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- ⭐Arctic Blast Coming, Chitwood Slams Judge, After-School Boost
⭐Arctic Blast Coming, Chitwood Slams Judge, After-School Boost
Issue #819
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Today’s Forecast
Tropical Update
The Tropical Update Has Been Suspended For The Season Unless Something Develops
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National Weather Service
🥶 Freeze Warning: Arctic Cold Set to Grip Volusia This Weekend
An arctic air mass is sweeping down Florida’s spine, and Volusia and Flagler counties are right in its frosty path. This weekend marks the coldest weather Central Florida has seen all season, with temperatures plunging into the 20s—and wind chills diving to the teens or even single digits in spots like Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach.
Saturday night into Sunday morning will be the most brutal, with wind chills expected around 9°F in Volusia and 8°F in Flagler. Highs during the day will barely reach the upper 50s, and the chill is expected to linger into Monday.
To help residents cope, Volusia County is opening cold weather shelters in DeLand and partnering with Halifax Urban Ministries on the east side. Several libraries will open early to provide a warm refuge, and residents are reminded to protect pets, plants, and pipes. In Flagler, The Sheltering Tree in Bunnell will offer warmth—and even transportation options—for those in need.
Officials urge everyone to prepare now before winds intensify.
Source: Daytona News-Journal
🚨 Chitwood Slams Judge Over Drug Suspect's Release
Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood didn’t mince words this week after Circuit Judge Randell H. Rowe III released a suspected drug trafficker on her own recognizance. Amber Williamson, a former law enforcement officer, was initially arrested on multiple drug charges—then released the next day. Just five days later, she was arrested again, this time for trafficking meth and fentanyl.
Chitwood took to Facebook to vent, questioning the purpose of law enforcement if alleged dealers are quickly set free. “WTF?” he asked, citing the 53 grams of fentanyl seized—enough for thousands of lethal doses.
After a wave of online support (and outrage), Chitwood later condemned reports of threats made against Judge Rowe. “Criticism is one thing, but death threats are absolutely over the line,” he posted, vowing to investigate any threats made.
Williamson is now in custody with bond denied, and the debate over balancing justice and public safety is heating up in Volusia.
Source: NewsDaytonaBeach
📚 Beacon of Hope: After-School Program Gets Big Boost
As chilly evenings set in, warmth is radiating from inside The Salvation Army's Daytona Beach campus, where their Beacon of Hope After School Program is getting a $20,000 boost. Thanks to a Community Impact Grant from the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, the popular program is expanding its reach and offerings.
Beacon of Hope supports K-8 students with academic help, character-building activities, and enrichment opportunities like STEM, music, sports, and even 3D printing. One favorite initiative? “Reading with Therapy Dogs,” a literacy-building activity that also brings plenty of tail wags.
Lt. Kalynn Green says the program is about “creating a place where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged.” With this funding, the team plans to deepen family engagement and expand creative learning.
Local leaders recently toured the facility to see the impact firsthand. Courtney Edgcomb of CF/UWVFC called it “a perfect example of how community-rooted programs help children and families thrive.”
Just one more reason to feel proud—and a little warmer—about what’s happening in Daytona Beach.
Source: Ormond Observer
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NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info:
Saturday, Jan 31, 2026
🎭 Headline Concert
Still Surfin': A Tribute to The Beach Boys
Close out January with the sounds of summer. "Still Surfin'" brings the harmonies of The Beach Boys to the Peabody Auditorium, performing hits like "California Girls," "Good Vibrations," and "Surfin' USA."
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach
🏎️ Motorsports (Dirt Track)
The action continues at the "World's Fastest Half-Mile." Tonight features the 360 Winged Sprint Cars and DIRTcar UMP Modifieds. It is loud, fast, and dusty—a true racing experience.
Time: Gates Open 4:00 PM | Racing starts approx. 5:30 PM/6:00 PM
Location: Volusia Speedway Park (Barberville)
🏍️ Special Interest (Ormond Beach)
An exclusive after-hours party for motorcycle enthusiasts. Be among the first to see the 2026 Triumph model lineup. The event features food, drinks, and a "VIP" style reveal.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: RiderMarket Daytona BMW & Triumph (S. Yonge St, Ormond Beach)
🤸 Sports & Competitions
The Ocean Center is transformed into a massive gymnasium for this multi-day competition. Watch talented gymnasts from across the region compete in various disciplines.
Time: All Day (Competition typically runs 8:00 AM – Evening)
Location: Ocean Center, Daytona Beach
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
The Band Penta @ Hard Rock Hotel
Wrap up the month with a high-energy performance by The Band Penta on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace. Great for dancing and drinks by the ocean.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
🥦 Farmers Markets
Daytona Beach Downtown Farmers Market
Enjoy the cool January morning air along the Halifax River. Browse fresh produce, baked goods, and plants on City Island.
Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Market @ Magnolia (Beach St. & Magnolia Ave)
Sunday, Feb 1, 2026
🤸 Sports & Competition (Final Day)
The final day of competition at the Ocean Center. Watch as talented gymnasts from across the country compete in the floor, vault, beam, and bars events. It’s a great indoor activity for families.
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Approx.)
Location: Ocean Center, Daytona Beach
🏎️ Motorsports Update
DIRTcar Nationals: OFF DAY
Note for race fans: There is NO racing tonight at Volusia Speedway Park. The teams are taking a scheduled break. The action resumes tomorrow (Monday, Feb 2) with the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds.
🥂 Brunch & Leisure
Sunday Brunch @ Hard Rock Hotel
Enjoy the "Sessions" terrace with ocean views, mimosa specials, and live acoustic music. It’s a relaxed atmosphere compared to last weekend's race crowds.
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art
Spend a quiet Sunday wandering the largest collection of Florida-themed art in the world. It’s a beautiful way to start the month.
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Museum of Arts & Sciences Campus, Daytona Beach
🧘 Wellness
AumShanti Yoga: Dream On, Stretch Long
A gentle, restorative yoga class held on the oceanfront Rock Royalty Terrace.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info.
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