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- ⭐ OBPD Promotions, Daytona PD Beach Office, New Motorsports Museum Leader
⭐ OBPD Promotions, Daytona PD Beach Office, New Motorsports Museum Leader
Issue #797
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Table of Contents
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Today’s Forecast
Tropical Update
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Photo: Ormond Beach Police Dept.
👮 Promotions and Honors for Ormond Beach’s Finest
Ormond Beach Police Department had plenty to celebrate recently as three officers were promoted and key members of the department’s Special Response Team were honored. In a Jan. 7 ceremony, Officers Rick Taylor and Joshua Morris moved up to corporal, while Officer Rhett Summerlot earned his stripes as sergeant. Known for their leadership, hard work, and accolades—including past "Officer of the Year" honors—these promotions were described as a no-brainer by Sgt. Caleb Braun.
Braun explained how Taylor and Morris originally took the corporal exam just for experience. But after “crushing it,” the department didn’t hesitate to promote them—even if it meant a major shakeup of the motor unit. The ceremony also recognized the founding members of OBPD’s Special Response Team, launched in 2018, including Ormond Beach Fire Battalion Chief Joe Dupree, Officer Michael Carini, and Sgt. Josh DeLong.
From career achievements to community service, these officers exemplify the high standards and commitment that Ormond Beach PD strives to uphold.
Source: Ormond Observer
🚓 Daytona Beach PD Brings Safety to the Shoreline
Just down the road, the Daytona Beach Police Department is making waves of its own—with a new satellite office planned for the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. The city commission gave the green light on Jan. 8 to a rent-free lease, aiming to enhance public safety near the bustling boardwalk.
The beachfront location promises a more visible police presence and peace of mind for locals and businesses alike, including the historic Starlite Diner. Manager Christina Barker welcomes the move, citing concerns about crime after sunset. “You feel better when you see that squad car,” she said.
The lease, initially for 24 months with automatic annual renewals, allows for limited police activity on-site—but with no structural changes or detention facilities. Some residents are skeptical about cost and feasibility, but city officials believe the presence will benefit the area’s reputation and safety.
While not a full-blown substation, the new outpost will give officers a crucial foothold right where the action is—on the beach.
Source: MyNews13
🏁 New Leadership at the Helm of Motorsports Hall of Fame
Racing into a new era, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA) in Daytona Beach has named Daren Lucas as its new president. Lucas brings with him a powerhouse résumé in sports marketing and leadership, including roles with NASCAR, Daytona International Speedway, and most recently, a decade-long consulting stint with Soulor Group.
Lucas steps into a legacy built by former presidents George Levy and the late Ron Watson, who together spanned the Hall’s leadership for nearly four decades. The Hall, located next to Daytona International Speedway, is poised for continued growth under Lucas’ guidance. According to board chair Paul Doleshal, “We are more than confident that we have found the right person.”
The appointment is also a personal homecoming—Lucas’ ties to the area are deep, and his family has historic roots in racing. His wife is the daughter of stock car pioneer Dink Widenhouse, and their daughter was born in Daytona. Lucas is ready to honor motorsports' past while steering the Hall into an exciting future.
Source: NewsDaytonaBeach
Recent Arrests
Ormond Beach Police Department
Jessica E. Urquhart (39) – Arrested on 2023-12-27. Charge(s): Possession of a Schedule II substance, battery on a law enforcement officer. Bail: Not set.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office
Phil Crag Jones (36) – Arrested on 2023-12-29. Charge(s): Possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, paraphernalia, driving with a canceled license, introduction of contraband to county detention facility, tampering with physical evidence. Bail: $11,000.
Michael Kenneth Kirby (56) – Arrested on 2023-12-30. Charge(s): Petit theft. Bail: $2,500.
Leslie D. Taylor (44) – Arrested on 2024-01-01. Charge(s): Possession of a controlled substance without a prescription. Bail: $2,500.
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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:
Friday, Jan 9, 2026
🎨 Arts & Culture (Signature Event)
The 36th annual gallery walk and street party is a must-do for locals. Start at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum to view the latest exhibits, then stroll to The Casements and the Historic MacDonald House. The evening features live music (including the band Wispi in the gardens), food trucks, and free admission to all historical stops.
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & The Casements (Granada Blvd)
🛥️ Festivals & Expos
The region's premier boat show drops anchor at the Daytona International Speedway. See the latest models from Central Florida’s top dealers, browse marine accessories, and enjoy the "Boat Show Pirates" entertainment. It’s located in the Turn One Plaza.
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Daytona International Speedway (Turn One Plaza)
Florida Underground Music Festival
A showcase of independent music featuring local and regional underground artists. Day 1 kicks off a weekend of diverse sounds.
Time: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Doors open early)
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport (Verify venue locally)
🎭 Headline Concert
Praised by Beatles promoter Sid Bernstein as "the best on the scene," this premier tribute act recreates the music of Paul McCartney, spanning his work with The Beatles and Wings. A nostalgic night of hits like "Live and Let Die" and "Hey Jude."
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach
🏆 Sports
98th South Atlantic Women's Amateur ("The Sally")
Play continues in one of the oldest and most prestigious amateur golf tournaments in the country. Spectators are welcome to walk the historic course at Oceanside Country Club to watch the action.
Time: Morning Tee Times
Location: Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Kevin McLoughlin Band @ The Falls
Catch this high-energy guitar rock band performing live at one of Ormond's newest spots.
Time: Evening
Location: The Falls, Ormond Beach
Friday nights come alive on the oceanfront Sessions Terrace with live bands and cocktails under the stars.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Saturday, Jan 10, 2026
🏃 Sports & Active
AdventHealth Moonlight Beach Run
Lace up your running shoes for a unique evening race on the "World's Most Famous Beach." The event features a 5K, 10K, and the "Bandshell Challenge" (15K). The race starts at the Daytona Beach Bandshell and runs north on the sand under the stars.
Time: Races start at 4:30 PM (Sunset/Evening)
Location: Daytona Beach Bandshell & Oceanfront
Florida Winter Volleyball Festival
The Ocean Center transforms into a massive volleyball arena for this two-day tournament. Watch top club teams from across the state compete in high-energy matches.
Time: All Day (Matches start approx. 8:00 AM)
Location: Ocean Center, Daytona Beach
98th South Atlantic Women's Amateur ("The Sally")
Today is the Championship Round of the historic "Sally" golf tournament. Spectators are welcome to walk the course at Oceanside Country Club to watch some of the world's best amateur women golfers compete for the title.
Time: Final Round Tee Times (Morning)
Location: Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach
🥦 Farmers Markets
Daytona Beach Downtown Farmers Market
Spend your Saturday morning strolling along the Halifax River. Browse fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, and plants on City Island.
Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Market @ Magnolia (Beach St. & Magnolia Ave), Daytona Beach
🎸 Live Music & Nightlife
Speed Limit 70 @ Hard Rock Hotel
Get ready to dance to hits from the 70s through the 00s. The band Speed Limit 70 takes over the oceanfront Sessions Terrace for a high-energy Saturday night.
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Florida Underground Music Festival
Day 2 of this independent music showcase features local and regional underground artists performing live.
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport (Verify venue locally)
🎨 Arts & Culture
The museum exhibitions are open today. It is a perfect quiet escape after a busy week to see the latest installation or walk through the lush gardens.
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Ormond Memorial Art Museum
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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