Elevate Florida program now accepting applications to strengthen homes against future storms

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is now accepting applications for its Elevate Florida program, which provides funding to help homeowners protect their properties from future flood damage. This program offers Volusia County residents a chance to elevate, rebuild, or strengthen their homes, potentially saving them thousands in repairs, lowering flood insurance premiums, and increasing home values. The program is available even if a property has not previously experienced Read More » Continue reading Elevate Florida program now accepting applications to strengthen homes against future storms

Bobby G Takes on a Bet

An Epic Battle of College Pride Between Two Bartenders with Iron-Clad Allegiances Florida State Seminoles fan VS Florida Gators enthusiast In the heart of New Smyrna Beach, at the iconic Peanuts Sports Bar and Grill, a rivalry was born. It wasn’t just any rivalry; it was an epic battle of college pride between two bartenders with iron-clad allegiances. On one side was me, Bobby G, Read More » Continue reading Bobby G Takes on a Bet

Prioritize Healthy Living: Wellness Entrepreneurs

As the new year begins, two local businesses in Volusia County are helping residents embrace healthier lifestyles – Good Vibes Spin & Circuit and After Body Meals. These businesses, founded by passionate entrepreneurs, are making it easier for the community to prioritize fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Good Vibes Spin & Circuit Good Vibes Spin & Circuit, located at 117 N Orange Street in New Read More » Continue reading Prioritize Healthy Living: Wellness Entrepreneurs

ActivStars Kids’ Karate Spring Semester Kicks Off in Volusia County

ActivStars Athletics Kids’ Karate Classes ActivStars Athletics of Florida is excited to announce the upcoming semester of kids’ karate classes, designed to empower young participants with essential self-defense skills while promoting confidence, discipline and fun. With class locations in Port Orange, New Smyrna, Lake Helen and DeLand, ActivStars ensures families across Volusia County have easy access to this incredible program. ActivStars’ signature Safe Shield Stranger Read More » Continue reading ActivStars Kids’ Karate Spring Semester Kicks Off in Volusia County

Bobby G Takes on an Electric Adventure

Living and working in the New Smyrna Beach area, I often get asked about unique and memorable outdoor activities to fill a sunny afternoon. Skipping over the usual suggestions, I aim to surprise with suggestions that break away from the everyday. Recently, I personally took the plunge (quite literally) into three thrilling and completely unique activities, all of which I discovered conveniently accessible under one Read More » Continue reading Bobby G Takes on an Electric Adventure

New Children’s Book Brings the Wonders of Wildlife to Young Readers

“Pip’s Fishy Adventure, A True Story” Celebrated local wildlife photographer, Shelley Lynch, is thrilled to announce the release of her enchanting new children’s book, “Pip’s Fishy Adventure.” Perfect for young readers in fourth grade and up (and adored by kids of all ages), this heartwarming tale combines Lynch’s passion for storytelling with her love for wildlife, offering a vibrant glimpse into the wonders of nature. Read More » Continue reading New Children’s Book Brings the Wonders of Wildlife to Young Readers

Annual Plein Air Paint Out Returns to New Smyrna Beach

The 14th annual New Smyrna Beach Plein Air Paint Out is set for Oct. 15-19, and will once again benefit Marine Discovery Center and Artists’ Workshop NSB. Paint Out combines art and nature and features nationally recognized artists who travel to New Smyrna Beach to create outdoor paintings during each day of the weeklong event. Artists paint from dawn to dusk at various locations throughout the city and Read More » Continue reading Annual Plein Air Paint Out Returns to New Smyrna Beach

September Fishing Report: Hot Weather and a Hot Bite!

Report & Images by: Patrick “Tupat” Eichstaedt | @TheRealTupat August brought the heat – and the fish were biting just as hot! The backwaters of New Smyrna Beach and the Indian River Lagoon are teeming with bait, drawing in an array of trophy species eager to show their teeth. Redfish have been actively patrolling the creeks, while snook are sunning themselves along the banks, eagerly popping Read More » Continue reading September Fishing Report: Hot Weather and a Hot Bite!

NSB’s First Semi-Pro Soccer Team: NSB Current Football Club

New Smyrna Beach, Florida is now home to its first and only local semi-professional soccer team, the NSB Current FC (New Smyrna Beach Current Football Club). This groundbreaking team is poised to invigorate the local sports scene, offering a new avenue for local talent to flourish and bring exciting soccer action to the community. The ultimate goal for the club is to become a professional Read More » Continue reading NSB’s First Semi-Pro Soccer Team: NSB Current Football Club

Promoting Paradise by Removing a Parking Lot

With an opportunity to reverse decades of paving over paradise to put up a parking lot, the Marine Discovery Center along with community partners and local enthusiasts, has removed 13,000 square feet of impervious pavement, reshaped the shoreline, and is converting the shoreline and several upland parking lot medians into a productive coastal habitat. Over the next week, the Living Shoreline habitat will begin the Read More » Continue reading Promoting Paradise by Removing a Parking Lot