My Deltona Magazine - Summer 2026

B I LI N G UAL MAGA Z I N E

DELTONA, FLORIDA | VOLUSIA COUNTY

The Greater Deltona Community Resource

Summer Fun Continues

Q UA R T E R LY

MYD ELTO NAMAGAZI N E .CO M

FREE

AT DELTONA'S PARKS

DELTONA'S NEXT CHAPTER

INFRASTRUCTURE • SERVICES • QUALITY OF LIFE

HEALTHY START

READY FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

SEE INSIDE >

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ESTABLISHED 2022 VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 SUMMER 2026 | QUARTERLY

ANDREW VAN TILBORGH

This Issue was published by My Sanford Magazine, LLC dba My Deltona Magazine, with project management by: ABOUT THE

FOUNDER SOBRE LA

FUNDADORA LET TE R

from the

EDITOR Dear Readers, Summer in Deltona always brings a special feeling. With children out of school, many families take the opportunity to travel, visit loved ones, or enjoy a little more time together. For others, summer is the perfect time to stay close to home and enjoy the beautiful parks, playgrounds, trails, open spaces, and outdoor areas our city has to offer.

As back-to-school season approaches, we welcome a fresh start for students, families, teachers, and our entire community. In this edition of My Deltona Magazine, I am happy to share stories, local businesses, family resources, and features that celebrate Deltona’s growth, services, and quality of life.

Editor in Chief & Founder Perla Bello-Crosby WAT C H

DELTONA TV

of Deltona Awards Gala on October 7, 2026, at The Center at Deltona.

Thank you to our readers, advertisers, contributors, and community partners who make My Deltona Magazine possible.

Your support allows us to continue sharing positive stories and celebrating what makes Deltona special.

Healthy Start: Ready for A New School Year Cover Story: Deltona’s Next Chapter – Investing in Infrastructure, Services, and Quality of Life

9

Gimenez & Carrillo Attorney’s at Law: Over Two Decads of Legal Experience

10 A Latin Community Plaza on the Providence Corridor

Branding Art Director Qistina Hullon Digital Marketing MedRed Solutions Web Development One Source X

Daniella Hume, Mastropieces Productions Daniela Kerr Andrew Van Tilborgh Contributors Mary Boza Crimmins Perla Bello-Crosby Daniela Kerr Jennifer Luce Claudia Mundlos My Deltona Magazine Staff

PROUD PARTNER OF

Stay tuned for our next edition, featuring the finalists and winners of the 2nd Annual Best of Deltona Awards of Excellence. Reserve your seat for the Awards Gala and join us as we celebrate community excellence.

See you on the red carpet!

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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.

FOLLOW US ADVERTISING 407.801.3432 info@mydeltonamagazine.com

TAB LE O F CO NTE NTS 6

Marketing Director Brian Ambrosini Art Director Renée Blair

I also want to remind you that the official Best of Deltona 2026 ballot is open through August 1, 2026. Our finalists and winners will be revealed during the Best

4

Managing Editor Jennifer Luce

Photographers David Carvajal

12 Make the Most of Summertime at Deltona’s Parks, Before Back-to-School and After 16 The Volusia County Hispanic Association Celebrates 30 Years of Community Impact 19 #DeltonaFun: Community Calendar & Events 20 Deltona Business Directory: Where 2 Eat & Drink 23 8 Ways to Enjoy an Active Senior Lifestyle in Deltona: Local Places, Activities, and Resources to Stay Healthy, Connected, and Engaged

ON THE COVER Mayor Santiago Avila Jr., City Manager Doc Dougherty, and City of Deltona employees at City Hall.

PHOTO BY:

David Carvajal

2 | M Y D E LT O N A M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2026

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t r a t S y h t l a He READY FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

BY M Y D E LTO N A M AGA Z I N E S TA F F

B

ack-to-school season brings excitement, but it also brings changes for many families.

After summer days, travel, camp, and later nights, children begin returning to early mornings, homework, sports, and busy schedules.

A successful school year starts long before the first bell rings. By focusing on a few simple tips, families can help children feel healthier, more prepared, and ready to thrive in the new school year!

1

Start with the Basics

Before school begins, parents can plan ahead by scheduling physicals, eye exams, dental visits, and complete any health forms needed for school or sports. This is also a good time to make sure immunizations, and medical records are up to date.

2

Bring Back the Routine

One of the biggest adjustments after summer is getting back into a healthy sleep routine. Adjusting bedtime to an earlier hour before school starts can help children ease back into a regular schedule.

A steady routine can also make mornings easier for the whole family.

3 4

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Fuel the School Day

Breakfast, water, and healthy snacks can help children get through a long school day. Smart choices like fruit, yogurt, whole grains, and balanced lunches can help children stay focused and energized.

Keep Kids Moving

Children spend many hours sitting in classrooms or using screens.

Outdoor play, sports, walks, bike rides, or time at one of Deltona’s

parks can help children stay active and build healthy habits.

5

Confidence Starts at Home

A new school year can be exciting, but some children may feel nervous about a new teacher, new classmates, or a different routine.

Taking a few minutes to listen and offer reassurance can help them feel supported.

Even during busy weeks, simple family routines can make a difference. Sharing dinner, taking a short walk, reading before bed, or talking about the school day can help build strong family connections that last far beyond the school year.

Back-to-school is about more than supplies and schedules. It’s a fresh start, a chance to establish healthy routines that set children up for a successful year ahead! n ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL

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COVE R STO RY

DELTONA’S NEXT CHAPTER

Investing in Infrastructure, Services, and Quality of Life

D

eltona is planning for long-term growth. For years, the city has served as a commuter community with many residents traveling outside its borders for work, healthcare, and entertainment. Today, it is focusing on infrastructure, services, economic development, and quality-of-life improvements.

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DAVID CARVAJAL

BY M A RY B OZ A C R I M M I N S

Mayor Santiago Avila describes Deltona as “Central Florida’s workforce,” noting that the city experiences “approximately $1.8 billion in annual economic leakage” as residents spend much of their income in other municipalities. As Volusia County’s largest city, city leaders are focused on creating more opportunities for residents closer to home.

From Planning to Action

Both Avila and City Manager Doc Dougherty see Deltona’s potential to become a stronger model for municipal growth and service. As Dougherty described, Deltona is “finding its mojo” through professional government, stronger customer service, and practical planning. He also credits the city employees across all departments, saying they are equipped to “bring about positive change.”

DAVID CARVAJAL

At just 30 years old, Deltona is still young. Dougherty points out that “growing pains have been experienced.” One way to address those pains is through fiscal responsibility. He describes how every budget line item is scrutinized. The philosophy is to “not waste tax dollars on public agendas and keep excellence at the forefront.”

Some deem allocating funds for needs that will certainly arise as wasteful. Yet both leaders understand that it is critical for money to be spent in areas that will yield future benefits. “Catastrophes are averted when investments in infrastructure are made earlier,” said Dougherty.

Addressing aging infrastructure is an immediate priority, particularly in neighborhoods affected by flooding.

Mayor Avila has met with families who were forced from their homes during the holidays because of flood damage,

Mayor Santiago Avila

underscoring the human impact of deferred infrastructure investment. In response, having updated wastewater facilities is a high priority. The city has a state-of-the-art facility that draws experts from all over. City administration is working to identify long-term solutions, invest responsibly, and reduce future risks for residents and businesses.

Modern infrastructure is essential not only for protecting residents but also for supporting future economic growth. While “mom-and-pop”

businesses are a vital part of Deltona’s culture, a city with a population of 100,000 should have “large commercial tracts of land” with big box stores and restaurants.

To support that growth, an economic development director has been hired to attract new and complementary businesses. Momentum continues to build as Amazon expands its operations, with a third facility now under construction. The city’s second distribution center was the first of its kind in Florida to serve customers statewide. continued next page

M Y D E LT O N A M A G A Z I N E . C O M | M Y D E LT O N A M A G A Z I N E | 7

COVE R STO RY

City Manager Doc Dougherty

“There are no tax cuts for Amazon,” said Avila. Dougherty added that the “tax revenue is invested in the community.” The result is a cycle of growth: new jobs increase local spending, stronger consumer demand supports existing businesses and attracts new investments, and the city benefits from a broader tax base.

While part of the long-term vision is rooted in becoming a commercial center, it is also about creating a more family-oriented community. In addition to investing $8.5 million in parks, city leaders are working to improve access to healthcare for children and young families. The mayor cites attracting a pediatric hospital with a maternity wing as a priority to reduce the need for residents to travel 45 minutes or more for care.

Avila said, “The future of Deltona is one in which residents no longer need to leave Deltona to find opportunities.” Part of that vision is the potential creation of Uptown Deltona, a proposed mixed-use district intended to attract new businesses, create higher-paying jobs, and establish a distinct city identity. If realized, the walkable district would feature a mix of restaurants, shops, offices, and public gathering spaces, designed to bring more daily activities closer to home.

Looking Ahead With new investments underway and a long-term vision taking shape, Deltona is positioning itself for sustainable growth. Efforts to modernize infrastructure, expand the local economy, and

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improve the quality of life are laying the groundwork for the city’s future.

“A positive spirit is increasing daily throughout the city, and we are on the path to reaching our goals,” said Dougherty. “It’s a great time to be in Deltona.” n

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DAVID CARVAJAL

continued from page 7

Gimenez & Carrillo Attorneys at Law

OVER TWO DECADES OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE

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egal issues can be overwhelming and time sensitive. At Gimenez & Carrillo Attorneys at Law, the focus is on helping individuals and families across Florida understand their options, navigate complex legal processes, and take the next step with confidence.

Led by founding partners Angel L. Gimenez, Esq., and Jose I. Carrillo, Esq., and supported by their legal team of attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants, the firm has represented Florida clients for more than 20 years. Their work includes personal injury claims, bankruptcy, foreclosure defense, immigration, insurance disputes, and real estate closings.

The firm emphasizes clear communication and personal attention. When a client’s health, finances, home, or immigration status is at stake, Gimenez & Carrillo takes time to explain the process, stay engaged, and provide practical legal guidance from start to finish.

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With bilingual support in English and Spanish, the firm makes communication easier for clients who want to feel informed and understood throughout the legal process.

With offices in Miami, Orlando, and other Florida communities, Gimenez & Carrillo represents clients throughout the state while providing local access when needed. Now, with the opening of its new Deltona office, the firm is expanding its presence in West Volusia and bringing experienced legal representation closer to local residents and families.

Founding partners Angel L. Gimenez, Esq., and Jose I. Carrillo, Esq.

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A Latin Community Plaza ON THE PROVIDENCE CORRIDOR

BY DA N I E L A K E R R

A

long Providence Boulevard, quick errands often turn into familiar conversations. The plaza at 1870 Providence Blvd. has become one of Deltona’s recognizable neighborhood anchors.

Built in 1984 and refreshed in 2007, its two-story façade still rises a little above the surrounding area, a familiar building many residents recognize before the street number comes into focus. Yet what truly defines this plaza is not only the building itself, but the people and businesses that have given it life over the years.

The plaza also supports everyday wellbeing. Regulars stop into Healthy

Healthy Haus

NJ Barber Shop

shop, greet, repeat.

Coqui Bakery

Haus for protein shakes or açaí bowls, then drift next door to NJ Barber Shop or New Looks Dominican Salon, where fresh hairstyles come paired with neighborhood news and friendly conversation.

In a city long shaped as a suburban community, these small, repeated stops help build belonging in real time.

Beyond the plaza, civic life folds naturally into leisure. Families visiting Deltona Regional Library often extend the afternoon with groceries or a pastry snack run at the Providence Plaza. Weekends ripple outward toward Wes Crile Park and Campbell Park, where soccer games, playground laughter, and shaded picnics echo the same community threads that begin on Providence Boulevard. The geography feels almost intentional. Study, play,

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What gives 1870 Providence Blvd. its deeper resonance is its history as a multicultural business center.

Longtime Deltona residents recall earlier tenants: tax accountants, real estate offices, computer repair shops, and other local services that supported Deltona’s early suburban growth. Now, newer generations encounter a plaza reflecting the city’s growing Caribbean and Latin American community. Both eras come together in the stairwells and storefronts, layered like a neighborhood mosaic.

The Providence corridor is often described as convenient. But convenience alone does not explain why people linger: It is the familiarity of language, aroma, and friendly faces or the ease of walking from library to bakery to park, and recognizing someone at each stop. In a fast-growing city still shaping its identity, the 1870 Providence Plaza is like a living scrapbook of Deltona itself: a place where errands turn into encounters, and commerce becomes community. n ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL

DANIELA KERR

Today, its pulse carries a CaribbeanLatino rhythm. Inside Unidos Supermarket, the air hums with sofrito, ripe fruit, and hot deli staples, drawing families who shop as much for memory as for meals. A few doors down, Coqui Bakery turns out sandwiches and pastries that travel through the city’s small rituals of togetherness: lunch breaks, birthday tables, baptisms, and office potlucks. These storefronts do not simply sell food. They help preserve language, tradition, and the easy familiarity of a tightly knit community.

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MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMERTIME AT DELTONA’S PARKS, B E FO RE BACK-TO -SCH OO L AN D AF TE R

BY P E R L A B E L LO - C R O S BY

S

Thornby Park

ummer always goes by faster than we expect.

Before backpacks, homework, and early mornings return, Deltona families still have time to enjoy the outdoors and create special memories close to home. And even after the school year begins, Deltona’s parks continue to offer students and families a place to play, relax, exercise, and reconnect after busy school days.

MY DELTONA MAGAZINE STAFF

Across the city, Deltona’s parks offer something for every age and every kind of day, from playground time for younger children to basketball, skating, walking trails, splash pad fun, shaded picnic areas, and quiet spaces for families to enjoy together. Whether it is a morning walk, an afternoon at the playground, or a relaxed evening picnic, these parks make it easy to enjoy quality time without traveling far.

Firefighters’

Memorial Park For young children, Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex and Campbell Park are popular options, especially with playgrounds designed for children of different ages and abilities. Open green spaces, slides, and climbing areas make them great places for active play before the school routine begins again and for after-school energy once classes are back in session. Campbell Park also offers a peaceful boardwalk for a family walk, birdwatching, or a simple break from the busy school day, while Wes Crile Park’s seasonal splash pad is a popular place for kids to cool off during the summer, with hours subject to weather and city updates.

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Firefighters’ Memorial Park

Firefighters’ Memorial Park is another family-friendly option for children of all ages. This 11-acre park offers an outdoor basketball court, shaded areas, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and both large and small playgrounds.

Open from sunrise to sunset with free admission, it is a great place for students to enjoy outdoor play, families to gather for a picnic, or friends to spend time together after school.

Families looking for something different can visit Eddie Rios Skate Park, formerly known as Lake Butler Skate Park, which offers a concrete street course for skateboards, inline skates, and BMX bikes, along with nearby recreation amenities. Keysville Dog Park also gives families a place to enjoy time outdoors with their pets. Thornby Park is another beautiful option for those who want a quieter experience with space to play and explore. Known for its all-inclusive Inspiration Playground, the park also offers wooded surroundings, a gazebo, and access to the East Central Regional Rail Trail. With its natural setting and connection to the St. Johns River area,

Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex

Deltona’s parks continue to grow along with the community. As highlighted in this edition’s cover story, the city is investing approximately $8.5 million in park improvements. Projects are already underway, including new pickleball courts at Harris Saxon Park, improvements to the baseball field and

MY DELTONA MAGAZINE STAFF

Keysville Dog Park

Thornby Park is a peaceful place to walk, explore, and enjoy a slower afternoon together.

Deltona’s parks also reflect a growing focus on accessibility and inclusion, with all-inclusive playgrounds featured at several city parks, including Campbell Park, Firefighters’ Memorial Park, and Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex.

the school routine returns. And once classes begin, those same parks are still there for after-school play, weekend outings, walks, picnics, and family time close to home. Before the school year begins again — and long after it does — Deltona’s parks are ready. n

Eddie Rios Skate Park

basketball court at Manny Rodriguez Park, and a newly acquired transport vehicle at Veterans Park that will soon be refurbished for display. Together, these projects are helping shape an even more vibrant future for Deltona.

As summer winds down, Deltona’s parks give families another reason to get outside, spend time together, and enjoy the simple moments before

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The Volusia County Hispanic Association Celebrates

30 Years of Community Impact

BY J E N N I F E R LU C E

Founded in 1995, VCHA has evolved alongside the community, helping connect families with resources while celebrating Hispanic heritage and encouraging community involvement.

Thirty years later, that mission remains at the heart of everything the organization does.

Today, the organization is led by President Cassie Landron, owner of Anchor and Vine Consulting; Vice President Elaine Daniels, a financial advisor with Edward Jones; Ambassador Damaris Garcia of USA Mobile Fleet & Auto Spa; and Shanice Solomon, who manages marketing and communications through social media, outreach, and graphic design. Together, they work alongside local businesses, nonprofits, and community partners to serve families and strengthen the community.

Among VCHA’s best-known initiatives is its annual Back-to-School Bash, held in partnership with the City of Deltona. Each year, more than 1,500 students receive backpacks, school supplies, health screenings, free haircuts, and bilingual educational re-

sources before heading back to the classroom. For many local families, the event offers support, encouragement, and a strong start to the new school year.

For President Cassie Landron, the Back-toSchool Bash represents everything VCHA stands for. l-r: Shanice Solomon, Damaris Garcia, “It is truly heartwarming to see so many local businesses Elaine Daniels, and Cassie Landron and do not aim to be everything to and community organizations eager everyone. Instead, we want to support to give back,” she said. “The greatest our partners in the impactful work impact is seeing the gratitude on parthey do.” ents’ faces as they walk their children around to fill their backpacks. Helping As VCHA celebrates its 30th annimore than 1,500 students every year is versary, Landron says the occasion is exactly why we do this.” about much more than looking back.

It is about preserving a legacy while While the Back-to-School Bash is continuing to build for the future. one of the organization’s signature events, its work continues year-round.

“To me, this is all about legacy,” she VCHA has provided winter coats for said. “It’s honoring the families from local children, donated professional 1995 while making sure the next uniforms to Deltona High School’s generation has a community that truly Leaders in Action program, partnered supports them.” with local firefighters to assist families following house fires, supportAs VCHA prepares for its anniversary ed emergency housing efforts, and celebration, the event will also honor collaborated with organizations such Hispanic families, leaders, volunteers, as Renae’s Resources to help young businesses, and community partners adults prepare for independent living. throughout Volusia County who continue to contribute to the region’s culture, “Our priority is to use our signature events as a means of funding other or- service, and growth. As it enters its next chapter, VCHA remains committed to ganizations to continue the vital work empowering families and building an that falls outside our specific scope,” even stronger community. n Landron said. “We value collaboration

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LEGINSKA HIDALGO WITH DEUSM PHOTOGRAPHY

F

or three decades, the Volusia County Hispanic Association has served the Deltona community by bringing people together through service, culture, education, and partnerships. As VCHA celebrates 30 years of service, it honors those whose dedication and shared vision have made a lasting impact throughout the community.

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8 WAYS

a n o t l e inD

TO ENJOY AN ACTIVE SENIOR LIFESTYLE

Local places, activities, and resources to stay healthy, connected, and engaged.

BY C L AU D I A M U N D LO S

W BOTTOM: DANIELLA HUME, MASTROPIECES PRODUCTIONS

hether you’re retired or simply have more time to enjoy life, Deltona offers many opportunities to stay active, meet new people, learn something new, and enjoy the community. Here are eight great ways to make the most of what Deltona has to offer:

1

Enjoy the Outdoors

Take advantage of the cooler morning hours to enjoy a walk, spend time in nature, or relax in one of Deltona’s outdoor spaces. It’s an easy way to stay active while enjoying the fresh air.

2 3 4

Discover Community Events

From concerts at the Deltona Amphitheater and cultural festivals to health expos and seasonal celebrations, Deltona’s calendar is filled with activities for all ages.

Visit the Deltona Regional Library

The library offers much more than books. Enjoy guest speakers, technology classes, book clubs, arts and crafts, and educational programs throughout the year.

Stay Active with Local Fitness & Wellness Programs

Many healthcare providers, fitness centers, and community organizations offer exercise classes, wellness programs, health screenings, and educational seminars designed to help adults stay healthy and active.

5

Connect at the Deltona Senior Center

Operated by the Council on Aging of Volusia County, the Deltona Senior Center offers social activities, games, educational programs, weekday lunches, and special events. It’s a great place to meet new friends and stay engaged in the community.

Lyonia Preserve

6

Experience Nature at Lyonia Preserve

Enjoy a peaceful walk through Lyonia Preserve with your spouse, partner, or bestie. The trails, wildlife, and educational programs at Lyonia Environmental Center make it a great place to enjoy nature and spend time together.

7

Enjoy a Movie, Lunch, or Coffee

Treat yourself to the latest movies at Epic Theatres of West Volusia, where adults 60 and older may receive discounted ticket prices. Make it a full outing by meeting friends for breakfast, lunch, or coffee at one of Deltona’s local restaurants or cafés.

8

Volunteer, Give Back & Meet New Friends

Volunteering is a rewarding way to stay active, meet new people, and make a difference. Many local nonprofits, churches, schools, and civic organizations welcome volunteers and offer opportunities to stay engaged while building lasting friendships. n ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL

M Y D E LT O N A M A G A Z I N E . C O M | M Y D E LT O N A M A G A Z I N E | 23

My Deltona Magazine 107 South Oak Ave. Sanford, FL 32771

Quality Care You Can Trust. Close to Home.

Halifax Health | UF Health–Medical Center of Deltona offers a state-of-the-art surgery center equipped with leading-edge technology and staffed with the expertise of UF Health board-certified surgeons. Procedures include: › Maxillofacial › Cardiac Catheterization › Endovascular › Bariatric › Orthopedic & Vascular › Colorectal › Breast › Pain Medicine › Gastrointestinal › Endocrine › Cancer › General Surgery

Meet our UF Health team:

Jason J. Arellano, MD General & Bariatric Surgeon

Alberto Bursian, MD Pain Medicine Specialist

Roynny Sanchez Gil, MD General, Breast, & Endocrine Surgeon

Andrew Hayden, MD Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine

J. Richard R. Rhodes, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedics: 386.457.6480 | Pain Medicine: 386.241.1060 | Surgical Services: 386.457.6384 3400 Halifax Crossing Blvd., Suite 200 Deltona, FL 32725

halifaxhealth.org/deltona

Michael Yacoub, MD Vascular Surgeon