Style Magazine, October 2015 by Akers Media Group

October

2015

CITY G U I DE DINE DRINK SHOP PLAY HIKE FISH GOLF RIDE FLY SWIM LIVE LEARN LOVE

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CITY G U I DE DINE DRINK SHOP PLAY HIKE FISH GOLF RIDE FLY SWIM LIVE LEARN LOVE

18 CITY GUIDE: A LOOK AT THE CITIES THAT ENCOMPASS LAKE AND SUMTER

Life in Lake and Sumter Counties offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy the care-free, outdoors lifestyle offered by our numerous lakes, springs and rural areas ideal for horseback riding or geocaching; or something a bit more urban, like the arts, shopping, and fine dining. You can find it here, as the Lake County motto states – “Real Florida, real close.”

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October 20 15

ents Departments 17 FROM THE PUBLISHER

89 VENUES

144 FINAL THOUGHT

57 DINING

45 SHOPPING

12 3

1 01

ATTRACTIONS

ACTIVITIES

CORRECTION In our September issue of Lake & Sumter Style, the CEO of Orlando Health, John Hillenmeyer, was incorrectly listed as John Kellermeier in our feature story, “Medicom.” Also, South Lake Hospital was incorrectly called South Florida Hospital twice. We offer our apologies for the errors.

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From the publisher

Kendra Akers

WELCOME TO YOUR HOME.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF kendra@akersmediagroup.com

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LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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AMERICAN ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION

As you may know, Akers Media recently published its second annual Welcome to Lake County visitor/newcomers guide. The magazine is distributed in places such as Chambers of Commerce, county welcome centers, hotels, and city offices. The mission of the magazine is to inform visitors and prospective new residents what is available to them here in Lake County. We highlight things such as activities, festivals, shopping, dining, sports, arts, health care, homes, and much more. After reviewing our finished product this past March, I thought, this is great information. It shouldn’t be reserved just for visitors and newcomers; this is information that even our long-term residents would like to know. After all, new things become available in this community, and our residents may not even be aware of them. Therefore, the Welcome to Lake County magazine is where we got our inspiration to create Lake and Sumter County’s first City Guide. In this month’s issue, we share an overview of things Lake and Sumter counties for our residents. For me, I have lived in Lake County since 1987, I am in the media industry, I serve on several civic boards, and I feel I am fairly connected. However, there are still things that even I don’t know about this community. When compiling this City Guide, we talked with those who could enlighten us about what is happening, what is new, and where our community is heading economically. Believe it or not, things aren’t just good, they are great. In fact, Lake County has a new division, led by Robert Chandler, called Economic Growth. Chandler shared the idea that economic development isn’t simply bringing new businesses into the area it is also improving the quality of life within a community. That makes it more appealing for prospective businesses to move here and bring their families. And I say, with Robert leading that mission, certainly great changes are on the horizon. I am excited about this issue because itt highlights all of the amazing benefits that already exist here in n Lake and Sumter. I love this area, and I will always take advantage vantage of an opportunity to promote it. For those of you ou who share that sentiment and want to get re-acquainted nted with your home, please allow us to introduce you to o your city. Sit back, enjoy the experience, and let us be your guide. Until next month,

WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style, October 2015. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 Fifth Street, Leesburg, Florida 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2015 by Akers Media. All rights reserved. Lake & Sumter Style is a registered trademark of Akers Media. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or billing information, call 352.787.4112. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Paid Promotional Feature” and “Special Promotional Feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. The ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of Akers Media.

Kendra Akers

NAVIGATING

THE BEAUTY AND HISTORY OF LAKE AND SUMTER COUNTIES IS NOT LOST ON THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE HERE. MANY OF THEM ARE LIFELONG RESIDENTS WHO HAVE NO THOUGHT OF LIVING ANYWHERE ELSE. OTHERS HAVE FOUND IT’S THE TRANQUIL LAKES, SLOWER PACE OF SMALLER TOWNS, AND WARMTH OF THE COMMUNITY THAT BROUGHT THEM HERE. THESE TWO COUNTIES SIT SIDE BY SIDE ON A MAP, BUT THEIR CLOSENESS IS MEASURED MORE IN THE LOVE OF THE PLACE THEY CALL HOME.

LAK E &

SU MTE R

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CITY G U I DE

WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY FOREST GATEWAY GATEWAY TO PEACEFULNESS

You don’t need to escape to a secluded, faraway island to take a break from modern chaos. The northeast tip of Lake County is known for quiet, rustic life removed from the mainstream—a destination where canoeing/kayaking, hiking, biking, four-wheeling, and horseback riding are top priority for the day or for a lifetime. Flanked by the dense and buffering Ocala National Forest to the north, towns like Umatilla, Astor, and Altoona offer a slower pace in a quiet setting. Each community is known for unrushed, carefree activities and dining, outdoor living, and nature walks. In addition, the towns are close together, so you can swim in crystal-clear water, enjoy a chili cook-off, and take in a horseback ride, all in a day. 40

Lake George State Forest

Arlington River

ASTOR Alexander Springs Wilderness

Lake Woodruff

445

42 ALTOONA

Lake Dorr

Lake Tracy

19 439

UMATILLA

Lake Norris

Lake Norris Conservation Area

44A 44A

Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park Seminole State Forest

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ALTOONA

and seminars, the ranch provides cable TV and Internet Wi-Fi, plus kitchens and dining rooms, decks, and grills.

Population: 88 Size: 0.5 square miles Altoona may be a small town, but it has a big heart, as evidenced by attractions dedicated to a war veteran and a horse. McTureous Homestead and Museum and McTureous Memorial Park on State Road 19 honor the memory of Altoona’s only native World War II Medal of Honor recipient: Private Robert M. McTureous. He was the son of Robert M. McTureous, Sr., Altoona’s one-time postmaster and justice of the peace, and his wife, known to the community as “Aunt Bessie.” Fiddlers Green Ranch offers full-service vacation villas for horse and nature-lovers in a cozy setting overlooking ranch grounds. Fiddler’s famed 100-mile equestrian trail in the Ocala National Forest is popular with endurance and competitive trail-riders, local riding groups and individuals. Great for family reunions, company retreats, club outings

ASTOR Population: 1,487 Size: 2.5 square miles

The tiny town of Astor, located near Umatilla in an area once inhabited by ancient Native American and Spanish civilizations, once had a promising future as the dream of William Backhouse Astor Jr., of New York. He purchased 12,000 acres

of land in 1874 to establish a town he called Manhattan. Accessible by steamboat, new arrivals settled the land owned by one of the nation’s wealthiest men. Astor built a church, schoolhouse, botanical garden, free cemetery, hotel, sawmill and even a railroad, which connected the settlers to Eustis and Leesburg. The town grew, but the name never caught on. After his death, the town was renamed Astor in his honor. His son, John Jacob Astor IV inherited the estate and continued his father’s legacy, town and business interests in Florida. He died on board the Titanic when it sank in 1912. His son, Vincent, did not have the same interest in Florida as his father and grandfather, and sold off all area assets. That, combined with a significant drop in steamboat travel, ended the town’s prosperity, prominence and promise. Today, Astor holds many “well-kept secrets.” With numerous eclectic places to stay, eat, and sightsee along the river. The area is devoted to tourism. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride through the many tributaries along the St. John’s River aboard the St John’s River Tour. You’ll observe native plant and wildlife, such as alligators, bald eagles, manatees, ferns and large cypress trees. Tours depart from the Blackwater Inn, a picturesque mainstay along the byway. Blackwater Inn provides a mouthwatering menu. Williams Landing, located upstairs, offers an informal lunch and dinner with full bar. Try the house special – a smoked fish dip appetizer made from yellow tuna. Castaways on the River on State Road 40 is a great place to relax, have a drink, watch the boats and eat a meal. The owners also have a modest motel and boat rentals. Sparky’s Place, also on State Road 40, is another local favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Swamp Shack, previously O’Brien’s, is the newest eatery on the byway. They also are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. One of the best kept secrets in Lake County is the Pioneer Settlement for

the Creative Arts, a recreated settlement of authentic pioneer-era buildings that were disassembled, moved, reassembled and restored to create a village-type feel beneath great canopies of moss-draped oak trees. The settlement is dedicated to preserving the architecture and traditions of Central Florida’s bygone times. Established in 1976, the settlement complex is located five miles from Astor on U.S. 17. It contains a complete railroad depot thought to have been built around 1885, and a bridge-keeper’s house from approximately 1926. Creative arts produced in the region and Native American crafts are sold. Guided tours of the facility are offered. According to Debi Dyer, tourism program supervisor of the Economic Development & Tourism Dept., no tour of the area’s natural wonders is complete without a visit to the Lake County Blueways project and the St. Francis/Dead River Run. A blueway is similar to a hiking trail, only physical and geo-positioned markers are used to guide trail users through the waterways. The St. Francis/Dead River Run traverses the river of the same name. The trail passes the ghost town of St. Francis, formerly known as “Old Town,” located 20 miles south of Astor. Paddlers can observe where the town was built from pilings in the water that indicate where a grand motel stood on the shore. Even the most knowledgeable Floridians would be surprised to know that St. Francis is one of Lake County’s 30-plus ghost towns. It quite possibly was the most prolific during its heyday. Once a thriving port on the St. Johns River, St. Francis had its own newspaper, post office, general store, warehouse, wharves and hundreds of citrus acres. The town was abandoned after the devastating Big Freeze of 1894-95 destroyed the local citrus industry.

UMATILLA Population: 2,214 Size: 3 square miles

Umatilla feels a bit like Mayberry, the fictional small town on the Andy Griffith Show, except it is prettier. Fittingly, the City of Umatilla recently adopted the new slogan, “Nature’s Hometown.” The Umatilla Chamber of Commerce, however, maintains its long-standing motto, “Gateway to the Ocala National Forest.” Both are appropriate. Enjoying the great outdoors is important here. That’s obvious when you visit North Lake Community Park, which opened in 2009. The primary purpose of the park is to offer recreational sports fields for league play and general use – two baseball fields, two softball fields, two soccer fields, and three multi-use fields. Other amenities include an expansive playground, four picnic pavilions, two restroom facilities, two basketball courts, six tennis courts, four sand volleyball courts, concession stands, a 1.4-mile perimeter trail loop and a .75-mile nature trail. Several citrus trees remain from when the site was an orange grove. The downtown Umatilla historic district has a collection of late 19th century Victorian and old Florida-style homes, many recently restored. There also has been an increase in unique shopping experiences at Umatilla Antique Market,which include SerendipiDee home decor and gift shop, retail shop, an old-fashioned ice cream

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CITY G U I DE parlor and other businesses. There are several popular restaurants, including Umatilla Inn & Restaurant, the Mason Jar, Old Crow Barbecue, and Greg’s Haystax. Downtown Umatilla comes alive with “Evening on the Avenue,” a quarterly event featuring live entertainment, street vendors and specialty activities. Locals also are fond of the annual chili cook-off. And more events are being planned. “We are seeking events on a quarterly basis in downtown now that our community is becoming more walkable,” said Executive Director of the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce Susan Martin. Scott Blankenship is Umatilla’s new city manager. For information on the industries that thrived in early Umatilla – like citrus and beekeeping – visit the Historical Society and School House Museum on Crowell Avenue. The School House Museum was built in the mid-1940s, then repurposed as a museum 10 years ago. Martin calls it Umatilla’s “well-kept secret.” It is open by appointment. For tours, call Martin at the Chamber of Commerce. The outskirts of Umatilla is the premier location to observe the Florida black bear in their natural habitat. The Florida Black Bear and Wildlife Conservation Festival, in its 16th year, is a fun and educational event that increases awareness and promotes safety. It also is the most unique wildlife centered festival in the Southeast. The focus is on education: how to coexist and preserve the ecosystem that is so important for the livelihood of local business, while educating people on bears’ migration habits, so as to best preserve wildlife habitats. “With bears being in the news more and more these days, it is important that we continue to have a strong educational message about coexisting safely,” said Martin. “We are starting to see more wildlife travel from the southern part of our state, the area known as the Florida Wildlife Corridor.” The festival promotes awareness of how to best preserve their habitat – the Wildlife Corridor – to allow natural migration

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that does not deviate into human populations. For starters, proper disposal of organic waste and livestock maintenance so as to not attract hungry bears and other predatory wildlife. There’s plenty to see and do in Umatilla, but the city also is a stepping stone to paradise. Umatilla borders nearby Alexander Springs, and provides access to the southern end of the Florida National Scenic Trail: an unpaved trail 60 miles long. Both attract eco-tourists from all over the country for their ideal swimming, fishing, camping and hiking. “The first leg of the Florida Trail is just outside of Umatilla on CR 42, on the way to Paisley,” said Martin. Another popular choice for nature lovers, Silver Glen Springs, is easily accessible by car (via State Road 40), plane (Umatil-

la Airport) or boat (St. John’s River from Astor). Outdoor enthusiasts travel by any means necessary for camping, hiking, and swimming in one of the most beautiful springs in the state. Boats are prohibited, which makes Silver Glen Springs popular with swimmers, snorkelers and manatees that visit in the winter for a warm refuge from the cool waters of the St John’s River. The landscape is predominantly upland forests of oak, cedar and pine perfect for photography, birding and ecology studies. Take the Spring Boils Trail to Jody’s Spring, named after the spring described by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ American Literature classic, “The Yearling.” For gorgeous views of Lake George, choose the alternate Lake George Trail, which passes through the uplands to the cypress shoreline.

NORTHWEST LAKE ALIVE WITH OPTIONS Rich with history and full of lakes and parks, which are ideal for outdoor activities, community-oriented Northwest Lake County has many options for visitors and residents to explore and enjoy their surroundings by sea, land and air. Where else can you water ski in the morning, enjoy a music or arts festival in the afternoon and end the day with a sunset dinner at a popular lakefront restaurant? Or take the family on a kayak trip from the river of a landmark park to one of the lakes the county is famous for, enjoy a vintage train ride from one scenic small town to another, and end the day taking in views of a beautiful waterfront while the kids splash around in a whimsical splash park? Northwest Lake County is ideal for a family day, date night, or retreat. The main cities and towns are so close together, you can visit two or more communities in a day.

EL CAMINO REAL

LADY LAKE

466 KE

ROLLING ACRES RD

Lake Miona

MORSE BLVD

472 301

BUENA VISTA BLVD

466

FRUITLAND PARK

LAKE ELLA RD

466A

Dead River

Lake Deaton Lake Okahumpka A RID O FL

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468 LEWIS RD

THOMAS AVE

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LEESBURG Lake Harris

FRUITLAND PARK Population: 4,251 Size: 3.7 square miles Fruitland Park is a typically quiet place to enjoy life’s simpler treasures, like “Nawlins Style French Toast” and 50-cent coffee at Fruitland Park Café or homemade corned beef hash and fruitfilled muffins at Rae Rae’s. The secluded charm of Fruitland Park’s neighborhoods, lakes and parks are neatly tucked away from busy Highway 441 by massive oak trees. The soft, gentle nature of the town presents a natural inclination for hospitality, thus Fruitland Park is known as “The Friendly City.” Leesburg’s neighbor to the north draws visitors and new residents with old-fashioned rustic charm and natural appeal. The community is known for history, outdoor life and its own take on performing arts and attractions – rodeos and racing. The tranquility of nature flourishes at Lake Griffin State Park, just off Highway 441. With 40 camp sites (supplied with fresh water and electricity), showers, restrooms and laundry facilities, picnic

area, nature trails, canoe and kayak rentals and boat ramp, the 620-acre state park is a great place to enjoy nature. However, absolutely no swimming is allowed due to the high concentration of alligators. The must see tip: Lake Griffin State Park is home to one of Florida’s largest mammoth oak trees. It is 300-500 years old and the second largest live oak in Florida. The tree sits at the end of the half-mile nature trail, at the southeastern corner of the park. A nearby bench is the ideal spot for quiet reflection. For entertainment, locals love Windy Acres Farms on County Road 466A, which offers rodeo, barrel racing and is home to the Leesburg Saddle Club. A favorite event is the Fruitland Park Founders Day Bulls and Barrels Rodeo in March. More than 100 rodeo contestants, judges, scorekeepers, stock handlers and volunteers are on hand to greet more than 1,000 spectators. According to rodeo organizer and Windy Acres Farms owner, Bill Galbreath, more than 20 riders enter “the most dangerous eight seconds in sports.” Afterward, five of the best barrel-racers with five of the best horses in Florida vie in a winner-take-all quest for a big cash prize. Fruitland Park Day, held in the spring, is a fun-filled family event that kicks off with a parade in the morning, featuring local entertainers and marching bands. The day is filled with live bands, disc jockeys, free train rides, rock climbing, a photo booth, bounce houses, space ball and face painting. There are plenty of fun, family-friendly activities for everyone in Fruitland Park. Adrenaline junkies of every age will love Speedway Park on Micro Racetrack Road. Kids as young as 5 race on the track, and adult carts reach speeds in excess of 60 mph. The park offers both lessons and racing. Open since 1958, the “Original Speedway Park” is Florida’s oldest and premier 1/6-mile dirt go-kart track. Today, the track is recognized as a World Karting Association Master Track. In addition to go-kart racing, Speedway Park hosts: the

Motorcycle Flat Trackers, Southern Dirt Track Association, BikeFest SDTA Motorcycle Event, and BikeFest Camp & Race Weekend. The regular season for carting includes 16 races from January through November. Gardenia Park Recreation Complex, operated by the City of Fruitland Park, offers a popular skateboard park. The complex also features a pool, soccer/football field, handball court, playground, walking trail and sheltered pavilion.

LEESBURG Population: 21,142 Size: 24.5 square miles Leesburg’s combination of calm water, clear blue skies, and picturesque terrain offers an ideal balance between passive serenity and opportunities for energetic activity – a perfect blend of small-town atmosphere and nature. The Lakefront City has numerous community-oriented activities, fabulous shopping, scenic gardens, fascinating history, artful pursuits and lively festivals. Leesburg is a place to repeatedly visit or stay forever. Lined with colorful shops, appetizing restaurants and historic buildings, Leesburg has one of Lake County’s most active downtowns. Locals love the Saturday Morning Market. The one-of-a-kind Food Truck-N-Flick Night hosted by the City of Leesburg is just as popular. Young and old enjoy delicious fare from gourmet food trucks lined up on Main Street and enjoy a blockbuster movie on the outdoor screen in Towne Square.

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CITY G U I DE “Leesburg is real Florida,” says Sandi Moore, executive director of the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce. The city represents what people truly want – a friendly, southern atmosphere where you can feel safe and welcomed. Downtown is known for friendly, quaint places to shop. Victoria’s Antique Warehouse offers everything from vintage to trendy, from American and French antiques, rare heirloom pieces, primitive, and reclaimed treasures to custom, urban/industrial, Shabby Chic, and accessories. Collectibles and country gifts can be found at Morning Glori Antique Mall, among its antiques and primitives. Search for must-have items at Another Look Consignment Boutique or Alada’s China & Gifts. Share stories over a glass of wine and live jazz at Sip Jazz and Wine Bar after picking up oneof-a-kind women’s apparel and jewelry at Doggiebags or the Shoppes on Main. Leesburg also represents what Florida was meant to be: beauty and nature. “I think a ‘must do’ is to get out on the lakes,” said Moore. Canoe, kayak, boat rentals and tours are available to explore the lakes. The inviting, lush greenery of peaceful Venetian Gardens implores visitors to walk through its 64-acre park on the west shore of Lake Harris. For family fun, Venetian Gardens has a public pool with bathhouse. Adventurous types can get their adrenaline surge with water skiing at Ski Beach. Bourlay Historic Nature Park offers nature lovers another alternative. This 88-acre park is the site of the city’s first steamboat landing and first Methodist service. Visit a “shotgun” style Cracker House while bird-watching along Lake Griffin’s lakeside trails. To learn about Leesburg’s rich past, visit the Leesburg Historic Museum and the historic district, which has a number of interesting landmarks. A standout, the Mote-Morris House, was built in 1892 and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. Finally, the Tropic Theater on Main

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station to station sampling craft beers or wines from around the world, plus a variety of food from top restaurants. All for $25 per person. What’s new in downtown? Plenty. Leesburg Main Street’s $3.8 million streetscape is now complete.

LADY LAKE Population: 14,247 Size: 6.7 square miles The Town of Lady Lake is a charming alternative to the enormity and complexity of next door neighbors, The Villages and busy Highway 441. It’s a cozy neighborhood canvassed by tree-lined streets draped with Spanish moss, surrounded by countryside dotted with orange groves and sparkling lakes. Attractions include the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum, the famed Log Cabin, and Uncle

Street, built in 1932, is the oldest movie theater in Central Florida. The theater is now home to the Tropic Troupe Children’s Theatre Group. Leesburg hosts several lively and crowd-pleasing annual events, including Mardi Gras: 12 Hours of Madness Party in the Street in February. The event transforms Main Street into Bourbon Street as jugglers, fire eaters, stilt walkers, brass jazz bands, face painting, kid-friendly rides and games and three parades keep the party going into the night. The Leesburg Bikefest in April is an even wilder, adult-oriented event. Turn to our list of festivals to learn more about “the world’s largest three-day motorcycle and music event.” The Spring Fish Fry at the Mote Morris House in April is a time-honored tradition where you can have all the fish you can eat while enjoying live entertainment. The Craft Beer, Wine and Food Fest, held in November at Venetian Gardens, is a colorful, popular event with live music that encourages revelers to travel

Donald’s Farm. Town Squares in The Villages nearby offer plenty of shopping and recreation. Gain new insights into the heritage of diversity and transformation of the town at the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum. Founded in 1992, The Lady Lake Historical Society collected artifacts, furniture, decorative arts, photographs and more. It soon outgrew the Log Cabin, now the official home of the Lady Lake

CITY G U I DE Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2000, the museum acquired the town’s old train depot, previously used as Lady Lake’s first public library. Major renovations occurred during the summer of 2014. The society completely changed the interior of the museum, creating an interactive environment that transports visitors into the past. Exhibitions include Early History, Founding Families, Military, Agriculture, Early Schools, Early Churches and the Beginning of The Villages. Uncle Donald’s Farm is like a dude ranch for farmers, a place where urbanites can milk a goat, pet a bristly pig, touch a chicken and feed a cow. Established in 1980, Uncle Donald’s Farm connects visitors with a variety of domesticated and wild animals. Experiences range from hand feeding cattle to watching for llamas and ostriches on the hayride. Attractions range from mild to wild: from the poultry patch, consisting of many

“heritage” breeds of chickens, like Jersey Giants, New Hampshire and lots of fancy bantams, to the wildlife display: home to panthers, deer, birds of prey, tortoises and exotic animals. Don’t forget to look inside the old red barn. Hint: close contact with the reptilian kind. The Villages is a huge retirement community that welcomes visitors to its three town squares for shopping, dining and nightly entertainment. Market Square especially is inviting. This colorful waterfront on Lake Sumter Landing reminds people of a quaint seaside village, complete with lighthouse. The landmark beacon beckons visitors, as if signaling fun and free entertainment to passersby: “Shop and dine at our assortment of lovely boutiques and restaurants, and while you are here, see a movie at the Old Mill Playhouse movie theater.” Its draw is irresistible.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

UNIQUE COMMUNITIES SPARKLE LIKE GEMS Lakefronts, friendliness, seaplanes and hometowns are the playful identities of what’s known as the Golden Triangle — Eustis, Tavares, Mount Dora and nearby towns. Each community offers numerous distinctive reasons for visiting for a day or putting down roots and staying for life. Here are some established must-do things and places to see that make this region a sparkling gem in Lake County’s crown. Lake Eustis

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YALAHA

Population: 1,298 Size: 2.2 square miles

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Astatula sits on the eastern shore of Little Lake Harris and is known as a transportation hub with access to major highways and roads. But it’s off-roading that draws many to Astatula. Coyote Mud Bog features mud pits, motocross tracks, trails for all-terrain vehicles, camping and an amphitheater. Stanley Pond Adventure Farm is another popular place for family fun.

Early on, Astatula was known as a great place to hunt, particularly for bears and alligators.

EUSTIS Population: 15,106 Size: 9.7 square miles The downtown waterfront district lends itself to festivals and events with the beautiful lake walk and renovated

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CITY G U I DE Ferran Park, site of the Mediterranean-style Alice McClelland Bandshell. Small-town charm, unique restaurants, museums, fishing, sailing and sunsets on Lake Eustis (one of the largest lakes in the Harris Chain of Lakes) and a variety of entertainment options make Eustis a popular destination. Start downtown. Walk down Orange Avenue and patronize a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars and shops. Walk off your meal on the Lake Walk, which extends a quarter mile and features four gazebos with benches, plus 20 boat slips. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Eustis from a seawall extending along the entire shoreline to the historic bandshell listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you enjoy history, you must visit the Eustis Historical Museum housed in the one-time residence of G.D. Clifford, who established the Clifford General Store and began the first mail service for the new settlement that became Eustis. The Clifford House on Bay Street

at the beer and wine tent. On the fourth Saturday of every month, historic downtown revs up with the Downtown Classic Cruise-In Car Show. For a night out on the town, everyone is buzzing about the newest hot spot, 1884 Restaurant and Bar. Housed in the old Ferran’s Department Store, 1884 is gaining raves with Executive Chef Jay Davis’ superb menu, deliberately limited for flair. Another new hot spot is the award-winning Barnwood Bar-B-Que. Owners Dan and Elaine Backhaus have gone up against some of the nation’s top barbecue teams and emerged victorious. Vegans will love the superb gluten-free and vegan friendly options at the brand new 31 Magnolia, a late-night venue with romantic setting and live music. THE ‘HERON’ AT FERRAN PARK

Eustis also is proud to host the annual Lake County Fair. Generally 80,000 people attend each year for the carnival, booths, live entertainment, creative arts, horticulture displays and the livestock shows. The Lake County Folk Festival, held in October and sponsored by the Lake Eustis Institute Public Art & Music Committee, is “… considered one of ered o the top five acoustic musicc festivals festivals in Florida,” said Miranda Burrows, urrow ws, public relations manager of Eustis. is.

HOWEY-INTHE-HILLS Population: 1,122 Size: 1.9 square re mile es miles The state’s first citrus juice ice plant pllant was built here in 1921 by William John iam Jo ohn Howey, the town’s founder. Today, er. day, the charming town is known as th the h home of Mission Inn Resort and Club, one of Florida’s premier golfing and spa destinations. SAN ANGEL TOWER AT MISSION INN

THE CLIFFORD HOUSE

is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum features the “Indiana Jones Room” dedicated to the memory of Dr. Edgar James Banks, an antiquarian and archeologist. On the first Friday of every month, the City of Eustis throws a community street party with live bands, aromatic food and a kid’s area. Adults shouldn’t miss Main Street’s famous margaritas

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If music is the town’s heart, art is its soul. Nine pieces of museum-quality art, including the iconic “Heron” sculpture by artist Doug Hays in Ferran Park, are sprinkled throughout the historic downtown area. The event season kicks off with the African American Heritage Festival and Parade in February, one of the longest running events in the region. By far the largest and most anticipated event in Eustis is GeorgeFest, the second-oldest festival in the nation celebrating George Washington’s birthday and the longest-running festival of any kind in Florida.

It’s also home to the quaint Howey Market, which offers groceries, madeto-order sandwiches, fresh produce, ice cream and more than 100 different cold craft beers. Howey-in-the-Hills still offers the

CITY G U I DE same unparalleled natural beauty that attracted early residents with its Griffin Waterfront Park and the Sara Maude Mason Nature Preserve. With so many outdoor activities available, Howey-inthe-Hills has become a natural eco-tourism destination.

TAVARES Population: 9,700 Size: 7.5 square miles The identity of Tavares and subsequently every facet of the town’s social, business and cultural life changed one day in 2006 when City Administrator John Drury walked to get lunch at a local restaurant. He observed a seaplane land and watched the pilot wallow through mud and

JOHN DRURY

reeds to get to O’Keefe’s Irish Pub. He thought, “Why not build a seaplane ramp for easy access?” Drury imagined a new identity for the City of Tavares. He imagined seaplanes landing in Tavares as a stopping point that would galvanize the people behind a w new motto: America’s Seaplane City. ne In 2010, he realized his dream. With an $8.3 million investment, Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina opened, va v immediately attracting seaplanes and iim businesses catering to seaplane pibu b lots. Next, family-friendly businesses llo arrived, which led to the revitalizaar a tion ttio of Wooton Park with kid-friendly attractions like the whimsical seaatt a plane-themed Splash Park and the Orpl p ange Blossom Cannonball steam engine an a train ride. Behind the playground, you ttra can ride the vintage train cars of the ca c Orange Blossom Cannonball, an auOr O thentic steam engine locomotive used tth in several big-screen epics. The ride bei tween Tavares and Mount Dora takes 90 minutes round trip (with a 45-minute layover in either town), and includes pizza and wine tastings, themed parties and staged train robberies. With the addition of the fabulous new pavilion just paces away, the Tavares downtown area has become a new premier hot spot for those seeking perfect balance between entertaining activity and small-town atmosphere. While on the waterfront, you may desire to do some shopping. In addition to the Prop Shop and the Orange Blossom Cannonball Train & Gift Shop, you’ll find specialty items in a number of unique boutiques, including Hoity Toity Mercantile, LadyBugs Gifts & Sundries, Bill Squires Copper Creations and Pat’s Fabulous Finds. A short drive or long walk away, the Historic Lake County Courthouse houses the Lake County Historic Museum. Like Leesburg, Tavares has several lively and crowd-pleasing festivals — 18, in fact. The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle hosts the Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival in

March, which is the main event of the year. “Racers from all over the world compete,” says Colleen McGinley, executive director of Tavares Chamber of Commerce. Planes, Trains and BBQ in April provides precision flying demonstrations and freefall maneuvers by the U.S. Special Operations Parachute team. On the ground, revelers enjoy train rides on the Orange Blossom Cannonball and award-winning barbecue. Some of the festivals are downright unique, such as the Spring Sea Plane Fly-in in May, which attracts seaplanes of every kind from all over the country; the Hydro Drag Jet Ski Nationals / Pro Hydro X Tour in June; the newest event, Rifles, Rails & History: Steam Back to the North and South, in September (a living history encampment that transports visitors and guests back 150 years to the Civil War) and the Howl-O-Fest in October.

MOUNT DORA Population: 12,534 Size: 8.02 square miles Mount Dora made two impressive lists in 2014. Smithsonian.com ranked Mount Dora 14th on its “One of the Best Small Towns to Visit” list; Best Choice Reviews named it 24th in a

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THE BOARDWALK TO PALM ISLAND

ranking of 50 Best Small Town Downtowns in America, and the American Planning Association bestowed its first annual Florida Great Places – People’s Choice Award to the city. Now the world knows what longtime Lake Countians have taken for granted: Mount Dora has charm galore, wonderful events that draw people from all over the world, a lakefront, fantastic dining and entertainment, super shopping, abundant natural beauty, and a thriving arts community. Mount Dora, in a word, is distinctive. After all, how many towns have a lighthouse? How many are built upon a mountain, albeit a small one? An oldtime locomotive? Recent improvements to downtown’s popular Sunset Park and other public facilities have enhanced the city’s already strong appeal. “Bustling” is another word that describes this vibrant community. Mount Dora hosts 10 major festivals a year. The biggie is the nationally acclaimed Mount Dora Arts Festival in February, although the annual crafts fair in late

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Mount Dora Brewing/Rocking Rabbit Brewery, Mr. Cebiche, Copa Cabana, Frog and Monkey, Pisces Rising, Vitality Bistro or Magical Meat Boutique. Mount Dora presents an inviting blend of new and old. A few common sight: Segways parked outside of Uncle Al’s Time Capsule and Oliver’s Twist Antiques & Appraisals; young couples walking along the pier behind the 102-year-old Mount Dora Yacht Club, kids riding bikes past old-timers playing bocce at the Mount Dora Lawn Bowling Club, which was founded in 1928 and is the oldest such club in the nation. There’s always something going on in Mount Dora, but that’s not to say the pace is fast. The city has 12 major parks and eight minor ones for relaxation and repose. One of the most popular places for quiet reflection is the rebuilt boardwalk at the end of Liberty Avenue that leads to Palm Island, an eight-acre nature preserve.

YALAHA Population: 1,364 Size: 14.8 square miles Settled in the mid-1800’s and surrounded by bodies of water, including Lake Harris, the community of Yalaha is nestled between Howey-in-the-Hills and Okahumpka, on County Road 48,

THE DONNELLY HOUSE

October draws a quarter million people each year. Mount Dora’s diverse roster of events includes festivals for bicycle enthusiasts, antique collectors, gardeners, and antique boat owners. Many visitors head straight to one of Mount Dora’s unique dining spots. Treat yourself to a memorable culinary experience at The Goblin Market,

CITY G U I DE accessible via Highway 27 or Highway 19. Many years ago, Yalaha was the shipping point to the North for area towns until the Jacksonville-Tampa railroad was constructed in 1884. Today, locals know Yalaha for one thing, the Yalaha Bakery. Designated “A bakery like

no other,” the family-owned bakery founded in 1995 serves genuine German breads and old-world tortes and pastries. The philosophy is to provide quality, fresh natural and organic products, while keeping the German recipes of old prevalent throughout the bakery. While the theme may be time-honored

and traditional, dietary needs such as gluten- and sugar-free are an integral part of the menu. The bakery also is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with a nice variety of options.

Lake Harris A RID O FL E PIK RN

SOUTH LAKE

Little Lake Harris

FAMILIES, NATURE LOVERS AND ATHLETES SAY “YES” TO SOUTH LAKE A true nature lover’s paradise, South Lake County has been dubbed Runner & Bicycle Friendly by Road Runners Club of America and The League of American Bicyclists, respectively. Home to over 80,000 residents, family-friendly South Lake County is centrally located to many area attractions, parks, golf courses, lakes and trails, theatres, shopping and dining options. While rich with history from those who first settled here, the cities of Clermont, Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola and Montverde are moving onward and upward to accommodate citizens’ needs. A diverse population ensures there’s literally something for everyone.

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CLERMONT Lake Louisa

CLERMONT Population: 28,742 Size: 13.633 square miles

LAKERIDGE WINERY

There are many attributes butes to Lake County’s largestt city, which is growing 20 miles west of Orlando. For starters, the historic oric downtown and city center nter continually progress without losing its charm. m. That appeal is enhanced nced by 23 area parks, lakes and rolling hills that provide de ample opportunities forr boating, fishing, kayaking, ng, swimming, hiking, walking, king, running, cycling and more. Other attributes and attractions include: • The Citrus Tower, thee highest observation point oint in Florida. • The Clermont Arts and nd Recreation Center houses ouses

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the largest performance hall in Lake County and is developing new forms of entertainment for the city. The National Training Center, a fitness facility, summons professional and Olympic athletes in various sports, including triathlon, cycling and running to live and train in the area. Lake Sumter State College and the University of Central Florida have a combined campus that offers many degree programs. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards The Hall of Presidents Museum Clermont Historic Village Weekly and seasonal festivals such as the Farmers Market & First Friday Food Trucks Waterfront Park Clermont Splash Pad, a 3,200 squarefoot water play area.

Bird watchers will enjoy the variety of species visible around Lake David Park, one of five parks, which also includes boat ramps, a playground, basketball courts, picnic tables and pavilions. The historical Community Center is utilized for city council and other events. Veterans Park, dedicated to local Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 188, South Lake County, is a town icon. Groveland’s Historical Museum was established in 2007 and displays relative memorabilia from decades past. • Clermont Boathouse, new headquarters for the Lake County Rowing Association.

MASCOTTE

GROVELAND

Population: 5,251 Size: 2.8 square miles

Population: 8,729 Size: 14.98 square miles Groveland, like most cities in the South Lake area, is tucked away far from larger cities, but still holds its own. Accessible by State Road 50, Highway 19 and Highway 33, the city feels spread out and consequently, smaller than it actually is.

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Mascotte prides itself on celebrating culture and community. The laid back community on State Road 50, just west of Groveland, is one of the fastest growing locales in Lake County, but residents seem determined to retain a small-town atmosphere. You’ll have to go somewhere else if you want to eat at a chain restau-

rant. The Rainbow Restaurant, which opened in 1964 and serves homemade donuts and a homecooked buffet, suits locals just fine. For nightlife, there’s The Breeze, where live music and good times are always on tap. Mascotte has plenty of character, much of it at the Jot-Em-Down Store, which is decorated with service station signs. Inside, shoppers with find antiques, curious curios including Florida and Lake County memorabilia, Disneyana, home accent pieces, yard art, even the proverbial kitchen sink. At Virginia’s Square Dance Apparel, you’ll find dresses, petticoats, pettipants, shirts, blouses, shoes, string ties, neckerchiefs and everything else you

CITY G U I DE need for your next square dance. A number of unique businesses — like Maria’s Mexican Store — cater to Mascotte’s sizeable Hispanic population. Mascotte is also a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of nature. One of the most popular spots for relaxing is Sunset Lake Park, which whi is a mirror image of Myers Lake from television’s Mayberry. televi

MONTVERDE Population: 1,498 Size: 1.8 square miles

MINNEOLA Population: 9,403 Size: 10.34 square miles Minneola, conveniently located along Highway 27 in a country setting, offers quiet living with quick access to larger surrounding cities. Trailhead Park is a 17-acre park offering a playground, basketball courts, ball field, pavilion and dog park. The scenic park connects to South Lake, Lake Minneola Scenic and West Orange Trails, and gives access to over 30 miles for walking, cycling, skating or running. A community garden allows residents to purchase lots to

grow their own organic produce. Lake Minneola Inn features the Tiki Bar & Grill. Situated at the water’s edge at Lake Minneola, this locale is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature, while noshing on American fare. Another fabulous eatery is Jack’s Barbeque. Its slogan, “When the chimney ain’t smokin’, we ain’t open” is pretty accurate. It’s not fancy, but the barbeque speaks for itself. Those with a sweet tooth must visit The Donut King, a local family-owned specialty donut shop featuring homemade donuts, pastries, castle burgers and more. This popular location, just a stone’s throw south of Jack’s, is open 24 hours. Self-control is encouraged.

Montverde’s charm is evident at the civic complex that includes the town hall, the Franklin Pearce Jr. Auditorium, the library, the fire department, post office, picnic pavilions, basketball courts, and an oak-shaded park where movies are shown and festivals held. The 125-acre campus of Montverde Academy is also picturesque, but the 103-year-old private school has also become a prep basketball powerhouse. The Eagles won their third consecutive national championship in April. The Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy and Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy also draw first-rate athletes. Montverde Academy has an enrollment of more than 1,000 students, including more than 300 boarding students from 13 states across America and 48 countries. And the school is expanding. The stately academy also has an equestrian center adjacent to the town’s Methodist Church. And speaking of development, Bella Collina’s luxury lifestyle in serene surroundings is attracting new residents. At Lake Florence Park, a safe place for kids to play and for adults to watch the sun set over the water and hills. Take a good look around, there’s plenty to see. When hunger strikes, visit Green Mountain Pizza.

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WELCOME TO SUMTER COUNTY THE RAMBLING ROADS AND FAMILIAR BYWAYS OF SUMTER COUNTY MAKE IT A PERFECT PLACE TO ESCAPE THE RUSH OF MODERN LIFE. STILL A HOME TO A THRIVING AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY AND THE LARGEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY IN THE WORLD, SUMTER COUNTY OFFERS MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE. OF COURSE, THERE IS STILL GREAT FISHING, SWIMMING, HIKING, GOLFING, BIKING…WELL, YOU NAME THE OUTDOOR ACTIVITY, AND YOU CAN ENJOY IT HERE ALONG WITH GREAT LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND SHOPPING. THE GEOGRAPHICAL CENTER OF FLORIDA, SUMTER COUNTY HAS THE FLORIDA TURNPIKE, WHICH MEANS EASY ACCESS TO BIGGEST TOWNS AND CITIES AS WELL AS ATTRACTIONS. BUSHNELL IS THE COUNTY SEAT, AND ALONG WITH OTHER TOWNS AND COMMUNITIES, IT’S A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK, AND HAVE YOUR CHILDREN IN EXCELLENT SCHOOLS.

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OXFORD Population: 2,976 People began moving into the town of Oxford around 1870, but at that time, it was called Sandspur. The name was eventually changed because of problems created by a pond near the road south of town. When it overflowed, travelers had to get teams of oxen to cross the road. This may have led to the name Oxford. The stagecoach was the main mode of transportation until the railroad came in 1882. This led to town growth and the building of City Hall. Businesses added were a newspaper, an area for commercial business, a crate mill, and three churches. Changes were still coming, however, with the big freeze of 1894-95, which meant the few families that stayed went with truck farming and cantaloupes became the big crop. Today, tomatoes are the staple in and around Oxford. The town’s growth continues as it progresses in the 21st century, including the 40-bed Promise Hospital of Florida at The Villages and various assisted-living facilities.

medical facilities, shopping, and local government buildings. With 2,400 organized clubs and more holes of golf than any community in the world, you can bet there’s always something to do. Find unique vendors at the town square Market Nights. Every Monday and Wednesday at Spanish Springs and Tuesday and Thursday at Lake Sumter Landing, you can browse among the booths while listening to live music. Everything in the three town squares is open to the public, and they all have movie theaters that feature the latest releases.

THE VILLAGES Population: 51,442 Size: 32.1 square miles This community could definitely borrow from the movie, “Field of Dreams.” Creator Harold Schwartz was sure “if you build it, they will come,” and they did. The popular retirement community began as Orange Blossom Gardens, a mobile home village. It now spans three counties (Sumter, Lake, Marion) and offers “free golf for life” to residents. Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing, and Paddock Town Squares have entertainment nightly, and everything is accessible by golf cart, including

WILDWOOD Population: 7,252 Size: 5.2 square miles Because of its advantageous location near The Villages, Wildwood has seen significant growth along with the retirement community. The third town

center, Paddock Square, is located in Wildwood and more retail outlets and restaurants are opening regularly. Downtown Wildwood still has a number of favorite places to shop and eat, along with local government buildings. Wildwood has an interesting history. The traditional story passed down by folks in this area says a crew surveying to put a telegraph line in south of Ocala had to report in regularly. When the surveyor was asked where he was, his answer was, “I don’t know, except in the wild woods.” Historians believe Isaac W. Barwick, a 25-year-old entrepreneur from Georgia, settled Wildwood by choosing the area for his lumber operation. He also built a town square along with a few stores and homes. Like most of this area, agriculture was king, and most of the products grown were used by residents. When the Lee family of Leesburg opened canals, it made transporting local products easier. Wildwood’s reach continued to grow with the railroads lines coming south from Ocala. The original city hall was an eight-sided building called the Wigwam by locals. It was the heart of the rural community, featuring a skating rink and recreation hall for the youth in town. Wildwood reflected the bad times of the rest of the country during The Great Depression, but the local government kept the city alive by lowering taxes to

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CITY G U I DE help residents. When railroads declined, town leaders kept looking to the future and made way for a shopping center and the Florida Turnpike, which restarted the growth in the area.

LAKE PANASOFFKEE Population: 3,551 Size: 4 square miles Settled around 1880, Panasoffkee (comes from the Muskogee: pani [valley] and sufki [deep] creating deep valley) at one time had the title, “Fruit Center of the World.” This was sweetened by the barrels of sugar and syrup shipped north along with the oranges. Several families developed the agricultural aspects of the town, and it was graced with many old colonial homes, and residents enjoyed the bountiful hunting and fishing. Once again, the great freeze of 1894-95 wiped out most of the citrus, although the Monarch and Ventura groves, planted under the canopies of the big oak trees, survived.

Lake Panasoffkee was a turpentine center until the trees sapped out, and the land went to a lumber company. The huge sawmill destroyed the peacefulness, but the town still grew until all the pine and cypress trees were gone, and families began leaving again. These days, the snowbirds love it because there’s still great hunting and

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fishing. Water sports and great eating spots, like Harbor Lights on Lake Pansoffkee and Catfish Johnny’s, keep residents and tourists eating in town.

BUSHNELL Population: 2,050 Size: 2.4 square miles This is the county seat for Sumter County and home to the historic Dade Battlefield State Park. Every year in January, reenactors and history lovers

come to the beautiful park to participate in or watch the reenactment of the battle that started the Second Seminole War. The battle began with 108 U.S. soldiers and only three survived. Today, the land looks much as it did during the battle in 1835. When you walk the half-mile trail through the towering pines, you may see gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, hawks, and even indigo snakes. There’s a playground, a picnic area with covered shelters, and a recreation hall. You may want to visit the Glade

Herp Farm, which is featured on “Swamp Brothers,” a show on the Discovery Channel. For home-style eating, visit Howie’s Family Restaurant or TJ’s Family Restaurant.

WEBSTER Population: 805 Size: 1.3 square miles Known at one time as the “Cucumber Capitol,” Webster is the oldest unincorporated town in Sumter County. It was settled in 1855 and applied for the city name Orange Home in 1870. That name was taken, so the postmaster picked up his Webster’s Dictionary and decided to call the town Webster. The famous Webster Westside Flea Market has been around for more than 50 years and takes up 35 acres in an 80-acre compound of open-air markets. Produce, jewelry, plants, furniture, and much more are available among the many offerings. It’s always open, rain or shine.

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With Lake County Commissioner Welton Cadwell in the driver’s seat of the newly formed Central Florida Expressway Authority, residents find themselves in the fast lane toward economic benefit.

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Lake County has not seen a major expressway development within its borders since the 1950s. That will soon change, along with the landscape and economic impact, with the newly created regional Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX). CFX has a nine-member board that includes six elected officials and three governor appointees, its jurisdiction includes Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties, and the agency can now consider multimodal opportunities. The good news gets better. The chairman for the new Central Florida Expressway Authority is Lake County Commissioner, Welton Cadwell. What Chairman Cadwell’s leadership offers Lake County is a significant voice on a new project that will impact the region and its economy: the Wekiva Parkway. The Wekiva Parkway (State Road 429) is the 25-mile tolled expressway that will connect to State Road 417, essentially closing the gap between US 441 and I-4, and complete the beltway around Metro Orlando. This parkway is being developed jointly by CFX and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The estimated $1.6 billion project involves $500 million of non-toll road improvements benefiting Lake County including: widening seven miles of SR 46 in Lake and Seminole Counties, rebuilding the US 441/SR 46 interchange in Mount Dora, a multi-use trail alongside segments of the parkway in east Lake and Seminole Counties, and shifting the CR 46A connection to SR 46 to protect wildlife. The project also includes several wildlife bridges and more than 3,400 acres set aside for conservation. The good news gets even better. The CFX board also secured a $194 million TIFIA (Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovations Act) loan from the Federal Government to move the

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“We are an appealing place to live, and we want to live [here]. “It gives us a voice in the one thing that connects us all—and that is that road network.”

COMMISSIONER CADWELL IN HIS 4TH GRADE SCHOOL PICTURE.

project forward faster, a priority for Lake County. The bulk of the Wekiva Parkway will be completed in 2019, with the remainder targeted for 2021. The magnitude of such a project

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means Chairman Cadwell’s leadership affects the entire county. Born in Lake County and a commissioner for 23 years, Cadwell wants residents to know this project is not Orlando encroaching on Lake County, rather Lake County gaining access to Orlando. “We are an appealing place to live, and we want to live [here],” said Cadwell. “It gives us a voice in the one thing that connects us all—and that is that road network.” It is a quality of life issue. “Our motto in Lake County is: Real Florida, real close. We applied that to CFX, so if you live in Lake County but need to travel to Seminole or Orange County for work, education, or entertainment, you will be able to save anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, and be home with your family, rather than stuck on US 441 or SR 46,” said Cadwell. “Consider this: you will be able to live in a quaint, small town neighborhood in Lake County, like Leesburg or Mount Dora, but be able to attend a Magic or UCF game in a matter of minutes, providing additional quality time,” Cadwell said. “That time can mean being more productive at work, more productive

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at school, or even better—more time at home with your family.” While the completion of the Wekiva Parkway is something to look forward to, right now Lake County residents can benefit from new customer discounts on the CFX beltway. Under Chairman Cadwell’s leadership, the CFX board approved a commuter-relief E-PASS program which, combined with volume discounts, will give back approximately $16 million to customers over the next year. “His leadership on this new board has absolutely been impactful to the customers and staff,” said Michelle Maikisch, chief of staff and public affairs officer at CFX. “In the future we will see a regional agency truly thinking: customer first, financially sound and seeking the connections to make our region competitive on a national basis.” ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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THE PRIORITY IS THE PATIENT, NOT THE ILLNESS Dr. Tarek Bakdash believes compassion and caring are essential parts of any diagnosis.

Tarek Bakdash, MD is not just a neurologist, he is also a compassionate, conscientious, caring human being who believes that treating a patient is so much more than dealing with an illness. Dr. Bakdash’s philosophy is to treat each patient with the same care he would give to his own family member. “In my religious belief, saving one soul is like saving the entire humanity,” Dr. Bakdash said. “That is why when the Emergency Room calls me for a stroke

drill, I am prompted to see the patient and make critical, life-saving decision by providing accurate and immediate treatment.” Dr. Bakdash has privileges at Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Regional Hospital, which make up the Central Florida Health Alliance. In addition to being board certified in psychiatry and neurology, Dr. Bakdash is certified in neuromuscular care, a subspecialty that is relatively new.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves controlling voluntary muscles, like those in your arms and legs. These diseases are often rare and genetic or inherited. That’s why it’s so important for Dr. Bakdash to have a personal relationship with each patient and their families. “I can’t just focus on the brain. I have to focus on the entire aspect of the nervous system,” Dr. Bakdash said. “I’m on a mission with a patient to learn everything I can to define what the problem is.”

First, he makes the patient feel comfortable by letting the patient know he is focused on that particular area. “Sometimes when a patient comes here, they really don’t know why they’re seeing a neurologist. I acknowledge all the patient’s complaints and put together their symptoms and other medical history to make a clearer diagnosis,” Dr. Bakdash said. “This patient has several problems and has probably seen multiple doctors before coming here.” Dr. Bakdash studies the patient as one who would study a puzzle, putting all the pieces together to create the perfect picture of that patient. “What I do is acknowledge, listen, and analyze the entire problem.” “I had a patient who was a flight attendant in her 50s, and she had what was termed a ‘nervous breakdown.’ She was diagnosed with dementia,” Dr. Bakdash said. “When she came to us, she did not behave like someone with Alzheimer’s. While there was anxiety, there was no continuing evidence of dementia.” Dr. Bakdash sees the patientphysician relationship as precious, confidential and deeper than a family relationship. The patient provides confidential medical history and personal life experiences that aid in diagnosis. “Doctors often spend more time with the patients than we spend with our family. That means if I’m not there for my patient, that relationship is inefficient.” After careful examination and developing a relationship with the flight attendant, Dr. Bakdash was sure her problem was not dementia. Rather, he believed she was experiencing anxiety; a problem treatable with medication and talk therapy. His deeper understanding of her personality and her physical issues helped him reach this conclusion. Extensive dialogue with the patient is imperative to finding an accurate diagnosis, so Dr. Bakdash makes it

a point to take the time to see his patients. “Poor communication with the patient is a major failure of the physician-patient relationship that we value and are keen to maintain in neurology at Central Florida Health Alliance,” Dr. Bakdash said. He compares giving a diagnosis of this nature to the verdict a jury presents after reviewing all the evidence. “Like a responsible jury, I am very keen to provide the patient with the accurate and fair verdict/diagnosis.”

told her she could take it orally.” The problem came when the doctor didn’t explain the correct dosage of the oral vitamins to the patient, which confused her. “She was taking less than what was needed, but it was a problem that was very simple to fix.” Dr. Bakdash wants patients to know he is there to help. “People come to a doctor for answers,” he said. “I take the time to choose what needs to be done with care because I am dealing with human beings.”

“As we get older, we have issues, things that need attention, just like a vehicle”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

“As we get older, we have issues, things that need attention, just like a vehicle,” Dr. Bakdash said. “Things in a car get older and must be attended to, like changing the oil and lubing various parts or tuning the engine. It’s the same with our bodies.” In order to provide optimal care for his patients, Dr. Bakdash has chosen to practice the entire field of neurology and its disorders of the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nerves. “For example, a patient with Parkinson’s disease, whose illness involves the brain, can also suffer from nerve or muscle disease. It is imperative that the neurologist care for both conditions,” Dr. Bakdash said. Dr. Bakdash believes that helping a patient is as simple as explaining in detail how the medication is taken. “One of my patients needed to take B-12 shots, but when she went to her primary care doctor, he

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

________________________________

TAREK BAKDASH, MD 1400 US Hwy 441 Bldg. 500, Suite 524 The Villages, FL 32159 352.751.8790

From (L-R) Nicole Silberstein, Charles Smith, Gregory Prevatt and Michael Monteith

Attention to Your Financial Details… means working toward your goal of living the lifestyle you have always envisioned. Knowing you have the resources in place to enjoy the next stage of your life is important in achieving those goals. Perhaps you want to master a new language, or travel to

see family. Moving ﬁnancial worry away from the front of your mind can put big concerns to rest. With discretionary portfolio models and planning tools we can build a plan based on your risk tolerance. As portfolio managers, we manage your portfolio on a daily basis, guiding your objectives from developing a health care strategy to helping you attend to estate planning needs. You’ve spent your working years building a legacy. Now let’s work to build the next phase of your life. Knowing you have a ﬁnancial advisor who can walk that path with you may mean the difference between living, and enjoying, your retirement. Protect what you want for today, and what you need for tomorrow.

Charles H. Smith, Sr. CWS® Senior Vice President Portfolio Management Director Wealth Advisor charlie.smith@morganstanley.com

Gregory Prevatt, CLTC, CFP® First Vice President Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor gregory.prevatt@morganstanley.com

Michael Monteith Financial Planning Specialist Portfolio Manager Financial Advisor michael.monteith@morganstanley.com

Nicole Silberstein

The Smith Prevatt Monteith Group at Morgan Stanley 832 Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages, FL 32162

Client Service Associate nicole.silberstein@morganstanley.com

352.751.7845 • Toll free 800.447.6036

morganstanleyfa.com/smithprevattmonteith Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers insurance products in conjunction with its licensed insurance agency affiliates. This material is intended only for clients and prospective clients of the Portfolio Management program. It has been prepared solely for informational purposes only and is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell any security or other financial instrument, or to participate in any trading strategy. The individuals mentioned as the Portfolio Management Team are Financial Advisors with Morgan Stanley participating in the Morgan Stanley Portfolio Management program. The Portfolio Management program is an investment advisory program in which the client’s Financial Advisor invests the client’s assets on a discretionary basis in a range of securities. The Portfolio Management program is described in the applicable Morgan Stanley ADV Part 2, available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV or from your Financial Advisor. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and Federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US. © 2015. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC CRC 1091404 01/15

VIA ICITY A PORT PORT

CITY G U I DE

G U I DE

SHOPPING October O Oct Oc c ob obe ber 20 be 01 15 5

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ANTIQUES FINDING UNIQUE TREASURES IN EVERY CORNER When it comes to shopping and antiquing, Lake and Sumter County offer an array of antique shops and malls. Whether you are seeking furniture or jewelry, primitives or fine art, the objects of your desires are near where you live or just a short distance away. For a fruitful time of finding hidden treasures, visit one of many shops or browse one of several antique markets featuring a colorful collection of vendors. Since Lake and Sumter are so close, it’s easy to make a day of shopping at several places. Here’s a listing of some of the most popular one-of-a-kind stores in Lake and Sumter counties:

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GregYager GENERAL MANAGER, PLAZA CADILLAC

As Plaza Cadillac general manager, Greg Yager has a mission for the dealership—to give back to the community. He does so through charity work, both personally and professionally. Yager’s involvement spans various charities for organizations, clubs and chambers. Since 2004, he has been a devout member of the Golden Triangle Kiwanis Club, served as a past president, and is involved with the club’s Terrific Kids program. Throughout his 20-year career with Plaza Cadillac, he applied the same generous spirit. Currently, with the help of Style magazine, Plaza Cadillac is hosting their first-ever Test Drive for Charity program. Anyone who registers gisters online through plazacadillac.com or lakeandsumterstyle.com, and takes a test drive ve through any of the Plaza dealerships, will receive ive a $50 donation to the listed charity of their choice. It began Sept. 1, and has a yearlong commitment. Yager ger emphasizes that although they are based in Leesburg, their commitment is to all of Lake and nd Sumter County.

“I love Lake because the county’s ounty’s charitable spirit matches es my own. That, and the country ry setting reminds me of my former mer Indiana farm life.”

8893 893 US Hwy 441 Leesburg, esburg, FLL 34788 352.787.1323 PlazaCadillac.com zaCadillac.com

CITY G U I DE CLERMONT / MINNEOLA VINTAGE VIEW 789 W. Montrose St., Clermont 352.243.9977

MAIN STREET ANTIQUES MALL 201 W. Main St. 352.460.4806

VICTORIA’S ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE 113 N. 7th St., Leesburg 352.728.8668

HEN’S NEST

MOUNT DORA

127 W. Washington St., Minneola 352.242.9484

BENTON’S ANTIQUES

EUSTIS

354 North Highland St. 352.735.2790

CURIOSITY SHOP

3RD GENERATION ANTIQUES, INC. 121 N. Bay St. 352.483.4367

20651 U.S. Highway 441 863.381.0675

OLD SOUTH STAINED GLASS & ANTIQUE MALL

KADEEKAY GOURMENT KITCHEN PRODUCTS

320 S. Grove St. 352.589.0034

237 West 4th Ave., Suite 2 352.383.3600

PEDDLER’S WAGON

LEGACIES ANTIQUE BOOKS & MORE

25 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.483.2797

137 North Highland St. 352.729.2677

INSPIRED 365

OLIVER’S TWIST ANTIQUES, ESTATE SALES AND APPRAISALS

1400 S. Bay St. 352.483.7467

404 N. Donnelly St. 352.735.3337

LEESBURG RENNINGER’S ANTIQUES CENTER

ALADA’S CHINA & GIFTS

20651 U.S. Highway 441 352.383.8393

415 W. Main St. 352.728.0033

ANOTHER LOOK UPSCALE CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE 609 W. Main St. 352.323.3396

DOGGIBAGS BOUTIQUE 601 W. Main St. 352.326.8090

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CITY G U I DE DE THEE CLOCKMAKER’S SHOPPE In-home service 352.735.5200

UNIQUE ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES 20651 U.S. Highway 441 772.215.1680

VICTORIAN GALLERY, INC. 20651 U.S. Highway 441 407.896.9346

VILLAGE ANTIQUE MALL 405 North Highland St. 352.385.0257

ZEN COWGIRL 411 N. Donnelly St., Suite 107 352.223.3246

TAVARES THROUGH THE YEARS VINTAGE MARKET 102 E. Alfred St. 352-508-9727

WILDWOOD WILDWOOD ANTIQUE MALL 364 Shopping Center Dr. 352.330.2800

RETAIL BUSINESS IS BOOMING AS AN INFLUX OF NEW RETAILERS RING UP CONSIDERABLE SALES AND LONG-ESTABLISHED STORES EXPAND, DIVERSIFY AND CONTINUE TO PROVIDE BARGAINS AND VALUE.

TRADITIONS ANTIQUE MALL 3107 E. State Road 44 352.748.6255

BUSHNELL SHIRLEY’S ANTIQUES 224 N. Main Street 352.793.1709

LEESBURG Retail rebirth is nearly complete in Leesburg, where a $3.8 million project is transforming the Main Street corridor with asphalt resurfacing, decorative sidewalks, crosswalks and streetlights, a large entry feature at the intersection of U.S. 27, and upgraded water and sewer lines and stormwater collection. Contrary to reports citing demise, the ViaPort Mall is alive. In fact, vital signs are improving as new owners try to reverse an exodus of once-popular retailers. The mall has new eateries and stores,

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CITY G U I DE

ONCE FAMOUS AS “THE ANTIQUES CAPITAL,” MOUNT DORA NOW BOASTS A WIDE VARIETY OF RETAIL, GIFT AND SPECIALTY SHOPS, STORES AND BOUTIQUES.

including The I Want That! toy store, Cuba Pichy’s Cuisine, Fabulous Finds furniture store and Style of Life. A kids zone will be added and the food court has been renovated. In addition, discussions are underway to revamp the AMC 12-screen movie theatre.

MOUNT DORA Mount Dora is moving into the third phase of its downtown streetscape project. New businesses include the Spice & Tea Exchange and Mermaid Juice Antique Shop. And things are hopping on the outskirts as well. The big news: The former K-Mart is now occupied by TJ Maxx and Ross Dress For Less. These are just a few shopping opportunities recently added to an already diverse list. But it’s old, along with the new, that really makes Lake & Sumter Counties a shopper’s paradise. You’ve hit the jackpot if you favor antique stores and malls, thrift shops and consignment shops. So fill up the gas tank and head out. Bargains await you!

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JoeZiler PRESIDENT

“My company, Kevco Builders, is the most award-winning custom home builder and remodeler in Central Florida. Recently, Kevco Builders was ranked in Inc. Magazine’s “2015 Inc. 5000,” their list of fastest-growing companies in America. It’s very rewarding that a local business with local ownership and local clients receives a prestigious national honor like this. This award wouldn’t have been possible without the wonderful people of Lake County who have graciously supported my business throughout the years. That’s why I do my best to give back to the community. I’ve been a Lake County resident for 10 years and have developed many wonderful relationships.”

“I love Lake

for the wonderful people who have graciously supported my business throughout the years”

2104 S. Bay St. Eustis, FL 34748 352.742.3398 KevcoBuilders.com

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DINING October 20 15

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GREAT RESTAURANTS ARE PROSPERING THROUGHOUT LAKE AND SUMTER COUNTY, AND THE LAST 12 MONTHS HAVE SEEN A NUMBER OF UNIQUE EATERIES OPEN. HERE’S A LOOK AT THE LATEST, AND IN SOME CASES GREATEST, DINING ESTABLISHMENTS TO FIRE UP THEIR OVENS.

LAKECOUNTY DINING

Sip Jazz and Wine Bar 707 W. Main St., Leesburg

Salads, paninis, and a large selection of wines and beer complemented by live jazz and blues music in a swanky atmosphere. There’s no other place like it in Leesburg.

GATEWAY TO THE FOREST

Blackwater Inn 55716 Front Street, Astor

On the shore of the St. John’s River, where you’ll find fresh seafood and fish, crisp fresh vegetables on the salad bar, and petite meals for discerning diners.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

1884 Restaurant and Bar 12 E. Magnolia Ave., Eustis

Fine dining, full bar and live music nightly. Hand-cut steaks, pork chops, fish and more are served in a sophisticated atmosphere in one of Eustis’ most distinctive historic buildings.

NORTHWEST LAKE COUNTY

Confessore Pasta Cucina 2468 Highway 441, Fruitland Park

Decades-old family recipes are the star at this restaurant across from the Fruitland Park Flea Market. Enjoy numerous sauces and a variety of pastas, authentic entrees, and homemade garlic bread. Madefrom-scratch desserts include ricotta cheesecake.

Turners Kitchen + Bar 114 S 5th Street, Leesburg

Turners Kitchen and Bar is a nod to the one-time “Turner’s Bakery” that held the same location in downtown Leesburg. Only open a few short months and it’s already rated Trip Advisors #1 restaurant for the Leesburg area. They present dishes that turn down-

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1884 RESTAURANT AND BAR

TURNERS KITCHEN+BAR

home cooking into upscale dining. Ingredients are fresh, local, and artfully prepared. The ambiance is rustic elegance, while the pricing remains reasonable. Try one of their express lunches; only 5 dollars when you buy a beverage, and are served with your choice of soup.

.com

Jdance’s Smokehouse 1707 South St., Leesburg

Leesburg High School grad John Dance is back in town after operating award-winning BBQ restaurants in Kentucky and Texas… and he’s literally smoking — brisket, ribs, chopped pork, chicken, sausage and sides.

CITY G U I DE Barnwood BBQ

Magical Meat Boutique

50 W. Orange Ave., Eustis

112 W. 3rd Avenue, Mount Dora

One of the best barbecue masters in the nation has built a following with ribs, smoked brisket, chicken and other barbecue fare. Pitmaster Dan Backhaus’ grilling magic produced a seventh-place finish at the Best-ofthe-Best National BBQ Competition.

British-style carvery featuring beef, pork, turkey and lamb. British sausages made in house daily. Fish and chips, prawn cocktail crisps, Scotch egg, white pudding, and bangers and mash. Casual atmosphere and a patio. Extra-cold British beer.

Beef O’Brady’s 6551 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Mount Dora

Drink and food specials daily. Wings are available in 12 sauces; diners can also feast on burgers and other family favorites. Daily specials include $5.49 Burger Mondays and Taco Tuesdays. Also, enjoy pizza and flatbreads at this popular sports bar.

Mellow Mushroom 18221 Highway 441, Mount Dora

Upscale and artisan pizzas include the Bayou Bleu (spicy bleu cheese base topped with grilled shrimp, Andouille sausage, mozzarella, and chives). Other menu items include hoagies, calzones, salads and more. There are daily drink specials offered at the bar and also a kid’s menu.

Hurricane Grill & Wings 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares

Wings served in 35 flavors! The restaurant also offers burgers, seafood, and a kick-off-your-shoes atmosphere on the waterfront. The Mahi tacos are recommended. Sand volleyball and TVs for sports fans. Take advantage of the full bar and happy hour specials. You can find their second location at 1203 Sunrise Plaza Drive in Clermont.

Mr. Cebiche 411 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora

Peruvian! You won’t find two menus like this in Lake County. Try the triple clasico, which includes four slices of bread, cream of mayonnaise, tomato, avocado and chicken (or tuna or egg salad), Lomo Saltado — marinatedd strips of sirloin, stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, cilantro and sweet peppers on top of French fries.

Jersey Mikes Subs 17256 Highway 441, Mount Dora

More than two dozen hot and cold subs and wraps, kid’s meals, and Jersey Mike’s one-of-a-kind “Sub in a Tub” salad.

MAGICAL MEAT BOUTIQUE

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CITY G U I DE SOUTH LAKE COUNTY

Zab Thai

Texas Roadhouse

1660 E. Highway 50, Clermont

2457 S. Highway 27, Clermont

Hand-cut steaks, ribs, catfish, fried chicken, salads, made-from-scratch sides, gluten-free items and more are preceded by peanuts and yeast rolls.

The décor comes straight from various southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand…and so does the food. Tantalize your taste buds by ordering shrimp fresh rolls with a creamy homemade peanut sauce, tom kha chicken soup, curries, rice dishes, pad Thai, or sushi.

ZAB THAI

SUMTER COUNTY DINING BUSHNELL 2082 West CR 48, Bushnell

Authentic Mexican cuisine served up hot…and spicy if you like it! Everything from guacamole to Salsa Verde served with fresh ingredients and spiced to your palate.

“I love Harbor Lights in Lake Panasoffkee... the view of the lake is beautiful and the food is wonderful, all dishes are made from scratch. My husband and I enjoy this local place the most!” SUSAN MOORE, LAKE PANASOFFKEE

“I would say Hurricane Dockside and Lake Harris Hideaway are my favorite places to eat. What better way to embrace living in Lake County than sitting waterside eating a meal. I think we need more lakefront restaurants. — ROBERT CHANDLER, DIRECTOR, LAKE COUNTY ECONOMIC GROWTH DEPARTMENT

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1858 W CR 48, Bushnell

A favorite among locals and a quick stop off I-75. Serving light meals and hand-dipped or soft-serve ice cream with delightful toppings. WILDWOOD

Coyote Rojo

I LOVE TO EAT THERE!

Lickety Splits

Cotillion Southern Café 101 Main Street, Wildwood Homemade southern cuisine with an amazing array of flavors. Chicken and waffles served with buttermilk syrup made in the restaurant and the made-from-scratch desserts are different daily.

Even if you’ve been in this area for years, you may not have hit all the high spots of local dining. Add to that the number of new restaurants opened in response to the growth of the area, and you’ll find great dining throughout Lake and Sumter counties: “My favorite restaurant in Lake County is Goblin Market. Any dish I’ve ever ordered there has been excellent, and the ambiance is very romantic.” — CARMAN CULLEN-BATT, DIRECTOR, THE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION OF LAKE COUNTY

“Cody’s Roadhouse. I’ve never had a bad meal there. Or Cracker Barrel.” — BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON, ENTERTAINER

“I like trying various restaurants in Lake County, but the one I go to most often is Angelo’s. The pasta and lasagna are outstanding. I like going there for lunch because you can get in and out quickly and return to work.” — EMOGENE STEGALL, LAKE COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

1884 RESTAURANT AND BAR OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: 11A.M.–12A.M. // LUNCH, DINNER, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 12 EAST MAGNOLIA AVENUE, EUSTIS // 1.800.856.1884 // WWW.1884RESTAURANTANDBAR.COM Located in the historic Ferran’s building in downtown Eustis, 1884 Restaurant and Bar is a must for all to discover. The restaurant, which is open from 11am to Midnight 7 days a week, has everything from Boar’s Head wraps and pressed sandwiches at lunch to hand-cut filets and the signature double-bone, two-inch thick pork chop at dinner. Sushi Bar on Friday and Saturday nights and all day Sunday! With more than 10,000 square feet, 1884 can accommodate an intimate dinner for two to a private event in one of the 3 semi private rooms. Diners can also enjoy the full-service bar while ordering custom craft cocktails and eight rotating beers on tap. “Wine Down Wednesday” features $4 house wines. By using the most local and fresh ingredients, the chefs and bartenders will amaze you with their talent. Dinner and daily specials begining at 5 pm with happy hour from 4:30 - 6:30. No doubt, there’s something for everyone at 1884. This restaurant has won in 4 categories for the 2015 Lake and Sumter Style’s Hot list: Best server - Shelly Jaggers, Best bartender - Chelsea harkness, Best Cocktail, and Best Girls Night out. They were also named as Open Table’s Restaurant of the Month. Call 1.800.856.1884 to reserve your table or book your party now. Join the email list at www.1884restaurantandbar.com to be the first to know of all specials, entertainers and events.

BARNWOOD BBQ AND COUNTRY KITCHEN 50 W. ORANGE AVE., EUSTIS. // 352.630.4903 // WWW.BARNWOODBBQ.COM Mouth-watering barbecue. A family-like atmosphere. Old-fashioned service. Those are three qualities that patrons of Barnwood BBQ and Country Kitchen in Eustis experience upon each visit. Owners Dan and Elaine Backhaus have discovered that the recipe behind delicious barbecue is cooking meats low and slow over smoldering wood. That method has served them well, both for their restaurant and food truck business. Diners can also purchase Barnwood’s delicious, award-winning barbecue sauces and special seasonings. Popular breakfast items include a ham-and-cheese omelet, smoked sausage omelet, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and a variety of breakfast combinations. The restaurant’s equally delicious lunch items include a three-rib sandwich, pulled pork sandwich, beef brisket platter, smoked country sausage platter, mushroom Swiss burger, and grilled Reuben sandwich. Burgers, soups, and salads are also available. Be sure to top off your meal with one of Barnwood’s popular desserts, which include fruit cobbler and dark-chocolate brownies. HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 7A.M. TO 3P.M. LOCATION: 50 W. ORANGE AVE. IN EUSTIS. CONTACT: 352.630.4903 OR VISIT WWW.BARNWOODBBQ.COM.

COUSIN VINNIE’S FAMILY SPORTS RESTAURANT OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK: 11A.M.–9P.M. // FOOD, SPIRITS, MUSIC, SPORTS 10700 U.S. HWY. 441, LEESBURG // 352.253.2442 // WWW.CVINNIES.COM Cousin Vinnie’s is located on U.S. Hwy. 441 across from the new Via Port Florida Mall. Owner “Cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a sports bar with a family restaurant. Vinnie’s is famous for outstanding food and even better service! They also have been voted BEST WINGS in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014. Additional menu items offered are killer ½ lb. burgers, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheese steaks, healthy wheat wraps, homemade salads, chicken strips that absolutely melt in your mouth, 16 awesome appetizers, and their signature deep fried Ice Cream and Snickers Bars! Every Monday is “Texas Hold’em” from 6–10p.m. Tuesday night is “Family Night” from 4–8p.m. when kids 12-and-under eat free. Wednesday night is “Trivia Night” when the fun starts at 6:30p.m. with prizes given to the top 3 teams. Thursday night is “Karaoke Night” where everyone is a star! Every Saturday watch your favorite college team while enjoying $1.50 select draft beers and appetizer specials all day and night. On Sundays they offer “The Sunday NFL Ticket,” catch any game… any time! Cousin Vinnie’s also offers, free Wi-Fi, great music, and an enthusiastic staff ready to exceed your expectations. Vinnie’s has been open for seven years, if you have never been there… it is absolutely time for you to check it out!

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I LOVE TO EAT THERE! “I love Copacabana Cuban Café in Mount Dora because it serves authentic home-style Cuban cuisine. All the dishes are flavorful and fresh, but I particularly like the chicken and rice. The service is outstanding.”

“I love Red Wing in Groveland. You won’t find better fish anywhere. They have fish specials on swordfish, mahi mahi, snapper, and grouper. The restaurant also has a nice casual atmosphere that isn’t stuffy.”

“As a runner, and someone who is very intentional about healthy food choices, I love, love Troy’s Cuban Restaurant in Clermont. Fresh, fast, and all-natural ingredients. My favorite is chick peas, white beans, and Turkey Picadillio. If you are an athlete, or want to eat like one, Troy’s is the place to be and the place to see the “who’s who” amongst visiting athletes — often you will see everyone from local Olympians, to visiting Olympians and professional athletes — pretty cool place to eat!”

— KELDA SENIOR, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER FOR THE CITY OF MOUNT DORA.

— SHERI OLSON, DIRECTOR, SOUTH LAKE HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

— SHANNON HIDALGO, CHAIR OF THE SOUTH LAKE CHAMBER SPORTS AND TOURISM COMMITTEE

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

THE GOBLIN MARKET RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 331-B DONNELLY STREET (REAR ALLEY), MOUNT DORA 352.735.0059 // WWW.GOBLINMARKETRESTAURANT.COM Nestled on a back alley in downtown Mount Dora, the Goblin Market Restaurant has been charming locals and tourists alike since 1996. The restaurant, housed in a renovated warehouse, features three intimate, book-lined dining rooms and a full-service lounge furnished in soothing, muted tones with tasteful modern art. The private, tree-shaded courtyard and garden patio are open year-round for al fresco dining. Low lighting and “new age” music add the finishing touches to the restaurant’s casual elegance. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski embrace a simple philosophy of offering the highest-quality products, served in a unique and romantic atmosphere by a personable and attentive staff. The Goblin Market’s wine list and menu represent a refreshing mix of ideas from its culinary team. The diversified origins and background of each member ensure exciting menu offerings and nightly selections. HOURS OF OPERATION: LUNCH: TUESDAY–SATURDAY 11A.M.–3:00P.M. DINNER: TUESDAY–THURSDAY 5–9P.M., FRIDAY–SATURDAY 5–10P.M., SUNDAY 11A.M.–3:30P.M.

JOIN US FOR OUR NEW “LIGHTER FARE” DINNER MENU, GOURMET SOUPS, SALADS, AND SANDWICHES. TUESDAY– THURSDAY FROM 3–9P.M. (REGULAR DINNER MENU ALSO AVAILABLE).

SUBWAY WWW.SUBWAY.COM Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food. LADY LAKE // 208 W. Guava St. // 352.750.4929 EUSTIS // 469 Plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 MOUNT DORA // 18870 U.S. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 LEESBURG // 2013 Citrus Blvd. // 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. Hwy. 441, Suite 4 // 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27, Suite 4 // 352.314.8847 THE VILLAGES // 1580 Bella Cruz Drive // 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane // 352.750.9991 1070 Lake Sumter Landing Drive // 352.205.8535 349 Colony Blvd. // 352.391.1657 WILDWOOD // 480 W. Gulf to Alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800 HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY–SATURDAY SUNDAY

10A.M.–10P.M. 10A.M.–9P.M.

WORLD OF BEER 994 ALVEREZ, THE VILLAGES // 352.633.4787 // WWW.WORLDOFBEER/LOCATIONS/SPANISHSPRINGS 2751 WEST TORCH LAKE DRIVE, THE VILLAGES // 352.633.9519 // WWW.WORLDOFBEER/LOCATIONS/THEVILLAGES The staff is warm and the beer is cold at World of Beer, a venue where Villages residents soak up suds while enjoying friendship and fun. This exciting venue offers more than 500 craft beers from breweries around the world and 50 rotating beers on tap. There is also an infusion tower that combines beer with a variety of different flavorings such as fruit, hops, or coffee beans. Regulars may want to sign up for the Loyalty Club which rewards them with discounts and prizes when they reach milestones. Since beer tends to stimulate the appetite, there are plenty of tasty food items including burgers, flatbreads, salads, and shrimp tacos. People also flock to the Spanish Springs location for the popular brunch (appropriately named BEERunch) to enjoy items such as blueberry wheat French toast and the chicken and waffle sandwich. HOURS OF OPERATION SPANISH SPRINGS LOCATION MONDAY – THURSDAY: 11 A.M. TO MIDNIGHT FRIDAY: 11 A.M. TO 2 A.M. SATURDAY: 10 A.M. TO 2 A.M. SUNDAY: 10 A.M. TO MIDNIGHT

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THE VILLAGES

Amelia’s Restaurant at the Waterfront Inn Lake Sumter Landing, 1105 Lake Shore Dr., The Villages

Harbor Lights Restaurant & Lounge 907 CR 439B, Lake Panasoffkee

On the short of beautiful Lake Panasoffkee, serving a buffet with everything from succulent roast beef to shrimp and tilapia. Open Thursday-Sunday only, but open for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

A Key West inspired infusion of fresh ingredients and tropical flavors in a menu offering dishes like lobster quesadillas, crab bisque, pineapple teriyaki burgers , Garlic Butter Haddock and warm chocolate chip banana bread pudding.

City Fire American Oven and Bar Paddock Square, 2716 Brownwood Blvd., The Villages Lake Sumter Landing, 1018 Canal St., The Villages

Uniquely American dining, with entrees that include filet, salmon, shrimp, and other enticing dishes like bacon-wrapped meatloaf. Open very late, nightly.

The Corkscrew Winery 1171 Main St, The Villages

A unique place to enjoy a night with friends and live music…and make your own beer or wine. You select ingredients to make wine to your taste, go back when it’s ready to bottle and label it, and let it age until it’s time to drink and enjoy. They also do classes in making in your own with a similar process. Cheese trays and other delicacies available for enjoying with wine or beer.

Polly’s Pantry Royal Tea Room

819 S. Main Street, Wildwood

Polly’s Pantry is designed around the owner’s book, “Polly Brown,” and serves lunches, snacks, teas, and coffees. Special afternoon teas by appointment. LAKE PANASOFFKEE

Catfish Johnny’s Restaurant 2396 N CR 470, Lake Panasoffkee

American cuisine, with emphasis

I LOVE TO EAT THERE! “Jdance Smokehouse has become my new favorite.” — JEROME GUIONS, OWNER, LANDSCAPING BY JEROME.

“My favorite restaurant is The Crooked Spoon because of the unusual yet tasty items on the menu. My family and I dine there several times a month, and my favorite item is the cocoa burger.” — SEAN PARKS, LAKE COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2

“Hands down my favorite place is Cheeser’s Palace in downtown Clermont. It has the most AMAZING Tomato Basil soup! I will drive across town to have her soup because no one else’s compares. Even my 11-year-old son, Maverick, loves it … he says, “They must be really famous because of their soup!” — KALENA MEYERS, MONTVERDE ACADEMY, DEAN OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

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“Mason Jar in Umatilla. To find the very best comfort foods you just have to head to the Mason Jar. If you were raised in the South, their menu is as familiar as a pine forest and the smell of citrus blossoms.” — GARY MCKECHNIE, OWNER, COCONUT COTTAGE INN BED & BREAKFAST

HUSBAND AND WIFE

Rev. Dr. Leon F. Bloder SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH HURCH OF EUSTIS

Merideth C. Nagel, Esq. OWNER, MERIDETH NAGEL, EL, P.A.

Leon is the Pastor of First st Presbyterian Church of Eustis, a growingg and outwardfocused congregation that prides rides itself on “Church done differently.” The ministry places an emphasis on knowing and d showing Jesus to the world. Merideth, his wife, is the owner of a growing law practice in Clermont, mont, with five attorneys and 16 staff. Both Leon and Merideth feel a strong connection to thee Lake County communities where they serve, e, which has led to some interesting partnerships between Leon’s church and Merideth’s firm. The first Friday of every month, onth, Merideth leads the staff and attorneys of Merideth Nagel, PA, from their offices in Clermont ont and Bushnell to Eustis where they serve roughly hly 200 meals as part of Center Street Kitchen:: the community meal program at Leon’s church. In turn, Leon lends the communication skills he has honed as a pastor to assist Merideth with th her marketing and community outreach ach efforts. On every level, they form a loving ving partnership focused on service.

“We love Lake because

it’s the place where most of the biggest and best moments of our lives happened. As our family and lives have grown and expanded, so has the Lake County community—it’s home.”

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.co .c .com co com c om om

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SALUTÉ

THE LAKE & SUMTER WINE TRAIL Lake and Sumter Counties do not have an “official” wine trail…yet… but the idea isn’t so far-fetched. After all, this area now has four interesting wineries that attract tourists and locals alike. It’s just a matter of time before someone figures out the next step is a shuttle bus to get from one winery to another. In the meantime, get a designated driver and spend a day exploring the local wine scene. You will find fun entertainment, beautiful tasting rooms, interesting “cellar” tours, and a wine for every palate. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: TONY DESANTIS ILLUSTRATION: JOSH CLARK

LAKERIDGE WINERY & VINEYARDS 19239 U.S. 27 NORTH, CLERMONT LAKERIDGEWINERY.COM

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyard has become one of Trip Advisor’s top-rated attractions in Lake County and is visited by 160,000 people annually. Established in 1989, Lakeridge is the granddaddy of all of Florida wineries with its state-of-the-art production facility and large tasting room. Lakeridge Winery offers complimentary winery tours and tastings seven days a week until 5 p.m. The tours are as thorough and informative about the wine production process as many in Napa or Sonoma. When the tour is over, you’ll taste award-winning premium wines made with Florida’s native grape varieties, all grown at the 127-acre estate in Clermont and on Lakeridge’s 450 acres in the Panhandle. Its 11 varieties of wines have won more than 600 awards for excellence in winemaking and are sold in wine shops throughout Florida. In addition, if you are not a wine drinker —or you’re the designated driver —there’s still a lot to do and see at Lakeridge Winery, especially during one of its many festivals that benefit local charities.

celebration, he served his handcrafted blueberry wines to more than 7,000 people. Since then, an estimated 40-to50,000 people have stopped by to enjoy the winery and he’s sold almost 21,000 bottles in 14 locations throughout Florida. He also added the title “award-winner” to several wines that brought home medals from a number of prestigious wine competitions. During the free tours, visitors can see state-of-the-art equipment from Italy used to make five different flavors of blueberry wines, ranging from sweet to dry. The tasting room and visitor’s center is as nice as those in world-famous wine regions. Formerly an old horse barn, the visitors’ center contains artistically decorated wine tasting rooms, a bar, and gift-shop area. Outside the newly added outdoor patio is hopping on weekends with entertainment and, of course, wine tastings.

WHISPERING OAKS WINERY 10934 N. COUNTY ROAD 475, OXFORD WINESOFFLORIDA.COM

Anyone coming into Lake County via U.S. Hwy 27 can’t miss the French-looking chateau on picturesque hills near Clermont. In fact,

Last November, Johannes Vanderwey and his wife, Panpailin, opened Whispering Oaks Winery on County Road 475 in Oxford amid 40,000 blueberry bushes thatVANDERWEY he’d planted six years JOHANNES earlier. During a 3-day grand opening JOHANNES VANDERWEY October 20 15

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WE’VE POURED OUR HEART AND SOUL INTO THIS PLACE. WE WANT PEOPLE TO COME OUT AND ENJOY IT. — JOE WINIARSKI

JOE & MELISSA WINIARSKI

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BACKYARD BARN WINERY AND MICROBREWERY 1945 EAST COUNTY ROAD 462, WILDWOOD BACKYARDBARNWINERY.COM

Joe and Melissa Winiarski are the new kids on the winery block, having just opened Backyard Barn Winery and Microbrewery —literally in their backyard—in August. They’ve owned the property since 2002 and broke ground for the tasting room on Thanksgiving Day two years ago, but getting licenses took time. The farm-based small-batch winery and microbrewery is a laidback environment where Winiarski hopes everyone will feel like they are at “Cheers,” the bar made famous in a 1980s sitcom. Backyard Barn Winery makes 27 varieties of wine, including “Mead”—a rare and delicious honey wine that originated in medieval times, and ever-increasing number of craft beers. In addition, they grow six varieties of hops and have partnered with the University of Florida to research the best growing techniques in warm climates. Backyard Barn is one of the few establishments in Florida to hold a dual license for a winery and a microbrewery. The couple has created a tranquil setting—complete with two pairs of black and white swans. Visitors can gather around outdoor fire pits or inside the tasting room at a bar from an 1875 Virginia farmhouse. “We’ve poured our heart and soul into this place,” said Joe. “We want people to come out and enjoy it.”

JOE & KELLI CARVALHO

CORKSCREW WINERY 1171 MAIN ST. (SPANISH SPRINGS), THE VILLAGES THECORKSCREWWINERY.COM

Wrap up your Lake and Sumter wine tour at Corkscrew Winery at Spanish Springs in The Villages, where most evenings you’ll find great entertainment and where you can try your hand at making your own wine. Owner Joe Carvalho has seen firsthand the popularity of winemaking at both of his Corkscrew Winery locations. Last year, he and his wife, Kelli, opened the Spanish Springs location in a storefront shop that resembles a rustic Italian winery. “We had so many people coming from The Villages to our Ocala location that we decided to open a winery here,” Carvalho said. “Our purpose is to educate people about craft wine and beer. We don’t want anyone to

feel intimidated when it comes to making their own.” Corkscrew Winery also serves wines on tap that Carvalho makes. He anticipated his first batches for the new location would last years, but within months they were gone. And surprisingly, his most popular wine isn’t made with grapes, but rather green apples. The tart Green Apple Riesling sells out quickly.

ABOUT THE WRITER Living in Italy was the catalyst for Mary Ann DeSantis to understand more about wine, and she now enjoys sharing what she’s learned. Since 2010, Saluté has covered topics for oenophiles of all levels — from novice wine drinkers to experienced connoisseurs. The column received a 2014 Florida Magazine Association Silver Award for Best Department and a 2012 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Award for Commentary.

October 20 15

OYSTER PERPETUAL GMT-MASTER II

GAUSE AND SON JEWELERS:

CELEBRATING 65 YEARS! The story of Gause and Son Jewelers is a great business success. For 65 years, the beautiful store on the square in Downtown Ocala presents a unique and quality business. Well known in the jewelry industry, the Gause family has generations of family members. In 1950, Jerry F. Gause’s parents began a unique customer-friendly jewelry store. Now, 65 years later, it continues to sell the finest watches and diamonds in the world. Gause and Son Jewelers is one of the oldest Rolex dealers in the state of Florida, selling many watches through the years, which is a statement in itself. A great timepiece, Rolex is one of the best gifts for college graduation, anniversary, and wedding. Which is exactly what Mr. Gause gave his wife, Teddie, on their wedding day—a beautiful 18K yellow gold Rolex, something she cherishes to this day. They have won many national awards, including induction into the Jewelers Hall of Fame in New York for outstanding jeweler in the United States. One award Jerry F. Gause is most proud of is the Morris B. Zale Award from Dallas, Texas, for outstanding customer service. Gause and Son Jewelers is also known in Ocala and Central Florida for being voted “Best of the Best” jeweler by the community. Charities are significant for the Gause family. “Giving back in the community is so important to all of

us,” said Teddie Gause. “We have sponsored the Golden Apple Award for teachers for over 25 years, custom-making the 14K Golden Apple pin, with the ‘Teacher of the Year’ getting one with a diamond. “We are so proud of our sales associates; they work hard to create their own customer base, making their customers feel special,” Teddie continued. “Many have made it their lifelong careers and enjoy selling beautiful things for special occasions!” Celebrating their 65th anniversary this year will be a special event. The highlight of the night will be the drawing of a beautiful Rolex watch with proceeds going to the Ocala Humane Society. Teddie and Jerry Gause are passing the torch to their daughter, Cammie McLeod. Indeed, she will continue to carry on the legacy of a fine specialized family business with Master Jewelers, Master Rolex Watchmakers and Gemologists on staff. “Diamonds add sparkle to all our lives, so we invite you to come in for a great Gause and Son Jewelers shopping experience,” said Teddie. “Looking forward to seeing you!” ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

GAUSE AND SON JEWELERS 14 SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471 352.732.8844 gauseandsonjewelers.com

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

JERRY AND TEDDIE GAUSE

237 West 4th Ave. Suite 2 * Mount Dora, FL 32757 * 352-383-3600 We are located in the Arbors & Eyebrows complex at the corner of Alexander and 4th Ave. in Historic Downtown Mount Dora. Open 7 days a week

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*Gift cards available *WWW.KaDeeKay.com

VE 0% SA O 3 T P

Give your boss a fresh gift for Boss’s Week.

WE’RE TOOJAY’S A classic, New York Style deli with recipes that made it from the Lower East Side of Manhattan to Brownwood Paddock Square. Our menu features the deli favorites your family has loved for generations.

Boss’s Day is October 16

WE’RE CELEBRATING Our Brownwood Paddock Square Opening Come join us! You look hungry!

3509 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162 in the Southern Trace Plaza 352.391.1334

BROWNWOOD PADDOCK SQUARE (352) 350-2122

Village of Spanish Springs (352) 753-3510 Lake Sumter Landing (352) 430-0410 • www.toojays.com

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good nutrition makes healthy families

WIC provides the following at no cost: Healthy foods, nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding support and referrals to health care, immunizations, and community services.

Call WIC today! Wo m e n | I n f a n t s | C h i l d r e n

English: 352.771.5559 // Spanish: 352.394.3464 ext. 3002 USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer

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HEALTHCARE

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One of the main concerns when selecting a new community to live in is quality of medical care. It is thus reassuring to know that the hospitals, physicians, treatments and programs in Lake County are among the best in the nation. In fact, each of Lake County’s four hospitals have recently received some of the medical profession’s highest praises. Some also offer new services and programs. Others are expanding their facilities in order to meet the growing needs of the community, while also continuing its progression of an even higher level of care and service. Here is the complete list of Lake County hospitals and their exceptional specialties, as well as a list of notable specialists and urgent care providers in the area. Everything you need to know so that you may rest assured, your care is in proper hands.

FLORIDA HOSPITAL WATERMAN

Florida Hospital Waterman 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares 352.253.3333 fhwat.org

Servicing the Lake County area for 77 years, this 269-bed, full-service community hospital is best known

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for its Cancer Institute, which received a three-year accreditation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons in January 2015. Florida Hospital Waterman recently was named the first recipient in Lake County to have a Chest Pain Center with PCI accreditation through the Society of

MENTAL WELLNESS Mental illness and substance abuse are serious health problems affecting our entire nation, including our community. LifeStream Behavioral Center, a dynamic social services facility, provides the region’s best comprehensive inpatient, outpatient, residential and community-based behavioral health care, child welfare, and children’s early intervention programs. To fulfill their mission of “Supporting Recovery, Promoting Health and Creating Hope,” LifeStream has a variety of services in several locations throughout Lake and Sumter Counties. For more information, visit LSBC.net.

STORY: John Sotomayor

LAKE COUNTY OFFERS THE LATEST AND GREATEST IN MEDICAL SPECIALTY SUPREMACY, SO ALL OF YOUR HEALTH CARE NEEDS ARE MET RIGHT HERE, CLOSE TO HOME.

CITY G U I DE

The Villages Regional Hospital 1451 El Camino Real, The Villages 352.753.6900 cfhalliance.org

LEESBURG REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Cardiovascular Patient Care, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the reduction of the mortality rate of heart attack patients. Florida Hospital Waterman is the only hospital in Lake County to be accredited, meaning they are meeting their center criteria established for best practices for heart attack treatment. In addition, Florida Hospital Waterman is the only hospital in Central Florida honored by The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program for meritorious outcomes for surgical patient care. The MAKOplasty robotic partial knee resurfacing, offered at the Joint Replacement Center is of particular note. The specialized implant offers a revolutionary FDA-approved method of total knee replacement, which retains all of the original ligaments – the best option for long-lasting pain relief. THE VILLAGES REGIONAL HOSPITAL These national honors and specialties show why Florida Hospital Waterman is among the best in the nation. Its top-notch staff of 280 physicians and 15,000 employees treat more than 14,000 inpatients and 60,000 through its Emergency Department annually.

Leesburg Regional Medical Center 600 E. Dixie Ave., Leesburg 352.323.5762 cfhalliance.org

One of two hospitals affiliated with the Central Florida Health Alliance, Leesburg Regional Medical Center has serviced the greater Central Florida community for more than 50 years. Today, LRMC continues to set the benchmark for clinical quality and personalized health care services. In the past, LRMC received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for health care quality and safety in hospitals. It is also recognized by the Commission as a Primary Stroke Center, the first in the region. It also has the first Neurosurgery Center in the region. In 2014, LRMC was honored by Healthgrades with the Patient Safety Excellence Award and Becker’s Hospital Review named LRMC among the Top 100 Hospitals with Great Women’s Health Programs. Expansion has created space for more services and programs and ensured the hospital offers the latest surgical and diagnostic technology attainable. LRMC recently opened the new Urgent Care Center on the hospital grounds.

For the past 13 years, The Villages Regional Hospital, the second hospital affiliated with the Central Florida Health Alliance, has produced extensive health care, and specialized services for the local area. In order to satisfy the increasing requirements of the population while ensuring an even higher quantity and quality of service and care, TVRH is in the middle of a $50 million expansion. The new 173,000 square foot, five-story North Tower, completed earlier this year, will house supplementary inpatient and surgical beds as well as a contemporary intensive care unit. A second phase of expansion is scheduled for completion this fall, which will extend the size of the hospital’s emergency department, while adding operating and treatment rooms. The extension will provide TVRH the capability to better serve patients through enhanced access to health care with a total capacity of 323 acutehospital beds. In 2014, TVRH received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for health care quality and safety in hospitals. It was recognized by Modern Healthcare as the fastest growing hospital in the nation in 2012. Services include emergency, interventional cardiology, neurosurgery, premier orthopedic care, and the internationally acclaimed Moffitt Cancer Center within the new wing of the Sharon Morse Building.

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URGENT CARE LOCATIONS PARAMOUNT URGENT CARE 805 E. County Road 486 Lady Lake 352.674.9218

DID YOU KNOW? We Care of Lake County,

South Lake Hospital 1900 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont 352.394.4071 southlakehospital.org

South Lake Hospital is committed to what they call, “the full continuum of care.” Every stage of someone’s life and health are met with a series of patientcentered programs that provides peace of mind from diagnosis to recovery. The facilities, leadingedge treatments and procedures, and highly skilled staff make South Lake Hospital a remarkable health care institution. South Lake Hospital offers their own specialized robotic microsurgery, utilizing the cutting-edge Da Vinci Surgical System, an effective robotic, minimally invasive alternative to open surgery and laparoscopy, in what they call the PUR Clinic, for urology. It is one of the best robotic microsurgery programs for male infertility and chronic groin and testicular pain. Specialties at the hospital include The Center for Women’s Health, which provides complete

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CLERMONT CENTRA CARE 15701 State Hwy. 50 Suite 101 Clermont 352.394.7757

THE DOC’S IN 210 North Hwy. 27 Suite 4 Clermont, FL 352.243.4800

the philanthropic arm care from maternity to maturity; and the LiveWell Fitness Center and the National Training Center, for total body fitness, as well as advanced rehabilitative and athletic services, ranging from the beginner to world-class triathletes and Olympic athletes. South Lake Hospital’s unique program is the Wound Care Center, which specializes in the treatment of problem wounds associated with diabetes, venous insufficiency, trauma and more. The center features state-of-theart hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), where patients breathe 100 percent oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. HBOT rapidly transports high concentrations of oxygen to the bloodstream and aids in the healing process of the wounds. It is also highly successful in fighting certain types of infections, stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, and improves circulation. HBOT is also used to treat crush injuries, osteomyelitis, skin grafts and flaps, and diabetic wounds to the lower extremity.

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of the Lake County Medical Society, launched a new medical

LAKE REGIONAL URGENT CARE 550 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 352.323.2273

equipment reclamation program—We Share. The program accepts donations of major

MOUNT DORA CENTRA CARE 19015 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora, FL 352.383.3484

medical equipment, and then makes it available to anyone in need. The program

EXPRESS CARE OF LEESBURG 2500 Citrus Blvd. Leesburg, FL 352.728.5335

begins in September. LAKE REGIONAL URGENT CARE 8404 U.S. Hwy. 441 Leesburg, FL 352.315.8881

EXCEPTIONAL URGENT CARE CENTER Dana Center, 11950 County Road 101 The Villages, FL 352.391.5200

WELCOME

OPTICAL TO THE

REVOLUTION Featuring TRAILBLAZING TECHNOLOGIES FROM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS AND INNOVATION CAN COME AT SUCH A BREAKNECK PACE. Who can keep up with it all? You might know the black and gold F&F logo above the bull and bear statue as you drive by Lake Sumter Landing. Though it stands for Fross & Fross, it really stands for much more.

When it comes to the latest technologies designed to detect and protect against disease and improve vision, the professionals at Lake Eye Associates not only “keep up,” they lead the way. With vigilant education, investigation and implementation of the latest surgical and procedural advances, our doctors provide the most comprehensive and progressive vision care. Since the practice’s inception in 1977 Lake Eye is renowned not only locally but throughout Florida as a pioneering force in the examination and implementation of next-generation treatments designed to safeguard and improve vision in people of every age and at every stage in life.

OUR PHILOSOPHY “We’re so much more than doctors who dispense eyeglass prescriptions,” says Board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeon Dr. Scott Wehrly. “We’re constantly reviewing new technologies, procedures and protocols, and helping to develop innovative methods to treat patients that are safer, faster and more effective than what’s been used in the past. Today’s medical advances come at a faster rate now than they did years ago, and every new optical innovation is exciting and demands our thorough scrutiny. Then, if it passes muster with our team of ophthalmologists, we’re eager to share it with our patients who may benefit from it.”

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Diopsys® Vision Testing ne such breakthrough is a revolutionary new way to provide vision testing that examines more than just how well you see numbers and letters on a chart — it actually measures your complete visual pathway, from the lens of the eye all the way to the visual cortex located at the base of the brain, to determine if there are mechanical or neural abnormalities that might affect one’s vision. Lake Eye is the first practice in the area to offer this safe, non-invasive vision test. “What’s amazing about the Diopsys® NOVA vision test is two-fold,” says Board-certified Dr. Scot Holman. “First it measures the electrical activity of your vision system, starting at the retina and traveling through the optic nerve to the visual cortex, the site that interprets what your eyes see. This part of the test, called the Visual Evoked Potential, or VEP, actually tells us how well your eyes and brain are communicating. The second part, called Pattern Electroretinography, or ERG, measures how well the retina is converting electrical impulses through the optic nerve to the brain. It’s amazing.” These two tests, which are performed simultaneously, provide extensive information that can assist Lake Eye doctors in diagnosing and planning treatment for a variety of vision disorders, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and problems caused by brain injury or disease. With diseases like glaucoma, studies show that early treatment can preserve vision, and the Diopsys® system can detect optic nerve damage from glaucoma eight years sooner than current traditional testing, making it an invaluable tool in arresting and preventing vision loss. “By using various visual stimuli to produce electrical responses in the brain,” says Dr. Wehrly, “this system can measure a patient’s complete visual pathway to capture abnormalities or shortfalls that were previously difficult, and sometimes even impossible to diagnose.” Patients will be gratified to note that the Di-

opsys® NOVA vision test is completely painless and easy to prepare for. Both the VEP and ERG tests are performed at once, using sensory pads placed by a trained Lake Eye technician in the appropriate spots on the head or face. The patient simply views a series of black and white patterns on a computer screen while the sensory pads record the speed and fluidity of the patient’s visual pathway and records the data on a computer for review by their Lake Eye doctor. “The test can vary in time from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on what tests are deemed appropriate,” says Dr. Holman. “While the test isn’t necessary for most patients, it is a boon in diagnosing and treating specific disorders. We’re proud to be the first local ophthalmological practice to offer it.”

Scot C. Holman, MD

SSP SPECIAL PPEEECI CIAALL ADV CI AADVERTISING DVV EERT ERRT RTIS I SI ISI S I NG SING N G FE FFEATURE EAT ATTUURE ATU RE

“While Diopsys® NOVA isn’t necessary for most patients, it is a boon in diagnosing and treating specific disorders. We’re proud to be the first local ophthalmological practice to offer it.” — Dr. Holman

Vinay Gutti, MD

ORA™ System with VerifEye+™ Technology

Semi-Dropless Cataract Surgery

his system isn’t the only way in which Lake Eye is a local forerunner in eye and vision care. The practice’s eye surgeons have embraced the new ORA™ system with VerifEye+™ technology, a system that provides continuous real-time assessment of the eye during surgery, measuring a lens’s power, cylindrical magnitude and axis, and assisting the surgeon in the selection of the right intraocular lens, or IOL, to replace a natural lens clouded by a cataract. Lake Eye uses only the most advanced and proven IOLs on the market, including Toric® lenses to correct both cataracts and astigmatism, TECNIS® multifocal intraocular lenses, and ReSTOR® multifocal implants. “The ORA™ system helps to ensure superior selection and placement of the IOL, offering an extra measure of security and accuracy,” says Board-certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Dr. Vinay Gutti. “And when it comes to a patient’s vision, every little bit can make a big difference in terms of everlasting satisfaction.” The system is also highly effective at measuring astigmatism, a defect in the spherical curvature of the eye, which can distort light and cause blurred or distorted vision, eye strain, and even headaches. The ORA™ system is so effective at accurately calculating cylinder power and axis that it has reduced the number of patients falling outside the post-op astigmatic target by nearly 54%. “Simply put, the astigmatic target is the where we expect a particular patient’s astigmatism to be after surgery,” says Dr. Gutti. “Prior to using the ORA™ system, about one in four patients might fall outside the target. Using ORA™, we can expect nearly nine out of ten patients to achieve their target. That’s a significant improvement.”

nother surgical improvement Lake Eye’s surgeons applaud and utilize is semi-dropless cataract surgery, popularly called dropless cataract surgery. “We don’t call it dropless because most patients still use some drops after surgery, but the advantage is that they only use a small fraction of the drops that we used to use,” says Dr. Wehrly. If you’ve ever had or known someone who has had cataract surgery, then you know how expensive and inconvenient drop applications can be. If you haven’t, the general patient experience involves applying prescription antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops to the cataract-affected eye(s) up to four times a day for a month or more. Patients may frequently forget therefore creating potential problems and sometimes extending the need for drop therapy. “With the semi-dropless procedure, I place an advanced, multi-targeted medicine in the eye at the time of surgery. The antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agents are slow-release, so they continue to be effective over the next month, eliminating or greatly reducing the need for the patient to place drops in their own eyes as they heal.” Not only does this simplify healing and a patient’s post-op care, it reduces the risk of infection, eye-drop side effects and overall cost. “It’s safer, cheaper, and more convenient for patients,” enthuses Dr. Wehrly. “What’s not to love?”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Scott R. Wehrly, MD

Sublingual Allergy Drop Therapy peaking of love, it says a lot about how much a doctor values his patients when he specializes in something not typically associated with his field simply because it holds the promise of improving patients’ lives. Such is the case with Dr. Mark Vocci, a Board-certified ophthalmologist who underwent additional training in sublingual allergy drop therapy. “A number of my patients were complaining of sinus congestion and red, itchy, watery eyes due to airborne allergies. Rather than send them to another doctor, I felt it was in their best interests to be able to get relief from me. In my research I found a way to not only treat patients patients’ airborne allergy symptoms, but to actually ally provide a safe, natural, long-term or possibly ssibly permanent relief without painful allergyy shots.” You read that right: possible permanentt relief for airborne allergies. Allergy immunotherapy drops work using sing the same premise as traditional allergy shots: after determining which pollens, dusts, insects, etc. are triggering an allergic response; small amounts of these specific antigens are introduced into the body until it no longer reacts acts to them. As with shots, allergy drop therapy erapy is safe, natural and drug-free. Unlike painful ainful shots, however, allergy drops are taken under the tongue daily from the convenience of home. No weekly or bi-weekly trips to the doctor’s tor’s office for uncomfortable shots and frequent uent co-pays. “Relief comes from the body itself self as the immune system adapts to the allergens,” gens,” hey notice says Dr. Vocci. “Patients typically say they a real improvement after three to four months.” ergies The recommended term to vanquish allergies me most altogether is four years, after which time patients report a complete cessation of their ci, “The treated allergy symptoms. Says Dr. Vocci, testing is done in the office and results are given the same day. I then provide them with a perts only sonalized treatment plan — and patients ring every need to come in and see me for monitoring tion to three months, so it’s convenient in addition being effective.”

Mark J. Vocci, MD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

“I found a way to not only treat patients’ airborne allergy symptoms, but to actually provide a safe, natural, long-term or possibly permanent relief.” — Dr. Vocci

Shelby L. Terpstra, DO

Eyelid Surgeries

FOR MORE INFORMATION BEFORE

n addition to helping people see and feel better, Lake Eye’s doctors are also dedicated to helping people look healthy, happy and rejuvenated. In addition to her other services, Board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist Shelby Terpstra, DO specializes in blepharoplasty, an eyelid surgery that can improve both vision and overall appearance. Common complaints among patients, especially as they get older, are sagging upper lids, fatty deposits that create a puffy look, and drooping of the lower lids. All of these symptoms can cause discomfort, impair vision, invite infection and, at very least, cause people to look more tired, aged or more moody than they feel. Eyelid surgery needed to improve vision is covered by most insurance plans. Dr. Terpstra has performed several hundreds of blepharoplasty surgeries, correcting eyelid drooping, sagging and bulging, and improving vision and cosmetic vitality to a wealth of satisfied patients. “It’s very rewarding to see how delighted patients are after surgery,” says Dr. Terpstra, “not only in terms of having an improved field of vision, but also by how much more rested and energetic they look. Seeing a revitalized image reflected in the mirror tends to improve a person’s confidence and energy. It can be a huge morale booster.”

AFTER

Board-certified ophthalmologist: MARK J. VOCCI, MD SCOTT R. WEHRLY, MD SHELBY L. TERPSTRA, DO SCOT C. HOLMAN, MD VINAY GUTTI, MD For most people, blepharoplasty is an outpatient surgery. Healing may include some swelling, bruising or eye irritation but discomfort is usually brief and manageable with oral and/or topical medication and cold compresses. “Modern technology and our own state-ofthe-art practices make blepharoplasty a quick and very safe procedure,” says Dr. Terpstra. “It is a lasting way to improve both vision and one’s quality of life.” As if all these technological advances weren’t enough, Lake Eye also caters to the basics, providing everything from routine eye and vision exams to an on-site optical department. Lake Eye’s Precision Optics features licensed opticians and a huge selection of fashion frames, specialty lenses and contact lenses at each and every Lake Eye office. “We make it easy to get everything you need in one place, at a location near you,” says Dr. Vocci. “When it comes to your eyes, convenience is a crucial part of exceptional care.”.

W E L C O ME

OPTI CAL TO THE

R EV O L U T I O N SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TAVARES / LEESBURG LADY LAKE / THE VILLAGES www.LakeEye.com Accepting new patients!

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Jack Cahill, owner of Jack’s Solar, was consulted for his expertise on solar energy and panels for a feature article on the topic within the premier issue of “Lake Business Magazine.” The article is reprinted here as seen in that issue.

SOLAR ON SALE

Converting to solar costs less than you think. Now is the time to act.

In business, timing is everything. And the time is now for business owners who have been toying with the idea of converting to solar energy. Solar costs are down while fossil fuel costs are up, federal tax credit incentives are keeping the cost of initial installation down, and solar equipment made in the USA is built to last longer. Sun power has never been more attractive. Conversion to solar energy will decrease your energy costs over the long haul while minimizing your carbon footprint. And you won’t have to break the bank if you take advantage of incentives that encourage convergence.

Solar or Fossil Fuel, Which Costs Less? According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, solar project costs have dropped 45 percent since 2012 (primarily due to technology innovations and new inventions). Meanwhile, electricity is costing more. The U.S. Energy Information Administration states that the average American retail electricity prices rose from 7.61 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in 2004 to 10.52 cents per kWh in September 2014. Local solar energy businessman Jack Cahill confirms those assertions. “What most businesses look for is to cut down on the rapid price increase of electricity, which has gone up 40 percent in the past 10 years,” said Cahill, owner of Jack’s Solar, a solar energy equipment supplier in Umatilla.

“That will not decrease anytime soon. In 10 years, it will be even more expensive.”

Federal Slice and Dice The Initial Cost You can knock 30 percent right off the top thanks to a federal tax credit established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005. But don’t drag your feet. According to Energy.gov, the system must be in service before December 31, 2016. After Jan. 1, 2017, the tax credit falls to 10 percent. The time to act is now. That 30 percent credit translates into a significant reduction in the initial cost of installation for business owners. “Depending on the project, the cost is $3 to $3.50 per watt. To install for 5,000 watts of power will cost $15,000,” said Cahill. “Thirty percent, or $4,500, is deducted by federal tax credit, leaving initial installation cost of $10,500 for the first year only.” And the tax credit isn’t the only cost break you’ll get. Solar energy depreciates rapidly, at a rate of five to six years for tax purposes. “They can depreciate an entire system in one year. When you get down to it, it is like you are getting it for nothing, given the tax breaks,” said Cahill.

Panel Prices Plummet According to a new report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the price of solar panels dropped by 19 percent nationwide in 2013. And prices are expected to drop another 12 percent in 2014

according to bizjournals.com. And the bigger the job, the bigger the savings. The price of solar panels fell below $2 per watt in 2013 on utility-scale projects, and then fell to $1.80 per watt in 2014 – a whopping 59 percent plunge from 2010. Of course, cost varies from market to market, and from dealer to dealer. Cahill acquires his solar equipment from Solar World, an American company. Cahill feels that solar products from China or Mexico are not made to last as long.

Total Effect All things considered, $25,000 is the average cost for a homeowner or small business owner in Florida to convert to solar. In Florida, the monthly savings of converting to solar is $139 per month. With the federal tax incentives in place, the average Floridian would save $30,000 - $39,000 over the course of 20 years.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

Cahill breaks down the savings with another basic example. “Let’s say they had a $200 per month electric bill – that’s $2,400 they will not spend this year. The average return is five to seven years, depending on the consumer. In that time, you have 100-percent return on your money. Then you have essentially free electricity, so long as you are in that business location.” Put another way, Cahill asked rhetorically, “Would you invest $10,000 into CDs whereby you will get all your money back in five years, followed by a return of $200 per month for life?” Of course you would. It is a no-brainer. ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

JACK’S SOLAR 37331 Oak Lane, Umatilla 352.267.4903 jacksolar.com License # CVC56714

CITY G U I DE

Whether it is a dream wedding, a long-overdue family reunion, a benefit for a worthy cause, or any number of things for which you might need a venue, the spot you choose to do your hosting sets the tone for your event. Fortunate for residents of Lake and Sumter counties, we are not without options. In an area blessed with natural beauty and steady growth, finding a local venue to accommodate expectations, as well as budget, may not be as taxing as you believed. Whether you drink up the Old Florida charm, or crave a more modern setting, here is a list to help you find just what you’re looking for, right in your own backyard:

Pavilion on the Lake Grand is the overall impression given by the Pavilion on the Lake. This stunning venue, located in downtown

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Tavares, abuts Wooten Park. Looking toward the lake, the building opens wide and welcoming. The long, lighted walk up the pier, and the twin curved staircases coming from the front-facing balcony, are amazing. When I first visited this gem, completed just last year, I envisioned some of my favorite movies being played out. I thought of the scene in “The Count of Monte Cristo,” in which Edmund Dantes threw his first ball as the insanely wealthy count, and I half expected a hot air balloon to come floating up across Lake Dora. Inside and outside, this venue is visually striking. Wooden trusses, plenty of natural lighting from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the beautiful view of the lake will give your event a wonderful touch of elegance. Pavilion on the Lake is furnished with antiques and one-of-a-kind art-

work, making it fit for the extravagance of one of Jay Gatsby’s swinging dinner parties. It includes two grand ballrooms, several meeting spaces, and a 150-foot brick paved pier, The Pavilion on the Lake is better than fiction, mainly because it is here for your use. The city of Tavares made rates relatively modest, and offers a variety of catering options. If you want to make a statement with your next event, consider taking a tour for yourself. Contact them by email at TavaresPavilion@Tavares. org or call 352.253.4300.

STORY: Michelle Clark

ATMOSPHERE IS A MAJOR PART OF PLANNING YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION.

CITY G U I DE

GRAND IS THE OVERALL IMPRESSION GIVEN BY THE PAVILION ON THE LAKE.

October 20 15

CITY G U I DE Harbor Hills Country Club Harbor Hills in Lady Lake is where the peacocks roam, and residents spend Saturdays playing golf. Most of us townies have attended an event at Harbor Hills, or 20. With its spacious banquet halls and lovely views, it is a favorite among those in immediate area, as well as the larger central Florida region. My high school proms were at Harbor Hills. However, the reason people choose this venue, time and time again, is due to its many options. The country club is set up for success, both in layout and excellent staff; hosting an event here is smooth sailing. From the kitchen, expect nothing but the best gourmet meals, whether guests number in the tens or hundreds. Quality is never compromised for quantity. The banquet halls are beautiful and capable of hosting large numbers. Meeting rooms are elegantly and comfortably furnished; equipped for business and outfitted with Wi-Fi and quality projection equipment. The lounge and billiard room is ideal for mixers, club meetings, or other social gatherings. This facility is connected to a wonderful community, and that is what is extended to you. Beyond the amenities offered, Harbor Hills provides professional and personal service. You are family here, not a dollar. Harbor Hills sets the standard high. To get more information, visit harborhills.com or give them a call at 352.753.7000.

OPERA HOUSE… IS A LITTLE PIECE OF LOCAL HISTORY.

Leesburg Opera House The old Opera House, as I’ve always known it, is a little piece of local history. Nestled in Leesburg’s downtown area, it has housed the city’s entertainment and celebrations since 1889. The building has welcomed guests such as Annie Oakley, and bore witness to traditions like the coming out of local belles. It was built shortly after Leesburg’s first boom, and with the renovations of past years, it has preserved beautifully, its charm only increasing.

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LEESBURG OPERA HOUSE

Leslie Campione

LAKE COUNTY COMMISSIONER, ONER, DISTRICT 4

“I love Lake ke because

people care aboutt each other; whether it is a fundraiser draiser for a nonproʏt organization, ation, a food drive, or small community mmunity event to help a family in need, people in Lake County get involved and step up to help others.” There are certain things about ut Lake County I hope never change, but I also lso like to see progress. Because I grew up here and have lived here so long, I have a real eal appreciation for protecting Lake County from too many changes. I began practicing law in 1991, and raised my children here. There ere is a great level of pride in our community. I really have loved the last ʏve years serving as a Lake County commissioner because it gave ve me a chance to focus on improving certain n aspects of our county. It has been extremely y fulʏlling trying to solve problems and overcome ome challenges. We are working to improve the lives of residents, by promoting the diversiʏcation of our economy, attracting high igh wage job opportunities, and creating career areer paths for young people. If there were a legacy I could leave behind, it would be to have played a sma small all part in the long-term diversiʏ cation of our ʏ Lake County economy. I want nt to create more re opportunities for the next generation neration while protecting the unique qualities es of Lake County.

October Oc Oct O ccttoob obe bbeer 20 201 15 5

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CITY G U I DE Exposed brick and vaulted ceilings exhibit the building’s age and dignity. Opera House Events would love to help you host your party, meeting, or reception. This venue is well suited to staff meetings and conferences, as well as all kinds of formal affairs. To be a part of the tradition, visit operahouseevents. com or call 352.728.0033. MISSION INN RESORT & CLUB 10400 County Rd 48 Howey-In-The-Hills, FL 34737 800.874.9053 missioninnresort.com

WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER 6500 CR 139 Wildwood, FL 34785 352.330.1330 wildwood-fl.gov

LAKE RECEPTIONS 4425 N Highway 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.357.8223 lakereceptions.com

BELLA COLLINA 15920 County Rd 455 Montverde, FL 34756 407. 469.4000 bellacollina.com

GABBY’S BANQUET AND EVENT FACILITY 699 S Hwy 27 Clermont, FL 34711 352. 394.0768 gabbysbanquetandevent.com

FIDDLER’S GREEN RANCH–ALTOONA 42725 W Altoona Rd Altoona, FL 32702 352. 669.7111 fiddlersgreenranch.com

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CITY G U I DE

LAKESIDE INN

CLERMONT GARDEN CLUB 849 West Ave. Clermont, FL 34711 352.250.0213 clermontgardenclub.com

HICKORY POINT RECREATIONAL FACILITY

MAGNOLIA HOUSE AT TRILOGY ORLANDO

27341 State Road 19 Tavares, FL 32778 352.343.3777 lcwa.org

100 Falling Acorn Ave. Groveland, FL 34736 352.557.3029 magnoliahouseweddings.com

LAKESIDE INN

MORRIS HOUSE

100 N. Alexander St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.4101 lakeside-inn.com

17533 Silver Creek Court Clermont, FL 34711 352.435.9424

LEESBURG BOAT CLUB

MOTE-MORRIS HOUSE

1 Dozier Circle Leesburg, FL 34748 352.787.8916 or 352.326.8274 leesburgboatclub.com

1195 W. Magnolia St. Leesburg, FL 34748 352.315.1800 leesburgflorida.gov

LEGENDS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

MOUNT DORA GOLF CLUB

1700 Legendary Blvd. Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.1118 legendsgolfcc.com

1100 S. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.3954 mountdoragolf.com

COUNTRY CLUB OF MOUNT DORA 1900 Country Club Blvd. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.735.4059 ccofmtdora.com

DEER ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB 18000 Eagles Way Tavares, FL 32778 352.343.5151 deerislandgolf.com

THE DUNCAN HOUSE 426 Lake Dora Drive Tavares, FL 32778 352.435.5278

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CITY G U I DE

MOUNT DORA YACHT CLUB 351 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.3188 mountdorayachtclub.com

ROOM: VALENCIA AT THE CITRUS TOWER 141 N. U.S. Highway 27 Clermont, FL 34711 352.516.2649 valenciareceptions.com

SANCTUARY RIDGE GOLF CLUB 2601 Diamond Club Drive Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.0411 sanctuaryridgegc.com

TRIANGLE BOAT CLUB 12001 U.S. Highway 441 Tavares, FL 32778 352.533.8398 triangleboatclub.com

VENETIAN GARDENS 109 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 34748 352.728.9885 leesburgflorida.gov

THE WATERFRONT INN 1105 Lake Shore Drive The Villages, FL 32162 352.753.7535 waterfrontinnvillages.com

THE WESLEY CENTER 715 W. Juniata St. Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.4016 fumcwesleycenter.com

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THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD 4/3 situated on a double lot, huge kitchen with granite counter tops, opens to breakfast nook and family room with sliding doors to lanai. Master with double tray ceilings, his & her closets and vanities, garden tub and oversized separate shower. $279,990 MLS# G4816810.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD Open floor plan with 3 bedroom 2 bath. Kitchen features plenty of cabinetry, a 12’ breakfast bar and whirlpool appliances, vaulted ceilings. Master includes tiled shower, double sinks, large walk-in closet, and sliders leading to screen enclosed porch. $179,990 MLS# G4816275.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD Exquisite 4/2.5 features an inspiring kitchen with 42” cabinetry, granite, and loads of counter space. Bonus Room downstairs could be a den/office or extra bedroom. Master includes granite counter tops, custom tiled shower, double sinks and large garden tub. Loads of extras! $259,990 MLS# G4816313.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD BEAUTIFUL! 3 bedroom 2.5 bath two story home feautures diagonally laid tile, flowing floor plan, and large patio. Kitchen offers gorgeous black whirlpool appliances. Master includes double sinks, walk-in closet. $184,990 MLS# G4816270.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD This Lily II model is loaded!! Kitchen includes granite, tons of cabinet space, whirlpool appliances that open to family room. Vaulted ceilings and diagonally laid tile make for a classy look. Master features tiled shower, double sinks, granite counters. Split bedroom plan. $159,990 MLS# G4816274.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD Featuring 5/3.5 this conventional floor plan with a downstairs master suite includes crown molding, large walk-in closet, double sinks and garden tub. Kitchen has Corian counter tops, upgraded cabinetry, and breakfast bar. $219,990 MLS# G4816271.

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352.267.0770 // JOLEEN@MORRISREALTORS.COM

THE RESULTS WILL MOVE YOU!

HOWEY IN THE HILLS BUILT IN 2006 Newer home in Howey. 3/2 split plan with an oversized 2 car garage. Open floor plan and Large master bedroom and bath. Office/Den for even a 4th bedroom. Newly fenced in back yard. $169,900.

10.5 ACRES ZONED RESIDENTIAL PROFESSIONAL.

FAIRWAYS IN WILDWOOD Fabulous find tucked

WATERFRONT ON LAKE JOANNA IN PARK PLACE 4/4 with 4500 sqft of living area. Screened pool with

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME HERE - fantastic views

WOW HORSE LOVERS PARADISE ON 5 ACRES - 3/2 with living room and family room with fireplace.

away but minutes away from Brownwood Square in the Villages. 3/3 with office/Den. Open floor plan. with upgrades galore. 3 car garage and home is on oversized lot. $349,900.

on this beautiful 5 acres zoned agr. Paved road. What a peaceful drive home. $85,000.

Great Investment. $80,000.

BE ON THE CHAIN OF LAKES leading to Little Lake Harris. Fish from your own back yard. Deep water canal. 2/2 home with Florida room and large double car carport. Lots of storage. Boat house. Lunch is just a boat ride away. $159,900.

waterfall spa. Oversized 3 car garage. Situated on over an acre of land in a park like setting. This home has it all. Great place to raise a family and perfect home for entertaining. $725,000.

Home is immaculate and move in ready. Large pool overlooking the countryside. 5 stall barn each stall 12x12. Fenced and cross fenced. Oversized 2 car carport. Workshop. BBQ room and patio. Bring your family and horses and move on in. This home has it all. 230,000.

BOHANON & ASSOCIATES LAND SURVEYING, LLC.

“We provide peace of mind to our clients real estate purchase and construction projects”

5516 SE 113th Street, Belleview

352-236-2212

BohanonALS.com morrisrealtors.com

| 3

JOAN DEFOE REALTOR®

352.516.6843 // JOAN@MORRISREALTORS.COM REAL ESTATE “LITTLE GIANT” // MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER // PREMIER AGENT

CHAIN OF LAKES WATERFRONT! Tucked away in your own oasis this great three bedroom two bath home

BRING FISHING POLE AND ROCKING CHAIRS to this

RELAX AND ENJOY this “lagoon style” pool and

FRENCH COUNTRY…EUROPEAN FLARE 3/2 with

also includes a den/office. Two boats slips with double hoist and upstairs sun deck or great for star gazing. Spectacular views from almost all rooms to enjoy sunsets and sunrises. Deep driveway with lots of parking leads to this BOATERS DREAM HOME! $499,000 MLS# G4815689.

spa. Large 4/3 home features French doors to formal dining/separate living area with triple sliders open to summer kitchen, lanai, and pool area. This home has it all. MLS# 4810759 $470,000.

ENJOY THIS AFFORDABLE 3/2 plus 2 car garage. Great room and dining area with cathedral ceiling, open to Florida room with glass windows and patio. Master bedroom with walk in closet and and garden tub for “bubble bath” relaxation, separate shower and double sinks. $147,000 MLS# G4815579.

gorgeous 3/2 lakefront home. Huge master suite with walk in closet, bathtub with jets, walk in shower and vanity with cultured marble top. Amazing view of Lake Idlewild with your own dock and personal concrete ramp to access your boat or jet ski to water. $295,000 MLS# G4816438.

custom wood work. Master bedroom w/built in colonial furniture/shelving. Double door entry to master bath, his/her raised granite vanities and large walk in closet. $289,000 MLS# G4814528.

352-326-4007 | www.insureleesburg.com

Cell: 321.287.5440 Office: 321.888.2431 Fax: 321.285.0040 5222 Andrus Ave., Suite A Orlando, Florida 32810

Todd Levensohn Mortgage Lender NMLS 299664

www.mortgagetodd.com

Licensed by Florida Office of Financial Regulation Branch NMLS 1288871

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

todd.levensohn@cfimortgage.com

VALERIE FOERST

REALTOR®

352.360.3492 // VALERIE@MORRISREALTORS.COM

YOUR CENTRAL FLORIDA NATIVE // 35 YEARS OF HELPING CENTRAL FLORIDA WITH THEIR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

JUST LISTED Scottish Highlands Pond view with

custom upgrades. Ceramic Tile throughout, gorgeous open light kitchen, with Island split plan, no popcorn ceilings and roof was replaced in ‘09. Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $110,000 MLS# G4816037.

BACK ON THE MARKET 4 bedroom 4 bath with

POOL. Very open retro plan with Tile in all living areas. Cathedral Ceilings and possible Mother-InLaw suite. This is a very Unique Home! Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $215,000 MLS# G4808450.

LAKE EUSTIS CHAIN 100 FT on this pristine Lake. Double Boat House with Lifts. 4 or 5 Bedrooms and 4 Baths, POOL, 30x30 game room with custom Bar. Kitchen has recently been renovated with custom wood cabinets...top of the line stainless appliances including Gas Stove with Convection Oven and built in slide out Microwave. Real Hardwood Floors and Ceramic Tile through out and Double Master Suites. Dual Zone Air and water heaters and much much more! Excellent Price for the Value, Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $549,000 MLS# G4810857.

NEAR THE VILLAGES IN WINGSPREAD - with a 4 CAR GARAGE! Stately 4 bedroom plus office and Fireplace. Volume Ceilings, Granite counter tops, Lots of Tile and Laminate on a half acre. Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $340,000 MLS# G4815521.

NEW CONSTRUCTION Ryland Homes 3/2 in Grand Island Reserve, 1481 SQ FT with Granite Countertops and Tile in living areas. $152,946 MLS# T2759876. Have a home to Sell? Buy a Ryland Home and ask about the huge discount possible on YOUR sale. You must Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492.

CRYSTAL CLEAR INSPECTION SERVICES Florida Licensed Home Inspectors NACHI Certied

…When Experience Matters… Expect Excellence

P.O. Box 274 Eustis, FL 32727 info@ccis4u.com

The Team Proudly Welcomes TIM WEGNER

Erick J. Trecek Certied Master Inspector FLHI3403 NACHI11033102

352.455.0352

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT INSPECT BEFORE YOU INVEST

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| 5

KIM DUCHARME REALTOR®

352.874.5906 // KIM@MORRISREALTORS.COM KIM CONNECTS...YOUR REAL ESTATE CONNECTION!

HARBOR HILLS 3/2 with direct golf course frontage on just under 1 acre. 1800+ sq ft of living. Open floor plan, volume ceilings, granite countertops in kitchen. Immaculate and move in ready! Furniture negotiable. A must see! 2 car garage + golf cart garage. $289,000 MLS# G4811559.

LAKEFRONT PROPERTY! DREAMING OF BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME? Imagine watching the sunrise

UNFORGETTABLE 1ST IMPRESSION! Golf Course Frontage! 2,500+ sq ft. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Kitchen features quartz counter tops, center island, more! His/her garage plus 2 dens and so much more! $339,000 MLS# G4816150.

TERRAGONA DR.-3/2 2 story home located in the gated golfing community of Sorrento Springs. Over 2600 sq ft of welcome living space. No rear neighbors! $169,000. MLS#G4800483

with a cup of coffee from your back patio overlooking the lake. Make your dreams a reality today! Located on Lake Geneva next to Camp Geneva. $34,900.

Ross Plumbing Cleaner • Faster • Better TFR inc

Lic. # CFC056481

352-728-6053

TerryRossPlumbing.com

930 Thomas Ave., Leesburg

DRUG-FREE • HONEST • RELIABLE • EXPERIENCED • PROFESSIONAL

Contact: Amanda Wettstein

352.406.0422

Cell: 321.287.5440 Office: 321.888.2431 Fax: 321.285.0040 5222 Andrus Ave., Suite A Orlando, Florida 32810

Todd Levensohn Mortgage Lender NMLS 299664

www.mortgagetodd.com

Licensed by Florida Office of Financial Regulation Branch NMLS 1288871

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

todd.levensohn@cfimortgage.com

GREG BOLIEK REALTOR®

352.267.2349 // GREG@MORRISREALTORS.COM

3/2 IN WELL ESTABLISHED NEIGHBORHOOD. You’ll love this beautiful home located just off the main highway but far enough away that it is quiet. Living in this neighborhood puts you within a short distance of restaurants, shopping, Florida Waterman Hospital and all of the count judicial offices. Downtown Tavares is just a short stroll or quick bike ride away where you can watch sea planes land or splash in the Splash Park. MLS# G4816328

GREAT IN TOWN LOCATION The lot is fully buildable and virtually no site work or prep needed. Electric, city water, cable, internet, and phone service available to site. There are a total of (5) lots together and a discount will be offered for bulk purchase of all. MLS# G4815839

HAVE YOU HEARD? Morris Realty and Investments now has a new branch. Morris Realty Mobile Home Sales. That's right, now you can buy and sell mobile homes on rented land through one of the most trusted and well known names and a leader in our real estate industry. At Morris Realty we have a record of success built on honesty, integrity, knowledge and personal service. You can call me anytime about buying or selling your home.

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| 7

LAUREN FICKETT REALTOR®

352.636.2167 // LAUREN@MORRISREALTORS.COM LEAVE IT TO LAUREN!

COUNTRY LIVING AT IT’S FINEST! 5 ACRES! 4/3, 3500+ sq ft of living. Formal living with fireplace, Kitchen with gorgeous cabinetry and granite overlooking family room, Formal dining. Whole house crown molding. To many upgrades to list. Call today. Estimated completion 10/31/15. $599,900.

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY! This gorgeous custom built 5/3.5 home awaits you! PLUS game room. Large kitchen, Family room with fireplace, Large bedrooms, screened-in back patio and fenced in back yard! This home is perfect for the large family. Don’t miss out! $299,900.

VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD! Priced below

PEACE AND QUIET AWAITS YOU! 2+ acres! POOL HOME! This 2 bedroom 1.5 bath home is settled back off the road with such a private feel. Gorgeous large pool area. Great for entertaining. New A/C in 2013 and new pool pump 2014. $159,000.

ELEGANT...EXQUISITE...STUNNING! Luxury living at it’s finest with this new home. Will be completed August 2015. 4/3.5 home with 4,200 sqft of living and 3 car garage situated on almost 4 acres. Summer kitchen with gorgeous pool with tanning area and spa. Gated community. Truly a must see! $765,000.

BRING YOUR OWN BUILDER! This gorgeous lot is perfect for a new home. Lake view. Gorgeous oak trees. Nice and open. $29,900.

ROOM FOR EVERYONE! 3/2.5 with den/office and 2,200 sqft of living. Large kitchen with granite counter tops, 2 pantries and island. Master with vaulted ceilings, garden tub with separate shower and his & her walk-in closets. Not a short sale or bank owned…just a great deal! $154,900.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! This 3/2 with almost 2,000 sqft of living is located right outside The Villages. NO HOA! Open floor plan with large living area with wood burning fireplace. Fenced in backyard with 30x30 detached garage...it even has A/C! Also included is a separate 16x10 shed with wall unit and work bench. $104,900.

GREAT FIRST TIME BUYER HOME OR RENTAL! Located in Leesburg this 3/1 has many updates in 2015 to include... New kitchen cabinets, countertops & flooring, new light fixtures in living area and new water heater. 2 car carport, fenced back yard and perfect storage shed. Seller will allow allowance for new appliances. $79,000.

appraisal! Bring your family to this family friendly neighborhood in The Villages. Open floor plan with living/dining combo. Kitchen with breakfast bar... great for entertaining with open concept. $150,000 MLS# G4811653.

PANDORA • Vera Bradley • Costa Del Mar Vietri Lampe Berger & much more! 7 -AIN 3T p (ISTORIC $OWNTOWN ,EESBURG &, p /PEN - & p 3AT

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

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MARSELLA FABRE REALTOR®

352.217.0575 // MARSELLA@MORRISREALTORS.COM

MAGNIFICENT CANAL FRONT Lease Option/Purchase possible with satisfactory Terms for Seller. Great 5BR/4.5BA plus 1/1 with full kitchen in law Apartment. Adventure to the Ocean! $350,000 MLS# G4707007.

UNIQUE FIND! 434 FT Lakefront on Chain of Lakes. 3/3 main house with screened Pool, 2 car garage and two story 2/2 apartment. 5 star energy efficient appliances. Newer A/C. $450,000 MLS# G4808882.

morrisrealtors.com

| 9

MICHAEL BARRETT

RESIDENTIAL SALES // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND RENTALS

352.255.5710 // MICHAEL@MORRISREALTORS.COM

OVER 2000 SQUARE FEET OF POTENTIAL await in this Palmora Park home. Situated on a large corner lot with 1/3 of an acre, this four bedroom home features multiple additional rooms for optimal space. Take a look today and do not miss this opportunity! $149,900 MLS# G4815253.

FABULOUS LOCATION! This Patio Villa in The Villages is located a short distance to Lake Sumter Landing. It doesn’t get better than fresh paint, fabulous corner lot, and a great price. Make this one yours today! $174,900 MLS# G4815482.

STUNNING AND FUNCTIONAL! This amazing 5/4.5 has everything! Extras from top to bottom. New roof in 2014,

custom lighting, inside features gorgeous wood floors, 12' ceilings, crown molding, tray ceilings, top of the line surround sound wiring, security system and more. The kitchen has an island and newer appliances. The master is large enough for a separate sitting area, french doors lead to the lanai and a completely upgraded bath with built in vanities, marble countertops, custom tile and granite, a large shower and cozy soaking tub. Pool area complete with child safety fence and the fenced backyard has lush landscaping and an amazing playground area. $525,000 MLS# G4809346.

TRADITIONAL CUSTOM HOME in Palmora Park is waiting for you! Complete with a boat dock on the canal to the Harris Chain of Lakes. Floor plan has beautiful fixtures, new carpet, ceramic tile, plenty of windows for natural light, and upgrades throughout. Come see the prettiest home in Palmora Park! $299,000 MLS# G4815253.

FRUITLAND PARK SERENITY! This amazing 3/2 built in 2005 has a backyard and lanai that is perfect for Florida! The open floor plan features an additional den and a formal dining plus eating area in kitchen. Perfect for the family! $199,000 MLS# G4702852

David Knowles Exclusive Agent David A. Knowles Agency Allstate Insurance Company 4120 Corely Island Road, Suite # 100 Leesburg, FL 34748 24 Hour Customer Service

Cell: 352.455.2589 10 |

FL Insurance License # A143808 Phone: 352.326.9300

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

Fax: 352.326.3931

SCOTT STREM

REALTOR®

352.978.3428 // SCOTT@MORRISREALTORS.COM

SERIOUS ABOUT SELLING // MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER

REDUCED

WONDERFUL LAKE DORA FRONTAGE ON PRESTIGIOUS LAKESHORE DRIVE! This 3/2.5 home features nearly 125 ft. LAKE frontage on half and acre, complete with boat dock and aluminum seawall! Home features a spacious kitchen, vaulted ceilings, newer roof and A/C, and updated flooring! LOW COUNTY TAXES! $429,900 MLS# G4807523.

CUSTOM LAKEFRONT 3 BED 2 BATH HOME! Spectacular views of the lake from nearly every room! Large backyard with 100 feet of pristine lakefront - all on just over 1/2 acre! The open floor plan layout is perfect for entertaining and taking in the lakefront views! Located between historic Mount Dora and Tavares! Bring the jet ski’s and tubes and wakeboards! $298,000 MLS#G4814552.

CAREFREE, LOW MAINTENANCE LIVING! This perfectly maintained condo features laminate flooring, ceramic tile, and even it’s own private screened in courtyard with a jetted spa/pool! Convenient central Tavares location! $109,900.

LAKE EUSTIS VIEWS! Fully remodeled 1572 sq ft 3/2 home with screened in porch on large lot! Brand new kitchen and baths, new windows, and a cozy stone fireplace. Just minutes from downtown Tavaresl! $219,000 MLS# G4810903.

DIRECT LAKE HARRIS LAKEFRONT! This one of a kind lot boasts 200+/- ft of frontage on the Harris Chain of Lakes, elevated sunset views over the water, and even a professionally maintained organic orange grove on site! This is paradise! $335,000 MLS# G4815996.

ONE OF A KIND! 90 +/- ACRES ON LAKE YALE! Over 2000 waterfront feet on lake yale and over 2400 front feet on cr 452! Beautiful level land with amazing waterfront views. Property has numerous potential uses! $849,900 MLS# G4808401.

10+/- ACRES OF NICE CLEARED LEVEL LAND in area of larger estate homes on cr 452. Beautiful home site, bring the horses! $124,900 MLS# G4808399.

NEARLY ONE ACRE LOCATED ON HWY 27 at the entrance of Royal Highlands. Located in area of many highly populated gated communities, with excellent exposure and traffic including benefit of signalized intersection. Great location for office, retail, and other commercial possibilities! $250,000 MLS# G4816685.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

725 E Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352.408.5999 cell // 352.742.1077 fax

morrisrealtors.com

| 11

CAMIE KENNEDY REALTOR®

352.408.4668 // CAMIE@MORRISREALTORS.COM CAMIE CAN!

HARBOR HILLS - GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE

Spacious 4/2 with beautiful panoramic golf course views. Large glass enclosed Florida room with wet bar, vaulted ceilings, separate breakfast nook, rounded corners and many other upgrades. Sure to impress! $299,990 MLS# G4808902.

HARBOR HILLS - GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE at end of street… 3/2 with great, functional floor plan, spacious great room, formal dining, inside laundry room and 2 car & golf cart garage. Vaulted ceiling and large enclosed lanai off back of home… what great views! Don’t miss this one! $219,900 MLS# G4815920.

HARBOR HILLS - THE GROVES Ready to go, 3/2 pool home with no rear neighbors! Formal dining, volume ceilings, breakfast nook, split plan, separate 10x13 room, inside laundry room and much more! All this in sought after gated/ golf community. Don’t pass this one by! $249,900 MLS# G4816749.

HARBOR HILLS WITH GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE

HARBOR HILLS Immaculate inside and out! 2/2.5 with

HARBOR HILLS - VILLA (former model) with no

DEL WEBB SPRUCE CREEK SOUTH COUNTRY CLUB

SUMMERFIELD - Very well maintained 4/2 on corner lot, with fenced back yard. Fresh laminate wood flooring in several rooms. Great find - must see to appreciate! $78,000 MLS# G4814026.

LADY LAKE - Spacious 4/2.5 on a gorgeous one

Free Estimates

Lic# EC13005476

352-460-0810

12 |

• LIGHTNING & SURGE PROTECTION • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

www.ElectricalWorksFlorida.com

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

Free Termite Inspections

rear neighbors and great views! 2 bedroom with one being a Master suite/ Mother in Law quarters with own entrance. New carpet, neutral colors, inside laundry and more! You must check out this gem! $144,500 MLS# G4815928.

acre parcel. Den, formal dining plus an eat in kitchen. 2-car garage, 2-car carport and a detached garage/ workshop - so bring the toys! So much to offer, you simply must see… $235,000 MLS# G4815656.

I D A

Absolutley GORGEOUS 3/2 with many features/ upgrades... Laminate wood flooring, tile laid on diagonal, solar tube, crown molding, granite and stainless steel appliances - and so much more! Act Fast! $232,750 MLS# G4816332.

private backyard. “Seville” model with den, dining room, breakfast nook and spacious inside laundry room. Many upgrades: Pavers, extended lanai, arched entry ways and more! This is the one! $244,900 MLS# G4815925.

Southern Living comes to life in this 3/2.5 home. True one of a kind with formal dining, den/ office, wood floors, granite, Jack and Jill bath, large inside laundry room and oversized 2 car garage. Many, many features. Come be wowed! $339,900 MLS# G4816664.

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LYNN HAYNES

REALTOR®

352.516.0903 // LYNN@MORRISREALTORS.COM

LAKEFRONT…POOL…FIVE BEDROOMS AND FOUR BATHROOMS…enjoy almost two acres on tranquil peaceful waters. Formal living and dining area. Huge kitchen with island & walk in pantry for the “gourmet “ cook and breakfast nook open to great room. Multiple master suites and den/office, too. Lots of summer fun in the oversized pool/lanai area. In the winter snuggle by one of the four fireplaces. Family recreation with your own SPORTS COURT for tennis & basketball or fish from your own dock in backyard. Minutes to The Villages, Interstate 75 and turnpike. WOW. FABULOUS FIND…bring the family…ROOM FOR EVERYBODY! $589,000 MLS# G4810354

HARBOR HILLS 3/2 2 car plus golf cart garage

with security gate and “Chain of lakes” access. No rear neighbors. Come see all the upgrades in this home. Vacant and ready for immediate occupancy! $224,900 MLS# G4810006.

LAKE HARRIS POOL HOME on 5.5 acres with

neighboring homes ranging up to $1.7 million. This 3 bedroom 2 bath home is ready for an update, renovation or expansion and you save on impact fees. $399,000 MLS# G4812314.

GREAT LOCATION minutes to the El Santiago recreation center, town squares, medical facilities, shopping, restaurants, recreation, entertainment & more! Come see this 3/2 on a quiet street with the Bond balance under $300! $249,900 MLS# G4816347

Take charge of your ﬁnancial future. Call us today at 352.350.2397. VAN VOORHEES, ELSTAD & ASSOCIATES A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 3507 Wedgewood Lane The Villages, FL 32162 352.350.2397 rob.elstad@ampf.com steven.van.voorhees@ampf.com www.VE-Associates.com

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| 13

LINDA MARSH REALTOR®

352.978.3016 // LINDAMARSH@MORRISREALTORS.COM

PARK PLACE ON LAKE JOANNA This stunning 5/4 pool home with lake views and deeded access has a bright open floor plan with many quality features!

Genuine wood flooring,cathedral ceilings, wood burning fireplace, solar heated pool & spa and three car garage! The upstairs bonus room and full bath is perfect for visiting guests, media room or play room. The fabulous dream kitchen has a large center island, custom cabinets, walk-in pantry, corian counters, under cabinet lighting and breakfast nook and bar. The master suite features a jetted garden tub, separate shower and two huge walk in closets. French doors lead out to 30X20 screened lanai with sparkling pool & spa, perfect for entertaining! Your guests will appreciate the peaceful and private back yard with no rear neighbors and magnificent lake views. This amazing home won’t last long! Call Linda 352-978-3016 $399,900 MLS #G4812189

IMPECCABLE AND CHARMING 3/2 block home in

Fruitland Park. Light and bright kitchen, separate dining room, sunken living room, family room and split bedrooms. Roof has been replaced and heater is like new. No water bill and no HOA fees. Call now to see this very special home today! $146,000 call Linda at 352-978-3016.

GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS! Come see this gorgeous 3/2 home situated in a

perfect setting in the popular Nottoway Village! This home will not last long with it’s bright open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, Master with two walk-in closets, garden tub and double vanities. Kitchen features breakfast nook with bay window and lots of cabinets. The spacious lanai overlooks the rolling hills of the golf course and perfect for entertaining. $85 month you can enjoy all amenities - two 18 hole golf courses, lighted ted tennis courts, swimming pools & much more! $225,000 MLS# G4813735 call Linda at 352-978-3016.

LEAH D. CONNER Interior Designer ID# 0004224

Custom Window Treatments

Commercial

Residential Consulting

352.406.3018

leahdconner.com

14 |

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

Staging

leahdconner@gmail.com

LENA WILLIAMS REALTOR®

352.636.4488 // LENA@MORRISREALTORS.COM LENA SELLS!

GORGEOUS SILVER LAKE AREA POOL HOME 3200+ sqft, 4/2.5 on almost a half acre with oversized 2 car garage with work bench area, large rooms with walk in closets, wood floors, stunning fireplace, and more... This traditional style gem will not last long! $275,000 MLS# G4814359.

WILDWOOD! FAIRWAYS BEAUTY! There’s plenty of

FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE! Fruitland park 3/2 almost 1 acre lakefront with wonderful floorplan, inviting porch, and more! Priced at $158,000 MLS# G4816485.

PALMORA PARK! Here’s your chance to live in the historical neighborhood in Leesburg for $164,900. This 3/1.5 home is two stories and features a classic feel with hardwood floors, fireplace, and a fenced corner lot. MLS# G4812714.

LADY LAKE BEAUTY! Make your home here with

SILVER LAKE BEAUTY! Enjoy gorgeous sunsets over

room in this 4 bedroom, 3 bath with almost 2200 sq. ft. Enjoy no rear neighbors, a cozy patio, a nice open floor plan, formal dining and breakfast nook, and even an additional den! $239,900 MLS# G4814603.

2300 square feet, .70 acres, a three car garage, and more in the Oak Pointe subdivision. This home won’t last at $238,800 MLS# G4816486.

silver lake from your own home... this three 3/2.5 house features a gourmet kitchen with granite, top of the line appliances, and gorgeous features throughout. 1.7 acres with a detached game room/in law potential. $499,900.

VACANT LAND

OPPORTUNITIES 4 PARCELS available in beautiful Oak Point in Lady Lake starting at $39,900

2 ACRES Non Deed Restricted in Lady Lake $68000

CUSTOM PALMORA PARK CANAL FRONT home with

almost 2400 sq.ft., a gorgeous firepit gathering area, outside entertaining bar, and a classic traditional floorplan. Lease for $1900/month or purchase at $299,000 MLS# G4815617.

38751 Lakeview Walk Lady Lake, FL 32159 352-459-5261

10+ ACRES in Lady Lake $160,000 STUNNING SUNNYSIDE PARCEL - 5+ acres Direct Lakefront on the Harris Chain $335,000

$ON 2IXIE

Lt. Col. (R), U.S. Army Owner

6ETERAN /WNED s %MPLOYING 6ETERANS Licensed - Insured - Bonded

WELCOME HOME TO SKYRANCH! Enter the beautiful 40

acre, 5/6.5 estate through the gorgeous gated entrance or arrive in style by plane on your private grass runway. The detached barn houses a separate living area with a 1/1 full kitchen studio upstairs and a two-room suite with full bath downstairs. $980,000 MLS# G4806928.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

725 E Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352.408.5999 cell // 352.742.1077 fax

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| 15

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YOUR STREET ADDRESS ISN’T THE ONLY TELL-TALE SIGN YOU’RE A LAKE-SUMTER RESIDENT; YOU MAY LIVE AND WORK IN LAKE AND SUMTER COUNTIES, BUT CHANCES ARE YOU PLAY HERE TOO! AND IF YOU DON’T, YOU SHOULD. Lake and Sumter counties are full of active and lively people, and there are enough activities for each of us, with our diverse interests and abilities, to never be bored or idle a day in our lives. Unless, that is, you need some R&R, and there are nature walks and spas here for that too. Here’s a list to whip out the next time someone asks “What’s there to do around here?”

NATURE ONE THING WE LIKE TO DO HERE IS PLAY OUTSIDE. WE CAN HARDLY RESIST WHEN SURROUNDED BY SUCH BRILLIANTLY WROUGHT LANDSCAPES. THESE LANDSCAPES, NOT OF CANVAS AND OIL BUT OF WATER, LAND, AND AIR, BEG OUR SENSES FOR INTERACTION. THEY ARE NOT JUST FOR LOOKING, BUT FOR SWIMMING, FISHING, HIKING, RIDING, AND WONDERFUL WANDERINGS OF ALL SORTS.

WATER Lakes, creeks, and springs abound. You may already have your favorite fishing spot or lake side hangout, but maybe it’s time to try something new. People come from all over to fish like a local here in Lake and Sumter counties. The Lake Harris Chain of Lakes is a big destination for serious bass fishers. It has been the backdrop for quite a few nationally televised competitions. The waterways are well

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stocked with large bass but are not for easy fishing, making it perfect for adding a competitive edge. Fishing here is challenging but also rewarding, some anglers boasting 14-pound catches. Sumter County isn’t counted out of the bass game. It is the home of The Florida Bass Conservation Center, which houses one of the major fresh water hatcheries in the state. Sumter also boasts the 4,460-acre Lake Panasoffkee. Tom and Jerry’s Airboat rides, 190 N W 4th Dr. Lake Panasoffkee,

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offer a special view of the swamp land around Lake Pan; they can introduce you to the lake’s nooks and crannies, teeming with Florida wildlife. Their favorite show and tell is the Florida gators. Back in Lake County, at a little bit slower pace, is the Heritage Lake tours. The “Sea Heaven” embarks with Capt. D.J. and Lynne Hollander from the Palm Garden Fish Camp, six days a week. Their aim is education in action, and their favorite show and tell is the 25 bird species that nest along the banks of the Dead River and Dora Canal. As residents, we have access to champion fishing and personal wildlife encounters everywhere we turn. The Hickory Point Recreational Facilities in Tavares and Lake Minneola’s Waterfront Park in Clermont are some favorite local spots to get together with friends. Pack a lunch, claim a picnic table and a spot on the pier or bank, and cast. It’s a no brainer for a good time.

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CANOEING ON LAKE LOUISA

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CITY G U I DE Need a place to launch? Access local lakes at Florida Avenue West ramp in Astatula; Singletary Park in Leesburg on U.S. 27; Venetian Gardens off of State Road 44 in Leesburg; Hickory Point Recreational Facility on State Road 19 in Tavares; Lake Griffin State Park in Fruitland Park; the Coleman Landing Boat Ramp; Croom Wildlife Management Area; Jumper Creek; and Lake Okahumpa Park.. A lot of these bodies of water are not only good for fishing, but other water activities like paddling, water skiing, wake boarding, etc. Never donned a pair of water skis? There are several local schools waiting to make that happen: Benzel Ski in Groveland, Sunset Lakes in Okahumpka, and Swiss Ski in Clermont. Flyboarding is another option for the adventure-minded. This sport involves using a jet pack or jet boots to propel the user into the air above the water. Yes, this is a for real thing. Check out Quest Air in Groveland.

OTHER WATER FUN:

ALEXANDER SPRINGS

Or maybe you’d just like to go floatin’. No matter, the water is a great place to spend the day. Alexander Springs State Park, with its waters at a constant 72 degrees, is a great place to beat the Florida heat—while it lasts—and remains manageable in the cooler months. Here

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you find adventure beyond the water’s edge. There is a whole world of fresh water creatures to be found with a pair of goggles and a snorkel. One place for water fun that you may not know is Wekiva Falls in Sorrento, an RV Park with its very own two-slide

ST. JOHNS RIVER TOURS

TRACY’S POINT FISHING LODGE

55716 Front Street, Astor 866.349.0674

950 County Road 437, Lake Panasoffkee 352.793.8060

BIG CYPRESS BAIT AND TACKLE

WYSONG PARK & BOAT RAMP

3096 N. C. 470, Lake Panasoffkee 352.569.4193

4743 NW 46 Rd., Lake Panasoffkee 352.569.6700

GANT LAKE PARK & BOAT RAMP

PROMISE RANCH

1125 C-478A, Webster

Center Hill 352.303.0901

GET WET WATERSPORTS 1000 West Burleigh Blvd., Tavares 352.253.0585.

DORA CANAL PREMIER BOAT TOURS

CLERMONT WATERFRONT BIKES AND BOARDS 15 Second St,. Clermont 352.394.0535

100 N Alexander St., Mount Dora 352.434.8040

FLORIDA FROM A KAYAK 352.406.0904

FIRESTORM AIRBOAT TOURS 407.463.8961

MARSH BEND OUTLET PARK LAKE SUMTER LINE BOAT TOURS

BJ’S AIRBOAT ADVENTURES

Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages 352.751.7110

3100 County Road 413, Lake Panasoffkee 352.689.4400

RUSTY ANCHOR MOUNT DORA

SWAMP FEVER AIRBOAT ADVENTURES

400 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora 352.383.3933

4110 NW 42nd Place, Lake Panasoffkee 352.643.0708

8271 County Road 48, Bushnell 321.442.3464

CAT BOAT TOURS OF MOUNT DORA 311 South Tremain St., Mount Dora 352.816.9339

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CITY G U I DE LAND

water park, which splashes into a warm sulfur spring. The park paints itself as a daily hangout spot; and it is for many who park there; it can be for you too. On holiday and select weekends they host a local DJ. Individual daily admission is only $8 per adult and $6 per child (ages 2-11), or price per carload is $25 (maximum 6 guests per vehicle), which ends up being about $4 a person! A day of fun that’s cheaper than your coffee daily order. The kids would have a ball with any of these activities, but if you want

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something geared specifically toward them, the area is littered with splash pads and water parks. Tavares’ Seaplane themed splash park operates seasonally and neighbors Wooten Park. So much fun, adults have a hard time remembering it’s for the kids. Other splash stations include Clermont Champions Splash Park at Waterfront Park, The Wet Zone at Family Adventure Camp on the Withlacoochee River, and the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground at the Central Florida Zoo.

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While many of us take naturally to the water, the land too, has a distinct legacy in Lake and Sumter counties. Both areas began and some parts remain, largely rooted in agriculture. We use the land to provide a livelihood, but it also serves us as a source of great joy, providing the setting for many of our timeless recreations. Whether exploring nature by foot, bike, or horseback, we engage our bodies, the land, and a history. One benefit of being a grouping of mainly smaller cities and towns is how much we are able to preserve of the land through a vast system of national, state, and community parks. These parks provide a myriad of activities and accommodations. The sheer number of trails they house make it impossible to list them all. Lake County has a division called “Parks & Trails,” which indicates how important trails are to the area. There’s a kind of magic when you lace up your tennis shoes and hit the dirt on a trail that winds through storied oaks and palms. Signing up for the Parks & Trails newsletter on the Lake County website can be a great resource. They have practical information about trails and parking accommodations, but you can also be included in various events that incorporate the trails. These include numerous plant and wildlife festivals. They also have a Facebook page that posts regularly, so you stay involved even when you’re not kicking up dirt. The jewel of the Sumter County system of trails may be the Mabel Trailhead, which begins the Van Fleet State Trail. The 29.2-mile trail is paved and is considered one of Florida’s most rural and remote. Running or biking this trail offers a unique glimpse into our land’s history as it cuts through swampland, forests, flatwoods, retired citrus lands, cattle ranches, and along many of our rivers. Something you may not know, even

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CITY G U I DE as a local, about this trail and many others, is that they were scouted for involvement in an expansive project to link the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. The project has been underway for some time now with some success achieved, and some success still needed. The C2C, as they call it, will cover more than 270 miles from the Pinellas Trail Head in the gulf to Titusville on the coast. But there are gaps to be closed before this a reality; one of the largest spans an estimated 30 miles across Sumter County. Many expansions were funded for Lake County connections to the trail. Back in March, Clermont became “2014 Bicycle Friendly Community of the Year” due to these expansions. Currently, a study to determine the feasibility and route for closing the gap in Sumter is underway with a completion date set for June 2016. If things go well, the C2C will be finished in 2020, with the possibility of bringing a whole new bout of tourism to Lake and Sumter counties. Visitors will be introduced to the trails we know and love, as well as the land we are so proud of. To keep up with the projects progress, trek over to The Florida Greenways & Trail Foundation website, fgtf.org, for more information, videos, and to sign up for a progress newsletter. To experience the trails and their new expansions, head to the Lake and Sumter websites (lakecountyfl.gov; sumtercountyfl.gov) for maps and other reference material. For a more personal look into the trails, check out some local hiking blogs; the writers love exploring and will share pictures, findings, musing, and tips they’ve gathered along the trails. Floridahikes.com is currently posting about the experience of biking the C2C in their blog section. This site is also a great “go to” for finding and planning your venture. They list trails and walkways by helpful categories, and you can search and take advantage of the interactive map. Floridatrailblazer.

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wordpress.com is a blog that follows a Florida native who seeks out “Ghost Towns” while hiking. He recently found one in a Lake County section of the Ocala National Forest. These are interesting reads and you may get ideas for one of your own expeditions.

OTHER POPULAR NATURE-TIVITIES: BIRD WATCHING There is a growing interest and a complete community forming for birdwatching in our area. Lake County claims to be home to over 200 bird spe-

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cies. It is also home to the annual Wings & Wild Flowers festival, which is October 2-4. The festival’s website, wingsandwildflowers.com/Birding, serves as a year-round guide for bird watching in Lake County, complete with a check list, special locations, and tips.

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CITY G U I DE HORSEBACK RIDING Just shy of Ocala horse country, Lake and Sumter counties have their own love affair with these beautiful animals. Bushnell has the Sumter Equestrian Center, which aims to offer “one of the most competitive venues for Hunter, Jumper, Dressage riders as well as All Breed horse shows in Florida.” Raising and boarding horses is a lifestyle and a livelihood, making riding a beloved sport and past time. Many places like Blue Moon Ranch in Wildwood, offer this experience to the public. At Blue Moon you can ride across 50 acres of ranch land and thousands usands of acres of local public lands, with both indoor and outdoor riding arenas. Blue Moon Ranch. 4605 CR 134,, Wildwood, FL. 352.578.4947.

GEOCACHING Putting an edge on the he traditional hiking and exploring g gig, geocaching is a nature-based activity ity that is a mixture of treasure hunt and time capsule. The premise is simple, you ou connect to the geocache community y by downloading an app or signing g up for a free profile online at geocaching. caching. com, and then you pick a geocache to find near ar you. Once you find that geocache, which is not always so easy as they are often hidden dden or require a journey, you ou sign the log book and check eck in online that you found nd it. You can also leave something thing and/ or take something ass a memento of your experience. e. People swap Knickknacks via geocache, or you can log a geocache cache coin. Coins are set up for the purpose of tracking migration through hrough the community, the places they’ve hey’ve been may astound you. The great eat thing about this activity is not only do you interact with your own immediate e community, but with the global community munity as well. There are almost 2 million Geocache sites to be found around und the world.

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There’s even a local geocachers club, visit groups.yahoo.com/ group/lakecountycachers for more info.

AIR The best way to get to know the area may be from above. From the air we can apply a new perspective to the place we call home. You may think this experience is a bit inaccessible to you, but it’s not! Private planes are privately owned, but many pilots jumped into the public sphere and made flight possible for the average Joe and Jane. You are not subject to limited options, from a one-time one time scenic joy ride to private lessons, from seaplane to hang-glider, you can find your wings a number of ways. SunAir Aviation is based out the Leesburg International Airport and offers several professional aircraft services. If you’ve always wanted to find your

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wings, maybe it’s time to look at one of their training courses, which include the prestigious Utah Valley Degree Program. Whether your interest caps at novice or extends to professional, their four well -weathered instructor pilots have the experience to get your dreams in the air. Visit their website, sunairaviation.com, and discover what they have to offer. Seaplane rides are popular, as many know, for adventure-seeking residents, and it makes sense with all the water surrounding us. Our very own Tavares is known as “America’s Seaplane City,” the community has embraced this branding and made the seaplane an integral part of their social and economic identity. The Jones Brothers Co. is the name for seaplanes in Tavares, and they offer unique experiences at neighborly prices. Rides are as low as $34, and they offer a special called the “Lake Dora: Land, Air, and Sea package,” which takes you on full-fledged journey beginning with a boat cruise up the Dora Canal. You then take flight to some gorgeous views, returning via an authentic steam-engine locomotive. Jones Brothers Co. is in the business of making any day exceptional, book a

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tour by calling 352.508.1800. or checking jb.seaplanes@gmail. com. There’s also Beaver Air Tours based in Mount Dora that flies November to May. Call 218.682.2006. The next set of activities are made for the real thrill seekers. If you’re feeling intrepid you can glide or dive your way through our skies. Quest Air in Groveland offers Hang Gliding at their self-proclaimed “Florida’s Extreme sport Paradise,” a 170-acre property complete with pool, hot tub and tiki bar for post flight relaxation. And for the Fearless there is FreeFlight in Coleman, a private airport that will take you up 5,000 feet and let you fall. But if sky diving isn’t your thing, take a hot air balloon ride with Florida Balloon Adventures based in Mount Dora. Take a cue from the storybooks and join Captain Bill Whidden, a certified ballooner with over 2,800 hours logged, for some pure magic. For more Information, call: Quest air—352.429.0213. FreeFlight Airport—352.748.6629. Florida Balloon Adventures—407.414.7451.

IN THE GAME IN OUR SMALLER BUT ACTIVE COMMUNITIES, SPORTS TAKE PRECEDENCE. WE MAY NOT HOST MAJOR LEAGUE TEAMS HERE, BUT WE ARE STILL PROUD FANATICS. PARTS OF LAKE AND SUMTER HAVE BECOME A HUB FOR TRAINING AND COMPETITIONS, AND LOCAL PROGRAMS TURN OUT CHAMPIONS. THE AREA IS FILLED WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES, COMMUNITY PROGRAMS, AS WELL AS PROFESSIONAL AND AMATEUR ATHLETES OF ALL LEVELS SEEKING HEALTHY COMPETITION.

CITY G U I DE denia Parks (Fruitland Park) are, but Tavares Skate Park is a complete facility. A highly urban centered sport, areas for practice and performance are limited in our area. But as the community expands and develops, however, so will the need for such complexes. So it is good news that locals

do not have to trek south to Orlando, or North to Ocala to get in their kick-push.

COYOTE MUD BOG For a complete off-road experience, this Astatula park offers four motor cross courses, ATV/UTV trails, and a 400x600 mud pit.

Open every weekend from Friday 9a.m. to Sunday 6p.m., it is a separate fee to run each course, but most spectator activities are free.

CLERMONT ARTS AND RECREATION CENTER 69,000-square-foot complex with an air conditioned gym

HICKORY POINT SPORT COMPLEX

FACILITIES HICKORY POINT BEACH This recent addition to the Hickory Point Sport Complex in Tavares is Florida’s largest permanent volleyball complex, featuring 21 professional sand volleyball courts. It was built to make Lake County a destination for professional volleyball, but courts are open to locals too.

TAVARES SKATE PARK 12,000 square feet of concrete dedicated to skateboard and inline skating makes the Tavares Skate Park, located within the Woodlea Sports Complex, more than a resource. It’s a destination! Few parks in the area have designated areas for skating, Lake David (Groveland), Lake Pan (Lake Panasoffkee), and Gar-

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CITY G U I DE that is a go-to for organized sports and pick-up games. In addition, the large pool and two wading pools are big attractions. The facility includes Lake County’s largest performance center, a 230-seat theatre.

CLERMONT’S WATERFRONT PARK Among the various other activities the park fosters, more and more athletes are using the fitness trail that extends for 30 miles. There is also a 10-mile clay trail in the park. It is filled with runners because of its softer surface.

THE BIG HOUSE This Tavares landmark is the envy of all facilities; it was created to ensure opportunity is given to the area’s youth but welcomes athletes of all ages. This sizable building houses 9 basketball

courts, 16 volleyball courts, 14 outdoor beach volleyball courts, a concession area that doubles as a teaching kitchen, detail and pro shops, a game room, as well as a Health & Wellness center. The Big House is geared toward making a place for the community. They host various sports events and competitions throughout the year. The space is used regularly as a sports training space for local programs, but it can also be rented out.

• Outdoor heated pool • Aquatic programs • 5 grass fields for baseball and softball (4 lighted) • Under-roof batting cages • Concession stand

• Weight-loss programs • Classrooms for film review and pregame meetings • Locker rooms with showers • Sports performance staff

NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER In 2001, the facility had two group fitness studios, an aquatic center, athletic fields, and a lab for sports performance testing. Today the NTC is what many would consider futuristic athletic training. Few places in the country have the elite equipment, facilities, and training personnel under one roof that NTC has: • Olympic lifting platforms • Selectorized, plate-loaded strength equipment • Zumba, Schwinn cycling, Yoga, Pilates, and TRX fitness classes • Outpatient rehabilitation • General strength classes • 400-meter synthetic track • Long jump & triple jump runways • Pole vault runways • Javelin runways • Shot Put/Discus/ Hammer Cages • 70-meter x 25-yard pool with 27 lanes

GOLF There are a lot of places to swing locally. Of the 1,153 square miles that make up Lake County, roughly 99 miles are fairways and greens. And as the Villages expand, so will the number of courses in Lake and Sumter, as each new community brings with it their own course. This ensures that there is variety and luxury at your fingertips. Here’s a snapshot of places to play:

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MISSION INN RESORT & CLUB - EL CAMPEON

HARBOR HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

6,923 yards, par 72. Rating: 74.2 with slope of 135 10400 County Road 48 Howey-in-the-Hills missioninnresort.com

6,910 yards, par 72. Rating: 72.5 with slope of 126 6583 Lake Griffin Road, Lady Lake harborhills.com

LAKES OF LADY LAKE 4,174 yards, par 63. Rating: 59.3 with slope of 96 503 Canopy Lane, Lady Lake 352.750.4474

LAKE COUNTY HAS ROUGHLY 99 MILES OF FAIRWAYS AND GREENS

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MISSION INN RESORT & CLUB - LAS COLINAS 6,867 yards, par 72. Rating: 73.3 with slope of 132 10400 County Road 48, Howey-in-the-Hills missioninnresort.com

ORANGE BLOSSOM HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 6,095 yards, par 72. Rating: 69.1 with slope of 117 Water Tower Circle, The Villages golfthevillages.com 352.753.5200

MONARCH AT ROYAL HIGHLANDS

WATER OAK COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES

THE CLUB AT PENNBROOKE FAIRWAYS

5,944 yards, par 72. Rating: 68.4 with slope of 117 605 Hickory, Lady Lake wateroakcountryclub.com

32900 Countryside Blvd., Leesburg pennbrooke.org

CENTRAL LAKE ARLINGTON RIDGE GOLF CLUB 4,877 yards from front tees, 6,610 from back tees. Rating: 71.2 with slope of 117 4463 Arlington Ridge Blvd., Leesburg arlingtonridgegolfclub.com

6,018 yards, par 72. Rating: 68.9 with slope of 119 5325 Saint Andrews, Leesburg monarchgolf club

PLANTATION AT LEESBURG - CRANES ROOST 6,005 yards, par 71. Rating: 68.0 with slope of 118 4720 Plantation Blvd., Leesburg plantationleesburggolf.com

Nancy Muenzmay DIRECTOR, LAKE COUNTY UNTY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY NITY CENTER

SandiMoore

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, R, LEESBURG AREA CHAMBER AMBER OF COMMERCE

“We love Lake because it provides the opportunity to achieve our professional goal, which is to work jointly to bring business and education together.”

The Business Opportunity ortunity Center and the Leesburg Area Chamber hamber of Commerce have formed a partnership rship with the goal to unite the business and d education communities together to support one ne another, to mutually benefit residents and business. In order for us to excel xcel as a community, we have to start acting like ke a community again. When the community y is cohesive, our county is healthy, then our businesses usinesses will prosper. Partnerships between en organizations, businesses, churches, and schools have contributed to the success cess of any local initiative. The Health Sciences Collegiate Academy, for example, le, happened in South Lake because a school ol board member, a hospital and a chamber er worked together.

LAKE COUNTY NTY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY UNITY CENTER 315 W. Main Street, Suite 233 , Tavares, s, FL 32778 352.742.3918 742.3918 businessinlakefl sinlakefl.com LEESBURG AREA CHAMBER AMBER OF COMMERCE 103 S. 6th Street,, Leesburg, FL 34749 352.787.2131 787.2131 leesburgchamber.com chamber.com

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THE ALLURE OF ART, INDOOR ACTIVITIES, AND OUTDOOR FESTIVALS IN LAKE COUNTY IS AS STRONG TO SOME AS THE PULL OF THE WATER IS TO OTHERS. Enjoyment in Lake County is found in a variety of ways. Lake County appeals not only to outdoor sensibilities, but to cultural ones as well. Local cuisine, art, and lifestyle are so impressive there is an array of popular festivals to gather everyone in one place and celebrate. The concept is so prevalent, Mount Dora took on the slogan, “The Festival City.” In this section, we explore and examine the different cultural attractions: art, indoor attractions, and finally, the festivals that almost define our cultural way of life.

PLACE OF ART For an area known for outdoor fun, Lake County has plenty to offer those who enjoy visual and performance arts. Venues throughout the county provide exhibitions of esteemed fine art and performance, but promote and support the work and education of local and regional artists. Here is a detailed look at the local art scene:

MODERNISM MUSEUM MOUNT DORA 145 East Fourth Ave., Mount Dora 352.385.0034 modernismmuseum.org

Art deco modernist furniture design is at the forefront

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of visionary expressionism in the visual arts. How fortunate to have a museum dedicated to the genre here in Lake County of the same caliber as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rein, Germany, and Les Arts Décoratif in Paris, France —the new Modernism Museum Mount Dora.

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WENDELL CASTLE

The museum’s new exhibit, Esherick to Nagashima, adds George Nagashima, an internationally acclaimed woodworker honored by the American Institute of Architects in October 2015. A series of work by esteemed artists Sam Maloof, Arthur Espenet Carpenter, and Albert Paley displays their influences and individual styles later. The Modernism Museum has resonated with artists and art aficionados since opening in October 2013. Visitors arrived en masse for the premier exhibit: Wharton to Wendell, a celebration of pioneering icons Wharton Esherick and Wendell Castle. The Modernism Museum features usable art like the one-of-a-kind Steinway piano designed by Castle, known as “The Calgari.” The whimsical piano is still a musical instrument. A few times a year, the museum’s gallery is transformed into a mini concert hall for intimate evenings of jazz. Castle created unique pieces like the Calgari piano for more than five decades, consistently challenging the traditional boundaries of functional design and establishing himself as the Father of the American Studio Art Movement. Fortunately, many of the Wharton to Wendell works will remain in the gallery as part of the permanent collection. Known for many years as a quaint antique town, Mount Dora has morphed through the years as a fine

arts and crafts community. As such, more galleries are opening all the time. Several artists have studios. The transition has many local supporters, like Juliette Davis, director of the Modernism Museum. Davis emphasizes the museum’s commitment to highlight fine art and provide an educational map as well for fine art patrons that live in Mount Dora, in addition to attracting international fine art aficionados to the area. “Our intent is to reinforce what Mount Dora is all about, and support the transition into an art community through the integrity of the museum and the art pieces on display,” Davis said. “We all need to get behind what Mount Dora is trying to establish—what it wants to transition to in addition to an antiques town—as a genuine fine arts destination.” This unique museum exists due to the hard work and dedication of a team of people, museum sponsor Main Street Leasing; an anonymous private collector who donated the collection; and by the museum’s distinctive board: John Sollo, David Rago, and Suzanne Perrault, all three authorities on 20th century decorative arts and furnishings. They are also appraisers for the television show “Antiques Roadshow”; Paul Eisenhauer, curator of the Wharton Esherick Museum; and Robert “Bob” Aibel, founder and owner of the Moderne Gallery in Philadelphia. Many of them will be available for a Meet & Greet at

the October 2 premier of the new exhibit.

MOUNT DORA CENTER FOR THE ARTS 138 East Fifth Ave., Mount Dora 352.383.0880 mountdoracenterforthearts.org

Mount Dora captured the national spotlight as a genuine arts destination through the Mount Dora Center for the Arts signature event: the Fine Arts Festival held annually during the first week of February. The combination of New England architecture of downtown Mount Dora and breathtaking views of Lake Dora serve as the ideal backdrop for the scenic event, which just celebrated its 40th year. The festival consists of endless rows of various fine art mediums: oil paintings, watercolors, acrylics, clay, sculpture, and photography and local and regional musicians dotting the canvas from each end to center stage at Donnelly Park. According to Beth Miller, executive co-chair of Mount Dora Center, the festival boasts 285 participating artists and 300,000 annual visitors. Listed in the top 100 festivals in the nation by Sunshine Artists, it is among the top 20 for Central Florida. “The festival is the cornerstone of the organization,” she said. Mount Dora Center serves an important role for the blossoming fine arts community. The oldest art center in the county offers educational programs, exhibits, and a seven-week summer

camp for children, many on scholarship. “One of the most important things we do is offer programs geared to children,” Miller said. “Having that creative art outlet is important for a child’s development, their form of expression.” The center’s co-op system is also distinctive. Local artists can rent space to exhibit and sell their work in a building owned by the center, separate from the gallery. The center hosts six to eight exhibits per year, in addition to exhibits for members. Exhibits for this fall include “Expressions in Pastel” by the Pastel Society of Central Florida, November 2-14, and “Mount Dora in the Fall” November 20-December 23.

LAKE EUSTIS MUSEUM OF ART 1 West Orange Ave., Eustis 352.483.2900 Lakeeustisartmuseum.org

Founded 20 years ago, the Lake Eustis Museum of Art mission remains “dedicated to the exhibition and collection of fine art and the presentation of

museum-quality art education programming to enrich culture and enhance the economic development of our diverse community.” Simply put, it is the first dedicated art museum in Lake County. “Strictly visual arts, as opposed to performance art or other art activity, meaning: painting, sculpture, drawing, and print making,” specified Executive Director Richard Colvin. In 1995, a group of like-minded individuals created a center designed for art activities for the Eustis area. One year later, they decided the center should become a museum. So it is structured like an art center, but is designated as a museum due to the permanent collection and efforts toward the preservation of art. In carrying out its primary mission, the exhibition of museum quality art, with an emphasis on contemporary art, Lake Eustis presents six to eight exhibits per year by local, regional, or historic artists. The current exhibit includes “Dwelling Places: Robin Maria Pedrero, on exhibit until October 31. According to Lake Eustis Museum of Art, Pedrero

CITY G U I DE paints “the spirit and energy of life in rhythmic layers of color.” The Pedrero exhibit is immediately followed by “Cynthia Edmonds: Travels.” Lake Eustis provides art classes for adults and is in the process of developing classes for children. Instruction in oil, acrylic, and water color painting as well as drawing is offered, with the emphasis on the basics of art.

LEESBURG CENTER FOR THE ARTS 429 West Magnolia St., Leesburg 352.365.0232 Leesburgcenter4arts.com

Having established partnerships, collaborations and involvement all over town and the county, the Leesburg Center for the Arts takes its role as a center literally. It is the central focal point of the arts community. The center has a partnership with the county for the Wings of Wildfire Festival, displaying paintings of native birds, flora, and fauna by the Pastel Society of Central Florida. And the Leesburg Center has become home base for local arts groups like: The Pastel Society of Central Florida, The Leesburg Arts Association, The River One Flute Circle, the Melon Patch Players, and many more. “We are the cultural hub of the community,” said Amy Painter, executive director of the Leesburg Center for the Arts. “Our purpose and design was part of the revitalization of downtown Leesburg. We offer

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everything from arts education—from age 4 to 104—to cultural community events, like the Leesburg Arts Festival and Song Writer’s Night. We want to be a gathering place where artists, artisans, musicians, and appreciative audiences can connect with one another.” The Leesburg Arts Festival (held the second weekend in March) is the center’s signature event. The juried art festival attracts about a hundred artisans from all over the country and Canada. The festival is alive with entertainment, interactive kids art projects, food vendors, and literary arts. Of course, like all other art centers, Leesburg offers gallery exhibits. It hosts six to eight exhibits per year of local and regional artists. Exhibits also represent groups like The Leesburg Art Association or the Pastel Society of Central Florida. The center provides exceptional programs, like the Rotary Summer Art Institute—the largest education based event in the county. The Institute offers a full summer schedule of mostly visual art activities, with one-week camps per age group for kids age 4–18, divided by preschool, grammar school, middle school, and high school. “The goal of our programs is to fill niches that aren’t already available in the area,” Painter said. “Rock Band camp, for instance, is a niche Leesburg Center can and does fill, because it is desired and not found elsewhere.”

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The Artist Way, a national program for adults, is another good example. It is designed to show laypersons the life of an artist: how to juggle the challenges of life and still maintain creativity in the midst of running the business side of artwork. The Artist Way meets March through May, and culminates with an exhibit. The Center even offers a Culinary Arts Program, done monthly with different themes.

MELON PATCH PLAYERS 311 North 13th St., Leesburg 352.787.3013 melonpatchplayers.com

The Melon Patch Players are doing for local performing arts what the Modernism Museum and the three countywide art centers are doing for the visual and fine arts—bringing top-caliber material to Lake County. There’s nothing mediocre about the material; the Players present red-hot, edgy Broadway Tony winners like “Vanya and Sasha and Masha and Spike” and “The Last Night of Ballyhoo.” “They are in their 60-something season,”

Painter said. Sixty-third season, in fact. The first production of “Father of the Bride” occurred in 1951. “It is the longest consecutively run community theater in central Florida,” said J. Scott Berry, president of the Melon Patch Theater. The longevity and experience of the theater group allows them to be experimental and edgy with their scheduled performances. Offering six shows per year—three

musical and three non-musical—the list runs the gamut from big Broadway hits like “The Sound of Music” and “The Music Man” to cutting edge shows like “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks.” Melon Patch is obviously not afraid to take risks. “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” dealt with growing old, death, being gay, AIDS, and abortion. Somber topics, yet told in a hysterically funny way. Audiences loved it. “We are doing a better mix of contemporary plays with family-friendly theater,” Berry said. And audiences are responding favorably to the mix.

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CITY G U I DE Melon Patch also offers unique programming and Berry encourages you to take advantage. The noteworthy Patchwork Productions Kids Program introduces students from elementary through high school to the fundamentals of theater with instruction on acting, singing, and dancing, twice a week. The class culminates with annual summer and fall shows.

BAY STREET PLAYERS AT THE HISTORIC STATE THEATRE 109 North Bay St., Eustis 352.257.7777 baystreetplayers.org

The Bay Street Players continue to thrill audiences while providing outstanding educational opportunities at the Historic State Theatre. Classes in acting, set production, costuming, and front house management are available to anyone interested. “We offer opportunities for people to learn skills in both the creative and business sides of theater,” said Margo Slaby, theatre

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operations manager. That important combination has surely contributed to the theatre’s long history and visible presence in Eustis. Built in 1916, the State Theatre began as a venue for vaudeville, then cinema. After nearly 60 years, the theater closed. It sat empty until 1975, when a small group of theatre buffs discovered the vacant theatre and envisioned the return of live performances. Through hard work, the building was restored and the Bay Street Players were born. The first production was “Hello Dolly.” The Bay Street Players commemorated their 40th anniversary with a reproduction of “Hello Dolly” this past summer.

MOONLIGHT PLAYERS WAREHOUSE THEATRE 735 West Minneola Ave., Clermont 352.319.1116 moonlightplayers.com

The Moonlight Players are also celebrating an anniversary this year—their 20th. To honor the milestone, Moonlight Players are doing what they do best: productions that entertain. The Moonlight Players Warehouse Theatre is also home to a youth improv group called “The Moonlight Lunatics.” The improvisational performance art troupe serves as an outreach program to community teens aged 13-18 to introduce teens to the performing arts.

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SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE

SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE 1100 North Unser St., Mount Dora 352.383.4616 Icehousetheatre.com

The longest continuously running Lake County’s theater group is the Sonnentag Theatre, now in its 67th season. The Icehouse has a youth theater group called, appropriately, Icehouse Youth Theatre. The kids have two fall performances scheduled, both in October. “Frozen,” based on the widely popular

Disney film, will be performed by small children, ages 5 to 8. The theater promises “singing, dancing, silliness and more” as the children act out the story of sisters Anna and Elsa and their friends. “Insomnia” will explore scary stories set to dark, chilling music in an original performance piece acted out by preteen and teens ages 10 to 18, using musical theater, puppetry, acting, dance, and more.

THE GREAT INDOORS IN ADDITION TO MUSEUMS, MANY OTHER INDOOR ACTIVITIES ARE FOUND YEAR-ROUND, THAT APPEAL TO OUR SENSES OF WONDER, HISTORY, COMFORT, AND EVEN THRILLS UNLIKE ANY OTHER, SUCH AS THE INDOOR TRAMPOLINE, GLOW-BALL MINI-GOLF, AND LASER TAG. THE ATTRACTIONS RANGE FROM SLOW TO FAST AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. FROM FARMING TRACTORS TO CLASSIC SPEEDSTERS. FROM LAID BACK SPA TREATMENT TO FAST-PACED ARCADE GAMES. THESE INDOOR ATTRACTIONS ARE NOT ONLY EDUCATIONAL AND ENTERTAINING, BUT AN AFFORDABLE WAY TO SPEND THE DAY.

PINK IT UP IS GOING

DOWN SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 FERRAN PARK Eustis, FL 32726 Registration & packet pick-up: 6:00 – 7:00 a.m. Race start: 7:30 a.m. Awards ceremony: 8:45 a.m.

Join the Florida Hospital Waterman Pink Army in the ﬁght against breast cancer. Proceeds help promote breast cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment including mammograms for women in need. Support the Pink Army by putting your foot down in our certiﬁed run/walk.

ENTRY FEES: Youth 17 and under: $20 Adults 18 and over: $25 Day of Race (check/cash only): $30

Sign-up by visiting FHWaterman.com.

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For details, call (352) 253-3388.

JoinThePinkArmy.com

“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with 33 years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers. Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death. “In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.” “When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him. Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.” While prescribing medications for BPH can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly

evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, office-based therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy. One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than 30 minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radio frequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 2,400 patients with this procedure. “Medtronic is a $13 billion-a-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!” And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than 20 years)

you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.” So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out. “Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it,” he says.

JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D. Board Certified Urologist Practicing in Lake County for over 33 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems. For more information, contact

PHYSICIANS FOR ACCOUNTABLE CARE 920 Rolling Acres Road, Suite 201 Lady Lake, FL 32159

352.751.4990 801 Northshore Drive, Eustis, FL 32726

352.357.6786

ProstateEvaluation.com

CITY G U I DE MOUNT DORA HISTORY MUSEUM

CLERMONT HERB SHOPPE & DAY SPA

450 Royellou Lane, Mount Dora 352.383.0006 mountdorahistorymuseum.com

702 W. Montrose St., Clermont 352.243.3588 clermontherbshoppe.com

You’ll find preserved artifacts from the 1880s to the 1930s when you visit the first firehouse and city jail in historic Mount Dora. Gain a sense of the trials and triumphs of those who lived during that time from maps and photos of trains entering the city, postal relics, a ballot box from the first mayoral election, and an early 1900s hand-drawn fire hose cart. Numerous artifacts depict typical home life, schooling, citrus farming, clothing, guns, and air rifles. Original artwork hangs in restored jail cells. This is the place for you if you love history and relics.

All this activity requires some downtime. The Clermont Herb Shoppe & Day Spa, family owned and located in downtown historic Clermont, is just the place to relax and replenish. From the moment you walk through the door, you will be swept away with fresh scents of essential oils wafting through the air. The Herb Shoppe is in its 16th year of offering high-quality natural health and beauty products and a calming spa. Some of a vast array of options: therapeutic spa treatments, including massages, body treatments, facials, lymphatic drainage, reflexology and detox foot baths, will surely hit the spot. They also offer organic, vegan, and gluten-free foods, supplements, skin care, educational classes, and more. You will be pleasantly delighted.

SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK 2510 South U.S. Hwy 27, Clermont 352.404.4134 skyzone.com/clermont

This indoor trampoline park may seem like a kids-only zone, but it is big fun for all ages. Sky Zone consists of wall-to-wall trampolines and the fun is almost limitless. Jump, flip, fly, bounce, and twirl to your heart’s content. There are a variety of activities, including Open Jump, Ultimate Dodgeball, Toddler Time, Jumpapalooza, SkyRobics, and more. As an added bonus, you can skip your workout for the day.

Tractor Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the International Harvester farming and construction equipment. Find fully restored Farmall tractors for a country mile. Explore other vintage farm equipment, such as combines, cotton pickers, refrigerators, and more as you make your way through three large tractor barns. Tour a replica 1940s International Harvester dealership, fully stocked with parts, equipment, and tools. Friendly and helpful guides ensure this is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

LAKE SQUARE LASER TAG AND PUTT PUTT GOLF 10837 Hwy. 441, Unit # 2, Leesburg 352.742.4569 indoorputtputt.com lakesquarelasertag.com

This indoor glow-in-thedark miniature golf and laser

tag facility is a great place for all ages to show off their skills. In addition, you can play air hockey, pool and arcade games. This unique atmosphere encourages good, old-fashioned fun and friendly interaction with others. Enjoy all of this under black light. Don’t forget to wear white or neon colors.

EUSTIS HISTORIC MUSEUM (THE CLIFFORD HOUSE) 536 N Bay St, Eustis 352.483.0046 eustishistoricalmuseum.org

The museum itself has historical significance. G.D. Clifford established the Clifford General Store and began the first mail service for the new settlement that would become Eustis. His private residence, the Clifford House on Bay Street, became the home for the

PAQUETTE’S HISTORICAL FARMALL TRACTOR MUSEUM 615 S. Whitney Road, Leesburg 352.728.3588 stewsihstuff.com

Beautifully located on a 50-acre buffalo ranch and ranked Leesburg’s No. 1 attraction by Trip Advisor, the Paquette’s Historical Farmall

EUSTIS HISTORIC MUSEUM (THE CLIFFORD HOUSE)

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CITY G U I DE

GETFESTIVE WARM CLIMATE WITH COOL BREEZES, HISTORIC DOWNTOWNS, ROLLING HILLS AND TRAILS AND PLENTIFUL SITES FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION MAKE LAKE COUNTY IDEAL FOR FESTIVALS THAT PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENRICHMENT, COMMUNITY BUILDING, AND JUST PLAIN FUN. TOO MANY TO LIST, HERE’S A LOOK AT SOME EVENTS YOU’LL WANT TO PLACE ON YOUR CALENDAR. Eustis Historical Museum and Preservation Society in 1893. The neo-classic house is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Eustis Historical Museum features the “Indiana Jones Room” dedicated to the memory of Dr. Edgar James Banks (May 23, 1866 – May 5, 1945): an American diplomat, antiquarian, archeologist, and novelist who discovered Eustis in 1921 and retired here. Banks is most famous for climbing Mount Ararat in search of Noah’s Ark, and he is believed by many to be the inspiration for the Indiana Jones movie character.

LEESBURG HERITAGE MUSEUM 111 South Sixth Street, Leesburg 352.435.9424 leesburgheritagesociety.com

A historian’s dream, this museum is a treasure trove of Leesburg’s past. Artifacts, memorabilia and extensive archives tell the detailed story of Leesburg, including city government, business development, families, churches, and social associations.

MOUNT DORA MUSEUM OF SPEED 206 N. Highland St., Mount Dora 352.385.0049 classicdreamcars.com

Voted Mount Dora’s top attraction two years in a row, the Mount Dora Museum of Speed boasts a vintage collection to send you down memory lane. As you would expect, vintage American and European muscle cars adorn this small museum, but what you don’t expect will surprise you. The museum has 45-plus years of auto memorabilia, including a 1948 Full Midget Race car by Floyd Trevis, vintage clothing, road signs, WWI and WWII uniforms and famously autographed instruments from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Aerosmith, Ozzy Ozbourne, Montgomery & Gentry, Bon Jovi, The Rolling Stones, and other greats.

4TH ANNUAL WINGS AND WILDFLOWERS FESTIVAL Venetian Gardens, Leesburg October 2-4 Free. Some events available for a fee. wingsandwildflowers.com

Devout birders and budding ornithologists rejoice! The Wings and Wildflowers festival is a mecca for bird lovers. Find everything from talks with expert naturalists, bird photography lessons, and trips to some of Lake County’s prime birding spots. This festival is a great place to start for those looking to get into the “birding scene” in Lake County. Find excellent resources on the best parks and preserves, what species to look for, and conservation organizations working to protect the vibrant biodiversity here in central Florida.

41ST ANNUAL MOUNT DORA BICYCLE FESTIVAL Downtown Mount Dora October 9-11 Free mountdorabicyclefestival.com

With rolling hills and an active community of resident riders, Mount Dora is a natural location for the bicycle festival. Thousands of cyclists gather here to participate in rides all around central Florida. With varying degrees of distance and difficulty offered, everyone can find an exciting ride and a passionate group to roll with. Vendors selling cycling gear, handmade crafts and a wide variety of food will fill the streets. The website contains information on planned rides and other information.

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The Villages Premier Board Certified Plastic Surgery Group

MEMBER OF American Society of Plastic Surgeons

MEMBER OF American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Our practice is dedicated

to providing exceptional plastic surgery and achieving a beautiful, natural-looking result for our patients. We s strive to combine surgical expertise, artistic vision, and outstanding service to st make your visit with us a positive, rewarding experience. We offer a complete m range of modern procedures that include non-surgical and surgical techniques. ra Each of our surgeons is board certiﬁed in plastic surgery. They are all fully E trained and experienced in cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery and reconstructive tr surgery. Our surgeons are always on site and are directors of our medi-spa s and ancillary procedures. a In addition, we have registered nurses assisting the physicians with your care. This cadre of dedicated professionals ensures that all your questions are answered T and that your experience is personal and complete to your satisfaction. a

S So, if you are seeking a more youthful face, enlarging your b breasts, a ﬂattering ﬁgure, the solution to a problem area, or guidance to help beautify and rejuvenate your skin, our practice g ccan help you achieve your goals.

GET TO KNOW OUR

7dVgY 8Zgi^ÝZY EaVhi^X Hjg\Zdch

James Rogers DMD, MD

Navinderdeep Nijher MD

Leonik Ahumada MD

Dr. Rogers is a native Floridian. He is a graduate of Emory University, and completed his dental and medical degrees from the University of Florida. He trained in surgery at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, and completed his plastic surgical training at Tulane University and Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans. Dr. Rogers is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and has performed Cosmetic and Reconstructive Procedures in Ocala for over twenty years. He is one of the most experienced surgeons in Central Florida.

Dr. Nijher is a native New Yorker who now resides in Ocala with his wife who is a pediatrician. He completed his plastic surgery training at the prestigious New York Hospital of Cornell and Columbia Universities and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He provides the latest cutting edge techniques in minimal scar surgery of the breast, face, forehead, and eyes. He also specializes in all facets of body sculpting including but not limited to liposuction, abdominoplasty, and post bariatric body contouring. Dr.Nijher lectures extensively trying to educate patients on plastic surgery and has subsequently become one of the most sought out plastic surgeons in Central Florida.

Dr. Ahumada specializes in cosmetic and plastic surgery. He is trained in the latest plastic surgical techniques of the face, eyelids, breast and body with emphasis on minimal scarring. This includes non surgical (ﬁllers,botox,fat grafts,sclerotherapy) and surgical procedures (facelift, eyelids, nose, breast,tummy tucks,liposuction). He graduated from Harvard with a degree in biochemistry and completed medical school at the University of Miami. He was awarded many honors while completing Plastic Surgery training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has authored and co-authored papers in plastic surgery. He prefers a personal approach to his patients and will listen to your concerns when suggesting procedures. Dr Ahumada’s family is from South America; in addition to English he is also ﬂuent in Spanish and has an international clientele. He is married and father to three girls; when not seeing patients he enjoys time with his family.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW LOOK IN THE VILLAGES! VILLAGES PLASTIC SURGERY HAS MOVED TO OUR NEW LOCATION IN THE DANA CENTER! WE ARE NOW CONVENIENTLY LOCATED JUST OFF THE VILLAGES GOLF CART PATH.

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DANA CENTER 11950 CR 101, SUITE 205, THE VILLAGES, FL 32162

CITY G U I DE 16TH ANNUAL FLORIDA BLACK BEAR AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FESTIVAL Cadwell Park, Umatilla October 10 Free myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/ bear/festival

The Florida Black Bear and Wildlife Conservation Festival is a fun and educational event that increases awareness and promotes safety. Partners include the US Forest Service, Fish & Game Commission, and Defenders of Wildlife, along with Lake County/City of Umatilla Chamber of Commerce. It is a unique wildlife-centered festival in the southeast. The focus is on education: how to co-exist and preserve the eco-system that is so important for the livelihood of local business, while educating people on migration habits, preserving a wildlife habitat.

17TH ANNUAL LAKE COUNTY FOLK FESTIVAL Downtown Eustis October 10-11 Free lakecountyfolkfest.org

Join folk lovers from all over the state who gather to hear talented musicians play at various venues throughout downtown Eustis. Sponsored by the Lake Eustis Institute Public Art & Music Committee, the Lake County Folk Festival is “considered one of the top five acoustic music festivals in Florida,” said Miranda Burrows, public relations, City of Eustis. It is also “one of the longest running free festivals in the state, and we plan to keep it

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that way,” said Jeff Friberg, who founded the event. “It fills the whole town with music and a sense of camaraderie.” Check out the festival website for up-todate information on venues, participating musicians, or an application to perform.

BUSHNELL FALL FESTIVAL Downtown Bushnell October 18 Free cityofbushnellfl.com

A time-honored, county favorite, the Fall Festival in downtown Bushnell celebrates the anniversary of the City of Bushnell. It offers all your festival favorites: a variety of local arts and crafts vendors, fundraisers, and exhibits; rides and activities for children; wholesome entertainment all day long; a “Greased Pig” contest; plus, a morning parade, early evening Street Dance, and a nighttime fireworks display caps off the event. That’s how you celebrate a city birthday party.

31ST ANNUAL MOUNT DORA CRAFT FAIR Downtown Mount Dora October 24-25 Free mountdoracraftfair.com

Ideally timed for holiday shopping, this immensely popular event lets festivalgoers peruse unique and local wares while meeting talented artists. Exhibitors lining the streets showcase an unparalleled expression of creativity and craftsmanship. Also, enjoy a delicious

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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER CREMATION? Oftentimes loved ones clearly relay their desire to be cremated; unfortunately many never consider what will happen to their cremated remains when they are returned to their loved ones. Quite often family members wrestle with what to do because this important discussion of what to do after the cremation has never taken place. Many times spouses choose to take the urn home with them. Sometimes spouses struggle with scattering cremated remains because their grief compels them to “hold on” and not to “let go”.

(There are also many laws and ordinances prohibiting scattering cremated remains on public grounds and waterways.) Another common issue many families encounter occurs years later when a loved one’s urn has been taken home. Quite often the spouse or family member entrusted with the care of the urn may pass away and then families struggle with what to do with two urns. Unfortunately our staff members at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Leesburg and Lakeside Memory Gardens in Eustis are confronted

with these types of issues quite regularly. Many are not aware that our cemeteries offer many affordable options that provide a safe and permanent place that will allow families to place a loved one’s cremated remains. A Personal Columbarium such as the one pictured can be designed to accommodate single or double urns and slightly larger versions can provide alternatives for larger families. Our Columbariums are available in a large variety of styles and granite color options, and one of the most important features is that they are transportable if the need should arise due to relocation. If you have not had a conversation concerning “After the Cremation” please explore this

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

topic with your loved one(s). The Columbarium discussed is one of dozens of options for cremation that we offer at our cemeteries. We offer financing options and have options for every budget. Call or stop by today and let us help you find a personal cremation option that fits your needs and desires. ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION HILLCREST MEMORIAL GARDENS

352.854.0681 1901C. R. 25A Leesburg, Florida 34748 www.HillcrestMemGard.com

AND LAKESIDE MEMORY GARDENS

352.357.3404 36601 C. R. 19A Eustis, Florida 32726 www.LakesideMemory.com

JOIN US FOR THE 2015

icewalk

Make your

Beneﬁting The American Heart Association and H.T.F. Mission Trip

Saturday • November 14th • 2015 The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence • 4730 SE 49th Rd, Ocala Registration at 8:00am - Walk steps oﬀ at 9:00am

puticeonit.com For more information, call 352.854.0681 Like us on Facebook

Our 4th annual (ice)walk is sure to get you moving. Come lace up your sneakers and join in on the fun with us beneﬁting the American Heart Association including vendor exhibits, food and refreshments, and more! Sponsors

PROUD SPONSOR OF MARION COUNTY 2015

WELCOME Nishit

Choksi MD, FACC

We are very excited to welcome Dr. Choksi tto the family. He adds new dimensions to our e excellent range of services with over 20 years as an interventional cardiologist. Dr. Choksi has as a ac ccu accumulated numerous patents, research grants a honors in his much-lauded career. We are an and honored to have a physician of Dr. Choksi’s caliber on our team to care for our patients.

PHONE 352.854.0681 FAX 352.854.8031 OCALA 4730 SW 49th Rd OCALA 3515 SE 17th St Ste 100 TAVARES 2754 Dora Ave SUMMERFIELD 10435 SE 170th Pl WILLISTON 412 W Noble Ave THE VILLAGES 1050 Old Camp Rd THE VILLAGES 1950 Laurel Manor Dr, Bldg 240

CITY G U I DE selection of festival foods, from organic smoothies to mouth-watering BBQ.

LEESBURG CRAFT BEER, WINE AND FOOD FEST Venetian Gardens, Leesburg November 20 $25 per person leesburgcraftbeerfest.com

Vintage Race Boat Circuit with more than 75 vintage and classic flat bottoms, speedsters, outboards, gold cuppers, and hydros of all sizes from bygone eras entertain spectators at Wooton Park, Lake Dora.

41ST ANNUAL MOUNT DORA ARTS FESTIVAL Downtown Mount Dora February 6-7, 2016 Free mountdoracenterforthearts.org

A colorful, popular event that encourages revelers to travel station to station at the Islands of Venetian Gardens sampling any of their 25 different craft beers or wines from around the world, plus a variety of food from the region’s best restaurants as while enjoying live music. It doesn’t get much more festive than that.

TAVARES FALL THUNDER RACE BOAT REGATTA Wooton Park, Tavares November 13-15 Free on Friday. $5 over the weekend classicraceboatassoc.com

Thanks to the sponsorship of the Classic Race Boat Association, Tavares is now a major stop on the Florida

The festival’s wide selection of fine art and gourmet foods will impress even the most discerning art collector—285 artists present their talents to more than 250,000 expected attendees. The charming, Victorian architecture and welcoming atmosphere of downtown Mount Dora make it a great place to appreciate the variety of artwork. SUNNYLAND ANTIQUE BOAT FESTIVAL MOUNT DORA ARTS FESTIVAL

THE VILLAGES 7TH ANNUAL LAKE SUMTER ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages February 20-21, 2016 artfestival.com/Festivals/The_Villages_ Craft_Festival_February.aspx

One of the fastest growing places to live hosts one of the fastest growing arts & crafts festivals in the state. In its seventh year, the Lake Sumter Art and Craft Festival features unique talented crafters among charming musicians and street performers. Items include handcrafted leather goods, sculpture, paintings, photography, glasswork, woodwork, and metalwork.

CITY G U I DE throw a party worthy of a president. “People dress as George Washington, which is lots of fun,” said Christie Bobbit, executive director of Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce. Friday night, enjoy a variety of carnival rides and live music downtown. On Saturday morning, local clubs and organizations display their patriotic spirit in the grand parade. This is one of Lake County’s largest festivals, attracting 80,000 visitors annually.

CENTRAL FLORIDA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Wooton Park, Tavares April 1-2, 2016 Free to public. For entry fees, see website cfdragonboat.org

The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival is the main event of the year. Born out of myth and legend 2,000 years ago in southern China, dragon boat racing is one of the

fastest growing water sports worldwide. Two million compete around the world. According to Colleen McGinley, executive director of Tavares Chamber of Commerce, the Dragon Boat Festival, now in its 14th year in Tavares, “is a big draw. Racers from all over the world compete.” A highlight is the Saturday night opening ceremony: Awakening the Dragon.

CENTRAL FLORIDA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

THE 29TH ANNUAL SUNNYLAND ANTIQUE BOAT FESTIVAL Wooten Park, Tavares March 2016 $5 for adults, $3 for children acbs-sunnyland.org

The exquisite artistry of antique boats, along with passionate owners dedicated to showroom-quality restoration draw crowds of people to this three-day event on the shores of Lake Dora. This festival brings together a community of boat lovers who love to discuss, admire, and enjoy these beautiful pieces of American history. Boat aficionados will appreciate the nautical themed flea market and assortment of live music. 114TH ANNUAL GEORGEFEST Downtown Eustis February 27-March 1, 2016 eustischamber.org/GeorgeFest

Celebrate the birth of our nation’s first president with Ferris wheels, fireworks, and upbeat music as Eustis shows it knows how to

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF HAPPENINGS IN LAKE COUNTY AND INFORMATION ON OTHER FESTIVALS AROUND TOWN, CHECK OUT LAKECOUNTYFL.GOV/CALENDAR October 20 15

1 41

The Villages Facelift Specialist You Can Trust Surgical or Non-Surgical. Don’t settle for less.

Results are typical and do vary.

Dr. Rich Castellano is a Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon as seen on:

Results are typical and do vary.

YOU’RE INVITED! LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE

Free ImageLift seminars are being held at the following locations in October and November. Meet the doctor and enjoy free food, books, *drawings and door prizes. *RAFFLE DRAWINGS AWARD FREE FILLER TREATMENTS, A $1200 VALUE!

FREE IMAGELIFT BOOK for first 20 callers! (Retail $14.95)

October 6th October 20th November 10th November 17th

CALL NOW TO RSVP - LIMITED SEATING

PROMO CODE “STYLE” Seminar at the Waterfront Inn, The Villages Filler Luncheon at The Villages ImageLift office Filler Luncheon at The Villages ImageLift office Seminar at the Waterfront Inn, The Villages

"Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hrs of responding to ad for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment."

Dr. Castellano

THE VILLAGES // 8630 East County Road 466 877.346.2435 // www.IMAGELIFT.com

Final thought // John Sotomayor

ABSORBING LAKE LIKE A SPONGE So far, my life as a newcomer in Lake County is nonconventional and could be summed up by two simultaneous opposing extremes: a whirlwind, hyperactive professional life juxtaposed against a transitional, almost lackluster, private life. For work, I learned where to go and what to do for some of the most fascinating area activities. For an aviation piece, I learned where to take pilot lessons for a day. Answer: Sunair Aviation in Leesburg. To fly a tandem hang-glider. Answer: Quest Air Hang Gliders in Groveland. Even soar as high as 3,000 feet or as low as 500 feet (in uncongested areas) within a hot air balloon. In Lake, we have two options: Florida Balloon Adventures in Tavares or Rohr Balloons in Mount Dora. So far, I have done none of those things. But I hope to someday. My personal life is much more subdued, although hurried. Once I opened a new account with a local bank, registered with the city for utility service and installed my Comcast—sorry, Xfinity—in the span of a day, I was ready to explore my new surroundings in the downtown Leesburg’s historic district. The people

144

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who make up Main Street et are traditional Americana. na. One courteous driver held eld back traffic to allow me to cross the street, and waved ved as she did. The boutiques that line ne Main Street serve more than window-dressing. Recently, ntly, I was invited to attend the he Black & White Ball held at the Mission Inn Resort in n Howey-In-The-Hills with h my Akers Media team. Presentented by Disney and benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubss of Lake and Sumter Counties, ies, my tux was a must. Thing ng was, I needed a new shirt, rt, bowtie, and cummerbund. nd. The shopkeepers at Getzel’s zel’s Department Store, acrosss the street from Tropic Theatre, tre, graciously assisted me. The effort was successful. I met the affable Mayor of Eustis, tis, Michael Holland; the efferfervescent MC of the event, J Scott Berry of J. Scott’s Skin Care & Day Spa, and nd other luminaries. For the most part, I enjoy joy Lake County’s leisure livving, which includes longg walks and weekend drives. ves. I visited Tavares once forr no particular reason and d enjoyed a cool drink on a hot day alone while watchching seaplanes come and go. In contrast, I also enjoyed d the populous Mount Dora ra

.com

Fine Arts Festival. Life on the water sounds good, so I’ll add “make friends with a boat-owner” to my to-do list. The best enjoyments are still the simple pleasures. To date, my favorite thing to do in Leesburg, above all else, is to walk to Publix after a downpour, pass a neighbor’s home lined by minty bushes, and take in a deep breath. Glorious.

ES K A M TA TOYO

R.. A C E TH

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E! C N E ER F F I D

“TREATING CUSTOMERS WITH HONESTY AND INTEGRITY FOR OVER 37 YEARS! STOP BY TODAY AND EXPERIENCE THE DELUCA DIFFERENCE.” – FRANK DELUCA, PRESIDENT/OWNER

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DELUCATOYOTA.COMM 352.553.2198 / 1719 SW COLLEGE RD. OCALA Featuring a no cost maintenance plan with roadside assistance.

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Aida is greater than cancer. With cancer running in her family, Aida knew the importance of regular screenings. :V ^OLU OLY KVJ[VYZ KPHNUVZLK OLY ^P[O HU HNNYLZZP]L MVYT VM IYLHZ[ JHUJLY ZOL ^HZ YLHK` [V ÄNO[ ( `LHY later, with the help of the Florida Hospital Waterman Cancer Institute and some of the region’s most advanced cancer treatment including SAVI®, a breakthrough in radiation therapy, Aida is cancer free. To read more about Aida, her journey to survivorship and how she is greater than breast cancer, visit FHWaterman.com.

Aida Yaccarino Breast Cancer Survivor with her husband, Lou

Are You Ready to See a Clearer, Brighter World? Lake Eye provides world-class surgical experience, training and technology to rid you of cataracts and restore clear vision, even if you have astigmatism or require multi-focal lenses. Over the past decade, Drs. Scot Holman, Scott Wehrly and Vinay Gutti have performed thousands of successful, cataract surgeries, preventing cataract-related blindness and returning clear, healthy vision to thousands of satisfied patients.

For clearly better cataract treatment, look to Lake Eye for surgical options focused on your complete satisfaction.

Board-certified ophthalmologists (from left to right):

SCOT C. HOLMAN, MD, SCOTT R. WEHRLY, MD and VINAY GUTTI, MD

TAVARES | 352-343-2020 LEESBURG | 352-365-2020 LADY LAKE | 352-350-2070 THE VILLAGES | 352-750-2020