Style Magazine

👑 Business Women of Style 2026 – DA Construction At DA Construction, every project is powered by a team that builds together — and that collaboration shows from the first plans to the final details. The full-service general contractor handles residential and commercial work, including new construction, renovations and additions, with a focus on keeping each phase organized and efficient. Laiany Munoz, Delena Witt and Stephanie Richardson each play a key role in delivering a smooth experience for clients from start to finish. With more than 25 years in the construction industry, Laiany—often referred to as “the backbone of the company” by her colleagues—brings extensive experience across a wide range of projects, from shopping centers and office buildings to hospitals and residential developments. She helps keep operations on track, relying on strong organization, multitasking and attention to detail. Delena manages the financial side, tracking costs and overseeing billings to help projects stay on schedule and within budget. Stephanie leads marketing, promoting projects, managing outreach and building relationships that continue to grow the company’s presence. Together, their work keeps projects moving forward with consistency and care. “It’s pretty satisfying to help with projects and make sure they run smoothly,” Laiany says. ➡️ vist.ly/54cmd

Congratulations to Former Eustis High softball coach Brittany Beall who helped lead Florida A&M Rattlers to their first-ever SWAC Tournament Championship with a thrilling 8-7 victory over Jackson State! After 16 standout seasons at Eustis (257-77 record), where she won multiple state titles and sent over 75 athletes to college, Coach Beall is bringing that championship culture to FAMU. Her commitment to excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in life continues to pay off! We also want to send a huge congratulations to the local standouts who helped make this moment possible: • Ciara Maple (Eustis High) • Nathalie Williams (South Sumter) • Delacia DeLeslin (East Ridge High) • Sariah Espada (Clermont) • Avery Ashford (Apopka) We are incredibly proud of you all! FAMU is currently playing Florida in the NCAA Tournament which you can watch on ESPN. 🐍🏆

Wildwood College Athletes Organizing Neighborhood Cleanup and Youth Event 🏈❤️ A group of college football players with ties to Wildwood are coming together this weekend to give back to the community they still call home. On Saturday, May 16, Ja’Kyrian Turner, Zechariah Poyser, Terrell Poyser, Eian Finkley and Jawarren Corbin will host the first annual Neighborhood Clean Up at MLK Park in Wildwood. The event, organized in remembrance of “Shug,” will combine community cleanup efforts with youth activities focused on mentorship, teamwork and giving back. Organizers say the goal is not only to help clean up neighborhoods, but also to involve local youth and encourage pride in the community. “These athletes love their community and are proud to be representing Wildwood as far as Pittsburgh, Miami, Missouri State, Delaware and Western Carolina,” organizers shared in a statement. The day will begin with breakfast for participating children from 8-9am at the pavilion at MLK Park, located at 600 Walker Rd. At 9am, children will be divided into groups and escorted through nearby neighborhoods alongside the athletes to help collect trash and clean local streets. Beginning at 1pm, children will be able to enjoy the splash pad, water slide and additional games before wrapping up the afternoon with flag football and two-hand touch games alongside the college athletes at 2pm. Full story here: vist.ly/54b4j

🔥 The East Ridge Knights softball team makes SCHOOL HISTORY!! Congratulates to the East Ridge High School Lady Knights of Clermont who are the FHSAA Class 7A Regional Champions for the first time in the program's history! 🏆💪👏 The Knights have now punched their ticket to the FHSAA State Semifinals!! Behind another dominant performance from junior ace Simmone Hymiller, the Knights built an early lead and never looked back. Hymiller threw a complete game, allowing just six hits while keeping Sarasota off balance all night long. East Ridge wasted no time getting on the board, scoring two runs in the first inning to seize momentum. Veronica Peterson crossed the plate in the opening frame as the Knights jumped ahead early. The Knights added another run in the second inning when Leila Bolden continued her huge night at the plate. Bolden, who finished a perfect 3-for-3, ripped a single down the left field line to extend the East Ridge lead to 3-0. That was all the support Hymiller would need. Even as Sarasota battled back with two late runs, the junior stayed composed in the circle and closed out the historic victory. Bailey Page also had a strong offensive performance for the Knights, going 2-for-3 at the plate. With the win, East Ridge advances to the state semifinals for the first time in school history and will now head to Longwood with a chance to compete for a state championship. 📸Kristin O’Hara

They did it AGAIN! 🔥 EUSTIS HIGH SOFTBALL IS GOING TO THE FHSAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!! Congratulations to the Eustis High Lady Panthers who punched their ticket with a strong 4-1 victory over Santa Fe! 👏💪 It was a huge night for Andi Perdicaris, who delivered 2 hits and 3 RBIs. Brooklyn Powhida, Dalilah Taylor, Emmy Luke, and Jordyn Kelly all crossed the plate, with Ella Fleming adding an RBI as Eustis exploded for all 4 runs in the first inning. In the circle, Carson Roden was outstanding, going 7 innings with 6 strikeouts, 5 hits allowed, and just 1 earned run. After her no-hitter in 10 innings the night before to set Eustis up for this evenings showdown. Carson once again proved why she’s one of the best in Central Florida! This marks the third straight year Eustis is advancing to the State Semifinals and the second under head coach Tyra Bowers. Let’s go Lady Panthers! 👏🥎 Video by Principal Tracy Clark

Rookie Teacher of the Year Trevor Misegades Turns Trade Skills Into Student Success 🏆 Advanced Manufacturing | Lake Technical College At Lake Technical College, Trevor Misegades is helping students build more than skills. He’s helping them build a future. Trevor, an advanced manufacturing instructor, didn’t originally plan to become a teacher. With a background in manufacturing and machining, his path into the classroom came naturally through mentoring others in the trade. “Over time, that passion for sharing knowledge and developing new talent led me toward teaching,” Trevor says. Now in his second year of teaching, Trevor works with postsecondary students who have made the decision to pursue a skilled trade and are focused on building a career. “I chose to teach at the postsecondary level because it allows me to work with students who are ready to focus on building a career,” he says. Inside his classroom, Trevor emphasizes hands-on learning in a setting that mirrors a real manufacturing environment. Students are encouraged to problem-solve, learn from mistakes and develop the kind of work ethic expected in the workforce. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/549bc

Mount Dora Artist is Growing a Community-Driven Studio with Dreams of Expanding 🎨 When PJ Svejda moved to Mount Dora in 2020, the day they closed the banks for the pandemic, she was ready to rebuild her life. With a young son at home and the world shutting down, PJ had to get real creative with how to make a living. An artist by trade with a master’s degree in painting and a bachelor’s in illustration, she had weathered tough seasons before, graduating in 2009 during the recession. “There were no jobs at all,” she says. She supported herself through birthday parties and freelance work before eventually settling in Mount Dora. An impulsive decision to rent one of the empty storefronts downtown has grown into a shared studio, gallery and community hub. Studio Art Farm, titled for her ultimate goal to expand into a farm, evolved into a collective where artists share studio space, gallery walls and creative energy. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/548w2

Culinary Arts Teacher Turned a Second Chance into a Lifelong Calling 👨‍🍳 Culinary Arts | Leesburg High School John Bell never set out to become a teacher. In fact, he’ll tell you he probably shouldn’t have made it this far at all. As a teenager, he was in and out of fights and trouble. After moving to Ocala in 1980 for a fresh start, things quickly unraveled when he fought a teacher and was expelled. That moment could have ended everything. Instead, it became a turning point. Two educators, including his culinary teacher Pam Snider, stepped in with a second chance. They agreed not to press charges if he repeated his senior year and committed to turning things around. He took the deal. “They changed my life,” he says, pointing especially to Pam, who refused to give up on him. Years later, John was running a five-star restaurant in Ocala when a former mentor walked in with news he wasn’t ready for. Pam had died after a battle with cancer. He handed John a box she had kept, filled with letters, articles and one note that stopped him cold. It was a letter John had written years earlier, thanking her after earning his certification as a working chef and landing a job in Aspen. In it, he promised he would one day give others the same chance she gave him. “She reminded me it was time to give back,” he says. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/548ey

Honor Student Javier Melo Valdez Becomes First in Family to Attend College Eustis High School senior Javier Melo Valdez is leaving a lasting mark on campus as a 4.0 honor student recognized among his peers as part of the school’s “Deserving Dozen” for his achievements, leadership and contributions to the school community. As the son of immigrant parents, Javier set a number of goals for himself before graduating high school. The most important was becoming the first person in his family to attend college — a goal that fueled his dedication both inside and outside the classroom. He accomplished it while taking honors classes throughout all four years of high school. “He’s a really good brother who always spends time with his 12-year-old brother who is on the spectrum,” Javier’s mother says. Javier serves as executive vice president of Student Government, where he helps represent and support the student body. He is also the officer in charge of Kitty Hawk, a program within JROTC focused on tutoring and academic support. “I’ve been interested in politics since sixth grade,” Javier says. “I wanted to learn how countries handle their government and economy. With the support from family, I’m excited to pursue my dream job.” Read his full story here: vist.ly/547f6

Lake & Sumter Counties, we need your recommendations. 🏆 Who’s the local business you rave about to everyone? 🍔 Best burger 🛍️ Best boutique 🍺 Best happy hour spot 🔧 Most trusted plumber …and everything in between. Style Magazine’s Best of the Best 2026 nominations are now live, and we’re counting on YOU to help recognize the businesses that make this community shine. It only takes a few minutes ➡️ vist.ly/425qt Nominations close May 25 - then it's time to vote for your favorites! Drop your favorite local business in the comments! 👇

🔥 WALK-OFF HEROICS Eustis High Wins FHSAA Regional Semifinal In A 10-INNING THRILLER! 🚨 Carson Roden was UNTOUCHABLE last night, throwing a complete-game NO-HITTER with 13 strikeouts to keep the Panthers alive! Then, in the bottom of the 10th, Skyler Scott delivered the biggest hit of the season: a walk-off single that scored Boston College commit Emmy Luke, giving Eustis a 1-0 victory over Crystal River in the FHSAA Regional Semifinal! The Lady Panthers improve to 20-6 and advance to the Regional Final tonight against Santa Fe. This marks the second straight year with 20+ wins under head coach Tyra Bowers in just her second season as head coach. Eustis is now one win away from returning to the State Semifinals for the third year in a row! Way to go Lady Panthers! 🐾🔥

Disney Surprises Lake County School during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Kickoff Walt Disney World is bringing a little Disney magic to Lake County classrooms while investing in local education programs across the region. As part of a $1.3 million investment supporting education initiatives throughout Central Florida, Disney recently visited Eustis Heights Elementary School to celebrate students and educators with a preview of the company’s upcoming Cool KIDS’ SUMMER campaign. The funding will support public school districts in Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole counties, along with nonprofit and arts education programs serving students across the region. During the visit to Eustis Heights Elementary, kindergarten and pre-kindergarten students participated in activities inspired by Disney’s summer experiences coming to EPCOT, while Goofy and members of the Goof Troop made surprise appearances for students and staff. After the school day ended, teachers, administrators and staff were recognized for their work in the classroom and received complimentary Walt Disney World theme park tickets to enjoy with their families. “Schools are where the very first sparks of imagination are lit,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, director of external affairs at Walt Disney World, says in a release. “They’re where young storytellers, dreamers and creators begin to see what’s possible.” full story: vist.ly/546r3

💔 Sadly, the South Sumter High School Baseball season has come to an end after a hard-fought loss in the FHSAA State Semifinals against North Broward Prep. Final score was 4-0. What an incredible ride it’s been! The Raiders fought their way back to the State Semifinals for the first time since 2015, defying expectations all season long. We couldn’t be more proud of every athlete, coach, and community member who poured their heart into this program. Your dedication and support made this special season possible. While some will return next year, tonight many Raiders played their final game in the Black & Gold. As their high school chapter closes, a bright new journey is just beginning. But this is South Sumter High after all, and as the saying goes… “Tradition Never Graduates”. 💪❤️🖤 Congratulations on an amazing season, Raiders! Thank you for the memories.

Community Grieves Loss of Tavares Soldier Mariyah Collington After Tragedy Overseas Tavares native Army Spc. Mariyah Symone Collington, 19, has been identified as one of two U.S. soldiers who died during a military exercise in Morocco after the pair went missing earlier this month. According to military officials, Mariyah and 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. were reported missing May 2 after falling from a cliff during a hike while participating in African Lion, a multinational military training exercise held in Morocco. On Wednesday, U.S. Africa Command confirmed Mariyah’s remains had been recovered following an extensive search effort involving U.S. forces and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. Mariyah served as an air missile defense crewmember assigned to Charlie Battery, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command. Her awards and decorations included the Army Service Ribbon. The annual African Lion exercise launched in April across Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana and Senegal and involved more than 7,000 military personnel from over 30 nations. As news spread throughout Lake County, friends and family members shared tributes remembering Mariyah’s life, service and impact on those around her. Full story here: vist.ly/5459f

Vito Mazzini Brings Real-World Science to Students After 43 Years in Education 🧪 Biology and AP Environmental Science | Mount Dora High School After 43 years in education, Mount Dora High School teacher Vito Mazzini continues to find new ways to make science relevant for his students. Vito teaches honors biology, AP environmental science and biology, working primarily with 10th through 12th grade students. His approach centers on connecting lessons to the real world, helping students understand how science impacts their everyday lives. “I love science because it’s happening now, it’s just not words in a book,” Vito says. In his AP environmental science classes, students explore topics like economics, environmental issues and how current events tie into what they are learning. In biology, lessons on ecology and environmental change are connected to real-world examples, including recent weather events and how they affect plants and animals. Vito says one of his biggest goals is to make the classroom a place students enjoy. “I want them to come to my class and enjoy,” he says. That mindset has helped shape not only his students, but those around him as well. One colleague, who worked next door to Vito, credits him with helping guide his career. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/544yx

👑 Business Women of Style 2026 – Cindi Mainer As executive director of the Warner Family Sports Foundation, Cindi Mainer understands the power of showing up. She has spent years creating opportunities for young athletes to grow not just in sport, but in life. A former collegiate volleyball player, Cindi believes success isn’t just about talent. It requires mentorship, structure and access to the right resources. That belief continues to shape her work today, as she focuses on expanding opportunities for youth and strengthening connections within the community. Through the Warner Family Sports Foundation, she works to remove barriers for young athletes across Central Florida. The nonprofit provides scholarships, registration assistance and travel support, ensuring more kids have access to sports, mentorship and positive role models. Her approach is rooted in the belief that athletics can play a key role in overall health and wellness, helping young people build confidence, discipline and lifelong habits that extend beyond the field or court. Cindi brings more than 35 years of nonprofit experience to the role. She has worked with the American Cancer Society, the Arthritis Foundation (both out of St. Louis, MO), Family Resources in Pinellas County and, most recently, the Humane Society of Sumter County. Serving nonprofits has been a consistent thread throughout her career and remains a central part of her mission. ➡️ vist.ly/544jq

Chef Stefanie Hibbert Transforms Familiar Foods into Vibrant Creations 🍲 Stefanie Hibbert had already considered several different futures by the time she discovered cooking. She attended a medical magnet high school, studied at multiple colleges and earned an associate’s degree in education, first using it in corporate training and tutoring math. She worked in sales across Florida and spent time teaching career readiness to graduating students in health and human services. A culinary career was nowhere on her radar. Then life shifted. During a leave of absence in 2018, Stefanie went to help at a small sandwich shop her father had quietly opened in Leesburg. One day, he showed her how to caramelize onions. It may have seemed like a small moment, but it changed everything for her. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/5445u

Lake Minneola Junior Camila Antonsanti-Soto Commits to Arkansas State Volleyball Lake Minneola High School junior volleyball standout Camila Antonsanti-Soto announced her commitment to Arkansas State University. Her commitment comes as no surprise as Camila is one of Central Florida’s top rising high school volleyball players. She began playing the sport at age 8 in Puerto Rico. Her talent became evident early, helping her Puerto Rican 10U team win an AAU National Championship in 2019. Recognizing the opportunities available in the United States, her parents, who are both former professional basketball players in Puerto Rico, Eric Antonsanti and Soelimir Soto, relocated the family to Clermont in 2021. “My parents saw the potential in me and my brother Fabian early on,” Camila says. “They knew if we were going to chase our dreams, we needed to be where the opportunities were.” The transition quickly paid dividends. After arriving in Florida, Camila helped East Ridge Middle School capture back-to-back district championships while also competing on the club circuit, where her team qualified for the USAV Girls Junior Nationals 13U Open Division. Her accomplishments also extend beyond the court. At Lake Minneola High School, Camila carries a 4.6 GPA and plans to study architectural engineering in college while continuing her volleyball career at Arkansas State University. full story here: vist.ly/5437b

Will Velez Jr. Brings Life Lessons From the Battlefield to the Classroom 🇺🇸 7th Grade English | The Villages Charter Middle School For Will Velez Jr., the journey to becoming a seventh-grade English teacher at The Villages Charter School was anything but traditional. A former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier who served 14 years and survived serious combat injuries, Velez now uses the lessons he learned through hardship, discipline and perseverance to guide his students. Now in his third year teaching English at the Buffalo Ridge campus, Velez believes education should prepare students for far more than tests or grades. “I tell the kids all the time, just stay learning,” Velez said. “That’s important. I stay learning every day. I read stuff, and kids say, ‘Mr. Velez, how do you know about that?’ Because I read about it. I learn about it.” Velez’s path to the classroom began long before he ever stepped into it as a teacher. Growing up in the Bronx, he said several teachers shaped how he viewed education and personal growth. One history teacher dressed in historical costumes to bring lessons to life, while another introduced him to psychology and the power of the mind. A gym teacher, he recalled, instilled a sense of responsibility and perseverance. “All these teachers kind of had an impact on me at such a young age in high school,” Velez said. “It kind of cemented my fact… maybe I’ll come back and be a teacher.” But first came the military. Inspired partly by the comic book hero Captain America and a family tradition of military service, Velez enlisted at 18. He went on to serve 14 years, including time in Special Forces, before suffering serious injuries during combat. ➡️ Read full story here: vist.ly/53ypf

👑 Business Women of Style 2026 – Charlene Jenkins Charlene Jenkins, CEO of Jenkins Wealth & Retirement Solutions, leads by putting God first in everything she does, a foundation that shapes how she approaches life, her business and the way she serves her clients. At Jenkins Wealth, she has built a practice centered on helping people prepare for the future with confidence, guiding them through retirement planning and long-term financial decisions with care and clarity. That perspective has only deepened over the past year as she balances her role as a financial professional with caring for her mother, an experience that has reinforced just how critical it is to prepare for the unexpected, especially long term care. Also, with granddaughter Kyla Massey joining the business, Charlene is focused on reaching a younger generation. She strongly believes that people in ther 20s and 30s should start saving for retirement now, setting themselves up for stability and financial freedom later in life. Charlene is especially passionate about fixed index annuities with an income rider and believes the lifetime income benefit riders will be the future retirement vehicle for guaranteed income. She always states: “I love annuities and so should you.” For her, it’s not just about planning for retirement. It’s about helping people build a secure future in the country she deeply loves. “I am proud to be an American and honored to be able to help people plan for their futures,” Charlene says. 🇺🇸 ➡️ vist.ly/53ybf