DeLand, FL - The man now officially in charge of Volusia County beaches is a native and has been with Volusia County Beach Safety since he started as a lifeguard in 1996. Andrew Etheridge has worked in almost every position available in the beach safety division, according to County Manager George Recktenwald. "Beach Safety Specialist, Beach Safety Officer, Field Training Officer, Criminal Investigator, Beach Safety Sergeant, Captain, Deputy Chief, so he's really worked his way up through every step of the organization."
Council members Heather Post, Billie Wheeler, and Barb Girtman all talked to current and past Beach Safety employees and came to the same conclusion: Etheridge is where he's supposed to be because he positioned himself to be there. Etheridge agreed, saying every step was intentional. "Every step I took was to be prepared when the opportunity presented itself and I do believe in keeping our public informed and making sure they know everything that's going on, as well as you all."
