Daytona, FL April 2026

The Issue INVESTMENT

INSURANCE CLAIM EXPERTS

The Art of the Long View

Investment. By definition, it is the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the expectation of a worthwhile return. In practice, it is so much more: a tangible act of hope. Whether it’s our community, our relationships, or our personal growth, the things we choose to invest in today inevitably shape the landscape of our tomorrow.

When I first came to the Daytona area, my goal was clear: I wanted to invest in this local economy. I believe deeply that a community is only as strong as its local businesses. When we support the "shop around the corner," we aren't just buying a product; we are ensuring our neighbors have jobs, our local families can enjoy a night out at a show, and our friends can retire comfortably right here at home.

Success for our local entrepreneurs means a more vibrant, enjoyable life for all of us. This is why I invest my own time in sharing the stories of the craftsmen, experts, and innovators in our backyard. We don't need to look to Orlando, Jacksonville, or the digital void of online shopping to find the best of the best—it is already right here.

Beyond the economy, investment takes many forms. We invest in our community when we volunteer, mentor a student, or stay informed about city planning. We invest in our future when we build financial security. And perhaps most importantly, we invest in our souls when we carve out quality time for the people we love. These are the "deposits" that pay the most immeasurable dividends.

While our individual portfolios may look different, the common thread is our commitment to a positive impact. This month’s issue explores the various ways we can invest in our lives—from nurturing our local roots to planning for a legacy that lasts.

Every investment is an act of commitment to a better future. As you flip through these pages, I hope you feel inspired to invest in the people, the places, and the dreams that matter most to you.

Here’s to a month of growth, connection, and meaningful returns.

Happy April!

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Thomas John (TJ) Filley tj.filley@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Oksana Zingman Filley oksana.filley@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Deb Lovett | deb.lovett@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Deb Lovett

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jonny Nomad Media / Daytona Regional Chamber, Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, Arts on Douglas, Art Spotlight, Deb Lovett, SkyRun, City Lifestyle, Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY, PUBLISHER

city scene

1: Guests arriving at the News-Journal Center for the opera Carmen by Bizet presented by DBSS 2: Daytona Beach Symphony Society (DBSS) pre-concert talk with Giorgio Lalov of Teatro Lirico D'Europa 3: Teatro Lirico D'Europa singing the famous “Smugglers' Quintet” from DBSS's presentation of Bizet's Carmen 4: City Lifestyle's Accelerate 2026 conference featuring keynote speaker Tim Tebow 5: TJ Filley, Publisher of Daytona City Lifestyle attending the Accelerate 2026 conference 6: Members of Ormond Beach's Chamber of Commerce at After Hours at Mimi's Original Art 7: Mimi's Original Art gallery director speaking at Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce After Hours event

8: Members of the Daytona Regional Chamber at the After Hours event at Starry Night Gallery 9: Daytona Regional Chamber's After Hours event hosted by Starry Night Gallery with Serra Doce 10: Artist Jim Russell at the Daytona Regional Chamber's After Hours event at Starry Night Gallery 11: The Daytona Regional Chamber's welcome committee at the After Hours event at Starry Night Gallery 12: Mike Sznapstajler and Linda Dubea at Daytona Regional Chamber's Annual Meeting 13: Mike Sznapstajler, Alan Florez, Samir Naran, and Kristin Weiss at Daytona Regional Chamber's Annual Meeting 14: Members of the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce at the 2026 Annual Meeting

business monthly

AdventHealth Daytona Beach a Top Florida Inpatient Rehabilitation Program

Newsweek recently recognized AdventHealth Daytona Beach as a top inpatient rehabilitation program, reflecting high-quality care access for people recovering from stroke, brain, or spinal injuries. “When someone begins rehabilitation, they’re often facing one of the biggest hills they’ll ever climb,” said Dr. David Sinclair, president/CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “Our role is to steady that climb." The unit has 32 beds and direct access to physicians plus the region’s largest group of board-certified rehabilitation nurses.

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Introducing Halifax Humane Society's New Animal Resource Center

The Halifax Humane Society announced the creation of a new Animal Resource Center to reflect their new focus on helping families keep their pets, not just taking animals in. Through the Animal Safety Net programs — including pet food assistance, training support, and access to veterinary care — the Center will help the non-profit to shift from a drop-off model to a problem-resolution approach that keeps pets where they belong: at home.

AdventHealth Medical Group Adds Nephrologist to Support Kidney Care

Dr. Mekraksakit, board-certified nephrologist, has joined the medical group and hospital at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “Our community continues to grow and age,” said Dr. David Sinclair, president/CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “By adding another nephrologist, we’re helping ensure patients can continue receiving coordinated, attentive care close to home.” Older adults are more likely to need ongoing kidney health care, and with Volusia County's higher-than-average median age, access and continuity are especially important.

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Invest Close to Home.

Lobby Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Drive Thru Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm

When you bank locally, your money stays local.

At Sunrise Bank, we keep your deposits working in Ormond Beach. They help fund local homes. Local businesses. Local growth. We’ve served this community for decades. And we’re invested in its future.

Jim. Janet. Laura. Your bankers. Your neighbors.

Maximizing Your Home Investment Value

HOW SKYRUN HELPS PROTECT, MANAGE, AND GROW HOMEOWNERS' ASSETS

Darnell Hatcher, owner of SkyRun Daytona

The Daytona area is a unique real estate market with a higher proportion of part-time vs full-time residents than many other parts of the country. While the area is a destination for many vacationers, homeowners here travel extensively outside the area. This combination of factors leads many homeowners to consider working with a qualified and trustworthy property management company.

SkyRun is a nationally recognized vacation home rental property management company with a new local franchisee who is bringing a portfolio of services to the area. The services available to homeowners are designed to deliver real estate investment income and to provide concierge-level experience for the homeowner when they are not in residence.

Darnell Hatcher of SkyRun has been visiting the Daytona Beach area his whole life. When it came time to retire from his 30+ year career in asset and facilities management with the City of Harrisburg in Pennsylvania, he knew exactly where he wanted to go. He hit the road in the Summer of 2025 and headed south. “I’m a road-tripper by nature. I’ve always enjoyed travel,” Darnell says. “I recognize the value of having someone trustworthy looking after my property while I am on the road. There’s nothing worse than coming home to find your new refrigerator’s ice machine has leaked all over the kitchen floor – yes, that has happened to me personally. I am dedicated to providing peace of mind to road trippers, snowbirds, and world travelers alike.”

Daytona’s SkyRun franchise is a family-run operation that Darnell shares with his oldest son, Darnell Jr., who was already living in the Daytona area. “I’m very family-oriented and, in fact, I have a lot of family down here. Settling in Daytona felt like coming home to me – I was

really looking forward to being near my son,” says Darnell. In preparation for the move, he decided to rent out his home in Pennsylvania instead of selling. “I started researching property management companies. I already had many highly qualified contractors to turn to, but I knew I needed someone local to personally oversee my property.”

Darnell realized this was exactly the kind of business he could run in his new hometown. He turned to an entrepreneur matchmaking consultant to test out the idea. “Owning a property management company was a natural extension of my professional experience.” After looking at the franchise opportunities found by the matchmaker, he knew SkyRun’s Daytona opportunity was exactly what he had been looking for. “Not only am I near family, I am literally in one of the most beautiful vacation areas I could imagine living. I have dreamt of driving A1A and living near the beach for so long – it’s great to finally relax and enjoy the ride.”

Darnell is a world traveler and knows many people turn to companies like Vrbo and Airbnb which are Online Travel Agents (OTAs) for short-term rentals. Homeowners who are thinking about renting out their homes look to SkyRun as the ultimate answer for a variety of reasons. “We list the homes we have under management through almost all the OTAs – currently about 65 – so we’re already expanding the options for homeowners who work with us vs. directly with one OTA.” People also turn to SkyRun because it’s a full turnkey operation so homeowners don’t have

“At this point in our lives, we’re ready for a more relaxed lifestyle —with a trusted team that makes travel and managing multiple homes easier.”

“Homeowners seeking meaningful investment returns on their property choose SkyRun for its full turnkey approachallowing them to go on vacation or spend time at their other homes without the demands of preparing, managing, or recovering from property rentals.”

to worry about their property when they go on vacation or head to another of their properties. A sampling of the full suite of high-end property management services include:

• Pre-rental and post-rental housekeeping and cleaning

• Compliance with local laws and regulations

• Appliance repairs and utility breakdown response

• Damage protection

• People management – renters and contractors

“With a national brand like SkyRun you can expect to see we have the systems in place to maximize homeowners’ revenue,” says Darnell. “You will ultimately work with Adam Fleckless who is our corporate director of owner satisfaction.” Adam provides corporate support in his role managing property owner relations and will walk potential clients through onboarding for a smooth experience.

Homeowners interested in testing out the waters can get a good idea of the rental income they could realize using SkyRun’s website-based INCOME ESTIMATOR tool

9 Costly Mistakes That Drain Retirement Funds

Many retirees lose thousands from simple tax missteps like:

❌ Tapping accounts too early

❌ Skipping Roth conversions

❌ Claiming Social Security too soon

❌ Poor Tax Diversification

Get your FREE resource Tax Efficient Retirement: 9 Mistakes That Could Drain Retirement Funds.

Includes: video, audiobook, e-book, and handouts to help you keep more of what you’ve saved.

ARTICLE BY DEB LOVETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARTS ON DOUGLAS, ART SPOTLIGHT

ART as INVESTMENT

A Guide to the Area's Most Collectible Art Works

The Daytona area offers numerous outdoor festivals, where even the most discerning weekender can find good food and live music. Many events spotlight visual artists, making them an inviting entry point for anyone curious about collecting. You can start small with a first purchase from a festival booth or refine your tastes by browsing museum collections and noting the styles you prefer.

Beyond the festival scene lies a robust creative community shaped by trailblazers and working artists. Daytona has become a true haven for creatives, with studio tours and monthly art walks that invite the public behind the scenes. For those ready to move from casual admirer to investor or collector, local galleries and professional advisors offer the next step.

AVENUES FOR COLLECTORS

Some hopeful treasure hunters scour garage sales and flea markets in search of the elusive masterpiece tucked away on the dollar table. If you’ve discovered an artist or style you genuinely love, though, the next step would be to develop a complementary collection. That’s when working with a gallery director, curator, consultant, or broker can make sense.

These professionals bridge the gap between artist and buyer, saving you time and research while broadening your exposure to quality work. Gallery owners, in particular, spend time understanding your preferences and then introduce you to artists whose work aligns with your aesthetic and budget. Over time, those relationships can open doors to early previews, private showings, and access to emerging talent before prices climb.

BUY LOW AND SELL HIGH: INVEST FOR VALUE –COLLECT FOR ENJOYMENT

Meghan Martin, gallery director at Arts on Douglas in New Smyrna Beach, vividly remembers the unknown artist who answered a call for entries for the gallery’s alt-space exhibition nearly a decade ago.

“We showed some of her pieces in our exhibition for emerging, contemporary Florida artists,” Martin says. “She immediately sold a couple of works.”

Today, she is a prolific artist represented by the gallery with a dedicated following of collectors who are notified as soon as new pieces are completed. “Her work sells as soon as—if not before—it makes it onto our walls,” Martin adds.

Stories like this illustrate art’s potential to appreciate in value over time, but seasoned professionals caution that appreciation should never be the sole motivation. Passion and knowledge remain essential.

Working with an art consultant or appraiser can dramatically expand your understanding of value, provenance, and market trends. Many advisors come from academic backgrounds in art history and maintain networks of experts across specialties. Having a trusted guide at your side during an auction or private negotiation can be invaluable.

“So much of art collecting is subjective and often an impulse buy,” says Mark Alexander, director of Art Services 2000 Ltd., a Palm Coast appraisal firm in business for more than 25 years. “It helps to have a consultant who has the deep research background and experience to point out potential issues before you complete a purchase.”

“Stories like these illustrate art’s potential to appreciate in value over time, but passion and knowledge remain essential.”

EXPERT ADVICE FOR SMART COLLECTING

Alexander recommends that serious collectors hire an experienced, credentialed fine art appraiser — especially when significant sums are involved. Look for someone with a fine art degree who is a fully accredited member in good standing with one of the three personal property appraisal organizations recognized by The Appraisal Foundation:

• International Society of Appraisers

• American Association of Appraisers

• American Society of Appraisers

Qualified appraisers adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and may be authorized by the IRS to conduct appraisals for tax-deductible charitable donations. In high-profile legal matters, appraisers have even worked alongside the U.S. Department of Justice to determine the value of seized art assets.

Collectors on a budget often gravitate toward numbered prints, which can provide access to respected artists at a lower price point; however, it pays to be cautious. Prints are sometimes misrepresented as originals. Understanding edition size, signatures, and authentication documents is essential when purchasing independently.

Another alternative for budget-minded investors is fractional ownership in highvalue artwork through SEC-regulated entities such as corporations, LPs, or LLCs. These arrangements allow investors to buy shares in significant works and typically generate Schedule K-1s for tax reporting. Fractional investing is attractive for diversifying a portfolio and reducing risk.

For art on your wall, though, we toured several area galleries displaying some of the area’s most collectible art with an eye to both established and emerging talent.

GALLERIES TO TOUR

Art League of Daytona Beach (ALDB) is the oldest arts organization in Volusia County, founded by Donald J. Emery and John A. Rogers to provide fellowship for fellow artists. It  will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year.

Emery studied at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the Fenway School of Illustration before working as an illustrator in Manhattan and Daytona Beach.

“It pays to be cautious and hire an experienced, credentialed art appraiser to guide you in your purchase, especially when significant sums are involved.”

Rogers, the son of one of the founders of the Art Institute of Chicago, was both a painter and architect; he designed the Peninsula Club building and numerous Daytona homes.

ALDB’s building at 433 S. Palmetto Avenue includes the Harris Gallery and two classrooms. It has nurtured many artists, including Jonathan Knight who took his first class there at age 12. After graduating from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale , Knight earned over 1,000 awards and has enjoyed international success. His popular “Beach” series reflects his foundation in Daytona where he recently returned to teach at ALDB where his classes routinely sell out. His work appears in museums, airports, schools, and corporate collections.

Art Spotlight at 67 W. Granada Blvd. in Ormond Beach is co-owned by Teri Althouse and Thays Franca. Franca opened her first gallery and studio in 2015. The two met during the “Art Battle” and the rest, as they say, is (art) history.

Today, Art Spotlight represents 26 artists and debuts a new front gallery exhibition each month. Franca helped launch the Ormond Beach Art Walk and was recognized by the City of Ormond Beach and Florida’s Secretary of State as Business Owner of the Year in 2024.

Arts on Douglas at 123 Douglas Street in New Smyrna Beach was established in 1996 by artist and Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) founder, Doris “Doc” Leeper and artist/benefactor, Ed Harris. Doc was an internationally recognized painter, sculptor, and visionary who was instrumental in creating the Canaveral National Seashore She founded the ACA as an artist-in-residence program. Doc envisioned the gallery as a commercial platform to promote Florida artists.

Harris was an engineer with a passion for making art. As President of Gulf + Western, he was instrumental in procuring the company’s art collection. He supported Doc’s effort as a philanthropist and provided additional downtown presence through the historic Harris House. The gallery and ACA have subsequently combined missions, resources, and programs.

Gallery500 at 1870 Victory Circle in One Daytona Center represents artists focused on motorsports as well as other contemporary art styles. They offer complimentary previews that digitally render artwork into a collector’s home or business space and also provide on-location services within a 30-mile radius. The gallery is home to the “Art Battle.”

Mimi’s Original Art at 1385 US-1 in Ormond Beach was founded by Michele Connors to provide a welcoming space for both artists and collectors. Representing more than 40 artists, the gallery features styles ranging from coastal and floral to impressionistic and abstract. In addition to fine art, Mimi’s offers handmade jewelry, home décor, and is a Jay Strongwater, Christopher Radko, and Mary Frances retailer.

AN ENDURING COLLECTION

Building an art collection is both personal and strategic. Just as you would hire an independent auto mechanic to balance your passion with knowledge, it’s smart to consult a qualified appraiser when considering a significant art purchase or sale. Ultimately, the most successful collections combine financial prudence with emotional connection. You want pieces that may appreciate over time—but that also bring daily enjoyment. If you are able to leave your heirs a valuable heirloom, a thoughtfully assembled collection will also provide lasting appreciation across generations.

“The most successful collections balance financial prudence with emotional connection. You want pieces that may appreciate over time—but that also bring daily enjoyment.”

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under realworld conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit:  InquiringChef.com

CITRUS, CARROT, AND CHICKPEA COUSCOUS

Sweet carrots and tart cranberries complement each other in every bite of this tangy couscous. It makes a light meal on its own but becomes a showstopper when spread on a platter and topped with braised meat, roasted cauliflower steaks, or seared tofu. If you want to add a little creaminess, serve the couscous with a spoonful of plain yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots

• one 15½-ounce can chickpeas

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling

• ½ cup orange juice

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup dry regular or whole wheat couscous

• ⅓ cup sliced almonds

• 1 lemon

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F

Step 2. Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 1-inch ovals. Drain and rinse the chickpeas

Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, cumin, ginger, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of the salt, coating evenly.

Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned veggies and chickpeas on it in an even layer.

Step 5. Bake until the carrots become tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.

Step 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the orange juice, water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.

Step 7. When the carrots become tender, sprinkle the almonds on them and continue baking until the almonds lightly toast, 4 to 5 more minutes.

Step 8. Juice the lemon for 1 tablespoon fresh juice.

Step 9. In the same mixing bowl used to season the veggies, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the cranberries.

Step 10. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the carrots, chickpeas, and almonds. Stir well to combine.

Step 11. Serve warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled. Just before serving, stir in the parsley.

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

habits for morning success

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day.  Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.

If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.

Be Your Own Barista:

One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drive-thru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.

Get Your Steps In:

An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.

Enjoy Some Breakfast:

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.

Read A Book:

Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

DISCOVER A NEW WAY TO LEARN AT ACADEMIC OASIS

Looking for flexible, engaging, and high-quality education options for your child? At Academic Oasis, we meet students where they are—whether they’re just starting their learning journey or preparing for high school success. Whether you’re homeschooling, supplementing, or accelerating, we’re here to support your child’s academic journey.

K–6 Homeschool Academy

A nurturing, hands-on learning environment that covers math, language arts, science, social studies, and art. Small class sizes. Big imagination.

Virtual Reality Courses (Grades 6–12)

Through our partnership with OptimaEd, middle and high school students can explore history, science, and more in fully immersive, self-paced or teacher-led VR experiences.

Tutoring (Grades K–12)

Customized one-on-one or small group tutoring in all core subjects—because every student deserves to succeed with confidence.

academicoasis.net | 386-256-7430 | B academicoasis.net | 1089 W Granada Blvd, Suite 4, Ormond Beach, FL 32174

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THREE DAY GAME SERIES APRIL 2ND - 4TH

Opening Day - Tortugas

Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 East Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 | 6:30 PM

It’s the 1st home game of the season for the Cincinnati Reds affiliate team, the Daytona Tortugas. The season opener against the Jupiter Hammerheads is the start of a three day home series and will kick off with fireworks on Thursday, a Hawaiian shirt giveaway Friday, and a concert t-shirt giveway on Saturday. Season runs through September.

APRIL 3RD

First Friday Art Walk Downtown Daytona Beach

Riverfront Shops, Daytona Beach | 5:00 PM

Attention art lovers! Downtown Daytona Beach invites you to stroll along Beach Street every first Friday of each month to enjoy “ArtWalk. Brought to you by Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach.

APRIL 4TH

First Saturday Ormond Art Walk

Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 | 3:00 PM

Celebrate art and culture in downtown Ormond Beach from 3-7pm EVERY first Saturday of the month, rain or shine. Many businesses along Granada Boulevard, including the Ormond Memorial Art Museum, have their doors open to showcase regional, national, and international artists. Courtesy of Ormond Mainstreet, the FREE AdventHealth shuttle stops at many Art Walk locations.

APRIL 11TH - 12TH

Daytona Beach Arts Fest 2026

Downtown Daytona Beach | 9:00 AM

The Daytona Beach Arts Festival is all day Saturday and Sunday along Beach Street between Orange Avenue and Bay Street. Hours Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Includes juried fine art, artisans, craftworks, chalk art competition, mini murals, live music, student art exhibit, kid’s activities, food and more! Free admission and plenty of free parking.

APRIL 18TH - 19TH

15th Annual Ormond Beach Celtic Festival

25 Riverside Dr, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 | 10:00 AM

This popular event is celebrating its 15th anniversary. Enjoy music, artisan crafts, a Highland Games, a Clan Village, and Celtic society celebrations. Parking is free, including free off-site parking at Ormond Beach City Hall, 22 S. Beach St. with free shuttle service. The Highland Games is a sanctioned event over 60 athletes expected to compete and demonstrate their skills.

APRIL 17TH - 26TH

Jeep Beach Week

Daytona Beach - various locations | 7:00 PM

Jeep Beach Week celebrates a passion for off-road family-friendly fun with numerous events building up to the main event weekend where Jeep enthusiasts can check out the latest products from 200+ Jeep vendors at Daytona International Speedway. Events get underway Friday 4/17 with an Are Friend Electric Concert and wrap with the Beach Parade Saturday 4/26 starting at 6:46am.