DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Among hundreds of colleges and universities in the nation offering bachelor degree programs online, Daytona State College ranks among the top 10 according to rankings released today by U.S. News & World Report.

School Board Member Dist.3

NSBNEWS.net photos by Sera Frederick/Henry Frederick. More than 200 people showed up for the City Commission's public hearing on the $21 million proposed budget for the new fiscal year. Mayoral candidate Marilee Walters (center photo) urged the commissioners and incumbent Mayor Sally Mackay to make even further cuts than was recommended by Interim City Manager Pam Brangaccio. The commission instead voted unanimously to go with the rolled-back rate of 3.74 mills, which under Florida law means no tax increase.  Zone 1 City Commissioner Jack Grasty (far left), who is up for re-election, was adamant against any further cuts, including a suggestion by challenger Palmer Wilson to furlough city employees, saying he did not want to compromise essential city services. The mayor said there had been enough job losses over the last several years and that salary freezes across the board were in place. Mackay, Grasty, Randy Richenberg and Lynne Plaskett all voted in favor of lowering the millage rate from 3.94 down to the rolled-back rate. Commissioner Jim Hathaway was out of town on city business.

MAKING THE GRADE: F

NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- The Community Redevelopment Agency voted 6-0 at its May 13 meeting to approve up to $9,000 in spending for an artificial Christmas tree in Riverside Park.