The Manatee Messenger Bringing you the latest news about West Volusia's
special events, area attractions and lodging promotions
June 2011
It's All About Food!
You would think that a manatee weighing around 1,200 pounds wouldn't have a problem staying warm. In fact, they don't have the blubber that other marine mammals do, and with their slow metabolism they don't generate a lot of body heat. That's why they have to eat up to ten percent of their body weight every day. For a typical adult manatee that equates to more than 100 pounds. It's hard to imagine eating over 200 heads of lettuce daily!
Volusia is a fast growing young manatee who spends about half his day sleeping and playing while the rest of his time is focused on eating. He is learning to use the nails located on the end of his flippers to dig up plants growing on the bottom of the river. His mother Alice showed him how to accomplish that while she foraged for food to share with him. Remember that we told you Volusia was being weaned? Alice no longer allows Volusia to nurse, especially now that he has developed most of his teeth. An interesting fact about manatee teeth is that they are all molars and will continuously be replaced for their entire life. They don't have front teeth, just "marching" molars. As a front molar wears down from chewing on fibrous plants, it is shed and the tooth behind it "marches" forward to replace it while a new one emerges from the back.
The St. Johns River has an abundant supply of green vegetation growing along its banks to provide Volusia , Pal and Duffy plenty to eat. Volusia seems to like the water hyacinth the best. Maybe he is attracted to the fragrant purple flowers!
Next month: Alice and Volusia Take a Trip
Above Photo: Volusia the Manatee with mother Alice
Courtesy of Amy Teague, USGS
Volusia's Adventures is an ongoing series of entertaining articles that illustrate typical manatee activities based on known behaviors and traits. Follow Volusia each month on his journey along the magnificent and historic St. Johns River to see what exciting situations he gets into.
June 24th from 6 - 9 p.m.
Featuring Fourth Friday in Downtown DeLand
Artisan Alley Street Fair & DeLand Art Walk
That's right! We'll be revisiting downtown DeLand's Fourth Friday event in June for the next Foursquare Friday. So mark your calendars for June 24th and join us for all the festivities from 6-9 p.m.!
Artisan Alley Street Fair - Enjoy groovy music as you stroll through the shops along Artisan Alley every Fourth Friday. The Alley also hosts a variety of arts and crafts vendors selling their wares. Fine wine and a wide selection of beers will be available at the Nest. To bring in the summer season, this month's event will feature the tropical sounds of a steel drum band. Artisan Alley is located off New York Avenue, one block west of Woodland Boulevard behind the Beacon Newspaper building. Admission is free! 6-10 p.m. For more information, call Rob at the Nest: 386-450-0200 or email mynest@earthlink.net . DeLand Art Walk - This is a self-guided tour of downtown DeLand that highlights more than two dozen venues displaying works by Central Florida artists each Fourth Friday of the month. Pick up a map of participating shops, restaurants and galleries at any stop along the route. For more information, contact Sherrill at the Great Escape Gallery: 386-740-7777. www.delandartwalk.com Earn the Warhol Badge - Check in on foursquare at a total of 10 different venues categorized as "galleries" to earn the Warhol Badge. There are 4 such galleries included in the DeLand Art Walk during Fourth Friday, and others can be visited during their regular hours. (See our West Volusia Badges Chart for all the Warhol Badge gallery venues.) Why not get a head start on visiting some of our wonderful art galleries between now and then?
Try for the Swarm Badge - Just check in to the foursquare venue called "Downtown DeLand" anytime during the three-hour event. A minimum of 50 foursquare users must check in during this time to unlock this coveted badge, so spread the word to all your friends!
Get foursquare Discounts - We have already signed up several downtown shops and restaurants that will be offering discounts just for foursquare players that night, with more coming soon. They include: Bill & Frank's Brickhouse Grill, De La Vega Restaurante, Dressed Boutique, Great Escape Gallery, Muse Bookshop, Nest, Newfangled Modern Market and Wolfe's Gallery. We're even working on some accommodations specials, so stay tuned to our website for all the Fourth Friday foursquare deals in Downtown DeLand!
Foursquare is a fun and interactive smartphone app that can lead you to unforgettable experiences throughout West Volusia! We invite you come stay with us, check in on foursquare, and explore everything that makes our region truly special! Be our friend on foursquare and stay tuned for news about the next Foursquare Friday in July!
Countdown to Speed
Volusia County, Florida is your destination for speed on and off the track! The stars of NASCAR will soon head to Daytona International Speedway to celebrate the Independence Day weekend. First up on Friday, July 1, the young guns of the Nationwide Series will face off against Sprint Cup Series drivers in the Subway Jalapeno 250 Race. Then Saturday evening, Sprint Cup Series drivers will hit the asphalt again for the Coke Zero 400 Race . Four-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Martina McBride will ignite the track during Saturday's pre-race concert. And after the race, fans will not want to miss the magnificent fireworks display!
Just a few days after the race, the retirement of NASA's Space Shuttle Program will be marked by the much anticipated final launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis from Kennedy Space Center, currently scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2011 at 3:40 p.m. With vantage points about 30 miles away, the Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and West Volusia County areas have plenty of prime viewing locations to feel the excitement of this momentous event.
So come to Volusia County for the Coke Zero 400 and stay for the Space Shuttle Atlantis launch. While you are here, explore our diverse collection of attractions. We have lots of great accommodations to choose from conveniently located along major Central Florida highways, so connecting your experiences is easy.
More Hot Deals & Packages
Coke Zero 400 Lodging Deals
Welcome race fans! The West Volusia County region is just minutes from Daytona International Speedway, the beaches and Central Florida attractions. Our special lodging deals offer multiple nights at discounted rates, so plan on coming early or extending your stay, and experience all there is to see and do in beautiful West Volusia!
West Volusia Golf Escape - SUMMER SALE
From Just $75pp per night! Tee up for some of the best golfing in Central Florida with great priced golf packages! Golfers visiting West Volusia will be pleasantly surprised to find themselves walking championship courses with rolling hills and lush fairways more characteristic of the Carolinas. Price includes one 18-hole round of golf, cart and one bag of range balls per night stay as well as accommodations (based on double occupancy) and breakfast. In addition, each golfer receives a free eco-friendly golf gift and a chance to win a Wilson golf bag.
St. Johns River Fishing Escapes
The West Volusia section of the St. Johns River, a federally designated American Heritage River, boasts some of the best fishing Florida has to offer. Largemouth black bass, warmouth, bluegill, specks, stripers and catfish abound. Our professional and knowledgeable guides will show you a great time. Not only is the fishing terrific here, but a day out on the soothing sun dappled waters of the majestic St. Johns surrounded by lush landscapes and native wildlife will refresh your spirit!
Featured Accommodations
Hotel/Motel: Cassadaga Hotel, Cassadaga - The Cassadaga Hotel is a charming, turn of the century escape from the hectic pace of everyday life. Come visit this unique community of psychics and spiritualists for a meditative retreat or romantic getaway. Readings, Reiki healing, acupuncture, massage therapy, a day spa, gift shop and gallery are all available right on site. 386-228-2323 www.cassadagahotel.net
Bed & Breakfast: Alling House B&B, Orange City - Relax in comfort at this Victorian-style historic home with rooms in the main house as well as fully equipped themed cottages. Enjoy some quiet time under the shady tree canopy where you might spy some local wildlife that frequently visit. With the St. Johns River and Blue Spring State Park just three miles away, take advantage of complimentary kayak and bicycle rentals. 386-775-7648 www.allinghousebb.com
Riverfront: Parramore's Family Resort, Volusia/Astor - Nestled at the edge of the Ocala National Forest, Parramore's is a nature lovers' paradise located just off Highway 40 halfway between Ocala and Ormond Beach. Kick back in the shade of magnificent live oaks and enjoy world-class bass, catfish and brim fishing. Bring your boat and put in at the ramp on premises. Enjoy cruising to Silver Glen Springs or Salt Springs. Cabins and RV sites are available, with a 10% discount for Florida Camper Club members. 386-749-2721 www.parramores.com
Campground: Lake Monroe Park, DeBary - Overlooking the magnificent St. Johns River and Lake Monroe, this park offers RV and tent camping with a spectacular view of nature and excellent fishing from nearby piers. Amenities include a boat ramp, volleyball court and picnic areas. There are also trailhead facilities for the Spring to Spring Trail, which leads to nearby Gemini Springs Park and DeBary Hall Historic Site. 386-668-3825 www.volusia.org/parks/LkMonroe.htm
Featured June Events
The temperatures are starting to climb as summertime approaches. June is the perfect time to get out and soak up some sunshine at our many parks, trails and outdoor attractions. Want to beat the heat? Stop into one of our art museums or historical sites for cool experiences. And there are always lots of family-friendly festivals and activities happening in West Volusia! Below are a few highlights from our Calendar of Events . With so much to see and do, it's the perfect time to plan a vacation or weekend getaway. Experience our charming, small-town Florida communities, unique shopping, delightful restaurants and affordable accommodations.
June - August: Summer Youth Camps - This summer there are endless opportunities for children and young adults to enjoy an array of summer learning programs in West Volusia. From art and history to science and recreation, we've got it all! Visit our special Youth Activities Calendar Pages for complete details and links.
Continuing through July 10: "Through the Collector's Eye" Art Exhibit, Florida Museum for Women Artists, DeLand - Artwork from five important Florida collectors in a variety of media and styles will be on display and include insight from the collectors on how they got started and how they select art. 386-873-2976 www.floridamuseumforwomenartists.org
June 1 - 30: "Florida's Legacy" June Art Exhibit, DeBary Hall Historic Site, DeBary - DeBary Hall will feature the artwork of painter Joanelle Mulrain in June. Her exhibition titled "Florida's Legacy" includes a variety of styles inspired by Florida's landscapes, animals and historic sites. Subjects include Stetson University, Cedar Point and the Kingsley Plantation in Jacksonville. In addition to paintings, her art includes ink drawings and photography. 386-668-3840 www.debaryhall.com
June 4 - July 7: "Lift Every Voice: Art of Anthony Armstrong" Art Exhibit, African American Museum of Art, DeLand - "Lift Every Voice," the art of Anthony Armstrong will be on exhibit at the African American Museum of the Arts in DeLand. The opening reception will take place on Saturday, June 4th, featuring live Jazz and light refreshments. 386-736-4004 www.africanmuseumdeland.org
June 4: National Trails Day Celebration, DeBary Hall Historic Site, DeBary - Celebrate National Trails Day at DeBary Hall Historic Site. Activities will include children's games and informational displays, children's bicycle helmet giveaway starting at 9:30 a.m., minor bicycle repair and advice on finding the perfect bike. Participants may take a virtual tour of the St. Johns River in DeBary Hall's Imagidome Theater at Noon. There will be guided outdoor experiences including on- and off-road bicycle tours, a nature hike and paddling adventure. Following the celebration, at 2:00 p.m. there will be a free lecture in DeBary Hall's stables about Volusia County's multi-use trails. 386-668-3840 www.debaryhall.com
June 5 - July 14: "Men Painting Men" Art Exhibition, Gateway Center for the Arts, DeBary - "Men Painting Men" will feature original art works in a variety of media by male artists where the male figure is the subject. This show is being curated by Josh Garrick from Millenia Art Gallery in Orlando. The opening reception will be on June 5th. 386-668-5553 www.gatewaycenterforthearts.org
June 10 - August 21: Three Summer Art Exhibits - "Habits and Habitat," "John Wilton's M&M Art Panels," and "Florida Book Art," Museum of Florida Art, DeLand - Three new summertime exhibits will open on June 10th at MOFA. "Habits and Habitats" features contemporary Florida artists and southeastern fine crafts from the Tampa Bay area. "John Wilton's M&M Art Panels" gives gallery-goers an opportunity to participate in the exhibition by arranging and re-arranging a unique system of Modular Art Panels (MAPs). The MAPs incorporate various types of imagery and media, such as digital photography, acrylic painting and silkscreen. Members of the public are encouraged to play with themes, shapes, colors and patterns as they recreate the look of the show. "Florida Book Art" will offer viewers insight about contemporary bookmaking. Works will be one of a kind and include examples of letterpress, offset print, digital and inkjet processes. The exhibit will include books in a library-like environment as well as wall pieces and free-standing sculptural book forms. See all three shows at the opening night reception on June 10th. 386-734-4371 www.museumoffloridaart.com
June 11: Trumpeter Frankie V's Jazz Band, Deltona Coffee House, Deltona - The Deltona Coffee House at the Deltona Arts Center will present the return of Trumpeter Frankie V and his 5 piece jazz group performing a collection of Latin, smooth and funk jazz tunes. 386-532-9893 www.deltonaarts.com
June 17 - July 3: Sands Theater Company presents Little Shop of Horrors, Athens Theatre, DeLand - Based on the film by Roger Corman, this production tells the story of a floral assistant who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Audrey grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore with a hidden agenda! 386-736-1500 www.athenstheatre.org
June 18: History of Sugar Production, DeBary Hall Historic Site, DeBary - Lucy Wayne, Ph.D., author of "Sweet Cane: The Architecture of the Sugar Works of East Florida," will discuss the early history of sugar production in east Florida. Her discussion is part of Lemonade Lectures, a free learning series about local history, culture and destinations. The presentation will be in DeBary Hall's stables with light refreshments and lemonade. 386-668-3840 www.debaryhall.com
June 18: MainStreet DeLand's 26th Birthday Celebration, Historic Downtown DeLand - Come celebrate MainStreet DeLand Association's 26th birthday at a summertime block party featuring a giant cake, music, dancing in the street, a dunk tank, fire hose spray, shopping, dining and fun. 386-738-0649 www.mainstreetdeland.org
June 24: Fourth Friday, Downtown DeLand - Mark your calendars to head downtown and take in all the fun Fourth Friday activities! The monthly street fair at Artisan Alley features groovy music as well as food, drinks, and arts and crafts for purchase. The DeLand Art Walk will highlight more than two dozen venues each hosting artwork by Central Florida artists. What's more, you can enjoy all these activities on foursquare by checking in at each venue on your smartphone to earn points, badges and even merchant discounts! visitwestvolusia.com/foursquare (See Foursquare Friday above for more information.)
June 26: 16th Annual Latin Arts and Music Festival, Dewey Boster Sports Complex, Deltona - The Annual Latin Arts and Music Festival is presented by the Volusia County Hispanic Association and attracts thousands of attendees from throughout Central Florida. The event celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with displays of artwork, local youth group demonstrations and live music performed by internationally known artists. www.volusiahispanics.com
E - Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, DeLeon Springs - Early morning summer walks are a delight at Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, where you can discover rare and endangered species such as the Southern bald eagle and the swallowtail kite. Chances are excellent for viewing alligators and other wildlife that call the refuge home. 386-985-4673 www.fws.gov/lakewoodruff
C - Museum of Florida Art, DeLand - See acclaimed art by artists of the Sunshine State with exhibits that showcase emerging and established Florida artists through dynamic exhibitions, interpretive programs and educational classes. Three new shows will be opening on June 10th. Camp Create also begins in June, offering a variety of youth art programs through early August. 386-734-4371 www.museumoffloridaart.com
H - DeLand House Museum, DeLand - Escape the heat with an indoor tour of this remarkable historic house museum, filled with antique furnishings, artifacts and memorabilia. Enjoy wall-to-wall displays of period photographs that trace the history of the city and surrounding areas. Summer programs include fun-filled history day-camps for children. 386-740-6813 www.delandhouse.com
O - Spring to Spring Trail, West Volusia - Perfect for walkers, joggers, inline skaters and bicyclists, the Spring to Spring Trail links several of our communities to the St. Johns River, parks and attractions. Several segments of the trail are complete, with trailheads at: Lake Monroe Park, Gemini Springs County Park, DeBary Hall Historic Site, Green Springs Park, Lake Beresford County Park, Blue Spring State Park and along Grand Avenue in Glenwood. 386-736-5953 www.volusia.org/trails/springtospring.htm
STOP BY AND SEE US!!!
West Volusia Tourism Bureau & Visitor Center 116 W. New York Avenue, DeLand FL 32720 800-749-4350 386-734-0162 visitwestvolusia.com We also have a satellite visitor center at
DeBary Hall Historic Site 210 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary FL 32713 386-668-3840 386-736-5953 www.debaryhall.com | |
