Religious Symbol in DeLand, Fla., City Seal Questioned

Written by Don Byrd
The official seal of Deland, Florida includes a heart, an anchor, and a cross. The seal has been in place for 131 years, apparently without complaint, until now. Americans United for the Separation of Church and State has sent a letter to the city on behalf of a resident, requesting the religious symbols be removed from the insignia.

The Daytona Beach News-Journal reports that city officials insist the symbol has great historic significance and does not give the appearance of religious endorsement.