Academic Oasis—Empowering the Future, One Child at a Time
At Academic Oasis, we nurture curious minds and kind hearts. Through personalized teaching and hands-on learning, we empower every child to grow with confidence and resilience. Discover an inclusive environment where strengths are celebrated, challenges spark growth, and every student thrives at their own pace.
Start Their Success Journey Today! Scan the Code! academicoasis.net | 386-256-7430 | Bacademicoasis.net | 1089 W
Live Inspired, Live Local
This month’s theme, “Love Local,” perfectly embod ies why I started Daytona City Lifestyle. When I first moved to Daytona, I faced the challenge of finding local businesses that provided the products and services I needed. That experience sparked my passion for connecting people with the amazing businesses and entrepreneurs that make our community unique.
Daytona is where we’ve all chosen to live, and supporting our local businesses is one of the most impactful ways we can invest in our community. It’s easy to shop online, but every dollar spent elsewhere is a dollar leaving our local economy. By choosing local, we not only keep our economy thriving but also create jobs for our neighbors. As these jobs grow, so do wages, helping to address larger social challenges like homelessness, hunger, and mental health.
As you’ve likely noticed in past issues, I’m a strong advocate for supporting local charities. The more we invest in our local businesses, the fewer people will rely on those charities, making every donation reach further and achieve more.
Daytona is home to a remarkable number of entrepreneurs and small businesses— more than you’d expect in a community of this size. These businesses are run by passionate individuals who rely on local support to succeed. They’re our neighbors, pouring their expertise and energy into their work, often collaborating with other local businesses. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on them.
In this issue, you’ll find inspiring stories about some of Daytona’s standout entrepreneurs. Our cover story features Andy Clark from All Aboard Storage, whose passion for our community knows no bounds. We also profile Nathalia Smith, founder of Pixie Dust Accounting, whose mission is to empower small businesses and give back to Daytona. And we introduce you to Russ Thomas and RST Coaching, a seasoned executive and business coach who uses the Cardone methodology to drive local businesses toward greater success. Finally, we would like to introduce you to Sunrise Bank, a local bank that provides exceptional service.
As always, I encourage you to consider our advertisers when you need a product or service. Supporting them means supporting the broader network of businesses that help Daytona thrive.
Thank you for letting us be part of the life you’re building—whatever that journey looks like. Our hope is that these stories inspire you to love Daytona just a little more every day.
See you around town!
THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY , PUBLISHER @DAYTONACITYLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Thomas John (TJ) Filley | tj.filley@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Oksana Zingman Filley oksana.filley@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tiffany Joubert | tiffany.joubert@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Melissa Frankel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Christophe Hanckowiak
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
1: Nancy Cortez, Becky Parker and Sarah Wardick at the Ormond Chamber After Hours Event 2: LaTonya Daniel cuts the ribbon with the Daytona Chamber at the new American Red Cross 3: Gina Elmazi and Samantha Tribble get their workout on at Coastal Pilates 4: Locals gathered to show some love to No Longer Fatherless at their Annual Gala 5: Will Sanchez checks out some E-Bikes at Magnum Electric Bike's ribbon cutting. 6: Rotarian Piros Pazaurek attends the Hungarian American Coalition Event in Washington D.C. 7: J.J. Royer and her doggie Dexter enjoy a brisk walk.
Dog Beach Inc Executive Director Nanette McKeel Petrella and Bert get their Motown on! 9: Daryl & Suzie Wolfe, Lisa & Paul Bradley, and Lee and Bobby Thickpen 10: Models pose at MOAS after the Living Colors Fashion Show
Pearls Fur Ball dazzled
Johan Joubert
business monthly
Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors: Nancy Cortez
Nancy Cortez of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors is a dedicated real estate professional serving the Daytona Beach area. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the local market, Nancy is committed to helping clients find their perfect home or investment property. Her personalized approach, exceptional customer service, and strong negotiation skills make her a trusted choice for buyers and sellers alike. Nancy’s passion for real estate shines through in every transaction.
FAMILY, BUSINESS, and Legacy
ANDY CLARK’S STORY OF BEING ROOTED IN DAYTONA, AND SOARING TO GREATNESS
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
ROOTS IN DAYTONA: A LOCAL BEGINNING
Andy Clark’s journey is deeply intertwined with the Daytona Beach area, where he grew up surrounded by the small-town charm and vibrant community that shaped his values and aspirations. A graduate of Spruce Creek High School as well as Daytona State, Andy built lifelong connections to his hometown, which he continues to honor through initiatives like the scholarship endowment he founded for Daytona State raising over $60,000 to support local students.
“I love the small-town charm of Daytona,” Andy shares. “It’s great to travel, but even better to come home.” This enduring affection for his community is at the heart of everything he does, from his family business to his philanthropic efforts.
Andy's joy comes across
All Aboard Storage is a safe and secure option for all your storage needs
A BOND WITH DAD: LESSONS AND LEGACY
Douglas Clark, or “Doug” as he was known, was more than just a father to Andy; he was a mentor, visionary, and community leader. He served as Vice President of the Daytona Beach Homebuilder’s Association in 1964 and was a member of the first Planning Commission for the City of Port Orange in 1968, helping guide the city’s growth during its early days as a small town of just 3,000 residents.
In 1965, Doug co-founded MPC Builders, which developed mobile home parks pivotal in shaping the Port Orange landscape. His work ethic and dedication to building a better community inspired Andy and his siblings, who spent their youth learning from their father’s example.
TRAGEDY AND RESILIENCE: THE PLANE CRASH
On Memorial Day in 2009, Andy and his father were flying in Doug’s older, cherished plane when a faulty guage system caused the aircraft to run out of gas mid-flight. The plane crashed, tragically killing Doug on impact and leaving Andy trapped in the wreckage. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to cut Andy free, saving his life but leaving him with profound physical and emotional scars.
The loss was a devastating blow, but it strengthened Andy’s resolve to honor his father’s legacy by growing their family business and giving back to the community.
A LEGACY OF LOCAL IMPACT: TIES TO HALIFAX HOSPITAL
Andy’s recovery was made possible by the care he received at Halifax Hospital, an experience that deepened his appreciation for the hospital and the Daytona community. To honor his father’s memory and express his gratitude, Andy and his wife Molly pledged a $400,000 endowment to Halifax Hospital, focusing on its Arts in Medicine program.
“Halifax showed me the best of local love when I needed it most,” Andy shares. “This endowment is my way of giving back, ensuring that the healing power of art and medicine reaches others in need.”
BUILDING ALL ABOARD STORAGE: FROM THE GROUND UP
The Clark family opened their first All Aboard Storage location in 1983, a continuation of All Aboard Properties. Over the decades, the company has grown to include 30 storage facilities across Daytona Beach and Port Orange, offering innovative
Andy and his daughter Emma continue to build the empire
Andy has a work hard play hard mentality. He treats his staff and clients like family, especially when it comes to a laugh!
Andy's favorite down time activity
and accessible storage solutions while maintaining a commitment to the community.
THE NEXT GENERATION: A DAUGHTER’S ROLE IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS
Today, All Aboard Storage is thriving under the leadership of Andy’s daughter, Emma, who serves as Capital Chief Operating Officer. As the third generation to lead the family business.
Andy’s wife, Molly, and their beloved dog, Pencil, complete the close-knit family. When Andy isn’t working, he enjoys yoga at Renew Yoga and quiet evenings watching Netflix with Molly.
LOOKING AHEAD: BUILDING THE FUTURE OF DAYTONA
With his daughter leading the next chapter, Andy remains committed to the values that have guided his journey: community, resilience, and a vision for the future. Through his work, philanthropy, and dedication to his hometown, Andy Clark ensures that his family’s legacy will continue to inspire Daytona for generations to come.
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT: SUPPORTING LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS
Andy’s commitment to local growth extends beyond his business. As an active supporter of the Daytona Beach community, Andy has found a way to
“I love the small-town charm of Daytona,” Andy shares.
“It’s great to travel, but even better to come home.”
give back to the entrepreneurial spirit that has always fueled his family’s success. He is a proud advocate for 1 Million Cups, a nationwide initiative designed to help entrepreneurs connect with their communities, share ideas, and receive the support they need to succeed. Andy’s contributions to this program have been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for the area’s small businesses.
Andy Clark’s story is one of resilience, giving, and growth. From the humble beginnings of All Aboard Storage to his philanthropic efforts with Halifax Hospital and his support of local entrepreneurs, by honoring the past and looking toward the future, Andy ensures that the spirit of Daytona will thrive for generations to come.
ANDY CLARK
Andy Clark, a Daytona Beach native and founder of All Aboard Storage, has built a legacy rooted in hard work, community, and family. From his humble beginnings in Port Orange, graduating from Spruce Creek High, he’s grown the business to 30 locations while honoring his father’s memory through a $400,000 endowment to Halifax Hospital’s Arts in Medicine program. Committed to Daytona’s future, Andy’s daughter now leads the business into the next generation.
Andy is the type of guy you can just sit and have a conversation with for hours!
BECAUSE.
CHOCOLATE.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served "dinner" early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!
The Spiked Jones
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole coffee beans
• 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped
• 2 tablespoons Kahlua
• 1 teaspoon confectioner's sugar
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.
BANKING ON COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY MELISSA FRANKEL
Community banks are more than financial institutions—they’re a cornerstone of personal connections and community well-being. One local bank exemplifies this commitment, fostering relationships and accessibility that set it apart from larger competitors.
The bank’s team prioritizes understanding each customer’s unique financial needs. Whether identifying the right loan or intervening to prevent fraud, the staff acts as trusted allies.
Janet Marks, Vice President of the Ormond Beach branch, highlights this dedication: “Many of us have
our cell phone numbers on business cards because it’s important. If there’s an emergency, they know they can reach their banker.” This personalized approach ensures customers feel supported at any time.
Marks recalls a moment that underscores the team’s vigilance: “One of our clients was ready to give away $4,500, thinking they’d missed a court date. I stopped them and said, ‘You’re not doing anything like that. Go across the street to the police station.’ We’ve saved many customers from losing what they’ve worked so hard for.”
In Ormond Beach, the bank plays a vital role in community growth and connection. Marks explains, “We’re a part of the fabric here. Whether it’s partnering with local organizations or just being there for our customers, we make it a point to be involved in what matters to Ormond Beach.”
Even the small gestures make a difference. “We actually have an ice cream cooler here,” Marks shares. “We offer ice creams, sodas, and snacks to our customers. It’s just another way we go above and beyond. We want people to come in with a smile and leave with a smile.”
Through integrity, accessibility, and local engagement, this community bank shows the profound impact of neighborly banking, making Ormond Beach a better place for all.
Sunrise Banks
• This local bank embodies the spirit of community in Ormond Beach, delivering more than just financial services. Known for its personalized approach, the team goes beyond transactions to build meaningful relationships with customers that leads to a higher level of trust.
• “We’re not just bankers—we’re part of the community,” says Janet Marks, Vice President of the Ormond Beach branch.
• The bank partners with local organizations, supports charitable initiatives, and prioritizes financial literacy through programs for all ages. Customers enjoy exceptional service, from tailored financial advice to simple gestures like complimentary snacks and ice cream.
• Whether preventing fraud, helping customers navigate loans, or supporting local businesses, this bank is a cornerstone of care and connection in Ormond Beach.
Sunrise Banks Commitment to Ormond
V.P Ormond Sunshine Bank Janet Marks and Jim Hester EVP, Volusia County Market Leader
Janet Marks
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
INDOOR PLANT GUIDE
Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits
Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home. “There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.
ANTHURIUM:
Anthurium has gorgeous, colorful flowers and is the easiest indoor flowering plant to care for. It comes in a variety of colors including red, white, orange and purple. Anthurium likes to be dry, so let it go bone dry before watering. Fertilize every so often, especially when blooming. These plants do not like direct sunlight and can be repotted every three to five years.
HOPE PEPEROMIA:
This cascading plant is gaining popularity due to its succulent-like leaves and also because it is fairly easy to care for. The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.
“Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.”
This is a slow-growing variety that is architectural and compact. This plant is a great statement piece and looks great in an entryway or by a chair. There are a lot of varieties and colors of the Dracaena. They are very resilient in low light and are great for an office space with little or no light. They like to stay on the dry side, so they like to be watered when they are about ½ to ¾ of the way dry. When watering, give it a good soak. Pro tip: A moisture meter can be purchased and used to determine how dry your plant is to help determine when it is time to water again.
DRACAENA JANET-CRAIG COMPACTA:
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
BALANCING THE BOOKS with Soul
A LITTLE MAGIC FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES
In the sunny, entrepreneurial haven of Daytona Beach, Nathalia Smith is casting spells of success with her numbers, not magic wands. As the founder of Pixie Dust Accounting, Nathalia brings a whimsical touch to the world of accounting, blending creativity, innovation, and a true love for her community. With over 25 years of experience in corporate accounting, Nathalia helps businesses—big and small—find financial clarity through personalized services like bookkeeping, budgeting, and forecasting.
Since moving to Daytona Beach in 2022, Nathalia has embraced the town’s vibrant spirit, working with local startups and small businesses to help them grow and flourish. She’s a firm believer that each business has its own unique personality, and she tailors her services to match. Her clients appreciate her down-to-earth approach, where open communication and hands-on support make all the difference.
A finalist for Best of the Best Daytona Beach 2024, Nathalia’s mission is to make accounting approachable and even a little fun. Her passion for helping entrepreneurs succeed shines through in every number she touches.
Nathalia’s mission is to make accounting approachable and even a little fun. Her passion for helping entrepreneurs succeed shines through in every number...
Nathalia adds some "Pixie Dust" to her work!
www.caseywilliams.live @cognititvecasey
FUELING
DAYTONA’S FUTURE
Empowering Local Businesses to Thrive with Heart
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
Russ Thomas works out of Workspace Collective
1. BUILDING COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS SUCCESS WITH HEART-CENTERED COACHING
Daytona Beach is more than a destination—it’s a community powered by love, resilience, and local pride. At its core are small businesses, each one a thread in the city’s vibrant tapestry. For Russ Thomas, these businesses represent more than commerce; they embody the heart of the community. Using the heart-centered principles of Cardone Coaching, Russ helps entrepreneurs create thriving businesses and meaningful connections that uplift workplaces and strengthen Daytona’s spirit.
2. LEADING WITH HEART: A NEW APPROACH TO BUSINESS COACHING
At the heart of Russ’s mission is a belief that success starts with love and connection. Through the empathetic principles of Cardone Coaching, he empowers business owners to focus on what matters most—people.
“When you lead with heart, you inspire trust, loyalty, and community,” Russ says. “Business isn’t just about making sales; it’s about building relationships that create lasting impact.”
Cardone Coaching emphasizes compassion and connection as the foundation for growth. It encourages businesses to foster supportive cultures, treat customers as partners, and align values with actions. By doing so, entrepreneurs achieve success that extends far beyond profits.
Cardone Coaching leads with principals of relationships first
Russ leads seminars based on Cardone Coaching techniques
3. CONNECTING COMMUNITY: THE POWER OF EMPATHY
What makes Daytona unique is its deeply rooted sense of community. Russ helps local entrepreneurs cultivate authentic relationships with their customers, employees, and stakeholders.
“When you connect with your customers on a human level, you create a ripple effect,” Russ explains. “It’s about trust, shared values, and belonging.”
From family-run cafes to innovative startups, businesses coached by Russ are thriving because they put people first. This approach doesn’t just build businesses—it builds stronger communities.
Russ envisions a sustainable future for Daytona, where businesses remain deeply connected to the community while expanding their reach.
“Growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of values,” he says.
By empowering entrepreneurs to lead with heart, Russ is shaping a brighter future—one business and one connection at a time.
4. GROWING WITH PURPOSE
Russ Thomas combines empathy and relationship to create best business practices
Russ Thomas is a certified Cardone Coach
THE LURE OF SCOTTSDALE
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale —also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm (including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack
What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
BESTIES, BEVERAGES, AND BEACH FUN:
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
Your Ultimate Daytona Valentine's Day Hunt!
This Valentine's Day, break out of the usual and grab your best friends for a fun-filled scavenger hunt through Daytona Beach. With clues that rhyme and adventures around every corner, you’ll explore local treasures, support your favorite businesses, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
1. START WITH A SNAP: FIND THE BABY ALLIGATOR AT DAYTONA AQUARIUM
CLUE: "Small and scaly, a gator so sweet, Snap a photo—what a treat! For just five bucks, you can pose with pride, at the Aquarium, adventure’s inside!"
LOCATION: Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure
Kick off your Valentines Day with an unforgettable moment at Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure. A baby alligator photo op is the perfect way to start the hunt with a fun twist!
2. SNAP A PHOTO WITH A DAYTONA MURAL
CLUE: "On Daytona’s walls, colors shine bright, Find a mural that feels just right. Strike a pose and snap it fast, A picture here will surely last!"
LOCATION: Downtown Daytona Beach
Explore the local art scene as you hunt for the most stunning mural in Daytona. Don’t forget to snap a creative shot with your besties to capture the moment!
Baby Alligators galore at Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure
3. TASTE TEST: A LOCAL CRAFT COCKTAIL
CLUE: "Now for a sip, so crisp and divine, Find a craft cocktail to call yours and mine. Locally made with flavors so true, Toast to friendship and Daytona too!"
LOCATION: The Cellar or Mama Fufus
Make a stop at one of Daytona’s bars or Mama Fufus, like The Cellar, where you can sip on a cocktail made with locally sourced ingredients. Raise a glass to Valentine’s Day!
4. BEACHSIDE BLISS: COLLECT SEASHELLS AT ORMOND BEACH
CLUE:"Head to the beach where the waters are clear, Search for shells, and bring them near! Ormond’s shoreline has treasures galore, Find a unique shell to win the next score!"
LOCATION: Ormond Beach
Drive just north to Ormond Beach, where the quieter shorelines are perfect for finding beautiful seashells. See who can find the rarest or most unique shell to collect and move on to the next clue!
Grab a craft cocktail from Mama Fufus or The Celler
Grab some seashells at Ormond Beach
Grab your besties and set off on a Valentine's Day adventure in Daytona Beach! With a scavenger hunt full of fun stops—baby alligators, colorful murals, craft cocktails, seashells, mini-golf, and more—you’ll create lasting memories while exploring local treasures. Start the hunt and make this Valentine's Day unforgettable!
5. POP, SIP, AND ENJOY: TREAT YOURSELF AT POP STROKE
CLUE : "Putt, sip, and play, it's a blast, At Pop Stroke, fun is built to last!
A drink in hand and a smile on your face, Play a round of golf and set the pace!"
LOCATION: Pop Stroke
Time for some fun and games at Pop Stroke, Daytona’s trendy spot for mini-golf with a twist! Grab a refreshing drink, challenge your friends to a round of putt-putt, and enjoy the vibrant energy of this local hotspot.
6. THE FINAL STOP: SNAP A GROUP SHOT AT THE DAYTONA BEACH PIER
CLUE:"The last stop is near the sand and sea, Snap a group photo—just you and me! At the pier, your journey ends, With memories made and joy to send!"
LOCATION: Daytona Beach Pier
Wrap up your adventure at Daytona Beach Pier. This iconic spot is perfect for a group photo to capture the day’s fun and the beauty of Daytona.
Daytona's beautiful Pier
Who's going to win?
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
smart SWEETS
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa
BREAKFAST
Bars
realty report
FEBRUARY 8TH
Daytona Beach Half Marathon & 5K
events
Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States | 7:00 AM
CLASH Endurance proudly operates the Daytona Beach Half Marathon & 5K. The course will begin at Daytona International Speedway and travel by Daytona Beach landmarks such as: Bethune-Cookman University, Riverfront Esplanade, Jackie Robinson Ballpark, and the Motorsports Hall of Fame, then back to finish at One Daytona.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Valentines Day at the Aquarium
1008 West International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL, United States, Florida 32114 | 5:00 PM
Special Valentine's Day Features: Romantic Underwater Dining: Enjoy a private dinner next to our breathtaking aquariums, complete with a candlelit ambiance. Tables can be reserved for an intimate setting of just 2 or more. Reserve your table on our Website today! https://daytonaaquariumandrainforest.aluvii.com/event
FEBRUARY 22ND
Junior League of Daytona Beach’s 22nd Annual Sweetheart Ball
The Ocean Center | 6:00 PM
Held annually, the Sweetheart Ball is the premier father (or father-figure) and daughter dance in Volusia County. Attendees will dance the night away and enjoy various activities throughout the evening including a candy bar, mocktails, the famous Keys to the Castle activity, chance-to-win raffles, exciting photo opportunities and more!
As we age, the delicate skin around our eyes and face begins to show signs of wear—fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, and sagging. Daytona MedSpa, offers the revolutionary NeoGen PSR Technology to restore and rejuvenate your eye area and face, leaving you refreshed and youthful—all without surgery.
Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing: smooth, wrinkle-free skin around your eyes; lifted, youthful eyelids; bright, refreshed eyes free from dark circles; vanished puffiness and under-eye bags; and radiant skin that glows with confidence. Reclaim your youthful glow today!
Mayce “the NeoGen expert at Daytona Medspa” has taken my face, and hands back about 10 years with the Neogen PSR treatment. My hyperpigmentation is gone, my wrinkles around my lips and eyes are smooth and my overall skin condition is much improved. I’m completely happy with the results and the continued improvement! If you are looking for non-invasive rejuvenation treatments for face and body, I highly recommend Daytona Medspa and the NeoGen Treatment!
— Rebecca Lane
Sara Chrisman Founder of Daytona Medspa