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December is here, and we’re excited for everything this month has in store! We kick things off with a ribbon cutting for Sud Stop Car Wash. We hope you will join our Chamber Ambassadors as we celebrate and support a fellow Chamber member.
Be sure to reserve your spot for our holiday edition of Business After Hours at the Ocean Center! During this season of giving, we are partnering with Family Renew Community to collect items for families in need. Check out the Things to Know section below for all the details on how you can participate. This special evening will also serve as a warm farewell and happy retirement celebration for President & CEO Nancy Keefer as we honor her 12 years of leadership.
We also invite you to a special Policy & Prosperity event featuring Secretary Melanie Griffin, who oversees licensing, compliance, and regulatory matters for thousands of businesses statewide. Space is limited, so secure your reservation soon.
As we look ahead to 2026, don’t miss the Market Watch Economic Forecast—your opportunity to gain valuable insights into economic trends at the local, state, national, and global levels. Keynote speaker Dwain Carryl, Managing Director at Bank of America’s Chief Investment Office, along with a panel of local experts, will provide the expertise you need. Register now to make sure that you are in the know!
Wishing you a great start to the month!
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Daytona Regional Chamber Happenings
Connecting You with a Click or Two
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Things to Know
Business After Hours - December 9
Share the spirit of the holiday season at Business After Hours hosted by the Ocean Center on Tuesday, December 9, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. This year, the Daytona Regional Chamber is partnering with Family Renew Community to support local families in need. Attendees who bring a donation item valued at a minimum of $15 will receive a pass for a complimentary Business After Hours to use in 2026. Items of need include toiletries (shampoo, body wash, deodorant), toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, twin or double bed sheets, as well as Walmart gift cards and gas station gift cards.
In addition to celebrating the holiday season, this Business After Hours will offer members the chance to wish a fond farewell to President & CEO Nancy Keefer on her retirement. Make plans to join us for this festive occasion!
Reach out to Lisa Solomons, Program Manager, at lisa@daytonachamber.com or 386.523.3678, with any questions.
Policy & Prosperity with Sec. Melanie Griffin - December 11
Join the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce for an exclusive conversation sponsored by the Daytona International Speedway with Secretary Melanie Griffin, who leads Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The agency directly responsible for licensing, compliance, and regulatory oversight for thousands of businesses across the state.
For more information, please contact David Robinson, Director of Advocacy, at david@daytonachamber.com or 386.255.7174.
Trails at Sunrise Park Ribbon Cutting - December 11
Mark your calendar and plan to join the Daytona Regional Chamber Ambassadors as we cut the ribbon for Early Learning Coalition of Flagler & Volusia’s interactive children’s trails in Sunrise Park. ELCFV collaborated with AdventHealth, the City of Holly Hill and FASTSIGNS of Daytona Beach to make these trails available for the community.
Reach out to Lori McMullin, Director of Membership Sales & Business Development, at lori@daytonachamber.com or 386.523.3680.
Market Watch Economic Forecast - December 12
The Daytona Regional Chamber and Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation are proud to collaborate on the Market Watch Economic Forecast presented by Bank of America on Friday, December 12, from 7:30-9:30 a.m. Gain insights on the economic outlook for the coming year with a local industry panel discussion and a keynote presentation on the national and international forecast.
This year's local panel discussion will focus on the aviation & aerospace and manufacturing sectors, featuring:
- Trevor Perrott, CEO & Co-Founder, Censys Technologies
- Leslie Giscombe, President & Chief Business Officer, Phemotron Systems
- Kevin Kyle, CEO, Germfree
Reserve your seat today! For more information, please contact Ken Phelps, VP of Resource Development, at ken@daytonachamber.com or 386.523.3675.
Dark Alchemy Coffee Ribbon Cutting - December 16
Mark your calendar and plan to join the Daytona Regional Chamber as we cut the ribbon for Dark Alchemy Coffee and The Shops at Marina Grande (managed by FLISA Ventures LLC).
Reach out to Lori McMullin, Director of Membership Sales & Business Development, at lori@daytonachamber.com or 386.523.3680.
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Looking Ahead
Eggs & Issues - January 8
Join us for the first Eggs & Issues Membership Meeting of 2026 as we look to the skies and beyond on Thursday, January 8, from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Halifax River Yacht Club. The Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce welcomes Dr. Barry Butler, President of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, for an in-depth conversation on The Future of Aviation & Aerospace.
For more information, please contact David Robinson, Director of Advocacy, at david@daytonachamber.com or 386.255.7174.
106th Annual Meeting - February 2
Mark your calendars for the premier business event of the year! The Daytona Regional Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting presented by Halifax Health is scheduled for Monday, February 2, at the News-Journal Center.
We are excited to welcome John O'Leary, subject of the major motion picture Soul on Fire, as our featured speaker! Soul on Fire was released in theaters nationwide in October and featured a local connection as past Daytona Regional Chamber Board Chair Chris Bowler and his wife, Maja, were credited as Co-Executive Producers. The film stars Emmy and Golden Globe winner John Corbett as Denny O’Leary, John’s late father, as well as Emmy and Screen Actors Guild winner William H. Macy, who portrays the late Hall of Fame sports broadcaster Jack Buck.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ken Phelps, VP of Resource Development, at ken@daytonachamber.com or 386.523.3675.
Volusia Days 2026 - February 23-24
Mark your calendars for Volusia Days 2026, taking place on Monday, February 23, and Tuesday, February 24! This annual event is a prime opportunity to connect with lawmakers, agency heads, and advocate for our business community.
For sponsorship opportunities or hotel room information, please reach out to our Director of Advocacy, David Robinson, at david@daytonachamber.com.
| | December Focus on Hospitality | |
Experience Boardwalk Inn & Suites
By Donna Jollimore, Director of Hotel Operations, Boardwalk Inn & Suites
Stay Local and Save
Located steps from the sand and the iconic World Famous Daytona Beach sign, Boardwalk Inn & Suites is a welcoming escape for locals looking to relax close to home. We proudly offer exclusive Florida Resident Discounts year-round, making it easy to book a quick getaway or host visiting friends and family. With spacious rooms, ocean views, and a central location, our hotel offers comfort that feels close to home.
Amenities That Bring Comfort and Convenience
Guests can enjoy our heated outdoor pool and hot tub throughout the year, along with a fully equipped fitness center for those who like to stay active. We also offer ResortPass day passes, giving locals the opportunity to enjoy our pool and amenities for the day without an overnight stay. BB's Tiki and Beachside Bar is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM and is the perfect spot for a drink with ocean views. Locals are always welcome to stop by, take a photo by the famous Daytona Beach sign, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Host Your Next Meeting or Event
Boardwalk Inn & Suites is also a convenient choice for meetings, trainings, and special gatherings. Our Palms Ballroom is located near the lobby and offers complete privacy. The room accommodates 40 to 50 guests comfortably in its 620 square feet of space. Our experienced event team is available to help customize every detail, and group accommodations are available for those who want a seamless stay and event experience. We look forward to supporting our local community and hosting your next gathering!
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Tropical Manor to Celebrate 70th Anniversary in Business & 50 Years as a Chamber Member in 2026
By Aileen Band, General Manager, Tropical Manor on the Ocean
Alfred and Audrey Kelleman honeymooned in Daytona Beach and were so enamored with the area that they decided to move from Chicago and start their own business during 1956. Alfred was a pilot for Flying Tigers Airlines, flying the largest cargo aircraft worldwide. Audrey was a psychiatric nurse, a background that has served her well during decades in hospitality. They purchased 7-room Tennessee by the Sea on Atlantic Avenue in Daytona Beach Shores, then later adjacent properties including the Blue Waves. The Kellemans spent their free time flying or traveling by boat to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, with these trips generating many ideas for their family business.
Tragedy struck in 1971 when Alfred died at age 46 of a sudden heart attack. Audrey was devastated and advised to sell the property. Instead, Audrey persevered, with twin 3-year-old daughters, to expand and build the business. The Tropical Manor has blossomed into a total of 41 rooms, including 1,2,3 Bedroom Oceanfront Suites, Charming Cottages, and Adorable Studios in 10 sprawling buildings. It is known for its bright, pink colors, and hand-painted tropical facades. Each bright and cheerful guest room has its own beach-themed furnishings and unique special touches. The Tropical Manor's spacious oceanfront features a swimming pool shaped like a bell, a large kiddie pool, shuffleboard court, and signature, umbrella-covered table and chairs.
The Tropical Manor is a top-ranked hotel in Daytona Beach Shores on TripAdvisor and has won many prestigious awards, including TripAdvisor's Travelers’ Choice Award for 2021, and the AAA Best of Inspected Clean Designation during 2020,2021,2022,2023,2024, and 2025. The Tropical Manor was also a founding partner in Daytona Beach of Superior Small Lodgings, a quality assurance and marketing program from quality, small hotels. The Tropical Manor continues to be family-owned and operated. Audrey's daughter, Aileen Band, a graduate of the prestigious Cornell School of Hotel Administration and the University of Chicago's Booth Graduate School of Business is the property's General Manager. Audrey's other twin daughter, Dr. Audrey Kelleman, a graduate of Cornell University and the University of Florida School of Veterinary Medicine, who is an Assistant Professor at UF's Veterinary School, is also actively involved. The Tropical Manor is an excellent choice for your business colleagues and visiting family members and friends. Convenient online reservations are available at http://www.tropicalmanor.com/chamber. Or, call our Front Desk at 866-420-9882 for friendly, personal assistance in placing your reservation.
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December Focus on Hospitality
During the month of December, we will focus on members in the hospitality sector. Consider submitting a business spotlight to be featured in The Edge newsletter, on social media, and on the Chamber website.
Business spotlight submission deadlines are 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, and 12/26.
Direct questions to Kelly Amy, Member Engagement & Communications Director, at 386.229.5759 or kelly@daytonachamber.com.
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Member POV: Rose Ann Tornatore
Wholesale Lighting, Inc.
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Affiliates in Action
Get to Know our Community Partners
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Volusia County Association for Responsible Development
Join VCARD as we celebrate the Holidays at Ford's Garage in Daytona Beach Presented by Geo-Technology Associates. Each year VCARD chooses a different charity, this year we have chosen Family Renew Community- right here in Volusia County.
December 4, 2025
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Ford's Garage Daytona
1495 Cornerstone Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32117
Register: VCARD Events | Volusia County Association for Responsible Development Events
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Volusia Young Professional Group
Celebrate the Season at VYPG's Holiday Masquerade Party!
Get ready to ring in the holidays with elegance and excitement! This year, we're putting a glamorous twist on our annual holiday celebration—a masquerade party you won't want to miss.
December 11, 2025
6:00 p.m.
$20 Members | $25 Future Members
Gary Yeomans Lincoln
1410 N Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32124
Register: VYPG Events - Volusia YPG
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