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Being Thankful
In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Daytona such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.
As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.
This is also the start of the fundraising season in the Daytona area. Making charitable donations to local non-profit organizations has a direct impact on the quality of life for many in our community. Your donations will help others find more to be thankful for and will be greatly appreciated.
Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,
THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY, PUBLISHER @DAYTONACITYLIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Thomas John (TJ) Filley tj.filley@citylifestyle.com
1: Mayce and Sara Chrisman receiving award for City Scene.
Janet
and Charlie
the Daytona Chamber of Commerce. 3: The team at 4 Rivers Smokehouse in Daytona receiving award for City List. 4: Charlie Lydecker of Foundation Risk Partners addressing guests at the Daytona Chamber's Lunch with Leaders. 5: Kelly Amy, Lori McMullin and Erica Rains at 4 Rivers Smokehouse with the Daytona Chamber. 6: Volusia County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Joe King addressing guests at Eggs & Issues. 7: Nancy Lohman and Mark Francis at Halifax Humane Society's Fur Ball kick-off social.
2: T.J. Filley, Nancy Keefer,
Kersey
Lydecker at
BRENNA HARRIS
ERICA RAINS
LISA SOLOMONS
LISA SOLOMONS
ERICA RAINS
LISA SOLOMONS
TJ turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Daytona City Lifestyle
Published by TJ
Loved by Daytona
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Insurance Agency
Alison Boscovich - State Farm Insurance Agent https://www.statefarm.com/agent/us/fl/ormond-beach/alison-boscovich |
Brown & Brown http://www.bbrown.com/ | 386.252.9601
Foundation Risk Partners https://foundationrp.com/ | 386.999.0001
Rufus Johnson - GEICO Insurance Agent https://www.geico.com/insurance-agents/florida/orlando/rufus-johnson/ | 386.304.9363
Shawn E. Brown Insurance https://shawnbrowninsurance.com/ | 386.866.1090
Roofer
A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC https://aibroofing.com/ | 386.216.3105
This month’s theme is “Thankful,” and while planning the issue in August, a storm offshore reminded me how quickly life can change. After recent hurricane seasons—Milton in 2024, Ian and Nicole in 2022— I decided to spotlight two essential industries that help us recover and rebuild: insurance and roofing.
ARTICLE BY TJ FILLEY
Insurance—whether it’s for home, health, auto, or business—offers more than coverage. It provides the reassurance that we can bounce back when life doesn’t go according to plan. We turned to our readers on Facebook and Instagram to find out which local agencies they trust most. The results include two major national firms based right here: Brown & Brown and Foundation Risk Partners, as well as highly rated local agencies like Allison Boscovich’s State Farm Agency, Rufus Johnson’s GEICO Agency, and the Shawn E. Brown Agency
In roofing, readers recognized local standouts like A.I.B. Roofing and Construction, Bert Faircloth Roofing, Foundation Roofing and Construction, Volusia-Flagler Roofing, and WKL Roofing. Awardees are listed in alphabetical order.
We’ll pause the City List in December but return in January. Keep voting on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
“From unexpected storms to everyday challenges, having the right insurance and a reliable roofer means everything when it’s time to recover and rebuild. This month, we’re celebrating the local professionals who help us weather life’s toughest moments—and reminding ourselves why we’re so thankful to live in a community that shows up when it matters most.”
Local agents make filing claims easy
See the City List for the best local roofers
Photo: Insurance comes in many forms
Heroes Helping Animals
HALIFAX HUMANE'S FUR BALL WITH DR. KWANE STEWART TO BRING AWARENESS AND GIVE BACK.
ARTICLE BY ERICA RAINS
Each November, Halifax Humane Society’s Fur Ball shines as one of Volusia County’s most anticipated evenings; and it grows more spectacular each year. In 2025, the event promises to be unforgettable, led by CEO Sean Hawkins and headlined by CNN’s Hero of the Year, Dr. Kwane Stewart. Glamour meets purpose at “Barkfest at Tiffany’s”, this year’s theme... arriving just as the season of gratitude begins.
A kiss on the cheek — proof of the bond Stewart nurtures on every street corner
What began 16 years ago as a fun ugly sweater party has evolved into a signature gala, now attracting 600 supporters. “We’ve grown it from that to a glamorous evening in the Ocean Center ballroom,” says Hawkins. Along the way, the Fur Ball has welcomed special guests whose hearts for animals match the cause. Last year’s guest, Brandon McMillan of CBS’s Lucky Dog, helped set a new standard for local giving. This year, the spotlight turns to Dr. Kwane Stewart, co-founder of Project Street Vet, whose work embodies both compassion and urgency.
Hawkins first met Stewart 13 years ago while producing the Hero Dog Awards for the American Humane Association, just as Project Street Vet was beginning. He has followed Stewart’s work ever since and describes himself as a longtime fan. When Stewart was nominated for the CNN Hero Award, Hawkins encouraged others to support him, and he says having Stewart at this year’s Fur Ball feels both timely and meaningful.
That invitation also reflects where Halifax Humane Society is headed. Hawkins points to the organization’s next chapter — the launch of a community veterinary clinic designed to keep pets with their families regardless of income. For him, the connection is clear: Dr. Kwane has shown on a national stage what Halifax Humane is working to deliver locally. By offering accessible veterinary care, the society hopes to prevent animals from being surrendered simply because families can’t afford medical bills.
That mission resonates deeply with Stewart. Known as “The Street Vet,” he has spent more than a decade walking sidewalks, visiting encampments, and sitting on curbs with people who are unhoused, offering care to the animals that are often their only companions. He has witnessed the fierce loyalty of those who will forgo shelter or food if it means keeping their pets. “They love their pets with a kind of devotion most of us can’t imagine,” Stewart says. “Sometimes, that animal is all they have left in the world.” His work is a reminder that the bond between people and pets transcends circumstance, and that keeping them together is an act of both mercy and justice.
Stewart’s smile says it all: compassion is contagious.
The impact of the Fur Ball stretches far beyond one glamorous evening. Each ticket sold and each sponsorship pledged helps fund programs that touch more than 15,000 animals every year — from animal sheltering and pet adoption programs to accessible spay/ neuter services and lifesaving medical care. It also fuels Halifax Humane Society’s efforts to offer resources that keep families intact, such as affordable veterinary care and guidance for pet owners navigating hardship. “The Fur Ball is where our community shows what’s possible when compassion takes the lead,” Hawkins says. “It’s glamorous, yes, but it’s also lifesaving.”
Guests will still feel the sparkle. They’ll step onto a Hollywood-style red carpet before entering a ballroom inspired by Breakfast at Tiffany’s — chic black dresses, pearls, and Audrey Hepburn elegance. The evening includes fine dining, live entertainment, and spirited auctions, all framed by a shared belief that animals and people belong together.
For Stewart, being named CNN’s Hero of the Year was a milestone, but it is the work itself that defines him. He has built Project Street Vet into a grassroots movement, supported by volunteers and veterinarians eager to replicate the model in their own cities. What keeps him going, he says, are the quiet moments — kneeling beside a dog on a sidewalk, listening to the stories of people who may have lost everything else but refuse to give up their pets.
That devotion continues to shape his philosophy. “Kindness can take many forms,” Stewart says. “It doesn’t have to be transactional. It can just be an exchange of
Compassion in action: Dr. Kwane examines a dog belonging to one of the unhoused.
Dogs know kindness when they see it — and Stewart never holds back.
humanity.” He urges communities to find simple ways to help — whether that’s supporting a humane society, starting a conversation with someone in need, or sponsoring veterinary care through a local clinic. The message is as practical as it is hopeful: small gestures, multiplied, keep families and pets together.
As Hawkins explains, “That’s the purpose of the Fur Ball. We can get dressed up for an evening and have our best supporters together to hear the most exciting updates on the organization, share our future plans, and present a Humanitarian of the Year Award.” In the end, glamour meets purpose once more, as the generosity of the community advances Halifax Humane Society’s mission to protect animals and support the people who love them — including those who are unhoused and often have little else. With Dr. Kwane Stewart lending his voice and his heart, the Fur Ball becomes more than a gala; it is a night where compassion takes center stage.
For all the details about Fur Ball, including ways to become involved, visit https://gala.halifaxhumanesociety.org.
A moment of quiet strength — Stewart stands where his work so often begins: on the streets
H O P E
with YOU
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Tips on meal prepping for less stress
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful. To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Create Your Thanksgiving Menu
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand.
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout.
4-5 DAYS BEFORE
Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh
Groceries
• Clean your home completely. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating.
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Prep Meals & Set the Table
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go. Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dust-free.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
1 DAY BEFORE
Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
Dr Jillian Morrison specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery offering a full range of surgical and non-surgical procedures including, Botox, Filler, Microneedling, in office eyelid lift, and liposuction.
Thanks for voting for us in the City List 2025!
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
For Rufus Johnson, gratitude isn’t just a feeling. It’s a responsibility; one he carries with quiet conviction. As the owner of the GEICO office in Daytona Beach, Rufus has built a 25-year legacy not just on policies and coverage, but on showing up, giving back, and doing right by others.
“I didn’t get where I am by myself,” he says. “That’s why I give back—to honor those who helped me.”
Raised in Prentiss, Mississippi, Rufus grew up understanding the value of service and community. His journey took him through the U.S. Navy and into healthcare management before eventually leading him to open his own agency in Florida. Today, the Johnson Agency is one of only about 30 GEICO-exclusive locations in the state. His business is trusted by thousands of local clients, many of them multi-generational.
But Rufus is quick to point out that the success of the business has always been about people, not policies.
For Rufus Johnson, giving back is how he honors every hand that lifted him up.
ARTICLE BY ERICA RAINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
YGRATITUDEINSU RESEVERY DA
The Johnson Agency on Beville Road: trusted insurance, personal service, and deep community roots.
“I’m not just an agent. I’m a neighbor. A friend. A voice you can count on.”
Whether guiding his team through daily power sessions or personally helping a client understand their coverage, Rufus leads with humility. He credits his team for their commitment, and his community for their support, which he returns tenfold.
Rufus has served as Past Chairman of the Volusia/Flagler Family YMCA and the Division of Blind Services, and currently holds several leadership roles across the region. He’s Vice-Chairman of the Daytona State College Foundation, Co-Chairman of the Volusia County African-American Leadership Council, and an Executive Board Member of the Checkered Flag Committee. He also serves on the boards of the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Governors of LPGA Golf Course.
These aren’t just titles; they’re testaments to a philosophy. Rufus shows up. He doesn’t serve for recognition; he serves because someone once served him.
“People count on us when things go wrong,” he says. “So it matters how we show up when that call comes in.”
Whether it’s a flat tire, a hurricane, or a first-time driver nervously buying their first policy, Rufus and his team are ready with a calm voice, a clear explanation, and a sense of care that goes beyond the paperwork.
In a world where convenience often replaces connection, Rufus Johnson’s presence is a quiet reminder: gratitude is best expressed through service. His legacy is living proof that when you honor those who helped you rise, you lift others as you go.
The Johnson Agency team starts each day with focus, service, and a shared commitment to their clients.
More than an office—this is where Rufus Johnson shows up for his team, his clients, and his city.
Presented in a farmhousestyle egg holder, these bites feel charming and elevated.
RUSTIC DEVILED EGGS
Serve these at your next gathering and instantly elevate your chef status.
Ingredients:
• 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 ½ teaspoons grain mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ cup finely minced shallots or red onions
• 2 tablespoons green tomato chow chow
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• Parsley or chives, for garnish
• Thinly julienned radishes, for garnish
• Extra smoked paprika, for garnish
Chef Tips & Tricks:
Directions:
Step 1. Prepare the Eggs: Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Scoop out yolks into a bowl. Place whites on a platter.
Step 2. Make the Filling: Mash yolks until crumbly. Add mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 3. Add the Mix-ins: Stir in shallots and chow chow until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4. Fill the Eggs: Spoon or pipe yolk mixture into whites. Use a large piping tip to prevent clogging.
Step 5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with smoked paprika, herbs, and radishes. Chill 30 minutes before serving.
Make Ahead: Prepare filling a day early and refrigerate in an airtight container. Keep whites separate until serving.
Enhance Flavor: Try a garnish of candied bacon bits for a savory crunch. Chill for Texture: Refrigerating the filling before piping helps it firm up, making it easier to work with and improving the bite.
Reimagining a classic with a bold twist, perfect for family gatherings
ARTICLE BY ERICA RAINS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEF CHRIS RAINS
ROOFING MILES ABOVE
FROM STORM SECURITY TO COMMUNITY INTEGRITY, VOLUSIA-FLAGLER ROOFING DELIVERS.
ARTICLE BY ERICA RAINS
With every roof they build or repair, VolusiaFlagler Roofing weaves trust, craftsmanship, and community care into the structure. Guided by owner Doug Miles, a U.S. Air Force veteran, the company stands as a reliable partner for homeowners and businesses across Volusia and Flagler counties.
More than just a contractor, Volusia-Flagler Roofing is a veteran-owned, full-service company built on the principle of “doing the right
Volusia-Flagler Roofing delivers strength and style across every neighborhood.
thing.” Their reputation rests on experience, quality, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, whether the project is a replacement or a small repair.
Doug served in the Air Force and Air Force reserves including work in Afghanistan as a contractor. He returned home in 2012, entered the roofing industry, and by 2020 had opened his own company. Those years instilled discipline, accountability, and service: principles that guide every project.
The company’s services cover the full spectrum. For new roof installations, the team works closely with homeowners to tailor construction to their needs, offering shingle and metal systems. For those facing leaks or storm damage, repairs are a core specialty. “We do repairs where a lot of roofing companies only want to do full roof replacements,” Doug explains.
In Florida, shingle roofs remain the most common choice for their affordability, with ratings up to 130 mph. Doug notes that metal roofing provides an added layer of security, engineered to withstand winds around 150 mph. Thanks to interlocking panels and higher impact resistance, metal roofs often hold up better in hurricanes but do run about 45% more expensive.
Insurance requirements are another area where Doug educates customers. Once a roof reaches 15 to 20 years of age, insurance companies often require replacement before renewing coverage. “That’s probably about 30 percent of my business,” Doug says. His team helps clients navigate these policies with clarity and fairness.
“I can’t sleep well unless I know all my customers are happy.”
Beyond roofing, Doug invests in the community. He is a trustee member of the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce and supports The Arc of Volusia.
For Doug, success isn’t measured in numbers but in trust. “I like to sleep at night. And I can’t sleep well unless I know all my customers are happy,” he says.
Volusia-Flagler Roofing isn’t just a business—it’s Doug’s promise to protect neighbors, serve with integrity, and deliver roofs that last.
A roof built to last — performance and value working together.
TRANSFORMATIONAL TRAVEL
Africa, India and New Zealanda worldly way to travel.
ARTICLE
BY MARNIE VAN DER BURGT
Tradition, color, and the warmth of chai.
Tourism, tradition, and tranquility all meet on the waters of Pichola.
Exploring Africa’s most iconic wilderness.
THANKFUL FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL TRAVEL
One of the things I love most about being a Luxury Travel Advisor is seeing how travel changes people. Some of the most meaningful journeys I’ve curated aren’t just vacations—they’re experiences that touch the soul and leave clients forever grateful.
Travel has that power. It slows us down, shifts our perspective, and reminds us of how much beauty there is in the world.
Here are three destinations that inspire peace, gratitude, and transformation.
AFRICA – AWE IN THE WILD
There’s nothing like being on safari. Watching elephants move across the plains or hearing the stillness of the bush at sunrise fills you with awe and gratitude. Many travelers return home saying Africa helped them see life differently—simpler, more connected, more alive.
Highlight: At Usawa Serengeti in Tanzania, you’re immersed in the rhythm of the land itself. Imagine drifting off to sleep with the sounds of the Serengeti, then waking at dawn to see the savannah come alive.
INDIA – A JOURNEY INWARD
India speaks to the soul. Its colors, traditions, and spirituality invite travelers to pause and reflect. Whether visiting an ashram, walking through temples, or sharing chai with locals, India offers a chance to rediscover gratitude in the simplest of moments.
Highlight: At The Oberoi Udaivilas, overlooking Lake Pichola, serenity meets tradition. Morning yoga, candlelit evenings, and the sound of temple bells create an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
NEW ZEALAND – WELCOMED WITH HEART
In New Zealand, travelers often describe a feeling of being embraced. A pōwhiri, the Māori people’s traditional welcome, is more than ceremony—it’s an expression of belonging. Combined with soaring peaks and turquoise lakes, New Zealand leaves visitors refreshed and deeply thankful.
RETURNING HOME CHANGED
The most powerful trips aren’t about collecting photos—they’re about returning home transformed. This season, I’m especially thankful for the journeys that bring peace, connection, and joy.
Breathing in New Zealand’s endless horizons.
uniqueGIFTING
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.
1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.
For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.
2) FUTURE FUN.
Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.
3) GENEROSITY.
Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.
4) TRAVEL.
Gift a loved one with a trip.
5) TIME.
Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.
6) LOVE OF LEARNING.
If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.
7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.
Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.
8) BON APPÉTIT.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 1ST
Halifax Art Festival
Beach Street area : between Bay Street & Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 | 9:00 AM
Celebrate art, food, and family fun at the Halifax Art Festival, Nov. 8–9 in downtown Daytona Beach. Featuring more than 150 artisans, live entertainment, children’s activities, and festival food, this long-running event draws 30,000 visitors each year. Enjoy fine art, crafts, shopping, and more while supporting the Museum of Arts & Sciences. Call 386-255-0285 for details.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Halifax Health - Hospice 5K Run and Walk
1999 City Center Cir, Port Orange, 32129, FL, United States | 8:00 AM
Lace up for the 24th Annual Hospice 5K Run & Walk on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Port Orange. Starting at 8 a.m., the festive race supports the Family Caregiver Program, which provides vital resources for those caring for loved ones. Wear your Halloween costume, enjoy awards, and register online by Oct. 30.
NOVEMBER 11TH
Veterans Day Ceremony at Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
78 East Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, FL 32176 | 11:00 AM
The Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens presents its 2025 Veterans Day Tribute, a USO-style show with music, dance, comedy, and special guests. Featuring Halifax Repertory Theatre and the Daytona Beach Choral Society, the free event honors veterans with vintage flair and patriotic spirit. Free parking available behind The Casements and St. James Episcopal Church.
NOVEMBER 15TH
16th annual Riverfest Seafood Festival
Rockefeller Gardens, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, FL 32176 | 10:00 AM
Ormond Beach’s signature fall event, the Riverfest Seafood Festival, returns November 15–16. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, live music, and local artisans while exploring Rockefeller Gardens and Fortunato Park. Family-friendly activities include a kids’ zone, free water taxi rides, and great entertainment. Adults can relax in the beer garden, while everyone can soak up the festive atmosphere along the riverfront.
NOVEMBER 15TH
Women2Women Fall Luncheon 2025
Hard Rock - 918 N Atlantic Ave Daytona Beach FL 32118 | 11:30 AM
Join us for an afternoon of connection and inspiration featuring Ryan Rugg, Global Head of Digital Assets at Citi. In a fireside chat moderated by Eva Connors McMullin of S.R. Perrott, Ryan will share insights on leadership, resilience, and innovation in global finance, as well as her journey balancing a high-profile career with family life.
NOVEMBER 21ST
Magic of Lights
1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 | 6:00 PM
Magic of Lights is a holiday drive-through light display located at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach Shores. It features millions of LED lights arranged in festive scenes and animated displays, creating a holiday experience families can enjoy from their cars. Runs Nov. 21-Jan. 3 from 6pm to 10pm
