⭕ Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure Opens in Daytona

Issue #116

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22 Feb

Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure Opens in Daytona, Offering Educational Fun

Image: Daytona Aquarium

The Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure celebrated its soft opening, attracting over a hundred visitors. Owners Cliff Grosvenor and Margaret Daniels have transformed a former retail space into a 55,000-square-foot aquarium and educational center. The attraction features a wide range of land and marine species, with plans to expand further, including the addition of a rainforest exhibit. Visitors praised the detailed habitats and the variety of species. The aquarium offers daily and annual passes, providing an engaging experience for families and individuals interested in learning about aquatic and terrestrial life.

Ormond Beach Considers Compassionate Ordinances to Address Homelessness

Wikipedia

Ormond Beach is considering adopting ordinances similar to those recently implemented in DeLand to address homelessness. Mayor Bill Partington has proposed a workshop to discuss these measures, which aim to assist homeless individuals in accessing shelter and services, while addressing public concerns. The city has been involved with First Step Shelter since 2019, a partnership aimed at helping the homeless find jobs and housing. The proposed ordinances seek to encourage compliance and connection to services, with city officials and local nonprofit coalitions like FAITH supporting the initiative. The move reflects a growing trend among cities to legislate solutions to homelessness.

Holly Hill School Rezoning Plan Approved, Over 200 Students to Transition to Ormond Beach & Campbell Middle School

The Volusia County School Board has unanimously approved the conversion of Holly Hill School from a K-8 to a K-5 institution for the 2024-2025 academic year, in response to overcrowding and to enhance program offerings. This decision will result in the rezoning of over 200 students to Ormond Beach Middle School and Campbell Middle School in Daytona Beach. The change aims to provide students with access to programs previously unavailable, such as art, and is part of a larger effort to address district-wide overcrowding issues. The board's decision was informed by community feedback and the recognition of the need for balanced educational opportunities across grade levels.

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River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast - A Victorian Gem in Holly Hill

Photo: River Lily Inn

Nestled along Riverside Drive in Holly Hill, the River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast stands as a testament to timeless elegance and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Owned by Mary and Al Balloqui, this Victorian estate turned bed and breakfast offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and locals alike.

Photo: River Lily Inn-Polly’s Tea Room

Mary’s journey to owning the River Lily Inn is one of passion and serendipity. Originally from London, Mary and Al sought retirement in the sunny climes of Florida. Their search led them to a magnificent Victorian estate for sale, which they instantly fell in love with. The estate's potential for hosting High Tea in Polly's Tea Room, doubling as a dining area for guests, was particularly appealing, given Mary's London roots. This inspired them to embark on the adventure of running a bed and breakfast, welcoming guests from all walks of life, each with their own stories to share.

Photo: River Lily Inn-Moon Rover Suite

The River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast boasts seven uniquely decorated suites, ensuring that each guest's stay is a one-of-a-kind experience. Among its many features, the inn is renowned for its heart-shaped swimming pool, a 75-year-old marvel and a homage to actress Jayne Mansfield's famous pool. The surrounding tropical gardens, complete with fire pits and private seating areas, offer a serene escape. Guests are treated to a full-cooked breakfast made to order, enhancing the personalized experience. The inn also hosts an interactive High Tea Experience monthly and Wednesday Low Tea Lunches, adding a touch of British elegance to the Florida coast.

Photo: River Lily Inn-Unique Heart Shaped Pool

The River Lily Inn is deeply embedded in the Holly Hill community, hosting annual events like Cookies with Santa, which offers neighborhood children a festive experience of photos, face painting, milk, and cookies. The inn actively promotes Holly Hill to businesses considering relocation and opens its doors for Commemoration Of Life events. Through partnerships with local organizations like Pictona, the inn supports community activities and offers reduced rates for competitors. It also plays a role in the annual Holly Hill Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting, hosting Miss America, and supports the local police force financially.

Photo: River Lily Inn

The River Lily Inn recently introduced Wednesday Lunches, inviting locals to step back in time for a leisurely lunch in Polly's Tea Room or on the patio. This initiative allows the community to explore the historic home, with all lunches and desserts prepared in-house. The lunch service, available from 11AM to 1PM, requires pre-booking, ensuring a fresh and personalized dining experience.

Despite its visibility along Riverside Drive, many locals have yet to discover the River Lily Inn's offerings, particularly its affordable High Tea experience. Mary and Al Balloqui extend a warm invitation to all who have not yet visited to come and take a tour, promising an unforgettable experience steeped in history, hospitality, and heart.

For those seeking a unique stay, a taste of British tradition, or a picturesque venue for special occasions, the River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast in Holly Hill, awaits. Discover more about this Victorian gem at riverlilyinn.com, or give Mary a call at (386) 253-5002.

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