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Isn’t February one of the best months to live here? The weather is comfortable, the skies are clear, and downtown DeLand feels especially inviting this time of year. If you’ve been meaning to get out and enjoy this great town, browse the local shops, and my personal favorite, a backyard repit on a cool evening, this is the season for it.
Valentine’s Day is also right around the corner and it falls on a Saturday this year. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family dinner, or something simple at home, I hope it’s a gentle reminder to slow down and celebrate the people you love most.
This month’s issue was especially meaningful to put together because we had the chance to share the Nordmans’ story alongside DeLand High School football’s incredible season. It truly felt like the whole community showed up this year, and I’m grateful we get to capture moments like that in print and preserve them as part of DeLand’s story.
I also want to say a genuine thank you to the sponsors of DeLand Living. Your support is what allows us to publish each month and continue sharing local stories, while also connecting residents with trusted businesses right here in our community.
And if you own a business and want to reach high-value customers in DeLand and West Volusia, I’d love to talk. This magazine is designed to help strong local brands stay visible and grow through consistent, community-based marketing.
There’s a whole lot in town to show up for this month too, so be sure to mark your calendars and get out and enjoy it. Thank you for reading, and thank you for supporting the businesses that help make living in DeLand so special. I hope to see you around town!
Expert Contributors
■ FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Edward Jones Evin Lynch 386-337-7981 www.edwardjones.com/evin-lynch
■ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Jacob Heating and Air Conditioning
Robert Jacob 386-232-9282 www.jacobhac.com
■ HOME INSPECTOR
Home Team Inspection Service of DeLand
Je Schimming 386-267-7373 www.hometeam.com/deland
■ PRIVATE SCHOOL
St. Barnabas Episcopal School
Paul Garcia, Head of School 386-734-3005 www.sbesyes.org
To learn more about becoming an Expert Contributor, contact Denille Brownlee at dbrownlee@bestversionmedia.com or 407-923-7824
■ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE Lively Real Estate Tracy Snow 386-337-7981 www.tracysnow.com
■ SENIOR LIVING Alliance Community 386-734-4381 www.alliancecommunity.org
■ YOGA STUDIO Hot Yoga DeLand Kirsty Boyer & Heather McIver 386-469-9987 www.hotyogadeland.com
■ Be The Next Expert Your Business Name Your Name Phone number here www.yourwebsitehere.com
A CELEBRATION OF YOGA, WELLNESS, & MINDFULNESS IN THE HEART OF DELAND!
HomeTeam Inspection Service of DeLand Bringing Clarity and Con dence to Homeownership
Business Profile BY DENILLE BROWNLE
HOMETEAM INSPECTION Service of DeLand exists for one simple but meaningful reason: to bring clarity and confidence to one of life’s biggest moments. Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, especially when the inspection phase introduces questions and uncertainty. That is where owner Jeff Schimming and his team step in, offering thorough, efficient inspections paired with calm, clear communication that helps homeowners and buyers move forward with peace of mind.
Jeff came to home inspection after an unexpected transition out of big tech, a moment that pushed him to rethink what he wanted his next chapter to look like. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and encouragement from a close friend in real estate, Jeff found that home inspection aligned perfectly with both his skills and his values. Just over a year later, he has built a business rooted in service, education, and trust.
At HomeTeam of DeLand, the philosophy is simple: do the job well, treat people with care, and remove as much stress from the process as possible. The HomeTeam approach uses a systematic inspection method that allows multiple components of the home to be evaluated at once. This means inspections are completed efficiently without sacrificing detail, and clients receive prompt,
easy-to-understand reports they can actually use.
Jeff’s greatest inspiration comes from his father, who lived by the belief that someone has to do it, not for recognition or reward, but because the work mattered. That mindset carries into every inspection. Jeff especially enjoys the educational side of his role, helping clients and real estate agents understand what they are seeing and what truly matters. Teaching, he says, is one of his greatest gifts, and it shows in how he walks people through the process.
After relocating to DeLand, Jeff quickly recognized how deeply people care about this community. He chose DeLand intentionally and respects the pride longtime residents have in their town. That appreciation shows in how he serves his clients and builds relationships.
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys life with his four year old goldendoodle, Adella, and embraces what he calls being a resident tourist, exploring local springs, fishing spots, and antique shops. He also loves baking and spending time with family playing softball.
Guided by a strong belief in kindness without expectation, Jeff and HomeTeam Inspection Service of DeLand are building trust, one home inspection at a time.
The Nordmans: More Than a Game
WHEN FOOTBALL BECOMES FAMILY, AND A TOWN BECOMES EVEN CLOSER
BY DENILLE BROWNLEE | PHOTOS BY DREAMSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO
ON A FALL Friday night in DeLand, you feel it before you see it. Stadium lights in the distance, the band warming up, and that familiar sense that the whole town is in the same place for the same reason. This year, that feeling turned electric as DeLand High School made a memorable run toward the state title, pulling the community closer with every big stop, every long drive, and every hard-earned win.
For the Nordman family, the season was more than an incredible stretch of football. It was a full-circle moment of family, faith, and a team bond that has been years in the making.
Michael Nordman is a third-generation DeLandite who has always called this city home. Marie was born in New Jersey and moved to DeBary at 11. She jokes that she is not really a Yankee “because although I was born in the North, I was born again in the South.” Together, they have built a life rooted in DeLand, surrounded by traditions, neighbors, and community ties.
Their story began in high school at Deltona Christian School, where they met sophomore year. They were part of a Christmas program together, and Michael forgot his lines. Marie remembers it clearly. Life has never been perfect or scripted, but they have walked through it together with joy, grit, and faith.
Michael became a real property, probate, and trust attorney. He is Board Certified in Real Estate Law and is also a CPA. Marie was a mom first and also served as Michael’s paralegal. Their family story includes a chapter that shaped everything that came after. In December 1987, Marie was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins B-Cell lymphoma and began chemo and radiation. Michael stepped away from school to care for her alongside her family, and they were told children might not be an option.
They were married in December 1988 and kept moving forward one step at a time. After seven years of marriage, they found out they were expecting. “We found out at Christmas,” Marie says. Their daughter Mikaela arrived in August 1995. The twins, Tucker and Charles, came in November 1996. Then, twelve years after the twins, Gardner completed the crew, adding a fresh spark to the family and a new season of cheering, carpools, and memories.
All four of their children were born at the hospital in DeLand, and all four attended George Marks Elementary, DeLand Middle, and DeLand High School. The Nordmans’ story is not just connected to DeLand. It is formed by it.
Their oldest, Mikaela, attended DeLand High’s International Baccalaureate program and played varsity tennis. She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida and later graduated from UF Levin College of Law. Today, she lives in Palm Coast and works as a family law attorney in DeLand.
Tucker was a dual enrollment student at DHS and a varsity football quarterback, then played football for the Florida Gators and graduated from UF. He now lives in DeLand and works as a superintendent at AJAX Construction. Tucker and his wife, Katie, are newly married, and the Nordmans are thrilled to welcome her to the family. Katie is a nurse practitioner, and together they are building their life close to home in the same community that helped shape Tucker.
Charles was also a dual enrollment student at DHS, playing varsity football as a receiver and competing in weightlifting. Like his brother, he played football at UF and graduated from the University of Florida. He now lives in Tampa and works as a superintendent at Barr & Barr Construction. Charles and his wife, Gabby, are raising two daughters, Sivan and Sloane, and Gabby is a registered nurse.
Then there is Gardner, a DeLand High School junior and the quarterback of the varsity football team. He is involved in Leadership, SGA, and Renaissance, takes classes at Daytona State College, and loves volunteering at community events. Gardner has always been drawn to sports, including basketball, golf,
baseball, and football, and he hopes to attend UF and UF Law one day.
A favorite family detail is that the twins insisted on choosing their own names when they were little. “They said it wasn’t fair that anyone else got to pick out their names,” Marie says. From age four until high school graduation, Tucker went by Hunter and Charles went by Fisher. Around town, plenty of people still smile when they hear that story.
This year, the DeLand High School football team gave the city a season to hold onto. The wins were exciting, and the run toward the state title brought a fresh wave of pride to DeLand. But for the families living it week to week, it was also about what happened away from the scoreboard.
For the Nordmans, one of the most meaningful moments came when Gardner and several of his teammates were baptized this season. It was a milestone that marked what kind of team this really was. Not just talented, but united, grounded, and growing together.
Marie describes this group as a special team, and it is easy to see why. Many of the players have been together since they were six years old. They played Pop Warner, came up through JV, and now line up as varsity starters. Years of shared practices and growing up side by side can turn teammates into brothers. And if you ever want to spot Gardner’s biggest fans, look for the banner in Section G4 at home games; a proud nod to
his nickname, “G4,” for Gardner and his jersey number 4. This season, that bond showed, and when DeLand High made its run, it felt like the whole city showed up. Friday nights weren’t just games, they were family reunions under the lights.
The Nordmans also have a unique way of preserving it all. Mikaela comes to every game and event, and she brings one of her best friends so they can capture great still shots and videos. After each game, Mikaela puts together a highlight video for the family to keep. It is a gift, week after week, and a time capsule they will treasure long after the season ends.
When the Nordmans are not at the stadium, you will often find them doing what so many locals love to do: soaking up downtown DeLand. They love the restaurants and the way a simple night out can turn into catching up with friends.
DeLand Eatery is one of their favorite places to grab a meal. Some nights it is meeting friends at The Elusive Grape. Other times it is ice cream at Pat & Toni’s, especially when everyone is together.
They also love the local shops and the pride that comes with them. Lately, they have been “digging” Empire’s Emporium and Vintage DeLand for their unique items, plenty of DeLand gear, and their support of DeLand High Football. And if there is a parade rolling through downtown, there is a good chance the Nordmans are watching, waving, and sometimes taking part. Homecoming, Veteran’s Day, Christmas, and the Dog Parade are all favorites.
When football season slows down, the Nordmans’ life stays full. They enjoy offshore fishing, hosting Nordman Fish Fries whenever they can, and keeping family traditions alive. Duck hunting is also part of their family history, and the boys look forward to it each season, with the girls joining in sometimes too.
Their roots run deep in
agriculture, especially the citrus industry and honey bees. Several Nordmans own or have owned orange groves, and some have beehives. Michael’s grandfather, J.B. Nordman, served as the State Bee Inspector, a detail that feels like a piece of old Florida history tucked into their family story.
They also live in a home with a story. Their house sits in a historic subdivision and was built by Francis Whitehair, an infamous character in DeLand history who, for a short time, served as Undersecretary of the Navy under President Truman. Their home even has two real Navy ship portholes for windows. In a twist that makes them smile, only attorneys have owned the home over the years.
The Nordmans have always shown up for DeLand, not just on Friday nights. Michael served as Vice President of Habitat for Humanity, and Marie volunteered at George Marks Elementary. Together, they coached DeLand Pop Warner and DeLand Little League. These days, they are active in the DeLand Century Club, supporting DHS football and staying connected to the programs that shape young lives.
That is what makes this season fit the Nordmans so well. It was not only a football run. It was a reminder of what happens when people commit to each other over time, and when a community chooses to rally around something good.
This year’s Bulldogs run gave DeLand a shared story filled with excitement and pride. For the Nordmans, it also highlighted what they have built for years: a close family, deep local roots, faith that has carried them through, and the joy of watching Gardner and his teammates chase something big together. Because in DeLand, football can be about more than football. Sometimes it becomes a place where a whole town feels like family, and that is the heartbeat of DeLand Living.
DO YOU KNOW A NEIGHBOR WHO HAS A STORY TO SHARE? //
Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at rgarrison@bestversionmedia.com
Fri., Jan. 23 – Sun., Feb. 8
Disney’s Alice in Wonderland JR.
@ ATHENS THEATRE
Take a trip down the rabbit hole with this family-friendly stage production, packed with colorful characters, music, and plenty of whimsical fun for all ages.
Times: Thu–Sat 7:30pm • Sun 2:30pm
Cost: Prices Vary www.athensdeland.com
Thu., Jan. 29 – Sat., Feb. 14
DIRTcar Nationals
@ VOLUSIA SPEEDWAY PARK
Kick off racing season with three weeks of dirt-track action at the “World’s Fastest HalfMile,” featuring top short-track divisions and multiple race nights across the event.
Times: Gates typically open at 4pm (varies by night, see schedule).
Cost: Prices Vary dirtcarnationals.com
February 2026
Fri., Jan. 30 – Sun., Feb. 1
6th Annual Berkeley LaBaw Memorial Speck Fishing Tournament
@ HIGHLAND PARK FISH CAMP
A weekend tournament honoring DeLand native Willis Berkeley LaBaw Jr. with a portion of proceeds benefiting Mighty River Recovery and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
Captains meeting begins Friday at 5pm, with tournament fishing Saturday and Sunday.
Enjoy a full weekend of bonsai displays, presentations, workshops, raffles, and a Sunday auction, featuring guest artists Randy Bennett and Larry Naedler.
Artist Lecture with Jay Henderson @ HAND ART CENTER
Join artist and curator Jay Henderson for a lecture connected to his site-specific exhibition exploring “Anti-Mapping Architecture,” featuring his newest work alongside selected pieces by Oscar Bluemner from the Vera Bluemner Kouba Collection.
Times: 2–3pm
Cost: Free www.handartcenter.org
Sat., Feb. 14
Mardi Gras Dog Parade & Festival
@ DOWNTOWN DELAND
DeLand’s most colorful canine celebration returns as the
Krewe of Amalee brings costumed pups (and their people) down Woodland Boulevard for a family-friendly Mardi Gras parade, followed by a festival on Georgia Avenue.
Times: Lineup 8–10am • Parade 11am • Festival approx. 12:30–3pm
Cost: Free to attend (fees apply to participate in contests/ parade). www.delanddogparade.com
Fri., Feb. 20
Art for All
@ MUSEUM OF ART - DELAND
Enjoy free museum admission all day, plus a free guided art activity from 4–7pm. Bring your family, invite friends, or make it a date night. The Museum Store will also be open.
Times: 4–7pm (free admission all day)
Cost: Free www.moartdeland.org
Sat., Feb. 21
2026 Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala
@ ARTISAN ALLEY GARAGE
A “Night on Bourbon Street” fundraiser hosted by the Rotary Club of Downtown DeLand, benefiting BeginAgain Children’s Grief Center and other local Rotary charities. Expect New Orleans-inspired eats and drinks, live music, and fun touches like a photo booth and more. (21+ only.)
Times: 7–10pm
Cost: $125 General Admission www.ddrotary.org
Wed., Feb. 25
Stetson Jazz Ensemble
@ SECOND STAGE THEATRE (MUSEUM OF ART-DELAND)
Enjoy an evening with the Stetson Jazz Ensemble, led by director Dan Johnson, in an intimate downtown setting. Program to be announced.
Times: 7:30–9:30pm
Cost: $15 General Admission
•$5 Youth (13–17) / College Student (with ID) • Free with Stetson ID
One of the biggest motorcycle rallies of the year returns for its 85th anniversary, featuring scenic rides, bike shows, outdoor concerts, and plenty of action around Volusia County, including events at Daytona International Speedway. Times: Times vary by event
Cost: Varies (many events are free; some are ticketed) www.officialbikeweek.com
Sat., Feb. 28
Wild Wild West Charity Event
@ TOMMY LAWRENCE ARENA (VOLUSIA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS)
Dust off your boots for one of DeLand’s biggest parties. Admission includes dinner catered by Sonny’s BBQ, all-you-candrink draft beer, live music and entertainment, line dancing, silent auction, mechanical bull riding, casino gambling, and more. (21+ only.)
DeLand Bike Rally @ DOWNTOWN DELAND (100 N WOODLAND BLVD.)
On the first Saturday of Daytona Bike Week, motorcycle enthusiasts roll into Historic
Downtown DeLand for one of the area’s biggest ride-in rallies, featuring live music, vendors, and plenty of shopping and dining throughout downtown. Times: 9am–5pm
Cost: Free www.mainstreetdeland.org
Sat., Feb. 28
Victoria Gardens Women’s Club Gala
@ 1001 GARDEN CLUB DR.
Celebrate 20 years of VGWC at this glamorous evening featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the patio, a seated dinner with live auctions, and dancing to close out the night. Benefiting the Neighborhood Center and the Family Renew. Times: 5:30–11:00 PM
Tickets: $100 www.vgwc.org
Tour Like a Pro at Alliance Community in DeLand
SUBMITTED BY MELISSA LONG
YOU’RE FINALLY READY to tour a senior living community—but you’re not quite sure what to ask. That’s completely normal. Touring a community is an important step, and knowing the right questions can help you feel confident and informed.
At Alliance Community in DeLand, we believe an informed visitor is a comfortable visitor. To help you get the most out of your tour, we’ve answered a few of the most common questions seniors and families ask—so you can start your visit feeling prepared and empowered.
What Is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)?
Alliance Community is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), offering a full continuum of care all in one location. Residents typically begin their journey in independent living, enjoying maintenance-free homes and beautifully maintained grounds cared for by our full-time team.
As care needs change, residents can transition seamlessly to higher levels of care without paying an additional entrance fee. We support aging in place and encourage couples to remain together whenever possible. We call our CCRC a LifePlan.
What Levels of Care Are Offered on Campus?
Alliance Community provides multiple living and care options, including: 69 single-family homes and villas
I have lived at Alliance Community for over six years, and they have grown to meet my needs and expectations.
-Captain Wendell Phillips Scenic Tour Guide and Alliance Community Resident
46 one-bedroom and efficiency apartments
Two assisted living facilities
A 5-star Health and Rehabilitation Center
Skilled nursing care
All services are conveniently located on our campus to ensure continuity, comfort, and peace of mind.
How Long Has Alliance Community Served DeLand?
Alliance Community has proudly served DeLand and the surrounding area for over 71 years. Founded in 1954 on just 10 acres, we have grown to 25 acres to meet the evolving needs of our residents while maintaining our commitment to quality care.
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AProudPast. AVibrantFuture.
At Alliance Community in DeLand, Florida, we’ve been building a future for seniors for over 71 years—where meaningful connections and comprehensive care go hand-in-hand. Our forward thinking, family-style approach, combined with full access to services and amenities—empowers every resident to create a lifestyle that reflects not only who they are today, but who they aspire to be tomorrow.
Scan the QR code or call to schedule a personal tour.
Is Transportation Provided?
Yes. Alliance Community offers transportation to shopping, medical appointments, and scheduled events. Transportation to additional destinations is also available, with fees clearly outlined in the information packet you’ll receive during your tour.
Is Therapy Available On Site?
Absolutely. Alliance Community has its own Rehabilitation Center, offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy. All therapists are Alliance Community employees, ensuring consistent, high-quality care. Independent living residents may receive outpatient therapy on campus with a physician’s order.
Assisted living residents can receive therapy right in their residence.
What Does Daily Life Look Like?
Life at Alliance Community is active, engaging, and fulfilling. Residents receive a monthly calendar featuring activities, events, and community news. Amenities include:
•A chapel with worship services and Bible studies
•A heated pool and spa
•Social, wellness, and recreational activities
• Residents can also enjoy outings to downtown DeLand, known for its charming shops and diverse dining options.
Touring Alliance Community is more than just seeing a place—it’s about envisioning your future. Asking the right questions helps ensure you find a community where you can live fully.
These are just a few of the questions we answer before you tour our community. We also encourage you to ask about dining options, wellness programs for Independent Living, costs and what’s included, contract terms, and staffing ratios for each level of care.
We would love the opportunity to show you and your family our beautiful community. Please call today to schedule a tour and enjoy lunch on us at 386-736-1814, or visit our website at alliancecommunity.org.
Junior Service League of DeLand: A Legacy of Service and a Night Out that Gives Back
BY JENNIFER VENTO
FOR GENERATIONS, The Junior Service League of DeLand has quietly helped neighbors in practical, personal ways, bringing women together around one goal: serve our community well.
JSL DeLand was formed in 1929 with a simple mission: Women and Children. Nearly a century later, our focus and heart on supporting local children and families through volunteerism and community-funded giving still drives our work across DeLand and West Volusia.
Today, members serve through hands-on projects that meet real needs, including Christmas Surprise, Diaper Drive, Duffle Drive, Dressed for Success, Fuel the Families, and more. Every box packed and every delivery made helps strengthen local families and the agencies that support them.
One of the biggest ways we fund these efforts is through our Wild Wild West Charity Event, led by Co-Chairs Cecelia Earl and Melissa Meeks. Wild Wild West is a 21+ evening at the Tommy Lawrence Arena on February 28, 2026, with dinner, entertainment, line dancing, and a silent auction, all supporting JSL’s projects.
We’re also excited to recognize our Grand Marshal, Alexa Hill, who has helped build momentum for this year’s fundraising, including hosting her Southern Soirée. This beautiful event was a wonderful celebration of community, showcasing the work and creativity of local DeLand artists
and vendors throughout the entire event. “I’m honored to be this year’s Grand Marshal for the Wild Wild West charity event supporting the Junior Service League of DeLand,” Alexa shared. She’s passionate about sparking excitement for JSL’s rich history of helping and serving this great community, and inviting others to be part of it. As she put it, “The JSL is more than just a club as it connects women who share a heart for service and building up our incredible community. They do such a thoughtful job of keeping sustainers involved and recognized long after they serve.” She says the Grand Marshal role has brought joy through lasting friendships.
Tickets are still available for this fun event, and if you can’t attend, you can still support the cause by reaching out to Alexa at alexa@rchill.com. You’ll find the link to purchase tickets in the DeLand Living Calendar of Events section. And if you’ve ever felt the pull to get involved, we’d love for you to learn more about joining JSL DeLand and helping carry this legacy forward.
Love Looks Good in DeLand
BY DENILLE BROWNLEE
VALENTINE’S DAY is a sweet chance to celebrate love, but the best kind of love is built in the ordinary days too. Whether you’re newly dating, newly married, raising kids, juggling busy careers, or learning a new rhythm as empty nesters, every season has its own challenges and its own opportunities to love each other well.
Start simple: pay attention. A small question like “How are you really doing?” can do more than a fancy gift. Try a quick habit this week: each day, name one thing you appreciate about your spouse or partner and say it out loud. Specific beats generic every time.
Valentine’s doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. A great DeLand date can be as easy as picking a spot downtown, sharing a meal, and lingering a little longer than usual. One of my downtown favorites is BakeChop, which somehow works for just about any kind of date. Grab breakfast before the day gets busy, slip away for lunch, or make it dinner and turn it into a true night out. Add a stroll through your favorite downtown spots, or split dessert somewhere and don’t rush home.
If life is packed, make it a “micro-date” at home: phones off, a favorite meal, and a short walk around the neighborhood after. Even 30 minutes of undistracted time can reset the tone of a whole week.
If you’re in a harder season, keep the goal realistic. You don’t need a perfect night. You need small steps toward each other. Choose one thing to lighten your partner’s load this week. Handle the errand. Take the late-night cleanup. Write a note. These are quiet ways of saying, “I’m with you.” And in DeLand, where community and tradition matter, celebrating love is about more than one day on the calendar. It’s choosing each other well, showing up again and again, and building a home that feels like a safe place to land.
Managing Risk At Di erent Stages of Life
BY EVIN LYNCH, EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR
AS AN INVESTOR, risk is always part of the journey – but how you manage it can depend on where you are in life.
Early in your career, you can invest for growth and take on more risk, knowing you have time to recover from market downturns.
In midlife, with goals like retirement and college savings, it’s generally time to balance growth with stability.
Near retirement, preserving wealth becomes key – though growth still matters to help keep up with inflation.
And in retirement, you may want to reduce risk, but not eliminate it entirely. A balanced mix in your portfolio and a smart income withdrawal strategy can help your money last.
And while you’ll seek balance based on your life stage, even a diversified portfolio doesn’t fully protect against loss.
Risk tolerance changes over time, and your strategy should too. Staying informed and flexible can help you better navigate market volatility and stay on track toward maintaining long-term financial success.
This content was was provided by Edward Jones for use by Evin Lynch, your Edward Jones Financial Advisor at 121 Victoria Commons Blvd. Suite 103, DeLand, FL 32724.
A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR CITY OF DELAND
Iam thrilled to write to you as we look forward to one of DeLand’s most beloved and uniquely joyful traditions, the Krewe of Amalee Mardi Gras Dog Parade.
This parade is more than a festive day filled with wagging tails, colorful costumes, and laughter; it is a true gift to our community. Year after year, it brings neighbors together, supports local causes, and reminds us of the simple happiness found in connection, creativity, and shared celebration. Events like this are what make DeLand such a special place to call home.
This year’s parade holds special meaning for me personally. My family has been part of the Krewe of Amalee parade for the past 17 years, and through those years we have made countless memories walking alongside friends, watching children grow up in the parade, and seeing how this event continues to bring joy to people of all ages. What began as a fun community gathering has become a cherished tradition woven into the fabric of our lives and our city.
I am deeply grateful to the organizers, volunteers, participants, and supporters who work tirelessly to make this event possible each year. Your dedication and heart are what keep DeLand vibrant, welcoming, and full of life.
I encourage everyone to come out, cheer loudly, celebrate safely, and enjoy this wonderful tradition. Thank you for continuing to make DeLand a community rooted in togetherness, generosity, and joy.
With gratitude and pride, Mayor Chris Cloudman
Cranberry and Pistachio Brie in Phyllo
BY RENEE GARRISON
A PRETTY AND tasty addition to your Valentine party (without any artificial red dye or food coloring!) It’s quick and easy too, so you can spend more time with your sweetie.
• Cut the brie in half horizontally. Spread cranberry sauce over bottom half, sprinkle with 2 Tbs pistachios.
• Place the other circle of brie on top, rind side up.
• Lay a sheet of phyllo on work surface and spray with cooking spray. Repeat using all 4 sheets.
•Place brie in the middle of the phyllo.
• Fold the phyllo around the brie, spraying each time you fold.
•Place seam side down on baking sheet.
• Spray top and sides with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining pistachios.
• Bake 10 to 12 minutes until phyllo is crisp and lightly browned.
•Serve with your favorite crackers.
DeLand Real Estate Update
FOR
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
