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March 2024 Blog Archive

Florida Coral Reef Restoration and Conservation Area Purchases
Florida Coral Reef Restoration and Conservation Area Purchases Fri, Mar 29, 2024 This month, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $9.5 million through Florida’s Coral Reef Restoration and Recovery Initiative to bolster academic and private partnerships to safeguard Florida’s Coral Reef, which extends more than 350 nauti... Read More

Ponce Inlet Traffic Advisory
Ponce Inlet Traffic Advisory Fri, Mar 29, 2024 A traffic advisory has been issued for Saturday, March 30 that includes temporary Boat Ramp and Boat Ramp Trailer Parking Closures. Heavier than normal traffic is expected for two events occurring in Ponce Inlet, so please take extra care while drivi... Read More

Guy Harvey to Headline Fifth Annual ONE DAYTONA Art Festival Weekend
Guy Harvey to Headline Fifth Annual ONE DAYTONA Art Festival Weekend Fri, Mar 29, 2024 Marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey will be headlining the fifth edition of the annual ONE DAYTONA Art Festival, scheduled for April 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The award-winning festival is a free event welcoming residents and visitors to experienc... Read More

DeBary Summer Camp Registration
DeBary Summer Camp Registration Fri, Mar 29, 2024 DeBary Parks and Recreation is once again hosting an exciting Summer Camp for kids entering grades kindergarten through 6th in Fall 2024. Registration is exclusively online and opens for DeBary residents on April 2 at 9 a.m. If it's your first time p... Read More

DeBary Splash Pad Now Open
DeBary Splash Pad Now Open Fri, Mar 29, 2024 Come and cool off at the Splash Pad in Community Park, DeBary! Open for the season until October 27, this aquatic haven provides refreshing fun for all ages. Closed on Mondays for maintenance, the Splash Pad offers a delightful escape on hot summer d... Read More

40-Year Police Volunteer Celebrates Her 100th Birthday
40-Year Police Volunteer Celebrates Her 100th Birthday Thu, Mar 28, 2024 The Port Orange Police Department is honoring one of their longest serving volunteers as she celebrates her 100th birthday. Mary Wittmeyer is considered a VIP (Volunteers in Police Service) by the department and has given 40+ years of what the Port O... Read More

Hands-On Learning at Beginner Beekeeping Workshop
Hands-On Learning at Beginner Beekeeping Workshop Wed, Mar 27, 2024 Aspiring beekeepers and enthusiasts can join a comprehensive beginner beekeeping workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 6. The class will be held at the Volusia County UF/IFAS Extension Office, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand, and lunch will be... Read More

Reptile Revelry at Ponce Inlet Historical Museum
Reptile Revelry at Ponce Inlet Historical Museum Wed, Mar 27, 2024 Reptile Revelry, a free Echo Ranger Event, will take place Saturday, April 13, at 10 a.m. at the Ponce Inlet Historical Museum on Beach Street. Come tour the museum, meet an ambassador animal visiting from the Lyonia Environmental Center in Deltona, ... Read More

Summer Nature Camp Registration Open April 1
Summer Nature Camp Registration Open April 1 Wed, Mar 27, 2024 The Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC) will open registration for its summer nature camp on April 1. The camp will be held Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., starting on June 3 and ending on Aug. 7, at the Lyonia Environmental Center, ... Read More

Pappas Drive In Go Fund Me Donations
Pappas Drive In Go Fund Me Donations Tue, Mar 26, 2024 When Pappas Drive In & Family Restaurant of New Smyrna Beach was destroyed on Monday, March 18 by fire it affected not just the owners, but all 35 employees who worked at the local landmark restaurant. The restaurant staff, manager Bobbi Hannan, ... Read More

Deltona Fire Rescue Honors Women in March
Deltona Fire Rescue Honors Women in March Tue, Mar 26, 2024 The Deltona Fire Rescue has been honoring the women who serve their community throughout the month of March. The following has been shared on their Facebook page. Read More

April Events at the Lyonia Environmental Center in Deltona
April Events at the Lyonia Environmental Center in Deltona Tue, Mar 26, 2024 This April, the Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC) in Deltona is excited to welcome nature enthusiasts of all ages to events of all kinds, including interactive workshops, guided walks, and more. The LEC offers exhibits focused on nature & conserv... Read More

Did You Know E-bikes Can Be a Fire Hazard?
Did You Know E-bikes Can Be a Fire Hazard? Tue, Mar 26, 2024 You see them everywhere you go - E-bikes, scooters, hoverboards, and other mobility devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. Electric-powered riding has become popular. If you own one, are you aware of the safety suggestions? Many people store and c... Read More

New Panther License Plate Available
New Panther License Plate Available Tue, Mar 26, 2024 The new Protect the Panther license plate is now available whether you are renewing your Florida plates or licensing your car in the state for the first time. Staff with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) worked with photogra... Read More

Disney's All New Ship Name and Theme Revealed
Disney's All New Ship Name and Theme Revealed Mon, Mar 25, 2024 Disney Cruise Line revealed the first details about its next ship, the Disney Destiny, as it reached a new construction milestone with a keel laying ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. With the good luck garnered by this marit... Read More

DeBary's Hometown Hero Nominations Now Open
DeBary's Hometown Hero Nominations Now Open Mon, Mar 25, 2024 The City of DeBary is now accepting applications to nominate DeBary 2024 Hometown Heroes. Selected Hometown Heroes will have a commemorative street-pole banner displayed with their likeness at City Hall. Application deadline is May 15 at 5 p.m. EDT.... Read More

DEP Earth Day Art Contest for 4th through 12th Grade Students
DEP Earth Day Art Contest for 4th through 12th Grade Students Mon, Mar 25, 2024 Earth Day will take place on April 22 this year, offering people across the world to chance to raise awareness of the need for continued protection of Earth’s natural resources. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) works eac... Read More

Dahlia Park Access Point Renovations to Start Sooner than Expected
Dahlia Park Access Point Renovations to Start Sooner than Expected Mon, Mar 25, 2024 Following progress by the demolition team at Kingfish Avenue and Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, the renovations to construct new ADA-compliant beach access structures at Dahlia Park in Daytona Beach Shores will begin earlier than planned. Dahlia Par... Read More

Spring into DeBary Hall for Programs and Events this April
Spring into DeBary Hall for Programs and Events this April Mon, Mar 25, 2024 DeBary Hall Historic Site offers something for everyone this month... Get Stepping with Line Dancing Lessons: 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, April 4 and 18. Line dancing is a great way to exercise your mind and body. Join DeBary Hall staff for a fun evening f... Read More

Jury Recommends Death for Guzman for 1991 First-Degree Murder
Jury Recommends Death for Guzman for 1991 First-Degree Murder Fri, Mar 22, 2024 After a week-long resentencing hearing concluded this morning in Daytona Beach, a Volusia County jury voted 12-0 in favor of the death penalty for James Guzman for the brutal murder and robbery of a Virginia businessman he chauffeured.  Guzman,... Read More

WestVolusiaConnection.com E-mail blast 03/22/24 Fri, Mar 22, 2024 Read this week's Top News Stories in West Volusia Read More

Shine the Light Autism Awareness Event
Shine the Light Autism Awareness Event Fri, Mar 22, 2024 Join the Easterseals at the scenic Riverfront Esplanade on the Intracoastal in Daytona Beach for a heartfelt celebration of World Autism Awareness Day on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This event promises a day filled with education, awareness, and ... Read More

West Volusia Housing Fair
West Volusia Housing Fair Fri, Mar 22, 2024 A Housing Fair will be offered April 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Center at Deltona. There will be home buying classes, credit checks, raffles, and activities for children. Read More

Turtle Day Festival at the Marine Science Center
Turtle Day Festival at the Marine Science Center Fri, Mar 22, 2024 Mark your calendars to celebrate Turtle Day, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 6, at the Marine Science Center, 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet. This event is a free, family-friendly festival where guests can enjoy close encounters w... Read More

Which Side of the Gun Purchase Argument Do You Support? Volusia Council Votes No Waiting Period
Which Side of the Gun Purchase Argument Do You Support? Volusia Council Votes No Waiting Period Fri, Mar 22, 2024 The Volusia County Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, March 19, to repeal an ordinance in the county that requires a background check and three-day waiting period to buy a gun from a private seller at a gun show. This law is currently in place and... Read More

Police In Full Force on Flagler
Police In Full Force on Flagler Thu, Mar 21, 2024 With two recent gun incidents disturbing the peaceful excitement that is Flagler Ave. in New Smyrna Beach, the police are ever-present no matter where you are beachside. An officer at his post in front of one of the restaurants was quick to say hello... Read More

It's Spring - Tips to Safely Co-exist with Florida's 1.3 Million Alligators
It's Spring - Tips to Safely Co-exist with Florida's 1.3 Million Alligators Thu, Mar 21, 2024 As the weather gets warmer across the Sunshine State, alligators are becoming more active and visible. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the American alligator is a conservation success story in Florida. Florid... Read More

April Eco-Adventures with Green Volusia
April Eco-Adventures with Green Volusia Thu, Mar 21, 2024 Walk and Weed at Stetson Aquatic with Green Volusia Volunteers: From 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3, at the Stetson Aquatic Center, 2636 Alhambra Ave., DeLand. Get your hands dirty by helping re-plant natives in the garden after recent fl... Read More

Explore Volusia's April Outdoor Adventures - Register Today
Explore Volusia's April Outdoor Adventures - Register Today Thu, Mar 21, 2024 Experience the great outdoors this April with Explore Volusia. Whether you're interested in eco-buggy tours, biking, or hiking, there's an activity for every nature lover! Registration is mandatory for all events listed, visit Green Volusia Eventbrit... Read More

Town Hall Meetings Aim to Enhance Volusia County Residents’ Hurricane Preparedness
Town Hall Meetings Aim to Enhance Volusia County Residents’ Hurricane Preparedness Thu, Mar 21, 2024 Volusia County is set to host a series of town hall-style meetings to bolster hurricane preparedness within the community. These sessions will provide residents with essential information and resources to effectively prepare for and respond to hurric... Read More

NASA Crew to Join Expedition 70
NASA Crew to Join Expedition 70 Wed, Mar 20, 2024 Three crew members will blast off on Thursday, March 21, to support Expedition 70 aboard the International Space Station. NASA will provide full coverage of launch and crew arrival at the microgravity laboratory. NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson, Rosco... Read More

"Shark Tank" Style District Pitch Competition
"Shark Tank" Style District Pitch Competition Wed, Mar 20, 2024 Volusia County high school students have the opportunity to learn the skills of entrepreneurship and idea generation and to have fun while doing it. The second annual “Shark Tank” style district-wide pitch competition took place at t... Read More

Libraries Offer Spring into Reading Challenge
Libraries Offer Spring into Reading Challenge Wed, Mar 20, 2024 Volusia County Public Library card holders are invited to participate in a virtual Spring into Reading six-week reading challenge beginning Sunday, April 7. Readers can log their days read into the library’s reading platform, Beanstack, to ear... Read More

Tassie's Underwater Twist Now Open at Aquatica
Tassie's Underwater Twist Now Open at Aquatica Wed, Mar 20, 2024 The new waterslide at Aquatica, Orlando is a digitally immersive experience of sight and sound. Get ready for a stunning new twist on waterslide thrills as you take the plunge into an incredible aquatic setting just below the surface of the ocean, wh... Read More

DeLand Seeks Input from Residents on the Future of the City - Open House Tonight
DeLand Seeks Input from Residents on the Future of the City - Open House Tonight Wed, Mar 20, 2024 As DeLand continues to see growth, the city is seeking input from residents on how they want DeLand to look in the future.  The city announced the launch of “Distinctively DeLand,” an update to the city’s 2050 Vision Plan and ... Read More

Pictures of Today's Turtle Release in Ponce Inlet
Pictures of Today's Turtle Release in Ponce Inlet Tue, Mar 19, 2024 Volusia County’s Marine Science Center successfully rehabilitated and released four green sea turtles back into the ocean today, March 19, while the gathered crowd cheered at the Beach Street Ponce Inlet beach approach. The four juvenile green ... Read More

Orange City Elementary School Groundbreaking
Orange City Elementary School Groundbreaking Tue, Mar 19, 2024 Volusia County Schools held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Orange City Elementary School on Monday, March 18, marking a new era for a school with a rich history in Orange City. “The true legacy of our success will not lie in the bricks ... Read More

Nesting Season Has Begun
Nesting Season Has Begun Tue, Mar 19, 2024 Did you know that turtle nesting season has started? According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, nesting season is also underway for shorebirds, seabirds, and wading birds. From March to November, female sea turtles will return to our bea... Read More

College Basketball Invitational Returns to Ocean Center
College Basketball Invitational Returns to Ocean Center Tue, Mar 19, 2024 The teams have been announced for the 2024 Ro College Basketball Invitational, which will be held March 23-27 at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach. This single-elimination, fully-bracketed men’s basketball postseason tournament will feature 16 ... Read More

The Hatters and Gators Head Into March Madness - Get Your Bracket Here
The Hatters and Gators Head Into March Madness - Get Your Bracket Here Tue, Mar 19, 2024 The Stetson Hatters and the Florida Gators are headed to Indianapolis for their shot at the Big Dance at the NCAA Tournament. The Gators, in their 22nd appearance at the tournament, earned a No. 7 seed and will play the winner of the First Four matc... Read More

Marine Science Center Set to Release Four Green Sea Turtles Today
Marine Science Center Set to Release Four Green Sea Turtles Today Tue, Mar 19, 2024 Volusia County’s Marine Science Center plans to celebrate the successful rehabilitation of four green sea turtles with a public release at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, at the Beach Street Ponce Inlet beach approach. Watch as the four juvenile gre... Read More

Pappas Drive In Fire
Pappas Drive In Fire Mon, Mar 18, 2024 Pappas Drive In, the New Smyrna Beach staple, has suffered a devastating fire. Firefighters were at the scene soon after midnight, as smoke rose from the building's roof, and continued to fight the blaze long into the morning hours. Pappas has been l... Read More

Temporary Closure of Beach Access Points in March and April
Temporary Closure of Beach Access Points in March and April Mon, Mar 18, 2024 Volusia County will temporarily close beach access points at Kingfish Avenue and the central area of Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park beginning Monday, March 18, for renovations. These improvements are part of an initiative to construct new ADA-complia... Read More

Firefly Nights Have Officially Started at Blue Spring State Park
Firefly Nights Have Officially Started at Blue Spring State Park Sat, Mar 16, 2024 Firefly Nights at Blue Spring State Park have started. Each night for the next three weeks, Firefly pros will offer Fireside Chats at 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. behind the Thursby House at the park. They will offer Firefly Nights T-shirts in three colors, ... Read More

WestVolusiaConnection.com E-mail blast 03/15/24 Fri, Mar 15, 2024 Read this week's Top News Stories in West Volusia Read More

Hi-Five Social Media Post of the Week
Hi-Five Social Media Post of the Week Fri, Mar 15, 2024 Today, Friday, March 15, Dr. Carmen Balgobin, Superintendent Volusia County Schools surprised Lindy Feeser, a Port Orange Elementary School academic intervention teacher, with the Great People Great Deeds Instructional Staff Member award! M... Read More

Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center Closed Until Further Notice
Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center Closed Until Further Notice Fri, Mar 15, 2024 On Saturday, March 9th, a small fire broke out at the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center. Due to the damage, the Performing Arts Center will remain closed in the coming months as repairs are assessed and products necessary to complete restoration ar... Read More

Blue Lake Avenue Extension in DeLand Celebrated
Blue Lake Avenue Extension in DeLand Celebrated Fri, Mar 15, 2024 DeLand officials gathered to celebrate the recent opening of the Blue Lake Avenue Extension. The ribbon cutting ceremony highlighted the collaborative effort toward enhancing the area's infrastructure, with residents now having a safer and more effic... Read More

FTC Warns of Spring Break Travel Scams
FTC Warns of Spring Break Travel Scams Fri, Mar 15, 2024 The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning spring breakers about vacation scams ahead of the hugely popular travel season. The consumer alert, issued this week, cautioned travelers against getting bamboozled by a deal that may be just too good to... Read More

Disney Cruise Line Announces Summer 2025 Itineraries
Disney Cruise Line Announces Summer 2025 Itineraries Fri, Mar 15, 2024 Set your sights on an unforgettable Disney adventure at sea and explore the magnificent cultural richness of Europe, the stunning wilderness of Alaska, or the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean. Summer 2025 is also your chance to be among the first ... Read More

Tribute Bands Return to Bandshell for Friday Night Concerts - VIP Tickets On Sale Today
Tribute Bands Return to Bandshell for Friday Night Concerts - VIP Tickets On Sale Today Fri, Mar 15, 2024 Friday night concerts return to the Daytona Beach Oceanfront Bandshell at 7:15 p.m. Friday, May 31 with the Caribbean Chillers: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett. Produced by the city of Daytona Beach’s Arts & Entertainment division, the Sounds o... Read More

A Celebration of Cuban Culture at MOAS
A Celebration of Cuban Culture at MOAS Thu, Mar 14, 2024 The Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS) is celebrating the reopening of the Cuban Gallery on Saturday, March 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with artwork, music, food, and community, and on March 17 with an event, Cuban Coffee with a Curator. MOAS con... Read More

DeLand Hosting Clean Up Day for Residents
DeLand Hosting Clean Up Day for Residents Thu, Mar 14, 2024 The City of DeLand is hosting a community clean-up day on Saturday, March 30. Services will include a special opportunity for residents to shred unwanted documents, pick up free mulch, and throw away large items in one spot.  SHREDDING The shr... Read More

Disney Offers $59 Tickets to Florida Residents
Disney Offers $59 Tickets to Florida Residents Thu, Mar 14, 2024 Discover Disney tickets, a special rate available to Florida residents, allows the purchase of a 4-day ticket for $59 per day plus tax, or $235 plus tax to be used on consecutive or non-consecutive days. A specially priced 3-day ticket is also availa... Read More

Get Ready for Great Discounts and Deals for National Pi Day
Get Ready for Great Discounts and Deals for National Pi Day Thu, Mar 14, 2024 Happy National Pi Day! March 14 is a time to celebrate the number, known as π, that represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Pi is also the first letter of the Greek word "perimetros," which loosely translates to circumfer... Read More

Our Top Staycation Spring Break Ideas You and the Family will Love
Our Top Staycation Spring Break Ideas You and the Family will Love Wed, Mar 13, 2024 Spring Break in Florida is a time to remember why everyone loves to visit our beautiful area. We all deserve to kick-back and relax or venture out for some fun, so below are some ultra local events and activities, as well as day-trip suggestions, for... Read More

Brightline Announces Two More Stations on the Coast, Will Volusia County Be Next?
Brightline Announces Two More Stations on the Coast, Will Volusia County Be Next? Wed, Mar 13, 2024 By Cathy Padilla Both the Treasure Coast and Space Coast will be adding Brightline train stations, which begs the question does Volusia County have a station in its future? Brightline has selected Cocoa in Brevard County and Stuart in Martin County ... Read More

LEGO Ferrari Build & Race Experience at LEGOLAND
LEGO Ferrari Build & Race Experience at LEGOLAND Wed, Mar 13, 2024 Rev up your engines and prepare to experience the build of a lifetime at the new LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race Experience at LEGOLAND Florida in Orlando. Be among the first to witness the incredible life-size, 2-ton, LEGO Ferrari 296 GTS as it r... Read More

Registration Open for the 28th Annual St. Johns River Cleanup
Registration Open for the 28th Annual St. Johns River Cleanup Wed, Mar 13, 2024 Calling all community members! Join the 28th annual St. Johns River Cleanup from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 20. Planners hope to clean 59 miles of the waterway and river basin with the help of boaters and other volunteers. Scout troops, sch... Read More

Possible Back-to-back Rate Decreases from FPL
Possible Back-to-back Rate Decreases from FPL Wed, Mar 13, 2024 Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) customers could see back-to-back rate decreases after the company today asked state regulators to approve a reduction beginning in May to reflect lower fuel prices. Rates are already scheduled to decrease in Ap... Read More

Transform386 Offers Onsite Help for Hurricane Ian Recovery Applications Throughout March
Transform386 Offers Onsite Help for Hurricane Ian Recovery Applications Throughout March Tue, Mar 12, 2024 Volusia County's Transform386 staff will conduct numerous community outreach activities throughout March to assist residents in applying for the Hurricane Ian Homeowner Recovery Program. These efforts aim to help individuals apply for aid and allow t... Read More

SpaceX Crew-7 Return to Earth
SpaceX Crew-7 Return to Earth Tue, Mar 12, 2024 NASA’s SpaceX Crew-7 completed the agency’s seventh  commercial crew rotation mission to the International Space Station on Tuesday, March 12, after splashing down safely in a Dragon spacecraft off the coast of Pensacola, Florida. The int... Read More

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Edith I. Starke Elementary School in DeLand
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Edith I. Starke Elementary School in DeLand Tue, Mar 12, 2024 Volusia County Schools held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Edith I. Starke Elementary School, marking a new era of a school with a rich history in DeLand. “Several years ago, this community made a commitment, and you’re here today... Read More

Stetson Hatters Earn Spot in NCAA Tournament
Stetson Hatters Earn Spot in NCAA Tournament Mon, Mar 11, 2024 For the first time in program history, the Stetson University men's basketball team has earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament at the Division One level. The team's win against Austin Peay on Sunday night at the ASUN Championship clinched both the titl... Read More

Deltona's Dewey O. Boster Park to Close for Two Days
Deltona's Dewey O. Boster Park to Close for Two Days Mon, Mar 11, 2024 The playground at Dewey O. Boster will be closed for two days starting Wednesday, March 13, to repair the ground surface. There are playgrounds to enjoy at several other City parks, including nearby Wes Crile and Campbell parks. Read More

VoRide Expands to Three New Cities Following Success in DeLand
VoRide Expands to Three New Cities Following Success in DeLand Mon, Mar 11, 2024 Following a successful launch in DeLand, VoRide, the new curb-to-curb rideshare initiative from Volusia County, is set to expand its services to DeBary, Deltona, and Orange City starting Monday, April 8. Since launching in DeLand in December, VoRide ... Read More

Volunteers Needed for Manatee Watch Program
Volunteers Needed for Manatee Watch Program Mon, Mar 11, 2024 Volusia County is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to participate in Manatee Watch, a program that identifies the presence of manatees in local waterways. Residents who live on the water, spend a lot of time near the water, or are avid boaters are... Read More

Mr. Dunderbak’s Opening First Satellite Location at Dunes Brewing this Summer
Mr. Dunderbak’s Opening First Satellite Location at Dunes Brewing this Summer Mon, Mar 11, 2024 Dunes Brewing is partnering with a local favorite that has been a fixture in the community for almost 50 years. Mr. Dunderbak’s, currently located in the Volusia Mall, is expanding for the first time with a satellite location at Dunes Brewing i... Read More

Sleep Change Got You Tired? Maybe We Can Help...
Sleep Change Got You Tired? Maybe We Can Help... Mon, Mar 11, 2024 According to the Sleep Foundation, "springing ahead" can play havoc with our bodies. One study found a 24% increase in heart attacks on the Monday after daylight saving time. Another found the risk of stroke is 8 percent higher on the two days follow... Read More

WestVolusiaConnection.com E-mail blast 03/08/24 Fri, Mar 08, 2024 Read this week's Top News Stories in West Volusia Read More

Don't Forget!
Don't Forget! Fri, Mar 08, 2024 This is the weekend to spring ahead! Readers are reminded to set their clocks forward one hour before bed on Saturday, March 9. This annual adjustment not only heralds longer days and shorter nights but also serves as a perfect moment to check and re... Read More

New Veterans Clinic in Daytona to Open in May
New Veterans Clinic in Daytona to Open in May Fri, Mar 08, 2024 The new Veterans Affairs (VA) multi-specialty clinic is expected to open on Williamson Boulevard in Daytona Beach in May. Under construction since late 2021, the $60 million project will be double the size of the existing William V. Chappell VA clini... Read More

Daylight Saving Time Watering Schedule Change Begins March 10
Daylight Saving Time Watering Schedule Change Begins March 10 Fri, Mar 08, 2024 Daylight Saving Time not only brings longer days and warmer weather, but also changes to Volusia County's watering schedule. As part of the ongoing commitment to responsible water use and conservation, Volusia County is implementing watering schedule... Read More

Winn-Dixie Sold to ALDI
Winn-Dixie Sold to ALDI Fri, Mar 08, 2024 German discount grocer ALDI recently acquired Jacksonville-based Southeastern Grocers and its Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets throughout the Southeast, 12 of which are located in Volusia and Flagler counties. According to a press release issued b... Read More

Carnival Sets New Goal for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital ® Donation
Carnival Sets New Goal for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital ® Donation Thu, Mar 07, 2024 Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy announced that after meeting its 2024 goal of $33 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, the company has set a new pledge goal of $50 million by 2030. Duffy made the announcement a... Read More

Discover Florida Escapes with New App
Discover Florida Escapes with New App Thu, Mar 07, 2024 With more than 6 million acres of state-managed conservation lands, options for experiencing wild Florida can be difficult to narrow down. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced a new WMA Recreation Finder, an interacti... Read More

National Slam the Scam Day
National Slam the Scam Day Thu, Mar 07, 2024 The Inspector General for the Social Security Administration (SSA) has designated March 7 as National Slam the Scam Day—an outreach campaign to raise public awareness of Social Security scams and other government imposter scams. This is part of... Read More

Daytona Tortugas Set to Begin New Season that Includes Major Enhancements
Daytona Tortugas Set to Begin New Season that Includes Major Enhancements Thu, Mar 07, 2024 The Daytona Tortugas are gearing up for their 2024 season with important upgrades and agreements in place or on the horizon. The Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds is set to begin play on April 5 on the road against the St... Read More

Shuck & Share Celebrates Million-Pound Milestone
Shuck & Share Celebrates Million-Pound Milestone Thu, Mar 07, 2024 When you order oysters this weekend at one of our local restaurants, be happy to know those shells may be working to produce more oysters. The Marine Discovery Center’s (MDC) Shuck & Share oyster recycling program has reached the million-po... Read More

Preserving Our History – the Port Orange Depot
Preserving Our History – the Port Orange Depot Wed, Mar 06, 2024 By Cathy Padilla Built 130 years ago and located in Depot Park, the oldest surviving Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) Station is tucked away on Herbert Street in Port Orange. On March 16 and 17, three local companies are donating their services to p... Read More

Two New Elementary Schools Coming to Volusia
Two New Elementary Schools Coming to Volusia Wed, Mar 06, 2024 Volusia County Schools will hold groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Edith I. Starke Elementary School and the new Orange City Elementary School on March 8 and March 18, respectively. Edith l. Starke Elementary School, DeLand - Groundbreaking Cere... Read More

Volusia Forever Committee to Meet on March 8
Volusia Forever Committee to Meet on March 8 Wed, Mar 06, 2024 If you have an interest in learning more about the Volusia Forever initiative, the Volusia Forever Advisory Committee will meet at 9 a.m. Friday, March 8, in the county council chambers at the Thomas C. Kelly Administration Center, 123 W. Indiana Ave... Read More

Providence Blvd. Lane Closure in Deltona
Providence Blvd. Lane Closure in Deltona Wed, Mar 06, 2024 To accommodate milling and resurfacing, PROVIDENCE BLVD., FROM SAXON BLVD. TO HOWLAND BLVD. will have a lane closure this week from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. A well signed lane closure/flagging operation will be in place. If additional information is needed,... Read More

NASA Opens Astronaut Applications as Newest Class Graduates
NASA Opens Astronaut Applications as Newest Class Graduates Wed, Mar 06, 2024 Ever dream of becoming an astronaut? Now may be your chance. NASA welcomed its newest class of next generation Artemis astronauts in a ceremony at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, making the 10 astronaut graduates eligible for flig... Read More

World Language Students Celebrate at Festival
World Language Students Celebrate at Festival Wed, Mar 06, 2024 The 2024 Volusia County World Languages Festival took place on Saturday, March 2, at Seabreeze High School in Daytona Beach. Volusia County world language students showcased their linguistic skills and cultural knowledge by participating in poetry a... Read More

Around the World in 180 Days
Around the World in 180 Days Tue, Mar 05, 2024 If you've dreamed of seeing the world, you will soon be able to set sail on an epic 180-day world journey across six continents visiting 43 countries, 101 ports and 81 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Opening up the world to a new era of global explorati... Read More

Penguin Trek to Open at SeaWorld
Penguin Trek to Open at SeaWorld Tue, Mar 05, 2024 SeaWorld is adding another roller coaster to its long list of thrilling rides. This spring, Penguin Trek will debut with an icy theme of exploration as riders are taken on a research mission in Antarctica. Riders will board their snowmobile and race ... Read More

DreamWorks Land, Opening This Summer at Universal
DreamWorks Land, Opening This Summer at Universal Tue, Mar 05, 2024 This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut DreamWorks Land – a vibrant new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park... Read More

Deltona Housing Equity Plan
Deltona Housing Equity Plan Tue, Mar 05, 2024 The City of Deltona has prepared a Housing Equity Plan which examines barriers to fair housing and identifies priorities and goals to solve housing issues. The City is encouraging residents, housing and homeless partners, public service providers and... Read More

Cypress Head Golf Club Ranked Top 20
Cypress Head Golf Club Ranked Top 20 Tue, Mar 05, 2024 Port Orange's Cypress Head Golf Club has earned a prestigious honor by being ranked among Florida's best public golf courses. Recently, GolfPass.com released its coveted list of the top 25 public golf courses in Florida for 2024, and Cypress Head sec... Read More

Explore Volusia’s Nature Adventures: March Outdoor Activities
Explore Volusia’s Nature Adventures: March Outdoor Activities Mon, Mar 04, 2024 Embark on an outdoor adventure with Explore Volusia. This month, Explore Volusia has a full slate of activities for locals and visitors to enjoy from eco-buggy tours to biking and hiking, there is something for everyone! Registration is required for ... Read More

2024 Flood Awareness Week
2024 Flood Awareness Week Mon, Mar 04, 2024 Starting today, Volusia County, in collaboration with the Florida Floodplain Managers Association, the State of Florida, and other local governments, will actively participate in the 2024 Flood Awareness Week, taking place March 4-10. This week-long ... Read More

April 10 Job Fair - Manufacturing and Technology
April 10 Job Fair - Manufacturing and Technology Mon, Mar 04, 2024 Are you passionate about innovation and eager to help build the future? Set April 10 aside to possibly find your next great step in your career. Connect with leading companies and discover diverse career opportunities when the City of New Smyrna Bea... Read More

Votran Alters Select Routes for Bike Week
Votran Alters Select Routes for Bike Week Mon, Mar 04, 2024 Due to congestion surrounding Bike Week, some Votran routes are adjusted through Sunday, March 10. Due to the influx of traffic, passengers may experience delays and service disruptions, with the possibility of further route adjustments based on evol... Read More

Total Solar Eclipse April 8
Total Solar Eclipse April 8 Mon, Mar 04, 2024 On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, giving people in 15 states the opportunity to see the Moon completely block the Sun, revealing our star’s relatively faint corona. “This year’s total solar eclipse... Read More

Sons of Speed Gives Students First-Hand Learning Experience
Sons of Speed Gives Students First-Hand Learning Experience Fri, Mar 01, 2024 By Cathy Padilla The New Smyrna Speedway was humming with excitement on the eve of the Sons of Speed race taking place Saturday, March 2, as 50 students enrolled in Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses in Volusia County were invited to joi... Read More

The Foremost Authority on Hamburgers Shares His Secrets and the Oklahoma Fried-Onion Burger
The Foremost Authority on Hamburgers Shares His Secrets and the Oklahoma Fried-Onion Burger Fri, Mar 01, 2024 By Cathy Padilla Dubbed the "foremost authority on hamburgers" by the New York Times, George Motz is a man who knows how to cook a burger. On Thursday, February 29, he celebrated Leap Day at Dunes Brewing in Port Orange, a coastal brewery built on t... Read More

Safely Navigate Bike Week with Tips from Volusia County EMS
Safely Navigate Bike Week with Tips from Volusia County EMS Fri, Mar 01, 2024 As excitement mounts for the 2024 Bike Week, kicking off today, March 1, Volusia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is working to ensure the event is both enjoyable and safe for everyone. The event is expected to bring a surge of motorcyclists a... Read More