 The COVID-19 pandemic caused many parents to take a hard look at the education of their children in ways the've never thought about. Most children were forced to attend virtual school in some capacity. While virtual school isn't for everyone, there are some benefits for parents whose children learn from home. The main benefit is flexibility.
 In 2020, the professional baseball season was abbreviated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, there was no minor league season altogether. Thankfully, in 2021, local minor league baseball is back for fans of all ages to enjoy an evening at the ballpark.
 The charm and quaintness of downtown DeLand expanded again in April thanks to the opening of The Create Space at 112 E New York Ave (located in the Dreka Building). Ginny-Beth Joiner, born and raised DeLand resident, renovated the space and unleashed her creative expertise on the empty space. For decades, she has crafted, painted, created, and designed under the name “Martha MacGyver”; a nod to the craftiness of Martha Stewart and the creative abilities of fictional character and 80’s TV icon “MacGyver”.
 The wait is finally over! The long-awaited Daytona Beach location of Buc-ee’s gas station and convenience store opened on March 22, 2021. The location is at 2330 Gateway North Drive, on the northeast side of the Interstate 95/LPGA Boulevard interchange, and had packed-out crowds on opening day.
 Why would DeLand need another ice cream shop? People come from miles to visit places like Sweat Spot and Rodeo Whip. Are two new ones really going to make a big difference? To fans of these new institutions, the answer is yes!
 It’s been six years since the dreams of two DeLand locals became a reality. In 2014, Robbie Carelli and Andy Sistrunk began Persimmon Hollow, the now-beloved craft brewery in Downtown DeLand. It is considered to be an anchor in the Artisan Alley district of businesses that are west of Woodland Blvd.
 What’s better than one Aldi opening in DeLand? Two Aldis! That's right. Another Aldi is joining the DeLand community, this time in South DeLand. Although no official announcement is on the Aldi company website, the city has confirmed the German chain will open its doors with a new location yet again in DeLand.
 There’s a new, yet familiar, business in downtown DeLand and it's a one-of-a-kind place with a familiar feel.
Confused? Let’s clear that up.  True, authentic Florida has always been known for its vast, rugged and unforgiving terrain, rich Native American influences and history, wildlife that demands respect and a wide berth and gorgeous waters, flora and fauna. It's been the envy of states for years and the topic of many books and explorations. One such explorer was William Bartram, an American naturalist (1729-1823). Bartram took a four year expedition to chart the beauty of many southern states. His journey in Florida took him from Amelia Island to the Gainesville area where he studied what is now Payne’s Prairie. Eventually, his adventures brought him south along the St. John’s River to Astor and then Blue Springs in Orange City.
 Every Volusia County resident knows (or should know) the pride and crown jewel of the west side of the county is DeLand. Woodland Boulevard runs through the beautiful and historic Stetson University and continues through the picturesque downtown lined with restaurants and shops. Downtown DeLand is at the center of most of the town’s events, from annual art shows and jazz festivals to weekly concerts, farmer’s markets and theatrical performances. But, what brings the quaintness and true character to DeLand are the merchants who keep the Boulevard alive day-to-day.
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