Coming Soon!
Behavorial Health coming soon to our Deland location!
How to Know Where to Go ASK AN ER EXPERT:
Whether it’s an everyday accident or a life-threatening emergency, when you need fast medical care, every minute counts — so it’s important to know where to go.
Luckily, there’s an AdventHealth emergency room or urgent care center close by. As the area’s #1 ER, AdventHealth’s locations in West Volusia can help you feel whole again quickly.
URGENT VS. EMERGENCY
ROOM CARE
The main difference between urgent and ER care is the severity of the illnesses and injuries they’re equipped to treat.
If symptoms are severe — chest pain, a head injury or major trauma — a trip to the emergency room is just what the doctor ordered. With the most ER locations in the area, AdventHealth’s full-service emergency rooms are staffed with expert emergency care physicians and compassionate team members ready to provide whole-person care.
Nancy Vazquez, APRN, is a nurse practitioner at the AdventHealth DeLand ER. She says, “Our emergency rooms have the latest medical technology to handle complex conditions. We’re ready to care for you, no matter what brings you to our ER.”
If you’re feeling sick or dealing with a minor injury (not a serious or life-threatening condition), your best option is to visit an AdventHealth Centra Care facility. With multiple
convenient locations in West Volusia, they’ve offered quality urgent care for more than 35 years. You can walk in without an appointment or make a reservation online.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT AN URGENT CARE CENTER
Urgent care facilities are for non-emergency situations. This kind of care is meant to be convenient, with hours available outside of regular doctor’s office hours, like on evenings and weekends.
Urgent care providers can prescribe medications, suture wounds, perform basic tests and even provide vaccinations. Conditions that might bring you to an urgent care center include cold symptoms, ear infections, minor sprains and strains, strep throat and urinary tract infections.
WHEN TO VISIT AN ER
When a medical emergency strikes, it’s normal to feel shaken and scared, but heartfelt ER care is nearby and available 24/7, including weekends and holidays.
“In the ER, we know you’re worried, stressed and have lots of questions. That’s why we treat you with compassion and keep you informed at every step,” Nancy says.
As the region’s #1 ER, AdventHealth is always ready. With advanced heart attack interventions and the area’s leading stroke care, they offer trusted ER expertise.
Call 911 or go to the ER right away if
you experience a serious injury or sudden severe symptoms, including anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions, heart attack or stroke symptoms, loss of consciousness, poisoning, severe burns and more.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE ER
When you arrive at the ER, you’ll go through a prioritization process called triage. AdventHealth Fish Memorial emergency physician Dr. Rajiv Bahl explains, “Triaging can make all the difference for a patient in critical condition, but it can sometimes mean a wait for a less-critical patient who may have arrived earlier. We do everything we can to ensure you get the efficient, expert care you deserve.”
STAY CONNECTED FOR VIRTUAL CARE
With the AdventHealth app, you can see a doctor wherever you need one, no matter the time of day. Get lab results delivered right to your pocket, renew prescriptions from the comfort of your couch, pay your bill conveniently and have your medical records at hand. The easy-to-use AdventHealth app makes getting care on your terms simpler than ever.
QUICK AND CONVENIENT CARE, RIGHT IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
When every minute counts, you can count on the AdventHealth experts. Whether you need urgent care or emergency attention, we’ll help get you on the path to recovery and feeling whole. n
JOSEPH GRIFFIN
Investing in People, Not Just in Property
BY MARY BOZA CRIMMINS
Deltona resident Joseph Griffin isn’t defined by his service in the Army National Guard, though he says the military helped make him the man he is today. He isn’t defined by being detained by sheriff’s deputies while jogging and then, in an ironic twist, being offered a job with the same department. His experience as a combat medic and nurse doesn’t define him either, but it’s a reflection of his desire to help others.
While Griffin describes himself as an investor, what truly defines him is his devotion to family and his mission to help others scale and grow their business.
A Life Built on Service
Serving as a combat medic in Afghanistan and going to nursing school while still in the Army taught him resilience and how to deal with adversity. These traits helped him while working as a registered nurse to begin learning about real estate. “Ninety percent of millionaires have real estate in common,” Griffin says.
He applied his knowledge and began seeing returns. Now known as the “Tax Deed Wolf,” he teaches others how to build wealth through the tax deed process. Another of his ventures, Wolves of Real Estate, buys homes for cash.
Griffin emphasizes that you don’t need a license to invest in tax deeds — just the right skills. “One of the misunderstandings is that you kick people out of homes, which you don’t do,” he explains. “And the other misunderstanding is that you have to have a lot of money.”
But he also wants to make it clear that it took seven years of persistence for him to become an “overnight success.”
His advice to other entrepreneurs? “It’s not going to be easy,” he says. “But you need to invest in the right mentors, hang out with the right crowd and soak up new things.”
A Life Fueled by Purpose
Ultimately, he wants to be a “beacon of hope to show people that life can be a lot better.” And he should know. Griffin never knew his mother and his father was in jail. Because of his gratitude and resilience, he has made sure his grandmother who raised him has a home and no longer has to work.
Now he and his wife, Dazley, are millionaires “helping other people achieve the same success.” The couple has three daughters and a fourth on the way. “I want to make sure my girls know how to maneuver through life and deal with adversity.”
The entrepreneur is a firm believer that too many people are stuck working jobs they don’t enjoy. “God doesn’t put us on this earth to work 60-plus hours a week and then at age 70, start doing what we want to do.” He stresses the importance of personal growth: “Focus on yourself mentally, spiritually, and physically.”
He values quality time and a slower pace of life. “I like visiting countries where life feels different and people don’t argue over the small stuff.” He and Dazely have a home in Puerto Rico where he enjoys the simple pleasures, like picking fruit in the backyard.
Deltona is home, though, and is fortunate to count Joseph Griffin as a resident — proof that grit, growth, and giving back can all happen right here! n
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
L-R: Ricky DiGiacomo, Tavious Washington, Francis Nieves, Joseph Griffin, Jessica DiGiacomo, Dazley Griffin, Vanessa Luna, and Chris Lemay
ESTABLISHED 2022
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3 SUMMER 2025 | QUARTERLY
This Issue was published by My Sanford Magazine, LLC dba My Deltona Magazine, with project management by:
Editor in Chief & Founder
Dear Readers,
Summer has arrived in Deltona, bringing the perfect opportunity to explore our parks, outdoor spaces, and family-friendly activities. With the kids on vacation, it’s a wonderful time to enjoy special moments together right here in our community.
In this edition, we proudly feature on our cover, a resilient and inspiring individual: Joseph Griffin. His story is one you won’t want to miss!
From exciting local attractions to special seasonal highlights, we’ve packed this issue with plenty to enjoy. We highlight on our newly signed partnership with the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce, our Health & Wellness section offers valuable tips, and there’s even more inside to keep you entertained all season long.
Thank you for your continued support. Our commitment to celebrating and serving Deltona’s diverse and dynamic community grows stronger with every edition.
Happy Summertime!
¡Feliz Verano! SOBRE LA FUNDADORA
Queridos lectores,
El verano ha llegado a Deltona, trayendo la oportunidad perfecta para explorar nuestros parques, espacios al aire libre y actividades familiares. Con los niños de vacaciones, es un tiempo maravilloso para disfrutar de momentos significativos juntos, aquí mismo en nuestra comunidad.
En esta edición, presentamos con orgullo en nuestra portada a una persona resiliente e inspiradora: Joseph Griffin. ¡Su historia es algo que no te debes perder!
Desde divertidas atracciones locales hasta destacados eventos, esta edición está repleta de artículos para disfrutar. Nuestra recién alianza con la Cámara de Comercio DeLand & Greater West Volusia, junto con nuestra sección de Salud y Bienestar que nos ofrece valiosos consejos, y mucho más para mantenerte entretenido durante toda esta temporada.
Gracias por tu continuo apoyo. Nuestro compromiso de celebrar y servir a la diversa y dinámica comunidad de Deltona se fortalece con cada edición.
Perla Bello-Crosby
Managing Editor
Jennifer Luce
Marketing Director
Brian Ambrosini
Art Director
Renée Blair
Branding Art Director
Qistina Hullon
Digital Marketing MedRed Solutions
Web Development
One Source X
Photographers
Daniella Hume, Mastropieces Productions
Gs Katz
Daniela Kerr
Andrew Van Tilborgh
Pete Wilson Photography
Contributors
Mary Boza Crimmins
Perla Bello-Crosby
Charles I. Guarria
Daniela Kerr
Jennifer Luce
My Deltona Magazine Staff
Jason Thompson
Deltona
Joseph Griffin, “The
PHOTO BY: Andrew Van Tilborgh
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Total Service Contracting, Inc.
Cocky Rooster Café & Grill: Breaking Records, Honoring Legacy
BY CHARLES I. GUARRIA
Cocky Rooster Café & Grill is having its best year ever, no small feat for a business that has become a community staple since opening in 2012. Under the leadership of owner Lynette Quiles Li, the restaurant is growing with renewed energy, expanded offerings, and a clear mission to continue the legacy she and her late husband, Perry Li, built together.
In April 2024, Lynette left her position at AdventHealth to join the restaurant full-time, working side by side with Perry. Their goal was to grow the business, with Lynette focusing on operations and day-to-day management. Today, she continues that vision, now leading a tight-knit team that shares her commitment to excellent food and customer service.
That dedication is paying off. “We’ve had the best month on record,” Lynette noted. “In 12 years, we’ve never seen profit margins like this.”
The original café expanded in 2022 with the opening of the Grill next door, which now serves as both a lively bar and an overflow space during peak hours.
The menus for the café and grill are the same. The grill serves beer, wine and “a good line of whiskeys, tequilas, rums,” Ms. Quiles Li noted. It offers daily drink and food specials, hosts event nights and seats overflow from the café.
The café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A big seller off the breakfast menu is the pastelón omelet. It is an omelet layered with seasoned ground beef and sweet plantains, with a cheddar and Jack cheese blend. It is garnished with Pico de Gallo and cilantro aioli. Customers also love the Great American Burger and the classic Traditional Benedict.
Another popular entree is the pot roast. The empanadas are raved about on review sites. There is a prime rib entree on the menu every Friday and Saturday night, and a baker is on-site every day of the week, keeping the café’s bakery well-stocked with treats.
DANIELA KERR
Cocky Rooster Cafe and Grill’s bartender
Dishes from L-R: Great American Burger (modified); Peanut butter cookies; and the Traditional benedict
While nearly all recipes were created by Perry Li, Lynette has brought her own touch to the kitchen, including her take on the restaurant’s rice. “Cooking wasn’t my role before,” she said. “But I’ve stepped into those shoes. You learn fast when you have to.”
She still jokes about how she made breakfast for a customer just before sitting down for this interview, eggs, pancakes, bacon, and hash browns. It’s clear she’s hands-on and proud of it.
What truly sets Cocky Rooster apart is the incredible team behind Lynette. Joe West, her kitchen manager, has stood by her side since day one and remains a pillar of the team. The Cocky Rooster family includes a dedicated team of 28 employees who live and work in the community, some of whom have been with the restaurant for over a decade. The family support also runs deep: her mother handles bookkeeping, her father manages maintenance, and her son, Daniel, now 16, works on Sundays.
“He is very even keeled. He’s very respectful. He’s very smart,” Ms. Quiles Li said of their son. “You know, we made an amazing human.”
“I don’t make my own hours,” Lynette said with a laugh. “The business dictates your time, but the flexibility is there, and I get to pick up my son from school. That means everything.”
Thanks to the unwavering dedication of Ms. Quiles Li, her family, and the hardworking staff, Cocky Rooster Café & Grill continues to succeed. Through
teamwork, passion, and delicious food, they’ve preserved and elevated the restaurant’s legacy as a beloved local favorite, serving Southern comfort food with a Latin flair that the community truly loves. n
Cocky Rooster Café & Grill is located at 1382 Howland Blvd. It is open daily. The café hours are from Sunday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The grill hours are Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
Clockwise from top right: Latin Rice Bowl; Blackened Crab Stuffed Mahi; and “Best Ever” Meatloaf
L to R: Joe “Gunny” West, KM, Daniel Li and Lynette Quiles Li
DELTONA’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Explore
BY DANIELA KERR
This summer, Deltona offers many activities and newly opened spaces, perfect for families, friends, and visitors ready to soak up the sunshine and community spirit. Whether you’re looking for fun ways to stay active, celebrate special moments, or simply enjoy the outdoors, Deltona has you covered.
Spice up the summer season with Latin and Hip-hop Style Dance lessons with Ms. Gigi at the Center of Deltona (https://www.dancewithgigi.com/). Both adult and kids’ classes are available! Let the music and movement energize you. It’s a great way to connect with others and get your body moving.
Cool off at the new splash pad at Wes Crile Park, now open! Pack the sunscreen and let the kids play with refreshing water on hot summer days, open 10am–6pm (closed on Mondays). Wes Crile Park also offers 14 acres of recreation space, including playgrounds, sports courts, a rubberized walking trail, picnic pavilions, and a seasonal splash pad, perfect for a
spontaneous afternoon out. The park also hosts Friday Night Bites every week!
For an educational outdoor experience, visit the Lyonia Environmental Center at 2150 Eustace Ave. The center offers hands-on exhibits, a 425-gallon saltwater aquarium, and live animal ambassadors to help visitors learn about Volusia County’s unique ecosystems. Explore the surrounding Lyonia Preserve by hiking one of three scenic trails, where you might spot Florida scrub jays, gopher tortoises, and other native wildlife. Admission is free. The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 4pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm (closed on Mondays).
Nearby, families seeking even more can take advantage of the wide range of kid-friendly programs offered throughout July, August, and September by the Deltona Family YMCA . Their facility hosts swim lessons, youth sports, and open swim sessions at their outdoor pool, along with summer camps and wellness classes for all ages. The Deltona YMCA also has a newly renovated gym!
Deltona’s annual 4th of July Celebration will return to Dewey O. Boster Park, with festivities beginning at 5pm. Enjoy live music, food trucks, laser tag, zip lines, rock climbing, face painting, and a spectacular fireworks display at 9:15pm.
Finally, movie lovers can look forward to two exciting Movie in the Park nights this summer at Dewey O. Boster Park. On July 18th, enjoy “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” and on August 15th, catch the action-packed movie, “Twisters.” Bring your blankets and chairs for a free family movie night under the stars, complete with popcorn and lemonade while supplies last.
So, this summer, bring your kids and come enjoy Deltona’s outdoor adventures and family fun, all coming together for a season full of sunshine, smiles, and good times! n
Deltona Family YMCA
Splash pad at Wes Crile Park
DELTONA AMPHITHEATER: The New Stage for Entertainment and Community Fun
BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY
The Deltona Amphitheater has quickly become a beloved gathering place for residents and visitors of all ages, offering a fun-filled space for music, dancing, and community celebration. Located beside the Deltona Regional Library and the Lyonia Environmental Center at 2150 Eustace Avenue, this 700-seat outdoor venue has been revitalized as a hub for family-friendly entertainment, cultural events, and local talent.
Since relaunching its concert series, the City of Deltona has hosted a variety of events that bring people together in a spirit of joy and unity, creating a fun environment for both local families and visitors. From Latin jazz and salsa to country rock and nostalgic throwbacks, the amphitheater’s diverse lineup reflects the city’s commitment to cultural inclusion and community spirit.
Earlier this year, more than a hundred attendees danced to the rhythms of Roberto Martinez Classic Grooves Latin Jazz Salsa Band, showcasing the venue’s energetic vibe. The fun continued with performances like The DIVAS of the 70s & 80s, adding a nostalgic flair, while artists like Hollis Dorian delivered crowd-pleasing country rock melodies.
COURTESY
OF THE CITY OF
DELTONA
Above & Opposite Page:
The Lightning Rods perform live at the Amphitheater
The free summer concert series takes place on the second Saturday of each month, year-round, and features live music, delicious food from local food trucks, and free parking.
Special moments have added even more charm to the series. For example, Dance with Gigi led a free dance session during intermission, transforming the event into a lively, interactive experience. Holiday shows like the “Deltona Christmas Concert” have also filled the amphitheater with joyful sounds and cultural traditions.
Built as a collaborative project between Volusia County and the City of Deltona, the amphitheater is located between the Deltona Regional Library and the Lyonia Environmental Center. It also serves as a model of environmentally responsible design. Its walkways with permeable pavement allow rainwater to filter into the ground, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainability.
Want to learn more about upcoming events?
Visit the City of Deltona’s website (https://www.deltonafl.gov/) or follow Deltona TV on social media.
Interested in performing?
Submit your information here: https://www.deltonafl.gov/705/Amphitheater-Concert-Series
Did you know you can rent the amphitheater?
For rental information, contact the Deltona Library at (386) 789-7207.
As part of the City of Deltona’s vision, each concert is carefully selected to showcase artists who connect with the audience and bring the community to life. With every free and open-to-the-public event, the Deltona Amphitheater fulfills its mission as a space where families, friends, neighbors, and visitors can come together to celebrate culture, creativity, and local spirit. n
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
Mental Health & Wellness
A New Era of Care at Family Health Source Behavioral Services
BY JASON THOMPSON DIRECTOR OF MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Family Health Source is proud to announce the upcoming launch of its Behavioral Services division, a transformative initiative designed to meet the growing mental health needs of the Volusia County community. Under the leadership of the Director of Behavioral Health, this new branch will offer a comprehensive suite of programs rooted in empathy, clinical excellence, and community-centered care.
At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to providing accessible, evidence-based mental health services to underserved populations, including veterans and individuals experiencing severe mental illness. The new programs will feature specialized screening protocols for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, ensuring early identification and personalized treatment pathways.
A key focus will be on individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis — a critical period where timely intervention can significantly alter the course of illness. The program will offer intensive, wraparound services that include psychiatric care, therapy, family education, and community support, all designed to promote recovery and long-term stability.
In addition, Family Health Source is launching a cuttingedge depression treatment program that integrates traditional therapy with innovative approaches, including medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and holistic wellness strategies. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, with an emphasis on restoring hope and functionality.
For those living with chronic and severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, the Behavioral Services division will provide structured, long-term care plans. These include medication adherence support, psychoeducation, and community reintegration services, all delivered with compassion and cultural sensitivity.
Veteran services will be a cornerstone of the new offerings, with dedicated programs that address the unique psychological challenges faced by those who have served. Through partnerships with local institutions and veteran organizations, Family Health Source will ensure integrative care that bridges physical and mental health.
By combining clinical expertise with a deep understanding of community needs, Family Health Source Behavioral Services is poised to become a vital resource for Volusia County. This initiative reflects a broader mission: to bring mental health out of the shadows and into the heart of community wellness. n
Coming soon—hope, healing, and a healthier tomorrow.
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
Elsie Méndez:
A Life of Purpose, Leadership, and Faith
BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY
From the boroughs (Neighborhoods) of New York to the heart of Deltona, Elsie Méndez has lived a life defined by purpose, resilience, and a passionate commitment to serving others. As the proud daughter of Ecuadorian immigrants, she grew up watching her father run five successful bakeries, without speaking English. His perseverance and integrity left a lasting mark. “He wasn’t just a business owner,” she recalls, “he was a pillar in the community. I didn’t just see myself as his daughter, I saw myself as part of something bigger. I was a proud Latina with a front-row seat to the American dream.”
But her early journey wasn’t without struggle. As a child, she was bullied in school for being different, planting seeds of doubt about her identity. That began to change at age 11, when her family moved to Ecuador. Immersed in her heritage, she began to heal and embrace her roots. “Becoming bilingual wasn’t just a skill, it became a superpower. It positioned me to lead, bridge communities and influence with empathy and purpose.”
After earning a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Stetson University and working as an assistant principal, Elsie
platform where Hispanic entrepreneurs felt seen and supported.”
Balancing her many roles, businesswoman, mentor, church leader, and wife, requires intentional planning and values-driven living. “I don’t believe in perfect balance,” she explained. “I believe in clear priorities. I use a colorcoded planner, I delegate, and I’ve learned to say no when something doesn’t align with my mission. It’s not about doing it all, it’s about doing what matters most, with purpose and heart”.
felt the need to expand her impact in new ways. “I loved education, but I often felt like a bird in a cage,” she said. “My influence was limited. I knew I was meant to serve, lead, and to innovate in ways the system wouldn’t allow.”
That desire led her to entrepreneurship and advocacy. Today, she channels that passion through LegalShield, a national company offering affordable legal protection and business opportunities. “What drew me to LegalShield was its mission, giving people access to justice,” she said. “But what kept me was the chance to empower others, especially women, to rise and create financial freedom.”
Elsie’s impact extends far beyond business. As First Lady of Iglesia Bautista Anastasis in Deltona, she plays a vital role in her church and family’s ministry. Her faith, she says, is the foundation of everything. “It’s the lens through which I see and respond to the world. Whether I’m in the church, boardroom, or community, I aim to reflect Christ in how I lead.”
One of her proudest accomplishments was her time as President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, where she helped the organization recover from a season of uncertainty. “We rebuilt trust and created a
Her dedication to mentoring other women has brought her immense joy. “There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a woman step into her full potential,” she said. “When they surpass even their own expectations, that’s success.”
In May, Elsie reached a milestone that once lived only in her imagination, speaking on stage at the LegalShield Convention in Baltimore in front of more than 4,000 people. Her powerful reflection from that moment captured the heart of her journey:
“Standing on stage in front of over 4,000 people at the LegalShield Convention in Baltimore was a moment I once only saw in my mind. Years ago, I visualized it, and now, it’s a reality. Never underestimate the power of faith, vision, and consistency. Dreams do come true when you’re willing to do the work.”
To young women, especially those from multicultural backgrounds, Elsie offers this advice: “Your background is not a limitation, it’s a superpower. Lead with a servant’s heart, say yes to what stretches you, and let your story make room for others to rise.”
Elsie Méndez is not only building a business, she’s also building a legacy of faith, empowerment, and transformative leadership right here in Deltona. n
SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH
CUBAN SANDWICHES • EMPANADAS FRESH BAKED BREAD PASTRIES • COFFEE & TEA & MUCH MORE!
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12,
COMMUNITY CALENDAR & EVENTS
#DELTONAFUN
JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER
BONKERZ COMEDY SHOW
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd., Deltona
Get ready for an exciting night filled with laughter. Food & full liquor bar available.
Friday • July 11 • 7–10 PM
Friday • August 8 • 7–10 PM
Friday • September 12 • 7–10 PM
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
Dewey O. Boster Park 1200 Saxon Blvd., Deltona Volusia County Hispanic Association Presents…
Get ready for school with free haircuts and school supplies/backpack giveaways, all while having an end-of-summer blast! Enjoy bounce houses (wet & dry), touch-a-vehicle, music, food trucks, and much more.
Saturday • August 2 • 9 AM–1 PM
HISPANIC
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA 2025 ANNUAL INSTALLATION
The Center At Deltona • 1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd., Deltona
Celebrating 15 Years of Leadership & Community
Tuesday • July 29 • 11 AM
DELTONA WEDDING EXPO
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd., Deltona
Join Lupica’s Sweet Treats at The Center at Deltona for a fun day of wedding inspiration, top vendors, and sweet ideas to make your big day unforgettable!
Sunday • July 13 • 1–4 PM
LABOR DAY
Celebrate Labor Day, a national holiday dedicated to honoring the contributions and achievements of American workers who help shape and strengthen our nation every day.
Monday
September 1
WIG
OUT FOR CANCER GALA “STAYIN’ ALIVE”
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd, Deltona
Join Wig Out for Cancer Gala: STAYIN’ ALIVE , a disco-themed night of hope, music, and unity as we raise funds for underserved cancer patients and local cancer centers in our community.
Friday • September 19 • 6 PM
MOVIE IN THE PARK
Dewey O. Boster Park
1200 Saxon Blvd., Deltona
Grab your blankets and chairs and enjoy a FREE night under the stars with FREE popcorn and lemonade while supplies last!
Friday • August 15 • 8:30 PM
EGCW CYBER SLAM
The Center At Deltona
1640 Dr. M.L.K. Blvd., Deltona
Part of the EGCW Wrestling Live 2025–2026 Dates Collection
For the first time ever... YOU, the fans, are in control!!! ALL AGES are welcome!
Sunday • August 17 3–6 PM
LATIN FESTIVAL 2025
Dewey O. Boster Park 1200 Saxon Blvd., Deltona Volusia County Hispanic Association Presents: A Celebration of Latin Culture!
Get ready for a day full of music, culture, food, and fun as we come together to celebrate the spirit of our Latin community!
Saturday • September 20 • 11 AM–7 PM
4 th OF JULY CELEBRATION
Dewey O. Boster Park
1200 Saxon Blvd., Deltona
Bring the whole family and celebrate Independence Day with your city!
Friday • July 4 • 5–9 PM Fireworks at 9 PM
Celebrating 5 Years of Care in West Volusia
BY JENNIFER LUCE
On Saturday, April 26, Halifax Health | UF Health Medical Center of Deltona joyfully marked its fifth anniversary of service to the West Volusia community with the Sunshine and Sprouts event. Held on the hospital grounds, the celebration offered fun for the whole family, face painting, bounce houses, a live helicopter landing, mechanical rides, live entertainment, craft and plant tables, and a special photo booth in partnership with My Deltona Magazine
From the CEO and Vice President/Administrator to the dedicated hospital staff, everyone was on hand to warmly welcome attendees and proudly share in this significant institutional achievement. City and county officials also joined the festivities to recognize the hospital’s valuable contributions to local health and wellness. It was a day filled with joy, connection, and gratitude shared by the healthcare institution with its community.
Celebrando 5 Años de Atención y Servicio en West Volusia
El sábado 26 de abril, Halifax Health | UF Health Medical Center of Deltona celebró con alegría su quinto aniversario de servicio a la comunidad de West Volusia con el evento Sunshine and Sprouts. Realizada en las instalaciones del hospital, la celebración ofreció diversión para toda la familia, incluyendo caritas pintadas, casas inflables, el aterrizaje en vivo de un helicóptero, juegos mecánicos, entretenimiento en vivo, mesas de manualidades y plantas, y un foto booth especial en colaboración con My Deltona Magazine
Desde el CEO y el vicepresidente/administrador hasta el dedicado personal del hospital, todos estuvieron presentes para dar una cálida bienvenida a los asistentes y compartir con orgullo este importante logro institucional. Autoridades de la ciudad y el condado también se unieron a las festividades para reconocer las valiosas contribuciones del hospital a la salud y bienestar de la comunidad.
Ben Eby, Vice President and Administrator for Deltona and Port Orange
Deltona City Commissioner reads a proclamation honoring Halifax Health | UF Health Medical Center of Deltona on the occasion of their 5th anniversary
Jeff Feasel, President and CEO of Halifax Health
Mayor of Deltona, Santiago Avila, Jr.
My Deltona Magazine and the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce Seal a
StrategicAlliance
BY JENNIFER LUCE
On June 10, 2025, a significant alliance was formalized between My Deltona Magazine and the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce. The agreement was signed by Janet Knauff, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, and Perla Bello-Crosby, Founder, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of My Deltona Magazine, during a special meeting held at the Chamber’s headquarters in DeLand.
This strategic alliance represents an important step toward strengthening regional collaboration, promoting economic development, and uniting communities across West Volusia. Through this partnership, both entities aim to amplify the voices of local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, while increasing the visibility of the region’s unique assets and opportunities.
“This agreement,” said Perla Bello-Crosby, “is a commitment to building bridges between neighboring communities, sharing resources, and supporting our small businesses and local entrepreneurs, who will be the primary beneficiaries.
It’s also a show of support for our DeLand readers, both in the digital and print versions of the magazine. We also seek to celebrate and highlight the achievements of those who make this region grow and succeed.”
Janet Knauff echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the Chamber’s dedication to fostering regional partnerships that drive sustainable growth and business success. She noted that this agreement offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen the connection between DeLand and Deltona. “The Chamber proudly serves all of West Volusia County, so partnering with My Deltona Magazine was a natural fit,” said Janet Knauff, CEO of the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce. “Their deep connection to the Deltona community aligns perfectly with our mission to support and unite the region. We are thrilled to welcome them as a Legacy Investor and look forward to the impact we’ll make together.”
As both Deltona and DeLand continue to grow, this alliance stands as a model of how collaboration, communication, and a shared vision can lead to stronger, more resilient communities. n
GS KATZ
My Deltona Magazine Publisher, Perla Bello-Crosby (left), and Chamber CEO Janet Knauff sign a partnership agreement with Legacy Investor Alliance.
MEETING
OUR NEIGHBORS
Hello DeLand!
Step Back in Time This Summer :
Visit the DeLand House Museum
BY JENNIFER LUCE
Looking for a memorable summer escape without traveling far? Just a short drive from Deltona, history comes to life at the beautifully restored DeLand House Museum, located in the heart of DeLand’s Northwest National Historic District. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of timeless architecture, or simply searching for a unique weekend adventure, the DeLand House offers an enriching journey into our region’s rich past.
Built in 1886, this charming home is one of the oldest in DeLand. Originally a modest two-bedroom farmhouse, the house has undergone fascinating transformations over the years. It once belonged to Dr. Charles Farriss, a Stetson University professor, and his wife Alma, who taught piano and domestic science. Together, the Farrisses reimagined their home in grand Neo-Classical style, adding elegant columns, ornate fireplaces, stained
glass, and even indoor plumbing (a big deal back then)!
The home later served as a boarding house for Stetson students before being lovingly preserved by history lovers Hawtense and Robert Conrad, who donated it to the City of DeLand in 1988. Thanks to their generosity and the passionate efforts of local volunteers like Bill Dreggors, the home was transformed into the DeLand House Museum, opening its doors to the public in 1990.
After a temporary closure during the pandemic, the museum has just completed a major renovation in June 2024, and it’s more inviting than ever! The updated exhibits now showcase life in DeLand during the Progressive Era, an exciting post-WWI period of rapid growth and change. Visitors will find authentic artifacts, vintage photographs, and engaging stories that trace DeLand’s journey from humble
beginnings to a thriving, culturally rich city.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack a lunch, grab your loved ones, and take a short summer road trip back in time. You’ll walk away not only with beautiful memories, but a deeper appreciation for the roots of our Volusia County community.
Know Before You Go!
Take a docent-led tour of the DeLand House Museum, offered Tuesday–Saturday at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM. Explore historic photo archives and book a walking tour of DeLand’s charming districts. Visit delandhouse.com or find more summer fun at visitwestvolusia.com.
ESCANEAR PARA LEER LA VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL
