- Ormond Local Pulse
- Posts
- ⭐ OBFD Celebrates, Kurt Russell Driveing, Ellen Gilland Speaks, Another Arctic Blast
⭐ OBFD Celebrates, Kurt Russell Driveing, Ellen Gilland Speaks, Another Arctic Blast
Issue #816
In partnership with
Note: 👉👉👉 You can always READ ONLINE
Table of Contents
+
Today’s Forecast
Tropical Update
The Tropical Update Has Been Suspended For The Season Unless Something Develops
Swipe image left for more daily forecasts
L-R: FF Pinkham, Capt. Dupree, DE Singer; Photo City of Ormond Beach
🚒 Ormond Beach Fire Department Celebrates Its Finest
The Ormond Beach Fire Department gathered for its second annual banquet to honor the dedication and bravery of its team — with Firefighter Marc Pinkman earning the department’s top recognition as Firefighter of the Year. The award, named after late firefighter Ethan Wilson, was presented by Wilson’s widow, Ashley, who praised Pinkman’s professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to growth.
In addition to Pinkman, the department recognized Jamie Singer as Driver Engineer of the Year for his leadership and mentorship, Battalion Chief Joe Dupree as Captain of the Year for his steady guidance, and Firefighter Braden Hansard as Paramedic of the Year for exceptional patient care and passion for EMS.
Several crews were also applauded for extraordinary service, including:
• Capt. Garrett Fiske, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski, Firefighter RL Durham, and Firefighter Ben Loyd for rescuing crash victims — and a mastiff — from a serious three-vehicle collision
• Capt. Patrick Soard, Firefighter Evan Loveless, and Firefighter Nick Duh for reviving an unresponsive patient with CPR and advanced cardiac care
• Battalion Chief Jerimiah Ingraham, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski, Firefighter Vann Meadows, and Firefighter Ben Loyd for rescuing 17 malnourished dogs and puppies from a locked trailer
• Capt. Carrie Davis, Firefighter Evan Loveless, and Firefighter Drake Goodman for saving a cardiac arrest patient by clearing a blocked airway
• Battalion Chief Joe Dupree, Driver Engineer Robert Zalewski, and Firefighter Nick Duh for assisting toddlers and an infant found injured, while coordinating care and comfort for the family
Fire Chief Howard Bailey closed the evening by reminding honorees they set the standard for excellence within the department.
Source: Ormond Observer
🏁 Kurt Russell Set to Pace the Daytona 500
Movie legend Kurt Russell will be taking the wheel in a different kind of starring role next month — as the honorary pace car driver for the 68th running of the Daytona 500.
Daytona International Speedway announced Russell will lead the field during pre-race laps before the green flag drops on February 15. Known for iconic films like Escape from New York, The Thing, and Big Trouble in Little China, Russell has also appeared in blockbuster franchises like Fast & Furious and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Russell shared his excitement in a statement, saying it’s been a long time since he’s been behind the wheel of a race car and that he’s thrilled to be part of such a legendary event.
His appearance comes as he stars in Season 2 of Apple TV’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, where he portrays an Army colonel investigating the aftermath of massive monster attacks alongside his son, actor Wyatt Russell.
Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher noted Russell’s cultural impact mirrors the enduring legacy of the Daytona 500 — blending competition, spectacle, and memorable moments.
The race begins at 2:30 p.m. with national coverage on FOX.
Source: NewsDaytonaBeach
⚖️ Ellen Gilland Speaks After Hospital Shooting and Release
Ellen Gilland, the 79-year-old woman who fatally shot her terminally ill husband inside AdventHealth Daytona Beach in 2023, is now out of prison after serving most of a one-year sentence. The tragic incident triggered an hours-long standoff and hospital lockdown.
Gilland recently spoke with FOX 35 News, explaining the failed murder-suicide plan she and her husband Jerry had discussed amid his worsening health, dementia, and depression. According to Gilland, she retrieved a pistol, returned to the hospital, and shot her husband in his room before becoming too hysterical to take her own life.
When staff investigated the gunshot, Gilland pointed the weapon at them, forcing employees to flee and shelter in place. Police eventually ended the standoff using a flashbang device. No one else was injured.
Gilland later pleaded no contest to manslaughter and multiple assault charges. She was released in November and is now serving 12 years of probation with monthly community service, recently volunteering at an animal shelter.
Her case continues to reignite debate over end-of-life laws in Florida, which prohibit medically assisted dying. Gilland says she hopes for legal changes, while experts emphasize hospice and emotional support resources for families facing terminal illness.
Source: Fox35
❄️ Arctic Air Brings Record Cold to Central Florida
Image: WESH.com
Central Florida is bracing for an extended blast of Arctic air this week as a powerful cold front sweeps through the region.
Forecasters say wind chills will plunge into the 20s during the early mornings, with daytime highs struggling to reach beyond the 40s and 50s. Cold weather advisories remain in effect through Wednesday morning, while freeze warnings cover Volusia, Lake, Marion, and Sumter counties.
WESH 2’s First Warning Weather team has declared Impact Weather Days for Tuesday through Thursday due to the prolonged cold stretch. Even more concerning, Sunday and Monday have been labeled Severe Weather Warning Days, with “feels-like” temperatures possibly dipping into the single digits and teens.
Meteorologists are even watching the potential — though uncertain — chance of flurries as cold air and moisture collide.
Residents are urged to protect plants, pets, pipes, and people as temperatures drop well below seasonal norms.
Source: WESH.com
The Year-End Moves No One’s Watching
Markets don’t wait — and year-end waits even less.
In the final stretch, money rotates, funds window-dress, tax-loss selling meets bottom-fishing, and “Santa Rally” chatter turns into real tape. Most people notice after the move.
Elite Trade Club is your morning shortcut: a curated selection of the setups that still matter this year — the headlines that move stocks, catalysts on deck, and where smart money is positioning before New Year’s. One read. Five minutes. Actionable clarity.
If you want to start 2026 from a stronger spot, finish 2025 prepared. Join 200K+ traders who open our premarket briefing, place their plan, and let the open come to them.
By joining, you’ll receive Elite Trade Club emails and select partner insights. See Privacy Policy.
Recent Deaths
Charles Patrick Donahue, 87, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 26, 2026.
Joseph Allen Dukes, 76, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 19, 2026.
Martha Jane Beal, 101, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 24, 2026.
Sandra J Buchan, 81, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 23, 2026.
William H. Nelson, 79, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 15, 2026.
Henry Joseph Leyland Jr., 92, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 20, 2026.
Billy Joe Lee, 73, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 16, 2026.
Vernon Guy Reed Jr., 81, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 7, 2026.
Barbara G Halpin, 82, of Ormond Beach, passed away on January 16, 2026.
GET YOUR ORMOND PULSE VIP PASS
Receive Special News Notifications, Special Community Events, etc. Between Publications
Click Image
⭐⭐Local Business Directory⭐⭐
Please Patronize Your Local Businesses!
COMING SOON!
Get hands-on, no-fluff AI training built for local businesses—not tech geeks. Whether you run a salon, law firm, restaurant, or repair shop, or individual, we’ll show you how to use AI to save time, cut costs, and grow fast.
A community for everyone…local businesses, professionals, individuals.
Check out these proven AI prompts for Local Businesses
Looking for a Great Place To Eat?
Click Image
⭐ Today's Meme ⭐
Great Voucher Dealz
Digital coupons & vouchers for local businesses and their services.
Visit the Dealz page and get a great deal.
Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam
Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam
Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam
Ponce Inlet 180 degree Cam
Currently Unavailable
NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info:
Wednesday, Jan 28, 2026
🎨 Creative & Community
Veterans Creative Expressions Workshop
A free workshop for veterans and active-duty military (and one guest) at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum. Today’s session features "Gyotaku Printing"—the Japanese art of creating fish prints using ink and rubber molds. No art experience is necessary.
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Ormond Memorial Art Museum (Granada Blvd)
Authentic Living Circle: Free Open Session
The Ormond Beach Chamber hosts this mindfulness-based personal growth session online. It is a rare "open session" designed to give non-members a taste of the "Circle Hour" format.
Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Location: Online (Zoom Registration Required)
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Enjoy a powerhouse performance by Grammy-nominated entertainers Dana & Sharon on the Havana Bar patio. It’s a perfect pairing for their daily Happy Hour (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM).
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: 31 Supper Club, Ormond Beach
Relax mid-week with live music from Rick Grano on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace.
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
🏛️ Civic Deadline
North Beach Street Project: Public Comment
Today is the final day (deadline 5:00 PM) to submit public comments regarding the proposed elevation and improvement project for North Beach Street (between Tomoka River and Pine Tree Drive).
Time: Deadline at 5:00 PM
🧘 Wellness
AumShanti Yoga: Highway to OHM
A gentle yoga flow suitable for all levels, held on the Rock Royalty Terrace.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Get your steps in with an afternoon dance session at the community center.
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Daytona Shores Community Center
Private Submission
Thursday, Jan 29, 2026
🏛️ Civic & Town Hall
Volusia County Town Hall: Community Updates
Join County Council members Jake Johansson (At-Large) and Danny Robins (District 3) for an evening of community updates. This is an excellent opportunity to hear directly from elected officials about county projects and voice local concerns.
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Check official county listing for specific venue (Typically held at a local library or Government Center).
🤝 Business & Networking
Joint Chamber Ribbon Cutting: DBAAR
The Ormond Beach Chamber joins forces with other local chambers for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the Daytona Beach Area Association of Realtors. A great networking opportunity for professionals in the housing market.
Time: Check Chamber Calendar
Location: Daytona Beach Area Association of Realtors
Lunch n' Learn: Decode Your Work Style
Hosted by the American Advertising Federation (Daytona Beach). Learn how to lead, create, and collaborate more effectively with your team over lunch.
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Houligan's Speedway (Daytona Beach)
🏎️ Motorsports (Dirt Track)
Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Night 1)
While the asphalt track quiets down, the dirt track heats up! The famous "DIRTcar Nationals" series kicks off tonight at Volusia Speedway Park. Watch modifieds and late models tear up the clay in this high-energy winter racing series.
Time: Evening (Gates open approx. 5:00 PM)
Location: Volusia Speedway Park (Barberville - approx. 25 min drive)
🥦 Fresh & Local
The weekly market is open for business. Grab fresh produce, local honey, and artisan crafts under the shade of the live oaks.
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: City Hall Plaza, Ormond Beach
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Enjoy a solo performance by Zac Kellum on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace. Perfect for a relaxing Thursday night drink.
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
A community favorite where local musicians gather to play acoustic sets. Listeners are welcome.
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:45 PM
Location: Daytona Shores Community Center
🧘 Wellness
AumShanti Yoga: Free Your Mind Flow
A Vin/Yin fusion class designed to clear mental clutter.
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Rock Royalty Terrace)
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
Scan for event form
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.
We Want To Spotlight Your Business!
We ❤️ Local Businesses!
Our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Ormond Local Pulse" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Ormond Beach together!
⭐ Own a local business? ⭐
⭐ We WANT to spotlight YOUR business!! ⭐
❤️ Love a local business? Nominate them.
We could use your help!
We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!
One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.
Know somebody who lives in the Ormond Beach, Ormond-By-The-Sea, or Holly Hill areas that would benefit from being kept in the know?
Do you fancy yourself a writer? We’d love to feature articles from our neighbors and readers. If you’d like to contribute let us know HERE
 | Please share Ormond Local Pulse with your friends! Have them scan the QR code or send them the link below.. 👇👇👇👇 |
Reply