F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival, Feb. 23-25

The F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival starts today with a film festival at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the Captain Willie Miller Instructional Center and a full schedule of activities on Friday and Saturday at the Julia T. and Charles W. Cherry Sr. Cultural and Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd. in Daytona Beach. 

This engaging festival offers entertainment with film, book and author presentations. More than 50 authors and narrators are scheduled to participate in the international festival.

FDOT hosts public meeting about improvements to LPGA Boulevard

The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a community meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the LPGA International Clubhouse, 1000 Champions Drive, for the public to learn about a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for LPGA Boulevard from International Speedway Boulevard/U.S. 92 to Williamson Boulevard. The purpose of this study is to accommodate existing and future travel demand and improve safety on LPGA Boulevard and the I-95 interchange. 

There are three options to attend the meeting—in person, virtually (advance registration required) and by calling in (listening only). For more information, visit contact Jesse Blouin at (386) 943-5167 or by email. 

Learn about Florida's unique reptiles

Meet some of Florida’s slithery and scaley friends at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 1, at the Breakers Environmental Learning Center, 13 S. Atlantic Ave. Guests can expect an up-close visit from cold-blooded reptiles and learn about how they live and eat during a free presentation from wildlife removal specialist Jean-Noel Vallejo. To register, visit www.CODB.us/Activities. For more information, call (386) 671-8250 or (386) 671-3566. 

City's mobile app allows residents to schedule a virtual meeting with staff 

The city's recently launched mobile app includes many convenient features. One innovative and time-saving option is the ability to reserve a date and 15-, 20- or 30-minute time slot for a one-on-one virtual meeting with staff, similar to making an online reservation at a restaurant. Participating departments include Growth Management and Planning, Parks and Recreation, Permits and Licensing, Trespass Arrest Site and Utility Billing.  Specialized software are not required to meet virtually, only a desktop computer or a smartphone with a web browser. Virtual meetings can also be scheduled using the city's website. 

Tickets on sale for Aretha Franklin tribute 

Celebrate Women's History Month in March with an electrifying tribute celebrating the music of one of the greatest artists of all time, the legendary Aretha Franklin. The performance is 7 p.m. March 29 at the Peabody Auditorium.

The concert features all of the Queen of Soul's biggest hits including "Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Chain of Fools,” “Respect” and many more. 

Ticket prices are $39, $49, and $59, plus applicable surcharges. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Peabody Box Office, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.peabodyauditorium.org.