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Fostering Community Wellness

Week 6 of the Mayor’s Fitness Challenge continues with a focus on Daytona Beach’s identity as the Birthplace of Speed. Drawing inspiration from the city’s rich motorsports heritage, participants are encouraged to channel the spirit of speed, endurance and performance while staying active and engaged.

  • Theme: Birthplace of Speed – Racing Toward Wellness
  • Attire: NASCAR or race-themed gear
  • Location: Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd.

Week 6 emphasizes strength and overall wellness, offering participants an opportunity to build power and stability while celebrating Daytona Beach’s racing legacy.
What's Happening This Week

WEEK 6

Birthplace of Speed – Racing Toward Wellness

*Participants who dress according to the weekly theme will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.

Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 5:30 p.m. 

Strength Training with Stephanie

Attire: NASCAR or Race-theme (Bring your own weights)

Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd.

Thursday, Feb. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

Strength Training with Stephanie 

Attire: NASCAR or Race-theme (Bring your own weights)

Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd.
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Instructor Bio

Dr. Stephanie Pasley-Henry

Dr. Stephanie Pasley-Henry, Founder of the Math and Reading Party Programs and Dean of First-Year Experience at Bethune-Cookman University, became a certified fitness instructor in 2009 after losing 40 pounds through a dedicated fitness and diet routine. This transformation sparked her passion for sharing health and wellness with others.

As an author, motivational speaker and fitness instructor, Dr. Pasley-Henry blends music, fitness and learning to inspire adults to pursue their health goals. She is recognized as one of America’s most dynamic educational entrepreneurs, known for innovative teaching practices. She created The Math Party and The Reading Party Programs, which combine math and reading with fun and fitness. These programs are available as mobile apps on Apple and Android. After her weight loss, Dr. Pasley-Henry developed the W.I.N.N.E.R. strategy to stay healthy. Here’s a quick look at the plan:

  • W - Drink Water
  • I - Intermittent Fasting
  • N - Nutrition: Add fruits, veggies, and vitamins daily
  • N - NO to unhealthy foods
  • E - Exercise consistently
  • R - Rest: Get enough sleep

Dr. Pasley-Henry leads a FREE “Strength Training with Stephanie” Zoom class every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6 to 7 a.m. Join her Fitness Family for motivational workouts. To get the Zoom link, text 954-559-4606.

Dr. Pasley-Henry is also the loving wife of Mayor Derrick Henry and the proud mother of Michael, Derrick Jr. and Paisley.
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celebrate our history

Birthplace of Speed – Racing Toward Wellness

As Daytona Beach prepares for another racing season, the Daytona 500 stands as one of the most iconic events in motorsports history. Known as “The Great American Race,” the Daytona 500 traces its origins to early beach and road course racing and the founding of NASCAR in Daytona Beach in 1948. The first Daytona 500 was held in 1959 at the newly completed Daytona International Speedway, marking a pivotal moment that cemented the city’s global reputation as a motorsports capital.

For more than six decades, the Daytona 500 has drawn fans, drivers and racing legends to Daytona Beach, carrying forward a tradition rooted in innovation, speed and the city’s unique racing heritage. 

The 2026 Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway. It will be the 68th running of the season-opening “Great American Race.”
Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida Daytona 500 Circa 1977
Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida 1980
Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida International Speedway

* Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida.
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Look Ahead: Week 7

World Famous Beach

*Participants who dress according to the weekly theme will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.

Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 5:30 p.m. 

Yoga with Renew Yoga

Attire: Beachwear-inspired Activewear (Bring your own yoga mat)

Riverfront Esplanade Rose Garden, 255 S. Beach St.

Thursday, Feb. 19 at 5:30 p.m. 

Yoga with Renew Yoga

Attire: Beachwear-inspired Activewear (Bring your own yoga mat)

Riverfront Esplanade Rose Garden, 255 S. Beach St.
Featured Recipe

Recipe of the Week:Quick & Easy Baked Fish with Salsa 

Submitted by Kat Pappas

Ingredients:

  • Mild fish fillets, such as tilapia, swai or cod
  • ½ cup salsa per fillet (try La Mexicana in the fresh produce section or make your own)

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 400 F.
  • Spray a baking pan with nonstick spray. Place fish fillets in the pan.
  • Pour salsa over each fillet.
  • Bake 15–20 minutes, or until fish is flaky.

Tips:

  • Make as many or as few servings as you like.
  • Experiment with different salsas — mild, spicy or fruity flavors such as mango or pineapple.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables and brown rice or quinoa.
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We’re inviting participants to share their favorite healthy recipes for a chance to be featured in an upcoming city promotion. Whether it’s a quick breakfast, a family favorite or a nutritious snack, your recipe could help inspire others to eat well.

Submit your recipe with a brief description and photo, if available, to Ingrid Laas, food and beverage assistant, at LaasIngrid@DaytonaBeach.gov. 
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Follow the City of Daytona Beach on social media for the latest news, events and highlights from around the city. 

View and download high-quality photos from city events, programs and initiatives on the city’s Flickr page, which will be regularly updated with photography captured throughout the week.

Stay informed and connected by following, watching and sharing city content across our social platforms.
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Weekly video content will be uploaded on the city’s YouTube channel, featuring program coverage and session highlights.
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