We have a great board of directors who have unique strengths to complement each other in goal setting, strategic planning and creating programs that Volusia County cares about. We reviewed these elements at our annual Planning Retreat on May 20th, and came up with a very full slate of compelling programs! Stay tuned to both The Voter and our website for upcoming events. 

Our first meeting of the year was on July 16th. As part of that meeting the following Directors were appointed: Lynn Balaban, Carla Christianson, Bonnie Friedman, Nancy Nusbaum, and Ann Smith. We welcome them all in addition to our elected Board Members. Find out all about them here.

Kicking off the year, our first meeting will be an Advocacy Workshop. If you would like to make your voice heard to bring about change, and hear expert advice from Volusia County Council member David Santiago, join us August 16th. See below for more information.

I am grateful to our members for always stepping up to support our work whenever the need arises. Your membership is critical to our organization and as a reminder, it is time to renew our dues, if you have not already done so. To renew your dues, go to our webpage and click the JOIN button on the top of the page where you can renew via PayPal or send us a check at the address provided on the website.

Again, it is a privilege to serve as your president and I thank each of you for being part of the League.

In League,

Nancy Vaughn, President LWVVC

president@lwvcc.org

Pat Drago and Kimberly Cline​ attended the LWVFL 2025–2027 State Convention in June, where the agenda included the essentials: budget, program planning, local League reports, dynamic speakers, bylaws updates, and the election of a new LWVFL Board. The newly elected Board signals a shift in direction for our organization, and we’ll be watching closely as this new chapter unfolds.

A powerful thread ran through the entire Convention, especially within the workshops: a recognition that, to truly be the Defenders of Democracy we aspire to be, we must re-learn how to engage - really engage - with our neighbors and communities. Effective communication is our most critical tool.

Here are just a few of the workshop titles that reflect this renewed focus:

•    Making Democracy Work – Non-partisan voter outreach in The Villages (Kim & Pat)

•    Advocate Like a Pro – Demystifying Florida public school funding (Pat)

•    The Intersection of Healthcare and Democracy

•    Imagine Democracy – Fostering constructive community dialogue about the future (Pat)

•    Next Generation Voters – Engaging youth to build a stronger democracy (Kim)

•    Together, Stronger – Collaborating with other League units and organizations (Kim)

It’s clear that our focus is expanding toward being more effective and achieving a broader reach within our communities. As the Convention came to a close, our new LWVFL President, Jessica Lowe-Minor, shared a message of hope and determination for our transformation, not only in the way we manage dues, but in how we embody the organization our state and nation need right now.

This is our strength. Now is the time to tone and flex our democratic muscles!

LWVVC members Kimberly Cline (left) and Pat Drago, take time to congratulate newly elected State League President, Jessica Lowe, (center) before leaving the convention on Saturday night.

Membership renewal time is upon us for most members whose annual membership lapsed on June 30th. In the past all members’ due date was at the end of our fiscal year, June 30.  Now, with the new platform, due dates are rolling. Anyone who joined after January 2024 has a rolling renewal date one year from joining. 

Everyone will receive an email reminder on the first of the month that their membership lapses.  We also sent a Constant Contact message to all that are due to renew.  Check your junk folder in case the alert got trapped there. 

Thank you to all members who renewed in a timely manner. But we still have people who have not re-upped their membership.   We value your membership and the energy you put into working toward our mission.

You were asked to visit your membership record in the portal at https://portal.lwv.org months ago to determine your due date and verify your information.

Now is the time to renew your commitment to the organization,

our democracy mission and what we stand for. 

You sign in with your email address that we have on record and you will receive a pass code by email.  You then enter it and fill out your payment form. The new suggested dues are $75.00. We no longer have household members so now each spouse has an individual membership. Be careful to renew and not set up another membership. Anyone who renews must use their individual email.  

If you have any problems, please contact me at OAH@Vyndicar.com. Thank you for attending to this soon. 

Olga Hernandez,

Membership Roster Manager

League of Women Voters of Volusia County Action Teams

• Education – Pat Drago
• Growth Management – Saralee Morrissey
• Membership – Bonnie Friedman
• Membership Roster - Olga Hernandez
• Speakers Bureau – Ann Smith
• Natural Resources – Patricia Gertenbach
• Media/Publicity/IT – Kimberly Cline

• Observer Corp – Cindy Wakeland
• Voter Service – Nancy Nusbaum
• Women’s Issues – Alicia Keenon
• Programs - Carla Christianson
• Social Justice – Vacant
• Fundraising – Vacant
• Legislative Team - Vacant

If you are a member, come to our meetings, and just like to support the League, we have T-shirts and name tags! The name tags are classy with a magnetic backing that won't ruin your clothes.

T-shirts and name tags are $20 each.

Contact Kimberly Cline to order yours today!

kim@kimberlycline.com

How Can I Make a Difference?

Advocacy Workshop

If you feel that things are out of control and you want to do something, join us August 16th for an advocacy workshop. This is an opportunity to gain tools to help you get started.

We are excited that David Santiago, who has served as a member of the Volusia County Council starting in 2023, will be our speaker. He previously served in the Florida House of

Representatives from 2012 to 2020 and on the Deltona City Commission from 2003 to 2007.

Council Member Santiago will discuss what has been effective when voters contacted him. He will share his experience at different levels of government.

After the presentation we will practice ways our members can become effective advocates for change and how to best frame the message.

When: Saturday, August 16, 2025

Time: 10:30 am

Location: Volusia United Educators 1381 Educators Road, Daytona Beach, FL 32124



Please RSVP with Jeanne Tanke: jeanne622lwvvc@gmail.com by August 13 so we can plan for sufficient handouts

Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is a United States observance on September 17, the day in 1787 on which delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia.

To celebrate Constitution Day, we are delighted to have Don Sarro, a dedicated and experienced educator with decades of teaching experience at the secondary level. Currently Don teaches A.P. and Honors Government at University High School.

Mr. Saro will explore the courts’ role in our democracy, addressing theories of constitutional interpretation (like originalism and living constitutionalism), and the limits placed on the courts when faced with political questions. He will talk about the confusion and controversy our country is experiencing as the Constitution has become the center of so many issues we are dealing with today.

Following the meeting you are invited to join us for an optional dinner and conversation at the Corkscrew Bar & Grill, 235 Canal Street, New Smyrna Beach.

Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: New Smyrna Beach Library, 1001 S Dixie Fwy, New Smyrna Beach

Please RSVP by Sept 1st if you are attending, and let us know if you are joining us for dinner. Jeanne Tanke: jeanne622lwvvc@gmail.com

On Saturday morning, September 20^th we are participating again in the Annual International Coastal Cleanup.

We’re thrilled to announce that Volusia County will once again participate in the Worldwide International Coastal Cleanup - a global effort to protect our precious waterways. The event will take place at various locations along our Volusia beaches on the morning of Saturday, September 20th. See the Natural resources article in this issue for more information.

Sign up by contacting Pattie Gertenbach at pgertenbachp01@gmail.com

The West Volusia Local Leaguers recently gathered at Bonnie Friedman’s home for a candid discussion on maintaining positivity, optimism, and health during challenging times. This proactive meeting underscores the widely acknowledged connection between our mindset and physical well-being.

The group shared personal strategies for keeping spirits up, a positive attitude, and behavior constructive. It’s inspiring to see our members prioritizing mental and physical resilience, setting a powerful example for others. 

Watch your emails for an invitation to attend a repeat of this get together for our east coast members sometime in August.  

The League is connecting with Volusia County’s younger generations!   Get ready Volusia County! We’re thrilled to announce two fantastic Meet & Greet events designed specifically for younger parents and working professionals. These aren’t just any gatherings, they’re the exciting outcome of our July think tank, where we dove deep into understanding the unique needs of this vibrant group. 

Do you know someone who is eager to learn more about how our League makes a real impact? Now’s your chance! Please reach out to me and I will make sure they receive a personal invitation to one of these relaxed, informative, and engaging events. 

  *August 26^th 5:00-6:30 at the chic Madeline’s Wine Bar in Daytona Beach

  *September (specific date & time to be announced) at the charming Novel Tea Bookshop in Ormond Beach

A special shout-out to our amazing hosts and Think Tank members: Melanie Novy, Ashley Pirtle, Ashley Sipos, Kelley Bookhardt, Meghan Duran, Stephanie Gonter, Kimberly Cline, and Deb Ulmer

If you would like more information about one of these programs, want to be a part of the dynamic Membership Outreach team, or are willing to host a Meet & Greet for your friends and neighbors please contact me at bonnietunes@yahoo.com or call or text 407-312-4944.  I would love to hear from you.

Bonnie Friedman, Membership Outreach Director

Natural Resources Action Team

Soak Up Summer - Then Suit Up for Beach Cleanup!

Summer is here in full swing - vacations, backyard cookouts, summer reading, and lazy days on the beach. But just around the corner looms the fall season, and with it comes the return of school, community engagement, and our annual BEACH CLEANUP!

We’re thrilled to announce that Volusia County will once again participate in the Worldwide International Coastal Cleanup - a global effort to protect our precious waterways. This year’s 2025 International Coastal & Halifax/Indian River Cleanup will take place on the morning of Saturday, September 20th.

For the past two years, a few dedicated members of our League have proudly participated. But in 2025, we’re dreaming BIG. Let’s show up in full force and let our LWV Volusia County presence shine!

💙 How to Join the Cleanup:

• Sign up by contacting Pattie Gertenbach at pgertenbachp01@gmail.com
• Let her know you’re in! Once the list of locations is posted, Pattie will confirm your preferred cleanup site.
• The first 1,000 registered volunteers will receive a promotional item featuring the official International Coastal Cleanup logo.

Let’s demonstrate the power of civic involvement while protecting the beautiful beaches and riverfronts we cherish. Every piece of litter collected is a win for marine life and a healthier future.

All LWV Volusia County members are welcome and ENCOURAGED to participate! Your participation helps raise visibility for our mission: promoting informed voter engagement and environmental advocacy. We also have LWVVC T-shirts available for $20. Let Pattie know if you would like to purchase one or look at the Merch post above in this Voter.

A Year of Impact: Natural Resources Team Highlights 🌿

At our May Natural Resources Team (NRT) meeting, we gave a heartfelt farewell (for now!) to our longtime NRT Chair, Nancy Vaughn, as she stepped into her new role as LWVVC President! Congratulations, Nancy!

In her final meeting as NRT Co-chair, Nancy shared a proud summary of our accomplishments from the past year:

• Led an election sign recycling initiative—thank you Suze Peace for her leadership and Lisa Lewis (and her amazing Elections Office team who provided manpower and a truck!).

• Hosted a timely Rising Waters panel focused on flooding, a top concern in our county.

• Attended and spoke at our elected officials’ delegation meeting to advocate for community environmental priorities.

• In collaboration with several other state and local organizations, signed-on to a letter to the Volusia County Council voicing concerns about the use of Volusia Forever funds to help purchase land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor for a motocross facility. Although citizens and organizations expressed strong opposition to the location and funding, the County Council voted to move forward with the acquisition.

• Took insightful field trips to Rodman Dam and “The Island,” remnants of the (thankfully) abandoned Cross Florida Barge Canal.  

We are proud of all we’ve accomplished—and motivated to do even more.

Enjoy your summer, stay inspired, and we hope to see you on the sand for the 40th Annual International Coastal Cleanup on September 20, 2025!

Pattie Gertenbach, gertenbachp01@gmail.com

Natural Resources Chair

During this year’s legislative session, the Florida Legislature adopted a bill which affects local governments’ ability to amend existing and/or adopt new regulations that impact land development. The bill went into effect on July 1 and applies retroactively from August 1, 2024 through October 1, 2027.

Known as Senate Bill 180 (SB 180), the legislation includes restrictions after certain natural emergencies. Specifically, as it relates to Volusia County, SB 180 provides that due to Hurricane Milton, the county and its municipalities cannot propose or adopt

• any moratorium on construction, reconstruction, or redevelopment of any property damaged by such hurricanes
• more restrictive or burdensome amendments to its comprehensive plan or land development regulations or
• more restrictive or burdensome procedures concerning review, approval, or issuance of a site plan, development permit, or development order.

The legislation also applies to a county listed in a federal disaster declaration located entirely or partially within 100 miles of the track of a hurricane, or a municipality located within such a county, for one year after a hurricane makes landfall. Given the propensity for hurricanes to continue to impact Florida, the legislation has the potential to extend beyond October 1, 2027.

In the February/March issue of The Voter, I wrote extensively about the County’s Environment and Natural Resources Advisory Committee (ENRAC). This included a review of recommended changes to the county’s stormwater management ordinance, amongst other things. As a result of SB 180, ENRAC’s work is adversely impacted. This includes all potential amendments to as well as new regulations related to wetlands, floodplains, trees, basically anything that can be considered more restrictive or burdensome on development. 

At its July 2, 2025 meeting, ENRAC was advised by the County Attorney’s office of the legislation and its impact. The committee is now considering a recommendation to County Council that its work and future meetings should be placed in abeyance. .

Once again, we see an example by our state legislature that they deem themselves to be better decision makers of local issues than our local elected officials.  This issue can only be addressed and revisited by our state legislators; we must consider making the issue of home rule a legislative priority for the League.

Saralee Morrissey, GMAT Chair

saraleemorrissey@gmail.com

The mission of the League is to

Defend Democracy and Empower Voters

Because these are challenging times for voters and for our democracy we are holding a workshop on Saturday, August 16 to help us achieve our mission.

To kick off the morning, David Santiago to join us to discuss how to communicate with elected officials.  His involvement at the various levels of government gives him insight that will be very informative

Following Mr. Santiago, we will look at ways to become involved and be more effective when advocating.

The League of Women Voters has created a toolbox for dealing with the challenges of the present political situation. We want to give a brief overview of that toolbox.

There is a program called ASSET FRAMING, created by Trabian Shorters, that has been used by many non-profits, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, large and small corporations, and is suggested by The League of Women Voters as a very effect skill. We will look at how Asset Framing changes our perspective as well as those with whom we speak. In breakout groups we will apply the skills presented.

We want to hear from you. Please plan to come and add your voice to the conversation.

See UPCOMING EVENTS to register for the Advocacy Workshop on August 16.

The Education Action Team meets July 28 at 3 PM by Zoom.

We are planning school visits to Beachside Elementary and Deltona Middle. Dates to be announced.



Carolyn Carbonell will represent Volusia on the LWVFL Education Action Team calls. The group is very active and informative. The legislative session will take on more meaning with Carolyn’s representation for us.

School grades are out. Volusia District is an “A” district for the first time. The team wants to understand how much of that is attributable to proficiency and how much to learning gains. This will be a topic at a future meeting. How will Volusia compare with other Florida districts and on national norms?

We need to set the course for the year ahead. How do we continue our support for public education in this political environment and still serve as good government stewards?

Pat Drago, Education Action Team Chair

patddrago@aol.com

Your LWVVC Speakers Bureau is ready to speak to any group who would like a program, especially on any of the topics listed below. We feel that the first one is of primary importance for all citizens as the media field becomes more complex, and we are continually bombarded with “truths” - but are they?

Contact Ann Smith, 386-235-3957 or ahsmith5@bellsouth.net if you or any group to which you belong is interested in having a League speaker for an upcoming program. Most presentations are 30 minutes long plus Q and A.

News: Separating Fact from Fiction

o  This presentation explains how to examine if News stories are presented with bias, or entirely false.

 Your Voice, Your Power, Your Vote

o  An explanation of the hard-fought battle of getting the right to vote for ALL Americans. In 1776, only 10% of Americans had the right to vote. Learn about how voting rights were expanded and the important benefits, as well as rights and responsibilities, for citizens who turn out and vote.

Civics and Critical Thinking

o  How federal, state, and local governments work; rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship; critical think and how to evaluate the credibility of information sources

Women’s Suffrage

o  The year 2020 marked the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution which gave women the right to vote. This PowerPoint recounts the sacrifices of activists whose tireless efforts from 1848 to 1920 culminated in women’s suffrage.

League of Women Voters of Volusia County

o   Who are we and what do we do

I look forward to hearing from many of you. 



Ann Smith, 386-235-3957 or ahsmith5@bellsouth.net

Speakers Bureau Chair

Observer Corps Reports

We need observers!

You don't have to live there to be an observer for the Observer Corps!

You can share the responsibility with another LWVVC member. The function of the Observer Corps is to attend and observe meetings, and submit short reports for The Voter.

If you want to become an Observer and learn what this responsibility entails, please contact Cindy Wakeland at cwakeland905@gmail.com

To view a PDF of the observer reports submitted by the Observer Corps members, please click HERE. You can download and read at your leisure.

Support the League of Women Voters of Volusia County directly by donating!

You will support free informational programs and the important work we do!