Style Magazine, May 2023

“We can honestly say that whilst we were somewhat reluctant to sign with Wiseman owing to the long lead time from contract signing to completion, the finished product was well worth the wait. The custom design is exactly what we asked for and we maintain that the craftsmanship of the pool, spa, equipment, pavers, screen enclosure, and summer kitchen are second to none.”

— TOM & LYNDA MURPHY

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.

Keep your family comfy with the Ellis Power Reclining Sofa with Power Headrests. Using a power control that independently adjusts the headrests and recline, those sitting on either end can put their feet up while watching TV. USB charging ports built into the controls provide convenient access to power for your devices, so you can stream movies for hours at a time.

Ellis

Available in two premium leathers

LIVE LIFE PAIN FREE, AGAIN

At Advanced Orthopedics Institute we specialize in hips, knees, shoulders, ankles, wrists...and golfers.

If you are experiencing hip pain, playing a round of golf, climbing stairs, walking through the grocery store, even driving can be a challenge.

Our experience has expanded the boundaries of possibility in joint replacement, providing you with the most effective solutions for your unique needs, so you can get back to doing what you love most.

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDICS INSTITUTE

For all of our advanced technologies and leading edge breakthroughs in joint repair and replacement, the advancements we at AOI are most proud of are those that our patients make in reclaiming their quality of life. If you are experiencing pain or weakness in a knee, shoulder, or hip and feel it’s time to do something about it, there’s no time like right now.

COME SEE US, WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.

IMAGELIFT COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

Facial and cosmetic plastic surgery in Tampa and The Villages®

DR. RICH CASTELLANO

is a Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon as seen on:

Schedule your appointment today!

352.227.1501

PLAZA CADILLAC

We wanted an EV, and the Cadillac name has always been synonymous with quality. The LYRIQ has been all we expected and more. Cadillac has delivered on its promise of luxury, comfort, and quality in a superb EV vehicle. The service from Plaza Cadillac and Rick Jimenez has been over the top excellent, and we look forward to many years of driving our new LYRIQ.

— JOHN AND MELANIE DELUE

RickJimenez,Salesperson

John and Melanie Delue

PLAZA LINCOLN

I would definitely recommend this dealer. Excellent Sales and Service team and they followed through on all commitments. Overall experience was 5 stars!

—DAVID SMITH

Mike Killngsworth

SherritaSmith,Salesperson(left)

Tony Pagano,GeneralSalesManager(right)

David Smith

102

Blessed and blessing others

In light of National Silence the Shame Day on May 5—a day to focus on erasing the stigma associated with mental health—we look at how Chick-fil-A Owner Rocky DeStefano is making a world of difference, one employee at a time.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

104

The skinny on Ozempic

Is the drug Ozempic a magic bullet to shed pounds or just another weight loss scam?

STORY: RICHARD BOSSHARDT

035 Women on the rise

Our much-anticipated 2023 Businesswomen of Style issue is here! Meet successful local women who lead with determination, honesty, compassion, and respect.

030

In the business of succeeding

Meet Lindsey Mallory, our 2023 Businesswoman of the Year. She helps women feel empowered by offering spray tanning, a healthy alternative to achieving a nice glow.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

Women mean business

he excitement mounts at Lake and Sumter Style’s annual Businesswomen of Style annual reverse drawing. Most competitors have been eliminated; we’re down to the nal two. It’s the moment everyone has been waiting for.

The winner will be pictured on Style’s cover and be featured in a four-page spread inside.

Two anxious ladies cross their ngers and breathe deeply as emcee Doug Akers makes the exciting announcement. “And our 2023 Businesswoman of the Year is . . .”

The winner clutches her chest in disbelief. Her eyes grow wide as she lets out a victory scream and then enthusiastically embraces co-workers who accompanied her. This exciting scene plays out every year during our Businesswomen of Style event.

We’ve been doing this for 11 years, but I never grow tired of witnessing the winner’s joyous reaction. Of course, the winner isn’t the only one having a good time. Everyone has a blast socializing

and networking while enjoying free food and drinks.

The event is a fantastic way to celebrate the area’s talented businesswomen.

You’ll meet many of these incredible ladies in this month’s issue, which I hope inspires females in high school and college to earn that degree, chase your dream job, and come to work each day with a positive attitude and passionate heart. Settle for nothing but the very best. Surround yourself with likeminded women who are supportive of all your ambitions. One day you’ll be a role model for many other young girls and ladies.

I’d like to close this letter with two eye-opening statistics. In 2020, there were 109,000 more women working than men, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2022, women accounted for more than half (50.7 percent) of the college-educated labor force in the U.S., according to the Pew Research Center.

Kendra Akers OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com

Doug Akers PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL

Michael Gaulin CREATIVE DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

Shawnee Coppola DESIGNER shawnee@akersmediagroup.com

Alejandra D’Jermanos DESIGNER alejandra@akersmediagroup.com

Brittany Fogt DESIGNER brittany@akersmediagroup.com

James Combs STAFF WRITER james@akersmediagroup.com

Roxanne Brown STAFF WRITER roxanne@akersmediagroup.com

Nicole Hamel STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER nicole@akersmediagroup.com

Kyle Coppola DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST kyle@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Cindy Peterson Cynthia McFarland

Richard T. Bosshardt, MD Gina Horan

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Gary Corsair

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Cindy Peterson

SALES / MARKETING

Tim McRae VICE PRESIDENT, SALES tim@akersmediagroup.com

Melanie Melvin DIRECTOR OF MARKETING melanie@akersmediagroup.com

Shaena Long ADVERTISING COORDINATOR shaena@akersmediagroup.com

ADMINISTRATION

Aubrey Akers Simmons ACCOUNT & CLIENT SERVICES aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

Emily Gaulin OFFICE MANAGER emily@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

Frank Suarez DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Sincerely,

Kendra

Dudes in suits aren’t dominating the business landscape anymore.

RBOI Spearheads

Groundbreaking

Melanoma Treatment

More than 59,000 people worldwide die each year from metastatic malignant melanoma. For almost half a century, this aggressive disease has been resistant to radiation.

However, research led by Dr. Norman Anderson at the Robert Boisonneault Oncology Institute has shown that giving frequent, very low radiation doses can eliminate all signs of the disease, reduce side effects significantly, and extend patient survival, for a small fraction of the cost of other treatments.

More than 20 years ago, Anderson had successfully treated a man whose metastatic melanoma had produced 23 brain lesions. Today that man remains cancer-free, with no adverse radiation effects. That discovery led to a study with 19 patients, whose melanomas together had metastasized to the brain, other areas of the head, neck, lung, abdomen, liver, pelvis, and extremities, along with lymph nodes.

They had all exhausted their other treatment options. Each patient received twice-daily, low-dose radiation, and all experienced complete remission. In addition, the repeated radiation may have led to an immune response that eliminated tumors outside the treatment area.

“The use of twice-daily treatment for malignant melanoma is a radical change from what is considered ‘state of the art,’” Anderson says. He adds that their improved survival is significant, especially without the use of immune or targeted therapy. “The occurrence of further disease elsewhere over time is markedly diminished, if not eliminated, now approaching and beyond 10 years for some patients.”

Dr. Anderson adds that further study may determine whether immunotherapy, combined with this approach, can lead to a cure. Call RBOI to learn more.

by the numbers

99,780

Estimated melanoma cases diagnosed in the U.S. in 2022

Skin Cancer: Know the Signs

The marks on our skin change over time, from aging or from seasonal variation, but also from skin cancer. How can you tell when you should see your doctor?

Learn your skin patterns. Skin selfexams work best in a well-lit room before a full-length mirror. Use a hand-held mirror for hard-to-see places like the backs of your thighs. Examine all areas, including your palms and soles, scalp, ears, nails, and back.

Changes in how your skin looks or feels could be a cancer warning sign. Signs include skin that is red, swollen, scaly, or crusty, that feels itchy, tender, or painful, or that is oozing and bleeding.

Key warning signs for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas include a new growth, a spot or bump that grows larger, or a sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks. Key warning signs for melanomas also include mole changes. Tell your doctor if something doesn’t look right.

2.1%

Lifetime risk of developing melanoma of the skin

Moles: Benign, or Melanoma?

When examining moles, use the ABCDE rule:

A = Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.

B = Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C = Color: Color is not the same all over and may include different shades of brown or black, or may have patches of pink, red, white, or blue.

D = Diameter: Spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about pencil eraser width).

E = Evolving: The mole’s size, shape, or color changes.

Also check to see if a spot looks different from all the other spots on your skin. If you see something that doesn’t look right or that causes you concern, tell your doctor.

1,361,282

Estimated number of people living with melanoma of the skin in the U.S.

93.7%

5-year survival rate among all people with melanoma of the skin, from the time of initial diagnosis

The Villages 352.259.2200

Ocala 352.732.0277

Timber Ridge 352.861.2400

Inverness 352.726.3400

Lecanto 352.527.0106

RBOI.com

first

OUTSTANDING STUDENT

As a gifted tennis player, a dedicated volunteer, and beauty pageant contestant, Reese Ponds continues serving up greatness.

DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

Did you know that President Calvin Coolidge and his wife Grace stayed at Mount Dora’s Lakeside Inn in 1930? During a month-long vacation, the First Couple spent much of their time shing and exploring the county’s beautiful waterways. In the evening, they relaxed on the grand veranda rocking chairs and watched spectacular sunsets over Lake Dora. The room they stayed in is today called the Calvin Coolidge Suite.

HEADING FOR THE HILLS

Clermont’s gentle, rolling hills are a wonderfully unique anomaly in the attest state in the nation. That may be one reason why Clermont is the seventh fastest-growing city in the state according to 2023 United States Census Bureau data. Of course, the city has plenty of other inducements, such as hiking and biking trails, a historic, quaint downtown, and the Clermont Chain of Lakes.

PLAY IT COOL

Though humidity will surely rear its ugly head this month, kids can still enjoy the great outdoors at the Children’s Splash Pad at Wooton Park in Tavares, the Leesburg Splash Pad and Pavilion at Venetian Gardens; Champion’s Splash Park at Waterfront Park in Clermont, and the Eustis Splash Pad at

BE BEAR AWARE

Exploring Lake County’s nature trails and preserves brings a sense of peace and solitude. However, we must be prepared to encounter animals in their natural habitat. On May 6, a park ranger will lead a hike at Pine Meadows Conservation Area in Eustis and explain how to stay safe during an encounter. Call 352.431.8798 for more information.

WE’RE NOT TELLING A WHOPPER

May is National Hamburger Month, but that doesn’t mean you should make a beeline to the nearest fast-food restaurant. Consider this: to burn calories you gained after eating a Big Mac and large fries, and drinking a large Coke, you would have to walk nonstop for six hours. Sounds like a not-so-happy meal.

MAKE A MENTAL NOTE

On May 5, National Silence the Shame Day presents an opportunity to continue the conversation about mental health and wellness and erase the stigma associated with mental illness, which should be treated like any other health concern. Many people su er in silence due to the stigma of being diagnosed, so it’s more important than ever to remind people that’s it’s okay to seek help because mental illness is treatable, and recovery is possible. National Silence the Shame Day o ers education and awareness, promotes conversation about mental health, wellness, mental illness, and recovery. To help spread the word on May 5, share #SilenceTheShame on social media.

MAIN EVENT

Local business owners and members of the community had the opportunity to meet new Clermont Main Street Executive Director Jenn Wimberly during a meet-and-greet in her honor on March 23 at the Galleria at SOMA in downtown Clermont. People were able to network, talk with Jenn, and enjoy refreshments, all while learning more about Clermont Main Street. The organization is comprised of businesses focused on elevating Clermont’s historic downtown and encouraging visitors to visit often to explore all it has to o er. Jenn brings years of experience, excitement, and passion to the position.

FORE!

The Epson Tour, the o cial qualifying tour of the Ladies Professional Golf Association, is slated to return to the stately El Campeón Golf Course at Mission Inn Resort & Club at 10400 CR 48 in Howey-in-the-Hills on May 26-28 starting at 7am. Admission is free. Food and drinks will be available. For more information, call 352.324.3101, email mbowery@missioninnresort.com, or visitwww.missioninnchampionship.com.

WINE DOWN

You are invited to Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 US Hwy. 27 in Clermont, for ‘Weekends at the Winery May’ starting at 10 am on May 6-7, 1314, 20-21, and 27-28. Guests will enjoy the venue’s expansive vineyard green, including delicious food vendors, live entertainment, and their favorite Lakeridge wines at their outdoor bar. Complimentary tours and tastings will be held throughout the day.

CALLING ALL MOMS

Don’t forget to show some love to your mom, grandmother, sister, friend, or any other mom you know come Mother’s Day on May 14. The special day is a time to honor motherhood and show appreciation to moms of all kinds for all their love, hard work and sacri ce.

Otis Taylor

Clermont transplant puts his heart into helping where help is needed most.

• Born in Chicago

• Launched automotive career as a drivability specialist

What led you to found the Give A Day Foundation? After leaving my job in 2011 to become a caregiver for my mother-in-law, I had an awakening to go out and help others. I wanted to volunteer, but found I had

• Happily married to Sandra for 19 years

• Moved to Clermont in 2011

I also founded and lead: Champion Circle, a youth empowerment program for young men ages 14 to 19 who meet every Friday and Saturday during June and July. And the Think Tank, a monthly together to learn about each other’s services, learn best practices and make even more of a di erence

• Blended family of four sons, three daughters and six grandchildren

I love Clermont because: Our community is a melting pot. And Clermont has so much year-round outdoor recreation.

My greatest accomplishment: Over the years of owning my own automotive repair shop, having employees and being in management, I truly feel my greatest accomplishment was founding Give A Day Foundation because it brings so many people together in so many di erent ways.

Live in the moment.

Words to live by:: Be the change you want

enjoy things like bowling, playing chess, playing

putting together puzzles, di erent card games and of course, cruising.

Three words that humorous, realist.

I would love to: Drive a two- or three-week west coast/east coast trip.

Music I enjoy listening to: Spa, easy listening, and contemporary Christian.

I most admire: Any and all people in the world who have looked beyond their disabilities to live life to the fullest. Two awesome people I know who come to mind are Allison Fogarty, who owns Doggy Delights, and Sterling Reed, owner of Vibrantek Solutions.

INTERVIEWER: ROXANNE BROWN ≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

REESE PONDS

Lady Lake teen blessed with beauty, brains, and a positive spirit, uses talents to help her community.

• Varsity tennis team

• Received the Golden Presidential Volunteer Award

Topping my playlist is: Morgan Wallen, of course!

In the future: I plan on attending the University of Florida to become a veterinarian, and on the side become a youth pastor. Ever since I was little, I have always been obsessed with animals. I would even practice surgery on my stu ed animals.

I look up to: My brother and my best friend, Meghan. Even though my brother and I ght, he is still the kindest and most amazing person I have met. As he prepares to go to college, I look up to him even more, because he never gives up. And Meghan was put in my life at just the right time. She accepts me for me, and I couldn’t make it through high school without her.

My message to the world:

My dream superpower would be:

The ability to y. One of my goals in life is to visit as many countries as I can before I no longer have the ability to do so, and ying myself would be 10 times easier. Email

INTERVIEW & PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON

Always take time to help others, and keep God first in everything that you do.

Former Teen Miss Leesburg Sophomore at First Academy

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital has received an ‘A’ safety rating from the Leapfrog Group for the ninth consecutive time. We are the only hospital in Lake County to receive an ‘A’ during the fall 2022 grading period. Our commitment to quality, safety and you have been proven for over 75 years, and we are proud to continue delivering top-level service for all. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/SouthLake

The Leapfrog Group Hospital Safety Score Program, Fall 2022.

Glowing inspiration

Lindsey Mallory’s goal

and SPRAY tan women to perfection.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL + PROVIDED

indsey Mallory is a woman who wears many hats.

She’s a wife, a mother, and as of ve years ago after founding SPRAY Mobile Tanning, a businesswoman on a mission to make a di erence in other women’s lives.

“I want to be an inspiration to my children and show them that as a woman, you can do and have it all,” says Lindsey. “I want them to see me as a homemaker and as Businesswoman of the Year.”

Lindsey graduated from Leesburg High School in 2009. She attended college for a bit, and before turning 26, she had three beautiful children–two daughters and a son.

In 2018, Lindsey’s father Tony Hornsby, a local entrepreneur and Lindsey’s inspiration, passed away, leaving her with a desire to follow in his footsteps and start her own company. The only question was what service could she o er that would o er the exibility she needed to t in with her ‘mom schedule?’

“I needed to do something for myself, outside of my children and my husband, so I thought maybe I could go into people’s homes and o er a service. I always love being tan. I’m a tan fanatic, obviously, so I decided on spray tanning,” says Lindsey, explaining that she’s been getting tans

since her pageant days growing up. “I was never the girl who wanted to go get her nails done. I used to go to the tanning bed in high school, but spray tanning is the healthier alternative because the UV rays aren’t going directly on your body.”

In 2019, Lindsey launched SPRAY Mobile Tanning and began o ering spray tans to women in the comfort of their own homes. Lindsey worked hard to overcome the old stigma surrounding spray tans by ensuring that by way of her technique and products, her tans look natural.

Before long, her business was rolling … that is, until COVID hit in 2020.

During the pandemic, Lindsey kept busy at home by formulating her own line of tanning products. That’s when SPRAY’s “Tan in a Can” (which became Lindsey’s most sought-after product) was born.

“I want to be the ‘go-to girl for all things sunless,’ and I knew I could do it with these products,” Lindsey says. “Sure, you can go into a store and buy a self-tanner, but why not buy it from someone who does tanning every day and that can educate you and explain how it works? You can buy something o the shelf and even though it might be a little cheaper, it may not be quality. But with my product, you’re getting better and much longer lasting results.”

Additionally, Lindsey was inspired to use her platform to uplift women by reminding them how beautiful they are and that no matter their size, shape, or

is to inspire, empower

“TRYING TO MAKE WOMEN FEEL BEAUTIFUL IN THEIR OWN SKIN, IS NOT ONLY MY MOTTO, BUT MY PASSION."

—LINDSEY MALLORY

several hair stylists she trained who

when we opened the store, and from multiple events over the years, we’ve enjoyed hosting spray mobile tanning in our storefront, and our customers has been the o cial sponsor for Miss

sure I’m tanned and glowing for every occasion, but she’s the ultimate ‘hype woman.’ She always goes above and beyond rooting for me and for all of her clients.”

Prominent Fox owner Leigh Ann Berry has also been tanned by Lindsey, and is very familiar with her products, so agreeing to carry them at her store was a no-brainer.

“It’s always nice to book with Lindsey, but she’s so busy that you can’t always get in, so having her products is good because you can still do it yourself,” Leigh Ann says. “Since the day I put her products out, they’ve been big sellers. I can barely keep them in the store.”

Leigh Ann is not only a fan of ‘Tan in a Can’ and other products of Lindsey’s; she is a huge fan of her message and what she stands for.

“I think every woman that meets her has an immediate bond with her because she’s just so easygoing, fun, and completely genuine.”

Today, Lindsey has a full product line that includes two di erent shades of mousse, an aerosol mist, and an extender. All are long-lasting, easy to use, a ordable, and aromatic.

Lindsey also SPRAYs clients in the comfort of their own home via her Luxury Mobile service, specializing in special events, pageants, and everyday life. Plus, she’s hired other women to o er her products/ services in Myrtle Beach, SC, Atlanta, and Jacksonville.

“I may be a hot mess, but people’s tans don’t have to be,” Lindsey says with a smile.

In the future, Lindsey says she’d like to work with

“LINDSEY’S A GREAT GIRL. WE HIT IT OFF IMMEDIATELY. SHE LOVES TO MAKE WOMEN FEEL BEAUTIFUL AND MORE CONFIDENT AND SHE’S BECOME A GREAT FRIEND,” SAYS LEIGH ANN.

Lindsay Bettis

Leigh Ann Berry

Bryttany Phillips, Lindsey Mallory, and Sara Boykin-O’Neil

the State of Florida on establishing a program for people interested in learning how to spray tan safely and properly and be certi ed through her.

She also has her eyes set on becoming the tanning guru for the country music scene in Nashville.

Lindsey says whatever she accomplishes going forward will always embody her calling to enhance the lives of other women and be a good role model for her children.

BUSINESS GIVES ME A SENSE OF PURPOSE AND FULFILLMENT I WANT OTHER WOMEN TO FEEL THAT TOO.”

“My brand is bigger than just a brand. It’s a whole lifestyle and it embodies everything I do as a woman, and as a mother,” Lindsey says. “My business gives me a sense of purpose and ful llment and I want other women to feel that too.”

Lindsey says that the women she’s touched may not realize how much they’ve touched her, too.

“Trying to make women feel beautiful in their own skin is not only my motto, but my passion. I’m constantly telling my clients

“MY

of style business women

Hold on to your hat! You’re about to meet some of the most savvy and stylish businesswomen whose hard work, perseverance, and dedication have helped them blossom into outstanding leaders in the business community.

The Kentucky Derby is a popular, longstanding May tradition, but for the women of Morris Realty and Investments, expertise is a year-round tradition.

Owner Theresa Morris has brought together a group of outstanding female agents who pride themselves on putting clients first.

When it comes to guiding clients through their buying or selling journey, these ladies are off to the races.

This all-star team has a clear understanding of the local market and an intimate familiarity with Lake County. Dedicated to helping their clients succeed, these agents operate

off a foundation of honesty, integrity, knowledge, and community pride.

Their efforts are the reason Morris Realty and Investments consistently ranks among the top 10 agencies in Lake and Sumter counties.

Having built and nurtured relationships in all aspects of the industry, these ladies have solid connections with local vendors and businesses to ensure that they can confidently answer questions and guide their clients through the entire transaction successfully. They are routinely going above and beyond to meet and exceed expectations.

All the women on the team are up to date with current laws, regulations, and real estate trends. They make a point of blending old and new marketing ideas to ensure maximum exposure of listings— statewide, nationally, and internationally. Many of the agents were also born and raised right here in Lake County. Their love for community shows, as they serve as board members for local organizations and actively participate in area charities. When betting on your success in Real Estate, putting one of these ladies on your side is the best bet you could ever make!

Shelly Evey SALON MANAGER/HAIR STYLIST

Nicole Campbell HAIR STYLIST

Christie Truluck HAIR STYLIST

Imagine walking into a practice where the doctor greets you with a smile, spends ample time examining you and explaining your condition, and even gets to know you on a personal level.

That’s the kind of treatment patients receive from Dr. Jaya B. Kumar, a board-certified, fellowshiptrained vitreoretinal specialist. Dr. Kumar has been with Florida Retina Institute for five years and has developed an outstanding reputation for providing outstanding care.

She prides herself on offering the latest technology to treat vitreoretinal-related conditions. However, she also understands there

is a difference in caring versus merely delivering health care.

“I truly get to know my patients; not just their medical conditions,” Dr. Kumar says. “I also make my patients feel comfortable and help them understand what’s going on so I can treat them to the best of my ability.”

“For me, the most important aspect of being a good retina specialist is helping them maintain their vision and independence.”

790 U.S. Hwy. 441, Lady Lake 352.259.9944

Floridaretinainstitute.com

Dr. Jaya

B. Kumar

Hearing Center Audibel

Kimberly Scopino’s passion for helping the hearing impaired, you can say, is a family affair.

She grew up around numerous family members with hearing impairments and today—as a board certified, hearing instrument specialist with Audibel Hearing Center in Lady Lake—works alongside her daughter-in-law Jamie Eveleth helping people with similar conditions.

“I’ve been living with hearing impaired my whole life. My grandfather and uncles had hearing impairments and that’s where my passion for helping the hearing impaired started,” Kimberly says.

At Audibel, Jamie serves as the hearing services coordinator, taking care of patients’ insurance and scheduling needs, and as a tech, assisting Kim.

As a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, Kim is multiline certified and has worked in the field for 21 years. She is well known in the industry for her expertise and award-winning techniques.

Audibel, the hearing aid manufacturered by Starkey Hearing Technologies, founded by Bill Austin, provides products manufactured in the United States and is committed to helping people with their hearing, regardless of price and technologies. Audibel Hearing Center (at Spanish Springs) 975 Del Mar Drive, Lady Lake 352.391.5710 kim_scopino@audibel.com

For Amanda Neil, nothing excites her more than seeing people feel well again.

“I get to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” she says. “Helping people get back to the activities they love is so rewarding.”

Amanda is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care in

Leesburg. Since opening the practice in August 2021, Amanda has received a great deal of positive feedback from patients throughout Lake County who appreciate the superior care they receive.

“Word of mouth has been tremendous and has helped our practice achieve great success,” she says.

Her unique model of health care allows patients to pay a flat monthly fee for unlimited access to medical treatment. She offers women’s health, men’s health, mental health, primary care, and weight loss programs.

“We do it all—everything from IVs to blood draws,” she says.

Amanda Neil

Nadia Mamonvil LaToya Wright

Sarah Hullender

AmyEster

Family Nurse Practitioner

Anchored in Health

4060 Thomas St., Suite 4, Oxford AnchoredNHealth.com 352.203.3074

Amy started her journey in the medical field serving in the US Army as an X-ray tech, but it was during her deployment to Iraq, where she realized she wanted to be more involved with her patients and the care they received, which started her journey into nursing.

“I always knew that I wanted to be more than just a bedside nurse, so I continued my journey to become a nurse practitioner. “Amy says.

With a background in women’s health, pediatrics, and emergency medicine, plus added frustration with insurance companies’ limitations, Amy branched out and opened her own practice: Anchored in Health.

“It’s called direct primary care, I’m bringing the patient back to the forefront of their healthcare,” Amy says.

As a family nurse practitioner, Amy focuses on general health matters, including annual and well child visits, women’s issues, sick and acute visits, weight management, vitamin infusions and more.

Additionally, the practice is membership based, so patients pay a monthly fee for inclusive visits, meaning no co-pays and easier access when you need it the most.

“I want my patients to be a part of their healthcare decisions and my ultimate goal is to develop lasting relationships with my patients,” Amy adds.

Some women drive from town to town searching for flattering dresses, perfect-fitting pants, and party-ready jumpsuits. Oftentimes, they have no luck.

Fortunately, their weary search is now over.

Ivy Parnasius is owner of Ivy Boutique, located in historic downtown Mount Dora. Her passion lies in helping women find outfits at surprisingly low prices that make them look and feel great “My goal is to make everyone who leaves this store happier than when they came in,” she says. “I want them to feel beautiful inside and out.”

At Ivy Boutique, customers will find a wide selection of women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, a girl’s line of clothing, and plus-size clothing. For Ivy, one of the greatest joys is helping women celebrate life milestones.

“I love helping them pick out an outfit for their first date, and then for their rehearsal dinner, and then for their bridal shower,” she says. “We offer easy-to-wear styles and keep our clothing affordable.”

Ivy has been in the retail business for 20 years. She first opened a store in Colorado that she later sold.

“Shortly after selling that store, I realized in my heart how much the

retail business means to me,” she says. “Six months later I opened another store because I missed the connections I made with customers.”

Ivy Boutique in Mount Dora opened in December 2020. For her, operating a boutique store in Mount Dora was a longtime dream. She became familiar with the town when her father moved to Mount Dora 30 years ago.

“I love being part of the Mount Dora community,” she says. “The people are so down to earth and friendly.”

Ivy Boutique is a true familyowned business. Her husband, Brian, and daughter, Fallon, help her operate the company.

Crossing Coleman

Mesmerizing. Eye-Catching. One-of-a-kind.

These are the words often uttered by those visiting Coleman Crossing. It’s all because of the creative work of three passionate women who own separate stores on the property.

Linda Brock owns Linda’s Specialty Card Shop. She makes handmade cards for anniversaries, weddings, pets, and special holidays. “If someone comes in my store and wants a specialized card, I can do that for them in 20 minutes,” she says.

Elaine Oldendorp owns Elaine's Glass Fusion shop. She does glass fusion, which is the art of making

a design using glass. In addition to glass art, she also sells jewelry and home goods. ‘I’m a glass-o-holic,” she says. “I love taking a 12x12 piece of glass and making it into something beautiful.”

Carmen King, an interior designer, is owner of Artporium. She and her brother-in-law, Jack Satterstrom, make beautiful artwork out of rocks and stones. She also sells jewelry, lamps and lighting, fabrics, and gifts. “Jack is the rockhound, and I’m the rock star,” she jokes.

100 S. Commercial St. Coleman Colemancrossing100.com

Joanne Dr. Balkaran

1865 Nightingale Lane, Ste. A, Tavares 352.385.7718

theankleandfootcenter.com

After 14 years as a leading podiatrist in the area, Dr. Joanne Balkaran is making history as the only Central Florida doctor using an innovative technique in foot & ankle surgery.

It all started during the coronavirus pandemic when hospitals were only accommodating trauma and emergency surgeries. Dr. Balkaran began learning and training in minimal incision surgeries, and then became certified in the specialty; therefore, allowing her to perform such surgeries at the hospital, as well as at her practice at the Ankle & foot Center of central Florida in Tavares.

“I’m going to learn something effective to help my patients, so I created a niche,’” she recalls, explaining that the main benefits of minimal incision as compared to traditional surgery are minimal scarring, local anesthesia, less pain, early walking, and a downtime of approximately one week versus six-eight weeks.

Dr. Balkaran says she also hired two doctors— Rikesh Patel and Blanca Diaz—to augment the practice and all three treat everything below the knee from pediatrics to geriatrics. Dr. Patel specializes in trauma, reconstruction, and hospital care. Dr. Diaz covers the office patients. This allows Dr. Balkaran to focus on minimal incision, as well as deformity correction surgeries.

Village

Institute of Plastic Surgery

Tatiana

Jamie

Jeanne

Ashley

Carrie

At Village Institute of Plastic Surgery our team of providers and support staff are passionate about aesthetic medicine. “It is very fulfilling when you get to play a role in helping to boost someone’s confidence,” says Office Manager Tatiana Kearsing, who has worked at VIP for over 10 years. “Our team at VIP is like a family and we treat patients the same way we would want

our loved ones to be treated,” says Jamie Rimes, Nurse and longtime Scrub Tech who has been with the team for over 13 years.

“I chose to join the VIP family because quality results and patient safety are at the heart of everything we do. I love working in a team of likeminded compassionate professionals,” says Dr. Christina Yi, Plastic Surgeon

and the practice Breast and Body surgical specialist. The team has expanded to include Nurse Practitioner Angela Ugarte and additional Physician’s Assistant, Alexis Bowhay. Also pictured are OR Manager Jeanne McGuire, Care Coordinator Ashley Bryan, Practice Manager Carrie Blevins, Patient Intake Specialist Memori Clayton and Medical Assistant Donna Riddle.

Angela

Dr. Yi

Donna

Memori Alexis

352.818.4800

BasesLoaded.biz deb@basesloaded.biz

After more than 20 years as an event manager, including 10 years planning large scale conferences and conventions for a baseball association, Deborah Jayne—a 7-year cancer survivor as of this month—moved from Arizona to Florida to be near her parents.

In December 2020, what inspired her to found Bases Loaded Consulting, is her continued passion for helping others.

By way of a study abroad program, plus an internship program she’s implemented, Deb helps businesses train future leaders. She also assists the younger generation of leaders interested in the event planning world, get started.

“You can only get so much schoolwork in to learn what you need to be successful, and after that, you have to be hands on,” says Deb. “You need to learn all the ins and outs, and see it all, and that’s where I come in.”

“I love living on a giver’s gain, it’s a win-win. I love helping people in any way I can, and pointing them in the right direction,” she adds.

*Special kudos to Lindsey House at Main Street Hair Studio

Stephanie Brionez is an accomplished lawyer making a big impact in Lake County by way of her law firm, Brionez + Brionez, P.A. d/b/a BBLaw.

After graduating from UF Law School in 2002, Stephanie worked at a large law firm in Lake County. In 2017, Stephanie and her attorney husband, Mark, not only got married, but they also took an additional leap of faith and opened their own law firm, BBLaw.

Since then, the firm has grown into a thriving practice that provides a wide range of legal services.

“We handle almost everything except family and criminal law,” Stephanie says. “We focus on local

People familiar with Walk in the Woods—a popular shop in downtown Mount Dora for more than 17 years— may be happy to know that Walk in the Woods, The Outpost is following in its footsteps.

According to Kristie Rocca, co-owner of The Outpost, both stores are outdoor retailers focused on fair trade, ecofriendly and sustainable brands geared towards “helping people prepare for life’s adventures.”

The original store carries clothing, shoes, outdoor gear, and related products necessary for hiking and outdoor fun; brands including Merrell, Olukai, Vionic, Oofos, Kavu, Royal Robbins and more. While The Outpost

Rocca

carries clothing, shoes and accessories needed for what follows.

“You may need a nice shirt or dress to go out to dinner after a day of adventure, and those are the kinds of things we carry at the new store,” Kristie says, adding those brands include Life is Good, Spartina, Roark, Reef, Hurley, FitFlop, Sanuk, and Dark Seas.

And if that’s not enough, Walk in the Woods facilitates adventures by offering free monthly guided hikes to nearby venues.

“Anybody is welcome, all levels, you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. We pick places where people feel comfortable, plus you get to meet likeminded people,” Kristie says.

Bennett Reggae

Law Center Café

Immigration and Business Law Attorney Bridgette Bennett, owner of The Bennett Law Center, has been in Groveland 16 years.

In January, she moved into ‘The All Nations Building,’ a long-awaited bigger footprint, marking the start of an exciting new chapter.

“I feel like I’m walking into a new dimension. I moved my law office, which is a huge accomplishment, and opened Reggae Café, Groveland’s only coffee shop,” Bridgette says, adding that her building’s name was inspired by Genesis 22:18, which reads ‘Through you, all nations shall be blessed.’

Bridgette says people are loving the Reggae Café’s vibe and

offerings, its ‘One Love’ theme, and spectacular view overlooking Lake David.

Additionally, Bridgette, who sits on Groveland’s strategic planning committee, is working to enhance the spirit of love, unity, diversity, and inclusion in the community by hosting local events that embody those values: The Chinese New Year Lunar Festival (January), the One Love Reggae Festival (February), and Tacos and Tequila (September).

“I’m very happy to be instrumental in moving Groveland forward from a history overshadowed by The Groveland Four, to a city known as a mecca for culture and truly ‘The city with natural charm,’” says Bridgette.

Bridgette Bennett

ATTORNEY/OWNER

Nutrition Total & Therapeutics

Total Nutrition & Therapeutics (TNT) Owner and Nurse

Practitioner Lori Esarey, considers herself a GPS expert, as well.

Instead of helping with road navigation however, she formulates directions to

help guide her team at the office and to steer patients in the direction of success while making their way to 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. It’s like GPS; a clear set of directions necessary to go from Point A to Point B,” says Lori.

With that, Lori explains that while she is at the helm, every member of the team is an essential part of the equation

and what motivates her every day.

“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,”

Lori says. “I truly am like the pilot or the captain of the ship, and while it’s a lot of responsibility and can be very stressful, at the end of the day it’s very rewarding.”

“The reason it’s rewarding however, is because I have all

the other important roles filled by the right people. It takes an army and we’re in this together for our patients.”

352.259.5190

tnt4me.com 809 Co Rd 466 unit 202-c, Lady Lake

For some people, what they see out the window is most important, but for Window Reflections Owner Roxanne Stafford, what’s covering it is her thing.

That’s because for the past 31 years, Roxanne has been in the business of designing and making custom window treatments; including all types of blinds, shades, shutters, and valances.

“When I think of how long we’ve been in business, it makes me a little teary-eyed. I feel like it’s a blessing to get up, go to work and still love what you do after all these years,”

says Roxanne, adding that she keeps her staff small, so that every customer gets the most personalized service possible.

Roxanne says it’s also very satisfying when customers thank her for her attention to detail.

“Sometimes, when I leave customers’ homes, even before we’ve installed anything yet, they’re hugging me and expressing their appreciation because they feel like they can breathe. They feel like, ‘Hey, she gets me, she’s understanding the look I’m trying to achieve, she gets my style.’”

Roxanne Stafford OWNER

Amy Pierucci

HEAD SEAMSTRESS Colleen Perry ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/COORDINATOR

the journey to be one of the greatest real estate Brokers is far from over.

For Connie and her team, there remain amazing things on the horizon for 2023 and beyond.

Always unwavering in her commitment to growth and education, Connie is close to earning her Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, as well as her Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation. Adding to her expertise in the field of real estate.

This accumulated knowledge will undoubtedly help Connie be the sharpest resource for both her customers and her agents.

After all, being a good steward of their best interests gives Connie the motivation that fuels her and a reputation that precedes her.

Simply put, Connie is a true thoroughbred of real estate and a champion for those around her. Our bet is always on #teamcmreg and the #blueshirtbrigade to bring home a win.

1.866.382.0121

ContagiousCompanies.com

Monica Wofford has been called a business turn-around expert, a trusted leadership advisor, and even a leadership issue superhero! She wears no cape but does provide exceedingly effective leadership development, one-on-one coaching, and consulting to a wide array of local, national, and international clients in industries that range from government to retail to healthcare. Her training firm, Contagious Companies, Inc., recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and Monica has been a professional speaker and trainer for ten years longer than she’s owned the business. On the horizon are several new leadership books and programs, including the LeadershipDevelopmentCenter.com.

You may know Monica for her expertise in dealing with difficult people, or as the author of “Make Difficult People Disappear”, or you may have seen pics of her playing polo on Facebook. A long-time equestrienne and Lake County resident for the last 20 years, in 2020, Monica actually owned two tiny shares of the Kentucky Derby winner, Authentic.

Rachelle Neck

CO-OWNER

Becky Pilipow

CO-OWNER

The women of The Villages Insurance Commercial Risk Management Team are part of a close-knit unit focused on ensuring statewide commercial insurance clients—anywhere from small to multi-million-dollar accounts—are taken care of.

“We handle everything from commercial property to general liability, auto, worker’s

compensation, and other additional lines,” says Senior Account Manager, Team Lead Kelly Burrows, who came on board with the company about seven years ago. “There’s no maximum to our radius. The bulk of our clients are located in The Villages -- contractors, restaurants, churches, and more. Still, we can insure anybody anywhere in the state of Florida.”

The women-strong team includes Heather Williams, Kelly Burrows, Lisa Sardisco, Barbara McDonald, and Stefanie Magnuson. Janie LeBeau, with Private Risk Management, handles the company’s high-value personal lines clientele.

“I insure highly successful individuals and their families. We take a holistic, 360-degree

Stefanie Magnuson

CLIENT RELATIONS ANALYST

Lisa Sardisco COMMERCIAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

Barbara McDonald

COMMERCIAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

approach to their assets, accounting for out-of-state and local properties, watercrafts, aviation, and jewelry so that it streamlines their portfolio better,” Janie says. She explains that as long as a client’s primary residence is in Florida, she can also insure their out-of-state residences. Both teams focus heavily on customer service and satisfaction.

“We want people to know we’re there. We’re anxious to help and assist them with their insurance needs however we can,” Kelly says. “And we really enjoy working with all our clients. They’re very appreciative for not just the products but our counsel, and we’re appreciative for them.”

Additionally, Kelly says although the company’s reach spans the

state, the team feels especially at home in The Villages.

“We’re thankful for the wonderful rapport we have with The Villages itself, along with all of our clients based out of The Villages,” Kelly says. “We take pride in that.”

352.751.6622

TheVillagesInsurance.com

Heather Williams

ASSOCIATE ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kelly Burrows

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER/TEAM LEAD

Janie LeBeau

RISK CONSULTANT, PRIVATE RISK MANAGEMENT

Envy

Salon and Esthetics

Morgan Long is impressively ahead of the game.

She graduated Leesburg High School at the age of 17 and one month later, started cosmetology school.

In February 2023, Morgan, now 20, opened her own business—Envy Salon and Esthetics—and is quickly making a name for herself as a hairstylist and blonde specialist.

“I may be young, but I’m very passionate about what I do,” Morgan says, explaining that her salon, which is boho-inspired, has a very homey, cozy, peaceful vibe to it. “It feels good to have people trust me with their hair and I love building bonds with my clients.”

The services Morgan currently offers at Envy include cuts, highlights, extensions, and conditioning treatments. She also does spray tans, facial waxing, and make-up, and can do hair and makeup for weddings or other parties, either at the salon or on location.

The next step is recruiting other beauticians interested in joining her, as she’s looking for hairstylists, and people who do facials, massages, body waxing, Botox, and more.

“I want my salon to be a one-stop shop for everything beauty related,” Morgan says.

Envy Salon and Esthetics

111 E. Lady Lake Blvd., Lady Lake 352.561.8290

Facebook/Instagram: @envysalonandesthetics, @stylesbymorgs

Ellis

Integrative Family Medicine

Gretta Ellis is a natural when it comes to health challenges and that is also her approach to treating patients.

Gretta, owner, and licensed nurse practitioner of Ellis Integrative Family Practice in Tavares, works hard to identify the root cause of illnesses including auto-immune diseases, GI complications, joint pains, skin issues, and more.

“I started my practice to help people improve their overall quality of life by focusing on gut health and improving the immune system. I want to educate my patients for preventative measures, symptom relief, and help reduce prescription medications.”

At her office, Gretta also offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, nutritional IV therapy, weight loss program, hyperbaric oxygen chamber, platelet-rich-plasma (PRP), and aesthetic treatments including Botox, filler, and Harmony XL laser.

Her newest addition to the office is the Harmony XL Pro Laser that allows for highly effective and safe treatments for challenging skin concerns such as facial resurfacing, pigmented lesions, facial tightening, skin rejuvenation, and hair removal.

Gretta states overall wellness is her goal.

1865 Nightingale Ln., Suite B, Tavares

352.508.5418

Gretta@ellisintegrative.com

Gretta Ellis

OWNER/ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSE PRACTITIONER (APRN)

Navigating a career change can be a daunting leap of faith for most. But when the decision comes from a place of both passion and purpose, it starts to look and feel more like an evolution than a change. A little more than a year ago, Jaime Bach made the decision to build upon her Business Management degree and more than 20 years of professional experience — most recently in the planning and zoning department for the City of Mount Dora — and become a Lake County-based Realtor®. Raising two children in the community and her knowledge of the amenities that make Lake so special has paid off, having achieved a sold/ pending volume of nearly $8.5 million in her first full year. Her strategic relationship with Kevco Builders, serving as the exclusive listing agent for Lake County’s #1 custom home builder, as well as her “Luxury Homes” Certification, provide additional value to her customers, particularly those who need the unique assistance both selling

their existing home and building their custom dream home.

Like any good business woman who starts up a professional endeavor, there are lessons to be learned. Jaime bet that buyers and sellers would be drawn to her personal commitment and attention, knowing that it will always be her name, face and reputation that serves as the foundation for all of her real estate and community relationships.

JaimeAndCompany.com

352.459.5272

Dr.

Mariana

de Jongh

Gastroenterology Associates is a medical practice that welcomes patients with gastroenterology conditions such as colon polyps, GERD, Barrett’s, liver disease, ulcer disease, colitis, celiac disease, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, and more.

At their Summerfield/The Villages office, Dr. Mariana de Jongh is one of the physicians who offers procedures including endoscopies, colonoscopies,

hemorrhoid banding and InterStim for bowel incontinence, among others.

“I feel privileged to be able to interact with people on a daily basis and have an impact on their quality of life using a combination of office visits, procedures, and medications,” says Dr. de Jongh, adding that she immediately fell in love with the field and now, with working in The Villages.

“Often, patients will ask me how I ended up in this field. I respond with: it sort of fell in my lap and ended up being

a match made in heaven,” she continues. “It’s the combination of procedures which I truly love doing and being able to help people with things ranging from common problems like heartburn, to helping them navigate a diagnosis of colon cancer and walking with them through the process of healing, feeling better and living their lives to the max.”

Gastroenterology Associates

17345 SE 109th Terrace Rd., Summerfield 352.751.4885

Jenkins Wealth & Retirement Solutions owner, Charlene Jenkins, is a Registered Financial Consultant, Certified Estate Planner, and Life & Annuity Agent licensed in Florida, Ohio, and Wisconsin. She began her estate and financial services career over 25 years ago.

“I’m a faith-based agency and place God first in all things,” Charlene says. She uses a disciplined approach to assist her clients through the wealth accumulation, preservation, distribution, and transfer phases of their lives by offering customized products and strategies.

Since 2012, Charlene has been based in Leesburg, and in 2018 she opened Jenkins Wealth. She calls herself “The traveling agent” because she offers her clients the option of coming to her

office or going to their home as she has clients throughout Florida, including the Villages, where many of her clients reside.

“Part of my passion is educating and helping the younger generation to be financially independent in an unstable world,” Charlene says. She discusses with them Roth IRA’s and other retirement options including annuities. She also stated, "With the uncertainty of Social Security, they need other options that will give them guaranteed income when they retire and that’s where a lifetime income annuity will fill the gap”.

Her motto is “I love annuities and so should you”!

Charlene Jenkins OWNER

Title Agency Kelsey

When Missi Kelsey opened Kelsey Title Agency four years ago, she did so to accomplish two things: following in her father’s footsteps by becoming a businessowner and providing protection for her clients by, “Insuring ownership of the American Dream.”

“Title insurance is so important, because home ownership is one of the largest investments you’ll make in your lifetime,” Missi says.

Growing up in Sumter County, she has seen firsthand the growth and development of the county and surrounding areas. Before opening Kelsey Title, she worked in The Villages for 21 years. She branched out on her own to offer more personalized service.

“We can adapt to any situation, including traveling to the customer for a mobile closing,” Missi says, explaining that although her company is based in Fruitland Park, her service area spans the entire state of Florida.

“We work with realtors, lenders, development companies, for sale by owners, basically anyone who has a real estate closing, and we take a customer centered approach, so anything the customer needs, we will go above and beyond to take care of them,” she says.

10601 US Hwy. 441, Ste. C-4, Leesburg 352.787.7367

LakeUniforms.com

Lake.Uniforms@hotmail.com

Larúe Kay Salon & Boutique

If you haven’t been to downtown Mount Dora, lately, you’re missing out—especially if you haven’t visited Larue Kay Salon & Boutique which just celebrated its oneyear anniversary in March.

The fashion boutique, owned by longtime and very successful local businesswoman/hairdresser Kara Sparks, offers something for everyone.

Kara stocks a wide selection of everyday clothing, workout wear, jeans, faith-based and graphic tees, western wear, jewelry, purses, and other cute and unique accessories for women

and children. Clothing sizes range from XS to 3X.

“It’s more like your everyday wear and anybody, any shape or size, can find something in my shop,” Kara says.

Additionally, Kara says many women love coming into Larue in search of something cute to wear to special events

like showers, weddings, date nights, and more.

She says that’s perfect because the merchandise she carries is fun, comfortable, trendy, affordable and meant to complement everyone’s inner beauty.

“I love being able to help people dress, especially when they leave looking good, and feeling happy, confident and just great about themselves,” Kara says.

352.508.9542

laruekayboutique.com

252-A N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora

Kara Sparks OWNER

Brittany Steverson MANAGER

McNamee

Olson Insurance 352.669.4547

OlsonInsuranceFL.com

As CEO of Olson Insurance for eight years, Erica McNamee’s focus now that her grandfather Terry Olson—the company’s founder and namesake—passed away, is keeping his legacy alive.

With that said, Olson Insurance offers services such as taxes, various insurance options, business set-up, financial investments; and all with the communityminded approach and heart Terry was known for.

“We’re still running the business the same way my grandfather did since the 1970’s, incorporating all the same values he lived by, including customer service, and going above and beyond for people,” Erica says. “We offer them everything they may need in all areas, but if they’re looking for something we don’t offer, we can guide them in the right direction.”

Erica says she is proud to be part of the family business.

“It’s satisfying to see businesses that started with us grow and succeed, especially knowing that we were able to help get them started,” she adds.

Leigh Ann Berry OWNER

SouthState

Bank

Since opening, SouthState Bank has been committed to helping customers.

Whatever you need to be successful, our experienced bankers—including the following women from Lake and Sumter Counties—can offer the right solutions so you can bank the way you want.

“In this day in age, it is nice to work for a stable and diversified bank that puts people first. SouthState values its employees, customers, and the communities it serves. We focus on growth by building relationships, offering cutting edge products and services,

and providing remarkable customer experiences. Not only am I able to offer my business and commercial clients the tools they need to grow their business, but also the peace of mind knowing that what they’ve built is safe with us,” says Lyndsi Johnson, AVP, Commercial Relationship Manager.

“We are constantly seeking to introduce new products and programs to promote homeownership and grow our communities one household at a time!"

“As we bring on team members, we look for quality individuals that will live and act on our core values. My position allows me to support these amazing individuals and watch them excel,” says Brooke Morris, VP, Regional Area Manager. 352.323.9000

903 W. North Blvd., Leesburg southstatebank.com

Amy Chappell, VP, Mortgage Banker adds.

L-R: Amy Chappell, VP, Mortgage Banker; Brooke Morris, VP, Regional Area Manager; Barbara Yaussy, VP, Branch Manager; Lyndsi Johnson, AVP, Commercial Relationship Manager; Maria Gonzalez, VP, Branch Manager

Lindsey Mallory

After years of SPRAY tans and a lifetime of using different tanning products, Lindsey Mallory is out to change the stigma around "bad spray tans", she is the “Go-to girl for all things Sunless” in Central Florida.

She has had a successful multi location mobile spray tanning company going on 5 years now & has a full product line that includes two different shades of mousse, an aerosol mist, and an extender, all of which are long-lasting, easy to use, affordable, and aromatic.

Lindsey also SPRAYs clients in the comfort of their own home via her Luxury

Mobile service, specializing in special events, pageants and everyday life!

“Sunless tanning isn’t one size fits all, we have something for everyone. " Lindsey says. She loves the science behind the spray tans too, adding: “I love to customize them for each individual client.”

sprayonthego.com BUSINESS WOMEN OF Style 2023

sprayedxlindsey@gmail.com

Dawn Bush

Many special ceremonies have taken place at The Barn at Southern Oaks since Dawn Bush first debuted the beautiful wedding and event venue in December 2020.

Since then, the rustic, yet elegant location— situated on 21-acres complete with an outdoor ceremony space, outdoor cocktail area, and an indoor, air-conditioned reception hall—has welcomed new offerings, and all without a price increase since opening its doors.

“We offer a variety of custom packages, from standard to an all-inclusive option (which includes flowers, food, décor, etc.), plus I offer an extra day before the wedding for decorating, set-up, and rehearsals,” Dawn says.

New offerings include a bridal suite which features four designated make-up stations, a living room, kitchenette, and bathroom the bride and her wedding party can use for getting ready. There is also a brand-new catering prep space in the main hall, and a groom room on the horizon.

Karen

Attorney Karen Rodriguez lives by the words: “Fighting today for the rights of your tomorrow.”

In fact, it’s what she does every day out of her firm: The Law Office of Karen Rodriguez, P.A., based in Clermont.

“From the moment a client walks into the office, we’re focused on their future and how that looks,” Karen says. “We work hard to resolve their problem because when a case ends, it’s their future that matters.”

She also does family law and represents clients through divorce, custody, child support, paternity, modifications, injunctions, domestic violence situations, DCF cases, and more.

Karen offers free consultations, flat fee rates, and payment plans, not to mention she speaks Spanish, as does her longtime legal assistant and receptionist.

Law Office of Karen Rodriguez, P.A. 352.404.7881

KarenRodriguezLawFirm.com

Karen, a mom of five, has more than 10 years of experience as a trial attorney. She started out as a prosecutor, and today practices criminal defense.

Karen, a stickler for putting in the work it takes to give her clients the best chance at winning their case, received the 2023 Client Champion Award from Martindale-Hubbell, and the Super Lawyer Award from Thompson Reuters in 2019, 2020, 2021, & 2022.

352.735.1213

TheWhiteOrchidMarket.com

252 N. Donnelly Street, Mount Dora

Alicia Clark and Cheri Lang bonded over mimosas in 2019 when Cheri first came to town looking for a job.

At the time, Alicia’s plant shop—The White Orchid—was located in the Marketplace, but when she moved into her own shop down the street, she and Cheri remained close friends.

Today, they are partners and have transformed The White Orchid

Market into a place both plant and food enthusiasts love.

They offer a wide array of locally sourced tropical house plants, pots, plant accessories, and plant bling; plus everything charcuterie, including boards and gourmet foods.

They also sell ‘to go’ snacks perfect for picnics, gift items such as

fun drinkware, jewelry, and candles, and offer various workshops.

“What we love most about when people come in, is seeing their eyes light up with the way our shop smells, the environment, our products,” Cheri says. “It makes our day.”

Alicia says: “The White Orchid is our happy place, and we want it to be a happy place for all our guests, too.”

Alicia Clark OWNER

Cheri Lang OWNER

After 12 years working in the ER and five in hospice, Colleen Wallace, an Advanced Practice Nurse, set her sights on getting people healthy.

In January 2021 she opened Wallace Health, and since then, has successfully been able to see her goal to realization.

“I saw a lot of people being overmedicated and not getting well, just sicker,” she says, adding that the building her practice occupies today has served people in Umatilla for 50 years.

At Wallace Health, Colleen offers an array of untraditional specialized wellness services— including platelet rich plasma therapy which targets joint/knee pain and anti-aging bio-identical hormone therapy—as well as standard primary and walk-in care.

Wallace Health also provides many aesthetic procedures. The Harmony, XL Pro treats wrinkles, acne, hair, and tattoo removal as well as 64 other clinical indications. The Femi-lift treats bladder incontinence and causes vaginal rejuvenation. Health coaching, medical weight loss, inches lost and firmer, tighter skin using the Cryoskin Body Slimming Machine. Not to mention Botox, Filler, PDO threads and the CO-2 laser that takes 10 years off your face.

“I feel blessed that I am able to take care of people in my community and help them become the best version of themselves.” Colleen says.

Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver

EVENTS. TRAVEL. PEOPLE.

agenda

LOCAL TALENT

Through her Umatillabased quilt shop, Susan Thames helps create a patchwork of precious memories.

Pitcher Perfect

The 22nd Mount Dora Taste and Craft Beer Fest at Sunset Park offers samples from local restaurants and craft beer. In addition, attendees can bid on art pieces and other items in a silent auction.

CELEBRATION TIME

Experience The Villages’ version of Cinco de Mayo, a holiday that celebrates the Mexican army’s May 5, 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. Enjoy food vendors, stilt walkers, and live entertainment from Stella Beat. The celebration lasts from 5 to 9pm.

May 5 / Spanish Springs Town Square

1120 Main St., The Villages

may. ON STAGE

RUN LADIES, RUN!

Attention all women. Summer is almost here, so it’s time to get that beach body in tip-top shape. Here’s your opportunity. The AdventHealth Girlz on Fire Sprint Triathlon and 5K is a Mother’s Day event just for the ladies. The triathlon features a .25-mile swim, an 8-mile bike ride, and a 3.1-mile run.

May 13 / Clermont Waterfront Park 330 3rd St., Clermont / 352.394.1320

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

IN HOT AIR

Melon Patch Players presents “Boeing Boeing,” a play about a man who has fiancées from Italy, Germany, and America. An unexpected schedule change brings all three to Paris at the same time.

May 5-23 / Melon Patch Players 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg / 352.787.3013

EVENT

MOVIES AND STARS

The Clermont Parks and Recreation Department’s “Movie Under the Stars” event at Waterfront Park features Encanto, an animated comedy film produced by Walt Disney Studios.

May 19 / Clermont Waterfront Park 330 3rd St., Clermont / 352.394.3500

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

5/5 @ 7pm

MICHELLE INGRHAM

Ski Beach Bar and Grill, Leesburg

5/5 @ 8pm

BARB PAUGH

JJ’s Lounge and Package, Sorrento

5/6 @ 7pm

SARA EVANS

The Sharon, The Villages

5/6 @ 7pm

DENNIE AND THE JETS

South Lake Elks Lodge #1848, Clermont

5/6 @ 7pm

JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

5/7 @ noon

C.O.D. FLORIDA

(Little) Girl Power

Bay Street Players presents Matilda, the story of a bright and rebellious young girl with magic powers and a deep love for books, living with an uncaring family who often treats her badly.

May 26 - Jun 11 / 109 N. Bay St., Eustis / 352.357.7777

Let us help you get the word out!

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,

Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749

Hurricane Dockside Grill, Tavares

5/12 @ noon

DENNIE AND THE JETS

Edna’s on the Green, Wildwood

5/14 @ 3:30pm

MICHELLE INGRHAM

Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford

5/18 @ 7pm

THE VILLAGES

PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

The Sharon, The Villages

5/19 @ 7pm

THE ORANGE BLOSSOM

OPRY BAND

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

5/20 @ 5 pm

C.O.D. FLORIDA

Hurricane Dockside Grill, Tavares

5/20 @ 7pm

DENNIE AND THE JETS

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, Mount Dora

5/20 @ 7pm

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER

REVIVAL TRIBUTE

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

5/21 @ 1:30pm

MANFREDI ROCKS

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

5/25 @ 5pm

C.O.D. FLORIDA

Hurricane Dockside Grill, Tavares

5/26 @ 7pm

MICHELLE INGRHAM

Ski Beach Bar and Grill, Leesburg

5/26 @ 7pm

DENNIE AND THE JETS

Royal Harbor, Tavares

5/27 @ 4pm

MICHELLE INGRHAM

The Sunny Pint, Wildwood

5/27 @ 7pm

GEORGE TRULLINGER

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

Together with Love

Long-time Friends Created a Shop Where Happiness Thrives.

Alaskan bush, and Judy returned to Michigan following separation from her husband.

Thames and Judy Cudworth, rst and foremost,

friendship. Last, but not least, it is their partnership in Miss Bessie’s Quilt Shop.

That these two women ever crossed paths was nothing less than divine intervention.

originally from

In 1982, the two women met after enrolling their children in a gymnastics program in Aiken, South Carolina, where their families had moved for work. Both were high school teachers. Judy taught deaf students, Susan taught drama and theater.

To say the two “clicked” is an understatement. The women became fast friends, and sewing together became one of their favorite activities. What began with sewing costumes for Susan’s theater classes evolved into quilting—something Judy had done for years.

Their everyday lives were closely intertwined until 1998 when Susan’s husband, James, took a job in the

Being thousands of miles apart didn’t end their friendship; it continued to grow.

“We spent a lot of time on the phone and visited each other in the summers,” recalls Susan.

In 2005 they became family when Susan’s son Donald married Judy’s daughter Amanda.

On June 6, 2007, Susan’s husband was electrocuted while on the job. James not only lost his right hand, but over time required more intensive treatment than was available in that wilderness area. Through Judy’s contacts, they found the care he needed, and he was transferred to the University of Michigan. After 12 years, Susan and

PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

Judy found themselves once again living near each other.

“All along we were quilting together; this was our saving grace,” says Susan. “We even made a quilt for our kids’ wedding.”

In 2018, Donald and Amanda settled in Eustis after he took a job at Lockheed Martin in Ocala.

Then, at the beginning of the pandemic, Judy was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

Unfortunately, Judy wasn’t getting the cancer treatment she needed in Michigan so she and Susan began researching Mo t Cancer Center in Tampa. After all, their married children already lived in Central Florida. Susan’s husband headed down early and Susan helped Judy make the move to Umatilla in April 2020.

True to form, the best friends continued making the most of life.

Two years later, they launched Miss Bessie’s Quilt Shop, named for Judy’s mother, who had taught them both

in the 1990s. The business that focused on their shared passion for quilting opened on April 1, 2022.

“Because we are both retired teachers, our goal was to inspire younger quilters, even people who don’t really know how to sew,” says Susan. “Everything was designed to bring in younger and nonquilters to learn.”

Their unique shop has done that. And more.

The shop, which is divided into four separate areas, o ers traditional fabric and heritage fabric (pre-owned, but never used) already cut into squares, rectangles, strips and triangles. Classes and lessons are held in the workshop, where customers can use embroidery machines, sewing machines, cutters, a quilting machine, and sergers (a sewing machine that trims and encloses the seam allowance or edge of the fabric in a thread casing). There’s even a fabric arts section where people can take di erent craft classes.

The shop was expanded in September 2022 to accommodate extra activities.

Store manager Theresa Paulhamus calls it the “fun shop.” And with good reason.

“Our business plan was to have fun sharing what we know. We have comfortable chairs, so we encourage people to sit, chat, and visit. That’s the social aspect. If you don’t have that, you don’t have quilting!” says Susan. “We ensure that people leave with a beautiful, completed project. Our philosophy is that there are no limitations; just challenges you have to gure out how to solve.”

One customer succinctly summed up the shop’s cozy atmosphere this way: “When I walk in the door, I feel like I’m getting a big hug.”

amazing people we’ve met at the shop, the wonderful weather, and the treatments at Mo tt, Judy said many times that she didn’t even feel like she had cancer,” says Susan. But sadly, she did.

Judy passed on the evening of February 23, 2023, just hours after Susan nished the quilt they’d started together for their grandson Hayden.

After 41 years of friendship, Susan’s and Judy’s love for life, each other, and quilting lives on at the unique shop on Central Avenue.

“When people are here, they’re happy,” says Susan, looking up at Judy’s picture hanging in the window. “Now she’ll be looking down at us and she can be happy too.”

Miss Bessie’s Quilt Shop, 111 N. Central Ave., Umatilla, (352) 771-2653.

Bessie Cudworth

Susan Thames, Theresa Paulhamus, and Susan Grace Thames

WHERE'S MY PIC?!

FOOT STOMPING FUN!

@ WILDWOOD ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL. The Dignity Life Celebration Center in Wildwood hosted the 2023 Blue Jean Ball on January 27. Guests—most blinged-out in their country best—enjoyed dinner, a cash bar, music by the Grass Campers Band, and line dancing galore led by a dance expert. Prizes were awarded for best country-themed attire, and everyone had a great time.

Barbara Amato, Ann Bouliane, Doris aAnn Hooper, Debbie Kassak, Barb Cluff, Cathy Huffran, and Lisa Wright

Katie Mosley

Diane Cassidy, Jim Alderden, and Katie Gordon

Front Row: Rick Love, Bruce Ambler, Dan Kipp, Glen Snider

Back Row: Rick Militello, Joan Militello, Paula Love, John McNall, and Linda Fost

Patty Swanson, Laura Newly, Carrie Lens, and Judy Hoops Paula Love and Katie Gordon

the Grass Campers Band

In a younger face, we typically see the heart-shape or V-shape look of youth. With age, gravity, and loss of skin elasticity, we can observe the stigmata of old age: nasolabial and marionette lines, jowl formation, and a turkey gobbler neck.

We can reestablish that heart-shaped look of youth with Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo. This procedure combines a face and neck lift with laser liposuction along the jawline and neck using Smartlipo technology.

In a younger face, we typically see the heart-shape or V-shape look of youth. With age, gravity, and loss of skin elasticity, we can observe the stigmata of old age: nasolabial and marionette lines, jowl formation, and a turkey gobbler neck.

With today’s modern technology, you can truly look on the outside the way you feel on the inside. Call for your free consultation with Dr. Serra to find out if Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo is right for A New You!

We can reestablish that heart-shaped look of youth with Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo. This procedure combines a face and neck lift with laser liposuction along the jawline and neck using Smartlipo technology. With today’s modern technology, you can truly look on the outside the way you feel on the inside. Call for your free consultation with Dr. Serra to find out if Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo is right for A New You!

ATTA BOY!

@ CLERMONT ≈ PHOTOS: ANTHONY RAO. The Sunshine Book Company hosted the Sarah Tirri Children’s Foundation’s Media Celebration Event on February 3. Clermont Mayor Tim Murry welcomed guests, and University of Illinois Professor Emeritus Timothy Shanahan was the morning’s guest speaker. Sarah Tirri then announced the foundation’s 2022-’23 “Travis the Tent” writing contest winner — 11-year-old Noah Fraguela from Lady Lake — and presented him with $500, a victory cake, trophy, and copy of his newly published book, now available on Amazon. The event was lmed for a public service campaign to promote children’s literacy.

WHERE'S

Ron Dener, Chief Chuck Broadway, Mayor Tim Murray, Noah Fraguela, Beth Merrick, Sarah Tirri, Brook Hill, Lt. Kelly Stone, Tim Shanahan, and Ryan Munns

Noah, Leandra, Matt, and Zachary Fraguela

Ryan Munns and Sarah Tirri

Mayor Tim Murry, Noah Fraguela, and Chief Chuck Broadway

Brook Hill and Lt. Kelly Stone

Noah Fraguela and Sarah Tirri

THE CHERRY ON TOP

@GROVELAND ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL. The sixth annual Cherrylake Farm Races, presented/sponsored by Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, took place on February 4 at Groveland’s Cherrylake Farms. More than 400 participants took part in a 5K, 10K, or duathlon, traversing hilly and tree-lined clay terrain overlooking natural lakes of the Cherry Lake Road course. Kimberly Grogan of Dash Sports served as the race director, LiveTrends Design Group gave out awards, and runners/walkers were treated to food, beer, and refreshments.

Luis Lopez, and Camila Lopez-Torres

The Rodriguez Family

Kyle Baeker, Pranav Simba, Keon Buckley, and Noah Bowlby

Dayton Gentry, Amaris Medina, Santiago Juliao

Max Georgier, and Raj Andrady

Dr. Jennifer L. Cultrera A Teacher & Advocate

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SPECIALIZE IN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY?

I always knew I wanted a career that involved science, and I was particularly interested in marine biology. During college, I became involved in research involving cell structure and changed my focus to human biology. My professor o ered me the opportunity to meet with some of the patients whose cells we were studying in the laboratory. I soon discovered how much I enjoyed interacting with patients and the positive impact I could have in their lives.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN IN MEDICINE?

Medical training is very intense and takes place during a productive time in life when people are selecting a partner or beginning a family. Certain things have changed over the years, and there are more supports in place. Work hour restrictions have helped. Social media has also provided outlets to connect. I participate in a Facebook group speci cally for female medical oncologists and another for doctors who are moms. These have been helpful to me.

FOUR

Leesburg

Dr. Jennifer L. Cultrera is a Board-certi ed medical oncologist and hematologist who provides care to patients at the Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute Brownwood, Leesburg South and Villages Cancer Center. She resides in Lake County with her 3-year-old son, Aiden, and her mom.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR EFFORTS TO ADVOCATE FOR PATIENTS.

After a cancer diagnosis, patients often lose control of many things in their lives — they are suddenly told what they can and cannot do. Knowledge is power. I love to teach and educate my patients to nd their power. Here in The Villages community especially, my patients want to understand every aspect of their cancer and treatment. They take time to research and ask questions, and that is so important.

AS YOU LOOK AHEAD, WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE FUTURE OF CANCER CARE?

Today, for a growing number of cancers, I can order a DNA sequencing test from our Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute in-house Pathology Laboratory. The results come back within one week, and give me valuable insight to recommend a treatment or a clinical trial that will target an exact mutation. With advancements in precision medicine and immunotherapies that harness the body’s own power to ght disease, we are getting closer to making cancer a chronic disease. I marvel at the progress that continues to be made.

Villages

Learn more or schedule a consultation today! www.FLCancer.com/JCultrera

JOYCE AND MICHAEL HUEY Owners of Two Old Hags

We didn’t choose downtown Leesburg. Instead, Leesburg chose us and today, we can’t think of anywhere else we’d rather be.

healthy living

MIND. BODY. SPIRIT.

HEALTHY INSPIRATION

Rocky DeStefano, who owns Chick-fil-A franchises in Clermont, sells chicken with a side of stewardship and compassion.

Chick-fi l-Angel

Clermont businessman Rocky DeStefano

hick- l-A’s corporate purpose statement continues to touch and de ne the leadership style of Rocky DeStefano nearly 30 years after he opened his rst store. It reads:

“I was always drawn to that because it was nothing about chicken, nothing about pro t, just being a good steward and being a good in uence,” says Rocky, explaining that the statement is based on Chick- l-A Founder S. Truett Cathy’s principles. “Our mission is to make the story better for our customers, but also

About three years ago, when faced with an unexpected opportunity, Rocky, a devout Christian, did not hesitate to put his money where that mission is.

One of his team leaders noticed that a fellow leader—a talented, hard worker who seemingly had everything by way of a good home life—began having panic attacks at work. One day, he reached his breaking point and was suggesting he might hurt himself.

When Rocky learned that the young man did not feel con dent going to his parents about his situation and could not a ord counseling, Rocky got wheels rolling so fast that the boy was able to see a counselor that night – and for weeks after, and all on Chick- l-A’s dime.

“I was very familiar and comfortable with the situation because in the past, we had to get counseling for my daughters. I also understand a lot of kids are afraid to approach parents about

After three months of counseling, the troubled boy made a complete turn-around, found strategies for dealing with his anxiety issues, and is now looking to franchise his own store.

“To glorify God by being a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to us. To have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-fil-A.”

making a difference by helping employees knock out problems.

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

Rocky DeStefano

Additionally, his story inspired an unprecedented company program.

“The outcome was such a success that other employees started hearing about it and began approaching us asking for help, too,” Rocky says. “So, I thought, ‘Ok, this is happening. How do we make it a process?’”

Today, if any employee of Rocky’s two Clermont Chick- l-A stores asks for help, they’re covered, all judgment aside. Two counselors—one male, one female—are part of his extended sta . The one stipulation is that minors’ parents are brought into the loop.

Cesar Perez, a licensed marriage and family therapist and Church at South Lake pastor, says he’s humbled to be part of the program.

“I think it’s a beautiful thing Rocky and his team are doing by embracing the subject of mental health in the workplace and being intentional about making a di erence for their employees,” Cesar says.

According to Rocky, 60 to 70 of his more than 200 team members have sought help in the three years since he implemented free counseling. And although he gets billed, he’s not privy to details.

One of the employees who con ded to Rocky broke free from a longtime eating disorder. Another was able to convince his family to attend longoverdue family counseling sessions.

Cesar says some of those he’s counseled struggled with transitioning between teenage and adulthood, anxiety, depression, and family issues.

No matter the reason, Cesar feels the program has removed three of the biggest obstacles people face when considering counseling: the taboo or stigma of getting professional help, who to see, and how to pay.

“I’m a huge believer in counseling. People get physicals every year, so I kind of feel like every year, we need to get mental check-ups too,” Rocky says.

Also, he feels that now more than ever—with all that’s happened in the last three years, including COVID, the shutdowns, the war on Ukraine, the high cost of living, and more— anxiety and stress issues are on the rise. And with technology at our ngertips, all the good, bad and ugly of the world stares people straight in the face 24/7.

“I think that anxiety we’re feeling is real and we could all stand to learn how to better handle it,” Rocky says.

With that said, the legwork associated with getting counseling when already anxious, can be daunting.

“I feel we have people take us up on what we’re o ering because it’s easy in a moment where they need it to be easy, because they’re feeling overwhelmed with life,” says Rocky,

adding that the program brings him a sense of relief.

“I’d like to tell you that having started this program makes me feel good, but what it really makes me feel is relieved. No matter how much I want to help, I’m not equipped as a counselor, and neither are other leaders, so having people who are there for them makes me feel good.”

Rocky would like to see other companies take similar approaches with their employees, but completely understands it may not be feasible, considering that counseling has become one of his greatest expenses each month.

Still, other Chick- l-A franchisees have heard about the program and contacted him.

“They’re saying, ‘Hey, I’ve heard about what you’re doing. How are you setting it up?’ and I’m kind of giving them a rough structure, so it’s spreading,” Rocky says. “I know I’m doing the right thing by doing this. And I know it’s the right moment in time where everyone’s feeling just a little bit o .

“Counseling is another service we’re blessed we can o er, so when we say, ‘We really care about you,’ we’re saying we care about the whole person.”

“I think it’s a beautiful thing Rocky and his team are doing by embracing the subject of mental health in the workplace and being intentional about making a difference for their employees.”

— CESAR PEREZ

ROXANNE BROWN

Miracle weight loss drug

Or dangerous new fad

STORY: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, MD, FACS

recently became aware of a new darling in the never-ending search for a magic bullet to weight loss. Semiglutide (brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) is an oral or injectable drug in a class of drugs called glucagon-like protein 1 (GLP-1) receptor antagonists used to treat type II diabetes, the type usually associated with being overweight or obese.

In simple terms, two hormones control blood sugar levels – glucagon and insulin. Glucagon raises blood sugar, and insulin lowers it. GLP-1 receptor antagonists like Ozempic work to lower blood sugar. They also have a large number of other potential and known actions. They may be neuroprotective (reducing inflammation of nerves), may lower blood pressure, and may reduce liver inflammation. One of their most interesting effects is on brown fat, which makes up a small percentage of the fat in your body (as opposed to white fat) but is more metabolically active. Brown fat helps regulate body temperature and stabilizes blood sugar. Ozempic activates brown fat.

Approved by the FDA in December 2017 for treatment of type II diabetes, Ozempic was subsequently noted to suppress appetite and reduce weight in users. Recently, its popularity has exploded amid speculation about newly thin celebrities and

influencers who seem to have lost weight almost overnight. Although only FDA-approved for diabetes and available only by prescription, off-label use of Ozempic has skyrocketed for weight loss. And it is easily obtained by anyone who wants it and can afford the hefty price tag of around $1,000 for a multi-dose pen that lasts one month.

Ozempic is offered at medical spas that have a “medical director” who is a physician or dentist who can prescribe medications. Finding prescribers for a med spa is easy. Many are retired physicians looking for the extra income or just something to do. Most have no direct involvement with the spa clients. Often, no office visit is required for an Ozempic script.

In 24 states, nurse practitioners (NP) also have full and unrestricted prescribing privileges. Florida is a restricted privilege state and NPs must be under supervision of a physician.

The demand for Ozempic is understandable. No one disputes that we’re dealing with an obesity epidemic. Forty percent of the U.S. population is obese (a body mass index of 30 or above**). What does that look like? This: a 5’ 6” woman weighing more than 186 lbs. and/or a 5’ 11” man weighing more than 215 lbs. Both are obese. Thirty-eight percent of the U.S. population is overweight, defined as a body mass index of 26 or more. One of the most worrisome aspects of the obesity

BODY

40% OF THE U.S. POPULATION IS OBESE (BMI of 30 or greater)

38% OF THE U.S. POPULATION IS OVERWEIGHT (BMI of 26 or greater)

30% IS THE HEALTHY RATIO BETWEEN FAT AND LEAN BODY MASS IN WOMEN

25% IS THE HEALTHY RATIO BETWEEN FAT AND LEAN BODY MASS IN MEN

25% OF HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS IS MADE UP OF LEAN BODY MASS

20% OF CHILDREN AGE 2-19 ARE OBESE $170 BIL IS THE AMOUNT U.S. HEALTHCARE SPENDING IS ESTIMATED TO INCREASE ANNUALLY DUE TO OBESITY

epidemic is that 20 percent of children age 2-19 are obese (defined as weighing at or more than 95 percent of their peers). And childhood obesity sets a person up for a lifetime of battling their weight.

Why does weight matter? Despite the social and cultural controversy regarding body positivity and fat-shaming, it is a simple medical fact that there are serious health consequences to being overweight . . . and these increase greatly with obesity. High blood pressure, type II diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver disease, and osteoarthritis are related to weight. Cancers, such as breast and colon cancer, are more common in those with unhealthy weight.

And obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for serious illness due to COVID-19 and other infectious illnesses. Also, being overweight or obese increases the risk of complications from surgery.

In the U.S. today, it’s difficult to calculate, much less comprehend, the health costs of being overweight or obese and how much money is spent on treatment, as well as medical problems associated with carrying excess weight. In 2013, $170 billion dollars was spent treating obesity and related problems, or 16 percent of health care dollars. Combined with an aging population and poor lifestyle habits, it is no exaggeration to state that health care costs pose an existential threat to the future of the U.S. economy. If that threat materializes, obesity will lead the charge.

Into this unsustainable situation enters Ozempic, an injectable medication anyone can learn to self-administer once a week. Voila! Pounds drop off, seemingly without effort. No diet or exercise required. What could be simpler?

Medicine and the human body are never simple and most efforts to offer simple solutions to complex problems, such as obesity, almost always are bound to fail.

All weight loss is not equal. Anyone can lose weight simply by not eating. You do not see obese people in countries where the population is starving. Starvation causes loss of fat. Starvation also causes lean body mass, which is everything that is not fat –primarily muscle, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Loss of lean mass can be unhealthy in several ways.

active, i.e. burns more calories, and helps control weight. It fights insulin resistance, a hallmark of type II diabetes. It keeps bones strong, which is especially important in post-menopausal women, many who have reduced bone strength. It makes us more physically capable, giving us strength to avoid falls and to get up when we do fall (emergency rooms regularly see elderly patients who have fallen and do not have the strength to get up.)

The goal of healthy weight loss is not merely to lose fat. The goal should be to improve body composition – the ratio between fat and lean body mass. A healthy ratio of fat to lean body mass is around 30 percent or less in adult women, and 25 percent or less in adult men.

In healthy weight loss, lean body mass makes up about 25 percent of the lost weight. This can be reduced by eating more protein and exercising, especially weight and resistance training, both which build muscle.

In studies of Ozempic, the percentage of lean body mass lost to fat is 40 percent. This can become significant in older, obese individuals who already have less lean body mass than ideal. It can also become an issue in people who are not truly overweight or obese but are using Ozempic in hopes of achieving some ideal weight goal.

In addition to the unacceptably high ratio of lean body mass loss, Ozempic use has other problems. First, some people experience side effects of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The specter of cancer, e.g. thyroid cancer, has been raised in some early studies on rats. Finally, most people report putting the weight back on after discontinuing the shots. And the high cost means that few people will stay on Ozempic for very long.

I doubt Ozempic will supplant tried and true ways of losing weight – a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a generally healthy lifestyle. I predict that sometime in the not-too-distant future we will be asking, “Whatever happened to Ozempic?”

OZEMPIC FACTS

40% OF LEAN BODY MASS IS LOST TO FAT WITH OZEMPIC $1,000 FOR A MULTI-DOSE PEN THAT LASTS ONE MONTH

Top 5 Newmar Dealer

menu

FORK ON THE ROAD

The Back Porch Pizza Bar creates whole-grain flair with these wonderful garlic knots.

FOOD. DRINKS. REVIEWS.

Historic TASTE

The Rose Plantation boasts early 1900’s dining experience with modern faire.

estled in the heart of Fruitland Park lies the charming, historic Rose Plantation, a stunning property that has been a labor of love for a couple who have worked tirelessly to preserve its beauty and heritage.

Owners David Andrews and his wife Diana initially became involved with the property in 2015 when they were approached by friends John and Judy Gibson who had an interest in developing an abandoned property in need of substantial renovation into a ne dining restaurant.

"Eventually our friends retired, and we got more involved,” Dave says. “When COVID came along, we needed to focus even more on the property. Even now, there are still projects in the works, like adding an upstairs dining area.”

Originally from Maine, Dave is an Air Force veteran who moved around frequently, living in six di erent locations

STORY: CINDY PETERSON ≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON AND NICOLE HAMEL

David Andrews

A History of Elegance

The Rose Plantation’s rich history dates back to the pre-Civil War era when it was primarily used for citrus groves. In 1892, Mr. and Mrs. W.T. Dean from Holyoke, Massachusetts purchased a home on Crystal Lake. In 1906, William and Minnie Dwight, publishers of the Holyoke Transcript and other newspapers, started wintering in Fruitland Park. In 1915, the Dwights purchased Pine Eden, the current property, which was larger at the time, and hired a Massachusetts architect to design and build a home. Construction was completed in 1917. Sta housing was constructed on the north side of the property, and a kitchen was built on the south side. The Dwights hosted garden parties, masquerades, cotillions, and tennis tournaments.

In 1930, three years after Fruitland Park incorporated, William Dwight died. Minnie became a local philanthropist and sponsored an annual coming-out party for Leesburg High senior class girls. In 1931, Fruitland Park approved the construction of Rose Avenue, which would later give the property its name.

In 1957, Minnie died at age 84, and Pine Eden was purchased by Judge PB Howell and his wife Winifred. Their daughter Peggy Howell was married on the property in 1969. After several years, Pine Eden was purchased by Chief Master Sergeant William Havron and his wife Rita for their four children and grandparents.

Ray and Monica Matiucci later bought the property and donated the southwest portion of the land to Fruitland Park for a city park. In 1996, John and Mary Baker purchased the property and renovated the butler's pantry, preserving the 100-year-old hardwood oors, and adding a circular drive with a formal entrance at the rear

In 2015, John and Judy Gibson obtained the property and restored it to its former glory. They added a commercial kitchen and a rose garden, and renamed the gem The

In 2016, The Rose Plantation Restaurant opened for elegant casual dining under the ownership of David and Diana Andrews and John and Judy Gibson. After the Gibsons retired, the Andrews expanded the kitchen and added dining gazebos.

In 2022, The Rose Plantation was declared a Commemorative Site of Historical Value, cementing its place in Fruitland Park's

A Rich Dining Experience

Walking into the grand living room, it's clear that this magni cent house was built for extravagant garden parties, high teas, and masquerades. And Dave is committed to preserving the dining experience that once thrived in this historic property. The Andrews are not just using The Rose Plantation as a historical site, but are striving to retain the ambiance of that era. From the music, to the way food is served, the dining experience is designed to be consistent with the charming setting.

The menu features seasonal items. As a general rule, dishes are heavier during the winter and lighter in the summer. The chef is always looking for ways to introduce new things while staying true to the spirit of the historic house.

For lunch, expect a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, appetizers, and quiches. Popular sandwiches include the blueberry grilled cheese, chunky chicken salad sandwich, cranberry turkey melt, braised beef grilled cheese, prime rib, roasted veggie wrap or the 8-ounce wagyu burger. Other great options include stu ed artichoke, pasta purses, shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, quiche Lorraine, lobster bisque, and walnut berry salad. Dinner entrees include grilled vegetable risotto, Tuscan shrimp pasta, RP marinated chicken, barramundi, homestyle pot roast, pork chops, duck breast, rack of lamb, black Angus let,

PORK CHOP BRINE

INGREDIENTS :

8 cups water

1/2 cup salt

4 tbs. brown sugar

4 tbs. apple cider vinegar

6 cloves garlic smashed

6 sprigs rosemary

DIRECTIONS:

Whisk ingredients together. Marinate pork chop in brine for five hours.

CHERRY GASTRIQUE

INGREDIENTS :

4 cups sugar

PORK CHOP DINNER

Components:

1 marinated and cooked pork chop

Pork chop brine

Apple cider buerre-blanc for topping

Cherry gastrique for plating

Ginger squash puree for garnish

Mashed potatoes of choice

Maple glazed parsnips

PLATE IT!

Begin by spreading cherry gastrique in a circular pattern on the bottom of the plate. Next, add a few dabbles of ginger square puree to the outside of the gastrique. Place a spoonful of mashed potatoes in the middle of your gastrique circle. your perfectly cooked pork chop on top of the mashed potatoes and top with a spoonful of the apple cider buerre-blanc. Serve with maple glazed parsnips on the side.

2 cups water

1 cup cherry juice

1 cup white vinegar

2 cups cherries

DIRECTIONS:

APPLE CIDER BUERRE-BLANC

INGREDIENTS :

1 shallots

1 bay leaf

1 clove garlic

1 cup apple cider

2 tbs. cream

3 lbs. butter

DIRECTIONS:

Add shallots, bay leaf, garlic and

MAPLE GLAZED PARSNIPS

INGREDIENTS :

1/4 cup bourbon

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 tbs. butter

Chopped parsnips

DIRECTIONS:

Combine bourbon, maple syrup and butter in a pan on medium heat. parsnips and sauté for about 15 minutes, or until tender.

GINGER SQUASH PUREE

INGREDIENTS

3 cups cooked carrot and squash

1 tbs. grated ginger

2 tbs. brown sugar

1 tbs. butter

1 tbs. cream

Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Cook carrots and squash thoroughly.

Add to blender with ginger, sugar, butter, cream, salt and pepper.

TIPS

Choose your favorite mashed potato recipe to go with this dinner. Jeff likes a simple Yukon gold potato with cream, salt and pepper.

After marinating your pork chop, season it with Montreal seasoning and cook to an internal temperature of 145 degrees for 15 seconds.

Each component adds to the overall flavor of the dish. The ginger squash puree acts as a nice palate cleanser between bites.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Je Scarano is a self-taught executive chef with a passion for cooking and a desire to make people happy through his food. He started taking cooking seriously around six years ago and began working under great chefs to sharpen his skills.

Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Je ’s goal is to produce world-class food that features numerous classical dishes with twists and spins. He came to work at The Rose Plantation in 2018 and became executive chef in 2021.

One of his latest creations is a re-grilled pork chop with a ve-hour brine. This dish is designed for fall and features parsnips, cherry apples and a cherry sweet and sour sauce that ties everything together. “I want people to feel the seasons through my food and to experience the holidays,” he says.

Je takes great pride in using high-quality meats and breaking them down himself. His seafood dishes are also becoming increasingly popular, and he plans to incorporate more options – such as the popular Tuscan shrimp pasta – into the restaurant's o erings in the future.

“I believe in taking my time and making each plate count,” Je says. “I want people to not just eat, but to dine and experience good quality ingredients and fun techniques.”

Je recently became a father, and this new addition to his family has become his driving force to produce excellent food that makes people happy. Je ’s passion and dedication to his craft are evident in every dish he creates.

INFO

THE ROSE PLANTATION

200 Rose Ave., Fruitland Park www.theroseplantation.com

Lunch: Tues.–Fri. 11am–2pm

Dinner: Tues.–Sat. 4:30pm–8pm

Reservations encouraged 352.805.4340

Hey, readers! Do you have favorite recipes or know a chef we should profile?

Comment on this article or send story ideas to editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

CINDY PETERSON

Pizza Rising

Back Porch Pizza Bar offers high-end tastes in casual-hip alfresco setting that feels like home.

he Back Porch Pizza Bar opened in Mount Dora about 15 months ago, and if the crowds that frequent the venue are representative of greatness, there is no need for further explanation.

But proud General Manager Rachel Jacobson

says with a genuine smile on her face. “It’s really important to us for everyone to feel that this is like their back porch where they are dining with family and creating memories.”

Back Porch Pizza customers receive high-end service, gourmet food and craft cocktails in a casual porch-like and fun environment, Rachel adds.

“We’ve got that back porch vibe and we have received so much love, so

That vibe is based on history. The unique establishment in the heart of downtown Mount Dora was the original carriage house of a historic 1919 bungalow that housed horses before being transformed into a garage, and later, a French Restaurant. Today, the historic home, still intact next door, houses the wellloved Pisces Rising Restaurant. And guess what? Both places (plus Pisces Rising Catering) are owned by

“After the French restaurant closed, this building sat vacant for quite a few years. Joshua really wanted to do something to positively impact our community, so he decided to open another restaurant that he would enjoy going to. And that’s how the Back Porch started,” says Rachel, who was involved with conceptualizing the new restaurant

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

NOTORIOUS F.I.G.

KNOT YOUR AVERAGE DOUGH

venture after doing Pisces Rising’s marketing for years.

“We wanted something that would complement Pisces Rising’s upscale vibes, but that was di erent enough to stand on its own. We would consider ourselves to be smart casual dining, meaning that we serve high-end food in a casual atmosphere,” Rachel says.

“We also o er live entertainment out on the porch on Monday, Thursday and Sunday nights.”

Nicole Hamel and I were ‘wowed’ during a recent visit to the Back Porch Pizza Bar. Literally. The word ‘wow’ came out of my mouth when I walked up to the restaurant. That’s how inviting it felt.

IF

We were greeted by Rachel, and her upbeat personality immediately put us at ease. Then we looked at the menu lled with small bites, stone- red pizza and salad selections and I thought, ‘How in the world will we decide what to order?’

Following the suggestions of Rachel and Chef Caitlyn “Cait” Jennings, we started with the “Beet & Goat,” a salad featuring roasted red beets and goat cheese, and “Nacho Problem,” consisting of diced Ahi tuna, red onion, tomato, cucumbers, and mango, tossed in sweet poke sauce served over wonton chips and topped with togarashi, seaweed salad, wasabi oil, sambal aioli and sesame seeds.”

WHEW! I was unsure of some of the ingredients, and may have even winced at the thought of eating raw tuna, but everything on those wonton chips were delectable together.

We also learned of a menu hack for sliders made up of the “Knot Your Average Dough” garlic knots and meatballs o a secret “baronly” menu. What a fun and tasty combination it was!

Next, we sampled the “Notorious F.I.G.” pizza, which was topped with black mission g jam, goat cheese, baby arugula, prosciutto, and parmesan, drizzled with balsamic reduction, and topped with shaved parmesan. Talk about unique. But again, also delicious!

Lastly, and after a couple of top-notch signature cocktails, we tasted what was perhaps one of the most awesome desserts ever—the “Hella Nutella Dessert Pizza.” It was a s’mores knock-o of sorts made with homemade pizza dough topped with Nutella spread, Graham cracker crumbles, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup.

Nicole’s immediate reaction: “I’ve never tasted anything like this!”

All in all, we were completely taken with the restaurant, but also greatly impressed with Rachel and Chef Cait. They are young yet extremely professional, and their passion for customer service is evident.

In fact, Cait, who grew up in New Jersey with her Italian family, came to Florida three years ago after they purchased a pizza restaurant, which is how her chef journey – pizza being her expertise – started. “All I can say is that pizza is an art. You really can do anything you want with it and I truly enjoy creating mouth-watering masterpieces,” Cait says. “It makes me feel great that everyone is loving them.”

237 W. 4th Ave., Suite One, Mount Dora 352.729.2654

info@backporchpizzabar.com

www.backporchpizzabar.com

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 4-9pm, Friday 4-10pm Saturday noon-10pm Sunday 2-8pm, closed Tuesday

Follow Back Porch Pizza Bar on Instagram at: @backporchpizzabar

Dine-in and takeout available. Live music on select nights.

“We’ve got that back porch vibe and we have received so much love, so much feedback from our community since opening. We couldn’t be more grateful.”

—RACHEL JACOBSON

ROXANNE BROWN

HELLA NUTELLA DESSERT PIZZA

HOPPILY EVER AFTER

love beer. From Denver to Dublin, Bangkok to Belgium, I’ve sampled hoppy suds all over the world. And I can’t get enough.

When I discovered Bully Brewing in Leesburg, I was thrilled. Not only was the beer on par with many of the award-winners I love, I was pleasantly surprised that the master brewer is a 29-year-old female.

Leesburg native Falisha Gonzalez is one of a handful of female master brewers in the world. Thankfully their numbers are growing.

The backstory is a family a air.

“My dad was a home brewer and since we all work together, it made sense to start a commercial enterprise.”

The Gonzalez family actually ran a business – Lakeside Electrical Services – and had some space on the industrial property. Falisha told her dad Ryan and stepmom Shannon about an intriguing program at Daytona State College.

“One day we had a job in Daytona, and I discovered a brewing program in Beverage, Science and Hospitality. I jumped at the chance to learn something new that might add to our love of beer and working together.”

What is more impressive is that they became commercial brewers during COVID-19, while Falisha stayed on working as an estimator for the company.

Together, they designed everything needed for Bully Brewing themselves, including the keg system. They also installed kettles and used electrical spools for tables.

Falisha came up with the recipes for the beers, which include Super Grumpy IPA, Weezy’s Cream Ale, Red Nose Red, Bully Blonde, Pawfect Porter, and Barley’s Brown.

The inspiration for the name of the brewery also came from another member of the family, their beloved pit bull Dixie. “Dixie was the face of our home-brew bottles, and pit-bull adoptions is a cause close to our heart.”

Ryan says having a great product is important, especially as they grow to potential distribution, but they discovered having a place for friends and neighbors to gather is crucial to their survival.

“I realized the beer is good, but people come to see us. When we weren’t there as much, business dropped. It makes a di erence each night when we are behind the bar.”

STORY: GINA HORAN ≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

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

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 2586 W. CR 48

352.568.7000

Darrell’s Diner

2237 W. CR 48

352.444.2318

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

Oakwood Smokehouse & Grill

230 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.394.0036

Robata Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688

Sarah’s Greek Cuisine & More

16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd., Ste. 305 352.404.8031

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 2824 S. Bay St. 352.357.0022

The Oyster Tro 936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939

Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. 352.589.9001

FRUITLAND PARK

NY Deli N Diner 3325 U.S. Hwy. 441

352.365.0051

Rae Rae’s Restaurant 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441

352.323.1595

Stavro’s 3223 U.S. Hwy. 441

352.315.0028

GROVELAND

Red Wing Restaurant 12500 S. SR 33

352.429.2997

Barrels & Boards

7965 SR 50 A500

352.557.5007

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS

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

LADY LAKE

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 6538 Lake Griffin Rd.

352.753.7000

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

Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant

13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630

LEESBURG

Brooklyn’s Pizzeria 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.728.2020

Fire Rock Pizza 712 W. Main St., Ste. 5 352.605.6123

Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia St. 352.474.2739

Ichiban Bu et 10301 Hwy. 441 352.728.6669

Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442

Donut King 708 S. 14th St. 352.805.4888

Mammoth Oak Brewing Company 1107 W. North Blvd. 352.326.0100

Mystic Ice Cream 314 W. Main St. 352.812.1366

Naples Italian Restaurant 1107 W. North Blvd. 352.323.1616

Oakwood Smokehouse & Grill 2775 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.435.4633

El Ranchito Mexican Cuban Restaurant 911 W. North Blvd. 352.460.0123

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 U.S. Hwy. 27 352.319.8093

Roberto’s Ristorante and Pizzeria

Admit it. Every now and then, a craving for delicious Italian food hits you like a lightning bolt. Roberto’s Ristorante and Pizzeria is a wonderful place to fulfill that craving. Located in The Villages, this restaurant serves up delicious cuisine such as lasagna alla napoletana, a meatball parmesan sandwich, spaghetti carbonara, linguini calamari, shrimp parmesan, and stuffed chicken marsala. The menu also features a variety of pizzas, soups, and salads. Simply put, Roberto’s is an excellent way to satisfy your Italian taste buds!

San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant 1337 S. 14th St. 352.805.4174

The Sipping Garden and Bistro 605 W. Magnolia St. 352.460.0716

Wolfy’s 918 N. 14th St. 352.787.6777

MOUNT DORA

Barnwood Country Kitchen & Smokehouse 3725 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 352.630.4903

Fiesta Grande 421 N. Baker St.

352.385.3540

The Brick & Barrel Public House 209 W. Main St. 352.431.3069

The Co ee Snob 1101 W. North Blvd. 352.460.4570

The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd. 352.805.4250

Magical Meat Boutique 322 N. Alexander St. 352.729.6911

Vincent’s Italian Restaurant 5914 Orange Blossom Trl. 352.735.4578

OXFORD Pho Saigon 11707 N. U.S. Hwy. 301 352.492.9423 TAVARES

TAVARES

Bella Nona Pizzeria 280 Silverado St. 352.508.9370

BTW (Burgers, Tacos & Wa es) 115 E. Main St. 352.508.9287

Fish Camp Lake Eustis 901 Lake Shore Blvd. 352.742.4400

Hurricane Dockside Grill 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd. 352.508.5137

Puddle Jumpers 111 W. Ruby St. 352.508.5862

Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill 118 W. Ruby St. 352.508.5783

THE VILLAGES

Cody’s Roadhouse Brownwood 3731 Meggison Rd. 352.430.2926

Cody’s Roadhouse Lake Sumter Landing 1041 Lake Shore Dr. 352.259.8500

Giovanni’s 3439 Wedgewood Ln. 352.751.6674

Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream 1001 Lake Shore Dr. 352.751.0261

Legacy Restaurant 17135 Buena Vista Blvd. 352.753.1475

Marco’s Pizza 5806 Seven Mile Dr., Ste. 101 352.571.2400

NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln. 352.750.1994

Peachwave 249 Colony Blvd. 352.750.2238

Peterbrooke Chocolatier 1087 Canal St. 352.391.5877

RJ Gator’s Florida Sea Grill & Bar 1015 Lake Shore Dr., #1693 352.751.6935

Roberto’s Ristorante Pizzeria 2468 Burnsed Blvd. 352.626.1059

Sakura 265 Colony Blvd. 352.205.7393

Too Jays Brownwood 2835 Brownwood Blvd. 352.350.2122

Too Jays Lake Sumter Landing 1129 Canal St. 352.430.0410

VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887

UMATILLA

The Mason Jar 37534 SR 19 352.589.2535

2468 Burnsed Blvd. Wildwood / 352.626.1059 / Robertosvillages.com

GOOD GRUBTHISEDITOR'SMONTH'S PICK

Brooklyn’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant

27405 U.S. HWY 27, LEESBURG | 352.728.2020 &

MYBROOKLYNPIZZERIA.COM

352.365.9004

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.

Mon, Wed & Thu 11:00am – 8:00pm

Closed Tuesdays

Friday 11:00am – 9:00pm

Saturday 12:00pm – 9:00pm

Sunday 12:00pm – 7:00pm

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 – 9:00pm

Sunday

11:30am – 6:00pm

La Palma Mexican Grill

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.

BWWAAAK!

It’s five o’clock somewhere!

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.

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant

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.

Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

Lunch Specials

11:00am – 3:00pm

Margarita

Mondays! Enjoy $5 margaritas all day every Monday.

Subway

SUBWAY.COM

LADY LAKE | 208 W. GUAVA ST. | 352.750.4929

EUSTIS | 469 PLAZA DR. | 352.357.7827

MOUNT DORA | 18870 U.S. HWY. 441 | 352.735.4376

LEESBURG | 2013 CITRUS BLVD. | 352.787.6442

10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 4 | 352.326.3234

27405 U.S. HWY. 27, SUITE 4 | 352.314.8847

THE VILLAGES | 1580 BELLA CRUZ DRIVE | 352.750.9600

8796 S.E. 165TH MULBERRY LANE | 352.750.9991

1070 LAKE SUMTER LANDING DRIVE | 352.205.8535

349 COLONY BLVD. | 352.391.1657

WILDWOOD | 480 W. GULF TO ALANTIC HWY. | 352.748.8800

The Rose Plantation

200 ROSE AVE, FRUITLAND PARK | 352.805.4340

THEROSEPLANTATION.COM

Enjoy an early 20th Century dining experience at The Rose Plantation, located in a home built in 1917. This charming and delightful restaurant on Fountain Lake serves up outstanding dishes with a side of elegant ambiance, starting with the glass-enclosed garden room and veranda, eclectic china, live piano, fine silverware, linen tablecloths, and the rose garden out front. The chefs are given creative freedom to make memorable dishes such as rack of lamb with bourbon berry glaze and cherry gastrique, delicate sacchettini pasta filled with three types of cheese in a brandy cream sauce, colossal crab cakes, and crab stuffed angeloni with parsnip puree and roasted red pepper cream sauce. All dishes are upscale in both quality and presentation. Customers can also choose from 140 varietals of wine. The restaurant, which seats 128 guests, includes private dining rooms for parties of 2 to 50.

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

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.

Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food.

Lunch: Tue – Fri 11:00am – 2:00pm

Dinner: Tue – Sat 4:30pm – 8:00pm

Reservations

Encouraged

Mon – Sun 8:00am – 8:00pm

No Matter How Big or Small

We Cater it All!

And, We Deliver!

800-GO4-DELI

Who knew?

STORY:

f only I could travel back in time to tell younger me to keep all my toys and other collectibles, as well as those I bought for my kids when they were little. I’d be happier — and possibly richer— today. But sadly I can’t, which means whoever ended up with my old Cabbage Patch, Strawberry Shortcake, and Troll dolls, my Garbage Pail Kids, Grease, and Star Wars trading cards, all of my Star Wars original gurines (which I probably had most of), my R2-D2 and C-3PO lunch box and Trapper Keepers, my Care Bear stu ed animals, my daughter’s old Pokémon cards, her Furby, her My Little Ponies, my son and younger daughters’ Tickle Me Elmo and Disney VHS tapes, and my many, many vinyl records, I hope they served you well!

It’s a sore subject in my head, especially when I come across articles detailing the worth of some of those items . . . or when I visit a record store today to buy used albums I previously owned (and bought new for much less decades ago). Insert sobbing emoji here!

Anyway, I still have the memories to hold near and dear, right? Yeah whatever, those memories only carry sentimental value.

Speaking of which, I clearly remember my mom telling me how some woman literally tried grabbing the yellow “Cheer Bear” Care Bear out of her hands as she was putting it into her cart while Christmas shopping one year, and how she had to wait in a long line for Cabbage Patch dolls for my sister and I.

I can relate. When my now 31-year-old daughter was little, all she wanted one Christmas was a Furby. They were sold out in stores before I could get my hands on one,

but I did nd a woman with one. She wasn’t exactly in the Christmas spirit though, so I ended up buying it (with my dad’s help) for $300. Not only that, I didn’t even get a “Thanks, mom” because the coveted gift was technically from Santa. Even worse, the Furby talked by itself one day shortly after, and my daughter, then afraid, wanted nothing to do with it, so out it went!

As for vintage vinyl, I am glad to see the comeback, and that younger and older generations of people are bonding as they look for albums by all the awesome classic artists and bands, plus current ones too.

I also feel that same excitement I did as younger me who could not wait to get home, take the record out and play it for the rst time, that is, until I get to the register and hear the total price!

The lesson here? If you think it could be valuable one day, keep it! I can only wish I would have.

Looking back, I really regret not being waaay more of a pack rat.

ROXANNE BROWN

COMMUNITY HEADLINES HAPPENINGS

NEWSMAKERS EVENTS HONORS

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Hosted by: Marc Robertz-Schwartz

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