By HENRY FREDERICK / Headline Surfer
ORLANDO, Fla. -- For better or for worse, these were the Top 100 stories in 2025 in Central Florida in The Year That Was. First up: Nos. 81-100.
81. Happy 79th Birthday Frank Bruno: Volusia's first elected county chair
PONCE INLET, Fla. -- Today, Oct. 30, on his 79th birthday, Frank Bruno, Volusia's first elected county chair, is on a cruise in the Caribbean with his wife, Mary Bruno.
Here is what she posted: "Frank and I are enjoying a Viking Cruise to Central America, including the Panama Canal. Frank was stationed in Panama during the Vietnam War, and he is excited to get back and see the changes."
Mary Bruno added, "We are with our friends, Gary and Darlene from Virginia. So far, we have spent a day in Cozumel, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras. Next stop: Costa Rica, then the Panama Canal and Panama City."
Bruno was the countywide face of politics for 20-plus years, his last eight as the first-ever elected county chair before he stepped off the dais in 2012. But not before his colleagues re-named the county council chambers in his honor: The Frank T. Bruno Jr. County Council chambers.
After retiring from countywide elected office, Bruno, who lives in Ponce Inlet with his wife, became a real estate agent.
Frank Bruno was the inaugural entrant in the Headline Surfer Hall of Fame in 2016.
82. Spectacular Bike Week race at DIS: Josh Herrin wins third consecutive Daytona 200 motorcycle race
Headline Surfer graphic / Josh Herrin wins his 3rd straight Daytona 200 race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. He's shown crossing the finish line in the inset. Below: Photo courtesy J. Herin Facebook page / Josh Herin is shown during a pit stop.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- The 83rd running of the Daytona 200 in March was one for the books as Josh Herrin won his third consecutive Daytona 200 to cap off the 84th annual Bike Week Presented by GEICO races at Daytona International Speedway.
Herrin secured his fourth overall DAYTONA 200 victory and made history by becoming the first rider to win three Daytona 200s in a row.
Herrin, a California native and rider for Warhorse HSBK Ducati, persevered through two red flags and was dominant through the final stint of the race on his Ducati Panigale V2 bike, winning by 5.330 seconds over Richie Escalante and Tyler Scott, who finished second and third.
Herrin made the most of his opportunities throughout the day, overcoming trouble exiting his pit with 16 laps to go, cementing himself among the legends who have been victorious at Daytona International Speedway.
Herrin joined a list of stars from the two-wheeled world who cemented their legacy in their respective racing disciplines with a win at Daytona International Speedway over the 10 days of events.
YouTube download / MotoAmerica full race video / Josh Herrin wins the 2025 Daytona 200.
83. Osceola County Sheriff's Office: Three Kissimmee men arrested on warrants stemming from gang-related shooting incident in February
Photos for Headline Surfer / These are the mugshots (left to right) of Zakarai Degrasse, 19; Kymani Enwright, 24; and Errick Melton, 21 arrested on felony warrants by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office in connection with an alleged shooting incident.
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Three local men have been arrested on felony warrants stemming from a shooting incident last month in the area of Black Lake Road in which shots were fired into an occupied motor vehicle, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office said.
The victim, whose name was withheld by the OCSO, was not injured in the shooting incident on Feb. 19.
Zakarai Degrasse, 19; Kymani Enwright, 24; and Errick Melton, 21; were each charged with felony counts of shooting into an occupied vehicle, discharging a firearm from a vehicle, and aggravated assault with intent to commit a felony.
Here is a synopsis of what happened as described in an email alert to Headline Surfer: On Feb. 19th, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a Shooting into an occupied vehicle in the area of Black Lake Road in Kissimmee.
It was determined that the victim had been confronted earlier in the evening while at work regarding leaving this decision to leave a local gang of which he used to be a member.
Later in the evening, as the victim was leaving his job, the suspects attempted to block his vehicle while he was in the parking lot. However, the victim was able to flee. The suspects then pursued him in two separate vehicles and pulled alongside him once the victim reached the area of Black Lake Road. Once beside the victim’s vehicle, one of the suspects began shooting, striking the victim’s vehicle while he was inside.
Fortunately, the victim was not struck and was able to flee the scene and call 9-1-1. Detectives were able to identify the suspects in this case and obtain arrest warrants. All three were being held without bail at the Osceola County Jail. No other information was released.
84. Altamonte Springs cops release artist sketch of man who assaulted three women after dark
Image for Headline Surfer / ABOVE: Composite sketch by the Altamonte Springs Police Department released Monday, March 17, 2025, in Altamonte Springs, Florida.
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FLA. - The Altamonte Springs Police Department has released a composite sketch of a man suspected of approaching women alone recently and assaulting them after dark.
The sketch is based on facial details described by one of his victims, police said, adding the recent assaults happened just off Interstate 4 at State Road 436.
The artist's sketch sketch and additional details regarding his appearance were released Monday by Altamonte Springs cops as follows:
"The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s or 30s, approximately 5'9" tall with a slim build. He has dark hair, dark eyes, and mild acne on both cheeks. He wore dark clothing with white shoes. In one instance, he was seen wearing a dark-colored mask.
"The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s or 30s, approximately 5'9" tall with a slim build. He has dark hair, dark eyes, and mild acne on both cheeks. He wore dark clothing with white shoes. In one instance, he was seen wearing a dark-colored mask.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents or who can identify the suspect is urged to call the Altamonte Springs Police Department at (407) 339-2441 or dial 9-1-1. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crimeline for a possible reward at 800-423-TIPS.
85. Seminole County Commissioner Amy Linville Lockhart: county's office of economic development & tourism accredited for first time
Headline Surfer photos / LEFT: Seminole County, Florida's tourism hot spots are a major draw here in Central Florida with a variety of hotel & lodging accommodations, scenic lakes, rivers, parks, and hiking trails. And, of course, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, aka the Sanford Zoo. LEFT: The geography of Seminole County and fun things to do on vacation. BELOW: Seminole County Commissioner Amy Linville Lockhart is shown with other county officials announcing a new tourism and marketing accreditation.
SANFORD, Fla. -- The Seminole County Office of Economic Development and Tourism recently earned accreditation for the first time from the globally recognized Destination Marketing Accreditation Program.
Seminole County is nestled in the outskirts of the metro Orlando tourism market, within a 30-minute drive downtown along the Interstate 4 corridor to Disney and the major attractions, but far enough away for families vacationers here to enjoy the scenic offerings - from boating to hiking or a day at the Sanford Zoo. And still, it's only a 45-minute drive east on I-4 to the beaches in Daytona and New Smyrna.
"This recognizes Seminole County's excellence in the destination marketing and management industry," Seminole County Commissioner Amy Lockhart said, adding, "This is the first time Seminole County has earned this distinctive accreditation, which will be in place for the next five years."
"This recognizes Seminole County's excellence in the destination marketing and management industry,"Seminole County Commissioner Amy Linville Lockhart said, adding, "This is the first time Seminole County has earned this distinctive accreditation, which will be in place for the next five years."
Seminole County successfully meets over 100 performance standards that span a variety of areas related to the management and marketing of a destination, including governance, finance, sales, research, development, and more, according to the accreditation notes.
In 2023, Seminole County generated 3% of the total visitor spending in Central Florida, which amounted to $58.5 billion, meaning Seminole County's share was around $1.755 billion, according to tourism revenue figures in the Sunshine State.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Central Florida Tourism Spending:
In 2023, Central Florida's tourism industry generated a record $92.5 billion in economic impact, with visitor spending reaching $58.5 billion.
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Seminole County's Share:
Of that total spending, 85% was in Orange County, 12% in Osceola County, and the remaining 3% in Seminole County.
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Seminole County's Estimated Tourism Revenue:
This translates to approximately $1.755 billion (3% of $58.5 billion) in visitor spending within Seminole County.
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Economic Impact:
Seminole County's tourism industry has a significant economic impact, with the Boombah Sports Complex alone generating over $251 million in total economic impact and 127,000 room nights for hotels since opening in 2016.
86. Kem McNair pic: Majestic reddish egret touches down in the Atlantic waters of New Smyrna Beach
Kem McNair photo for Headline Surfer / Reddish egret shown along the coastal waters of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. McNair is shown here as well.
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. -- What a beautiful sight!
Check out this majestic reddish egret along the Ponce Inle. Photographer and surfer extraordinaire Kem McNair, a longtime resident of New Smyrna Beach, captured the image back in March.
"A shot I got of a reddish Egret a while back," McNair posted on his Facebook page. "They are pretty stunning creatures!"
McNair describes this reddish egret's movements: "They use their wings to scare fish and make shadows. They are always doing this move!"
Over the years, McNair has captured countless nature shots of all kinds of critters, such as wild birds, sharks, and other aquatic wildlife.
87. Small plane makes emergency landing on DeLand roadway after falling short of airport
Photo for Headline Surfer / A small aircraft safely landed on International Speedway Boulevard after failing to land at the DeLand Municipal Airport on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in DeLand, Florida, according to the authorities. There were no injuries.
DELAND, Fla. -- A small plane reportedly experienced engine failure on approach to DeLand Airport and was unable to make it to the runway. So the pilot did the next best thing: He landed along International Speedway Boulevard just east of Kepler Road, Volusia County Sheriff's deputies said in an online post.
Two people on board - a student pilot and the pilot trainer - were not injured in the mid-morning mishap, and the aircraft was not damaged as it pulled into the grass median.
The plane's operator, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, provided the following statement to Central Florida media outlets: "Embry-Riddle is aware of the incident in the DeLand this morning. All occupants are accounted for and safe. The university is cooperating with all agencies and authorities on this matter."
The happy ending drew applause in the Facebook post.
Elizabeth Lee May said she saw the plane and "knew it was low," adding, "Proud to be an ERAU grad! Best of the best in everything aviation!! Good job, crew!"
I absolutely love the outcome considering the many other ways this could’ve (gone) wrong," said Barbie Baughman, a Daytona Beach Shores resident. "So glad the pilot had the courage and skill to execute such a successful landing!"
Ken Ali, president at Daytona Aviation, perhaps best summed up the online sentiment when he said, "Great job landing safely on US 92. I'm glad no one was injured. Any landing you can walk away from is a good landing."
88. Sanford man arrested in March after allegedly making vulgar sexual comments to girls walking home from school
Photo for Headline Surfer / Edward Alexander Henry, 30, is shown in a mugshot by the Sanford Police, who arrested him on Monday, March 3, 2025, on multiple felony charges of lewd behavior toward young girls on their way home from school.
SANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford man was arrested on March 3, 2025, for allegedly making vulgar, sexual comments to several different girls.
Edward Henry, 30, was arrested Monday on charges of second-degree criminal solicitation and lewd, lascivious behavior or lascivious battery against a victim between the ages of 12 and 16, Sanford Police said.
The first incident was on Feb. 26 in the area of Sweet Holly Lane and Holly Avenue. The victim told police she was walking when a car drove past her, then stopped. She said she changed directions, at which point the car allegedly pulled up to her in a parking lot, and the man driver made “explicit sexual comments” to her, the police report states.
Police say there was a separate incident reported the same day, in which the same man in the same car made an explicit sexual comment to the complainant’s daughter.
Video evidence from security cameras in the area led police to Henry, who was identified by one of the victims in a photo lineup.
Henry, who lives in Deltona, is a registered sex offender and was on inmate release status for lewd and lascivious exhibition when he was arrested. Police said he was investigated seven times in Winter Park in 2014 before spending three years in prison. He was found to have exposed himself at a pool and a pizza shop. He was also arrested in Volusia County in August 2024 over allegations of showing obscene materials to a minor.
Police say that during this latest arrest, Henry admitted to being in the area but denied making any contact with the victims.
The first victim stated the suspect drove up to her, made vulgar sexual comments towards her, and left the area without further incident. A second incident occurred later that day, around 4:15 p.m., on W. 24th Street, between Hartwell Avenue and S. Marshall Avenue.
The second victim reported a similar male driving up to her, making vulgar comments towards her, and driving off.
One of the victims reported similar interactions with the same individual on Feb. 24 around 9:00 a.m., near Maple Avenue and 18th Street, and the next day near Chase Avenue and 24th Street.
89. Sanford man arrested on child porn charges & an outstanding warrant out of Kentucky for alleged sex abuse of a child under 12
Photo for Headline Surfer / Anthony P. Dry arrested on child porn charges in Sanford, Fla. /
SANFORD, Fla. -- Sanford Police Investigators arrested Anthony P. Dry on March 12, 2025, in connection with a child pornography investigation.
According to Sanford PD investigators, on December 4, 2024, the police department received a National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) CyberTipline report. The tip indicated that a screen name of a subject possibly residing in the Sanford area had uploaded a file containing child pornography to Dropbox, Inc. Additionally, on Jan. 3, 2025, a second tip was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Cyber Tipline Report indicating that a file containing child pornography was uploaded to Instagram, possibly by the same subject.
Based on the investigation, Anthony P. Dry, 22 (D.O.B. 03/16/2002), was named as the suspect in this investigation. Dry was also found to have an active warrant out of Kentucky for failure to appear – sexual abuse of a victim under 12 years of age.
On Feb. 27, 2025, Sanford Investigators, with the assistance of Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Crimes Against Children Unit, executed a search warrant on Dry’s residence. he was taken into custody for the active warrant, and several electronic devices were seized. Dry was then transported to the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, where he has remained on no bond.
Based on the continued investigation, additional child pornography was located on Dry’s cellular phone that was seized during the search warrant. On March 12, 2025, Sanford Investigators charged Dry with 10 counts of Possession of Child Pornography.
90. Osceola County Sheriff's Office: Off-duty deputy fired after arrest on a warrant charging him with domestic violence by (non-lethal) strangulation of his wife
Headline Surfer photo image provided by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office / Fired OCSO Deputy John Macerelli faces a felony charge of domestic violence by strangulation.
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office received reports that one of its deputies had been abusive towards his spouse and was subsequently fired on Friday after his arrest on a warrant charging him with domestic battery by strangulation of his spouse.
The Sheriff’s Office immediately notified its Criminal Investigations Division, which began to investigate the reports. From that investigation, detectives gathered enough evidence to obtain a warrant for the arrest of 38-year-old Deputy John Macerelli for domestic battery by strangulation, a felony charge.
Macerelli, who is presumed innocent, could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine if convicted of the felony charge in court.
"This incident happened while he was off-duty, and there is no prior employee misconduct involving Deputy Macerelli with the agency," an OCSO spokesperson said in an emailed press release to Headline Surfer and other Central Florida media outlets. "The reports of this crime came as a complete shock to the Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Macerelli was a newer employee and was still working on probationary status, so he was terminated immediately after the warrant was executed for his arrest."
The name of the alleged victim - Maccerelli's spouse - was not released by the OCSO.
91. Remembering Orlando Patrolman Sidney Crenshaw killed in crash 60 years ago
Photo for Headline Surfer / Sidney Crenshaw.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Today (Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025) marks the 60th anniversary of the passing of Orlando Police Patrolman Sidney Crenshaw, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a traffic stop on his motorcycle on Nov. 22, 1966.
Patrolman Crenshaw was one of three officers hit by a driver along Colonial Drive on July 7, 1965.
Crenshaw succumbed to injuries he sustained when he was struck by a vehicle during a traffic stop on West Colonial Drive. Crenshaw had stopped to assist two other police officers with a vehicle stop. As the driver of the vehicle stopped and stepped out of her car, another car traveling on West Colonial Drive struck all three officers and the civilian. The civilian was killed instantly.
Patrolman Crenshaw was transported to the hospital, where he died on Nov. 22, 1966. The other two officers recovered from their injuries.
A 42-year-old woman, the driver of the vehicle that struck the officers, was arrested and charged with manslaughter and careless driving. The careless driving charge was later dropped.
Patrolman Crenshaw had served with the Orlando Police Department for 25 years.
92. COSTUME MANIA: Meet some adorable doggie trick-or-treaters at Seminole County Animal Services!
Photos for Headline Surfer / LEFT: Gigi, a 4-year-old Terrier mix, is dressed as a pumpkin. Rufus, an 8-year-old Hound, is dressed as a taco dog. LEFT: Rose, a 9-year-old brown brindle and white Terrier mix, is dressed as a pizza face. Next to her is Jude, a 5-year-old cream-colored Labrador serving up smiles as the Hot Diggity Dog.
SANFORD, Fla. -- Festive pups at Seminole County Animal Services aimed to steal human hearts this Halloween season!
Taco ‘bout cute! Rufus is an 8-year-old Hound: This taco pup has a joyful spirit and a playful side that will melt your heart. He loves nothing more than walks and cuddles and does best with calm canine companions.
Gigi is a 4-year-old Terrier mix rocking the pumpkin chic look: She’s sweet, gentle, and absolutely adores spending time with our volunteers and staff. Gigi enjoys walks and cuddles and gets along wonderfully with other dogs.
They and other dogs and cats are cared for by a caring, qualified team of staff and volunteers, committed to providing responsible, reliable, and efficient services. They strive to enrich, preserve, and respect the lives of all animals.
Seminole County Animal Services was established in the early 1970s to enforce local ordinances to prevent domestic animal nuisances and to have a safe place to take stray and homeless pets.
Today, they not only enforce ordinances but also provide services such as rabies vaccinations and microchipping.
They ask that you “Adopt- Don’t Shop” and come to the shelter and adopt your next family pet. They also offer numerous volunteer and foster home opportunities for helping homeless pets in the local community.
As the Seminole County Animal Services mission statement says: “We strive to preserve the lives of all animals.”
93. Summit Broadband announces landmark partnership with the Orlando Magic
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Summit Broadband, a leading provider of high-speed fiber-optic telecommunications services, announced a landmark partnership in early November with the Orlando Magic, becoming an official partner of the NBA team.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Summit Broadband, a leading provider of high-speed fiber-optic telecommunications services, announced a landmark partnership with the Orlando Magic, becoming an official partner of the NBA team.
This agreement significantly enhances its commitment to the Central Florida community.
The expansive partnership grants Summit Broadband exclusivity as the Magic’s fiber-Internet provider and establishes an official status designation. The collaboration is designed to leverage the excitement of the NBA to promote Summit Broadband’s high-speed connectivity and engage both business and residential customers across the region. As part of the partnership, fans can expect enhanced in-arena experiences, community activations, exclusive offers, and contests. The sponsorship will feature arena signage, radio broadcast integrations, and co-branded digital content.
“This is a signature partnership for Summit Broadband,” said Kurt Van Wagenen, chief executive officer at Summit Broadband. “Partnering with the Orlando Magic, a pillar of the Central Florida community, allows us to powerfully reinforce our brand, highlight the superior speed and reliability of our fiber network, and directly engage with a passionate fanbase. We are thrilled to become the team’s Official Fiber Internet Partner.”
Summit Broadband has been serving thousands of homes and businesses in Florida for over 30 years. Its deep-rooted presence in the state is about more than just providing services; it is about being a dedicated community partner.
This commitment is the foundation of the Summit Promise, which focuses on Fiber, Florida, and You. As a local provider, the company is proud to invest in the communities it serves, keeping neighbors connected and supported.
“We are excited to welcome Summit Broadband to the Orlando Magic family,” said Magic Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships J.T. McWalters.
94. Minor delays at Orlando International Airport continue in wake of the federal government shutdown
Photo for Headline Surfer - A Delta plane is shown taxing on a runway at Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Florida.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Flight traffic at Orlando International Airport (MCO) was experiencing minor delays with gate holds and taxi delays of 15 minutes or less and airborne arrival delays of 15 minutes or less, according to airline officials following the reopening of the federal government and the easing of flight restrictions.
The airport was open and fully operational. Delays were minor, affecting both departures and arrivals, but were 15 minutes or less.
The airport was open and fully operational. Delays were minor, affecting both departures and arrivals, but were 15 minutes or less.
The U.S. federal government reopened on November 13, 2025, after a 43-day shutdown (the longest in U.S. history) ended when President Trump signed a Continuing Resolution bill passed by Congress, funding operations through January 30, 2026, and ensuring back pay for furloughed federal workers.
95. CENTRAL FLORIDA WEATHER FORECAST: Sunny through Veteran's Day from Daytona Beach to Orlando, but holiday temps only 59 degrees
Photo for Headline Surfer / Here is a beachcam screenshot late-afternoon Thursday, Nov. 6, 2005, from the Dunlawton Avenue approach in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- There was plenty of sunshine through Veteran's Day here in Central Florida from Daytona Beach to Orlando, but holiday temps were downright cold: 59 degrees.
There was plenty of sunshine through Veteran's Day here in Central Florida from Daytona Beach to Orlando, but holiday temps were downright cold: 59 degrees.
Yikes!
96. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer on Veterans Day: 'we honor those who have served & continue to serve our country'
Photos for Headline Surfer / Orlando Police officers recognize veterans during a Veteran Day Tribute on Monday, Nov. 11, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- "Today, we honor those who have served & continue to serve our country," Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer posted on social media in recognition of Veterans Day.
"Today, we honor those who have served & continue to serve our country," Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer posted on social media in recognition of Veterans Day.
Parades and ceremonial remembrances were held throughout the weekend and on Veterans Day to honor America's veterans throughout Central Florida and across the nation.
Multimedia
Headline Surfer Facebook downloads / Orlando Police Department videos / Tributes to American veterans by members of the Orlando Police Department.
97. Sanford Police Department’s new Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign encourages citizens to ‘Ask About Our Butterfly’
Photos for Headline Surfer illustrate the Sanford Police Department's October domestic violence campaign in Central Florida, with officers wearing a purple ribbon/butterfly pin on their uniforms to raise awareness of the issue.
SANFORD, Fla. -- Members of the Sanford Police Department are raising awareness about domestic violence through a multifaceted campaign in October.
As part of the Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign, Sanford cops will wear a purple ribbon/butterfly pin on their uniform in an effort to spread awareness and support of victims of domestic violence.
"The goal is to have citizens ask the officers about the meaning of the butterfly on their uniform, in hopes that it will provoke a meaningful conversation about the impacts of domestic violence," Sanford PD said in a press release to Headline Surfer and other local media outlets about the new campaign.
"In addition, participating officers and support staff will walk 31 miles throughout October, spreading the message that 'running hurts, love shouldn’t.'"
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Domestic violence is never okay, no matter the circumstances. If you, or someone you know, is in desperate need of help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224.
98. ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE ASKS THE PUBLIC'S HELP CATCHING A 'DANGEROUS PREDATOR' WHO SEXUALLY ASSAULTED A WOMAN AT GUNPOINT
Photos for Headline Surfer / Orange County Sheriff John Mina is shown with a poster of a man who sexually assaulted a woman at gunpoint on Nov. 1, 2025, in the area of Barber Park, 3701 Gatlin Ave., Orlando, Florida.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- The Orange County Sheriff's Office wants to know: CAN YOU ID?
Detectives are continuing to use all resources available to catch a dangerous predator who sexually attacked a woman at gunpoint in early November.
Here is a synopsis of what occurred as described by the OCSO: On Nov. 1, 2025, between 3:50 and 4 a.m., this man sexually attacked a woman in the area of Barber Park, 3701 Gatlin Ave.
The suspect was last seen walking eastbound on Gatlin Avenue.
He is described as approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 180-200 pounds, wearing all-black clothing, and speaking with a thick Haitian Creole accent.
Anyone with information about this crime or who may recognize the person in the sketch is urged to call Crimeline at 800-423-8477.
99. GARY PUTNAM NAMED NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR SERIES DIRECTOR
Gary Putnam (shown at left) has been promoted to series director of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- NASCAR announced in early November that Gary Putnam had been named the new series director for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, becoming the fifth person to hold the position in the tour’s storied history.
Putnam succeeds Jimmy Wilson, who has overseen the series since 2013. Earlier this year, Wilson accepted the role of Sr. Technical Director of NASCAR Regional.
Putnam joins an esteemed line of Series Directors, including Jerry Cook (1985–1992), Ed Cox (1993–2007), Chad Little (2008–2012), and Jimmy Wilson (2013–2025). His appointment marks a new chapter for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour as it enters its 41st season in 2026.
A Vernon, Connecticut native, Putnam’s passion for motorsports began early. A graduate of Rockville High School, he was the first in his family to take an interest in racing. As a child, he spent weekends convincing his father to take him to Stafford Speedway, where he developed a lifelong love for the sport.
“This opportunity truly means a lot to me,” said Putnam, of his new role as NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series Director. “Growing up in Connecticut, the NASCAR Modifieds were everything, and I attended nearly every race I could. To now lead the series that inspired my passion for motorsports is an incredible honor."
Putnam added: "The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is in a strong place, and my focus is on building upon that success—enhancing the experience for our competitors, officials, and fans while continuing to grow the series for the future.”
Putnam’s professional journey through NASCAR spans nearly four decades, covering nearly every role in the garage. In the 1990s, he gained early experience working in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour alongside Charlie and Carl Pasteryak.
In 1996, Putnam moved to North Carolina to pursue full-time work in NASCAR, eventually joining Larry Hedrick Motorsports with driver Ricky Craven in the NASCAR Cup Series. He later worked on the cars for Bill Elliott Racing before moving to Petty Enterprises in 2002, where he served as crew chief on the No. 44 with driver Jerry Nadeau and in 2003 for drivers John Andretti, Christian Fittipaldi, and Jeff Green on the iconic No. 43 car.
Putnam went on to join Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007 and stayed at the company as it transitioned to Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, where he reached the pinnacle of his Cup career as car chief for the No. 1 team, winning the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400, and the fall Charlotte Motor Speedway race in 2010 with driver Jamie McMurray.
In addition to his leadership and technical expertise, Putnam is the first series director to have competed as a driver in the modern-era NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
Since his 2014 debut, Putnam has made 34 starts, earning two top-10 finishes, with his most recent start in 2025 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He also competed in the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour (2010–2016), recording three top-five and 30 top-10 finishes in 63 starts.
Multimedia:
Headline Surfer YouTube download / Randy's Autos video / Go behind the scenes with Gary Putnam Racing during pit practice for the #77 NASCAR Whelen Modified! Watch the team sharpen its skills and dial in pit stop performance ahead of race day.
100. A GENTLE DOG NAMED CLYDE IS CARED FOR AT ORANGE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES , BUT LONGS FOR & DESERVES A FOREVER HOME
Photos for Headline Surfer / A dog named Clyde is being cared for at the Orange County Animal Services in Orlando, Florida, but longs for a forever home.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- The preamble for dogs at the Orange County Animal Services is blunt: It’s sad how many calls our officers receive daily about dogs that have been dumped; in parking lots, in neighborhoods, in parks.
These are dogs that once knew a home, a family, and love. And just like that, they are dumped like garbage on the side of the road.
Left to fend for themselves, many of these dogs sadly remain where they are abandoned. Because they are hoping their owners will come back for them. And no one ever does.
Here is one such example as described by the caretakers at Orange County Animal Services. This is Clyde’s story: Clyde and another dog were dumped in a park, and our officers picked them up after park workers had safely confined them. Both dogs were sweet and had actually been chasing bicyclists and skaters in a friendly way. The workers told us it was clear they wanted to play.
Clyde spent his first few weeks here in turmoil. While he is fine with other dogs outside, he does not want to share his space. He is sweet and energetic with staff, but he has his bouts with sadness.
Clyde sometimes howls at the yard gates, as if crying out for someone. He spends long days just lying quietly on his bed, watching as the world passes by. In the yards, he’ll lie in the sun, quietly and calmly, with the saddest expression on his face. And when we hug him, his eyes shut tightly and he sighs deeply, as if remembering a love once known, and now long gone. It’s heartbreaking to watch such a big, beautiful dog mourn. But we know there’s someone out there for Clyde.
Clyde sometimes howls at the yard gates, as if crying out for someone. He spends long days just lying quietly on his bed, watching as the world passes by. In the yards, he’ll lie in the sun, quietly and calmly, with the saddest expression on his face. And when we hug him, his eyes shut tightly and he sighs deeply, as if remembering a love once known, and now long gone.
It’s heartbreaking to watch such a big, beautiful dog mourn. But we know there’s someone out there for Clyde. A patient and loving heart. Someone who will hold him tight in their arms and never let him go.
Let’s get him seen. Let’s get him home.
INQUIRIES: If you'd like to learn more about Clyde and possibly adopt him, please call Orange County Animal Services at 407-836-3111 or visit the OCAS at 2769 Conroy Road, Orlando. Email inquiries: AnimalServices@ocfl.net. Online: www.ocnetpets.com.
FAST FACTS:
• Orange County Animal Services currently provides shelter for 161 Dogs & 200 Cats.
• Adoptions Month to Date: 141; Adoptions Year to Date: 7,267.
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