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- ⭐ A Smoother Nova Rd., Brakes On AIA Project, Sheriff To Greet Scammer
⭐ A Smoother Nova Rd., Brakes On AIA Project, Sheriff To Greet Scammer
Issue #778
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Image: Courtesy of FDOT
🚧 Smoother Plans Ahead for Nova Road
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is shifting gears on its $19 million resurfacing project for Nova Road in Ormond Beach, thanks to updated traffic data and a renewed spirit of collaboration. During a city workshop on December 16, FDOT revealed modifications to a controversial design element—a 16-foot raised median—initially planned between Granada Boulevard and Wilmette Avenue. The change comes after traffic counts showed that the median would create problematic backups, particularly for drivers turning into local businesses like Truist Bank and Ormond Beach Marketplace.
Instead, most of the existing center turn lane will remain intact, with only a slight adjustment affecting access near the 7-Eleven by Publix. Commissioners did request a small extension of a traffic separator for safety, even if it limits direct access to Truist, noting that alternative routes remain available.
FDOT is also exploring new safety features, like flashing yellow turn arrows and adjusted right-turn-on-red rules. With construction slated for summer 2026, local officials are hopeful that the renewed cooperation between FDOT and Ormond Beach will lead to better results—and fewer headaches—this time around.
Source: Ormond Observer
🛑 A1A Project Hits the Brakes on Controversial Features
In Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach, FDOT is also making U-turns—but this time, on decisions already implemented. After strong public outcry over lane-narrowing bulb-outs, raised medians, and road "squiggles" installed as part of the A1A safety project, FDOT is backtracking on some of the more disruptive elements.
The $20 million project aimed to slow traffic and improve pedestrian safety, but residents and business owners weren’t impressed. Steve’s Famous Diner lost business due to an obstructive median, while Bellair Condos residents described the lane swerves as more dangerous than helpful. One truck even mounted a new bulb-out shortly after installation.
Responding to the outcry, FDOT removed some of the bulb-outs and medians, replacing them with painted lines. While not all features have been eliminated, changes like restored access to the diner and shoulder lanes have improved local sentiment. The agency maintains its commitment to safety, but now appears more attuned to balancing design goals with public input.
Source: Spectrum News 13
✈️ Sheriff Plans Scammer Showdown at Airport
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood is planning a not-so-warm welcome for an accused scammer arriving in Daytona Beach this Thursday. Robert Safford Goodwin, a 56-year-old Massachusetts travel agent, is being extradited to face charges of defrauding students, parents, and staff at Seabreeze High School out of $400,000 in a failed overseas trip scheme.
The Sheriff’s Office alleges Goodwin collected thousands from over 100 people for a 2024 educational trip to Italy and Greece through his company, Stone & Compass Inc. But just a month before departure, the trip was canceled, and the money never returned.
Florida’s Attorney General is also weighing in, filing a complaint that claims Goodwin’s business defrauded not only Seabreeze High but also students and faculty at Flagler College, who paid for trips ranging from Brazil to Zanzibar that never materialized. Altogether, the civil penalties could top $1.8 million, with nearly $800,000 in restitution potentially owed.
Sheriff Chitwood is encouraging victims to join him at Daytona Beach International Airport on December 18 at 5:45 p.m. for Goodwin’s arrival in handcuffs. Said Chitwood: “If you lost money to this scumbag, you are welcome to join me and look him in the eye.”
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:
Thursday, Dec 18, 2025
🎄 Holiday Parties & Entertainment
Ugly Sweater Party @ 31 Supper Club
It’s time to break out your most festive (and hideous) knitwear! This annual party features prizes for the "ugliest," "most creative," and "funniest" sweaters. Enjoy live music by Grammy-nominated duo Dana & Sharon on the patio.
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Doors open at 5 PM)
Location: 31 Supper Club, Ormond Beach
A high-energy twist on the classic game held outdoors in Victory Circle. Play for prizes while a live DJ keeps the vibes festive.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: ONE DAYTONA Victory Circle
Experience the "Jewel of Ormond Beach" fully decorated for the season. This evening open house allows you to tour the historic home's holiday splendor at night.
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Casements, Ormond Beach
🏆 Sports & Spectating
The Professional Pickleball Association tour continues its stop at Pictona. Thursday is a prime day to catch professional mixed doubles and high-level amateur play at one of the world's best facilities.
Time: 8:00 AM – Evening
Location: Pictona at Holly Hill
🎨 Arts & Culture
Exhibit Opening Reception at OMAM
Be among the first to see the new art installation at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum. Enjoy refreshments and meet fellow art lovers in the garden.
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
A guided morning tour exploring the Malcolm Fraser Permanent Collection and the history of the museum's gardens and veterans tributes.
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Ormond Memorial Art Museum
🌿 Nature & Outdoors
Explore Volusia: Wiregrass Prairie Hike
Take a guided hike through the pine flatwoods to learn about the local ecosystem. Registration is required.
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: Wiregrass Prairie Preserve (near Osteen/New Smyrna area)
Paddle through the local waterways with a guide from the Environmental Discovery Center. Advance registration is required.
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Environmental Discovery Center, Ormond Beach
🏛️ Civic & Community
Collective Bargaining Meeting: Meeting with the International Union of Police Associations (10:00 AM at City Hall, Room 103).
Friday, Dec 19, 2025
🎭 Major Concerts & Theater
Three Dog Night @ Peabody Auditorium
Legendary rock band Three Dog Night brings their chart-topping hits like "Joy to the World" and "Mama Told Me (Not to Come)" to Daytona Beach for a nostalgic evening.
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach
Halifax Repertory Theatre: Jingles & Jammies
A fun and festive holiday revue featuring local talent. The audience is encouraged to wear their favorite holiday pajamas!
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
A magical evening of holiday classics performed by a string quartet under the gentle glow of thousands of candles. A truly unique and romantic experience.
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Brannon Center, New Smyrna Beach (Short drive south)
🎄 Holiday Fun for Families
Holiday Movie Night: "The Santa Clause"
Bring a blanket or lawn chair to the Rose Garden for a free outdoor screening of the holiday classic The Santa Clause. Popcorn and refreshments available.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Esplanade, Daytona Beach (Rose Garden)
Holiday Bazaar & Santa Sightings
Before the movie, stroll the riverfront to shop for unique gifts at the Holiday Bazaar and snap a photo with Santa. Live holiday music fills the air.
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Esplanade, Daytona Beach
🎸 Nightlife & Live Music
Mary Kate Brennan: OB Beverage House Grand Opening
Celebrate the grand opening of Ormond Beach's newest spot, OB Beverage House, with a live performance by local favorite Mary Kate Brennan.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: OB Beverage House, Ormond Beach
Rock out to high-energy covers on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Dana & Sharon: Live at 31 Supper Club
Grammy-nominated entertainers Dana & Sharon perform a mix of holiday favorites and classic hits in the elegant speakeasy dining room.
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: 31 Supper Club, Ormond Beach
🏆 Sports
The pro pickleball action heats up with Men's & Women's Pro Doubles matches all day. A great chance to see the world's best players in fast-paced doubles action.
Time: 8:00 AM – Evening
Location: Pictona at Holly Hill
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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