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Briscoe, Cindric Lock In Front Row for Great American Race

Chase Briscoe secured the pole position for the 67th running of the Daytona 500, making history as the first driver to claim the top spot for Toyota in the event. His No. 19 Bass Pro Shops Toyota clocked a lap at 182.745 mph, narrowly beating Austin Cindric, who will start second.

Briscoe’s pole win comes in his debut season with Joe Gibbs Racing, following the closure of Stewart-Haas Racing. The remainder of the starting grid will be set in Thursday night’s Duel races, where drivers will compete to finalize positions.

Two NASCAR champions returning from retirement—Martin Truex Jr. and Jimmie Johnson—also secured their spots in the race through Wednesday’s qualifying. Six remaining drivers will vie for the final two starting positions. With a competitive field and high stakes, the stage is set for an intense weekend leading up to Sunday’s Daytona 500.

Source: See Full Story and Starting Positions at News Daytona Beach

Volusia Weighs Move to Monthly School Board Meetings

The Volusia County School Board is considering reducing its meetings to once a month, a move some members argue would allow for more thorough discussions and give staff additional time to implement board directives. The proposal, introduced by board member Donna Brosemer, mirrors a format already in place in Palm Beach County. Supporters believe the change could improve efficiency and lessen the administrative burden. However, concerns persist about whether a monthly schedule could delay time-sensitive decisions and lead to excessively long meetings. Board Chair Jamie Haynes has expressed openness to the idea but cautioned against overburdening single sessions or requiring frequent emergency meetings. Some members suggest that expanding the use of workshops could be a viable alternative. As the board weighs its options, discussions are expected to continue in the coming months to determine the best path forward.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Construction Begins at Cassen Park as $2.5 Million Revamp Moves Forward

Construction has commenced on a $2.5 million redevelopment of Cassen Park in Ormond Beach, which is expected to enhance the park’s facilities. The parking lot will be closed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until late February. During this period, visitors are directed to park at Bailey Riverbridge Park and walk to Cassen Park via a nearby pathway. Temporary restrooms will also be provided at Bailey Riverbridge.

The project includes the relocation of the bait shop closer to the Granada Bridge, expanded parking with additional boat trailer spaces, and the addition of stormwater ponds. The redesign also features a new formal garden and native landscaping along the park entrance. Although construction may disrupt parking, other amenities such as the bait shop, pier, and dock will remain open. The city expects to complete the project in time for its annual July 4th celebration.

Source: See Full Story in Hometown News

Thunderbirds to Conduct Pre-Daytona 500 Flyovers on Friday, Saturday

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will perform a flyover before Sunday’s Daytona 500, with practice runs scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on both Friday and Saturday. The elite aerial demonstration team’s plans remain subject to weather conditions and other factors that could alter the timing.

While Daytona 500 tickets are no longer available, the practice sessions provide an opportunity for aviation and racing fans to witness the Thunderbirds in action over Daytona International Speedway. However, it remains unclear where spectators can best view the flyovers, as the Daytona Beach Police Department has not yet issued guidance on parking or recommended locations.

The Thunderbirds’ pre-race flyover is a highly anticipated tradition, serving as a dramatic prelude to the start of the Daytona 500, one of NASCAR’s most prestigious events.

Source: See Full Story at Daytona News-Journal

Flagler County Deputies, Snipers Deployed for Daytona 500 Security

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will send 23 deputies, including five snipers, to assist with security at Sunday’s Daytona 500. Their deployment, under a mutual aid agreement with Volusia County, ensures additional protection as crowds flood the area.

Flagler’s sniper team has earned national recognition, consistently ranking in the top 10 at the Snipercraft Challenge, a competition testing tactical judgment and precision under stress. While snipers typically operate out of the public eye, recent high-profile incidents—including a deadly Thanksgiving shooting in Volusia County and last year’s attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump—have underscored their role in critical situations.

With heightened security measures in place, officials aim to ensure a safe race day as thousands of fans gather at Daytona International Speedway.

Source: See Full Story at Daytona News Journal

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