Behavorial Health coming soon to our Deland location!
SOBRE LA FUNDADORA
ESTABLISHED 2022 VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1 WINTER 2025 | QUARTERLY
This Issue was published by My Sanford Magazine, LLC dba My Deltona Magazine, with project management by:
Editor in Chief & Founder
Perla Bello-Crosby
Copy Editor Director
Jennifer Luce
Managing Editor
Jennifer Luce
Dear Readers,
As we celebrate the second anniversary of My Deltona Magazine, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the City of Deltona, our advertisers, and each one of you, our wonderful community, for your support on this incredible journey. As Deltona’s exclusive magazine, we have proudly highlighted a variety of local small businesses and community members over these last two years. Additionally, in support of our diverse audience, almost the entire magazine is translated into Spanish, highlighting the vibrant Hispanic culture of Deltona.
At the 2024 Best of Sanford Awards Ceremony on September 10, we were thrilled to announce The Best of Deltona, set for 2025. This elegant gala will take place at The Center At Deltona, honoring the best of our city and region. The announcement was made in the presence of the City of Deltona representatives, including the Mayor and City Manager, who proudly received a large statuette as the icon for Best of Deltona 2025
Thank you again for your continued support, and here’s to many more years of celebrating Deltona together!
Stay tuned!
Queridos lectores:
Al celebrar el segundo aniversario de My Deltona Magazine, quiero expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento a la Ciudad de Deltona, a nuestros anunciantes, y a cada uno de ustedes, nuestra maravillosa comunidad, por su apoyo en este maravilloso trayecto. Como la revista exclusiva de Deltona, hemos destacado con orgullo a una variedad de pequeños negocios locales y personalidades de la comunidad durante estos dos años. También, en apoyo a nuestra diversa audiencia, la revista casi completa es traducida al español, resaltando la vibrante cultura hispana de Deltona.
En la Ceremonia de los Best of Sanford Awards 2024 el 10 de septiembre, nos llenó de gran orgullo anunciar The Best of Deltona, que se celebrará en 2025. Esta elegante gala tendrá lugar en The Center At Deltona, honrando lo mejor de nuestra ciudad y nuestra región. El anuncio se realizó en presencia de representantes de la Ciudad de Deltona, incluidos el alcalde, el administrador de la ciudad, quienes recibieron con orgullo una gran estatuilla como ícono de Best of Deltona 2025
¡Gracias de nuevo por tu continuo apoyo, y que sigamos celebrando muchos años más en esta hermosa ciudad de Deltona!
¡Mantente atento!
Marketing Director
Brian Ambrosini
Art Director
Renée Blair
Branding Art Director
Qistina Hullon
Digital Marketing MedRed Solutions
Web Development
One Source X
Photographers
Andrew Van Tilborgh
Daniella Hume, Mastropieces Productions
Pete Wilson Photography
Contributors
Mary Boza Crimmins
Perla Bello-Crosby
Charles I. Guarria
Daniella Hume
Jennifer Luce
My Deltona Magazine disclaims all liability for any and all advertisements, promotions, articles, and other affiliated content contained within this publication. The opinions of the authors are those alone. We do not accept any liability for information or advice provided by any advertiser, sponsor, or associated business provided in this magazine.
Rodriguez,
PHOTO
Andrew
COVER STORY
Franklin Rodriguez:
Making His Passion His Purpose and Positively Impacting the Deltona Community!
BY JENNIFER LUCE
Franklin Rodriguez, owner of Deltona Auto Parts. Inset: Franklin (center) and staff.
“Franklin is the pillar of our family. As a husband, he is unwaveringly supportive and loving; as a father, he’s an inspiration and guiding light to our children. His dedication to his work is unmatched—he pours his heart into everything he does, not just for our family but for the entire community he calls home.”
— YOLIANA RODRIGUEZ
Franklin Rodriguez, owner of Kelly’s Automotive Deltona, was born to humble beginnings in Puerto Rico. His mom was someone he adored and idolized throughout his childhood years as she played both the mother and father role in his life. He admired her strength as she made endless sacrifices to provide for him, but his childhood years were far from easy as they lived in poverty, and she struggled significantly to make ends meet. His uncle was his role model, his hero, the male example in his life that pushed him to achieve success. Franklin recalls his uncle taking him under his wing and teaching him everything he knew about mechanics at a very young age. In fact, Franklin was only 8 years old when he completed his first automotive job, alongside his uncle, of course!
Franklin met his wife, Yoliana during his teenage years. Yoliana was also born in Puerto Rico, but she moved to New York for the first 15 years of her life. It was after her return to Puerto Rico at the age of 15 when she met Franklin at a baseball game. The baseball players at the game weren’t the only ones who hit a homerun, Franklin did too as he engaged in
conversations with Yoliana that day! They fell deeply in love, got married not long after and 26 years later, their marriage is stronger than ever and they have two amazing children, a daughter and a son, ages 25 and 19. They moved to Ohio and then to Orlando and worked hard together to build a life filled with joy and happiness. Together, they strived for success and overcame many obstacles and challenges, but they stayed determined as a family, built their foundation with God in the center, and their hard work has paid off as they own two businesses in Deltona, a place where they spend much of their time and call home!
Franklin’s vision of one day owning an automotive shop became his incredible reality after the previous company he was working for was sold to a company in Jacksonville. Shortly after, a trusted friend who knew how much experience Franklin had in the automotive industry encouraged him to invest in himself and bring his dreams to life. Franklin was introduced to the previous owner of Kelly’s Automotive, which prompted him to conduct his own research on the Deltona area. Once he saw the property and immediately recognized the potential, he knew it was time to make his passion his purpose and became the official owner of Kelly’s
Franklin and Yoliana Rodriguez (center) with their son and daughter
Automotive in 2018. Within a few years, he has grown that business from a 3-man crew to a 15-man crew, and even brought his son to learn and help expand his business.
During the pandemic, Franklin realized that there was a shortage of auto parts available to both auto shops and consumers. Supplies that were crucial to his business were needed for the members of his new “home,” his community. To make things convenient and more efficient for his customers, he wanted to stock up on parts and decided to build an auto parts store next door, another investment to support the needs of the families in Deltona. Franklin, his wife Yoliana, and the entire Kelly Automotives family worked tirelessly to achieve that goal. With persistence and dedication to the community, 3 years later, they made another dream their reality! Now, visitors can purchase auto parts right next door to Kelly’s Automotive at his new business, Deltona Auto Parts. The shop is beautifully organized
with a retail store in the front that houses parts for walk in customers and everyday visitors, as well as a stocked warehouse in the back where Mr. Rodriguez keeps the auto parts that are distributed to commercial and residential consumers. Deltona Auto Parts just recently held their ribbon cutting ceremony last month. At the ceremony, they celebrated with the community, family members and friends, sharing their excitement about their business expansion and how significant this is for the city that they love so much and call home!
Franklin and Yoliana, both are proud to be active members of the Deltona community, not only as business owners, but also as community outreach members. They are affiliated with the Hispanic Central Florida Chamber of Commerce, where Franklin is the Treasurer for the Executive Board. Franklin is also the President Elect of the Deltona, Debary, & Orange City Rotary Club. They also participate in many fundraisers and enjoy giving back and investing in the
community that has embraced his family and businesses with welcoming arms! He keeps doing for others and truly believes that you take care of the people who take care of you! Franklin is confident 2025 will be an amazing year. He is looking forward to serving more people in Deltona as he continues to make positive impacts in the community! n
DELTONA AUTO PARTS
1280 Doyle Rd.
Deltona, FL 32725
(386) 259-4799
www.deltonaautoparts.com
ESCANEAR PARA
Franklin and Staff
Celebrating Progress: Deltona Auto Parts Grand Opening
The Hispanic Chamber of Central Florida proudly hosted the grand opening ceremony for Deltona Auto Parts in Fall 2024. After three years of dedication, owners Franklin Rodriguez and Yoliana Matos marked this significant milestone alongside guests and dignitaries from Deltona and West Volusia County. Attendees included the Deltona Mayor, City Commissioners, and local business leaders, including My Deltona Magazine. Congratulations to Deltona Auto Parts for making progress and strengthening our community!
Celebrando el Progreso: Gran Inauguración de Deltona Auto Parts
La Cámara Hispana de Comercio de Florida Central organizó con orgullo la ceremonia de inauguración de Deltona Auto Parts en el otoño de 2024. Después de tres años de dedicación, los propietarios Franklin Rodríguez y Yoliana Matos celebraron este importante logro junto a invitados y dignatarios de Deltona y el condado de West Volusia. Entre los asistentes estuvieron el alcalde de Deltona, los Comisionados de la Ciudad y líderes empresariales, incluido My Deltona Magazine. ¡Felicidades a Deltona Auto Parts por impulsar el progreso y fortalecer nuestra comunidad!
Deltona’s Culinary Expansion:
A TWO-YEAR REVIEW
BY CHARLES I. GUARRIA
In the past two years, Deltona’s restaurant scene continues to offer a growing selection of cuisines that residents and visitors alike can enjoy.
“It’s a very diverse community,” Wayne H. Caeners, the culinary arts instructor at Pine Ridge High School in Deltona, said.
Deltona is also a mix of family-owned eateries such as My Greek Taverna and JoJo’s Country Café that has gotten the attention of franchises such as Culver’s, Jeff’s Bagel Run and Raising Caine’s Chicken Fingers.
JoJo’s Country Café has been open “just over a year-13 months,” Josiah
“JoJo” Waters said while sitting with his wife, Jennifer Waters, inside the café on a late weekday afternoon. The couple co-owns the restaurant.
Mr. Waters said that in the 13 months they have been open, the Deltona restaurant scene has been on the rise. “I think so, I hear new places trying to open up and pop up all the time…the pizzerias around here, My Greek Taverna, I’ve been hearing a lot about.”
Location is a plus for Deltona when an entrepreneur considers opening in the city.
“It’s really a prime location,” Georgia Turner, the West Volusia Tourism Bureau Executive Director, said regarding
the I-4, S.R. 472 intersection. “There is no way that there will not be more development on that exit.”
She continued, “It’s just a very convenient location. I mean, I can’t stress that enough. It’s very easy to get there from Orlando, very easy to get there from Daytona Beach all along that I-4 corridor is very convenient.”
In fact, Culver’s is considering opening a mere two miles from the I-4, S.R. 472 intersection, according to a January project description report from the architecture and engineering firm Interplan LLC.
Ms. Turner has heard about Culver’s coming to Deltona and believes it is a
CHARLES
I. GUARRIA
Above: Co-owners of JoJo’s Country Café Jennifer and Josiah “JoJo” Waters.
trend. “I think that we’re seeing more (restaurants) just like DeLand. It seems several new places are coming.”
Mr. Waters concurs, “The new startups are coming. I think it’s building and growing more and more.”
The startups may be joined by more established brands than just Culver’s.
When Raising Cane’s opened this summer in Daytona, its first Volusia location, their communications team shared that Deltona is being considered as the town for their second Volusia location.
Similarly, Deltona or Deland will be the spot for the first Jeff’s Bagel Run in Volusia. Co-owner Jeny Shah recently texted a My Deltona Magazine correspondent, “We are currently working on both (city) contracts and will select the one that best suits our needs.”
A growing market size is important to attracting restaurant businesses.
According to John S. Cox, Deltona’s Economic Development Director, “Our retail trade area consists of 115,000+ consumers and we are anticipating a 1.4% (population) growth rate over the next 5 years. The strong income levels and buying power showcase the demand and potential for new business in the community.”
Ms. Turner is bullish on Deltona’s economy. “I really do think that it will be the next place where we see a big boost in the local economy.”
The data shows that the Deltona food scene is ripe for growth for any restaurant entrepreneurs wishing to join the community in 2025.
Mr. Cox pointed out a gap between consumer demand and market supply in 2023. “This gap demonstrates the need for additional full-service restaurants.” His most recent information shows 30 restaurants locating in peer
Volusia communities that have yet to open in Deltona.
And when restaurants do open for business in Deltona, they will find a welcoming community. “This location so far has been amazing,” Mr. Waters said. “It’s been great.”
He is also positive regarding print publications’ contributions to the industry. “I think the written publications are actually still really good.”
Mr. Waters gave a resounding yes when asked if he would recommend Deltona. “It’s our community. We want to support it, and they want to support us.” n
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
More than 120 opportunities for Business Networking
EnEspañol
Center at Deltona 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd. Deltona, FL 32725 7:30AM to 9AM Every Tuesday
8AM to 9:30AM
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512 Sanford Ave Sanford, FL 327771
Sponsorship opportunities available For location visit our Website
Every 3rd Wednesday of the month 09 AM - 11 AM 505 Deltona Blvd ste 103 Deltona FL 32725
Every 4th Thursday of the month
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1st and 3rd Thursday 8:30 AM to 9AM
1280 Doyle Rd Deltona, FL 32725
ONNECION AFTER 5 4 Times a year
Sponsorship opportunities available For location visit our Website Circle 4 Times a year
From 6:30PM For location visit our Website
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“Enrollment has grown to nearly 1,600 students, thanks to recent expansions such as the Classroom and Laboratory Building.”
— NEIL CLEMONS, DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS SERVICES
DAYTONA STATE COLLEGE
DELTONA CAMPUS:
EXPANDING ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION
AND ADVANCE TRAINING IN VOLUSIA COUNTY
BY DANIELLA HUME AND MY DELTONA MAGAZINE STAFF
Daytona State College (DSC) in Deltona, Florida, provides highquality postsecondary education and advanced training in western Volusia County, an area that has seen rapid growth. The Deltona campus, set on a 100-acre site, features state-of-the-art facilities, including classrooms, specialized health labs, a machining lab, computer labs, a bookstore, administrative offices, and more. Each year, numerous students benefit from the Deltona campus’ modernized spaces and state-of-the-art resources.
MY DELTONA MAGAZINE STAFF
Recent Upgrades and Additions
The recent campus renovation introduced a new multi-disciplinary classroom building, enhancing academic resources. This building supports DSC’s Nursing, Diagnostic Sonography, and CNC Machining programs, allowing the campus to serve up to 120 nursing students, 40 CNC machining students, and 50 diagnostic sonography students annually. This addition reflects DSC’s commitment to meeting the local demand for high-quality academic programs that support career readiness in essential fields.
Programs and Courses Available
The Deltona campus offers a variety of degree and certificate programs, many of which can be completed entirely on-site. This regional campus is designed to meet the needs of Deltona and surrounding areas, with options for both full-time and part-time students.
Programs available include:
• Associate degrees: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS) in Nursing
• Associate of Science (AS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Associate of Science (AS) in Business Administration
• Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Programming and Analysis
The campus also offers a full cosmetology salon that is open to the public on a walk-in basis. This unique feature provides practical experience for cosmetology students while serving the local community.
Enhanced Learning Environment
With upgraded classrooms, advanced laboratories, and interactive study spaces, DSC’s Deltona campus fosters an environment conducive to modern learning. Technology resources, outdoor study areas, and comprehensive student support services, including tutoring and counseling, are all part of the enhanced student experience.
This renovation strengthens DSC’s role as a crucial educational resource in Deltona, ensuring students have access to the skills and training needed for in-demand careers in healthcare, technology, business, and others.
Meeting Local Workforce Needs and Expanding Employment Horizons
The Deltona Campus of Daytona State College has emerged as a vital and proactive hub for learning and skill enhancement for western Volusia County. New developments, like a new classroom and laboratory building, have boosted enrollment in programs such as Nursing, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and CNC Machining. According to Neil Clemons, Director of Campus Services, enrollment has grown to nearly 1,600 students, thanks to recent expansions such as the Classroom and Laboratory Building. Not
only have these additions addressed the healthcare and manufacturing needs of the region, but they have also created jobs at good wages. This is because the college has forged strong connections with local industries, ensuring the curriculum is relevant to the market. The students are provided with practical experience through clinical practices, apprenticeships, and utilization of equipment that is obtained with money raised from the community. The future includes a welding program, which is anticipated to launch by Spring 2025.
A Bright Future for Education in Deltona
Through its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and fostering industry connections, Daytona State College’s Deltona campus continues to play a vital role in the growth and development of western Volusia County. From healthcare to manufacturing, DSC is equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market while strengthening the local economy. n
2351 Providence Blvd. Deltona, FL 32725
(386) 789-7300 www.daytonastate.edu
ESCANEAR PARA
Getting to Know
Joseph (Joe) Hearn: Empowering Communities, Inspiring Generations
BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY
Winter Park native Joseph Hearn has earned widespread recognition for his exceptional contributions to the Central Florida community, including being named one of Orlando’s “Men and Women of the Year.”
With over 30 years of experience in corporate event planning, Joseph has garnered national acclaim for his award-winning events, helping his company consistently secure the “Best of the Best” title for the past decade. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and collaborative approach, Joseph delivers events ranging from grand and extravagant to refined and intimate, always tailored to meet his clients’ unique visions.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joseph is deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly youth empowerment. He firmly believes in investing in the next generation and has demonstrated this through numerous leadership roles across Central Florida. These include serving as the past President of the Boys & Girls Club, President of the Rotary Club, Vice President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, and previous President of the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce. He continues to make a significant impact as a board member for various non-profits, such as the Main Street Association and the Volusia County Education Committee.
Joe Hearn, owner of Joe Hearn Events
COURTESY
JOE HEARN
1. What motivated you to get actively involved in community and philanthropic activities?
As I embarked on my professional path, it dawned on me that advocating for non-profits and community endeavors that inspire positive impact helps cultivate a culture of success that empowers everyone.
2. How do you balance your business work with your social commitments?
Through entrepreneurship, individuals can unlock their potential to drive transformative changes and serve the community. While managing the dual responsibilities of professional and social engagement presents difficulties, the outcomes of community-focused efforts are profoundly gratifying, reflecting a more fulfilling definition of success.
3. What challenges do you face when leading community projects in areas as diverse as West Volusia?
Each community in West Volusia boasts its own unique identity. However, they also share a common thread with other sister communities, in that many municipalities, neighborhoods, families, and organizations encounter similar philosophical obstacles, thereby creating a sense of connection through their shared experiences of challenges and accomplishments.
4. What do you consider your most significant project or initiative, and why?
I strongly believe that investing in our youth is the most rewarding gift we can bestow upon our community. They hold the keys to unlocking a future filled with promise and arming
them with the wisdom of experience and the resilience of humor will provide them with the indispensable tools necessary to guide us toward a future replete with possibilities.
5. What message would you like to share with emerging leaders who want to make a difference in their communities?
Prioritizing initiatives that align with your values is crucial for meaningful community engagement. Approaching a cause with genuine passion and conviction ensures that the time spent is rewarding and contributes to a sense of personal fulfillment.
6. What inspires you to continue working so actively for the well-being of our communities and the region?
Fostering an environment where everyone can attain their objectives and passions is a vital aspect of my core values and inherent nature to see others flourish.
generation, coupled with his ability to balance professional excellence with meaningful philanthropy, sets a standard for others to follow. By fostering connections, addressing challenges, and prioritizing value-driven initiatives, Joseph continues to inspire those around him, leaving a legacy that enriches the lives of individuals and strengthens the fabric of Central Florida. n
JOE HEARN EVENTS (386) 337-0528 www.joehearnevents.com
Joseph Hearn’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of leadership, compassion, and a commitment to building stronger communities. His dedication to empowering the next
Joe Hearn motivates and helps young man with his tie as he prepares for his first speech presentation.
Three Visionary Leaders of Deltona’s Schools TRANSFORMING EDUCATION:
BY MARY BOZA CRIMMINS
Deltona’s diverse educational offerings are enhanced by strong leadership within its schools. This year, two new principals were welcomed at the public high schools: Dr. Christina Lapnow of Deltona and Julian Doster of Pine Ridge. Lapnow and Doster bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to their Title 1 schools, which serve a large number of students from low-income families. At Trinity Christian Academy, Karen Neher, in her sixth year as Head of School, continues to provide dynamic and transformative leadership. Each leader shares the goal of ensuring every student is safe and receives a high-quality education, preparing them for life beyond high school- whether that means college, vocational training, or military service.
Christina Lapnow Leads the Wolf Pack
Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Dr. Christina Lapnow is now fully invested in Deltona High School’s success. She began her 20-year career as a Language Arts teacher and served as Deltona’s Assistant Principal of Data. While data is critical, Lapnow knows that “leadership is what moves people together,” and bringing people together can’t be done without enthusiasm.
“Our school spirit is palpable. There’s a certain energy on our campus,” states Christina. The culture Lapnow leads is one in which
every adult is there to lift the students up. She proudly echoes, “our kids are smart, funny, and creative.” She wants every student to have something “to tie them to the school,” like band, the arts, a sport, or a club. “Every day successes help students become better versions of themselves so they are thriving after high school,” says Lapnow.
Building a Stronger Wolf Community
While she finds tremendous satisfaction in her new role, Lapnow says, “There are always challenges in our field.” Deltona achieved an A grade for the first time in the 2023-2024 school year. She attributes this to the entire team. “It’s a big deal for the students, the staff, and the community.” Now,
one of the challenges is maintaining continuous growth and the school’s 99.7% graduation rate.
However, she has adopted the philosophy set forth by Mike Micallef, Deltona’s previous principal, that they “view the challenges as a team and support each other.” Through collaboration, they become stronger. “I truly believe I have the most amazing staff and team,” Christina declares.
As the mother of two, Elizabeth (7) and Johnny (5), Lapnow approaches home life with the same energy and excitement as her professional role. The family enjoys the beach, hiking, and taking road trips. “My kids and I love finding everyday adventures and having fun together.” Lapnow sees the beauty of the world through the eyes of her children and the 1,750 students she is entrusted with.
Deltona High School’s Principal Dr. Christina Lapnow
Julian Doster Leads the Panthers
Miami native Julian Doster wanted to pursue a career that he felt more passion for than he did as an account executive for the CBS and ABC networks. He found what he was looking for as a substitute teacher and then as a middle school math teacher. After earning his master’s degree, Doster became the assistant principal at New Smyrna Beach High School.
Being new to both the Deltona community and Pine Ridge High, Doster knows the power of relationships is necessary not only for a smooth transition but
also for the school to continue its academic success momentum.
“The key to this world we’re living in is relationships,” Doster says. “I try to be as supportive as I can and work hard to give the kids a positive experience while keeping them safe.” He also understands that “just knowing a student’s name is powerful.”
Keeping the Panthers on the Rise
Doster, who describes the students as pleasant and welcoming, has challenged himself to ensure “all of these young people are hearing messages of being kind to one another.” He believes in celebrating doing the right thing. Whether it’s getting to class on time, picking up trash, or a class
academic achievement, he’s making positive recognition of students a part of the school’s culture.
Safety is paramount. “There is a correlation between school safety and teaching them to be successful adults,” says Doster. He knows this can’t be done without the faculty and staff that serve as models for the students.
Doster and his wife, Stephanie, have two sons, Ethan, who recently joined the Coast Guard, and Josh, a high school junior. When he is away from campus, Doster enjoys golfing, boating, and cooking, especially Cuban food like his favorite, Picadillo. Just as he has done with his sons, Doster hopes to make a positive impact on the almost 1,700 young people he encounters daily.
Karen Neher Leads the Eagles
Karen Neher got her start in education by coaching basketball in Lawrenceville, Virginia. Her rapport with the team led to her being offered a PE teacher position, which led to her becoming the athletic director and middle school director. Neher later moved to Deltona, where her gift as a visionary has flourished in her position as Head of School at Trinity Christian Academy. “I love my job. It’s a calling,” she says.
During Neher’s tenure, the K2-12 interdenominational school’s enrollment has risen to over 700, with a waiting list for many grades. Trinity has already outgrown its new preschool building. “If the foundation hadn’t been there,” she says, referring to before taking the lead, “the growth wouldn’t be possible.”
Soaring with the Eagles
With a 100% graduation rate, Neher describes Trinity as a “special place.” A favorite part of her job is when alumni visit and share how the school positively impacted them. She also enjoys finding ways to turn student and staff ideas into reality, leading to a guitar course and bowling and fishing teams.
The school meets its students’ academic and spiritual needs and offers a
wide variety of classes found in larger schools. Converting a storage shed into a vocational building made electrical and machinery courses possible. A popular culinary arts class utilizes the baseball concession stand. Neher acknowledges, “We’re not immune to society’s problems just because we’re a Christian school. The difference is we can hug and pray with our students.” However, “all educators have the obligation to keep the children safe.” Trinity now has a closed campus with an intercom system, cameras, and two security officers.
While Neher believes she was placed in her role “for this time,” she and her husband, Scott, travel as often as possible to visit her adult sons. Jacob lives in Virginia, and Caleb, the father of her two granddaughters, lives in Georgia.
Empowered and Empowering
All three school leaders — Lapnow, Doster and Neher attribute their leadership journey to someone they served under who saw their natural attributes and potential. Now, it’s their turn to pay it forward by encouraging the thousands of students they serve to experience success in and beyond high school. n
Trinity Christian Academy’s Head of School Karen Neher
Pine Ridge High School’s Principal Julian Doster
BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY
An International Meeting to Boost Ecotourism and TourismDevelopment
During a visit of dignitaries and entrepreneurs from the Domin ican Republic to Florida last fall, the mayors of Deltona, Florida—Santiago Ávila, and of Juan Dolio, Guayacanes, Dominican Republic —Noel Cedeño, met to discuss potential initiatives that could benefit both cities.
“Whether walking, biking, or exploring our canals, there’s something special about experiencing the natural beauty of Deltona,” said Mayor Ávila. “I’m excited about the potential to attract visitors from all over the world to enjoy our hidden gems.”
Mayor Ávila also took the opportunity to underscore the importance of the Hispanic community in Deltona. “Dominicans have played a vital role in our city, significantly contributing to our culture, economy, and diversity.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Noel Cedeño shared his vision of continuing to promote Guayacanes and its renowned Juan Dolio beach as an international tourism benchmark.
“This visit not only reinforces our commitment to tourism in Juan Dolio, Guayacanes, but also demonstrates our support for Dominicans in the diaspora residing in the beautiful city of Deltona,” said Mayor Cedeño. He also expressed gratitude for Deltona’s support of the Dominican community living in the city and Volusia County.
Mayor Santiago Ávila emphasized Deltona’s impressive natural features, positioning the city as an ideal ecotourism destination. With its network of scenic trails, interconnected lakes, canals and unique natural landscapes, Deltona offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and families seeking outdoor activities.
This meeting between Mayors Santiago Ávila and Noel Cedeño marks the beginning of a collaboration that promises to benefit both cities in terms of tourism, economic development, and cultural promotion. Through joint efforts, Deltona and Juan Dolio, Guayacanes have the potential to establish themselves as models of innovation and cooperation in the international tourism industry. n
l-r: Mayor of Deltona, Santiago Ávila, and Mayor Noel Cedeño.
Right (l-r): Mayor Ávila, My Deltona Magazine Publisher Perla Bello-Crosby, and Mayor Cedeño.
Mayor of Juan Dolio, Guayacanes, Noel Cedeño
COMMUNITY CALENDAR & EVENTS
#DELTONAFUN
JANUARY
2025 MAYOR’S FITNESS CHALLENGE
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona, FL
Let’s Get Active, Deltona! It’s a great way to connect with fellow Deltona residents and enjoy fitness-focused activities around our vibrant city. Register now: www.deltonafl.gov/668/Mayors-Fitness-Challenge
Wednesday • January 8 – March 15
BACKYARD POLLINATORSPLANTING FOR BEES AND BUTTERFLIES
Lyonia Environmental Center 2150 Eustace Avenue, Deltona, FL
FREE Want to attract bees and butterflies to your garden? Attend this class to learn how to do just that. Not only are they a delight to watch, but you can find out how beneficial they are for your garden and the environment. This program is recommended for adults.
Saturday • January 25
11 AM–12 PM
CELEBRATE THE MANDR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona, FL
FREE Join us for a fun, educational, and inspiring event honoring Dr. King’s legacy! Enjoy bounce houses, face painting, sweets, vendors, exciting shows, and more! Bring your family and friends.
Sunday • January 19 11 AM–2 PM
BEAT THE WINTER BLUES HIKE
Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Avenue, Deltona, FL
FREE Get outside, breathe some fresh air and learn about Florida’s unique scrub habitat as we hike the blue trail of Lyonia Preserve. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, wear closed-toed shoes, bring water, and be prepared to hike approximately 2 miles on unpaved sugar sand trails. This hike is recommended for ages 10 and up.
FREE The City of Deltona presents the Deltona Amphitheater Concert Series featuring SMB Band Amazing live music, dancing, and so much fun! Food trucks will be available for food purchases.
Saturday • February 8 • 7–9 PM
BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB –DELTONA
The Center At Deltona 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona, FL
Join us on the 2nd Friday of each month for comedy shows.
Admission: $8 advance | $15 day of show (+ 2-item minimum purchase)
Ages: 18+ Friday • February 14 • 8 PM
DELTONA
LOVE YOUR HEART 5K
Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex in Deltona 1200 Saxon Blvd, Deltona, FL
The City of Deltona presents the Love Your Heart 5K Walk and Run that benefits the American Heart Association.
For more information or to register, visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Deltona/ DeltonaLoveYourHeart5K
Saturday • February 22 8–11 AM
MARCH
MUJER SANA 2025
Centro Internacional de la Familia de Deltona 2886 Elkcam Blvd. Deltona, FL
La reunión de amigas más grande de la Florida Central.
Regístrate en www.eventomujersana.com
Saturday • March 8 • 8 AM – 5 PM
BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB –DELTONA
The Center At Deltona 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona, FL
Join us on the 2nd Friday of each month for comedy shows.
Admission: $8 advance | $15 day of show (+ 2-item minimum purchase)
Ages: 18+
Friday • March 14 • 8 PM
HCCCFL ANNUAL REGIONAL HEALTHCARE AWARDS
The Center At Deltona 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona, FL
A Community Recognition event presented by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida.
