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- ⭐ Hinson Teacher of Year, Striking Connections, Local Mall Sold, Property Tax Discussions
⭐ Hinson Teacher of Year, Striking Connections, Local Mall Sold, Property Tax Discussions
Issue #789
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🍎 Teaching is in Her DNA
Caitlin Spencer teaches seventh-grade science and brings a genuine passion for problem-solving to the classroom. She’s all about finding what sparks curiosity in her students and considers the daily challenges part of the fun. Her philosophy? "Show up and try" — a bit of wisdom she passes on to her middle schoolers.
Outside the classroom, Spencer keeps busy with her children, fundraising events, and a love for the outdoors. Her story is a touching reminder that great educators don’t just teach — they inspire, nurture, and carry legacies forward.
Source: Ormond Observer
🎳 Striking Connections in the Dark
Saturday mornings at Ormond Lanes offer something truly special — the joyful clang of pins and laughter from the Daytona Beach Blind Bowlers Association. This unique league brings together players of all sight levels, from fully blind to fully sighted, proving that sportsmanship knows no limits.
At 91, Dorothy Manser is still competing, using lane rails to guide her. League president Stephen Vento, who has partial vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, says the league is more than a game — it’s a disguised support group where friendships flourish. The DBBBA follows standard bowling rules (no bumpers here!) and hosts a banquet to celebrate its bowlers’ accomplishments.
Best of all? New bowlers are welcome year-round. Interested in joining or helping out? Reach out to Stephen Vento at [email protected] or Sandy McDaniel at [email protected].
Source: Hometown News
🛍️ Major Retail Play in Daytona
Big changes are rolling into Daytona Beach’s retail scene. DLC Management Corp., in partnership with DRA Advisors, has acquired International Speedway Square — part of a major $429 million, eight-property portfolio deal spanning 2.12 million square feet.
This acquisition boosts DLC’s presence in Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, and Phoenix. For Daytona, it means continued growth at a center already home to major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Staples, and Total Wine & More. Located across from the Speedway, the center draws in both locals and tourists, and is now poised for even more strategic development.
According to DLC CEO Adam Ifshin, the off-market deal highlights the company's savvy in identifying high-performing retail opportunities.
Source: Hometown News
🏛️ Volusia Braces for Property Tax Talk
As Florida lawmakers consider major changes to the property tax system, the Volusia County Council is getting proactive. A Jan. 8 workshop will take place following the regular council meeting to discuss the potential impact of eliminating non-school property taxes — a move that could dramatically reshape local government budgets.
Gov. Ron DeSantis and legislators are weighing four ballot proposals for 2026, including exemptions for seniors, insured homestead owners, and a full transfer of the “Save Our Homes” benefit. Council members, including Chair Jeff Brower and District 5’s David Santiago, agree reform is overdue but stress the need to focus on essential services like roads if funding takes a hit.
With the state legislative session kicking off Jan. 13, expect more updates soon on how Florida might re-imagine its property tax system.
Source: Daytona News-Journal
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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:
Happy New Year! Thursday, Jan 1, 2026
🦅 First Day Hikes & Outdoors
First Day Hike at Tomoka State Park
Start your 2026 resolutions on the right foot! Join a park ranger for a guided 1-mile hike through the park's historic and natural landscapes. It’s a peaceful way to ground yourself for the year ahead.
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Tomoka State Park, Ormond Beach (Meet at the Rec Hall Trailhead)
A flexible way to get active. Run or walk your own 5K route in Ormond Beach at your own pace to earn a commemorative shirt and medal.
Time: All Day
Location: Anywhere in Ormond Beach
🌊 Polar Plunges
Polar Bear Plunge at Riverfront Swim Club
Take the plunge—literally! Gather family and friends for the annual ride down the slide or a splash in the pool to "wash off" 2025. Hot cocoa and donuts provided.
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Swim Club, Daytona Beach (Beach St.)
Atlantic Ocean Plunges (Informal)
While less organized, it is a local tradition for brave residents to charge into the ocean near the Main Street Pier or Granada Approach at noon. Watch for small groups gathering on the sand.
Time: Around 12:00 PM
Location: Daytona Beach & Ormond Beach Public Approaches
🥂 "Hair of the Dog" Brunch & Dining
New Year's Day Brunch at The Shores
Recover with a grand buffet featuring traditional "good luck" dishes like black-eyed peas and collard greens, alongside fresh seafood and carved meats.
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Shores Resort & Spa, Daytona Beach Shores
31 Supper Club: New Year's Day Patio Party
Keep the celebration going into the evening with an outdoor patio party featuring live music by Grammy-nominated duo Dana & Sharon.
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: 31 Supper Club, Ormond Beach
🎄 Final Holiday Sightseeing
Did you miss the lights in December? The Speedway’s drive-through display remains open through January 3rd.
Time: Dusk – 10:00 PM
Location: Daytona International Speedway
Ormond Memorial Art Museum Gardens
While the museum building is closed for the holiday, the lush gardens remain open from sunrise to sunset. It is a beautiful, quiet spot for New Year's reflection.
Time: Sunrise – Sunset
Location: 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
🏛️ City Status
Holiday Closures: City Hall, the library, and most administrative offices are closed in observance of New Year's Day.
Here is the curated event list for Friday, January 2, 2026.
The first Friday of the new year brings a major reggae concert to Ormond Beach, the launch of a massive food truck festival, and the return of a favorite local street party just to the north.
📅 Friday, Jan 2, 2026
🎸 Headline Concert
The Original Wailers @ Destination Daytona
Keep the "One Love" vibes going into 2026! Al Anderson and The Original Wailers bring the iconic music of Bob Marley to the Coca-Cola Pavilion. Special guests include Part One Tribe.
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM
Location: The Pavilion at Destination Daytona, Ormond Beach
🚚 Festivals & Foodies
FOODEES Food & Culture Festival
Kick off the weekend at this massive touring food truck festival taking over Tanger Outlets. Admission is free, and the event features over 40 food trucks, 60+ artisan crafters, and a "Fun Park" for families.
Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach (Cornerstone Blvd)
🌳 Community & Street Parties
First Friday Music in the Park
Take the scenic drive north A1A to Flagler Beach for their monthly street party. Enjoy live music at Veterans Park, local food vendors, and late hours for nearby shops and museums.
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Veterans Park, Flagler Beach (approx. 15 mins north)
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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