Jeff Shepherd
Jeff Shepherd is a well-known figure around West Volusia – you might see him playing hot Jazz in the Alley or Courtyard, commuting on his bike, or training for a marathon. He’s retired from a surveying and mapping career that includes 33 years at FDOT. He’s had a major impact on Deland. Teamed with his wife Barb, the couple envisioned and created Artisan Alley that has now become DeLand’s downtown social center. He served on the DeLand planning board, the Volusia Flagler Transportation Planning Organization, and the board of DeLand Police Athletic League. He’s organized and led “Jazz in the Alley” and “Jazz in the Courtyard”, the “Thin Man” Watts Jazz Fest and other musical events. He also mentors and instructs music for students in Deland schools, and instructs music from his Artisan Alley studio. The “Thin Man” Watts Jazz Fest celebrates the life and music of the legendary saxophonist, Dr. Noble “Thin Man” Watts featured in our DeLand Black Heritage Trail guide booklet.
Jeff recently spoke at the Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation meeting in Sanford. Here’s a summary.
“As a new director for the St. Johns River to Sea Loop Alliance, one of my first tasks was representing our organization at the recent Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation (FGTF) meeting in Sanford. It was a fantastic chance to share updates about the Loop and the Alliance, and an incredible introduction to the passionate people and critical issues shaping greenways and trails across Central Florida and beyond. “
“Serving as a director on the board of the St Johns River to Sea Loop Alliance is a perfect fit for me.
I realize the importance of its mission, and I am eager to do my part.”
Joe Cona
Joe Cona manages the finances as controller of major companies and as treasurer for large organizations like Florida Freewheelers. When not working he can be found out enjoying trails and leading cyclists of all ages and abilities. Joe recently moved from Jacksonville where he served as treasurer for the North Florida Bicycling Club. He now lives in Ormond Beach.
Joe is an avid cyclist who Recently completed and coached others to complete the Florida Freewheelers 100-mile ride at the Florida Bicycle Safari in Live Oak, Florida. He enjoys Road biking, gravel/mountain biking and bike packing. He also leads visually impaired riders using a tandem bike and leads another on his Trike.
“Time, talent and Treasure”, use the gifts you have to get involved and make a difference in someone’s life, in your community. Be the person that makes a difference through service to others. I hope to bring my experience and new ideas to raise money and get people invloved to use our trails and spread the word about how great they are!
Carlee McKinney
Carlee McKinney is always out and about shining at her role as Partner Development Coordinator at Visit West Volusia. She has a degree in Hospitality and Management and has had diverse a career in tourism and hospitality that includes several Florida State Parks, the City of Ormond Beach, and Walt Disney Company on land and at sea. In addition to her role as Director for River2Sea Loop Alliance she serves as administrator for the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor National Scenic Byway and Director for the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
“I look forward to serving on the board of the River-to-Sea Loop Alliance and am excited to promote our trails and how we can all enjoy them whether cycling, walking, or running.”
