- Ormond Local Pulse
- Posts
- ⭐ Deaton Seeking Re-Election, Tomoka Commerce Park, Running O.B.
⭐ Deaton Seeking Re-Election, Tomoka Commerce Park, Running O.B.
Issue #804
Note: 👉👉👉 You can always READ ONLINE
Table of Contents
+
Today’s Forecast
Tropical Update
The Tropical Update Has Been Suspended For The Season Unless Something Develops
Swipe image left for more daily forecasts
Courtesy Photo
🗳️ Deaton Seeks Another Term
Zone 3 City Commissioner Kristin Deaton is making a bid for a second term on the Ormond Beach City Commission. Deaton, a lifelong local and mortgage professional, said the past year helped her truly understand the ins and outs of public service. Now, she's eager to continue championing residents’ voices and shaping thoughtful growth.
In her first term, Deaton took pride in emphasizing quality of life, advocating for neighborhoods, and pushing back on developments that don’t align with the city’s character—especially in contentious areas like Tomoka Oaks and near Hunter’s Ridge. She’s been candid about the limitations the commission faces, especially with prior approvals and ongoing litigation, but remains committed to transparency and responsible oversight.
Looking ahead, Deaton hopes to improve the I-95 and Granada corridor, expand recreation west of I-95, and tackle homelessness with a balanced and humane strategy. Only one challenger, William Sanchez, has filed to run against her so far.
Source: Ormond Observer
🏗️ Tomoka Commerce Park Nears Final Approval
The proposed Tomoka Commerce Park project is inching closer to reality. After a unanimous thumbs-up from the Ormond Beach Planning Board in December, the mixed-use development is set for its first City Commission hearing on January 20.
Planned for a 12-acre site at 890 N. U.S. 1, the project will feature 11 buildings—primarily office and warehouse spaces—with two 50,000-square-foot structures fronting the highway. The site includes preserved wetlands, ample green buffers, and an impressive 21% tree preservation, exceeding the city’s minimum requirement.
Scott Vanacore of Vanacore Homes, who co-owns the property with his brother Todd, emphasized the collaboration behind the scenes with city planners and engineers. He noted that as more homes are built nearby, projects like this are essential to support the area’s business infrastructure.
Although Vanacore didn’t name names, a few popular restaurants are reportedly eyeing space in the park. Whether you're craving a bite or need warehouse space for a small biz, the U.S. 1 corridor is shaping up to be a hot spot.
Source: HomeTown News
🏃♀️ Running the Whole Map
Michelle Bartlome, president of the Flagler Rotary Club, just completed a challenge that’s part fitness feat, part love letter to Ormond Beach: running every single street in the city. That’s 864 streets and a whopping 410 miles, thanks to cul-de-sacs and double-backs.
Inspired by a speaker at a Rotary event, Bartlome took on the challenge without knowing just how far she’d go—literally. Using CityStrides to track her progress, she began in March 2025 and crossed the finish line 10 months later on the beach, writing “100%” in the sand to mark the moment.
Her runs revealed hidden gems, from historic homes to quiet trails. Along the way, she documented stories of local landmarks, shared discoveries on social media, and even inspired her sister in Maryland to run every street in her own town.
Bartlome’s takeaway? Start small and stay curious. You never know what you’ll find around the next corner.
Source: Ormond Observer
Recent Arrests
Ormond Beach Police Department
Bryan Carman (53) – Arrested on 2026-01-07. Charge(s): DUI causing serious bodily injury (enhanced), damage to person/property (enhanced). Bail: $50,000.
Jaqueline S. Upson (53) – Arrested on 2026-01-07. Charge(s): Possession of opium derivative with intent to sell/manufacture/deliver (Schedule I/II), driving with canceled license. Bail: $10,000.
Holly Hill Police Department
Francisco Javier Cartagena Romero (37) – Arrested on 2026-01-08. Charge(s): Domestic battery by strangulation, DUI. Bail: $500.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office
Melissa Myra Mactier (47) – Arrested on 2026-01-02. Charge(s): Child neglect. Bail: $2,500.
Daniel Edward Moritz (52) – Arrested on 2026-01-03. Charge(s): Grand theft (motor vehicle), driving while license revoked (habitual). Bail: $7,500.
Jeffrey Shane Drumm (46) – Arrested on 2026-01-04. Charge(s): Battery on a person 65 or older. Bail: Not set.
Karen Lyn O’Brien (47) – Arrested on 2026-01-07. Charge(s): Petit theft. Bail: $2,500.
GET YOUR ORMOND PULSE VIP PASS
Receive Special News Notifications, Special Community Events, etc. Between Publications
Click Image
⭐⭐Local Business Directory⭐⭐
Please Patronize Your Local Businesses!
COMING SOON!
Get hands-on, no-fluff AI training built for local businesses—not tech geeks. Whether you run a salon, law firm, restaurant, or repair shop, or individual, we’ll show you how to use AI to save time, cut costs, and grow fast.
A community for everyone…local businesses, professionals, individuals.
Check out these proven AI prompts for Local Businesses
Looking for a Great Place To Eat?
Click Image
⭐ Today's Meme ⭐
Great Voucher Dealz
Digital coupons & vouchers for local businesses and their services.
Visit the Dealz page and get a great deal.
Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam
Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam
Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam
Ponce Inlet 180 degree Cam
Currently Unavailable
NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info:
Friday, Jan 16, 2026
🏎️ Motorsports Headline
Roar Before the Rolex 24 (Day 1)
The engines are back! This three-day test session is the official dress rehearsal for the Rolex 24. It serves as a preview for the famous 24-hour race, giving fans full access to the garage area and a first look at the new cars and drivers for the 2026 season.
Time: Gates open early (Testing throughout the day)
Location: Daytona International Speedway
🎻 Arts & Culture
Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings
A multi-sensory musical experience under the gentle glow of candlelight. A string quartet performs classical renditions of hip-hop hits from the 90s at the riverfront Brannon Center. It is a magical and intimate atmosphere.
Time: 6:30 PM & 9:00 PM
Location: Brannon Center, New Smyrna Beach (approx. 20 min drive)
🏛️ Last Chance Holiday History
Stetson Mansion Christmas Tours
This is the final weekend to catch the "Christmas Spectacular" at Florida’s most historic home. The holiday decorations will be taken down after Sunday, Jan 18. Reservations are required.
Time: Tours vary
Location: Stetson Mansion, DeLand
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Kick off the weekend on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace. Enjoy live music, cocktails, and the sea breeze.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Enjoy a sophisticated Friday night with fine dining and live entertainment in the Havana Bar.
Time: Evening
Location: 31 Supper Club, Ormond Beach
Saturday, Jan 17, 2026
🏎️ Motorsports & Auto Shows
Roar Before the Rolex 24 (Day 2)
The action heats up at the Speedway. Today features a full day of testing for the WeatherTech Championship cars and the first wheel-to-wheel racing of the season with the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge.
Time: Gates open at 7:00 AM (Racing/Testing all day)
Location: Daytona International Speedway
Eastbound Getdown Car & Truck Show
A massive gathering for gearheads hosted at the "World's Largest Harley-Davidson." See hundreds of custom cars, lifted trucks, and bikes. Today features a special "Decks for Dogs" auction benefiting local animal rescue.
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson (Destination Daytona, Ormond Beach)
🎤 Headline Concert
World Turning Band: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Go your own way to the Peabody for "The Live Fleetwood Mac Experience." This Nashville-based tribute band recreates the harmonies and hits of the legendary group, from "Rhiannon" to "The Chain."
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach
🏛️ Last Chance Holiday History
Stetson Mansion Christmas Tours
It's the penultimate day! This is your next-to-last chance to see the "Christmas Spectacular" decorations before they are packed away for the year. The season officially ends tomorrow, Sunday, Jan 18.
Time: Tours vary (Reservations Required)
Location: Stetson Mansion, DeLand
🥦 Farmers Markets
Daytona Beach Downtown Farmers Market
Enjoy a crisp January morning on the riverfront. Browse fresh produce, local honey, and artisan goods on City Island.
Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Market @ Magnolia (Beach St. & Magnolia Ave)
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Saturday nights feature high-energy live bands on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace. It’s the perfect spot to keep the party going after the car show.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
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.
Do you have an event you’d like to have posted? Submit Your Event Here. OR scan the QR Code below
Scan for event form
Our goal is to provide Ormond Beach readers with news that's relevant to our area. The BIG news sources don't always reach to the "micro-level", so we need your help! We welcome your input for news of local happenings that would be of interest to Ormond readers. Neighborhood news, events, etc., are all welcome. Got photos? Great! If you fancy yourself a writer we'd welcome your participation.
You can enter event information on this form, or for important, urgent news items feel free to text us at 386-444-2002 or email [email protected] with information about your news. We will get back to you for details.
We Want To Spotlight Your Business!
We ❤️ Local Businesses!
Our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Ormond Local Pulse" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Ormond Beach together!
⭐ Own a local business? ⭐
⭐ We WANT to spotlight YOUR business!! ⭐
❤️ Love a local business? Nominate them.
We could use your help!
We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!
One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.
Know somebody who lives in the Ormond Beach, Ormond-By-The-Sea, or Holly Hill areas that would benefit from being kept in the know?
Do you fancy yourself a writer? We’d love to feature articles from our neighbors and readers. If you’d like to contribute let us know HERE
 | Please share Ormond Local Pulse with your friends! Have them scan the QR code or send them the link below.. 👇👇👇👇 |
Reply