The Volusia-Flagler Group was founded in 1976 thanks to the efforts of local Sierra members when they recognized there were enough environmental activists in our area to form a Group. Since that time the Volusia-Flagler Group has been instrumental in protecting Volusia and Flagler counties' environment as well as contributing to statewide and national efforts. We are all volunteers.
2024 Executive Committee Members & Officers
Alex Zelenski: ExCom Member, Conservation Chair
azelenski@clearviewgeographic.com
Alex Zelenski, resident of the Volusia County area since 2010, has been active in Florida’s environmental community since graduating from Stetson University with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Geography. Alex’s passion for the natural world started early in his life, growing up in the Appalachian Mountains and spending most of his free time hiking trails or playing in the rivers and creeks of the greater Ohio area.
Using his formal education in ecology and earth sciences, skills in geographic information systems (GIS), and knowledge about local development practices, Alex aims to provide ethical scientific information, help preserve natural habitat, and protect wildlife. The complex interaction between the economy and the intrinsic connection that we all share with the landscape requires a collaborative approach to improve environmental stewardship, minimize land use impacts, and restore natural spaces.
Brynn Newton: ExCom Member, Secretary
brynng@aol.com
Editor of The Timucuan and ExCom Secretary who has been a Sierra Club Member since 1976, Brynn is a retired lawyer and is primarily interested in preservation of wildlife habitat.
Kris Cunningham: ExCom Vice-Chair, Treasurer
krissysjake@gmail.com
I have been an active Sierra Club member since 2005. I have served on the state and local boards in Nevada, North Carolina, and Florida. My major activities have revolved around renewable energy promotion, fighting nuclear and coal, and supporting Sierra Club priorities.
Lisa Martin: ExCom Member
lisamartin999@gmail.com
Lisa has experienced most of the U.S. She was born in the midwest, educated in the northeast, had a career (in backbone network communications) on the west coast, and has “retired” in the south. Her “retirement” includes working hard in her current office as a New Smyrna Beach City Commissioner, where she is working to pay it forward – to leave her family and all who come after her a better world. She has two daughters and eight perfect grandchildren.
She is also a self-described “Grumpy Old Woman.”
Nazrine N. Navetia: ExCom Member; Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Committee Chair
nazrinenavetia@gmail.com
I am Nazrine Nahdhezhdah. Literally mean names translates to “wildflower” and “hope” respectfully. I remember the first time I realized that I was connected to the earth and it was connected to me and I wanted to play with it. I was born, and grew up in Jamaica West Indies, (not Queens, NY). I remember the first time we took a trip high up in the hills in St. Ann’s Jamaica and down again to the most amazing river I have ever seen even to this day. I knew then the earth is amazing, and wonderful, and very generous. She never stops giving. It is my turn to give back to her and I would be privileged to serve on the committee for her welfare.
Rob Bridger: ExCom Member, Political Chair
rob.bridger48@gmail.com
Through my previous service as Chair of the Volusia-Flagler Group’s Political Committee, and my 2018, 2020 and 2022 campaigns for Mayor of Ormond Beach I have become increasingly aware of, and knowledgeable about the environmental issues facing Volusia and Flagler Counties and our State of Florida. I have been impressed by the Executive Committee’s efforts to address issues I have raised to its attention – such as, the proposed Airport Runway Extension and relocation of Airport Road into the Tomoka River estuary and the proposed Belvedere Fuel Terminals.
I have been honored with the Sierra Club’s endorsement in each of my mayoral campaigns; and would like to make repayment to the Club with the offer of my service on the Group’s ExCom. While I do not intend to again run for public office, I believe I can be an effective advocate for our environmental issues.
Steve Wonderly: Group Chair, Webmaster
937-609-4721
Steve.Wonderly@Florida.SierraClub.org
Steve is a life member of the Sierra Club. He originally joined while living in Ohio, and there served on the Miami Group ExCom and Political committees. He has attended Sierra Club national political training in Washington, D.C. and has completed Sierra Club Outer Leader Training. He served for four years on the Sierra Club Florida Executive Committee, including two years as Chair.