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- ⭐ John Crisp Reef, ECHO Delayed, Rolex24 $$ Contribution, Rocky Is Missing
⭐ John Crisp Reef, ECHO Delayed, Rolex24 $$ Contribution, Rocky Is Missing
Issue #813
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Today’s Forecast
Tropical Update
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Photo: Volusia County
🪸 A Reef of Recognition for John Crisp
The Marine Science Center has just unveiled the John Crisp Artificial Reef Exhibit, honoring the late assistant beach safety chief whose dedication to ocean conservation and public safety made waves in Volusia County. A long-time lifeguard and leader, John Crisp helped shape the beach safety division into the respected unit it is today, advocating for teamwork, calm decision-making, and putting people — and the planet — first.
The new exhibit isn’t just a tribute — it’s a teaching tool. Artificial reefs like the ones Crisp championed help boost marine life and protect our coastal ecosystems, aligning with his vision of sustainability and education. The exhibit is part of the Center’s recent $4.2 million revamp, which added expanded classrooms, a coral lab, and enhanced animal habitats.
Thousands have already explored the new features since reopening, and now visitors will also get a chance to learn about the man whose legacy lives on beneath the waves.
Source: Volusia County
🗳️ ECHO Plan Delayed After Committee Clash
Things got a bit turbulent in the Volusia County Council chambers as the much-anticipated vote on the ECHO program’s 2040 strategic plan was tabled amid internal controversy. The delay came after committee member Doug Pettit claimed he and his peers never got to review the full final recommendations — a charge other committee leaders quickly disputed.
ECHO Advisory Committee Chair Reggie Santilli insisted the group had ample opportunity for input and had even approved their 2026 work plan based on the recommendations. But Pettit’s last-minute email sparked questions and heated council debate, with Councilman David Santiago going as far as to call the claims a “lie,” while others urged patience and due process.
As a result, the vote was postponed until February 3, pushing back the ECHO grant cycle and leaving nonprofits and municipalities waiting. For now, the drama continues — but the stakes remain high for a program that funds local environmental, cultural, and historical initiatives.
Source: Ormond Observer
🏁 Roaring Crowds, Rushing Cash: Rolex 24 Revives Daytona Beach
The engines are humming and so is the local economy, as the Rolex 24 revs up record-breaking attendance and economic activity in Daytona Beach. With thousands flocking to the Speedway for the iconic endurance race, local businesses like Copper Bottom Craft Distillery are seeing a much-needed post-holiday boost.
Owner Jeremy Craig said the event kicks off a critical season for many small businesses. “Once we get past the Rolex, it really starts building for us,” he shared. Events like this help bridge the slow "shoulder season" between major tourism peaks, and many hope the increased visibility continues to attract long-term investment.
Daytona International Speedway already delivers an estimated $1.7 billion in statewide economic impact, according to a recent FSU study — and the momentum shows no signs of slowing as the Daytona 500 and spring break loom on the horizon.
Source: MyNews13
Rocky
🐾 Missing: Rocky the Support Dog Sparks Community Search
A Daytona Beach Shores family is heartbroken after their beloved emotional support dog, Rocky, ran away following a car accident that injured his owner, Frank. The cattle dog mix bolted in fear after the two were hit in a crosswalk on January 20. While Frank is recovering from surgery, the family's emotional recovery hinges on bringing Rocky home.
Rocky was last seen wearing a harness with his leash still attached, but he had no collar and is not microchipped. His mom, Vivian Rivera, has been overwhelmed by the community’s support, with neighbors, strangers, and even someone offering to rent a billboard to aid the search.
If spotted, the family urges people not to chase him — take a photo, note the location, and contact Rivera at (720) 229-9464. “He’s more than a pet,” she said. “Rocky is family.”
Source: Fox35
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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:
📅 Sunday, Jan 25, 2026
🏁 The Grand Finale
The 64th Rolex 24 at Daytona (Finish)
The final hours of the race are often the most intense as exhausted drivers fight for position. The 24-hour clock officially hits zero in the early afternoon, followed by the trophy presentations in Victory Lane. It is a bucket-list moment for sports fans.
Time: Race concludes approx. 1:40 PM
Location: Daytona International Speedway
🎻 Arts & Culture
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (Daytona Beach Symphony Society)
A world-class cultural event to contrast the morning's racing engines. The Daytona Beach Symphony Society presents the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (London) featuring pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason. They will be performing works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Rachmaninoff.
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach
🥂 Brunch & Leisure
Sunday Brunch @ Hard Rock Hotel
Whether you are celebrating a race win or just the weekend, enjoy the ocean breeze and a mimosa on the Sessions Terrace. Live acoustic music sets the mood.
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Ormond Beach Farmers Market (Sunday Option?)
Note: While the main Ormond market is Thursday, Sundays are great for visiting Tomoka State Park or Bulow Creek State Park to see the Fairchild Oak if you need a quiet nature escape after the loud race weekend.
🧘 Wellness
AumShanti Yoga: Dream On, Stretch Long
Recover from the excitement of the weekend with a gentle, restorative yoga class.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Rock Royalty Terrace)
Monday, Jan 26, 2026
🏗️ Civic & Neighborhood Development
Neighborhood Meeting: 1190 W. Granada Blvd
A significant meeting for residents interested in local development. Representatives for the property owner (Engineer Realty LLC) will discuss a proposed Small Scale Comprehensive Plan amendment for the property at 1190 West Granada Blvd. This is your chance to ask questions before it goes to the Planning Board.
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Ormond Beach Regional Library (30 S. Beach St)
🧘 Wellness & Recovery
AumShanti Yoga: Living on the Breath
After a loud weekend at the track, find some quiet. This alignment-based yoga class focuses on breathwork and stress reduction.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Rock Royalty Terrace)
Get moving with low-impact options at the Daytona Shores Community Center:
Zumba Gold: 10:30 AM
Chair Volleyball: 1:00 PM
Location: Daytona Shores Community Center
🍽️ Dining Specials
If you aren't ready to let go of the weekend sports vibe, D&B offers "Game Day" specials, including deals on wings and arcade play.
Time: All Day
Location: Dave & Buster's, Daytona Beach (near Tanger Outlets)
Grind Gastropub: All-Day Happy Hour
Monday is "Locals' Night" with Happy Hour pricing from open to close. A perfect spot to debrief the race weekend with friends.
Time: 11:30 AM – Close
Location: Grind Gastropub, Ormond Beach
🏛️ City Business
Ormond Beach Special Magistrate Hearing
A regular hearing for code enforcement and city ordinance matters.
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: City Hall Commission Chambers
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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