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  • ⭐ WIlliam Chanfrau, Sr/ Passes, New Medical Leader, Gold's Gym Donates

⭐ WIlliam Chanfrau, Sr/ Passes, New Medical Leader, Gold's Gym Donates

Issue #671

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WIllliam Chanfrau, Sr. - Courtesy Photo

⚖️ A Legacy of Justice: Bill Chanfrau Sr. Remembered

Ormond Beach is mourning the loss of one of its legal and civic pillars. William “Bill” Chanfrau Sr., founder of the renowned law firm Chanfrau & Chanfrau, passed away at 78 while on a cruise in Iceland. A fall and subsequent illness took him, but not before he shared jokes, sweets, and heartfelt goodbyes with his family — a fitting farewell for someone who lived life with both compassion and flair.

Chanfrau’s impact reached far beyond his courtroom victories. From founding the Volusia County Civil Trial Attorneys Association to receiving the Florida Bar’s pro bono service award, he was a champion for the underdog. Whether leading Bible study, supporting Rotary, or mentoring young lawyers, his commitment to service was constant. His children, all successful professionals, credit their father’s example for shaping their own careers.

With the firm nearing its 50th anniversary, Chanfrau’s legacy lives on — not just in billboards across the region, but in the lives he touched.

🩺 New Medical Leader Joins AdventHealth Daytona Beach

From North Carolina to the heart of Volusia County, Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith is bringing her wealth of experience to her new role as chief medical officer at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. With over 20 years in medicine, Dr. Harraway-Smith isn’t just a physician — she’s a systems thinker, advocate for quality, and believer in whole-person care.

Board-certified in both OB/GYN and family medicine, she most recently served as system chief quality officer at Cone Health. At AdventHealth, she steps in just as the hospital undergoes a $220 million expansion to improve care and capacity.

“I was drawn to AdventHealth because of its whole-person care philosophy,” she said. “It’s how people show up here, every day.” That people-first approach is expected to be a perfect match for a facility poised for major growth.

💃 Dancing for a Cause: Gold's Gym Ormond Beach Gives Back

What do you get when you mix back-to-school season with a Zumba-thon? A powerful fundraiser — and a lot of sweaty smiles. Gold’s Gym Ormond Beach stepped up this summer with a community-driven supply drive and dance event that raised over $500 for Champion Elementary.

Held throughout July and August, the gym collected backpacks, pencils, and other essentials before capping off the effort with a high-energy fundraiser on August 23. The turnout was strong — and so was the community spirit.

“This community continues to show up strong on the dance floor and for a great cause,” the gym shared. With their help, local students will head into the school year a little more prepared — and a little more supported.

BTR Poll Results: What Do You Think of Build-to-Rent?

We asked readers to share their thoughts on the growing Build-to-Rent (BTR) trend, where entire communities of single-family homes are constructed for rental rather than ownership. The results were decisive.

Out of 37 votes cast:

  • 26 voters (70.3%) said they are not happy about it at all.

  • 11 voters (29.7%) said they think it’s great.

Why Many Oppose Build-to-Rent

A strong majority voiced frustration that Build-to-Rent threatens traditional homeownership and community stability.

One respondent warned:

“Renters will be paying for no equity in their homes.”

Another expressed concern about the impact on neighborhoods:

“I think the renters will have less motivation to make their neighborhood great! This trend will continue social isolation problems and less safe neighborhoods due to lack of skin in the game.”

Others highlighted the role of corporations:

“I don’t like the idea of super corporations control of everything. Given time, rates will come down and let people buy their own home—not depend on some big corporation when they really don’t give a darn about you, only the money.”

Several readers linked the issue to broader economic challenges:

“We need lower interest rates now. It will be difficult for people to increase their wealth over the years. We will lose the pride of ownership.”

Why Some Support Build-to-Rent

While fewer in number, some readers see advantages to Build-to-Rent, particularly for retirees and families struggling with costs.

One supporter noted:

“What a brilliant idea! Home ownership is such a constant never ending worry, the upkeep is costly. Let landlord/builders pay the homeowners insurance, property taxes & costly unexpected repairs. Who needs all that worry when you’re retired living on fixed income, or a family that can barely afford rent?”

Another called it:

“A great option to apartment living.”

A Divided Debate

The responses highlight a clear split: most believe Build-to-Rent undermines long-term wealth and community ties, while a smaller group views it as a practical, low-stress alternative in today’s tough housing market.

We’ll continue monitoring how this trend develops in our area as new projects emerge.

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Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam

Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam

Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam

Ponce Inlet 180 degree Cam

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info

  

  • Event: 🎉Family Bingo, 9:30 – 10:30 PM
    1464 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Fun-filled family bingo night with games and prizes!

  • Event: 🌮Taco Tuesday at Kava Kula, 7 – 9 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach, FL
    Enjoy delicious tacos in a relaxed lounge atmosphere.

  • Event: 🧪Assessment/Testing — Calvary Christian Academy, Sep 2 – 12
    Calvary Christian Academy Preschool, 1681 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Preschool assessment and testing sessions.

  • Event: 💻The Tech Tutor, 10:30 – 11:30 AM
    Ormond In The Pines Senior Living, 101 Clyde Morris Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Get help with your tech questions in a friendly setting.

 Wed Sep 3

  • Event: Ormond By The Sea Lions Club Meeting, 6:30 PM,
    (Location to be announced)
    All Are Welcome! More info at (386) 441-4421

  • UF/IFAS Gardening Florida Style Workshop, 10:30am - 12n
    Proper Pruning of Plants & Bushes
    O.B. Environmental Discovery Center , 601 Division Ave, Ormond Beach
    Topics change monthly. For add’l info contact Irene Herring 386-295-0618. (Sep-May)

  • Event: 🎤 City Commission Meeting, 7 PM
    Ormond Beach City Hall, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Discussion of municipal governance, public input welcome.

  • Event: 😂 Wednesday Night 'LOL" Love our Locals w/The Gus Show, 6 – 9 PM
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy a fun evening with local entertainment and community vibes.

  • Event: 🍻 Wednesday is BINGO Night at Kava Kula, 7 – 11 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach
    Relax with some kava and win prizes during bingo night.

  • Event: 🧠 General Trivia!, 6:30 PM
    Copper Bottom Craft Distillery, 998 N Beach St, Holly Hill
    Challenge your knowledge and enjoy handcrafted spirits.

 Thu Sep 4

  • Event: 🥕Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 8 AM – 1 PM
    Ormond Beach City Hall, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach, FL
    Local farmers market with fresh produce and artisan goods.

  • Event: 🎨Elegance Unleashed — Art Spotlight, Sep 4 – 27
    Art Spotlight, 67 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Art exhibit showcasing elegance in local and regional artistic expressions.

  • Event: 🖼️Fur Ball Kick-Off Party
    Art Spotlight, 67 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Launch party for the upcoming Fur Ball, featuring community art and festivities.

  • Event: 🍗BEACHSIDE, 6:30 PM
    Salty D’s Beachside, 790 S Atlantic Ave, Ormond Beach, FL
    Enjoy beachside vibes with food, drinks, and entertainment.

  • Event: 🎮RC Car Night, 8:00 – 9:30 PM
    Ormond Beach Skate Park, 440 N Nova Rd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Bring your RC cars for a night of racing and fun at the skate park.

  • Event: 🎸Country Music Night with Adam Sean (DEBUT), 6 – 9 PM
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach, FL
    Debut performance of Adam Sean with classic and new country hits.

  • Event: 🤓Trivia Night at Kava Kula, 8 – 10 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach, FL
    Put your brain to the test in a chill lounge setting with drinks and prizes.

  • Event: 🏳️‍🌈Daytona Pride Meet & Greet, 6 – 8 PM
    Drunken Duck Brewing Company, 101 2nd St Unit 401, Holly Hill, FL
    Meet and connect with the local LGBTQ+ community over craft brews.

  • Event: 🎉Night Shift Party Weekend 4, 2:00 – 11:30 PM
    Iron Horse Saloon, 1068 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach, FL
    End of September bash with music, drinks, and biker vibes.

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

 

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.

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