The Manatee Messenger Bringing you the latest news about West Volusia's
special events, area attractions and lodging promotions
October 2011
Volusia Meets His First Human
This time was different because the humans were quietly observing his antics which didn't alarm Volusia at all. As a matter of fact, he was becoming curious about these strange apparitions. So much so that Volusia stopped his back rubbing to get a closer look, thrusting his head out of the water while gently snorting. But to his dismay, the people were gone! Not for long though because they appeared on the bank of the lake at the beginning of the dock. Volusia slowly swam toward them, doing a few barrel rolls along the way.
Cautiously Volusia approached and keeping a few feet away, he studiously watched as one of the humans reached out a hand holding a big bunch of water lettuce. He couldn't resist the temptation and gently took the mouthwatering morsel. A few seconds later he was back for another handout, then another much to the glee of the people. Once the supply of water lettuce was gone, Volusia hung around for awhile interacting with them then slowly swam off.
What's wrong with this Volusia Adventure? When humans interact with manatees and provide food, you are teaching them two very dangerous things. Not only will manatees start to depend on people for an easy food supply, but they will become less aware that some interactions can be deadly, like approaching a boat. Remember, Volusia has recently healed from some very ugly propeller cuts. Manatees are smart, they are curious and they are friendly. They are also animals that live in the wild and should be treated that way out of respect for their species and their survival.
Next month: We have a secret to share!
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.
Have Fun with Foursquare! October 8th in Downtown DeLand
Featuring Great Bowls of Fire Chili Cook Off
Mark your calendars and join us for all the festivities!  Great Bowls of Fire Chili Cook Off - October 8: This festive, family event draws competitors and visitors from all over the United States. Sanctioned by the Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI), chili cooks will vie for trophies, bragging rights and CASI points to use for entry into the Terlingua International Championship Chili competition held annually in Texas. The cook off will be held on East Indiana Avenue. Taster's admission: Adults: $10.00 / Children ages 4-12: $4.00. Saturday: 11am - 4 pm  Fun with Foursquare -Spend the day downtown taking in a wonderful assortment of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to check in on foursquare on your smartphone along the way to earn points, badges and mayorships. Leave lots of tips, and take advantage of special discounts at participating stores, restaurants and area lodging! Visit our website for details: www.visitwestvolusia.com/foursquare
Hot Deals on Vacation Packages
Special Rates for Bikers - October 13-16
In West Volusia, just 20 miles from Daytona Beach, motorcyclists have many affordable lodging choices - from charming bed and breakfast inns to well-appointed hotels and motels, country cabins and campgrounds to riverfront fish camps! An eclectic mix of attractions, dining and shopping coupled with amazing scenic vistas make this a popular spot for bikers from all over the world. For more information on special rates for Biketoberfest or to download our Scenic Rides brochure, visit www.visitwestvolusia.com/biketoberfest
West Volusia Golf Escapes - ON SALE FOR A LIMITED TIME - From $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 playing 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.
Prices valid until December 31, 2011.
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 : Clarion Hotel, DeLand - The Clarion is a 3-star, full service hotel located across from the DeLand Airport and Skydive DeLand and only 15 miles west of the Daytona International Speedway. This interior corridor hotel offers 148 freshly renovated rooms, a lobby bar, and a full service restaurant featuring continental and full breakfast as well as Sunday brunch. Over 5,000 sq. ft. of meeting/banquet space is also available. 386-738-5200 www.clarionhotel.com
Bed & Breakfast : Cabin on the Lake, Lake Helen - Relaxation awaits you in the quite historic town of Lake Helen. Each guest room in this cozy English country inn has a different and unique appeal with a view of the lake and gardens. Enjoy a full breakfast on the patio or gazebo, weekend bistro lunches on request and private psychic readings. Ask about expert massage therapy and other special packages. 386-951-2684 www.cabinonthelake.com
Riverfront: Blair's Jungle Den, Astor - The Jungle Den is a peaceful riverfront motel located on the beautiful St. Johns River, providing access to one of the best bass fishing spots in the southern United States. Enjoy all of the comforts of home including cable TV, a full kitchen and maid service in 1- or 2-bedroom efficiencies. The facility also caters to campers for short or long term rentals. 386-749-2264 www.blairsjungleden.com
Campground : Highbanks Marina and Camp Resort, DeBary - This beautiful 25-acre wooded RV campground is located along the St. Johns River offering RV sites and many amenities including WIFI, pool, ships store, playground and bath house. The marina has boat rentals and boat slips, and there is an eco-history tour boat on site. The Swamp House Grill Restaurant, a local favorite, features live music and great food. 386-668-4491 www.campresort.com
Featured October Events
The West Volusia County area is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities for all ages. Experience our charming, small-town Florida communities, unique shopping, delightful restaurants and affordable accommodations. Below are a few highlights from our Calendar of Events .
Halloween Happenings
October 1-31 : Creepy Creek Tours, Astor - Set sail on a naturally creepy two hour boat ride into the swamps of the St Johns River to hear and see the critters of the night. 866-349-0674 www.stjohnsrivertours.com
October 21-22: Cemetery Tour, DeLand - Join the West Volusia Historical Society on their bi-annual Cemetery Walk through Oakdale Cemetery. It will feature the 'return' of a variety of characters who pioneered the area. 386-740-6813 www.delandhouse.com
October 21-30: Dracula Rock Show, DeBary - The Zombies and Vampires are unhappy with their life underground, and summon Count Dracula, their master. 386-668-5553 www.gatewaycenterforthearts.org
October 22: Haunted Trails at DeLeon Springs State Park, DeLeon Springs - Walk the haunted trail, and stop at stations along the way for your tricks and treats! 386-985-4212 www.floridastateparks.org/deleonsprings
October 28 & 29: All Hallows Eve Fair, Cassadaga - Join the Camp's monsters, gypsies, mad scientists, and mediums for 2 nights of haunted activities including food, music, gallery readings, and walking tours. 386-228-2880 www.cassadagahalloween.com
October 29: Halloween Block Party and Movie in the Park, Orange City - Bring the kids out to Dickinson Park for lots of candy, costume contests, music and fun! Music will be provided by the local band Run Rhino and there will be a showing of Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds". 386-775-5410 www.ci.orange-city.fl.us/
October 31 : Monsters on MainStreet, DeLand - Come out and let the kids enjoy safe trick-or-treating with the Downtown DeLand merchants. 386-738-0649 www.mainstreetdeland.org
More October Events
Through October 23 : 2nd Annual Juried Art Exhibition, DeLand - 52 contemporary artists were selected for this annual show at the Florida Museum of Women Artists. 386-873-2976 www.floridamuseumforwomenartists.org
October 8: Great Bowls of Fire Chili Cook Off, DeLand - This festive, family event draws competitors and visitors from all over the United States. Sanctioned by the Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI), chili cooks will vie for trophies, bragging rights and CASI points to use for entry into the Terlingua International Championship Chili competition held annually in Texas. 386-738-0649 www.greatbowlsofchilicookoff.com
October 15: Old Enterprise Festival, Enterprise - Come out to Mariner's Cove Park and enjoy live music, food, bounce house, arts and crafts activities, pie eating contest, bicycle raffles, and a 50/50 contest. 386-575-0694 www.oldenterprise.org
October 22 : "Thin Man" Watts Jazz Fest, DeLand - The African American Museum of Art and the MainStreet DeLand Association present the "Thin Man" Watts Jazz Fest. There will be five live performance stages and area clubs hosting jazz musicians through midnight. www.wattsjazzfest.com
October 22: Holiday Floral Design Workshop, DeBary - Learn how to design fresh floral centerpieces for the holidays at DeBary Hall Historic Site. 386-668-3840 www.debaryhall.com
October 23 : "Elvis: A Concert Experience", DeLand - Experience Jim Jinelli's tribute to Elvis live at the Athens Theater. 386-736-1500 www.athenstheatre.org
October 29: Bat Box Workshop, Deltona - Make a bat box for your backyard to help in controlling the insect population in your area. 386-789-7207 www.lyoniapreserve.com
E - Wiregrass Prairie Preserve, Osteen - 1,400 acres situated almost entirely in the St. Johns River basin features three trails open to hiking, horseback riding and bicycling. Group camping is available by permit. 386-740-5261 www.volusia.org/growth/wiregrass.htm
C - Florida Museum For Women Artists, DeLand - Celebrate the accomplishments of Florida's female artists at the Florida Museum for Women Artists, the only museum in the state of Florida and the southeastern United States to provide art exclusively by women. Be sure to visit the museum's shop for unique gift ideas. 386-873-2976 www.floridamuseumforwomenartists.org
H - Cassadaga Spirtualist Camp, Cassadaga - Feel the healing energies at Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, the oldest active religious community in the Southeastern United States. People from all over the world come for readings, healings and séances. Tree-lined cobblestone streets, meditation gardens and a metaphysical bookstore enhance the mystical experience. Mediums and spiritualist healers are available for consultation daily. 386-228-2880 www.cassadaga.org
O - River Quest - River Quest is a series of treasure hunts stretching throughout West Volusia County that utilize rhyming and riddle-like clues along with hand-drawn maps, icons and GPS coordinates to reveal special places and stories. Quests are usually on-foot adventures that gently share the history of the region. They are a perfect way to spend special time with family or friends. There are 3 Quest activities available. 386-734-0162 www.visitwestvolusia.com
STOP BY AND SEE US!!!
West Volusia Tourism Bureau & Visitor Center Open seven days a week 116 W. New York Avenue, DeLand FL 32720 800-749-4350 - 386-734-0162 www.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 | |
