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⭐ Policies, Taxes, Playlists, and Social Security
Issue #512

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Table of Contents

Today’s Forecast
Tropical updates will resume on June 1.
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📚 Books, Laws & the School Board Shuffle
Volusia County Schools is taking another swing at updating its book challenge policy, despite the legal and legislative fog surrounding the issue. The School Board has unanimously voted to advertise changes to Policy 320, which include streamlining the book review process, clarifying objection procedures, and allowing for book re-evaluation after three years. With zero book challenges reported this year, some board members questioned whether the updates are even necessary—or if they'll hold up against proposed state legislation that could further restrict content. Still, district leaders say the updates are needed to relieve administrative burdens and create consistency. Board Chair Jamie Haynes summed it up: “I’m not kicking this down the road again.”
Source: Ormond Observer
💸 Tax Help That’s More Than Just Numbers
If doing your taxes makes you want to hide under a blanket, you’re not alone. That’s where the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program steps in. Ormond Beach’s own Tonya Dowling has been helping folks file for free for 20 years through VITA, which is run by the United Way of Volusia and Flagler Counties. Certified by the IRS, VITA volunteers assist with returns and help eligible taxpayers get important credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. For some, it’s more than a refund—it’s a lifeline. Dowling recalls one mom in a shelter who was able to move into an apartment thanks to her return. With the deadline extended to May 1 in Florida, there's still time to take advantage of this free service.
Source: Ormond Observer
🎸 Rock Out with Your Parking Pass Out
Ready to unleash your inner headbanger? Welcome to Rockville is back May 15-18 at Daytona International Speedway, and this year’s lineup is louder than ever. With Shinedown, Green Day, Linkin Park, and Korn headlining across four days and five stages, expect a record-breaking crowd to match the epic vibes. Fans should plan ahead—general and premium 4-day parking passes are already sold out. Single-day passes are still available online, but they'll go fast. Remember: this is Florida, and the show goes on rain or shine...unless a storm rolls in like it did in 2022. Whether you're coming for Rob Zombie, Alice In Chains, or Marilyn Manson, Rockville is Daytona’s loudest weekend of the year.
Source: Daytona News-Journal
After swift backlash, the Social Security Administration is softening its stance on newly proposed identity verification requirements. Originally set to require all applicants to appear in person—even as offices were closing—the SSA has revised the rule to allow those applying for disability, Medicare, or SSI to complete the process by phone if they can’t use the online system. The policy, now delayed until April 14, was widely criticized for creating unnecessary barriers, especially for the most vulnerable. Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek acknowledged the concerns and pledged better customer service through updated training and improved flexibility. For millions of Americans, this revision means one less trip to the field office—and one less bureaucratic headache.
Source: ClickOrlando.com

The Dilemma of Dental Care for Aging Dogs

As dogs enter their golden years, their owners often grapple with tough health care choices—none more pressing than whether to anesthetize them for tooth cleaning. Sources acknowledge that anesthesia carries inherent risks, slightly elevated for senior dogs, yet these risks remain small. Studies show complication rates for older dogs hover below 2%, a modest increase from younger pets but still a low threshold.
The decision, however, demands careful consideration. Sources recommend a multi-step approach to enhance safety. A physical exam well before the procedure can reveal issues like heart murmurs or erratic pulses, potentially prompting further tests such as echocardiograms or X-rays. Bloodwork is increasingly non-negotiable, as it uncovers hidden organ problems—like liver or kidney issues—that could complicate anesthesia. Fluids during the procedure are another safeguard, countering dehydration risks that seniors face more acutely. Most clinics also rely on pulse oximeters to track oxygen levels, enabling quick adjustments if breathing falters.
For hesitant owners, the alternative carries its own weight. Sources warn that skipping dental care can unleash serious consequences. Periodontal disease, common in nearly 90% of senior dogs, releases bacteria into the bloodstream when they eat, risking heart infections, liver damage, brain complications, or kidney failure. Research has tied a notable share of heart disease in older dogs to untreated dental issues, highlighting the procedure’s broader health implications.
The call ultimately lies with the owner. Sources stress, however, that tooth cleaning transcends cosmetics—it’s a vital defense against life-threatening conditions. With risks low and benefits substantial, the scales often tip toward action.
⭐ Today's Meme ⭐

⭐⭐Local Business Directory⭐⭐
Please Patronize Your Local Businesses!

Ormond North Beach Cam at Ormond Lifeguard Station
Ormond South Beach Cam at Cardinal Drive - Not Available
Ormond by the Sea South Beach Cam - Not Available
Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info
Thu Mar 27
Event: Ormond Beach Farmers Market @ David Hood Plaza, 8 AM–1 PM
Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 22 S Beach St, Ormond BeachEvent: Board of Directors Meeting, 8:30–9:30 AM
Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, 165 W Granada Blvd, Ormond BeachEvent: Semi-Private Training (1-day Session 12pm–2pm), 12–2 PM
Ormond Beach Sports Complex, 700 Hull Rd, Ormond BeachEvent: Hormones, Health, Anti-Aging and The M Factor, 5–7 PM
Enchanted Medical Aesthetics, 276 N Nova Rd, Ormond BeachEvent: Faith & Vision - A Girl's Vision Board Night of..., 6–8 PM
Provision Packs, 289 Walnut St, Ormond BeachEvent: Gentle Flow, 6–7 PM
Sol Wellness Yoga Studio, 725 S Nova Rd, Ormond BeachEvent: Chuck Morrel, 7–11 PM
Grind Gastropub & Kona Tiki Bar, 49 W Granada Blvd, Ormond BeachEvent: Trivia Night at Kava Kula, 8–10 PM
Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond BeachFri Mar 28
Event: Men’s Conference, 12:00 AM
1687 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: Private Firearm Training Class Available-Call to Schedule, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, 165 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: Yoga Outdoors with Kim - February and March at 10am, 10:00 AM
Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: Semi-Private Training (1-day Session 2pm-4pm), 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Ormond Beach Sports Complex, 700 Hull Rd, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: COUNTRY WESTERN WORKSHOP & DANCE SOCIAL 7-10PM,
JJ's Dance Fusion, 298 S Nova Rd STE D, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: Rocky & The Rollers - Decades Dance Party!, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Pictona at Holly Hill, 1060 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill, FLEvent: JimmyAli at The Grind on Friday's, 9:00 – 11:55 PM
Grind Gastropub & Kona Tiki Bar, 49 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FLEvent: Fletcher’s Irish Pub & Brewery – Holly Hill, 8:30 PM
Fletcher's Brewery, 745 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill, FLEvent: Garden Talk: Bees! Check for times
Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FLSat Mar 29
Event: Tomoka Brave, Strong & Healthy 5K Run/Walk, 8:00 AM
Tomoka Elementary School, 999 Old Tomoka Road, Ormond Beach, FL 32174Event: 2025 Mayor's Health & Fitness Challenge Kick-off & Weigh-in, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Joe and Elwillie Daniels South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Avenue, Ormond Beach, FL 32174Event: Sound Bath with Kyrsten Sinclair, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL 32176Event: The Jake and Elwood Blues Revue, 7:00 PM
Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N US Highway 1, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
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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