community for years.
www.sunrise.bank
community for years.
www.sunrise.bank
In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves pausing to reflect on the many blessings that shape our lives. Thanksgiving is a time that invites us to slow down, appreciate the present, and recognize the value of the relationships and moments that matter most. It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of goals, success, and achievements. While these are important, the true spirit of Thanksgiving reminds us that fulfillment doesn’t come from titles or possessions, but from the deep sense of contentment that grows within when we live with purpose and gratitude.
As we focus on togetherness and giving back, our November issue is dedicated to stories that celebrate community, thankfulness, and service. This month, we’re proud to highlight the efforts of local women who have gone above and beyond to support the Daytona area. These inspiring individuals, whom we’ve affectionately named Daytona’s Unsung Heros and Community Champions, embody the spirit of selflessness and service. Their work reminds us of the powerful impact one person can have in the lives of many.
We’re also excited to share an insightful piece by local counselor Casey Williams, who explores the practice of keeping a Gratitude Journal. This simple yet profound tool helps cultivate mindfulness, encouraging us to focus on what we are thankful for each day.
We are deeply grateful for the residents and businesses that make our community vibrant and compassionate. A special thanks goes to our advertising partners, whose support helps us bring stories of hope and inspiration to your doorsteps every month.
As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, let’s take time to reflect on what truly matters and give thanks for the blessings that enrich our lives.
Warmest wishes to you and your family,
TJ FILLEY, PUBLISHER
November 2024
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
Tiffany Joubert
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Kenneth Grant Inzpirations
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
At A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC, we understand that your home is more than just a place to live—it’s a statement of your success and a reflection of your impeccable taste. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in delivering roofing and construction solutions that exceed the highest standards of luxury, quality, and precision
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Samantha Tribble is the visionary founder of Lunar Studios, a creative hub dedicated to fostering artistic expression and community engagement. The studio offers a range of services, from photography and videography to workshops and events, all aimed at inspiring local talent and showcasing the beauty of the area. With a passion for collaboration and a commitment to inclusivity, Lunar Studios serves as a vibrant space where creativity thrives and connections are made.
Atlantic Marine in Port Orange is a premier destination for boat enthusiasts, offering a wide range of services, including sales, service, and storage. Known for its knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer satisfaction, the facility provides everything from routine maintenance to custom repairs. With a focus on quality and reliability, Atlantic Marine serves the needs of both recreational and commercial boaters, making it a trusted resource in the boating community of Central Florida.
Pixie Dust’s goal is to help clients get to know their numbers so that they can confidently make financial decisions and spend more time on what they do best: running their business!
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENNETH GRANT INZPIRATIONS
Their stories shine as a powerful testament to how a spark of inspiration, ignited by passion and purpose, can explode into something truly extraordinary. These remarkable women—Charlene Greer, Teresa Smith, and Kristen Wiles— are not just community leaders; they
What started as a modest gathering has grown into the largest Jeep event in the world, attracting over 200,000 visitors to Daytona Beach annually.
The event has become a beacon of generosity, raising millions of dollars to support a wide range of causes, from child develop-
are catalysts for impact, embodying the essence of making a change rather than excuses. Transforming the hearts and lives of thousands. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting them, allow us to introduce you to our Community Champions, redefining the landscape of philanthropy in our county and beyond.
Charlene Greer, known by her biker name “Sparkles,” may describe herself as a “Mermaid,” but her impact on the community is anything but whimsical. Her journey with Jeep Beach began with a simple goal: to unite Jeep enthusiasts for a good cause.
ment to veterans’ services and environmental protection. Each year, Charlene ensures that Jeep Beach isn’t just about financial contributions but also about building a sense of community with heart. Through her leadership, Jeep Beach has transformed from a hobby-driven event into a movement of purpose, inspiring Jeep owners worldwide to rally for greater causes.
Charlene’s heart is the deep connection to the people who benefit from these donations. Through her tireless work, she’s proven that even the most niche passions can be powerful forces for good. If you’re inspired by her story, mark your calendars for Jeep Beach 2025, April 18-27. Volunteer, donate, or catch Charlene yelling her signature phrase “Howdy Ya’ll!”
CONTINUED >
Teresa Smith had a vision for simple community-enriched philanthropy, and Volusia County Women Who Care is the result. The concept is straightforward and powerful: Four times a year, the members meet, each pledging $100. Members can nominate local non-profits that are based in Volusia County and have been operating for a year or more. Collectively, the members listen to three nonprofit organizations present their missions and needs in a ten-minute time frame. After hearing the presentations, the group votes, and the winning nonprofit receives a donation, exceeding $30,000. Even the runners-up benefit, each receiving a smaller grant.
In just one evening, a grassroots organization can receive more funding than it might collect in an entire year. With little more than a commitment to show up and donate, these women are transforming the non-profit landscape in Volusia County.
Teresa has created a space where women can come with minimal overhead and maximum heart. The seven-year anniversary party and meeting will be held on November 14th at the Halifax River Yacht Club.
KRISTEN WILES AND ATLANTIC MARINE: TURNING A HOLIDAY PARTY INTO A TRADITION OF GENEROSITY
Eight years ago, Kristen Wiles and her mother-in-law Mary set out to thank Atlantic Marine’s customers with a holiday party. What began as a simple gesture of appreciation quickly evolved into a community-wide initiative to support Toys for Tots. Kristen, along with her brother-in-law from Sea Tow Daytona, created a contest to “stuff a boat” with toys for children in need. The competition has grown every year, and the event now raises around $40,000 annually and gathers hundreds of toys for children in the community.
The secret to the event’s success lies in its community spirit. What could have been just another corporate holiday party has turned into a cherished tradition, bringing joy to families during the holiday season. Kristen’s leadership has transformed Atlantic Marine’s party into a beacon of hope for those less fortunate.
Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as a party—a moment of gratitude that, when paired with a little creativity and a lot of heart, can turn into something far greater than expected.
As you reflect on these women’s work, consider how you, too, can make an impact in your unique way. In this season of giving, let us celebrate these Champions and all the unsung heroes who remind us that “hero” is not just a noun—it’s a verb.
We leave you with this how will you choose to make your impact? How will you make change and not excuses?
I love decorating for the holiday season, but it gets tough if trying to keep a home decor airy, light and neutral. My home is full of neutrals, such as linen, khaki, white and gray, so decorating for the holidays can be tricky with the bright and bold themes on display at the stores. Here are tips regarding how to achieve a festive look without going overboard.
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
First, whenever decorating for the holiday season, I clear what's possible to make room for what's coming. I eliminate decor pieces that are displayed year-round to avoid adding clutter to rooms. Giving decor pieces or floral arrangements their own space to shine can pull the room together and make it feel very designed.
As best as possible, I try to stick to each of the color palettes in my room. When it’s time to bring out pumpkins or holiday Santas, I stick to white and neutral or add in color pops of gold and silver to keep everything flowing. If I start to add too many primary colors, it ends up looking like a mash-up gone astray.
The holidays are often bursting with family traditions and memories, and decor can reflect that, too. I have many items handed down over the years that I like admiring, but if they aren’t quite right for my room, there are options to bring the spirit of them to life. Framed holiday family photos in a black and white filter are an excellent way to tie in your history of celebrating in a subtle way.
Some of my favorite items to use for holiday decor come from a simple nature walk. Using actual items you find, or just getting inspiration from the outdoors is a great way to bring sights of the season indoors. For fall, elements such as branches, leaves and neutral gourds match with everything. For winter, I love using sticks with berries
or evergreen branches with pine cones to fill vases. Add a battery-operated strand of lights and you’re looking just like a designer home magazine spread.
Swapping out usual throw pillows and throw blankets for plushy, cuddly materials and seasonal prints are another simple way to add holiday spirit without being so literal. Opting for neutral plaids, cable knits, or sherpa materials add that feeling of fall and winter.
Don’t forget about the smell! Stocking up on candles that smell like the season is the last missing piece for a holiday vibe. The total sensory feeling of the holidays is what really brings a home to life, whether it's pumpkin spice burning for Thanksgiving or a fresh pine and cedar for Christmas.
If items aren’t working together, don’t be afraid to get crafty. Painting pumpkins with spray paint or tying some neutral ribbons around existing vases are an easy and affordable way to make them fit a specific aesthetic.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
Food is exciting to cook, and satisfying to eat but is it enjoyable to read? Novels where food is prominently featured can be a veritable feast for the eyes. Food imagery, also called gustatory imagery, adds depth to a novel, providing a springboard for all kinds of descriptive and symbolic language. Different dishes can transport a reader to new regions of the world, reveal a character’s culture, or symbolically deepen the meaning of a text. So, dive into this list of autumn reads and don’t forget to save room for seconds.
ARTICLE BY HANNAH BARRICKS
by Timothy Taylor
True crime fans and foodies alike will enjoy this beautifully written novel. The novel follows a Vancouver based chef, Jeremy Papier and his failing bistro. As Papier tries to hold his dreams together, his homeless father drags him into a real-life, 1940s “cold case” investigation. The novel mindfully uses the investigation as well as Papier’s commitment to locally grown foods to pay tribute to Vancouver’s landscape and history.
by Ernest Hemingway
Published after his untimely death, A Moveable Feast is Hemingway’s memoir. A love letter to 1920s Paris and the literary movement, Hemingway charters the reader through his early years there, one cafe at a time. Along the way, familiar characters like Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald float in and out. This no-frills prose will stick to your ribs and leave you satisfied.
by Erica Bauermeister
Love is in the air at this Monday night cooking school. The novel follows a cast of hapless students as they are instructed in both the kitchen and in life by the school’s owner, Lillian. Lillian is the group’s fairy godmother as she hands out morsels of advice and challenges the students with advanced recipes. A cozy read, be prepared to fall in love with the decadence of the school’s dishes as well as the sweet message that lingers long after you put down the book.
by Ferrett Steinmetz
If you love science fiction, this big-hearted, culinary space opera is sure to hit the spot. The story follows impoverished Kenna, an aspiring guru who hungrily wanders the cosmos until he wins dinner at the galaxy’s most renowned restaurant, The Sol Majestic. A novel that is both fun and thought provoking, Steinmetz uses striking food imagery to explore what truly excites the spirit.
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
B E W E L L N E S S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting those from sickness prevalent in the colder season. “Seasonal scents are cozy and warm” states Kecia Doll, who is an esthetician from Sweet Be Wellness, “the seasonal scents remind us about how a new time is coming: it’s a time of renewal.” Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts, Kills Bacteria; Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant and Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD| PHOTOGRAPHY
This butter is versatile and goes with just about anything. You can use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs.)
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cracked pepper to taste
Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!
Add a little kick to your traditional popcorn by incorporating herbs in with the butter. You won’t be disappointed with this buttery and savory combination.
Ingredients
• 13 tablespoons coconut oil (or olive oil if you prefer)
• 3/4 cup popcorn kernels
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 2 teaspoons parsley (dried)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
Add oil to the bottom of a pot and melt over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels and place lid on top of the pot and heat over medium heat until kernels are popped, shaking pan occasionally. Melt butter in a separate dish and add seasonings. Pour on top, and enjoy!
“There are endless flavor combinations, and these salts are so handy to have as a staple in the kitchen.”
Herb salts are becoming so popular and can add flavor to a variety of dishes. There are endless flavor combinations, and these salts are so handy to have as a staple in the kitchen. Plus, these make great gifts for family and friends. All you need is a blender or food processor and minimal ingredients.
• 1 cup salt of your choice (I prefer Himalayan pink salt, but any salt will do
• 1/4- 1/2 cup parsley (add more if using fresh herbs)
• 2 Tablespoons dried basil (or 1/4 cup if using fresh)
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 garlic clove minced
• Optional: Any additional herbs you prefer
Add fresh parsley, garlic, lemon zest and a little bit of salt to the blender or food processor. Mix for 10 seconds. Add additional ingredients and blend again. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and pour salt mixture on sheet and evening spread. Set in a cool oven overnight to dry. Pour salt into a container of choice and enjoy!
Gratitude journaling has become a widely recommended practice for improving mental health and well-being. According to Casey Williams, Registered Clinical Mental Health Counselor, the benefits of regularly writing in a gratitude journal are substantial. “Those who practice gratitude often experience increased happiness, life satisfaction, and even physical health improvements,” Williams explains. She adds that these personal benefits ripple outward, encouraging kindness and generosity in others.
However, starting a gratitude journal can come with challenges. People may doubt its impact or struggle to identify things to be thankful for, particularly on tough days. Williams advises, “Zoom out and focus on the basics, like the air you breathe or the ground beneath your feet.”
To make journaling more meaningful, Williams encourages being thoughtful and intentional. It’s not about listing as many things as possible but reflecting deeply on the positive aspects of life. She offers helpful prompts like “New & Good,” which asks you to recognize good things happening right now.
Over time, gratitude journaling can foster empathy, reduce conflict, and strengthen relationships. Williams sums it up by reminding us, “If we focus on the negative, it’s only fair to also focus on what’s going right!”
A gratitude journal is a powerful tool for reflection and positivity. By writing down what you’re thankful for each day, you focus on life’s blessings, big and small. This simple practice can improve your mood, increase resilience, and shift your perspective to one of abundance and appreciation. Casey Williams helps us understand how to use this powerful tool!
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
How to Start and Maintain a Meaningful Gratitude Journal
The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.
4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined.
5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended.
7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal.
8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
NOVEMBER 1ST
Brannon Center | 6:00 PM
Join us for a night of fun and giving back at the beautiful Brannon Center. Get ready for delicious food, live music, and exciting auctions. Your attendance will help support our mission of making a positive impact in our community! This event theme is Dia De Los MuertosDress to Impress! Check out https://www.funcoastfoundation.org/events-1 for more information
NOVEMBER 9TH
520 Dunlawton Ave, Port Orange, FL | 5:00 PM
Live Music: Groove to the festive beats of St. Augustine’s own Chillula
Raffles: Enter for a chance to win fantastic prizes
Live Auction: Experience the excitement of a live auction
Food & Drinks: Enjoy small bites and drink from local restaurants
Admission: $10 per person with a wristband and 1 unwrapped toy for event entry.
NOVEMBER 14TH
VOLUSIA COUNTY WOMEN WHO CARE 7TH YEAR CELEBRATION AND MEETING
Halifax Yacht Club | 5:00 PM, 4:30 PM- 7:00 PM
You are cordially invited to an evening of celebration, and community spirit as we commemorate the 7th Anniversary of the VCWWC
NOVEMBER 16TH
Boudoir By lunar Studio | 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive Open House at our photography studio and discover the magic we can create for you! This event is your chance to explore our range of services, with a special focus on our renowned boudoir photography sessions. What to Expect: Explore Our Work: Browse through stunning examples of our boudoir photography, view our beautiful albums, and admire our exquisite wall art. Client Closet: Take a peek inside our fabulous client closet, featuring a selection of lingerie, props, and those iconic Christian Louboutin red-bottom heels. OneDay-Only Special: Take advantage of a special offer on our available 2025 session dates, available exclusively during the Open House.
NOVEMBER 23RD
HISTORIC ORMOND BEACH ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!
Along West and East Granada BLVD | 10:00 AM
Come out to Historic Ormond Beach on SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, for a celebration of small businesses that make our town so special! Your favorite restaurants, shops & galleries in the heart of Ormond Beach are coming together for ONE DAY ONLY to offer special deals, tastings, live music, activities, giveaways and more. Just in time for holiday shopping!
DECEMBER 7TH
VOLUSIA CIVIC BALLET PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER
Peabody Auditorium | 7:00 PM https://www.civicballetvc.org/
The community comes together to celebrate Volusia Civic Ballet in Performances of the Nutcracker