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⭐ Walmart Expansion, Disaster Prep Tax, Lifeguard Competition, Costco Recalls

Issue #616

09 Jul

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⭐ Walmart Expansion, Disaster Prep Tax, Lifeguard Competition, Costco Recalls

Photo: City of Ormond Beach

🛒 Walmart's Ormond Expansion Eyes Aesthetic and Security Boost

The Ormond Beach Planning Board is revisiting a proposal to expand the Walmart at 1521 W. Granada Blvd. by 5,101 square feet to enhance its grocery pickup area. Originally delayed in March over concerns about aesthetics, safety, and transient activity, the plan is back on the agenda for July 10.

Since then, Walmart has worked with city staff to address these concerns. Improvements include clearing invasive vegetation from the landscape buffer, debris removal, and sidewalk repairs by FDOT. A new 6-foot chain link fence and upgraded paint job matching a “Mediterranean Beach style” are in the works. Private security has also been enlisted to monitor the site more effectively.

The upcoming review will also cover proposed amendments to local code, including the conditional use of tattoo studios in Central Business zoning and a departmental rename for Parks and Recreation.

🌀 Disaster Prep, Tax-Free and Year-Round

Floridians can now breathe a little easier when stocking up for hurricanes, wildfires, or other emergencies. A new law has made a wide range of disaster preparedness items permanently exempt from state sales tax, helping residents save while staying safe. This exemption covers essentials such as batteries, fire extinguishers, portable generators, waterproof tarps, and even sunscreen and bug spray.

Unlike previous seasonal tax holidays, this exemption is in effect 365 days a year—so there’s no need to wait until the next storm is looming. By encouraging early planning, the initiative aims to reduce last-minute scrambles and shortages when a storm is on the horizon.

Eligible tax-free items include:

  • Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, 9-volt)

  • Fire extinguishers

  • Portable generators

  • Tarps (up to 1,000 sq. ft.)

  • Smoke and CO alarms

  • Water containers (≤5 gallons)

  • Life jackets and anchor kits

  • Insect repellent and sunscreen

Need help building a kit? Visit Florida Disaster Supply Kit Guide.

🏖️ Lifeguard Championships Hit Daytona Beach

Get ready for a splash of athleticism and adrenaline. On July 23 and 24, Volusia County will host the 2025 James P. “Mac” McCarthy Regional Surf Lifesaving Championships outside Daytona’s Hard Rock Hotel. Over 200 elite lifeguards from across Florida will compete in surf races, rescue drills, and beach sprints.

Events like the Board Relay and Surf Ski test real-life lifesaving skills under pressure. Volusia’s own Beach Safety team will compete and co-host the high-stakes event. Spectators are welcome to join from the sand with beach chairs and refreshments. Parking is free for registered ParkVolusia users near University Boulevard.

Can’t make it? Catch the action livestreamed on the Volusia County Beaches Facebook and YouTube pages, complete with live commentary and interviews.

⚠️ Costco Recalls: Power Banks, Coolers, and More

Florida Costco members—check those receipts. Several popular items sold in-store and via Costco Next have been recalled due to serious safety concerns, from fire hazards to crushed fingers.

Here’s a quick list of items to stop using now:

  • Anker Power Banks (models A1257, A1263): Fire risk from overheating lithium-ion batteries.

  • Danby & Midea U-Shaped Window A/C Units: Mold risk from water pooling.

  • Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells (Models 552, 1090): Reports of plates detaching mid-use.

  • Igloo 90 Qt Flip & Tow Coolers: Finger amputation risk from faulty handles.

  • Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker + Air Fryer: Lid can open while pressurized—serious burn hazard.

  • Michelin Agilis CrossClimate Tires: Rubber detachment may lead to tire failure.

  • Bridgestone Blizzak 6 Tires: Missing DOT seal increases misuse risk.

Consumers should stop using these items immediately and check Costco’s Product Recalls Page for replacement or refund details.

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Ormond Beach 180 Degree Cam

Ormond by the Sea 180 degree Cam

Ormond By The Sea North Beach Cam

Ponce Inlet 180 degree 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

 Wed Jul 9

  • Event: Citizens For Ormond Beach Monthly Mtg - 5:30pm-6:30pm
    30 S. Beach St, Ormond Beach, FL|
    At each meeting, we discuss important local issues, upcoming events

  • Event: 🌱July Plant Bingo OB, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
    Ormond Brewing Company, 301 Division Ave UNIT 15, Ormond Beach, FL
    Join in for a fun bingo night featuring plants—great for plant lovers and enthusiasts!

    Event: 💰Budget Advisory Board, 5 PM
    Events Center at Ormond Beach, 1437 US-1 STE C1, Ormond Beach, FL
    City budget discussions—open to the public for insights into local fiscal planning.

    Event: 🤝Networking Group 2, 12 – 1 PM
    Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, 165 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Business networking opportunity for local professionals.

    Event: 🎭Leisure Services Advisory Board Meeting, 5:30 PM
    Ormond Beach Performing Arts, 399 US-1, Ormond Beach, FL
    Community meeting to discuss recreational services and events.

    Event: 🍷Business After Hours - Sea Dreams by Sara!, 4:30 – 6:30 PM
    Sea Dreams by Sara, 398 S Atlantic Ave, Ormond Beach, FL
    Mingle with local professionals in a relaxed beachside setting.

    Event: 🏋️‍♂️Budget Advisory Board, 5 PM
    Limitless Fitness Personal Training Studio, 1400 Hand Ave SUITE O, Ormond Beach, FL
    Community budget discussion in an alternative venue.

    Event: ⚾Private Training: 1 Day, 10 AM – 12 PM
    Ormond Beach Sports Complex, 700 Hull Rd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Sports skills development for youth and athletes.

    Event: 🎲Wednesday is BINGO Night at Kava Kula, 7 – 11 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach, FL
    Bingo fun with a relaxed kava vibe—prizes and laughs await!

    Event: 🛤️Site Plan Review Committee, 9 AM
    Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, Ormond Beach, FL
    Planning review meeting on developments along the scenic loop.

    Event: 🌿Gardening Florida Style, 10 AM – 12 PM
    Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave, Ormond Beach, FL
    Learn local gardening techniques suited for Florida's climate.

 Thu Jul 10

  • Event: 🍷Ladies Night Out Sip and Stroll, 4 – 8 PM
    Ormond Brewing Company, 301 Division Ave UNIT 15, Ormond Beach
    An evening of sipping, strolling, and socializing with friends.

  • Event: 🥕Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 8 AM – 1 PM
    Ormond Beach Farmer's Market, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Local produce, artisan goods, and community vibes.

  • Event: ❓Trivia Night at Kava Kula, 8 – 10 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach
    Test your trivia knowledge in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

  • Event: 🖼️Third Thursday Docent Tour, [no time listed]
    Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy an engaging guided tour of the current exhibits.

 Fri Jul 11

  • Event: 🎸Moose Lodge Ormond Beach, 6 – 9 PM
    Loyal Order of Moose, 601 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Live music and social gathering at the Moose Lodge.

  • Event: 🎶Summer Sounds FREE Concert Series: Black Velvet Duo, 6 PM
    The Casements, 25 Riverside Dr, Ormond Beach, FL
    Free outdoor concert featuring the Black Velvet Duo.

  • Event: 🌞Summer Sounds, Jul 11 – 25
    Rockefeller Gardens, 25 Riverside Dr, Ormond Beach, FL
    Ongoing summer concert series at Rockefeller Gardens.

  • Event: 👟Walk With A Purpose, 10 PM
    1450 Hand Ave, Ormond Beach, FL
    Community walk event promoting health and purpose.

  • Event: ☕Small Business Networking- Coffee Meet Up, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    New Journey Chiropractic, 292 N Nova Rd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Networking event for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

  • Event: ⚾Private Training: 1 Day, 10 AM – 12 PM
    Ormond Beach Sports Complex, 700 Hull Rd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Athletic training session for youth or adult participants.

  • Event: ☕Café Roberto, 6:30 – 9:00 AM
    beach + vine, 1458 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL
    Morning café meet-up with light fare and beverages.

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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