Style Magazine, February 2024

FEB’24

L AKE & SUMTER

PAID PRO M OTIO NAL FE ATURE

BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT

BUSINESS OW N E R S S HAR E T H E I R E X PE RTI SE

L E ES B U RG ’S

SEAFOOD SHACK

PG. 67

A MUST TRY! PG. 108

OMG COFFEE EXCELLENCE

A LOOK AT L A KE CO U N T Y ’S

SPORTS SCENE

DELIGHTS AFICIONADOS PG. 104

PG. 30

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FEB’24 V.20

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CONTENTS 1 of 2

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Rev up the excitement Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner eager to kickstart your motocross journey, Lake County offers the perfect terrain and many experts to help unleash your two-wheel passion.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

083 PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Business Spotlight Local entrepreneurs talk shop about their businesses and areas of expertise, showcasing essential services and offerings that enrich and elevate our community.

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Playgrounds of potential

Walking in faith

Preserving aquatic legacy

Lake County is known for premier venues perfect for serious sports training, plus a multitude of choices when it comes to exploring nature or living it up with friends.

Hear the inspiring journey of football great Sammie Smith who candidly shares his path from triumphs to setbacks and redemption.

Immerse yourself in the history and mission of Sumter County’s Florida Bass Conservation Center, a cornerstone of freshwater fish production in the Sunshine State.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

STORY: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

STORY: AMANDA VALDERRAMA

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WILLS

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SCAN ME

FEB’24 V.20

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CONTENTS 2 of 2

DEPARTMENTS

first

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022

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THE HIT LIST 022 PERSON OF INTEREST 024 OUTSTANDING STUDENT 026

agenda

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TO-DO LIST 098 LOCAL TALENT 101 HI, SOCIETY 102

sports hub

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MALE ATHLETE 108 FEMALE ATHLETE 110 SPORTS UPDATE 112

menu

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IN THE KITCHEN 120 FORK ON THE ROAD 124 BEHIND THE BAR 126 DINING GUIDE 128

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126 SAMMIE SMITH’S INSPIRATIONAL STORY

FOOTBALL ICON CHRONICLES FAITH-FILLED JOURNEY

FEB’24

L AKE & SUMTER

columns FROM THE PUBLISHER 014 FINAL THOUGHT 136

PAID PRO M OTIO NAL FE ATURE

E ON TH R C OV E

BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT

BUS I N ESS OW N E RS S H ARE T H E I R E XP E RT I S E

Lake

LEES B U RG’S

SEAFOOD SHACK

PG. 67

A MUST TRY!

PG. 108

OMG COFFEE EXCELLENCE

A LOOK AT

and

L AK E COU N T Y ’S

OMG

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

COFFEE EXCELLENCE DELIGHTS AFICIONADOS!

BUSINESS OWNERS SHARE THEIR EXPERTISE

PG. 104

PG. 67

SEAFOOD SHACKA MUST TRY!

SPORTS SCENE

DELIGHTS AFICIONADOS PG. 104

LEESBURG’S

PG. 108

A LOOK AT LAKE COUNTY’S

PG. 30

136

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F R A N Z I S K A

HUET T NE R PG. 60

Sumter Style

Village Edition

Design: Michael Gaulin Photo: Nicole Hamel On the Cover: Sammie Smith

Design: Michael Gaulin Photo: Udo Spreitzenbarth On the Cover: Dr. Franziska Huettner

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Why local sports matter Hometown teams have the power to bind communities together. appy February, friends!

Most can probably say that sports play a huge role in our daily lives.

From following professional teams and rooting for our favorite colleges to participating in recreational activities, sports fans have something to cheer about – or bemoan – on any given day.

But what about local teams that bring communities together on game nights, yet are often overshadowed by pro sports?

Well, we believe they deserve just as much attention.

That’s why Style magazine is committed to providing the very best local sports coverage through our weekly podcast and daily website reporting.

Whether it’s cheering on your high school football team or rooting for your city’s local Little League team, we want to make sure you never miss a moment of our hometown heroes’ triumphs and challenges.

Our local athletes are important to you, and important to us.

These teams are made up of family members, our friends and our neighbors.

They represent the heart and soul of our communities and deserve recognition for their hard work and dedication.

By covering their games and sharing their stories, we are not only supporting them but also promoting unity within our towns.

Local sports provide opportunities for youth athletes to stay active, learn valuable life skills like teamwork and perseverance, and build strong relationships with others in their community.

By shining a spotlight on these teams, we are inspiring the next generation of athletes to strive for greatness.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our readers for their continued support and feedback about our local sports coverage. Your input is crucial in helping us improve and expand our coverage of the teams that mean the most to you. So keep sending us your suggestions, game updates, and photos – we love seeing them!

Thank you!

Kendra Akers Doug Akers OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com

PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

DESIGN / EDITORIAL / PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Gaulin Roxanne Brown CREATIVE DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

MANAGING EDITOR roxanne@akersmediagroup.com

Shawnee Coppola Gina Horan DESIGNER shawnee@akersmediagroup.com

STAFF WRITER gina@akersmediagroup.com

Alejandra D’Jermanos Nicole Hamel DESIGNER alejandra@akersmediagroup.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER nicole@akersmediagroup.com

Brittany Fogt DESIGNER brittany@akersmediagroup.com

DIGITAL MEDIA Cindy Peterson Kyle Coppola DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR STAFF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER cindy@akersmediagroup.com

DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST SPORTS WRITER & PODCAST HOST kyle@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cynthia McFarland Amanda Valderrama

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Gary Corsair Katie Sartoris

SALES / MARKETING Tim McRae Jennifer Poole VICE PRESIDENT, SALES tim@akersmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE jennifer@akersmediagroup.com

Melanie Melvin Shaena Long ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE melanie@akersmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR shaena@akersmediagroup.com

ADMINISTRATION Emily Gaulin Aubrey Akers Simmons OFFICE MANAGER emily@akersmediagroup.comm

ACCOUNT & CLIENT SERVICES aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION Frank Suarez DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Akers Media is a proud member of

Kendra

Winner of 200+ Awards for Excellence

Have a story to tell?

We’re always looking for stories about people who live and work in our area.

Send suggestions to editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

014 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2023 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” 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.

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How Do You Decrease

Cancer Risk PA I D

P RO M O TIONAL

FEATU RE

S

ome risk factors, like age, cannot be avoided, but limiting your exposure to other factors may lower your risk. The American Association for Cancer Research says these “preventable causes” are responsible for “more than 40 percent of all cancers diagnosed and nearly half of all deaths from cancer in the United States.”

The National Cancer Institute lists the moststudied known or suspected risk factors for cancer: ADVANCING AGE is the most important risk factor for cancer overall and for many cancer types.

DRINKING ALCOHOL can increase your risk of mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx (voice box), liver, and breast cancers.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES to various cancer-causing substances can damage DNA and lead to cancer.

CHRONIC INFLAMMATION can cause DNA damage over time and lead to cancer.

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CERTAIN FOODS: for example, frequent consumption of red and processed meat is a known risk factor for colorectal cancer.

HORMONES: for example, being exposed for a long time and/or to high levels of estrogen and progesterone has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

IMMUNOSUPPRESSION: immunosuppressive diseases like HIV/AIDS, and drugs that suppress the immune system, make it less able to detect and destroy cancer cells or fight off cancer-causing infections.

INFECTIOUS AGENTS: some viruses, bacteria, and parasites can cause cancer or increase cancer risk.

OBESITY can increase cancer risk in the breast (in post-menopausal women), colon, rectum, endometrium (lining of the uterus), esophagus, kidney, pancreas, and gallbladder.

IONIZING RADIATION, including radon, X-rays,

gamma rays, and other forms of high-energy radiation, can damage DNA and cause cancer.

SUNLIGHT: exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes damage that can lead to skin cancer.

TOBACCO USE has been linked to lung, larynx (voice box), mouth, esophagus, throat, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, pancreas, colorectal, and cervical cancer, as well as acute myeloid leukemia. Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk of mouth, esophagus, and pancreatic cancer. Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer and of death from cancer.

RBOI’s licensed clinical social workers can help you with free programs in smoking cessation and stress reduction, and can help you access screening.

Give us a call.

Beyond Cancer: Living Life to the Fullest “We Can” Weekend is a free event for those facing cancer, cancer survivors, and their families. This special program of seminars, vendors, resources, and more occurs on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 9:30 am. to 12:30 p.m. at the Veteran Foreign Legion, 699 W Lady Lake Blvd, Lady Lake, FL 32159.

Breakfast and goodie bags are included. You must register by Feb. 19, 2024. Call 352-7320277 or email Amy Roberts: ARoberts@rboi.com.

by the numbers

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Americans estimated to be diagnosed with cancer (other than non-melanoma skin cancer) during 2023

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New Blood Test Helps Determine Hereditary Cancer Risk Up to 10% of cancers may be hereditary. The Invitae Common Hereditary Cancers Panel, a newly-available blood test, examines 47 genes for possible increased cancer risk. Doctors prescribe the test after studying personal and family medical histories to see where cancers have occurred. Genetic counseling may also be recommended.

The Benefits of Screening Through early detection, screening can make cancers easier to treat and help reduce cancer deaths.

Tests include mammography for breast cancer, Pap test for cervical cancer, colonoscopy for colorectal cancer, low-dose CT scan for lung cancer, PSA test for prostate cancer, and more.

Decrease in age-adjusted overall cancer death rate between 1991 and 2020

3 out of 10 Cancer deaths caused by cigarette smoking

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P EO PLE C O MM EN TA RY NEWS

OUTSTANDING STUDENT Umatilla High senior Gracelyn Roach ready to see where her faith and passions for learning, animals and others lead her.

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THE HIT LIST

DON’T SKIP A BEAT ON HEART HEALTH: According to the World Health Organization, “cardiovascular disease is the world’s number one cause of death, killing over 17 million people every year.” That’s why you’re encouraged to gain awareness and take extra care of your ticker in February, known as National Heart Healthy Month. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests these strategies to live a heart-healthy lifestyle: 1. Learn your health history; 2. Eat a healthy diet; 3. Move more, sit less; 4. Quit smoking; 5. Take medicines as directed; 6. Choose drinks wisely; 7. Monitor your blood pressure at home. For more details, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/hearthealth.htm

FEBRUARY FUN FACT: Before we adopted the Latin name for our second month, Old English provided ordinary, descriptive names like “cabbage” or “mud,” for February. The most common Old English name was Solmonath, which literally means “mud month.”

CART PATH: There are thousands of golf carts puttering around on paths in the Villages. If you own one, be sure to adhere to annual maintenance.

According to Lexi Wyatt of Golf Cart Gal, LLC, having an annual service is crucial. “One yearly check-up can lead a cart to long life,” she says. This includes oil change, spark plugs, fuel and air filter check, checking the battery, starter, clutch and belts. For more information, call 352.350.4508.

SWEET TREATS: Little Darlin’s Sweet Shoppe in the Market at Sawgrass Grove is a great place to find ice cream and homemade cookies and sweets. Cake Batter Fudge and Cookie Dough are popular, but mom and dad should try the unique “Exhausted Parent,” a bourbon spiked espresso ice cream swirled with bittersweet chocolate chunks. Cashless, 766 Marilee Place, The Villages.

DOUBLE DUTY: The thousands of teenagers age 14-17 who work in Florida are governed by specific rules regarding teen employment.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation provides these tips for teens and parents: Teens: • Know your rights to be in a safe and healthful workplace • Learn to recognize hazards at work and speak up when you see them • Learn where you can get information about your rights

Parents: • Take an active role in the employment decisions of your teens • Become knowledgeable about child labor laws

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SUPER BOWL, SUPER SNACKIN’: Superbowl Sunday is practically a holiday here in the U.S. According to the National Retail Federation, the average fan will spend about $85.36 on food, drinks, decorations and other merchandise to celebrate the Super Bowl, which falls on February 11 this year. But there’s no need to dig that deep with so many great venues where you can watch the big game and enjoy awesome food and drink throughout Lake and Sumter Counties. Here are just a few: • Legends, Fruitland Park

• Cody’s, Lake Sumter Landing

• Miller’s Ale House, Lady Lake, Clermont, Mount Dora

• Lollygaggers, Wildwood

• Blue Fin, Brownwood • Froggers, Mount Dora • Gator’s Dockside, Eustis, Clermont, The Villages

• Legends AllStars, Clermont • Cousin Vinnie’s Sports Bar, Leesburg • Buffalo Wild Wings, Clermont

EVERYONE LOVES A PARADE: The Eustis African American Heritage Celebration Committee proudly presents its 31st annual African-American Parade Celebration at 10am Saturday, February 17. Parade participants will ride floats, vehicles, bicycles and scooters, many decorated in heritage colors of red, green and black. The parade, seen as a cultural and educational endeavor, will begin on Prescott Street, continue east onto Bates Avenue, turn left onto Wall Street, left at Dixie Avenue and culminate at Eustis High’s Cartwright Center grounds. For more information, visit: https://www.eustis.org/Residents/Events/ African-American-Heritage-Parade-Festival-2022

ISN’T SHE LOVELY?: The Lake County Fair Association’s 2024 Miss Lake County Fair winners have been revealed. On Facebook, the organization says: “Let’s celebrate these remarkable individuals and welcome our new royalty as they embark on their journey representing the essence and charm of our beloved Lake County Fair! Stay tuned for the incredible moments and experiences that lie ahead.” The winners include: • Miss Lake County Fair: Mia Lowery • Teen Miss: Rhiannon Revello • Junior Miss: Ayla Hume • Little Miss: Zuri Spurlock • Tiny Miss: Saige Herter • Peewee Miss: Sadie Beveridge • Baby Miss: Chloe Cullen

MUSIC TO YOUNG EARS: More than 1,100 Groveland Elementary School students were surprised with new musical instruments donated to their classrooms by Niagara Bottling and Music Will.

Students received the new instruments from volunteers from both organizations at a schoolwide assembly in December. The donation was made under the auspices of Niagara Cares, the company’s charitable arm. Seven U.S. schools received instruments. Groveland Elementary was the only Florida school.

LET ME CALL YOU SWEETHEART: Don’t forget to treat your significant other to an extra “I love you,” a card or a gift that expresses how much they mean on Valentine’s Day, February 14.

Popular gifts include chocolate, flowers, gift cards or stuffed animals, but why not splurge on a special experience/date to ensure long-lasting memories are made and enjoyed?

PERSON OF INTEREST

PEO PLE

Michael Rosene Illuminating excellence: Summerfield man talks 40-Year legacy in the world of lights and entertainment.

VITAL STATS

INTERVIEWER: AMANDA VALDERRAMA

• 60 years old

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL • 40 years of experience running lights

• Resides in Summerfield

Past working experience: I’ve worked mainly as a lighting director throughout my career, but I’ve also covered spotlight and tech for performances. I’ve had a lot of different roles; I was even an electrician on shows, working with national acts and local bands. I’ve toured all over the United States, all the way up to Canada — a lot of shows in the last 40 years.

How I began my career: I’ve worked in the stage-lighting industry since 1984. It all started when I was playing bass guitar with some friends who were in a band. They mentioned to me that I needed to run the lights during their show because they didn’t have anyone else to do it. Even though I didn’t know how, I somehow figured it out. That first show I ran I thought, ‘woah this is cool,’ and it didn’t stop from there; it just grew.

My current role: I’ve been working at The Villages Entertainment for 16 years as Lighting Director. I program lights for shows at Savannah Center and special events at the squares within The Villages.

Sometimes I’ll jump out and do a few gigs here and there when friends call from the past. I’m also a metal fabricator and certified welder so I do custom trussing and build custom lighting fixtures. I like to build things that I would want but haven’t seen.

Know a person of interest? Tell us!

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My biggest achievement: Staying on top of everything that’s thrown at me! Every year with lighting and sound work, there’s something new and different. It’s always growing and getting better. When I started, it was nothing like it is today; it’s a totally different world and you need to stay up to date with new technology.

I’ V E TO U R A L L OV E D ER TH E U N IT E D S TAT ALL TH ES, E WAY U P TO CA N A D A — A LOT OF SH O W S IN THE LA ST 4 YEARS 0 .

My workday: A typical

day in my career involves working with different acts.

Some provide specific instructions for their lighting needs, while others rely on my creative input. My job is to program lights based on cue stacks, ranging from 100 cues to 500 cues. Someone will call the cues during the show, and you must hit those, while also making sure a person is within that set lighting at the designated time.

In my free time: Every now and then I get some time to go fishing.

Then you know, you’ve got to make time for the real fun stuff like cutting your grass and doing housework.

My goal within my career: I strive for 100% in every aspect. I want to hit the ball out of the park on every show.

I take it personally.

Email your recommendation to editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

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OUTSTANDING STUDENT

PEO PLE

GRACELYN ROACH

Top student, avid reader and kind-hearted animal lover looks to graduate early and pursue her education.

INTERVIEWER: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

L V I TA AT S ST

• 2022 High Point Award for scoring most points at swim meets

• Born in Jacksonville • Senior at Umatilla High

• Huddle captain Fellowship of Christian Athletes

• Age 17

• President of Mural Club, sponsored by art teacher Douglas Stephens

• Captain of Umatilla swim team, swims individual medley

Something people might not know about me: I’m a triplet, the oldest sister by 1½ minutes to brothers Nathan and Seth, also 17, and big sister to Mikah, 15, and Jude, 8.

Most unusual thing about being a triplet: People always ask me what it’s like sharing a birthday, but I don’t know anything other than being a triplet.

One of my greatest accomplishments: My ability to love people who don’t necessarily love me. When I’m afraid and show courage and persevere, it’s not me doing it, that’s the Holy Spirit in me.

My favorite subject in school is: History. I’ve been blessed to have amazing teachers like Bryan Totten.

I am also interested in: I go down random rabbit holes and like to learn about different conflicts, how they were resolved and the consequences.

My closest friends describe me as: Christian. Kind. Caring. Motivated.

Outside of school: I spend a lot of time with my horse, my dog and driving my little Know an outstanding student? Fill us in!

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brother and sister around to activities. If I’m not working on school, I’m usually reading.

I am inspired by: My parents, James and Tiffany Roach, and grandparents D.C. and Kathy Cook and Jane Roach inspire me in all areas of my life. My grandfather, Jim Roach, died in February.

I consider him a huge influence, too My message to the world: You can do hard things. Take advantage of the people around you who love you and can help you.

Future plans: I fast-tracked through the Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) program and will graduate a year early, in May. I got accepted to Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, and also applied to UF’s honors program. I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian for several years, so I may get a degree in biomedical science and transfer to a vet school.

Pets: I have a Maltipoo, Gilbert, and my horse, Cooper, a buckskin Connemara. Both have Instagram accounts!

A belief I live by: “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.” 1 Corinthians 15:10.

Email your recommendations to editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

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In this section, Style looks at Lake County’s dynamic sports landscape, where athletes of all levels thrive amidst top-notch training facilities that help make it a premier sports destination.

Hang on tight as we explore the heart-pounding world of motocross, featuring accomplished riders and passionate supporters who live and breathe the exhilarating culture of dirt, speed, freedom and adrenaline. We also delve into the county’s commitment to sports, manifested by proudly attracting global talents in disciplines ranging from track and field, baseball and softball to basketball, golf, rowing and more.

Whether ready to hit the ground running or in search of a little fun, opportunities abound — buckle up and enjoy the ride through the heart of Lake County’s athletic spirit.

STORIES: ROXANNE BROWN

≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL & PROVIDED

“I’ve been into motocross for 24 years. I’ve been racing since I was 5. My grandfather got me into it. He got his first motorcycle when he was about 30, so I grew up around it. I was just kind of born into it, luckily.”

LOGAN ANDERSON

Revving through adrenaline Unmasking the rush, risks and resilience behind the high-octane universe of motocross racing.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL & PROVIDED

ome people live each day as grounded as possible, a mindset that may translate to taking the safest route in every instance, no matter the activity.

Others live for a thrill and seek out excitement, speed and danger at every turn.

Leesburg’s own Logan Anderson will tell you that he belongs to the latter group. Still, he might argue that despite his love for motorcycles and his thrill-seeking nature, he’s extremely grounded . . . although his definition of the word might involve

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occasionally being thrown onto or hitting the ground.

“I’ve been into motocross for 24 years. I’ve been racing since I was 5,” says Logan, now 29. “My grandfather got me into it. He got his first motorcycle when he was about 30, so I grew up around it. I was just kind of born into it, luckily.”

What is Motocross?

Motocross is a racing sport that involves riders maneuvering a motorcycle or dirt bike over

rough terrain. While dirt bike racing is through trails, motocross races take place on 1 to 3-mile dirt tracks filled with hills, bumps, sharp turns and obstacles. Mix those obstacles with full throttle speeds and many times competitors are literally sent flying into exhilarating high jumps, spins, tricks, spills and crashes—all part of the allure for spectators.

The point of a race is to see who can successfully navigate a course the fastest.

The sport takes focus, mental fortitude, quick-thinking

Zach, surrounded by motorcycles and four-wheelers on his family’s Virginia farm, began riding at age 6.

Starting with casual rides around the fields, he transitioned into local fairground races, gradually progressing to bigger races and national championships.

In 2016, Zach moved to Florida to train at Center Hill’s Baker’s Factory, a specialized motocross and supercross training facility run by Aldon Baker in Sumter County. Following his retirement in 2021, Zach and his family settled in Clermont and built a home.

Zach’s career highlights include clinching multiple titles in both motocross and supercross, most notably the 2020 450 Pro Motocross Championship and two 250 supercross titles. His first career championship came at the 2017 Las Vegas Supercross. and resilience, especially when it comes to getting up and back on the bike after inevitable falls. Most of all, it requires proper training and preparation because motocross has a lot to do with riding position, weight distribution, strength and proper form.

But the rewards are well worth the risks and hard work.

Just ask any rider.

“You’re so focused on what’s ahead of you while you’re on the bike that whatever is going on in your life is lost in the moment, it’s kind of an escape,” Logan says. “You’re out there with your own thoughts, so you can be as creative as you want, and like a pilot, there’s an adrenaline rush that goes along with that feeling of being in the air and flying.”

Pro rider Zach Osborne agrees.

“When you’re on that track, it’s like finding a different kind of freedom. The motorcycle becomes an extension of you, and every turn, every jump is like a dance.

The adrenaline, the focus, and that connection is addictive—it’s what drives us in this sport,” Zach says.

More than just racing Central Florida, including Lake and Sumter Counties, serves as a training hub for racers, where tracks in Orlando, Groveland, Wildwood, and Bushnell offer not just a place to race but a sanctuary for shared passions and growth.

Logan says many motocross enthusiasts from other parts of the country end up in Florida because

good weather conditions and mild winters make the Sunshine State a year-round training ground.

Logan says most of the time, families travel together to root for and help their riders. Family passion is common in the tight-knit racing community.

“Many racers know each other and many started racing as young kids because of their families,” adds Logan, who works and has a family, but continues to ride whenever possible, as does his grandfather.

Kyle Turnis, owner of MOTO4PLAY LLC in Clermont, specializes in servicing and repairing bikes, keeping them in top shape for performance purposes, but also, to keep riders safe. He says there is a network of mechanics, trainers, and professionals dedicated to nurturing talent and helping riders pursue their goals.

“We have a nice hub here in Lake County and a lot of big-name pros train and live in Clermont,” Kyle says.

“They travel all over the world on weekends, but then Monday morning, they’re back at the gym or on the track training and getting ready for the next event.”

Kyle, still passionate about riding and enjoying the rush, says he loves knowing that the work he’s been doing for the past 10 years makes a difference for today’s racers.

Kyle Turnis

Jason knows his stuff too. He’s been riding since he was a young kid, plus he owns Dream Traxx, a company that builds moto tracks for professional riders and training facilities worldwide.

“It’s all about having fun on your dirt bike, but we’re gonna teach you how to have fun safely,” Jason says.

Dangers Zach says that motocross is exhilarating, but he acknowledges its dangers after experiencing about 20 broken bones and various injuries throughout his career.

Logan has also suffered many injuries, including a broken elbow and a knee reconstruction. He says paralysis (or worse) is the biggest fear among riders.

On a positive note, Logan has developed mental resilience. The sport teaches riders not to give up, to persevere through mental battles and know your limits. Logan admits how being away from the sport during recovery feels like missing an essential part of life.

Zach advises young riders to seek guidance from their trainers and local dealers to learn about tracks, necessary gear, safety protocols and advice.

According to Jason, Moto Sandbox instructors even teach riders how to fall safely.

“There are actually proper techniques and fundamentals that we teach riders because there’s all different types of ways you can crash.

With all our experience between the coaches and pros, we’ve developed ways to mentally prepare riders so that if something’s going wrong, they know how to limit the risk of getting hurt,” he adds.

Other stories and the costs of motocross fun Jason says many top motocross racers hail from Florida because they can train hard all year without interruption. That includes Chase Sexton, the reigning 450 champion, multi-time champions Ken Roczen and Levi Kitchen and Hall of Famers Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart, both who continue to give back to the sport.

Jason, born and raised in Polk County, started racing after high school and reached pro status in five years—amazingly fast in the motocross world—before he quit racing in 2003. That experience helped when he started building tracks and it continues as he

“Motocross is a way of life that teaches you the value of hard work and determination.

What you put into it directly influences what you get out of it.

It’s a constant grind, but it’s worth every moment out there, feeling that rush of freedom on the track.”

JESSE ANSLEY

Photo of Jesse Ansley provided by Tyler Miller Photography

He also reflects on the industry’s growth, noting the surge in popularity during the COVID-19 period when outdoor activities became more sought after. Since then, he’s observed an influx of new riders and enthusiasts in the motocross community.

Safety remains a paramount concern for Kyle and his team, who meticulously double and triple check mechanical elements to minimize failures that could pose risks to riders. He stresses the importance of prioritizing safety over victories, advocating for a secure environment for riders and mechanics alike, since they often travel to races together.

Along those same lines, trainers play an integral role in riders’ lives and careers. Cue Jason Baker, who with his wife Stacey, founded Moto Sandbox, a semi-private training facility in the Groveland/Mascotte area.

Jason says the facility blends top-tier training, safety, and community support. It offers programs and camps for pro riders at the top of their game looking to keep in shape mentally and physically, amateur riders looking to go pro and new riders (as young as 4) with a desire to learn about the sport and grow into racing.

trains some of the sport’s most promising riders with help from his facility’s Head Coach Ryan Sipes and Assistant Coach Ryan Baumert, both former pros.

Jesse Ansley, a 23-year-old professional Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) dirt bike racer, has been involved in the sport since the age 6. His grandfather owns TF Suspension LLC in Myakka City, Florida, so being around the shop and races sparked his interest early on.

According to Jesse, GNCC races, as opposed to motocross, span through natural terrain, typically 10 to 11 miles long, challenging riders with obstacles like creek and log crossings, hill climbs, mud sections and tight woods. These three-hour races demand constant focus, where pit stops for fueling and repairs are comparable to those in NASCAR, yet with no cautions or breaks until the checkered flag.

He says in dirt biking, there’s a unique camaraderie between racers and fans. Spectators often lend a helping hand at challenging sections, literally jumping in to assist when riders face difficulties.

Jesse’s life is a constant whirlwind of races and practices.

He competes in up to 40 races a year in Florida, throughout the east coast of the United States and in Panama. In 2024, he estimates his schedule will be packed with 20+ consecutive race weekends.

His training involves a mix of gym sessions, cycling, and on-the-bike practice. While he primarily trains alone, he benefits from a physical coach guiding his routine and decisions throughout the week/race weekends.

Still, he says the challenge behind financing a professional career in motocross is no small feat, which is why many riders secure sponsors. Jesse says there’s continuous expense, in

Fun Fact The word motocross comes from the French word for motorcycle—motocyclette, or moto for short—combined with “cross country.”

addition to a modern-day bike, which costs around $8,000 to $10,000. His racing demands requires four bikes per year, each accumulating 40-50 hours of use before being cycled out for newer ones.

His parting advice for newcomers echoes the significance of dedication and persistence. He suggests setting goals and steadily working toward them.

“Motocross is a way of life that teaches you the value of hard work and determination. What you put into it directly influences what you get out of it. It’s a constant grind, but it’s worth every moment out there, feeling that rush of freedom on the track,” Jesse says.

If interested in attending a race, Jason says there are a lot of local level races and different series throughout Florida, including the Florida Winter Am Series that takes place annually in January/ February and the Florida Cold Cup Series held at various tracks throughout Florida in September/ October. Gainesville also hosts the Thor Mini O’s, one of the biggest amateur national events (approximately 6,000 entries last year) each November.

For more information about upcoming races, locations and more, visit unlimitedsportsmx.com.

Lake Louisa State Park

Champions’ Playground From Olympic training grounds to scenic retreats, discover the perfect balance of sports excellence and Florida’s beauty in Lake County.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

≈ PHOTOS: PROVIDED

estled in the heart of the state, Lake county offers a unique blend of natural beauty and top-notch training facilities, making it a haven for athletes of all kinds. Whether you’re gearing up for the Olympics or aiming for a personal best in a triathlon, the County welcomes you with open arms.

According to Lake County’s Sports Tourism Manager Andrew Grant, the county boasts facilities that have hosted Olympians like Justin Gatlin, Tyson Gay and emerging star Noah Lyles at the National Training Center.

The National Training Center in Clermont serves as a hub for various sports, including track and field, swimming, soccer and weightlifting.

For golf enthusiasts, Lake County offers premier courses at places like Howey-In-The-Hills’ Mission Inn Resort and Club and Montverde’s Bella Collina, a luxurious gated lakefront and golf community.

Nearby, the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy offers the world’s premier junior golf academy, summer and winter golf camps and training for pros, amateurs and adults. And the recently opened Clermont National, akin to Topgolf, provides a dynamic experience with a driving range, restaurants and renovated course dubbed ‘The Grove.’

For basketball enthusiasts, the Big House in Tavares stands tall as the largest facility for indoor basketball and volleyball tournaments.

This venue has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents, some who went on to make their mark in the NBA. Lake County’s dedication to sports tourism includes hosting national championship events and attracting world-class and Olympic athletes.

But Lake County prides itself on being more than just a sports destination, hence its tagline: “Real Florida, Real Close,” a reference to our natural beauty. When athletes and their families take a break from training, they can explore historic downtowns in Mount Dora and Clermont or embark on ecotourism adventures at destinations like Alexander Springs.

Lake County offers a plethora of recreational activities. The Clermont Performing Arts Center is the county’s largest venue for outstanding performance of music, theater and the arts. Fishing enthusiasts can explore the Harris Chain of Lakes, known for both professional and amateur fishing.

The county’s diverse landscapes also cater to thrill-seekers, with options like jet skiing, boating, and off-road experiences at places like Revolution Off-Road Experience in Groveland.

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For those seeking a break from the adrenaline rush, Lake County presents numerous walking and biking trails and nature getaways like Clermont’s Lake Louisa National State Park and the Florida Scrub-Jay Trail, Leesburg’s Pear Park Wildlife Conservation Area and the Trout Lake Nature Center in Eustis.

Plus, Lake County, which is only a 30-minute drive from Orlando’s major attractions, provides visitors with the best of both worlds — training excellence and proximity to renowned theme parks.

As Lake County continues to grow and evolve, with new additions like Olympus—a community and global destination combining health, wellness, fitness, sports, hospitality and entertainment—on the horizon, it remains an ideal destination for athletes, families and nature lovers alike.

The Discover Lake website, www.visitlakefl.com, serves as a comprehensive guide for planning your stay, with information on everything Lake County offers. If seeking prime sport opportunities, please visit www.sportsplanningguide.com.

The following lists, compiled with help from Lake County officials, highlight places to train and play throughout Lake County and beyond.

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Dora Canal

“Lake County is turning into more of a fast-paced area, but it’s still a beautiful destination.

It has a lot to offer and it’s fairly close to the major attractions that are in Orlando,” Andrew says.

Photos provided by Discover Lake County

Lake County Sports Complexes, Training Facilities and Recreational Parks CLERMONT:

EUSTIS:

MOUNT DORA:

Brandy Johnson’s Global Gymnastics Academy

Palmetto Point Park

Lincoln Avenue Community Park

1113 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.241.9300 www.brandysgymnastics.com gymnastics Clermont Arts & Recreation Center 3700 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.3500

1651 Getford Rd. 352.589.4040 disc golf, running, soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, football

1200 N. Unser St. 352.735.7183 disc golf, mountain biking, cycling, baseball, tennis, swimming, softball

LEESBURG: Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR Park)

Recreation & Nature Park 1550 E. 9th Ave. 352.735.7183

5336 University Ave. 352.253.4950

disc golf, running, cycling, mountain biking

SORRENTO:

Lake Hiawatha Preserve

pickleball, soccer, softball, running cycling, baseball, basketball

450 12th St. 352.394.3500

Palmetto Street Complex

pickleball, basketball, swimming, aquatics, cornhole, cheer/dance, robotics, esports

disc golf, running, cycling

310 S. Palmetto St. 352.728.9885

Lake Louisa State Park

tennis, shuffleboard

7305 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.3969 adventure racing, triathlon, cycling, running, swimming, fishing Orlando Health National Training Center 1935 Don Wickham Dr. 352.241.7144 www.usantc.com swimming, synchronized swimming, soccer, lacrosse, track and field Palatlakaha Recreation Park 1250 12th St. 352.394.3500 soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, running, cycling Waterfront Park 330 3rd St. 352.394.3500 triathlon, cycling, open water swimming

Sleepy Hollow Recreation Complex 2775 Hollow Lane 352.728.9885 baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee Venetian Gardens 109 E. Dixie Ave. 352.728.9885 bass fishing, watersports

MINNEOLA: Minneola Athletic Complex 13930 Education Ave. 352.253.4950 baseball, softball, soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee

East Lake Sports & Community Complex 24809 Wallick Rd. 352.243.9800 soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, running, cycling

Hickory Point Recreation Facility 227341 SR. 19 352.324.6141 bass fishing, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, flag football The Big House 1544 Lane Park Cutoff 352.562.7878 www.bighouseusa.com basketball, volleyball Woodlea Park Sports Complex 2770 Woodlea Rd. 352.742.6181 baseball, softball Wooton Park 2770 Woodlea Rd. 352.742.6181 fishing, water sports, running, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboard

TAVARES: Fred Stover Sports Complex

UMATILLA:

490 Clifford St. 352.742.6181

North Lake Regional Park

baseball, softball

40730 Roger Giles Rd. 352.771.5929 baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, disc golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, cycling

Places to visit when training is done CLERMONT: Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards produces some of the best wines in the state. Tour the facility, participate in a wine tasting and enjoy live music on weekends.

Golf! Clermont is home to several world-class golf courses, including Legends Golf & Country Club, Clermont National Driving Range and the Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club.

Rogers Park on Lake Griffin offers a playground, picnic area, fishing pier and boat ramp.

Take a boat tour on Lake Minneola, one of the top attractions in Clermont.

A boat tour is a great way to explore this beautiful lake while enjoying the scenery and wildlife.

EUSTIS:

Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and a dog park.

Ferran Park is a beautiful waterfront oasis on Lake Eustis that features a playground, picnic areas, a boat ramp and a walking path.

Lake Harris Park on the shores of Lake Harris offers a boat ramp, fishing pier and picnic area.

The unique Presidents Hall of Fame museum showcases presidential memorabilia, including a replica of the Oval Office. This is a great place to learn more about American history.

The Eustis Historical Museum features exhibits on Eustis area history, art and culture.

The Florida Citrus Tower is an iconic Clermont landmark offering great views of the surrounding area from its observation deck.

The Clermont Historic Village, a group of beautifully preserved historic buildings turned museums located in downtown Clermont, bring the area’s local history to life.

Crooked River Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve offering wonderful opportunities for bird watching, hiking and picnicking.

Take a scenic boat tour of the beautiful waterways and lakes surrounding Eustis to get a unique perspective of the area.

Attend a festival or event: Eustis hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the GeorgeFest celebration in February, which is the oldest continuous festival in Florida.

LEESBURG: Venetian Gardens’ picnic areas, playgrounds, walking paths and boat ramps on Lake Harris make this lakefront park a must-visit for locals and visitors.

Skate World is a family-friendly roller skating rink offering public skating sessions, lessons and special events.

Leesburg Public Library offers a range of programs and events for kids, including story times, crafts and other educational activities.

MOUNT DORA: Lake Dora offers opportunities for boating and fishing from the shore or on water as well as other water sports.

The city has several parks and trails, including the Palm Island Park and the Mount Dora Trail, that are ideal for hiking, picnicking and other outdoor activities.

Golf at one of the city’s popular courses, including the Mount Dora Golf Club and the Deer Island Golf and Lake Club.

Mount Dora hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival and the Mount Dora Spring Festival.

The city has numerous bike trails, including the Mount Dora Trail, which offers a scenic and relaxing ride through the city and surrounding areas.

The IceHouse Theatre offers live performances of plays, musicals and other productions throughout the year.

TAVARES: Tavares has a well deserved reputation as the Seaplane Capital of the World because of its extensive waterways and seaplane tours.

Tavares is located on the shores of Lake Dora, which is part of the beautiful Florida Harris Chain of Lakes, made up of lakes and the canals that connect them.

Lakes in and around Tavares provide excellent boating and fishing opportunities with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish and bluegill.

Scrub-Jay Trail

Tavares has several parks and recreation areas, including Wooton Park, site of several festivals and events throughout the year and Hickory Point Recreational Park, which offers sports fields, picnic areas and a boat ramp.

Tavares has a charming historic downtown with boutique shops, restaurants and cafes.

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Golf Lake County is a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels, with numerous courses to choose from – many with stunning views of natural surroundings. Here are some of the top golf courses in the county: Mission Inn Resort & Club features two championship golf courses, El Campeón and Las Colinas. Both have been ranked among the top courses in Florida.

Bella Collina Golf Club is a private club featuring an 18-hole, Nick Faldo-designed course with stunning views of Lake Apopka.

The award-winning RedTail Golf Club in Sorrento was designed by Dave Harman and offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience.

Kings Ridge Golf Club in Clermont offers a unique golfing experience – three nine-hole courses that can be played in different combinations.

Mission Inn Resort & Club

Palisades Country Club in Clermont features rolling hills, stunning views of Lake Minneola and a challenging layout.

Deer Island Country Club in Tavares is a fun and challenging experience that features a unique island green.

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Boat Ramps: From the vibrant lakes of Clermont to the serene waters of Eustis and the peaceful canals of Mount Dora, Lake County offers a boat ramp for every type of boating adventure.

So, set your compass towards Lake County and let those boat ramps be your gateway to beautiful waterways.

Alexander Springs

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GROVELAND:

EUSTIS:

The Arnold Brothers Boat Ramp provides easy access to the Groveland waterways, which makes it a favorite among locals and visitors.

Eustis, home to several scenic lakes, boasts three boat ramps: Lake Dalhousie Boat Ramp, Lake Yale Boat Ramp West and Marsh Boat Ramp. Each ramp provides efficient entry to stunning lakes.

ASTATULA AND ASTOR: The Astatula Boat Ramp is a reliable choice for launching into the lake. Astor has two ramps: the Butler Street Boat Ramp and the Lake George Boat Ramp.

Both provide effortless entry into Astor’s beautiful water bodies.

CLERMONT AND WINTER GARDEN: The John’s Lake Boat Ramp and the Palatlakaha Boat Ramp offer simple access to the vast lake network Clermont is famous for, ensuring an enjoyable boating experience.

UMATILLA: The Lake Holly Boat Ramp in Umatilla is your ticket to the tranquil waters of Lake Holly. It’s a popular spot for a peaceful day of boating or fishing.

TAVARES AND MOUNT DORA: In Tavares, the Lake Jem Boat Ramp offers easy access to the beautiful Lake Jem, while in neighboring Mount Dora, the McDonald’s Canal Boat Ramp ensures smooth entry into enchanting canal waters.

Water Sports: Lake County, Florida is home to over 1,000 lakes, making it a great destination for water sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Here are some popular water spots in the county.

With so many lakes to choose from, boating is a popular activity in Lake County. You can rent a boat or bring your own and explore the many waterways, including Lake Harris, Lake Eustis and Lake Dora.

Lake County offers exceptional opportunities for excitement through waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Lake Minneola is a popular spot for both activities.

Lake County is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of fish species including bass, crappie and catfish. Fish from the shore or a boat and enjoy the scenic views while waiting for a bite.

Lake County has many quiet and scenic waterways that are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The Dora Canal and the Wekiva River are popular spots.

Paddleboarding is a fun way to explore Lake County. You can rent a paddleboard or bring your own and enjoy the peacefulness of the water.

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Hikes and Trails: Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual stroller, Lake County’s many trails offer an invigorating blend of nature, serenity and adventure. Step onto these trails and let the magic of the county’s natural beauty leave a lasting imprint on your heart.

Northeast Lake County MOUNT DORA: This charming town is home to the Tremain Street Greenway Trail, a picturesque pathway that allows for leisurely strolls and bike rides. Nearby, the Lincoln Park Trail provides a serene walking experience amid lush greenery.

EUSTIS: The Ferran Park Lake Walk is a delightful waterfront trail with stunning views of Lake Eustis, while the Pine Meadows Trails wind through a lush woodland landscape. Nearby, the Neighborhood Lakes Trail offers a peaceful walk through natural Florida landscapes.

SORRENTO: The Mount Plymouth Bike Route provides an engaging journey for biking enthusiasts, weaving through the town’s attractive residential areas and green spaces.

PAISLEY: The Clearwater Lake Trail offers a delightful exploration around the lake.

And the Florida National Scenic Trail is a must-visit for its stunning views and challenging terrains.

UMATILLA: The North Lake Trail’s beautiful views of Lake Eustis provide a great setting for both hiking and biking. Nearby, the Lake May Reserve Trail and Lake Norris Conservation Area offer immersive nature experiences with paths winding through diverse ecosystems.

LEESBURG: Leesburg is home to the Marsh Park Trail, Sylvan Shores Park Trail and Palmetto Point Park. Each is known for unique hiking experiences amidst serene natural settings.

EUSTIS AND ALTOONA: On the outskirts of Eustis and Altoona, the Pine Forest Park Trail and Sunset Island Park Trail offer pleasant walks through charming parks, providing a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Northwest Lake County LEESBURG: Leesburg serves as a hub for several delightful trails. The Venetian Gardens Trail and

Venetian Gardens Islands Trail provide stunning waterfront views and peaceful strolls, while the LeesburgWildwood Trail is an engaging route for biking and hiking.

The PEAR Park Trail offers a serene nature walk amidst a beautiful park setting.

TAVARES: Tavares is home to the Tav-Lee Trail, which is perfect for a refreshing bike ride or a leisurely stroll. The Sleepy Hollow Trail provides a tranquil walk through scenic landscapes, while the Lake Idamere Park Trail offers a refreshing nature hike around a picturesque lake.

LAKE JEM: The Lake Jem Trail promises a wonderful outdoor adventure that allows hikers to explore a diverse range of natural landscapes.

EUSTIS: The Captain Haynes Trail and Haynes Creek Trail both provide fascinating journeys through natural areas and waterways.

FRUITLAND PARK: The Gardenia Trail and Gardenia Trail Sumter Connector offer beautiful hikes through serene park settings with the chance to spot a variety of wildlife.

ASTOR: The Emeralda Marsh – Bull Hammock Trail and the Emeralda Marsh – Wildlife Drive are exceptional for nature lovers that provide close encounters with diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems.

LADY LAKE: The Central Lake Trail and the Twin Lakes Trail provide a wonderful blend of natural beauty and engaging hiking experiences.

South Lake County CLERMONT: Clermont offers a wealth of trails. The Clermont Legacy Loop Trail, Hancock Trail and South Lake Trail all provide engaging biking and hiking experiences with stunning views. Ferndale Preserve, with its beautiful walking paths, promises a serene retreat for nature lovers. The Grassy Lake Trail and Palatlakaha River Park offer the chance to appreciate diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

ASTATULA: The Lake Apopka Loop Trail, which provides a unique blend of scenic views and challenging terrain, ends at the Clay Island Trailhead on Carolyn Lane in Astatula. The loop, which extends to Apopka, is perfect for an adventurous day of hiking or biking.

MONTVERDE: The Montverde Greenway Trail is a wonderful option for a leisurely stroll or bike ride that offers a pleasant journey through the town’s picturesque landscapes.

MASCOTTE: The Black Still Lake Trail and Citrus Grove Trail provide an immersive outdoor experience that leads hikers through scenic landscapes and peaceful natural areas.

GROVELAND: The Wilson Lake Trail makes for beautiful and relaxing hiking or biking along a peaceful pathway in lush natural settings.

POLK CITY: The General James A. Van Fleet Trail in Polk City, which runs through the Green Swamp wildlife management area in Lake County, is a hidden gem offering a scenic and tranquil route through central Florida’s captivating natural landscapes.

MINNEOLA: The Clay Island Loop Trail and Pasture Reserve Trails allow hikers to explore the city’s beautiful natural surroundings, with stunning views and a variety of wildlife to spot along the way.

Seminole County and Orange County On the outskirts of Lake County, the Seminole-Wekiva Trail and West Orange Trail provide delightful hiking, biking and exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes.

Dog Parks: Lake County has several dog parks where you can bring your furry friends to socialize and play off-leash. The following are a few of them.

Conservation areas: Lake County’s conservation areas are living testaments to the region’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. These sanctuaries provide an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature in its purest form. Whether you’re an avid hiker, birdwatcher, or simply a lover of the great outdoors, Lake County’s conservation areas await to offer you a truly remarkable journey.

EUSTIS:

SORRENTO:

MOUNT PLYMOUTH:

Eustis is home to two incredible conservation sites. The Pine Meadows Conservation Area offers an immersive experience within its stunning natural landscapes, while the Lake May Reserve is perfect for wildlife viewing, birdwatching and hiking.

The Neighborhood Lakes Reserve provides an inviting natural environment with scenic trails ideal for leisurely walks, jogs, or bike rides.

The Mount Plymouth Lakes community is known for a charming conservation area that offers peaceful lakeside views and walking paths that provide a delightful escape from the bustling city life.

GROVELAND: The Pasture Reserve promises a peaceful outdoor experience, with beautiful meadows and woodland trails making for delightful nature walks.

PAISLEY: The Ellis Acres Reserve is a peaceful retreat offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. This nature reserve is perfect for bird watchers and those seeking a serene connection with nature.

LEESBURG: PEAR Park is a versatile conservation area offering a variety of amenities, including nature trails, a wildlife habitat and a canine exercise area. It’s a splendid spot for families, nature lovers and dog owners.

MINNEOLA: The Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead is a must-visit for its breathtaking panoramic views and well-maintained trails that offer an invigorating hike through captivating terrain.

FERNDALE: Ferndale Preserve is known for its picturesque hilltop views of the surrounding lake and marshland. The preserve’s trails provide a serene and scenic hiking experience that nature enthusiasts will love.

The Lake Idamere Dog Park in Tavares features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water fountains, shaded areas and agility equipment.

Paws Park at Lake Myrtle in Leesburg features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water fountains, shade structures and a walking path.

Mascotte Dog Park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as agility equipment, benches and shade structures.

The Hickory Point Recreational Facility in Tavares features a small dog beach area where dogs are allowed to swim and play in the water.

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2025

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LAKE COUNTY TEACHERS OF THE YEAR FINALISTS!

Brittany Rudolph-Montgomery Carver Middle

2025 Rookie

School Related

Employees of the Year

Karen Kelly Tavares High

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LAKE COUNTY ROOKIE TEACHERS OF THE YEAR FINALISTS!

Haley Gozdowski Eustis Elementary

Night of Stars

Cindy Bellamy Mount Dora High

Courtney Campbell Eustis Middle

Jordan S. Rosenblatt Windy Hill Middle

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2024 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOL RELATED EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR WINNER AND FINALISTS!

Presented By

Please Join Us to Celebrate:

Volunteers of the Year Hall of Fame Inductees Business Partner of the Year School Related Employees of the Year

Beatriz Pacheco Finalist Groveland Elementary

Elizabeth Comstock Winner Pine Ridge Elementary

Lisa Hanawalt Finalist Tavares Middle

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Fisher of Men Sammie Smith shares the faith that changed his life.

STORY: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

ammie Smith is heading to the Harris Chain of Lakes on a brisk winter morning beneath clear blue skies to see if the specs are biting before taking a teenage friend out on the water.

“I love fishing and it’s a sphere of ministry since many boys and girls are into competitive fishing,” says Sammie.

This former NFL player’s personal mission is to be impactful to anyone who crosses his path—especially young people.

“I want to be a changemaker for Christ.

I’m so grateful I get to share my journey,” he says.

Sammie’s book MY NAME IS NOT 18121-018, will be officially released in August 2024, but is available now through Namenot18121018.my.canva.site

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Flying high The Florida native was raised in Zellwood and graduated from Apopka High School in 1985.

Sammie attended Florida State University, where his talent on the football field as a running back prompted him to leave school a year early to enter the NFL draft in 1989.

“It was a lifelong dream to play in the NFL. To be a first round draft pick and be taken by Coach Shula in my home state was really special,” says Sammie, who played for the Dolphins 1989-‘91 with quarterback Dan Marino.

During the 1991 preseason, a knee injury sidelined Sammie for a while. He was traded to the Denver Broncos in 1992, but another injury ended his football career.

He came home to Florida and started a company helping people achieve home ownership.

“That was going well, but I’d reconnected with some old friends and made a really bad choice,” recalls Sammie, who was arrested and sentenced to seven years in federal prison on a drug conviction.

Sitting in the Orange County Jail the night of his arrest in September 1995, he felt he’d lost the platform God had given him to influence others.

“I’d allowed the enemy to steal that. I accepted my responsibility. It was one of the worst days of my life and also one of the best,” he says.

“In the jail cell that night I asked God to come in and change my heart. I believe Jesus was there. I had a peace I can’t explain. I knew I was going to be okay and there was going to be light on the other side.”

In 1998, he was called to the warden’s office, where he heard the warden talking to two familiar voices: FSU coaches Bobby Bowden and Jim Gladden, who’d recruited him.

Those coaches asked him to record a message of advice for current players.

“When I walked out of that office, I was empowered. Here were two men who’d been impactful in my life, who saw value in me and saw an opportunity for me to be influential, despite where I was in life,” says Sammie. “I realized God could still use me.”

Restoration and purpose After completing his sentence, Sammie won restoration of his civil rights from the State of Florida in June 2010. He was inducted into the Florida State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2013.

Since 2012, Sammie has worked for the nonprofit organization Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), first as Lake County representative, then at the University of Mississippi.

During his work for FCA at Ole Miss, he encouraged college football players to finish their degrees and decided to practice what he preached. At age 53, he returned to college and completed his degree in multidisciplinary studies in spring 2020.

Sammie returned to Florida in May 2023, settling in Mount Dora, where he lives with his wife Shalonda. They share their home with their 24-year-old son Creshawn, an Ole Miss grad, and their daughter Sania, a junior at Mount Dora Christian. His oldest daughter Jenee lives in Sanford and has given him two grandsons.

Today, Sammie works with FCA Outdoors, which focuses on non-traditional youth sports such as competitive fishing and hosts a two-day bass tournament in Lake County each summer.

He enjoys taking youth out on his pontoon boat, teaching them to fish and sharing the Gospel during conversations on the lake.

“At this time in the world, more than ever we need to be pouring into the lives of young people,” he says.

“We have to be mindful and bold and share our faith.”

Sammie is regularly booked for speaking engagements. His goal is to be a positive influence wherever those talks take him, from high schools to prisons.

“I let my life be transparent when talking with youth so they realize you can still win even if you’ve made mistakes,” he says.

“I’m in one of the best places in my life,” says Sammie. “I enjoy being in ministry and meeting the people God puts in my sphere of influence.”

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-an equal opportunity college-

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352.674.2080 | villageheartandvein.com 8575 NE 138th Lane, Suite 203, Lady Lake 708 Physician Court, Suite 2, Leesburg

Beneath the surface Dive into the untold story of Sumter County’s fish hatchery.

STORY: AMANDA VALDERRAMA

≈ PHOTOS: PROVIDED

he Florida Bass Conservation Center in Webster has been a major contributor to the management of the state’s freshwater fisheries for many years.

Known as Richloam State Fish Hatchery prior to extensive renovations in 2007, this unique facility has long played a role in sustaining and enhancing Florida’s diverse fish populations.

According to Hatchery Manager Barron Moody, the Florida Bass Conservation Center’s formal mission is to “protect, conserve and enhance Florida’s unique species of black bass, including the Florida largemouth bass, Suwanee bass, spotted bass, and shoal bass.”

The center, the largest of two freshwater hatcheries managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, contributes significantly to conserving a variety of fish species through stock enhancement.

But the center is much more than a hatchery.

Conservation, innovation and community engagement are the pillars of the facility devoted to fish production and the well-being of

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Florida’s diverse fish populations, research, collaboration and sustaining the state’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

The center plays a vital role in supporting fisheries management in Florida, particularly through stocking programs and maintaining healthy fish populations.

The hatchery responds to the needs and requests of regional fisheries managers, including producing fish for stock enhancement and addressing issues like failed-year classes, habitat degradation, natural disasters and harvest pressure.

Stocking programs support urban and community fishing lakes and aid in the recovery of bass populations in areas with degraded habitats.

By increasing the number of fish in certain water bodies, the hatchery counters habitat degradation, overharvesting and other potential natural disasters.

The Florida Bass Conservation Center has also spawned a diverse variety of freshwater fish species since new technology was added during extensive renovations in the early 2000s.

Last Spring, the hatchery stocked over 400,000 advanced Florida Largemouth bass, produced over

1 million channel catfish, spawned and stocked 360,000 sunshine bass and started production ponds that should produce 400,000 to 500,000 bluegill and an additional 150,000 redear sunfish.

The biggest part of the mission is to produce freshwater fish – primarily the Florida Largemouth bass, a genetically distinct species known for its fast growth and large size.

Additionally, the hatchery is charged with maintaining native fisheries resources and providing quality fishing opportunities, says Barron, who managed 10 South Florida counties (including Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades) while serving as Regional Fisheries Administrator from 2009-‘22 before assuming his current role.

Florida Bass Conservation Center success stories include filling requests for up to one million bass for lakes like

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Last Spring the hatchery stocked over

400,000 advanced Florida largemouth bass

produced over

1 million channel catfish

spawned and stocked over

360,000 sunshine bass

started production ponds that should produce

400,000+ bluegill

and an additional

150,000 redear sunfish

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Lake Apopka and contributing to the re-establishment of bass populations following drawdowns or restorations.

With success comes challenges when transferring harvested fish from production ponds, particularly lake chub suckers, a species similar to trophy largemouth bass.

“Our ponds need to be heavily vegetated for lake chub suckers to spawn and grow effectively; however vegetated ponds make it difficult to get a thorough and efficient harvest of the resulting fingerlings,” Barron says.

The center is also a research facility that focuses on aquatic farming methods to enhance fish production.

The improvements and renovations in 2007 allowed the hatchery to create bass out of season and produce two separate cohorts in a single year, thereby increasing overall production potential.

The development of the Richloam Bass Diet, in which largemouth bass fingerlings are trained to eat a pellet diet, has been a notable achievement.

Several notable achievements have taken place at the hatchery, and more are sure to follow since a team member just completed their master’s degree on the culture and husbandry of lake chub suckers.

The Florida Bass Conservation Center enhances its mission through collaboration with various organizations, agencies, and research institutions.

The fish hatchery partnered with the University of Florida in developing the Richloam Diet. Partnership with the Florida Wildlife Commission involves research related to stock enhancement evaluations and habitat restoration.

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YOUR HEART IS IN GOOD HANDS Expert Cardiac Care | Compassionate Staff | Customized Treatment Villages Cardiology Institute never misses a beat when it comes to your heart health. We specialize in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology with leading-edge heart care and management, testing, and treatment for: • Heart Failure • Abnormal Heart Rhythms • Diseased Heart Valves

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352.401.9888 SUMMERFIELD 17820 SE 109th Ave, Ste 110 M O ST I N SUR A NC E P L A N S AC C E P T E D

C H A N G E for the Better: Make This the Year to Unveil Your Best Self PAID PROMOTION A L FE ATU RE

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ou’ve been thinking about it for years.

Now you’re ready to commit to a surgical procedure to improve your appearance and feel better about yourself.

You’re not alone.

In 2022, there were 1,877,810 surgical cosmetic procedures performed in the

U.S. and 7,353,148 non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

When you’re ready to take that step, it’s crucial to find a skilled surgeon you can trust. Patient satisfaction and positive end results are the goal.

Florida Institute of Plastic Surgery in Lady Lake ranks high in both, which explains why patients are so happy with Franziska Huettner, MD, PhD, FACS.

FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGERY OFFERS A FULL SPECTRUM OF SERVICES TO BENEFIT THE ENTIRE BODY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: BREAST:

• Augmentation • Reduction • Lift • Implant Revision • Reconstruction • Nipple Inversion BODY:

• Tummy Tuck • Liposuction • Arm Lift • Mommy Makeover • Thigh Lift • Autologous Fat Transfer

Meet Dr. Huettner “I was born and raised in East Germany. I remember the wall coming down and what it means to live in a country where you’re not free,” says Dr. Franziska Huettner.

“The wall coming down opened up a whole other opportunity for me to see the world and pursue my dreams.”

There’s no doubt Dr. Huettner’s parents inspired her choice of profession.

Her father was a general surgeon, while her mother was a family practice physician who was well known and much loved in their hometown of Plauen, Germany.

“I always say I have the heart of my mother and the hands of my dad.

That allows me to do the job I love so much,” says Dr. Huettner.

Her parents were dedicated physicians with busy practices, and she saw the commitment this required.

“I experience that now myself.

I wish I could tell my mom, ‘I completely understand where you came from.’ Family always comes first for me,” says Dr. Huettner. “It’s the most important thing.” This includes her beloved dogs--Luke, Bora, and Susi.

The youngest of three children, she knew she wanted to pursue medicine while still in high school.

“I love caring for people, but when I started medical school, I was not thinking plastic surgery,” she says.

FACE:

• Eyelid Surgery • Facelift • Facial Fat Transfer • Injectables • Lip Injections • Earlobe Surgery SKIN:

• Chemical Peels • Laser Resurfacing

She attended medical school at Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena before she had the opportunity to come to the U.S. to pursue further training.

“I was riding with paramedics when 9/11 happened. That experience itself was what started me honoring and forming a bond with first responders,” says Dr. Huettner, whose offices always offer a 20 percent discount to first responders.

“The last 12 months of medical school in Germany I spent in the U.S,” she notes. “That’s when I fell in love with surgery and knew that would be my path.”

After starting in general surgery, she had the privilege of working with some top plastic surgeons.

Dr. Huettner completed residencies in general surgery and plastic surgery. After a prestigious fellowship in aesthetic plastic surgery and one year in practice at the Cleveland Clinic, she held a

three-year position at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, followed by becoming the Program Director of Plastic Surgery at one of the New York City hospitals.

Dr. Huettner is not one to talk about her accomplishments, but she is dual board certified in general surgery and plastic surgery.

Having been a surgeon almost 20 years she has gained a great deal of perspective, which enhances her professional relationship with each patient.

Since opening her own practice in 2017, Dr. Huettner maintains offices in both Lady Lake and New York City.

The Villages’ location celebrates its one-year anniversary this January.

She chose to move here and open Florida Institute of Plastic Surgery in Lady Lake because her mother was supposed to be living here with her. Sadly, her mother passed away unexpectedly last year in the middle of the office renovation process.

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“Some women feel guilty about wanting to do a procedure for themselves.

Our body and our mind are the most precious things we have other than time.”

Honoring the individual “Every time I do a case, I say, ‘I love my job,’” says Dr. Huettner.

“Each individual case has unique characteristics, and you have to develop a plan for each patient. Even if you had 10 people having the same operation, you still need a different plan for each person. Everyone is unique and what works for one person will not work for the other.”

Dr. Huettner offers complimentary consultations, both in person and virtual, so anyone considering a surgical procedure can explore their options and decide what’s best for them.

“Most patients going to a plastic surgeon are excited to have something done, but they really need to know the details about the procedures and the recovery. I’m very transparent with patients so there’s no surprise afterwards as to how they feel and what to expect. I’d rather underpromise and over-deliver than the other way around,” says Dr. Huettner, who follows her post-op patients closely and gives them the support they need.

“The popularity of procedures is driven by celebrities and social media.

There’s so much misinformation about procedures and what people have done,” notes Dr. Huettner, who makes it a priority to fully explain details to every patient before surgery.

When a patient comes to Dr. Huettner for a consultation, she routinely asks, “Why do you want to have this surgery?”

She finds that there is often an emotional aspect involved.

“One patient asked me, ‘Will I be happy after I have this surgery?’ That’s not something the surgeon can answer,” Dr. Huettner says. “Patients should not use plastic surgery to make up for other deficiencies in their life. For example, if the patient just suffered a loss

and is emotionally vulnerable, I may suggest waiting. People often won’t want to hear that. They just want the immediate gratification from changing their appearance, but as a provider, I need to share that information.”

Dr. Huettner points out that every surgical procedure has a risk of complications. Patients need to know exactly what they’re about to experience.

“Patients need to understand there’s really no guarantee. Providers really need to talk about all the risks and benefits,” she says.

For instance, breast enhancement with implants is one surgery where women are often not fully informed of potential risks. They are eager to improve their appearance and may not be aware of the rare lymphoma associated with breast implants, or breast-implant associated illness (BII).

For the first time in history, plastic surgeons are now doing more implant removals (explants) than putting them in (implants).

On occasion a woman who comes in for a consultation will decide against proceeding with surgery once she learns all that is involved in the procedure.

In these situations, Dr. Huettner is glad to have informed the woman so she can make an educated decision.

Her office never pressures anyone into having surgery or procedures.

“As a board-certified plastic surgeon, it’s very disheartening to me to see how little information some patients are given. I wish patients would do more research and ask more questions,” says Dr. Huettner.

This includes asking for the surgeon’s accreditation. At minimum, you should ask if they are board certified in plastic surgery. Ask how many cases they’ve done of the procedure you’re considering and ask to see photos of their past cases. A reputable surgeon is happy to answer questions and show photos.

Dr. Huettner has no problem referring someone elsewhere if she feels she’s not the surgeon for their case. For instance, she doesn’t do hand surgery or rhinoplasty, so she is happy to refer patients needing those services to a provider who can work with them.

Although she is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures, Dr. Huettner is especially known for her breast and body surgeries. Especially rewarding are lift, reduction and reshaping procedures of the breast because of the dramatic and life changing results it can have, she noted.

“I like being able to help a mom of two look into the mirror and feel better about herself,” says Dr. Huettner. “Some women feel guilty about wanting to do a procedure for themselves. Our body and our mind are the most precious things we have other than time. You have to invest in your body and your mind, so if something really bothers you,

you should invest in fixing it. There’s nothing vain about that.”

Any surgical procedure requiring sedation with the patient under general anesthesia is done at the TLC surgery center or in the UF Health The Villages hospital.

Procedures performed with the patient under local anesthesia are done in the procedure room at Dr. Huettner’s office.

Non-surgical options Florida Institute of Plastic Surgery offers more than surgical procedures. There’s also a spa side to the practice that is very popular with clients.

“We want to have a well-rounded menu that appeals not just to females, but also to males,” says Dr. Huettner.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS INCLUDE: • Skin care products • Botox • Face and lip fillers • Microneedling with /without PRP • Facial peels • Facials • Dermaplaning • LED light mask therapy to decrease facial wrinkles • Lymphatic massage

“I now offer post-op lymphatic massage in my office because this improves the contour and increases the healing process after procedures like liposuction,” notes Dr. Huettner.

In 2024, she plans to add new modalities to the office menu, including Broad Band Light therapy (BBL) and Halo Laser treatment.

Plastic surgery and skin care are not just for women; men are equally as conscious about their bodies.

“I want every patient to feel comfortable coming to me for something small like an ear lobe repair or for a tummy tuck or a complete mommy makeover,” says Dr. Huettner. “I feel very grateful to every patient who entrusts us with their care. My goal is to deliver the highest standards of care to this community for many years to come.”

352.325.5555 | DrHuettner.com info@drhuettner.com FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGERY

8550 NE 138th LN, Blg 100, Ste 102 Lady Lake, FL 32159

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Left: Fashion Designer - Trineice Cagua | Jcagua Model - Tetiana Kotvitska Middle: Fashion Designer - Malcolm Staples | Executivedone Model - Rocha Elsa Right: Fashion Designer - A.R. Crown | Crownight Apparel Model - Janee Lashawn

Art

OF

Fashion Empowering youth through creative arts PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

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Fashion Designer Jasmine Bukasa Sew Jasmine Model - Adina Kajoy

Fashion Designer - Gordy Jimenez Gordy's Atelier Model - Lemishka Rodriquez

he Leesburg International Airport witnessed a stunning display of creativity, talent, and fashion on December 9 as the 12th Annual Fashion Runway Showcase took center stage. This remarkable event wasn't just about glamour and style; it showcased the impact of art and fashion on young lives.

“Our mission is to bring awareness to creative arts and the art of fashion,” Vonda Parker says.

Vonda is the owner of Bella Faire Event Productions and Co-Founder of the Fashion Runway Showcase. Together with her husband, Max, they created their nonprofit organization, VMAX For One Community. VMAX was created in 2017 to offer a unique approach to learning through creative arts. Their goal is to help every student discover their form of self-expression through the arts.

“We had designers from all over Florida, Georgia and one that flew in from Washington D.C.,” Vonda says. “Then we had all professional models that have worked New

Ashton McCorvey, Youth Designer

York Fashion Week, internationally and even a couple from right here in Lake County.”

The organization works with elementary kids through age 30. However, not all do runway fashion. Many design for retail or store mannequins, and others do acting and performing.

"Our goal is to instill self-esteem, self-respect, etiquette, grooming, discipline, time management, and confidence in these young individuals,” Vonda says.

The 12th Annual Fashion Runway Showcase was the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by both mentors and students. It also serves as a fundraiser for the youth creative arts program.

As the curtains closed on this year's Fashion Runway Showcase, the impact on the young participants was evident. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the event highlighted the importance of creative arts education and shaping the future of our youth.

Fashion Designer Yvonne Krystman Art4wear Model - Valerie Feliciano

For more information about VMAX For One Community and their creative arts programs, visit www.vmaxforone.com or email Vonda at bellafaire@ymail.com.

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See abo mor e bea ut thi s u t list i in ful pag g on e 4 !

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Theresa@MorrisRealtors.com Theresa sells a property every 29 working hours!

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true!

Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living. Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Vista Model! Enter into your oversized screen porch which features a pass through window and plenty of space for entertaining. Open concept with combination kitchen/living/dining area. Split bedroom design with large closets inside laundry closet with stackable washer and dryer. Less to maintain....more time to enjoy your life! SIMPLE LIFE! MLS# G5076106 // $235,999.

LAKEFRONT 4 ACRES...4 BEDROOM HOME! Nestled on 4 acres just minutes from The Villages, this property is a unique find, offering additional value with a separate half-acre parcel on CR 466A. A driveway shaded by oak trees welcomes you. Pole barn/carport is a great area to house farm equipment or vehicles. Your spacious front porch is the perfect spot for rocking chairs. Through double doors with accompanying screen doors, you’re led into the foyer with access to a wraparound porch. The living area is graced by a wood-burning fireplace. The kitchen boasts built-in cabinetry and leads to the dining room, ideal for hosting gatherings. The primary bedroom and second bedroom both feature walk-in closets and share an oversized bathroom. Bedrooms 3 and 4 have a separate entrance off the screened porch. Additionally, there’s a versatile bonus room with plumbing/sink. Stroll down to the lakefront and relish your own private sandy beach. The possibilities are as limitless as the potential of this exceptional property...true HISTORIC GEM! MLS# G5073458 // $469,900.

ENJOY THIS BEAUTIFUL BRAND NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true! Sought after Sunny Isle Courtyard model! Unique design with main home featuring open concept kitchen/living/dining areas plus two large bedrooms and baths. PLUS...enjoy a potential 3rd bedroom with armoire for a closet in your separate detached cottage (also great for a den/office/man cave) all joined by a wonderful courtyard area great for entertaining! Room for everybody! MLS# G5076490 // $369,999

SECURE GATED COMMUNITY…LUXURY POOL HOME! Step into this 4/4 pool home through wrought iron gates, greeted by an enchanting rock waterfall. Nestled in a secluded enclave, yet conveniently close to town, this residence features a brick paver driveway leading to an expansive 3-CAR GARAGE with a side entrance. You’ll be welcomed by an inviting front porch and elegant double doors that open into a spacious great room/dining area, complete with a gas log fireplace and custom shelving. The generously sized den/office or formal living room offers versatility to suit your needs. The kitchen boasts ample cabinet space, snack bar, and a cozy breakfast area. The primary suite features a tray ceiling with double crown molding, His/Her walk-in closets, separate raised vanities, a glass walk-in shower, a water closet, and a luxurious soaking tub with soothing jets. French doors open up to the lanai, providing direct access to the screened-in pool, complete with a built-in spa. A convenient tri-split plan leads to bedroom 2, accompanied by a guest bath featuring a tub/ shower combo and a single vanity. Bedroom 3 boasts a walk-in closet and its own private bath with tub/shower and single vanity. Bedroom 4 offers a deep walk-in closet and private access to the pool bath, which features an oversized shower, dual shower-heads, a raised vanity, and a French door leading to the lanai/pool area. This home is adorned with granite countertops, soaring volume and tray ceilings, crown molding, 8 ft. interior doors, and tile floors throughout (no carpet!). The interior laundry room features custom cabinets and a stainless steel sink. MLS# G5068943 // $850,000.

BRAND NEW HOME!...$199,900! Enjoy the SIMPLE LIFE… in your NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true!

Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living. Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you!

CUTE AND BUDGET-FRIENDLY Madeira Model! Discover all your essentials in this expansive home boasting a generous front porch that welcomes you into a roomy kitchen/living/ dining combination. The kitchen showcases a bar island with a built-in sink and dishwasher. The oversized bathroom features a glass walk-in shower, while the primary suite offers dual walk-in closets. MLS# G5076139 // $199,999..

GUARD GATED 24/7...REMARKABLE POOL HOME! A brick paver driveway leads to an inviting side-entry garage, accommodating two vehicles plus a separate golf cart garage! Step inside a grand foyer opening to a den/office through elegant double glass French doors. The heart of this home is the spacious great room, with tray ceilings and recessed lighting. Triple glass sliding doors effortlessly recess and connect the interior to the lanai, where an in-ground saltwater pool awaits, complete with year-round heating, for endless swimming pleasure. HUGE kitchen with oversized island/ snack bar area and spacious dining area! Enjoy the walk-in pantry and cabinets galore for storage. Your oversized primary suite features a French door to the lanai and pool area. Two separate walk-in closets offer ample storage space, while the bathrooms leads to well-appointed laundry room, equipped with a washer and dryer. Split plan design places bedrooms 2 and 3 on opposite side of the home, sharing a guest bathroom with raised vanity and a tub/shower combination. Throughout the residence, you’ll find tasteful upgrades like granite counters, crown molding and stylish plantation shutters. Plus, enjoy the added benefit of low electric bills with energy efficient double pane windows and pool heat pump! Experience luxury living where every detail has been carefully considered to offer comfort, style, and security. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this your dream home! MLS# G5072929 // $669,000.

HOME WITH A HEART! Move in Ready! Premier golf frontage lot, in a gated community boasting 24/7 manned security! Solid block construction, crown molding and granite countertops throughout! Spacious great room and dining area with cathedral ceilings. Kitchen is equipped with high end appliances. Three bedrooms & a den/office. Primary suite includes a spacious walk-in closet plus access to lanai!

Primary bath is generously sized. Bedroom 2 offers a built-in Murphy bed and semi-walk-in closet. Bedroom 3 boasts large wall closets and golf course views! Guest bath has a tub/shower combo, a single vanity, and a linen closet. Inside laundry room with a new, front load Washer & Dryer! Extradeep garage! MLS# G5075040 // $444,900

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Lynn Haynes Multi-Million Dollar Producer

WELCOME TO OAK RUN! This two-bedroom residence is perfect for both seasonal living and full-time residency. Nestled in a picturesque community, this home offers a tranquil pond view that can be enjoyed from the living room, dining area, and Florida room. Enjoy breathtaking views of serene pond right from the comfort of your living space.

352.516.0903

Lynn@LynnHaynesSellsFlorida.com

WELCOME TO YOUR DREAM HOME! This lovely three-bedroom, two-bathroom pool home with an office offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style. With over 2300 sq ft, this property is a gem conveniently located in Leesburg. Enjoy the open living and dining room with sliding glass doors that lead to the tiled lanai and a screened enclosed pool. The kitchen, dinette, and family room are seamlessly connected with sliding glass doors leading to the pool and a privacy-fenced backyard.

The kitchen boasts newer appliances, a closet pantry, breakfast bar, and solid surface countertops. Swim, sunbathe, read, cook out, entertain, and have fun poolside in your own private retreat. The large primary bedroom features glass doors leading to the pool, walk-in closets, and a spacious ensuite bathroom with dual sinks, tub, and shower. Enjoy privacy with the split bedroom plan, and a convenient office space directly off the foyer. Upgraded and Well-Maintained including the roof that was installed in 2017, and the property features custom landscaping, an expanded driveway, and a two-car garage. Don’t miss the chance to call this stunning property home.

Put it on your list and schedule a viewing today!

ENJOY THE COUNTRY CLUB LIFESTYLE in this 3/2 villa with a peek a boo views of Lake Griffin in Harbor Hills which is gated with staff 24 hours. Beautiful views with a maintenance free lifestyle including the exterior of the home from outside walls, roof repairs (excluding replacement), lawn/water irrigation plus complete yard care included in HOA. The moment you enter this home you will see that the 2000 square feet of living space is well cared for and move in ready. The living, dining and bonus/family room are open to one another with custom built in cabinets and a FIREPLACE. Call today!

ELEGANT LUXURY AT ITS FINEST in this executive Lake Myrtle Pool house on approximately 4.14 acres gated and fenced nestled between Lake Myrtle Shores and Wingspread. Upon entering the double leaded glass front doors you will see the infinity edge grotto pool with waterfall, views of Lake Myrtle and the upgraded finishes.

This open floorplan has 10-foot ceilings and crown molding throughout the house, with porcelain tile floors everywhere except the guest rooms. The formal dining room has 12-foot ceilings and is open to the formal living room that has a 16-foot lake front window, custom beams and stone-faced propane gas fireplace. Call Today!

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

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

20 ACRES OF PRISTINE LAND cross fenced ready for you to build your ranch house and barn for cattle or horses. The eastern end has approximately 250 x 70 feet that is wet but could be formed into a pond. One owner since the late 1800s and there may be additional adjoining property available at the right price. There is a 200 foot well that has not been tapped and a canal at the western back end of the property. Bring your builder because you will love this quiet area waiting for you.

We are committed and passionate professionals who puts our clients' best interests and satisfaction above all else.

Our team’s determination to cater to our clients' specific needs coupled with our market expertise, attention to detail and superior negotiating skills allows you to receive first class service.

morrisrealtors.com

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Kim

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352.874.5906 Kim@MorrisRealtors.com Kim Connects… Your Real Estate Connection

MOST WANTED LIST! A FLOOR PLAN TO FLOOR YOU! Awesome layout makes life easier in this 4/2.5 Bath Home! Laminate wood flooring graces the main living areas downstairs, leading you through the dining areas overlooking the spacious living room.

A half bath is nestled between the living and dining spaces. The Kitchen features granite countertops, upgraded cabinets, and a kitchen nook area. The family room opens to a covered patio through sliders with plantation shutters. Upstairs, all four bedrooms await, with the primary suite standing out with a walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom. The second and third bedrooms are thoughtfully placed across from the primary suite. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this your forever home! MLS# G5077083 // $335,000.

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true! Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living. Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Lower your cost of living with this innovative approach to home ownership. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who are still working or retired. Even though you don’t own the ground under your feet, you have all the transferable rights through a recorded survey showing your entitled access to all common areas and amenities, as well as the property your home is built on for the perpetual term of your 99-year lease! While this is not a condo it has some of the same advantages that enable you to lower costs through common use rights, but unlike a condo, there are never any assessments which means the maintenance and or replacement of the roads, lighting, and all amenities are covered in the modest monthly lot fee. NO ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENTS IN THE COMMUNITY! NO CDD FEES! You have one affordable “lifestyle” fee, plus a monthly lot fee, giving you incredible benefits that include…security gates, streetlights, water, sewer, trash, irrigation, cable, internet, lawn care with weed spray & once a year mulching, and much more! MLS# G5076127 // $254,999.

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true! Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living.

Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Lower your cost of living with this innovative approach to home ownership.

This is a wonderful opportunity for those who are still working or retired. Your exclusive access to these private amenities also comes with organized activities including yoga and fitness classes with dedicated staff at your service! MLS# G5076504 // $199,999.

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME!! Look no further…dreams do come true! Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living.

Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Lower your cost of living with this innovative approach to home ownership.

This is a wonderful opportunity for those who are still working or retired. You have one affordable “lifestyle” fee, plus a monthly lot fee, giving you incredible benefits.

DEVELOPER OFFERING BUYER INCENTIVES TO PURCHASE! MLS#G5076143 // $254,999.

OVER $128,000 WORTH OF UPGRADES! MOVE IN READY! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW Roof, Solar Panels, Kitchen, Paint, Flooring, Bathrooms, etc. A Thousand words can’t begin to describe this picturesque and exquisite 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home. The thoughtfully designed split and open floor plan creates an airy ambiance and maximizes privacy. Entertain in style with the brand-new kitchen, featuring stunning Sensa granite countertops that includes a 15-year transferrable warranty, center island with farmhouse sink, state-of-the-art stainless-steel appliances, including a coffee-making refrigerator and overlooks the dinette and family room. Retreat to the en-suite and enjoy the brand-new bathroom that includes brand new cabinets, granite counter tops, double sinks, brand-new walk-in shower and did I mention the oversized walk in closet. 3 additional bedrooms are found on the other sides of the home including another remodeled bathroom that features a new shower/tub combo. Step onto the new extended lanai and experience outdoor living at its finest. The fenced backyard provides a secure haven for your loved ones, complete with a convenient shed. Don’t miss the chance to own this showcase property just minutes away from Downtown Eustis. Let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality! MLS#G5072636 // $443,900.

FR ESTIMEE ATES LICENSED & INSURED | BASED IN LAK E CO UN T Y AN D S ERVIN G 4 8 S T AT ES

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integrity // experience // results

Voted Best Of The Best 2019 | 2020 | 2021

Jo Leen

Cooper Howe Residential Sales POOL HOME ON 1 ACRE IN ROYAL TRAILS 3/2 home with 2 car garage. Living room with fireplace. Open floor plan. Screened in pool with huge back yard. Located just minutes from Publix and CVS, and an easy trip to downtown Eustis or Mount Dora.

Take advantage of country living with access to the Orlando attractions, beaches and multiple historic downtown districts via the 429 connector. The community has a pavilion, playground, and park which hosts events throughout the year. Deeded access to private Lake Norris, as well as a private community dock for your family to enjoy fishing off the dock or playing in the community playground. Bring your family and enjoy the country lifestyle. MLS# G5076499 // $399,900.

EUSTIS-DEEDED, LAKE ACCESS TO EAST CROOKED LAKE! 3/3 home with an open split floor plan. UPDATED AND REMODELED. LVP flooring throughout. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded appliances and farm house sink. Family room/ dining area overlooking the huge backyard. Spacious en suite offers a walk-in closet. Inside laundry. Privately fenced in courtyard. Deck area out back. New Roof (2019). Septic and drain field (2021). Outside freshly painted (2022). Whole house Culligan water filtration system (2022). New plex plumbing lines. MOVE IN READY. ALL THE HARD WORK IS DONE. Home is situated on almost 3/4 of an acre with a fenced in backyard. Access and boat ramp just a walk away.

Minutes from Downtown Mount Dora, and close to shopping and hospital. MLS# G5076985 // $449,900.

352.267.0770

JoLeen@MorrisRealtors.com The Results Will Move You!

DISCOVER YOUR OWN HIDDEN GEM in the beautiful waterfront community of Yalaha! This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom fully furnished home of 1760 Sq.ft. is your ideal tropical paradise. Move in ready and looks like it was decorated by a profession, with ceramic tile throughout, quartz counters tops, custom lighting, stainless steel appliances, and eat in bar in the kitchen. Enjoy a large dining room with a wonderful view, and an added family room with built in shelving. Step out to your huge backyard with a patio for those afternoon BBQ’s. In the summer, cool off in the heated screened in pool, by the waters edge in the community clubhouse. Fans of boating will love the community pier and boat slips (waiting list) to spend days out in the beautiful Chain of Lakes. Resort-style living yet close to the Florida Turnpike and only 15 minutes away from downtown Mount Dora’s shopping, unique restaurants and breath-taking seaplane park along the Tavares waterfront. Don’t miss your chance to make this Florida paradise your own. Make your move. MLS# G5073321 // $479,900.

HIDDEN GEM IN YALAHA... 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage townhome 1 STORY in WATERWOOD. NEW TILE ROOF IN 2018, AND WATER HEATER. NEW LUXURY VINYL through out. Large covered lanai WITH NEW ALUMINUM FRAMING AND SCREENING IN 2023. UPDATED BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN. Beautiful clubhouse and heated screened in pool on the waters edge. Community pier to enjoy those sunsets and sunrises. Boat slips and storage area (waiting list) very affordable.

Located close to the Florida Turnpike and just 15 minutes away to the Tavares Waterfront Seaplane park and unique restaurants and minutes away from downtown Mount Dora with quaint shopping and a variety of restaurants. Enjoy boating on the CHAIN OF LAKES TO ENJOY EATING OUT OR THOSE BEAUTIFUL SUNSETS. YOUR OWN TROPICAL PARADISE. MLS# G5074586 // $309,900.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

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

We are committed and passionate professionals who puts our clients' best interests and satisfaction above all else.

Our team’s determination to cater to our clients' specific needs coupled with our market expertise, attention to detail and superior negotiating skills allows you to receive first class service.

morrisrealtors.com

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PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT SERVICES REN TAL ANALYSIS:

F OR OWNER S:

M ARKE T ING :

O CCUPIED PR O PER T I E S:

• R ecommendation on how to get the most from your property • A nalysis based on comparable properties and market movement • Online with Multiple Listing Service • Zillow.com • Yard Signage • Local media outlets

INSPE C T I O NS :

• Move in walk thru inspection in writing along with photographs of the property conditions at the time of lease signing and when tenant vacates • Bi-Annual inspection of occupied property

REALTOR® // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Serving Lake, Sumter & Marion Counties Since 2015

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• A ll adult applicants are prescreened for credit, criminal and eviction history • A ll lease agreements are prepared by an attorney • C ollect and handle all payments (rent, security deposit, pet deposits) • Post late payment notices • Handle complete eviction process • Operate within the Landlord Tenant Law • C omply with Federal “Fair Housing Act” • Handle repairs with licensed, insured and bonded vendors

352.365.6900

TREY HALIDAY

TREY@MORRISREALTORS.COM

Dust Busters of Lake County

352-409-3595 6

• Monthly and annual income and expense reports along with 1099 statement • We can pay mortgage payments from rental income if desired by owner

integrity // experience // results

PREMIUM CLEANING

Deep Cleaning • Regular House Cleaning Post Construction Cleaning Move in/out & Commercial Cleaning

Info@DustBustersofLakeCounty.com

• Reliable • Responsible • Experienced • Affordable • Licensed • Insured

References Available

Judd Dickerson

Holly Dickerson

352.516.7809

352.516.7933

Judd@MorrisRealtors.com

MLS# G5076124 // $229,999

Holly@MorrisRealtors.com

MLS# G5076475 // $199,999

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME!! Look no further…dreams do come true! Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living. Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Lower your cost of living with this innovative approach to home ownership. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who are still working or retired. Even though you don’t own the ground under your feet, you have all the transferable rights through a recorded survey showing your entitled access to all common areas and amenities, as well as the property your home is built on for the perpetual term of your 99-year lease! While this is not a condo it has some of the same advantages that enable you to lower costs through common use rights, but unlike a condo, there are never any assessments which means the maintenance and or replacement of the roads, lighting, and all amenities are covered in the modest monthly lot fee. NO ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENTS IN THE COMMUNITY! NO CDD FEES! You have one affordable “lifestyle” fee, plus a monthly lot fee, giving you incredible benefits that include…security gates, streetlights, water, sewer, trash, irrigation, cable, internet, lawn care with quarterly weed spray & once a year mulching, and much more! Plus, private road and amenity maintenance are all included. You can enjoy a sophisticated clubhouse, fitness Room, and swimming pool as well as walking trails, grills, fire pits, community garden, pet park, pickleball & even future bocci courts! Your exclusive access to these private amenities also comes with organized activities including yoga and fitness classes with dedicated staff at your service! DEVELOPER OFFERING BUYER INCENTIVES TO PURCHASE to include options of discount for cash, buy down on mortgage rates or closing cost assistance!! Contact Holly for more information.

17.5 WOODED ACRES of direct lakefront property on the pristine Lake Deaton. This is a rare opportunity to purchase this large of a parcel directly on an approximately 500 acre Lake. This offering is for two parcels, Sumter County ID: G23-050 and G23-022, currently zoned RR5 within Sumter County. The adjacent property is zoned R2M, so one may assume the same zoning could be assigned to these two parcels. Upon rezoning, the property could yield seven lakefront lots at almost 80’ wide, then with roads and drainage, the remaining land could possibly be divided into 18 interior one half acre lots, see concept site plan in listing, this is a concept only and has not been approved. Imagine the potential that this type of development could have with its close proximity to hospitals, medical plazas, shopping, The Villages, and so much more. This could be the next exclusive address. Or, it may be possible to seek proper zoning for a lakefront RV park, use your imagination and take advantage of this offering. There is an old mobile home, barn, and well on site, but the land is the value. All information provided is assumed to be accurate but must be confirmed by the buyer. MLS# G5065102 // $2,400,000.

Contact Judd for more information.

ALMOST AN ACRE in a well established area of medical offices and right next door to the new Hotel. This lot can be accessed from S. Lake St. and from the new Venetian Isle Park Rd. and is diagonally located from UF Health Leesburg Hospital. MLS# G5061046 // $300,000.

Contact Judd for more information.

AMAZING INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY to own a completely full, four tenant retail space. The tenants have a long track record of success. 466 is a major corridor for The Villages with over 23,000 vehicles per day according to FDOT. Don’t miss this extremely rare opportunity to own an investment property in The Villages, America’s premier Active Adult Retirement Community.

MLS# G5053930 // $6,600,000.

Contact Judd for more information.

BRING YOUR BUSINESS to this prime Villages location with a traffic count of over 23,500 per day. With great visibility directly on CR 466, this Commercial Plaza a booming with successful businesses. This tenant space includes exterior signage by tenant. The front portion of the space is brightly lit with plenty of natural lighting for open retail, or could be built out to fit your office or medical needs. The rear portion contains three nicely appointed offices, a conference room, a break area, and two restrooms. Tenant pays for all improvements..

MLS# G5075691 // $26.00/Per SqFt. Contact Judd for more information. morrisrealtors.com

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Scott Strem

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Realtor®

352.978.3428 Scott@MorrisRealtors.com Serious About Selling Multi-Million Dollar Producer

BEAUTIFUL SPLIT BEDROOM 4/2 floor plan in a well established community and oversized lot, close to the Villages. Home features numerous recent upgrades including Roof (2016) and new Double Pane Windows (2016) plus NEW A/C in the last year. The spacious floor plan features formal dining, living room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace, PLUS a recently remodeled kitchen with granite countertops and Stainless Steel appliances including a Double Oven! Master bathroom was remodeled recently as well with custom tiled walk-in shower and double sink vanity with upgraded countertop and fixtures. MLS# G5073952 // $339,900.

EXCELLENT INVESTMENT AND/OR OWNER/OCCUPANT OPPORTUNITY! 3 Medical/professional building sale!!! All 3 buildings have NEW ROOFS. Two of the buildings are leased to long term medical tenants, with one building currently available to be leased or occupied by new owner if desired.

Excellent US HWY 441 frontage and visibility across street from Lake Sumter State College, with approx 33,600 FDOT Avg Trips per Day. Just 6 miles to LRMC hospital, and quick access to The Villages! MLS# G5076182 // $1,250,000.

13.28 ACRES w/860ft highway frontage on US 27/441, the only 6 Lane Highway through the Villages, Florida.

Virtually the only piece of vacant land of this size in the area which is totally on level ground, at roadside eye level. Can be seen from 1000 feet away. City utilities available. St Johns Water Management permit obtained, to expedite build out. Massive billboard highly visible.

Likely traffic light at NE corner. Nearly 30,000 vehicles pass daily. Zoned PUD-Industrial with C-2 uses also allowed. MLS# G5047877 // $3,580,000

CLASS A OFFICE/MEDICAL BUILDING with 1,780 Sq Ft available for lease. Premier location across from The Villages, Brownwood-SR 44 with AADT 24,000 cars per day on SR 44. Building is next door to Sumter Summit Surgery Center, Orlando Health and Lake Eye Associates. Owner is currently building out interior, still time to customize finishes to your liking! MLS# G5076691 // $30/Per Sq Ft +NNN.

FANTASTIC COMMERCIAL VACANT LAND PARCEL! Just over 1.5 ACRES zoned C3 in City of Leesburg with city water and sewer running along property and available for hook up! Great location with excellent visibility at the corner of Thomas Rd and Martin Luther King Blvd behind Walmart.

City of Leesburg COMMERCIAL C3 Zoning allows for a wide variety of approvable uses, please see permissible use table attached. MLS# G5067917 // $275,000.

10,800 SF INDUSTRIAL BUTLER STEEL building in Leesburg’s Greenleaf Business Center Park. Designed as divisible into two equal units with office area and restrooms, separate meters. Clear Span, 20’ + Eve height, 22’ Ridge height, Two Grade Level, 12x16 overhead doors, approx. 1000 sq ft finished offices, building is fully insulated. City sewer & water, Zoned M-1 industrial.

Close to FL Turnpike, I-75, The Villages; excellent location!

Owner prefers to sell, but will consider lease offers at $12 psf.! MLS# G5074275 // $1,399,900

WELL MAINTAINED 3 bedroom 2 bath home! This lovely light and brightsplit floor plan is sure to please with volume ceilings and spacious rooms. The kitchen has lots of cabinet space, an island with a sink, and nice breakfast nook looking out to back yard. There is a separate formal living and dining room area as well as a large family room, perfect for entertaining.

Low maintenance landscaping and 2 car garage.

MLS# G5067815 // $350,000.

FR ESTIMEE ATES LICENSED & INSURED | BASED IN LAK E CO UN T Y AN D S ERVIN G 4 8 S T AT ES

Voted Best Of The Best 2019 | 2020 | 2021

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Michael Barrett

Residential Sales

WAKE UP TO SUNRISES!! Embrace the opportunity to construct your dream home on this expansive lot which boasts over half of an acre. This property is ideally situated along a wide canal that connects to the chain of lakes. Located in a well-established community, this property offers that convenience of being close to downtown Leesburg, the hospital, parks, and all the amenities you desire. With easy access to Orlando, this lot, complete with a boat dock, provides the perfect canvas for your future home. Call today and start your new life on the water. MLS# G5073441 // $194,900.

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY! The home boasts just shy of 2,600 square feet and is ready for a new owner! Originally a Custom Built home featuring a split bedroom plan, there are upgrades throughout such as a double sided fireplace, cathedral ceilings, a spacious Master with a jacuzzi tub, built-in storage cabinets, and spacious room sizes. There is a large formal dining room as well as eating space in the kitchen. There is also a formal living area and a large bonus room for entertaining. or Family room space. The circular drive and corner lot add the perfect touch. Will need some TLC so priced to sell!! MLS#G5070526 // $349,900.

352.255.5710

Michael@MorrisRealtors.com

PERFECT LOCATION to build your home on 1.26-acre lot on Lake Griffin Road within city limits and close to The Villages.

MLS#G5077172 // $49,900

Brokers Title Leesburg

of Leesburg, LLC

352.728.6707

B

info@brokerstitle.net 9800 US Hwy. 441 Suite 106

rokers Title is one of the largest independently owned insurance companies in the state of Florida. Let our experienced team of professionals work for you when purchasing, selling, or refinancing your property. Brokers Title has been an established leader in real estate transactions for over 18 years, and we value you most. In fact our reputation is built on it.

• Partnership opportunities • Short Sales • REOs • Foreclosures • Staff Attorney • Mobile Closings Seminars • 24 hour turnaround on HUDs • Title Searches • 1031 Exchanges

morrisrealtors.com

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Lindsay Sanders Realtor®

352.661.0232

Lindsay@MorrisRealtors.com

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DISCOVER THE TRANQUILITY of LAKEFRONT living on Deer Lake with this 4.86-acre property. Boasting 3 acres of high and dry land, this is the perfect canvas for your dream home. The land is mostly cleared and completely walkable with several majestic pine trees. The land comes equipped with an RV hookup, a well, and two utility buildings for added convenience. This location is ideal for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking peace and quiet as it is located on a dead end road. You’ll find yourself less than an hour away from both Orlando and the beach. Don’t miss this opportunity to create your own lakeside paradise. MLS# G5074280 // $149,900.

ENJOY THE SIMPLE LIFE…IN YOUR NEW HOME! Look no further…dreams do come true! Simple Life community fosters a sense of calmness and relaxation, inviting its residents to embrace a simpler, more serene way of living. Enjoy a maintenance and carefree lifestyle with a secure, gated entrance. These space efficient, uniquely designed “Cottage Style” homes, will amaze you! Lower your cost of living with this innovative approach to home ownership. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who are still working or retired. Even though you don’t own the ground under your feet, you have all the transferable rights through a recorded survey showing your entitled access to all common areas and amenities, as well as the property your home is built on for the perpetual term of your 99-year lease! While this is not a condo it has some of the same advantages that enable you to lower costs through common use rights, but unlike a condo, there are never any assessments which means the maintenance and or replacement of the roads, lighting, and all amenities are covered in the modest monthly lot fee. NO ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENTS IN THE COMMUNITY! NO CDD FEES! You have one affordable “lifestyle” fee, plus a monthly lot fee, giving you incredible benefits that include…security gates, streetlights, water, sewer, trash, irrigation, cable, internet, lawn care with quarterly weed spray & once a year mulching, and much more! Plus, private road and amenity maintenance are all included. You can enjoy a sophisticated clubhouse, fitness Room, and swimming pool as well as walking trails, grills, fire pits, community garden, pet park, pickleball & even future bocci courts! Your exclusive access to these private amenities also comes with organized activities including yoga and fitness classes with dedicated staff at your service! DEVELOPER OFFERING BUYER INCENTIVES TO PURCHASE to include options of discount for cash, buy down on mortgage rates or closing cost assistance!!

DISCOVER A BEAUTIFUL 2-bed, 2-bath haven that combines elegance with functionality. The kitchen is equipped with a large island, providing space for barstools. Luxurious master suite with double walk-in closets, double sinks, and a walk-in shower. Enjoy a screened-in porch directly off the master suite. Whether it’s a morning coffee on the front porch or an evening breeze on the back, these spaces offer a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living for your relaxation and enjoyment. MLS# G5076111 // $244,999.

CHARMING HOME! 2-bed, 2-bath home with open living and kitchen areas. Gorgeous kitchen boasts soft close cabinets, quartz counters, and a spacious island. Home offers a dedicated dining area. Master suite offers a walk-in closet, walk-in shower, and double sinks for added luxury. Home features front and back porches, inviting you to unwind and relish moments of tranquility.! MLS# G5076450 // $254,999.

EXPLORE THE CHARM of this spacious 2-bed, 2-bath main house (1085 sq. ft.), complemented by a cozy guest cottage (275 sq. ft.) featuring a full bath. Your sanctuary is complete with a detached garage, all thoughtfully arranged to form a tranquil courtyard, providing a private oasis for relaxation. Kitchen showcases soft-close cabinets, quartz counters, and a large island. Convenient laundry room adjacent to the kitchen. Master suite offers double walk-in closets, a beautifully tiled walk-in shower, and double sinks.

Schedule your private showing today. MLS# G5076458 // $365,999.

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Camie Kennedy Realtor®

EXPLORE THE CHARM OF LADY LAKE! This three-bedroom two bath home is nestled in a peaceful setting with a nice sized yard. It offers easy access to the conveniences and shopping in Lady Lake, with The Villages and its exciting attractions just a short distance away. This home is a fantastic option as a second residence, a tranquil retreat, or even a rental income investment. With no HOA fees and endless possibilities, don’t let this opportunity slip away! MLS# G5073352 // $135,000.

352.408.4668

Camie@MorrisRealtors.com Camie Can!

DISCOVER 26+ BREATHTAKING ACRES in the prestigious equestrian community of The Preserve at Oak Hill. These two adjoining parcels, C31B058 and C31B059, offer a rare opportunity for idyllic living with stunning sunsets and access to riding trails. The gated entrance, winding roads, and elegant homes within the community create an atmosphere of refined living. Conveniently located just minutes from I-75 and the Florida Turnpike, you’ll have easy access to travel and nearby shopping destinations like The Brownwood Paddock Square, Publix, Lowes, and charming local restaurants. This is your chance to own a piece of paradise; Don’t wait to seize this exceptional opportunity.

MLS# G5074035 // $599,900.

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Joan DeFoe Realtor®

352.516.6843 Joan@MorrisRealtors.com Real Estate “Little Giant” // Multi-Million Dollar Producer // Premier Agent

RETIRING?...LET’S GET STARTED WITH RETIREMENT! This amazing 2/2 home is located at COACHWOOD EAST IN the Lake Front City of Leesburg, Florida. Kitchen includes pantry and small breakfast bar. Large Living Room and Dining overlooks front screened in porch. Large Utility Room is attached to home. Attached covered carport with extra parking pad. Master Bed features 2 walk-in closets. Master Bath has separate dressing area with sink and closet. Water closet includes commode and Shower & Tub combo. Guest bedroom features 2 closets and built-in dresser.

Guest Bath has walk-in shower and linen closet. MLS# G5071427 // $129,900.

PERFECT TIMING! HAPPY NEW YEAR, HAPPY TO NEW BEGINNINGS in this extraordinarily, well appointed property! This appealing home is situated on a corner lot. Located in the amazing and awesome community of COACHWOOD EAST. You will find many, many upgrades for this amazing property, that includes 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, with walk-in closets, eat-in kitchen, built in china cabinet in dining area, sunny Florida Room, very large workshop, and laundry room. See list of upgrades in attachments, but just a few include: new paint inside, upgraded ceiling fan, living room, light fixtures in kitchen, new faucets in guest bath and kitchen, carpet tiles in workshop and laundry, (16) new levelor blinds throughout the home, shower door master bath, newer irrigation system, landscape timbers & scallop pavers, house has been wired for generator (easy plug-in) See list of all the extras. Enjoy the Florida sunshine in your bright and spacious Florida room. Kitchen overlooks bright and lovely covered porch and lovely landscaped yard. Call for an appointment today! MLS# G5076741 // $199,900.

Jordan Holmes Jordan Holmes HOME • AUTO • COMMERCIAL • LIFE

HOME • AUTO • COM MERCI A L • LIFE

from a name you trust. ……from a name you trust.

352-326-4007| |www.insureleesburg.com www.insureleesburg.com darrschackowinsurance.com DSI352-326-4007

SI

©2011 Darr Schackow Insurance. All rights reserved.©

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Lauren Fickett Realtor®

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! This 4/3.5 home is located just minutes from downtown. Light and bright open floor plan. Kitchen with center island features stainless steel appliances, cabinet and counter space, closet pantry and coffee bar.

Separate dinette area overlooks the spacious living area. The master suite on the first floor features a walk in closet, dual sinks, a garden bath and glass shower. Iron spindle staircase leads upstairs to another living area plus 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

Inside laundry room as well. Evenings can be enjoyed on your screened in back lanai overlooking the fenced in backyard. Call today! MLS# G5075581 // $499,900.

352.636.2167

Lauren@MorrisRealtors.com Leave It To Lauren!

10 ACRES!! This beautiful 10 acre parcel is now available for you to bring your builder and start your dream home here! Great location right outside of all of The Villages amenities plus just a short ride to Ocala. Another great perk to this property is it is located right near I75 as well making all of the convivences of travel easy for you. Bring your horses to enjoy the amazing lush green pasture. NO HOA! MLS# G5072334 // $345,000.

ADORABLE AND AFFORDABLE! This cute 2/1 has great potential to make an additional bedroom. Galley kitchen with newly painted cabinets has great counter space.

Large dining area is the perfect area for entertaining and this home also features a cozy living area. The family room could easily be converted to a large master suite. New paint throughout, fenced in backyard, great location. NO HOA! MLS# G5074278 // $283,000.

LOCATION...LOCATION...LOCATION!! Ever wanted to live near The Villages but not inside of it? This 1.2 acre lot is located just miles to all of The Villages amenities!

Enjoy all of the shopping, restaurants and so much more.

NO HOA! Bring your own builder and custom clear the lot to your wants and needs on this dead end road. Jump on this great lot quickly before someone else does!

MLS# G5073930 // $115,000.

LOCATION-LOCATION-LOCATION!! The low maintenance townhome in Segovia at World Commerce Center you have been waiting for! Light and bright and open floor plan. Kitchen features cabinet and counter space plus stainless steel appliances and eat in space that overlooks the large living area. Downstairs features a half bath and mudroom. Master with tray ceilings, large walk in closet with built in shelving, double sinks and glass shower.

Bathroom #2 features a tub/shower combo. Upstairs laundry room. You will love the serene back screened in patio. This location is just a few miles off of i95.

MLS# G5076552 // $349,900.

BE PREPARED TO SAY WOW! This custom built home is situated on almost 7 acres! The kitchen features a 13 ft island, a great amount of cabinet and counter space, top of the line appliances and a butlers pantry. The master suite has double sinks, glass shower and his and her closets. Bedroom 3 is an office with a stunning built in desk. Bathroom 2 features a raised sink and claw foot tub. Salt water pool and spa features sun shelf. Oversized 28x38 garage. Park your horse trailer, tractor, or camper under the pole barn with additional storage, 50 amp hook up, and water. MLS# G5074019 // $1,500,000.

LAKE WEIR ACCESS! Bring your builder and build your dream home on this 1 acre lot in the beautiful gated community of Orangewood. Property is cleared and ready to be built on! Included in the hoa with this lot is your own boat slip and community beach area for Orangewood property owners only. After a day of boating on Lake Weir all day enjoy dinner at either Eaton’s Beach or Gator Joe’s! Central location near all The Villages amenities! Call today to start enjoy lake life tomorrow!! MLS# G5070864 // $130,000.

JordanHolmes Holmes Jordan HOME • AUTO • COM MERCI • LIFE HOME • AUTO • COM MERCI A LA L • LIFE

from a name you trust. …… from a name you trust.

DSI DSI

352-326-4007 | www.insureleesburg.com darrschackowinsurance.com 352-326-4007 | www.insureleesburg.com

©2011 Darr Schackow Insurance.

Allreserved. rights reserved. ©2011 Darr Schackow Insurance.

All rights

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Brittany Meany

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352.348.4191

Brittany@MorrisRealtors.com

GORGEOUS FOUR BEDROOM HOME in the GATED community of Majestic Oaks! This beautiful community sits right on Lake Griffin with convenient access to the chain of lakes by way of your own community boat dock. Enjoy safety and security with a completely gated community. Sitting on just shy of a third of an acre, you arrive to a spacious front yard and gorgeous double entry doors. Once inside, you will appreciate the tasteful decor and functional floorplan. The Main living room offers sliding doors to the rear porch and a stunning electric fireplace. Entertaining is easy with a formal dining room and a dinette area as well as a spacious center island kitchen. You will love cooking here with a gas stove, granite countertops, a convenient wall oven, plenty of cabinet space, tile backsplash, and a ton of workspace. Opening directly to the Family room and dinette area, this kitchen makes a great gathering space! Your Master bedroom features a spacious en-suite bathroom with a garden tub, separate his/her sinks and plenty of closet space. You will appreciate the bonus sitting area in the master that could be used as office space or a cozy reading nook. Separated on the other wing of the house, the guest bedrooms share a separate bathroom with double sinks. You will also love the three-car spacious garage, inside laundry area, and back patio. Enjoy peace of mind with a 2023 AC unit that comes with a 10 year warranty. This home has it all and with close proximity to the growing downtown Leesburg area with restaurants and shopping. MLS# G5076966 // $540,000.

SERVICES: Home Inspections Wind Mitigations 4–Point Inspections Roof Certifications Termite Inspections 352.602.9819 14

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J6881@yahoo.com

Call toda us get y y to inspe our sche ction dule d!

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Lena Williams Realtor®

STEP INTO THIS INVITING 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom pool home, tucked away in a serene residential neighborhood that offers the no HOA dues. The home boasts a cozy living room with wood laminate flooring, a charming dining area featuring tile, and a kitchen adorned with stainless steel appliances complemented by a stylish tile backsplash. A New roof was just completed a few months ago! The convenience of an oversized indoor laundry room adds practicality to daily living.

Enjoy the tranquility of the screened rear porch, overlooking the pool area. Pool needs some tlc and the home is waiting for your personal touch to upgrade. This residence offers a peaceful setting.

MLS# G5075685 // $215,000.

352.636.4488

Lena@MorrisRealtors.com Lena Sells!

UNIQUE END UNIT VILLA in the sought-after Summit Chase Villas 55+ Community. Seize the opportunity to own this DISTINCTIVE property in an incredibly desirable location! Enjoy unparalleled privacy as this residence is situated at the end of a quiet street, providing an exclusive living experience. The home is immediately ready for occupancy, offering an open and spacious living room that is perfect for entertaining. With vaulted ceilings, an outdoor storage room, and dedicated parking, including a convenient carport, this residence provides both comfort and practicality.

Conveniently located near the vibrant Tavares downtown entertainment district and just a short drive from Mount Dora’s charming shops, this home offers accessibility to both coasts within an hour. The homeowners association (HOA) covers all grounds maintenance, lawn service, and exterior building maintenance, providing a hassle-free living experience. Take advantage of the community’s amenities, including a pool, clubhouse, and shuffleboard. Act quickly, as this exceptional home is sure to be in high demand! MLS# G5076312 // $195,000.

POOL HOME!! LARGE LOT!! POTENTIAL IS ENDLESS!! So many great projects have been done and/or started on this 3/2 located in the heart of Umatilla. NEW ROOF! The living room has an electric fireplace. Large kitchen with plenty of cabinets and countertops plus eat in space. New flooring in main areas. Bathrooms have some new fixtures. Seller has some materials that will convey with the property. With a little love you could enjoy hot summer days in your pool.

Fenced in yard! Handy man shed and small carport in yard for storage. MLS# G5077100 // $249,900.

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING CUSTOM POOL HOME on a sprawling 3.76-acre estate! You’ll fall in love with this remarkable residence, nestled on a picturesque piece of land with panoramic vistas. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by a gated entrance, and the entire property is fenced. Inside, enjoy the open and airy split-bedroom floor plan layout, featuring low-maintenance flooring, a soothing neutral color palette, and carefully selected upgrades. The island kitchen boasts a convenient breakfast nook, flowing into the living area, rear sliding glass doors lead to the pool area. Your kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, spacious pantry, storage space, and stone countertops. Two bedrooms share a well-appointed bathroom, an additional den/bonus room can be a fourth. The master bedroom is accompanied by an en-suite bathroom that features a garden tub, customtiled shower, dual raised sinks, two walk-in closets, and an extra linen closet. Your master suite also grants direct access to the pool lanai. The pool area is designed for your comfort and even includes a separate full bathroom.

This impressive property is also equipped with a full house generator and an oversized three-car garage.

Outside, you’ll find a meticulously maintained yard. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this your dream home!

MLS# G5074887 // $950,000

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

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

We are committed and passionate professionals who puts our clients' best interests and satisfaction above all else.

Our team’s determination to cater to our clients' specific needs coupled with our market expertise, attention to detail and superior negotiating skills allows you to receive first class service.

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No one loves Lake County Real Estate as much as we do.

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Delve into the worlds of local entrepreneurs, exploring their expertise, vital services and the impactful stories that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our community.

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Treat Yourself to a Scoop of Deliciousness alk into Scoops on 5th and you’re greeted with a feeling of nostalgia surrounding a dazzling array of ice cream and baked goods.

The charming shop in downtown Mount Dora just celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2023.

With a wide range of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to mango and mint, and dozens more, there’s a taste sensation to please everyone.

The ice cream maker uses locally sourced milk, cream, fresh fruits, and spices to create 40 flavors of premium ice cream.

With so many flavors to choose from, it’s not easy to pick. You might already have a favorite,

like the always popular Cappuccino Crunch, Salted Caramel Truffle, and Coconut Chocolate Almond.

There are also exciting seasonal flavors that change.

Having trouble deciding? Order an ice cream flight, which features samples of six different flavors. It’s the perfect solution when you can’t make up your mind.

If there’s a flavor you can’t wait to eat again, just order a pint to take home.

Scoops on 5th is more than just an ice cream parlor.

You’ll find a tempting assortment of bakery items, including delectable cookies baked right in the store.

If your idea of perfection is ice cream AND cookies together, you’re in luck! Order an ice cream sandwich made with two cookies of your choice and your favorite ice cream flavor. It’s more like a meal

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because of the size, or you can always share it with a friend.

Cupcakes, individual cakes, eclairs, cannolis, and Keto donuts are also available, fresh from a local bakery.

Of course, milkshakes, root beer floats, malts, sundaes, sorbet, and sherbet are also on the menu.

Anyone with special food requirements will appreciate the non-diary, vegan, no-sugar added and gluten-free ice cream options.

Choose a seat inside or take your sweet treat next door to Donnelly Park where the kids can play after enjoying their goodies.

There’s always something happening in historic downtown Mount Dora, so treat yourself to a stop at Scoops on 5th whenever you’re in town.

Stop in soon and find out why it’s the area’s favorite old-fashioned ice cream parlor.

130 E 5th Ave, Mount Dora 352.530.8655 / scoopson5th.com Open 12 noon-9pm everyday

Down

Home

Fare ince 2007, Mary and Scott Cutlip have been making quality comfort food in a laid-back country setting, offering choices from fried chicken, southern style catfish filets, and fried green tomatoes to liver and onions. Captain Crunch French toast is also popular fare.

“You name it, we’ve got it,” says Mary. “I believe we have to continue to try new recipes so we have tastes and flavors that you can’t get anywhere else,” she says.

As you drive along CR 448 through Tavares, Mary’s Kountry Kitchen sits on the side of the road in a quaint red brick building. While unassuming on the outside, once you enter, you know you’re in the perfect place for great hospitality and unique hand-crafted comfort food.

No matter who comes to visit, Mary greets every table to say hi and make sure her beloved guests are happy.

“I love my customers,” she says.

“They’ve become family and I like that they can come here, be comfortable,

Mary’s Kountry Kitchen Is a Place for Comfort Food, Friends and Family

and appreciate the love we put into our food.”

The crowd could be a mixture of locals and visitors. Perhaps a couple that sticks to hash benedict every day, or Lake County Sherriff ’s officers who are dedicated to the handmade Angus patties in the mouth-watering Mary’s double cheeseburger. Out of towners may need a place to stop for soup made from scratch or a “Mary’s Favorite” kickin’ chicken sandwich.

Many fans make the special trip for Mary’s famous baked goods, which she spends more than 40 hours per week to create. These include coconut cream pie, blueberry pie, chocolate cake, trifle, and banana pudding, among others.

Customers also rave about fried chicken night on Thursdays, as well as fish fry and prime rib night on Fridays.

“I’m proud of it all,” says the veteran restaurateur. ”We’ve learned and gotten better by keeping our large portions and fair prices, plus we are dedicated to our cherished community.”

Deservedly, Mary’s Kountry Kitchen has received multiple prestigious

honors, including being named “Best Diner” in Lake and Sumter Style Magazine’s “Best of the Best” and The Orlando Sentinel’s “Foodie Awards.”

Even so, Mary insists that the best honor is serving her treasured guests.

“It’s the people and the relationships that keep me going,” she says. “And I believe that having the love in the food makes it all quite special.”

“I love my customers, they’ve become family and I like that they can come here, be comfortable, and appreciate the love we put into our food.”

— M A R Y C U T L I P, O W N E R

15945 County Road 448, Tavares 352.343.6823 maryskountrykitchen.net Hours: Sunday thru Wednesday 6:30am - 2pm, Thursday and Friday 6:30am - 9pm Saturday 6:30am - 2pm

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Frame the View with Customized

Window Treatments o matter how scenic the view out the window, the right window treatment completes the picture.

There’s a reason Central Florida customers have relied on Window Reflections for the past 32 years.

Quality products and attentive, personalized service have made this locally owned business the shop to call when you need a polished, professional look to complete your windows.

Whether you need blinds, drapes, shades, shutters or valances, the pros at Window Reflections design and make all types of custom window treatments. And they do it with each customer’s wishes in mind.

“We build a relationship with our customers, whether we’re doing one window or an entire house,” says owner Roxanne Stafford, who started the business in September 1991.

As a Hunter Douglas Priority Centurion dealer, Window Reflections offers a wide variety of custom

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treatments, including sheers and shadings, honeycomb shades, shutters, horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, Roman shades, roller shades, and woven wood shades. These energy efficient products come with a lifetime warranty.

For greater convenience, PowerView® Automation can ensure that window treatments open and close at the times you prefer. This technology is compatible with most smart home systems.

Some customers know just what they want when they contact Window Reflections. Others are seeking guidance for the best solutions.

Come browse the showroom to get ideas or go ahead and schedule a free in-home consultation. A consultation in your home is the ideal way to customize your treatments and get exactly what suits your style. This ensures you end up with the light control, privacy and insulation that meet your requirements.

Roxanne’s background in home décor and design is a huge benefit.

She and her staff take pride in what they do and have an obvious passion for their work. They take time to get to know their customers and understand what they need.

Customers love the small-town feel of this long-time business that delivers professional results and makes attention to detail a priority.

Located in the heart of Wildwood, Window Reflections is convenient to The Villages and surrounding communities.

Drop by the showroom today or call to schedule your free in-home consultation.

Window Ref lections 103 N Main St., Wildwood 352.330.2055 Windowreflections.net

Ranked Top 10% in the World All Carter’s Ace Hardware store locations in Central Florida recognized for their dedication to excellence. arter’s Ace Hardware, a flourishing family owned and operated chain, has recently achieved the prestigious “Pinnacle Performance Retailing” status by the Ace Hardware Corporation for each of its 11 locations across Central Florida.

This recognition, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence, their consistent dedication to customer service and brand representation places them among the elite few hundred Ace retailers out of over 5,300 stores across approximately 70 countries.

“Our team is thrilled that all our stores earned the Pinnacle award,” says Carter’s ACE Hardware Coowner, Operator and CEO Cade Carter.

“And we are more committed than ever to providing our customers with the best possible retail experience.”

John Kittell, Ace Hardware Corporation VP, praised Carter’s ACE Hardware, recognizing their outstanding achievements, which

align with the corporation’s Higher Ground retail growth strategy, emphasizing the fulfillment of their brand promise of helpfulness.

Carter’s ACE Hardware’s dedication to ensuring a superior shopping experience for its customers is evident in the successful completion of key performance drivers focusing on quality, service and convenience.

“Everyone that works for Carter’s ACE Hardware, works with us because they want to.

They are knowledgeable and they care.”

- CADE CARTER

Carter’s ACE Hardware stores are located in Tavares, Mount Dora, South Leesburg, Apopka, Sorrento, Beverly Hills, Crystal River, Hunt Club Blvd (East Apopka), Downtown Eustis, North Eustis, and Umatilla. These stores offer a wide range of products, from cutting-edge battery-powered and electrical power equipment to nuts, bolts and fasteners. Customers can count on Carter’s ACE for major brands like Scott’s for lawn and garden, Yeti for drinkware and coolers, Stiehl for outdoor power equipment,

tools and accessories, Costa for sunglasses, Benjamin Moore for paint, Traeger, Big Green Egg, and Weber for grills and more, ensuring customers have access to top-tier options.

CELEBRATING THEIR 60TH YEAR IN 2024, Carter’s Ace Hardware

stands as a testament to the enduring success of a family-owned business.

Cade says since statistics show that only 3 percent of businesses make it into the third generation, Carter’s Ace Hardware attributes its ongoing success to the dedicated staff and the unwavering support of the local community.

“We want to give a big thank you to the community for choosing to shop local and support local businesses.”

-CADE CARTER

Tavares | N. Eustis | Eustis | Umatilla Mt. Dora | S. Leesburg | Sorrento | Apopka Beverly Hills | Crystal River | Hunt Club 352.383.2101 / cartersacehardware.com

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Cutting Edge

Pool Design and Outdoor Living Spaces hen you’ve made the decision to put in a new pool, the last thing you want to hear is that it’s going to take one to two years.

Cayman Pool Construction & Service assures you that this isn’t the case. With more than 30 years of work in The Villages, the locally owned business has built a reputation for skilled work and top-notch customer service.

“We can, under normal conditions, complete a pool in nine months after signing, allowing six to eight weeks for ARC approval, engineering, and permitting,” says Scott Bowlin, owner of Cayman Pool Construction & Service.

It doesn’t take a large deposit to build your pool. The company offers a twelve-draw contract designed to keep pace with the construction as it is completed rather than taking large sums up front.

“All of our pools are in-ground concrete with a plaster finish. We use a plaster company that has been

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in business for 35 years and warranty their plaster for five years,” says Scott.

Cayman offers custom designs tailored to each specific customer’s needs.

That can mean a lap pool, a large pool spa combo where the spa can be heated during use and recirculated into the pool afterward, or even a small “spool” – a smaller pool that doubles as a spa.

In addition to extensive experience with pool construction, the company is a full-service outdoor living contractor.

“We also build summer kitchens, which we custom design, and can do partial or full lanai enclosures to provide a climate adjustable sitting area that is also part of the pool deck,” notes Scott.

Cayman Pool Construction & Service is a multi-licensed company and has its own state-certified electrical, pool and building contractor’s licenses. They’re the only pool company in the area that carries all three licenses.

If your existing pool needs a facelift, Cayman Pools has the answer. They

can refurbish the pool when the finish needs to be replastered or retiled.

This adds many years to the pool’s life for a fraction of the cost of new construction. Changing out the pump and electrical equipment on a 20-yearold pool may make it feel brand new.

Dreaming of your new pool? Call today! There’s no waiting period for your initial consultation.

“We’ll arrange for someone to come out within days of your call,” says Scott.!

“We can, under normal conditions, complete a pool in nine months after signing, allowing six to eight weeks for ARC approval, engineering, and permitting.”

—SCOTT BOWLIN, OWNER

352.365.3728 caymanpoolconstruction.com Lic#CPC1459239

Passion for Restoration CSL Construction is a one-stop shop for home improvement and restoration

n 2010, Corey Lance started CSL Construction with his wife Stephanie and the company has become a leading expert in reconstruction, restoration, remodels, and renovations. In 2012, Corey found a niche in water, mold, smoke and fire damage restoration.

“Whether we are doing a simple repair caused by water damage, or creating an elaborate kitchen remodel, we take pride in all of our projects,” says Corey. “Customer service is our priority.” Serving all of Central Florida, CSL is a valued member of the community and appreciates the relationships they have built with clients.

For Corey, every American who owns a home deserves understanding and compassion if something unforeseen happens. “We understand that for the average family, their home is everything to them,” he says.

“Taking good care of people and protecting their biggest asset is not a task we take lightly.”

Today, Corey and his crew bring over 50-years of combined experience into every job that CSL Construction takes on. “We have been blessed to build a tremendous team,” he says.

“We have employees with multiple trade backgrounds, which sets us apart.”

Corey started CSL with the idea of breaking the stereotype given to a lot of contractors by ensuring all their customers receive a quality product they can be proud of.

He also says that he personally finds great fulfillment in helping people after a tragedy.

“The whole experience of a loss can be very scary and confusing for most property owners because people may end up paying out of pocket way more than they need to,” he says.

The CSL team are advocates for those who have lost their homes due to fire or water damage and can assist victims of disaster or accidents in the clean-up and rebuilding process.

“I absolutely love bringing my knowledge and expertise to property owners dealing with catastrophic losses,” says Corey. “There is nothing better than lending a helping hand to a fellow human being in a time of need.”

“CSL are life savers! They came in after we had a flood and put our whole house back together. The fact that you worked directly with the insurance company to see to it that we got our house back to proper condition.

You guys saved my life!

Thank you very much.”

—SCOTT S.

301 Washington St., Minneola 407.395.4749 CSLwaterdamage.com CBC #1259500 / MRSR #4270

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Your Trusted

Roofing Partner hen it comes to replacing the roof on your home, you deserve a hassle-free experience that doesn’t break the bank. That’s where Eustis Roofing comes in. As a family-owned and operated business since 1959, they understand the challenges homeowners face when it’s time for a roof replacement.

Their mission is simple: to provide the highest-quality roofing solutions at prices that won’t empty your pockets.

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Eustis Roofing Company has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1959. In 1982, Rod Reisman joined the team as a ground clean-up laborer—a humble beginning in the world of roofing. Rod’s dedication and exceptional performance quickly earned him a reputation as a roofing expert.

Over the years, Rod learned every aspect of the roofing business, mastering each position within the roofing crew. His expertise left an impression on the owner of Eustis

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Roofing, paving the way for a big opportunity for Rod. In 1987, Rod assumed ownership of the company, marking a new chapter in our company’s growth.

Jason grew up in the roofing business, returning home after a successful career working in the pit crew for NASCAR in 2011. Together, this father and son duo have led their team to nationally recognized status.

In 2021, Eustis Roofing was awarded national Roofing Company of the Year at the Roofing Insights National Conference.

“It’s like the Grammys for roofers,” Jason says. “It was an honor.”

Today, Eustis Roofing has evolved into a full-service roofing and metal fabricating enterprise. Their primary focus remains on installing top-notch Architectural-grade fiberglass shingles, as well as in installing metal roofs, flat roofs, specialty roofs, and roofs for manufactured housing.

Additionally, they offer services such as the installation of solar-powered roof fans and skylights.

In addition to roofing expertise, Eustis Roofing has gained recognition

as Central Florida’s go-to experts in identifying and repairing roof leaks, understanding the frustration of discovering ceiling leaks far from their source on the roof. That’s why they employ the region’s most experienced specialists in leak detection.

Your peace of mind and satisfaction are our top priorities. At Eustis Roofing, they are not just in the business of roofs; they are in the business of building trust. Discover why Eustis Roofing is Central Florida’s trusted roofing partner.

“We’re all proud to work together with integrity to service our community.”

—J A S O N REISMAN, COO

2191 US Hwy. 441, Fruitland Park 15311 Old US Hwy. 441, Suite A, Tavares 352.343.4240 / eustisroofing.com

Sweet Alps Ice Cream

Your Homemade Ice Cream Destination

hen you’re craving homemade ice cream, nothing else will do.

Savor a scoop— or two—of handcrafted creamy goodness at Sweet Alps Ice Cream, which opened last summer in Spruce Creek Shoppes Plaza in Summerfield across from Walmart.

Owners Chris and Cathrine Flury let their Swiss heritage inspire the creamery’s flavors and believe that using high-quality, natural ingredients makes all the difference.

“We constantly explore new flavors and trends. Our Swiss roots have taught us to blend the best of both worlds--the American craft of ice cream making with the Alpine spirit of quality and authenticity,” says Cathrine.

“We like to bring a little bit of the Alps and Black Forest with our ice cream flavors from Germany, Switzerland, France and Italy,” she says.

Signature flavors include Salted Caramel and Black Forest. Many people come for the pistachio ice cream, which contains real pistachios.

There’s a self-serve sundae topping bar with over two dozen toppings. Or choose a homemade waffle cone or bowl.

With 24 flavors on the menu and varying seasonal flavors, there’s always a tempting variety. December’s seasonal flavors included White Christmas, Eggnog and Peppermint Stick. In October, Apple Moonshine, Apple Strudel, and German Chocolate were featured.

Moonshine? You read it right. Swiss Alps creates alcohol-infused ice cream and usually has two flavors to choose from.

If your favorite ice cream flavor isn’t already in the pint freezer, just ask and they’ll pack a pint to take home.

A specialty at Sweet Alps is their coconut-based vegan non-dairy ice cream made in-house. Of several vegan flavors, strawberry is a best-seller. Vegan milkshakes are also available.

In the bakery case, you’ll find in-house-baked Chocolate Chunk and Reese’s Peanut Butter cookies, homemade brownies and “brookies,” which are a combination brownie-cookie.

Another tasty creation is the hot glazed ice cream sandwich donut.

Choose your ice cream and the scoop is placed inside a glazed bakery donut.

The concoction is then placed on a donut iron and sealed. The result is a remarkable combination of warm donut and cold ice cream.

Coffee beans from a local roastery provide steaming cups of regular coffee, Americano, espresso, and iced or hot lattes. Tea and hot chocolate are also served.

Indoor and outdoor seating is available at Sweet Alps, your homemade ice cream destination, conveniently close to The Villages and Ocala.

17860 SE 109th Ave., Summerfield 352.693.2563 / sweetalpsicecream.com Open 12 Noon – 8:30pm Monday–Saturday 1-8pm Sunday

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Bringing

Design to Life

t Minuteman Press in Leesburg, owner Susan Olsen adheres to a simple slogan: “We design, print and promote you!”

This focus, combined with quality work and attentive service, keeps bringing satisfied customers into the shop on Main Street.

Minuteman Press has been in business since the 1970s. There are no corporate stores; each location is locally owned and operated. Susan has owned the Leesburg franchise since 2018 and is proud to be the face of the business.

“We know our area and our customers,” says Susan, who makes customer service a priority.

Many customers are surprised at the range of products available--far beyond just printed items.

“We do everything from print to wide format to custom wall and window graphics, to embroidery in-house, labels, screen printing and more,” says Susan.

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Custom Printing and Promotional Products

It’s a big bonus that the shop has its own graphic designer working on site. This comes in handy when clients decide to order custom graphics of any sort.

The staff at Minuteman Press is happy to work with you to achieve your end goals—whether you need help branding a new business or want to order a unique custom wall mural for your kids’ playroom.

You can choose a template and personalize a premade design or work with their design team to bring your ideas to life.

Minuteman Press also offers a wide range of promotional products for any business. This includes office items like pens, awards, clothing and apparel with your logo, drinkware, tote bags, brochures, business cards, calendars, and many other items to promote your brand and get your name in front of customers.

“We focus on projects from smallto medium-sized business to large company jobs, and we can help meet their needs in many different areas.

We also do in-house direct mailing,” says Susan, whose daughter Shelbi works with her.

Susan is passionate about her community and believes in giving back. She’s actively involved in the Leesburg Chamber and Leesburg Rotary. Her family also owns the Beef O’Brady’s in Leesburg.

Attention new customers!

Come in and mention this story to receive 15% off your first order!

“We do everything from print to wide format to custom wall and window graphics, to embroidery in-house, labels, screen printing and more” —SUSAN OLSEN, OWNER

1417 East Main Stret, Leesburg 352.728.6333 Leesburg-fl.minutemanpress.com

A Path to Wellness Going beyond weight loss to achieve WELLNESS for life.

otal Nutrition & Therapeutics (TNT) is not just a health and wellness clinic; it’s a team of dedicated professionals led by Owner and Nurse Practitioner Lori Esarey. At the helm, Lori guides her team with precision, ensuring everyone plays a vital role in steering patients towards a healthier lifestyle.

“I am ultimately in charge of helping direct the TNT team by setting up the treatment plans we’d like our patients to follow,” Lori says. “It’s like GPS; a clear set of directions necessary to go from Point A to Point B.” Lori emphasizes the collaborative nature of the team, adding, “My passion, professionally and personally, has always been to help people achieve things in their lives they never thought was possible, but I never wanted to do it alone.”

The clinic’s philosophy centers around ‘personalized medicine’ that starts with understanding your health/wellness goals combined with comprehensive diagnostic testing,

designing your unique plan and helping you execute it.

TNT’s food-first approach to healing involves identifying health risks and addressing them proactively.

“Just because you’re not sick doesn’t mean you’re well,” Lori says. “Our clinic identifies those blind spots so we can take better care of ourselves and boost our body’s defense mechanisms.”

Lori and her team of health coaches, nutrition experts, counselors and more, stand united in the common goal of helping clients feel and live their best.

TNT offers personalized wellness services under the umbrella of Functional Medicine, focusing on identifying the root cause of dysfunction. The clinic provides a wide range of nutritional services including diagnostic testing such as inflammatory markers, nutrient levels, gut microbiome, food allergies, and food intolerances. As well as nutritional counseling and coaching for disease prevention, management; performance; and improved health and well-being; along with therapeutic

services, such as hair rejuvenation and hair removal.

Additionally, Lori says TNT’s goal is to empower individuals to take control of their health and live a life full of energy and joy. Whether it’s achieving fat loss, weight gain or simply feeling better, the team at TNT is dedicated to creating a balanced and comprehensive plan tailored to each individual’s needs to help guide them towards their health and wellness goals.

“We’re in this together for our patients.”

— L O R I E S A R E Y, MS, APRN-C, FA A R F M , ABAAHP

LOOK BETTER. FEEL BETTER. FUNCTION OPTIMALLY.

809 Co Rd 466 unit 202-C, Lady Lake 352.259.5190 / TNT4me.com

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Transforming

Healthcare Labor Strategies

e had the opportunity to sit down and speak with Anita Vincent, CEO of Vincent Management Group and learn more about the company and how the climate of the labor market in the healthcare industry has evolved.

Anita is an author, business consultant, and national speaker who owns and operates Vincent Management Group, LLC. She holds a Doctorate in Ministry (DMin) and recently became a candidate for a doctorate (PhD) in Psychology with a specialization in industrial organizational psychology. She holds a master’s in business administration and a master’s in psychology. She is also a licensed nurse and licensed counselor.

How would you describe your business to a potential customer?

We assist businesses in growing by recognizing the value of their employees, providing training and development opportunities, and creating programs that promote a workplace culture that identifies opportunities.

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How does your previous work experience relate to this position?

I began my career as a nurse, with a background in counseling. I struggled to find a way to combine my two passions. Although I was often credited as a good leader, I believe my success was due to my ability to hire the right individuals who could work alongside me and form a strong leadership team.

How do you define success?

I believe the company is successful if we can fulfill the needs of our clients while making a positive impact on the careers and lives of our staff.

At what point did you consider your business a success?

Success is not just about making profits, but also about establishing a business that has a long-term sustainability. It is essential to maintain a healthy balance between client satisfaction and employee satisfaction, which ultimately leads to a sustainable and successful business.

What changes to your business journey would you make if you could go back in time?

I don’t like to dwell on the “what ifs.”

Instead, I view the journey as an opportunity to learn and grow. It’s a chance to reflect on what we’ve learned and compare it to our current strategies that have led to success.

On your website, you mention transparency and ethics above all else. How does your business practice this?

Making transparency an integral part of a company’s policy is crucial.

It’s important to be honest and admit when you don’t know an answer. A streamlined and ethical recruitment system can also help attract highquality candidates who become satisfied employees.

Stylist: Kayla Fernandez of Kly Nandez Styles Makeup by: Layla Williams

I invite anyone interested in learning more about our business whether it’s healthcare training which is open to the public, career opportunities or businesses inquiring about our services to visit our website at VincentManagementGroup.com or call 941.227.2092 (Florida).

Water Oak Country Club Estates Resort-like living its residents call home

f you’re 55-plus and seeking a beautifully serene yet activityfilled, friendly community to call home, look no further than Water Oak Country Club Estates in Lady Lake. Our visually impressive main entrance beckons residents into a picturesque community spanning over three hundred acres of rolling hills, trees, and lakes, offering a slower-paced lifestyle at your own speed. Water Oak is the perfect haven for those who wish to enjoy all the shopping, dining, and entertainment options The Villages area provides, along with convenient access to quality medical care, all without sacrificing affordability.

Water Oak accommodates every budget, offering pre-loved and new homes with lavish features and many attractive choices. Our experienced sales team is dedicated to working with you and your budget to find the best home to suit your needs.

For those considering a new home, our sales center showcases modern, trend-setting models with various design options. Choose from a variety

of floor plans and styles or customize them to meet your preferences.

We aim to ensure the home-buying experience is enjoyable and exciting for newcomers.

Moreover, residents relish the resort-style amenities at Water Oak, perfect for an active lifestyle.

A multitude of special interest clubs and activities, including tennis, billiards, arts and crafts, quilting, fishing, shuffleboard, softball, basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, and pickleball, provide new residents with ample opportunities to engage.

The Clubhouse boasts abundant amenities, including swimming pools, heated spas, a fully equipped Fitness Center with showers and a sauna, a restaurant and bar featuring monthly live music, a well-stocked Golf Center, and a recently redesigned 18-hole USGA-rated championship golf course that’s open to the public (with discounts for residents). These features have set Water Oak apart as a ‘Stand Out’ among other premier living options.

Water Oak’s central Florida location further adds to its appeal,

with numerous tantalizing Florida attractions and destinations just a short drive away. Whether residents desire a day at one of Florida’s beaches or a visit to the world-famous theme parks in nearby Orlando, easy access to interstates and highways allows for short day trips with friends and family.

If you’re in search of the perfect, affordable retirement home offering an all-inclusive resort-like lifestyle, turn to the absolute best in manufactured home communities in Florida at Water Oak. Start living your best life and come fall in love with Water Oak on a tour today— discover why our residents love to call Water Oak home!

224 Magnolia Drive, Lady Lake 888.321.6013 wateroaksales.com

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Healthier Options and Sweet Delights Await at Yummi’s Frozen Yogurt and Café

n a town rich in lakes, parks, and outdoor activities, Yummi’s Frozen Yogurt and Café is right at home.

Clermont is known as the World Triathlon Destination, so it’s no surprise that many residents and visitors have a healthy mindset--even when it comes to sweet treats.

Since 2015, Yummi’s has offered a world of delectable flavors in both frozen yogurt and ice cream.

Frozen yogurt and ice cream are both tasty sources of calcium, but ice cream usually contains more fat and calories.

If you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth but with less fat, you’ll

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find plenty of choices in the soft-serve frozen yogurt. Pick from 12 different flavors or mix and match to suite your tastebuds.

Ice cream lovers can choose from 32 flavors of premium ice cream, like Superman, Black Cherry, Brown Butter Bourbon Truffle, Rum Raisin, Coffee, Cookies N Cream, Praline Pecan, and many, many more.

Anyone with dietary restrictions will appreciate the non-dairy yogurt available in pineapple, orange, and watermelon flavors. Non-dairy ice cream comes in mango and chocolate chunk.

Don’t forget the toppings! Over 50 toppings are available to add extra goodies to your frozen yogurt or ice cream.

You can always have a milkshake or malt, but if you’re thinking “healthy,” why not order a smoothie made with fresh fruit? Smoothies can be made dairy or non-diary.

Yummi’s menu also features Acai Bowls that provide a nutritiously delicious boost to your day. The

coconut base can be topped with granola, fruits and more. Add some traditional green matcha or explore the taste of the dazzling blue “matik.”

Top off your bowl of goodness with a generous drizzle of honey or agave syrup. It’s filling enough to make a meal.

You can also enjoy a coffee, latte, hot cocoa, chai tea or iced latte.

Yummi’s is located on the Clermont square so it’s right in the middle of the downtown action. You’ll find comfy seating inside or you can always take your order and sit outside. Savor a sunset over Lake Minneola or appreciate the view from the waterfront.

650 8th Street, Clermont 352.243.4529 / Yummisfrozenyogurt Open 12 noon-9pm everyday

AGENDA

EVEN TS TRAV EL PEOPLE

LOCAL TALENT Wildwood couple crafts stunning coastal-inpsired art and leads engaging workshops to spark creativity in others.

85

PG

THE TO-DO LIST

FEB

10

EVENT

Let’s party

feb.

2024

There’s no need to drive to The Big Easy to experience the ultimate street carnival.

Leesburg, the Lakefront City, will be alive with music, parades, floats, stilt walkers, jugglers, fire eaters and much more. The parade at 7pm features lit and beautifully decorated floats that embody the spirit of Mardi Gras.

Downtown Leesburg / 352.365.0053

feb.

FESTIVAL

CRAFTING A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

ON STAGE Enjoy quality entertainment on the many stages of Lake and Sumter counties.

The Spanish Springs Arts and Crafts Festival is certain to electrify art enthusiasts. Both artists and crafters will proudly display their wares, which will include handcrafted leather goods, paintings, glasswork and much more.

Spanish Springs Town Square The Villages / 352.750.5411

BARING IT ALL

2/1-2/11

Melon Patch Players presents “Calendar Girls,” the story of two friends who convince four women to pose nude for a calendar. The calendar is a success, but their friendship is put to the test under the strain of newfound fame.

Melon Patch Theatre 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg / 352.787.3013

FEB

10-11

FESTIVAL

GREAT SCOTT! Enjoy the festivities as Scottish heritage and tradition fill Mount Dora. The 11th Annual Scottish Highland Festival features a tartan parade, pipes and drum performances, bagpipers, dancing and much more.

Elizabeth Evans Park 100 N. Donnelly St. / 352.735.7183

FEB

17-18

OLD COUNTRY

2/23

Doug Brewin and Larry Turner will pay homage to Country music luminaries Alan Jackson and George Strait. Their tribute show will feature some of the greatest hits from the two legends, including “Chattahoochee,” “Five O’Clock Somwhere,” “All My Exes” and “I Just Want to Dance With You.” Clermont Performing Arts Center 3700 U.S Hwy. 27, Clermont / 352.394.4800

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation.

EVERY SUN

EVERY SUN

Clermont Downtown Mount Farmers Market Dora Village Market 9am-2pm 9am-2pm Downtown Clermont Mount Dora

EVERY MON

Sumter County Farmers Market 6am-2pm 524 N. Market Blvd., Webster

EVERY TUE

EVERY THU

Lady Lake Lake County Farmers Farmers Market & Flea Market 9am-2pm 8am-noon 250 Rolling Acres Rd., 2101 N. County Rd. 452, Lady Lake Eustis

EVERY FRI

Groveland Farmers Market 9am-1pm Lake David Park, Groveland

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THE TO-DO LIST

feb.JAMS

FEB

17-24

Move to the beat of your favorite performers at these great concerts or local venues!

FESTIVAL

By George, it’s a celebration

2/3 @ noon

2/17 @ 10am

CARL ADCOX Yalaha Bootlegging Company, Yalaha

POEHEMIA Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival, Mount Dora

2/10 @ noon

Eustis will celebrate its 122nd year of hosting Georgefest in honor of the country’s first president.

The event in downtown Eustis features a parade, carnival, fireworks, live music, food and vendors.

Eustis’ Georgefest is the nation’s second-longest ongoing festival celebrating George Washington.

2/17 @ noon

CARL ADCOX Yalaha Bootlegging Company, Yalaha

CARL ADCOX Yalaha Bootlegging Company, Yalaha

2/10 @ 3pm & 7pm THREE TENORS PLUS ONE The Sharon, The Villages

2/12 @ 7pm

Downtown Eustis / 352.357.3434

GIPSY KINGS The Sharon, The Villages

2/13 @ 7pm VIENNA BOYS CHOIR The Sharon, The Villages

Let us help you get the word out!

2/14 @ 7pm CARL AND KAT Plantation Resort, Lady Lake

To have an event considered for the calendar, send a short text description along with a color photo (if available) 45 days in advance of event to: calendar@akersmediagroup.com or Lake & Sumter Style Calendar, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749

2/14 @ 7pm THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Sharon, The Villages

2/18 @ 10am POEHEMIA Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival, Mount Dora

2/19 @ 7pm CARL AND KAT Bee’s RV Resort, Clermont

2/24 @ noon CARL ADCOX Yalaha Bootlegging Company, Yalaha

3/2 @ noon CARL ADCOX Yalaha Bootlegging Company, Yalaha

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation.

1ST FRI

1ST FRI

2ND FRI

2ND SAT

2ND SAT

4TH SAT

Eustis First Friday 6-9pm Downtown Eustis

Clermont First Friday Food Trucks 5:30-9pm 685 W. Montrose St., Clermont

Second Friday Farmers Market 5-9pm Lake David Park, Groveland

Plaid in the Park 5-9pm 230 W. 4th Ave., Mount Dora

Main Street Classic Car Show 5-9pm 510 W. Main St., Leesburg

Eustis Classic Car Cruise-In 4-8pm Downtown Eustis

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LOCAL TALENT

PEO PLE

Waves of creativity Seabreeze Art couple share artistic passion through art workshops.

STORY AND PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON

im and Rob Coddington, the husband-and-wife duo behind Seabreeze Art in Wildwood, are bringing a fresh wave of creativity to the area. They offer unique art classes and crafting experiences for art enthusiasts, but also for those who may not consider themselves artistically inclined.

“We have people that walk in and warn us they aren’t crafty,” Rob says.

“I just tell them to have fun and we will take care of the rest. It’s about the experience. But we’ve never had anyone leave without loving their work of art.”

Rob and Kim opened Seabreeze Art after a class Kim took in Homosassa sparked something in her that made her want to share her creative process with others. Rob recognized the potential in her artistry and proposed the idea of her teaching art workshops in The Villages.

Despite working full-time, the couple launched art workshops in February 2022. Their first class had just six participants. However, word quickly spread about the couple’s engaging and enjoyable art classes, which led to sold-out sessions.

“I started doing classes in my garage,” Kim says. “It just grew from there. We are constantly

adding new things and expanding to holiday creations.”

Rob also found himself captivated and became actively involved in conducting workshops and creating his own artwork.

The Coddingtons decided to relocate to Wildwood, where they established their home with an attached studio that allows them to expand and host private parties and add additional open classes.

“I found I really enjoy teaching the workshops,” Rob says. “I enjoy getting everyone involved and making it a fun experience. I’ll be cracking jokes and get the ball rolling for the group. The most important thing is that they are having fun.”

Seabreeze Art specializes in resin on glass, resin on canvas and charcuterie board crafting. Kim and Rob often depict seaside themes with ocean waves, seashells and sea creatures, concepts that are relaxing to many. Classes and

examples of their work can be found at Seabreezeartfl.com.

“This is our true passion project,” Kim says. “After we are able to retire, this is what we want to do and just have fun with it.”

Do you know of a talented person in our community?

Email their story to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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HI, SOCIETY!

Delilah Lecco

Carleigh Smith and Sgt. Shannon Walsh

Joshua Cortes

Officer Scott Suminski and Officer Kyle Moore

Tiffany, James, Kaden and Colton Hobgood

Sgt. Jason Donton

UNITY IN ACTION @ LEESBURG

≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

The Leesburg Police Department’s National Night Out at Ski Beach on October 3 brought law enforcement officers, service providers and the community together. The evening featured interactions with the motor patrol, SWAT team members, rescue vehicles and the crowd-favorite K-9 unit. Attendees enjoyed a petting zoo, raffles, inflatable slide, free food and kids games. Sponsors included Citizen’s First Bank, Munn’s and Pat’s Sales.

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Trevor Kavanagh, Sgt. John Sommersdorf, Natalie Cosson

Scan this code to view all photos on lakeandsumterstyle.com.

Lynnette Potts, Christie Truluck, Alan Reisman, Patrice Hirr and Pastor Andrea Roberts

E 'S WHER ?!

M Y P IC

Making the Difference in our Community

Family owned and operated

ONE-ON-ONE

PERSONALIZED HOME CARE

As experts in home care, Visiting Nurse Association of Florida strives to make you and your loved one feel comfortable and safe. We take pride in pairing our patients with the best clinicians to meet their unique needs and personalities.

SKILLED SERVICES Skilled nursing Physical, occupational and speech therapies Wound care IV therapy Medication management

We are both a Medicare certified and private duty home health agency.

1123-01

PRIVATE DUTY SERVICES Meal planning/preparation Light cleaning Errands and laundry Bathing, dressing and grooming Hourly nursing visits Post-surgical care Home health aides Alzheimer’s care

... and more!

vnaflorida.org

CALL TODAY!

352.693.4871 836 Lake Sumter Landing The Villages, FL 32162 LIC# 299991370

HI, SOCIETY!

Jim Ware

Chrissy Stanley

Kat Phillis

Veronica Myers and Rachel Story

Kelly Morrison, Diane Ficchi and Desa Hanna

Scan this code to view all photos on lakeandsumterstyle.com.

Dee Marchman

Tony Stanley and Mat Decker

Marcy Truedell, Tina Crispi, Jen Tooker, Austin Massey and Jacqueline Speed E 'S WHER ?!

M Y P IC

SIP, SAVOR AND SPOOKS @ LEESBURG

Carmeline Alaus

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≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

Spirits on the Lake was held at Pat Thomas Stadium on October 13. The 21-and-up event was packed with spooky interactive entertainment and over 40 food and spirit tastings, including whiskey, tequila, vodka, rum, wine and craft beer. Attendees were delighted by master storytelling, music and unique fall themed retailers. It was a memorable night out.

Sponsors included Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room, Wops Hops, Three Odd Guys Brewing, Armed Forces Brewing Co., Lugo’s Distillery and Loggerhead Distillery.

building unique pools

“They built the pool to perfection, and the finished design was better than we ever imagined. The superintendent was willing to answer all our questions before, during, and after the project. Although we have been swimming in the pool for three months, we can still call him with any questions. Wiseman Pools went above and beyond, and the pool is functional and works like we want it to.”

—SCOTT STEPHENS

Wiseman Pools is a family-owned-and-operated, licensed residential and commercial swimming pool builder with an extensive portfolio of projects. From the small—fountains and in-ground spas. To the large—million dollar installations with multiple pools and spas. Our customers, large and small, demand a quality swimming pool for a fair price. And we deliver.

352.431.3766 | WisemanPools.com | 1517 W Main St., Leesburg

HI, SOCIETY!

Ricky Vargas, E-MaN Vazquez, Natalie Segalini, Ally Day, Makaylah Silva and Kiah Champion

Nellie Poio Evans, Donna Poio, Keela Wright, Jen Wright, Mia Trevino, Jennifer Hawkins and Fiona Wright

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≈ PHOTOS: ROXANNE BROWN

Pig on the Pond Community Festival took place at Waterfront Park in Clermont, October 13-15. Many of the 20,000 participants celebrating the silver anniversary of the event contributed to a popular time capsule. Activities for the 25th annual event included a carnival, live entertainment, pig races, a kids zone and fireworks. The junior grillmasters competition sponsored by Publix allowed kids to show off their BBQ skills. Festival proceeds benefited Project Scholars scholarship program. Pig on the Pond is the largest event held in the city annually.

090 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

SPORTS HUB

S T UDEN TS C OACH ES T EAM S

ATHLETE PROFILE

94

PG

Mount Dora Junior Blakely Kite’s secret to success is putting heart into everything she does both on the field and beyond.

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MALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

PEO PLE

SALOMON GEORGES Leesburg High School quarterback demonstrates gridiron grit, emerging as a football sensation.

STORY: KYLE COPPOLA

ith his passion for the game, dedication and deep respect for the coaches who have guided him, Leesburg High School junior quarterback Salomon Georges, Jr. is making waves on the football field.

Salomon was born in Apopka, but his football journey began at the age of 6 when he joined the local Pop Warner league. His fascination with playing quarterback was ignited by watching his father, Salomon Georges, Sr. and uncles play the same position.

Today, Salomon’s saga continues at Leesburg High, where he transferred in 2023 to play for the Yellow Jackets and alongside Evan James, his best friend and teammate since their Pop Warner days.

Since coming on board, Salomon’s game has been solid. He threw for 2,209 yards during his junior year, recorded 33 touchdowns, averaged 16.7 yards per throw and boasted a 146.9 QB rating. Notably, he demonstrated exceptional care for the football, with just two interceptions throughout the year.

One standout moment in Salomon’s career occurred

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL during a game against Vanguard High School.

Despite overcoming a significant halftime deficit, the Yellow Jackets fell short. Even so, this experience provided invaluable lessons in leadership and resilience, shaping Salomon’s high school career.

He also learned to escape the pocket effectively.

Some of the best moments, however, come when he connects with Evan for touchdowns. Salomon credits Evan for his growth as a player and as a person, after all.

As a quarterback, Salomon admires the arm strength and mobility of NFL stars like Jalen Hurts, Russell Wilson, Cam Newton, Lamar Jackson and Kyler Murray.

Salomon also looks up to them for their impact in changing the game for Black quarterbacks.

Offering advice to young aspiring athletes, Salomon emphasizes the importance of trusting the process, listening to coaches and focusing on discipline and learning.

“Listening is as important as athletic ability and being open to learning is key,” Salomon says.

Off the field, Salomon enjoys playing basketball, dining out, visiting arcades and spending quality time with his family, including watching movies together.

Know a talented student athlete? Fill us in!

Email your recommendations to kyle@akersmediagroup.com.

092 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

KYLE COPPOLA

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F E B ' 2 4 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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FEMALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

PEO PLE

BLAKELY KITE Mount Dora High School junior impresses as she strives for greatness in the sports world and beyond.

STORY: KYLE COPPOLA

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

ount Dora High School junior Blakely Kite is not your average student-athlete.

Blakely is a determined hard worker, juggling a demanding academic schedule, active participation in the school’s volleyball and softball program and a full-time job.

Despite her hectic schedule and just before the 2023 softball season, Blakely took a job at Chick-fil-A in Mount Dora to not only bring in extra income but to foster independence.

“I strive to become more independent. I wanted to learn more life skills as well as meeting new people. I also enjoy making money and eating their food,” says Blakely, who is also dual-enrolled at LakeSumter State College and on track to graduate high school with her associate degree.

Blakely remains goal-oriented, with aspirations of becoming a doctor.

“I am always competing against myself to do better, whether it be on the field or in the classroom. I have a long-term goal of being a doctor and it requires many years of hard work.

I want to make my family proud of all the work I have done,” she explains.

Blakely is ranked sixth out of 300 students in her class and boasts an impressive 4.9 cumulative GPA. Her dedication is further highlighted by her achievements on the softball field. Blakely emerged as one of Mount Dora High’s best softball players, leading the team with a remarkable .464 batting average. She contributed significantly with 26 hits and showcased her speed, scoring more than 33 runs during the 2023 season.

Despite facing challenges in the past, including a diagnosis of Sever’s disease that caused her extreme pain in her heel, Blakely never relented and has focused on being the best she can be.

Blakely acknowledges the support of her coaches and credits the turnaround of the Mount Dora softball program to Head Coach Mike Ganus and assistants Adrianna Newkirk and Matthew McDaniel.

As Blakely continues her academic and athletic journey, her determination and achievements promise a bright future.

Know a talented student/athlete? Fill us in!

Email your recommendations to kyle@akersmediagroup.com.

094 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

KYLE COPPOLA

Defying ODDS As captain of Lake Sumter State College’s beach volleyball team, Berklee Andrews serves as an inspiration to others.

STORY: KYLE COPPOLA

096 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL & PROVIDED

Photos of Berklee in action provided by Lake Sumter State College

SPORTS UPDATE

oth on and off the beach volleyball court, Berklee Andrews is defying the odds and inspiring her community.

The Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) student athlete was born with Symbrachydactyly, a congenital condition affecting the development of hands and/or feet. In Berklee’s case, the condition left her without a part of her left arm, buy Berklee has never let the absence of a wrist and hand hinder her pursuit of excellence in both academics and sports.

Berklee’s journey began in Seguin, Texas, where she was born to Jim and Dana Andrews in a sports-oriented family with older siblings Brock and Kyndall.

Brock played baseball and Kyndall played volleyball. And, of course, Berklee wanted to be just like them. With her siblings serving as role models, Berklee came to embrace life with a condition that made her unique.

“This has been my normal since the day I was born,” Berklee says. “I learned to crawl, eat and function the way I know normal to be.”

Undeterred by her condition, Berklee followed in the footsteps of her brother and sister, participating in sports and developing a resilience that shaped her future.

Berklee’s warm, vibrant personality and beaming smile draw people into conversation, and her never-quit attitude inspires others to pursue their dreams.

“Never limit yourself in life,” Berklee says. “If you have a passion, go for it. Once you go after that passion, embrace it.”

Berklee showcased her skill as a standout high school athlete and earned a four-year letter in both volleyball and softball. Unfazed by her physical condition, she excelled in sports and earned acceptance to Texas Tech University to study business.

And yet, the call of the sand court beckoned.

After graduating high school in 2022, she missed playing volleyball, so she decided to play with a paralympic team during the summer before her freshman year of college.

The coach of the paralympic team, Neal Stanley, who also happened to be the head beach volleyball coach at LSSC, was so impressed by Berklee that he invited her to play for the Lakehawks. Berklee transferred in 2023, midway through her freshman year.

“NEVER LIMIT

YOURSELF IN LIFE. IF YOU HAVE A PASSION, GO FOR IT. ONCE YOU GO AFTER THAT PASSION, EMBRACE IT.” —BERKLEE

SPORTS UPDATE

For Berklee, it was love at first sight. And her impact on the team was immediate and profound. Her skill and infectious personality drew attention and admiration from teammates, competitors and community members alike.

Despite facing challenges that would daunt many, Berklee became a source of inspiration by embodying the belief that passion and determination can overcome any obstacle.

In her second and final year at LSSC, Berklee reached new heights when she was named captain of the women’s beach volleyball team for the upcoming 2024 season.

Her leadership, coupled with her prowess on the sand, solidified her role as a beacon of inspiration for her teammates and the public.

During the summer, photos of the Lakehawks’ beach team sparked curiosity and admiration from the local community. The question echoed through the region: “Who’s the girl playing beach volleyball with one arm?”

Berklee’s story of resilience and triumph demanded to be shared.

Berklee, majoring in business, has grand plans beyond college. She aspires to join USA Volleyball’s Beach ParaVolley Team and compete in the 2032 Paralympic Games.

While the sport has not been included in the 2024 or 2028 Paralympic Games, Berklee remains optimistic about its future inclusion, and her determination to represent the United States on the global stage is unwavering. Her ambition and natural leadership qualities position her as a potential star in the world of paralympic sports.

Until then, Berklee will be training at the Hickory Point Beach Sand Volleyball Complex, the official national training site for USA Volleyball, as she adds to a story that transcends sports and serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion and the human spirit.

Berklee Andrews, with her radiant personality and indomitable spirit, is not just an athlete but a true inspiration who reminds us all to reach for our dreams regardless of any challenges we may face.

“THIS HAS BEEN MY

NORMAL SINCE THE DAY I WAS BORN. I LEARNED TO CRAWL, EAT AND FUNCTION THE WAY I KNOW NORMAL TO BE.” —BERKLEE

098 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

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s a patient, you have a choice.

When deciding where to have a procedure done, you want the confidence of using the finest health care providers. You also want to feel comfortable and safe.

These important factors are why so many patients choose the outpatientbased catheterization and angiography lab (OBL) at Orlando Health Medical Group (OHMG) FHV Health, with locations in Leesburg and Wildwood.

Facilities are designed like a private room setting at a hospital with a large staging area and patient lounges. Once the patient checks in, they and any family member accompanying them stay in their individual room until the patient goes into the lab for their procedure.

This affords both comfort and privacy in a warm, safe, cozy environment.

Multiple large clinical studies have demonstrated that procedures performed at an OBL can be done with great outcomes and safety that mirrors that of excellent hospitals.

“This is an in-and-out facility, which offers the patient extreme convenience and comfort and reduces risk of infection due to the short stay. The majority of patients are only here for three to four

102 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

hours,” says medical director David C. Lew, MD, FACC, FSCAI. A highly respected interventional cardiologist, Dr. Lew founded OHMG FHV Health in 1991.

Dr. Lew notes that the OBLs are popular choices for diagnostic heart catheterizations and total body angiograms.

Cardiac patients can learn immediately what treatment is required, or if surgery or cardiac stents are necessary.

Vascular patients with severe claudication or advanced critical limb ischemia can be treated and receive interventions on-site.

Without a prolonged stay in a hospital, there is far less risk of hospital-acquired infection.

“The rate of infection is directly proportional to the length of stay,” says Dr. Lew, “so the shorter the better.”

Dr. Lew speaks as both a cardiologist who’s performed over 30,000 cardiac and vascular procedures, and from firsthand experience, having been a patient at the Leesburg OBL last December.

“As the medical director of our OBL system, I have the utmost confidence in our facilities, the abilities of our great cardiologists, staff and safety, that I underwent a diagnostic heart procedure here,” he says. “Thank God,

I was blessed with great news and went home two hours later.”

Find out for yourself. If you’re not having a major procedure or operation, the warm and welcoming environment of the OBL at OHMG FHV Health could be the most convenient and safe option.

DAVID C. LEW, MD, FACC, FSCAI

(352) 323-9505 | orlandohealth.com/FHV Orlando Health Medical Group FHV Health - 5437 E. SR 44, Wildwood

MENU

F OOD DRIN KS REVI EWS

FORK ON THE ROAD Savor expertly prepared oceanic delights at Leesburg’s Seafood Shack, a haven for seafood lovers.

108

PG

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IN THE KITCHEN

RECIPE

ESPRESSO YOURSELF OMG Coffee Excellence brews more than just coffee.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

104 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

hat started as a small booth at a flea market has steadily climbed its way toward achieving the status of coffee empire. OMG Coffee Excellence, owned by Philip Brown and Karen Smith, recently moved to its newest location at Stackd Brownies in Mount Dora.

But OMG Coffee, which stands for Original Made Goodness, is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee.

“I was a truck driver and had to leave for health reasons,” Philip says.

“While on the road, you find all kinds of coffees at truck stops and other cafés, so I set out to make the best cup of coffee.”

Philip’s mission is to create the finest coffee blends imaginable. He reached out to his friend and master coffee roaster, Eli Michael Ornberg, and together, they brought the OMG Coffee brand to life.

In 2016, Philip began selling his gourmet coffee at Renninger’s Flea Market in Mount Dora. But his journey didn’t stop there. Philip took his brews mobile with a food truck, setting up at events and for a time, outside the food court at Lake Square Mall. There, he offered his signature coffee shakes infused with OMG Coffee and a variety of his signature “freakins” — mini donuts, topped with sweets like cinnamon sugar, S’mores, cookies and cream, glazed chocolate or Samoas.

Karen Smith joined the scene with her homemade baked goods during the pandemic, and the response from the community prompted OMG Coffee to establish its first brick-and-mortar location in Tavares in 2021. The combination of killer coffee and yummy treats proved to be a recipe for success.

“We had booths next to each other at Renninger’s and figured, ‘what goes better with coffee than baked goods?’”

Karen recalls.

Together, they continued the OMG Coffee venture.

OMG Coffee roasts its own blends for its café in addition to providing wholesale coffee to numerous establishments throughout the region. Some of the popular flavors include Carolina Pecan, Jamaican Me Crazy (Kahlua, caramel and vanilla), T-Rex Xtreme (extra kick), German Chocolate (chocolate and coconut) and the intense OMG X espresso. Bags of these signature blends are available in-store and online.

John Bryant, owner of Stackd Brownies in Mount Dora, took over a bakery at Renninger’s Flea Market last year. It just so happened that OMG Coffee is the coffee shop portion of the bakery. A good friendship developed between Philip and John. When Philip was looking to add another café location, it made sense to open up shop inside Stackd Brownies’ new store in Mount Dora’s Key Food Plaza, as well.

“This is a great place and now people can get his awesome brownies and a cup of coffee,” Philip says. “We are going to focus on our wholesale

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IN THE KITCHEN

distribution, getting the OMG brand to more local restaurants.”

At the café, customers can enjoy lattes, espressos, cappuccinos and Americanos or simply savor a classic cup of Joe. Bottled 64-oz. cold brews are also available to those seeking a pick-me-up.

But specialty shakes truly steal the show. These shakes made with coffee or milk come in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, as well as adventurous concoctions like Oreo mint, S'mores, Nutty Buddy and

Butterbeer. The caramel macchiato is by far the fan favorite, but mocha latte shakes are a close second.

OMG Coffee Excellence also offers breakfast and lunch items including breakfast paninis on NY bagels, bowls, sandwiches and gourmet hot dogs that are available all day.

The Cuban sandwich (ham, pulled pork, pickles, provolone cheese and mustard) is their top seller. The Sammie (turkey or ham) is also extremely popular. They also offer a classic pulled pork sandwich,

S TAC K D B R OW N I E (Yields 16 brownies)

FROSTING INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS: 12

/

cup butter

1

cup sugar

2

eggs

3

tbsp butter

3

tbsp unsweet coco powder

1

tbsp honey

1

tbsp honey

1

cup confectioner’s sugar

1

tsp vanilla

DIRECTIONS:

13

/

cup unsweetened cocoa powder

12

/

cup flour

14

/

tsp salt

/

tsp baking powder

For the brownies, melt the butter over low heat. Add all the wet ingredients into a mixing bowl and mix. Add in dry ingredients and mix until combined. Pour mixture into the greased baking pan. Heat oven to 350 and bake brownies for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes

14

8-inch baking pan

C U B A N S A N DW I C H INGREDIENTS:

5.5

pulled pork see recipe >>

2

tbsp yellow mustard

14

/

cup dill pickles

2

oz provolone cheese

2

oz ham

1

ciabatta roll

DIRECTIONS:

Grill ham on griddle or stove. Top the ham with pickles and provolone cheese and warm on grill until cheese is melted.

Scoop ham, pickles and cheese off the grill and place on bottom half of cibatta bun. Top with pulled pork. Add top half of bun and press in panini grill until bun is crispy.

106 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

Carolina pulled pork with slaw, grilled cheese and The Ultimate with ham, turkey, bacon, provolone and honey mustard.

Craving something sweet? Try a gourmet brownie from Stackd Brownies. They offer everything from the classics to the creative with choices like triple peanut butter, chocolate cheesecake, coconut, peanut butter cup, S’mores, raspberry filled, cookie dough, Oreo and more.

out dry and clean. Remove from oven and let brownies cool.

To make the frosting, stir all ingredients together in a mixing bowl until combined.

Frost brownies when they are semi-warm then cut into squares. Top with your favorite toppings.

PULLED PORK INGREDIENTS:

1

tsp vegetable oil

1

pork shoulder roast

1

cup BBQ sauce

12

/

cup apple cider vinegar

12

/

cup chicken broth

14

/

cup light brown sugar

1

tbsp yellow mustard

1

tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1

tbsp chili powder

1

extra-large onion, chopped

2

large cloves garlic, crushed

1 1/2

tsp dried thyme

DIRECTIONS:

Pour vegetable oil into a slow cooker.

Place pork roast. Pour in barbecue sauce, vinegar and chicken broth.

Stir in brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, onion, garlic and thyme. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours until pork shreds easily with a fork.

C A R A M E L M AC C H I AT O COFFEE SHAKE INGREDIENTS:

10

oz vanilla ice cream

8

oz coffee or espresso, chilled

2

tbsp caramel syrup

DIRECTIONS:

Blend all ingredients in blender. Pour into a 20 oz. cup, drizzle with caramel sauce.

Top with whipped cream and more caramel sauce.

whipped cream for topping

IF YOU GO

OMG COFFEE EXCELLENCE AT STACKD BROWNIES MOUNT DORA (KEY FOOD PLAZA) 18950 US Hwy. 441, Mount Dora 352.508.9614 Open 8am-5pm daily facebook.com/omgforme Owners Karen Smith and Philip Brown

Hey, readers! Do you have favorite recipes or know a chef we should profile?

Comment on this article or send story ideas to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

CINDY PETERSON

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FORK ON THE ROAD

REVIEW

Shell yes!

“Chowda” down on real New England seafood in Leesburg.

STORY: AMANDA VALDERRAMA ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

felt like doing a dance in my seat during my first visit to New England Seafood Shack, a quaint, cozy familyowned Leesburg restaurant serving authentic coastal cuisine featuring fresh, bright flavors in every dish.

Owners Dawn and Joe Machado met in a restaurant where she was a waitress and he worked as a cook over 30 years ago.

After moving to Central Florida from Rhode Island, Dawn noticed that there weren’t many local options for relocated northerners to dine on New England-style seafood.

The couple decided to use their passion for the service industry to build a

108 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

business in a vacant space available near their home.

“When this spot became available, it was the right time, and it was the perfect size,” Dawn says. “Everything just fell into place and it made sense.”

The couple have devoted themselves to keeping up with the needs of their restaurant since its March 2023 grand opening. They enjoy a great dynamic between them — Dawn focuses on front-of-house management and bookkeeping, while Joe runs the kitchen creating recipes for their menu. They also love giving their staff the opportunity to be creative in helping come up with daily specials.

“We’re really blessed to have such a great kitchen staff and they all come

from a culinary background,” Dawn says. “So we like to have their input.”

It’s a family affair, too. Their daughter, Tayla, also lends a helping hand by marketing and addressing any technical needs for the restaurant.

I was impressed by the casual and relaxed dining atmosphere the minute I entered the restaurant in the Winn Dixie Plaza on US Highway 27 in South Leesburg.

The Machados succeeded in creating a cozy and quaint beachy vibe with aqua blue walls, checkered tablecloths and basket-woven and fish-shaped light fixtures. I felt transported to a local gem that one might find near the shores of Cape Cod.

Dawn spent summers going to the beach and stopping at one of the casual, nondescript beach shacks that served a variety of always fresh and delicious clam cakes, chowder, lobsters and steamers. These fond memories inspired the Machados to create a family-friendly space for fresh seafood enthusiasts.

A seafood lover myself, I checked out the menu prior and knew what I was ordering the second I stepped up to the counter. I decided to start my meal with the loaded “JoJo” potatoes; JoJo being the childhood nickname of the Machados’ late son.

These tasty, wedged spuds were topped with plump, seasoned shrimp, bacon, cheese, sour cream and chives, then drizzled with a tangy sauce.

The appetizer was a pretty large portion, and I certainly took home the leftovers.

I was thrilled to see that they offered lobster rolls. Though it was on my must-try list, I’ve never had one and boy was I pleased by my

pieces of lobster claw meat garnished “THE NEW with parsley and served with a side of fries. I savored each flavorful ENGLAND CLAM french bite that was perfectly tossed in butter. The fries were also salted CHOWDER to perfection, and I think we can all that a well salted batch of fries HAD SO MUCH agree should not go unnoticed.

The wait staff was very attentive FLAVOR. MY throughout my entire experience. The SHRIMP SCAMPI waitress, Madison Rowland, delivered meal and even told me what her WAS EXCELLENT my favorite dish is.

“It’s without a doubt our lobster AND HAD A mac and cheese. I’m a mac and cheese so I can say we have the best NICE GARLIC snob lobster mac and cheese here!” says a Leesburg resident.

BUTTER SAUCE.” Madison, After devouring the entire roll, — D AV E L I N E S

first experience. You can choose from Maine or Connecticut style.

Maine-style is served chilled, dressed in mayo and celery. I went with Connecticut-style, served with warm lobster, and coated in melted butter.

Shortly after ordering, the server arrived at my table with a basket full of pure deliciousness — a lightly toasted bun packed with sweet, large

I ended up chatting with a couple in the booth behind me who were raving about how much they loved their meal.

“The New England clam chowder had so much flavor,” says Dave Lines, a resident of The Villages. “My shrimp scampi was excellent and had a nice garlic butter sauce.”

Dave’s wife Angele mentioned that they were already talking about what they’ll have for their next visit.

IF YOU GO

SEAFOOD SHACK 27405 US Hwy 27, Suite 121, Leesburg 352.460.4572 Facebook: @SeafoodShackLeesburg www.seafoodshackleesburg.com Hours: Open daily 11am-8pm (hours subject to change) Dine-in, takeout. Lobster boils offered Friday-Sunday. Seafood boils offered Saturday-Sunday.

Let’s do lunch or dinner!

Tell us about a great restaurant by emailing editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

AMANDA VALDERRAMA

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BEHIND THE BAR

PEO PLE

RISING STAR

The future looks bright for up-and-coming bartender Lupe Torres.

STORY: GINA HORAN

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

eing a bartender is a challenge for anyone at any age, and the multitasking never ends. You have to memorize dozens of recipes, keep a clean workspace, balance a bank and engage in conversations with all kinds of people.

For 21-year-old Lupe Torres at Fiesta Grande Cantina at Brownwood, picking up these skills came naturally for the youngster, largely because he had a solid foundation.

“It was a great beginning because my family owns the restaurant so I could feel supported and learn all aspects of the business,” he says.

Lupe started as a busser, then was promoted to food runner and server but had his sights set on bartending because he likes being social.

“I like to joke around, talk about sports and chat with the guests,” he says.

The folks who sit at his bar span all age groups and demographics but are most often two generations older.

This multi-generational difference, he says, is something that he embraces and admires.

“I respect the great advice I get,” Lupe says. “People tell me to work hard, pay my dues and not take anything for granted.”

As I was chatting with Lupe on the porch outside Fiesta Grande, seniors Bonnie Walls and Kathi Purdi burst out of their seats, through the front door and

made sure I got the full picture of his character.

“We love this guy,” they said in unison.

They said Lupe goes above and beyond with a personable sense of maturity, sincerity and politeness, especially with their generation.

Lupe was born in Colorado and is of Mexican descent. Like many youngsters who work in local restaurants, he is bilingual, which comes in handy for both front- and back-of-the-house communications.

“There are a few guests who are from Puerto Rico who like to speak Spanish,” he says. “It’s fun to go back and forth with them in both languages.”

If you want to have a great margarita or to talk about sports, Lupe works behind the bar on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays after 3pm.

Have a favorite mixologist?

Email me at gina@akersmediagroup.com and tell us which bartender stirs your drinks.

110 / L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • F E B ' 2 4

GINA HORAN

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DINING GUIDE

DINE

eats

From classic diners and lakeside restaurants to fine dining and everything in-between, Lake and Sumter counties’ culinary scene is booming. Your favorite meal is sure to be served with a side of hospitality.

You can find a copy of Lake & Sumter Style at all listed dining locations!

BUSHNELL

Sarah’s Greek Cuisine & More

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd., Ste. 305 352.404.8031

Darrell’s Diner

Yummis Frozen Yogurt and Cafe

2586 W. CR 48 352.568.7000 2237 W. CR 48 352.444.2318

650 8th St. 352.243.4529

CLERMONT

Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988

Ay Jalisco 580 Hwy. 50 352.243.1360

Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W. Montrose St. 352.404.9431

Crooked Spoon Gastropub

200 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.404.7808

Gator’s Dockside

1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.242.1825

Goomba’s Pizzeria

2395 S. Hwy. 27 352.989.4403

Green Mountain Pizza 303 Hwy. 50 352.432.3380

Guru Restaurant

2400 S. Hwy. 27 Ste. 101 352.241.9884

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill

EUSTIS

Gators Dockside 15241 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.357.1255

Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W. CR 44 352.589.9100

Taki’s Pizza House

1600 S. Bay St. 352.357.0022

The Troff

936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939

Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. 352.589.9001

JB Boondocks Bar & Grill

704 S. Lakeshore Blvd.

352.324.3600

Mission Inn’s La Hacienda Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.3910

Mission Inn’s Nicker’s Clubhouse Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.2718

GROVELAND

Red Wing Restaurant

Robata Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

Barrels & Boards

12500 S. SR 33 352.429.2997

7965 SR 50 A500 352.557.5007

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Brooklyn’s Pizzeria 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.728.2020

Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442

Donut King

Bamboo Bistro 700 Hwy. 441 352.750.9998

El Ranchito

1 Lagrande Blvd.

352.750.3335

Gators Dockside 1004 Main St. 352.430.1377

Harbor Hills Country Club Latin Flavors Bar & Grill

200 Rose Ave. 352.805.4340

LEESBURG

El Ranchito Mexican Cuban Restaurant

Stavro’s

The Rose Plantation

13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630

LADY LAKE

6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000

3223 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.315.0028

Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant

708 S. 14th St. 352.805.4888

F RU I T LA N D PA R K

230 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.394.0036

1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS

13769 U.S. 441 352.561.4002

Marco’s Pizza

13721 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.775.1500

Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 304 S. U.S. Hwy. 27/441 352.753.2722

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 860 S. Hwy. 27/441 352.751.5640

911 W. North Blvd.

352.460.0123

Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia St. 352.474.2739

Ichiban Buffet 10301 Hwy. 441 352.728.6669

La Palma Mexican Grill 1690 Citrus Blvd.

352.323.1444

Luna Azul

1341 S. 14th St. 352.805.4174

Mammoth Oak Brewing Company

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 27745 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.435.4633

Prime 3 on Main 610 W Main St 352.314.0015

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.319.8093

Sipping Grounds Leesburg 201 W. Main St. 352.435.7749

Ski Beach 21 Dozier Cir. 352.973.0793

The Brick & Barrel Public House 209 W. Main St. 352.431.3069

The Coffee Snob 1101 W. North Blvd.

352.460.4570

The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd.

352.805.4250

The Sipping Garden and Bistro 605 W. Magnolia St. 352.460.0716

Wolfy’s

918 N. 14th St. 352.787.6777 M OUNT ORA

1107 W. North Blvd.

352.326.0100

MOUNT DORA

McCracken’s Irish Pub

Barnwood Country Kitchen & Smokehouse

719 W. Main St, 352.460.0659

Mystic Ice Cream 314 W. Main St. 352.812.1366

Naples Italian Restaurant 1107 W. North Blvd.

352.323.1616

3725 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 352.630.4903

Fiesta Grande 421 N. Baker St. 352.385.3540

Magical Meat Boutique 322 N. Alexander St. 352.729.6911

GOO GRU D B T H IS M

O E D IT N T H 'S O R 'S P IC K

Napolinos Italian Restaurant Tucked away in Wildwood, Napolinos Italian Restaurant has been a local favorite for almost a decade. This hidden gem serves authentic Italian dishes, including savory veal Marsala, buttery shrimp Francese and chicken piccata. Daily specials range from Grouper Ischia served over linguini to short ribs with mushroom sauce and mashed potatoes. The hand-tossed pizzas are legendary and choices include the Meatzza, Napolino’s House Pie, Veggie and Crudaiola. Bread is made by hand each morning and served with fresh, herbaceous garlic olive oil. Wine, beer and a full bar are available all day — as is their traditional pasta fagioli. Top off your meal with homemade key lime pie or tiramisu. Large parties are welcomed with reservations.

9811 U.S. Highway 301, Wildwood / 352.399.6825

Vincent’s Italian Restaurant

5914 Orange Blossom Trl. 352.735.4578 OXFORD

Pho Saigon

Fish Camp Lake Eustis 901 Lake Shore Blvd.

352.742.4400

Hurricane Dockside Grill

3351 W. Burleigh Blvd.

352.508.5137

11717 U.S. 301 352.492.9423 TAVARES

Puddle Jumpers

TAVARES

Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill

Bella Nona Pizzeria

280 Silverado St. 352.508.9370

BTW (Burgers, Tacos & Waffles) 115 E. Main St. 352.508.9287

111 W. Ruby St. 352.508.5862

118 W. Ruby St. 352.508.5783

T HE V I LLAGE S

Cody’s Roadhouse Brownwood 3731 Meggison Rd. 352.430.2926

Cody’s Roadhouse Lake Sumter Landing

Peterbrooke Chocolatier

Too Jays Lake Sumter Landing

Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream

RJ Gator’s Florida Sea Grill & Bar

VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

Legacy Restaurant

Roberto’s Ristorante Pizzeria

1041 Lake Shore Dr. 352.259.8500

1001 Lake Shore Dr. 352.751.0261 17135 Buena Vista Blvd.

352.753.1475

Marco’s Pizza

5806 Seven Mile Dr., Ste. 101 352.571.2400

NYPD Pizzeria

4046 Wedgewood Ln. 352.750.1994

Peachwave

1087 Canal St. 352.391.5877

1015 Lake Shore Dr., #1693 352.751.6935 2468 Burnsed Blvd.

352.626.1059

Sakura

265 Colony Blvd.

352.205.7393

1129 Canal St. 352.430.0410

1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887 UMATILLA

The Mason Jar

37534 SR 19 352.589.2535

Too Jays Brownwood 2835 Brownwood Blvd.

352.350.2122

249 Colony Blvd.

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DINING GUIDE

Brooklyn’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant 27405 U.S. HWY 27, LEESBURG | 352.728.2020 & 352.365.9004 MYBROOKLYNPIZZERIA.COM When hit with a craving for authentic New York style pizza, there’s no need to catch the next flight to the Big Apple. Simply visit Brooklyn’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant in Leesburg and Owners James and Shawna Pancari will make you feel right at home with New York inspired vibes, décor, and flavors. Not only have they perfected the New York style thin crust people swear by, but they take pride in ensuring everything they serve is made fresh and from-scratch daily; including their pizza dough and sauces, strombolis, calzones, subs, salads, wings, specialty Italian and pasta dinners.

Additionally, the restaurant is family-run and Veteran-owned, with James having served in the Coast Guard for 31 years. In honor of that, the dining room features a military wall, plus a 10 percent discount for veterans, active members of the military, police, fire, and first responders. Brooklyn’s Pizzeria also offers gluten-free pizza and pasta options, and accepts door-dash, online-ordering, catering, and curbside pickup.

El Ranchito Mexican Cuban Restaurant 911 W. NORTH BLVD., LEESBURG | 352.460.0123 ELRANCHITOMEXICANCUBAN.COM Since opening in 1997, El Ranchito has been the go-to place for Lake Countians who desire delicious Mexican food. Although the restaurant was closed for nearly two years due to the coronavirus, El Ranchito’s Leesburg location officially reopened in December 2021. The restaurant is now named El Ranchito Mexican Cuban and serves genuine Mexican cuisine and a variety of Cuban entrees with entertainment on Tuesdays and Saturdays! The menu features many of the favorite dishes diners have grown to love over the years, as well as new dishes. Consider the Molcajete Caliente featuring your choice of meats grilled with onion, potato, and bell pepper, topped with cheese and salsa verde. Or try the Bistec de Palomilla with thin-sliced steak with onions and parsley that comes with a signature steak sauce. El Ranchito fans will appreciate the remodeled restaurant, which now includes a 50-seat outside patio. Despite the changes, the food remains as scrumptious as ever. Enjoy amigos!

Guru Restaurant CLERMONT HILLSIDE TERRACE, 2400 S. U.S. 27, SUITE 101, CLERMONT 352.241.9884 | GURURESTAURANTCLERMONT.COM Owned by Chef Uday Kadam, Guru has a following of fans who savor the delicious, award-winning Indian cuisine inside the restaurant’s beautiful dining room filled with Indian décor and tables with linen tablecloths. Guru earned the prestigious Best Entrée award at the 2021 Taste of South Lake & Business Expo for its Chicken Tikka Masala, featuring boneless chicken pieces cooked in a Tandoor oven with tomato sauce, onion, aromatic herbs, spices, and served with Basmati rice. Guru also has tasty appetizers, Naan breads, vegan dishes, and a wide array of entrees, including Palak Paneer, a dish of homemade cubes of cheese cooked with spinach and fresh spices; Lamb Vindaloo of choice lamb cubes marinated in vinegar with potato and a blend of spices; and Tandoori Chicken Tikka, where the chicken is marinated in mild spices and yogurt. Additionally, Indian alcoholic beverages of Taj Mahal and Kingfisher are served at Guru, and the restaurant caters private functions, parties, and provides many delivery options for orders made online at mygurutogo.com.

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Mon, Wed, Thu 11:00am – 8:00pm Friday 11:00am – 9:00pm Saturday 12:00pm – 9:00pm Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm Closed Tuesday

Sun – Sat 11:00am – 10:00pm Follow us on Facebook for daily specials and entertainment!

Visit our Villages location!

El Ranchito Restaurant 1 La Grande Blvd, The Villages 352.750.3335

Mon – Sat 11:30am – 10:00pm Sunday 11:30am – 7:00pm

DINING GUIDE

La Palma Mexican Grill

Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

1690 CITRUS BLVD., LEESBURG | 352.323.1444 | LAPALMAGRILL.COM The entire staff invites you to a delicious dining experience at La Palma Mexican Grill. The recipes used for the restaurant’s unique dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Mexico, combined with culinary inspirations from California and Louisiana. Homemade Mexican entrees such as Tacos Azteca, carnitas, fajitas, Chori Pollo, tamales and more, are flavorful and prepared with only the freshest of ingredients. Sit comfortably in the beautiful dining room, the festive bar, or outside on the patio deck with a serene view of the grounds and of the fun wild animals that can be spotted in the trees. Enjoy fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, three-for-one margaritas all day, every day, and a party room, available by reservation, for large parties or meetings.

Full menu at lapalmagrill.com. Call for daily specials.

Lunch Specials 11:00am – 3:00pm Margarita Mondays!

Enjoy $5 margaritas all day every Monday.

AK! BWWAA ck ’clo o ve fi ’s It ere! somewh

Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 352.753.2722 | 304 US-441, LADY LAKE Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant in Lady Lake has the distinct honor of calling itself a true family-owned restaurant. In fact, five generations of family members have represented the restaurant since its humble beginnings in May 1962. As many generations of customers have dined there throughout the years thanks to the outstanding service and scrumptious dishes such as Spaghetti a la Bruzzi, Delmonico steak, and lasagna. This food savvy family prepares everything from scratch, crafting everything with love to satisfy your taste buds.

Prime 3 on Main Steakhouse HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LEESBURG, 610 W MAIN ST, LEESBURG 352.314.0015 | PRIME3STEAKHOUSE.COM The dream and concept of three lifelong physicians, Prime 3 on Main is a confluence of American, Asian, and Latin influences in one world-class restaurant. Prime meats, prime rib, skirt steak, and seafood are our specialties. Our filet with black cherry port wine reduction sauce, or the Grouper Fromage, is unique and found nowhere else. Our Casa de Rosado Churrasco is a personal family recipe. Homemade Creme Brûlée and ice cream will complement your meal. Recently given the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine as among the world’s top wine and food restaurants, Prime 3 on Main has an extensive wine list and caters to small and large groups.

Wed – Sun 4:00pm – 9:00pm Closed Monday & Tuesday

Full Gluten-Free Menu

Mon – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm Closed Sundays Lunch 11:00am – 3:00pm No Reservations Needed Dinner 4:00pm - 9:00pm Reservations Required Ask us about our Wine Pairing Event Dinners!

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DINING GUIDE

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant

Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

26736 U.S HIGHWAY 27, LEESBURG | 352.319.8093 | RODELLOS.COM Chef Amadeo Avila invites you to enjoy authentic and fresh Italian cuisine in a friendly, comfortable dining environment at Rodello’s Italian Restaurant. The recipes used for his dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Italy—the restaurant is named for a city in the old country—with new culinary inspirations that Chef Amadeo has learned during many years in the restaurant business.

Flavorful, homemade Italian entrees such as Pistachio Crusted Lamb, Salmon Saltimbocca, Lobster Ravioli, Shrimp Risotto, and many others are classics and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. The lunch menu features personal pizzas, calzones, subs, and pasta. Sit in the spacious dining room or enjoy drinks or desserts like delicious gelato in the cozy lounge, which features a full bar, wine menu, and an array of specialty cocktails. Always look for new features on Chef Amadeo’s menu, available on the restaurant’s website, Rodellos.com.

TooJay’s LAKE SUMTER LANDING 1129 CANAL ST., THE VILLAGES | 352.430.0410 BROWNWOOD PADDOCK SQUARE 2835 BROWNWOOD BLVD., THE VILLAGES | 352.350.2122 TOOJAYS.COM

Mon – Sun 8:00am – 8:00pm No Matter How Big or Small We Cater it All! And, We Deliver!

800-GO4-DELI

Serving your favorite New York Style Deli Food since 1981, we offer hearty portions of homemade comfort foods like Shepherd’s Pie and Beef Brisket, handcrafted sandwiches such as our classic Hot Pastrami and Corned Beef, made-from-scratch soups like our famous Matzo Ball and Chicken Noodle, handmade, award-winning cakes including our Banana Dream and Chocolate Killer, just to name a few. Our extensive menu includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options for everyone.

We have an incredible over the counter offering of deli meats and cheeses, as well as made fresh-daily breads. Our catering menu is one of the best in town, with options for both social gatherings and corporate functions.

Would you like to see your restaurant in our dining section?

CALL US AT 352.787.4112

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FINAL THOUGHT

RELO CATIO N

Home is where you make it!

Moving can be difficult, but there is therapy in unlikely places.

STORY: GINA HORAN

n July of 2021, I gave up rent control, views of the Golden Gate Bridge, a steady income and lifelong friends and moved from the West Coast to Florida.

It was one of the most painful decisions of my life.

But my mom needed me, and I didn’t want to let her down.

I said my goodbyes, drove 5,000 miles through 17 states, visited 12 ballparks and listened to dozens of podcasts.

The solo road trip kept me blissfully unaware that starting over at 55 would be more challenging than I thought. After all, I wasn’t entering into the vibrant social world of The Villages; I was moving to Oxford to live with my mom and her cat.

Sure, I had family here, but I felt lost and alone like the new kid in the

school cafeteria who transferred in the middle of her senior year.

Finding solace in my local watering hole allowed me to escape reality by watching sports and commiserating with fellow bartenders, but it was empty and expensive. It took months to find a job, even in an industry desperate for help.

Luckily, I found the therapy I desperately needed by driving along local backroads.

Noticing the lush flora and diverse fauna eventually pulled me out of the pity party and reminded me that there is beauty everywhere. From the canopies of Spanish Moss that hover over the roads to the Sandhill Cranes that show up out of nowhere, nature is abundant here. Where else can you see an alligator at a country club?

I’m so grateful for Lake and Sumter counties and everything

they offer. In less than an hour’s drive, I can SCUBA in a cave or snorkel with manatees. I can take a seaplane ride in Tavares, enjoy the Chain of Lakes or fly through rivers on an airboat in Lake Panasoffkee.

We have a German bakery in Yalaha, microbreweries in Leesburg and a restaurant scene in Mount Dora that rivals Orlando and Tampa.

Entertainment in The Villages is robust and thriving.

After 2½ years, I’m happy to say I’ve made friends in unlikely places and found a sense of accomplishment working with incredibly supportive, gracious and creative people.

I’m finally able to appreciate Florida family gatherings, my mom, her cat and, ironically, a new baby kitty that wandered onto the porch from a backroad behind our house.

Hey, readers! Is there a particular subject that you would like me to write a commentary about? Tell me, via email, at gina@akersmediagroup.com.

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GINA HORAN

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