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⭐ "The Brown" Emerges, "A Crystal Christmas", Beach Driving Nixed

Issue #763

03 Dec

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Today’s Forecast

Tropical Update
The Tropical Update Has Been Suspended For The Season Unless Something Develops

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🏛️ The Brown Aims to Be Volusia’s Cultural Crown Jewel

The Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach has officially embraced a bold new identity as “The Brown: The Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, Science & History.” More than just a name change, this rebrand marks the museum’s ambitious mission to become the cultural heart of Volusia County—and perhaps even the Southeast.

At a Dec. 1 event, the museum unveiled plans for a new 60,000-square-foot building featuring a 60-foot planetarium sphere, a multisensory performance hall, and a revamped education trail along the Tuscawilla Preserve. The project, dubbed the "Crown Jewel Campaign," promises an experience where art, science, and history converge for all ages.

The Browns have pledged a staggering $150 million endowment—$75 million upfront and the remaining as a 3-for-1 match on community donations. Combined with prior contributions and artwork, their support totals a $175 million investment. The current MOAS building will close in March 2026, with construction of the new facility expected to take two to three years.

This effort, says Hyatt Brown, is about more than bricks and mortar: “This is going to be—and is—part of the soul of Volusia County.”

🎄 'A Crystal Christmas' Shines at The Casements

Ormond Beach is about to get a sparkling makeover. “A Crystal Christmas,” the 47th annual holiday gala hosted by The Casements Guild, kicks off Friday, Dec. 5, with a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.

The historic John D. Rockefeller estate will be dressed in icy hues of blue, silver, and white, with live entertainment and family-friendly fun continuing until 9 p.m. The celebration doesn’t stop there—Saturday and Sunday feature open house tours, a 20-tree gallery decorated by local organizations, holiday shopping, crafts, and a special appearance from a mannequin dressed as Disney’s Elsa (photo ops encouraged).

Gala Chair Becky Panknin and Guild President Jayde Lyle credit a 50-person volunteer crew and year-round planning for pulling off the beloved tradition. “Look what we did—again,” Panknin said proudly.

Lyle added, “Just to change it up every year is spectacular, really.” From Victorian carolers to glistening garlands, it’s the kind of classic holiday magic that brings the community together—no snow required.

🚫 Beach Driving Talks Stalled by County Council

The sand has officially settled—Volusia County Council has voted 5-2 to end discussions on restoring beach driving between Auditorium Boulevard and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach.

Though the proposal was up for renewed talks after an April vote to explore options, opposition from area property owners and legislative roadblocks proved too much. Only Chairman Jeff Brower and Councilman Troy Kent supported continuing the conversation.

Kent called the 2000 removal of driving access from the area “an epic failure” and argued that bringing cars back could revive the local economy. Supporters—including some Main Street business owners—agree, saying beach access is a draw for visitors and dollars.

But other council members weren’t convinced. District 5’s David Santiago noted that beach driving may not be the fix: “I think it's economic investment.”

With property concerns, state legislative hurdles, and no clear consensus, the idea has once again been parked—for now.

Recent Deaths

Get into the holiday spirit with an afternoon of Christmas classics. Bel Canto Singers under the direction of Dr. Adam Stich, will present beloved modern and classic Christmas songs. Tickets are available in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. For additional information visit BelCantoDaytona.org, email [email protected] or call 404-376-2737

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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:
 Wed Dec 3

  • Event: Ormond By The Sea Lions Club Meeting, 6:30 PM,
    (New Location) GraceLife Beachside Church Hall, 6 Sandra Drive, Ormond Beach
    All Are Welcome!  More info at (386) 441-4421

  • Event: UF/IFAS Volusia Master Gardener Free Plant Clinic & Educational Program For Homeowners, 10:00 a.m. to 12pm
    Ormond Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Avenue, Ormond Beach. Bring photos or examples to identify and correct plant problems, and learn Florida gardening tips. December is talk on “Planting Trees & Scrubs”.

  • Event: 🎨 <Mixed Media Night Light or Suncatcher Class>, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM The Salty Mermaid, 1546 - 1548 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach Create two nightlights or suncatchers from a variety of items including colored glass, bling stickers, starfish, and charms in this mixed media class.

  • Event: 🏛️ <Board of Adjustments & Appeals>, 6:00 PM City Hall (Commission Chambers), 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach A public hearing of the Ormond Beach Board of Adjustments and Appeals.

  • Event: 🥒 <US Senior Pickleball On-Court Demo & Convo>, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill A special on-court demonstration and conversation featuring senior pro Dayne Gingrich and pickleball yogi Jill Martin, focusing on mental and physical strategy.

  • Event: 🕯️ Coping with Grief During the Holidays Workshop, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    Private Location, 3741 Mayo Cir, Ormond Beach
    A workshop designed to help individuals cope with grief during the holiday season.

 Thu Dec 4

  • Event: 🧺Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
    Ormond Beach City Hall, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Located at City Hall Plaza, this market features fresh local produce, baked goods, honey, plants, and artisan crafts.

  Fri Dec 5

  • Event: 🎭 <CMTW Presents Frozen Jr.>, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Ormond Beach Performing Arts, 399 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach The Children's Musical Theatre Workshop presents "Frozen Jr.", bringing the magical land of Arendelle to life on stage

  • Event: 🎄 <66th Annual Holly Hill Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony>, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Holly Hill Municipal Building (City Hall), 1065 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill Join in one of Holly Hill's most cherished traditions on the front steps of City Hall. Enjoy holiday cheer, festive performances, and a special visit from Santa Claus!

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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