Style Magazine, April 2022

APR'22

L AKE & SUMTER

Specia advertisiln feature: g

ASK THE

HEALTH EXPERT pg. 35

AL SO

MAKING PERFECT SCENTS Child safety kits help officers sniff out missing children.

COOL BEANS Nautilus Coffee Co. brews up some delicious drinks.

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE Striking a balance between mind, body, and spirit.

Wildwood couple share the joys and struggles of raising autistic twins.

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APR'22 V.18

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CONTENTS 1 of 2

FEATURES

028

A balancing act Looking and feeling your best entails taking a holistic approach. It’s necessary to bring three aspects of health—body, mind, and spirit— into balance to create harmony and achieve optimal health.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN, THERESA CAMPBELL, AND JAMES COMBS

035 SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

Ask the Health Expert Receive sound advice from the dedicated health professionals in our area about various health issues.

050

Autism Awareness Hear the heartwarming story of John Tucker, a former middle school counselor with two autistic children. He became a stay-at-home-dad, giving him ample time to develop resources for other parents with autistic kids based on his and his wife Katie’s personal experiences.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

056

Lost … and then found The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is using child safety kits to locate missing children. The kits include fingerprinting, dental records, and scent preservation, providing deputies with a wealth of helpful information.

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

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APR’22 V.18

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CONTENTS 2 of 2

DEPARTMENTS

first

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020

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THE HIT LIST 020 PERSON OF INTEREST 022 OUTSTANDING STUDENT 024

agenda

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062 064

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TO-DO LIST 062 LOCAL TALENT 064 ATTRACTIONS 066 HI, SOCIETY 068

menu

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IN THE KITCHEN 078 FORK ON THE ROAD 082 DINING GUIDE 086

078 APR'22

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDICS INSTITUTE

L AKE & SUMTER

Expanding the Boundaries of Possibility in Joint Replacement APR '22

VILLAGE EDITION

columns FROM THE PUBLISHER 014 FINAL THOUGHT 096

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

Special advertising feature:

ASK THE

HEALTH EXPERT pg.

E ON TH R C OV E

096

35

AL SO

MAKING PERFECT SCENTS Child safety kits help officers sniff out missing children.

Leaders in outpatient total-joint replacements get you back in motion!

Find out more on pg. 00

COOL BEANS Nautilus Coffee Co. brews up some delicious drinks.

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE Striking a balance between mind, body, and spirit.

Wildwood couple share the joys and struggles of raising autistic twins.

ALSO

A parent’s perspective

Wildwood couple share the joys and struggles of raising autistic twins.

Making perfect scents Child safety kits help officers sniff out missing children.

Cool beans

Nautilus Coffee Co. brews up some delicious drinks.

Lake and Sumter Style

Village Edition

Design: Volkan Ulgen

On the Cover: Advanced Orthopedics Institute

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Health inside and out True health comes from a healthy mind, spirit, and body.

ou know the feeling––the familiar feeling of sliding your legs into the worn denim of a favorite pair of jeans. You know the jeans––they are the old friend in your closet who never lets you down, who can make you feel sexy when you need to feel sexy.

More than likely, these jeans have frays and even a few patches.

But that’s why you love them. Do we feel the same way about our bodies? Is our skin something we feel comfortable in? Can we feel good in our own skin despite the wrinkles, the sags, the imperfections?

It’s only natural that we want to look good. Right or wrong, how people appear on the outside is how others often judge them.

Therefore, we strive for tanned skin, well-groomed hair, sparkling eyes, and toned bodies.

Yet, some people can look naturally good on the outside, but they are hurting themselves on the inside. Take, for example, that beautiful woman who pollutes her body with nicotine, or that handsome man who takes steroids to achieve muscular arms and six-pack abs. In the long run, these toxins will have a negative impact on their bodies.

Everyone will agree that taking care of ourselves on the inside and outside is vitally important.

You will inevitably feel better about yourself, and that healthy selfesteem will radiate outward. When that happens, others will enjoy being in your presence.

How can you achieve the best of both worlds? Feeling your best on the inside should start with being in ‘preventive’ health mode and having a trustworthy, professional healthcare team in place. Make sure to exercise, eat right and always listen to your body. To feel good on the outside, try finding a dentist who can enhance your pearly white smile or a licensed esthetician/ dermatologist who can give you that beautiful, healthy skin you’ve long desired. A salon can polish off—literally—your look, leaving you feeling energized and euphoric.

I said all that to say this. Our feature story this month is titled “Look Good, Feel Good.” We’re going to delve into three pillars of health—body, mind, and spirit—to educate readers on how they can achieve a harmonious balance.

In a society where beauty represents prestige and power, leading a healthier lifestyle and enhancing your image will boost how you feel about yourself on the inside. And when you feel good on the inside, your confidence radiates outward, transforming you into the best version of yourself.

Until next month,

Kendra

Have a story to tell?

We’re always looking for stories about people who live and work in our area. Send suggestions to editorial@akersmediagroup.com

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

Kendra Akers Doug Akers

OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com

AT YOUR SERVICE

PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL Michael Gaulin James Combs

SENIOR DESIGNER michael@akersmediagroup.com

STAFF WRITER james@akersmediagroup.com

Volkan Ulgen Theresa Campbell

ART DIRECTOR volkan@akersmediagroup.com

STAFF WRITER theresa@akersmediagroup.com

Megan Mericle Roxanne Brown

GRAPHIC DESIGNER megan@akersmediagroup.com

Douglas Tyler CON TRIBUTIN G WRITER S Kathy Porter Anthony Rao STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER/ CON TRIBUTIN G VIDEOGRAPHER anthony@akersmediagroup.com P H OT OGRA P H ER A N D W RITER Nicole Hamel STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Cindy Peterson nicole@akersmediagroup.com

/

Expanding the Boundaries of Possibility in Joint Replacement APR '22

VILLAGE EDITION

Special advertising feature:

ASK THE

HEALTH EXPERT pg.

35

AL SO

DIGITAL ART DIRECTOR douglas@akersmediagroup.com

SA LES

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDICS INSTITUTE

APR'22

L AKE & SUMTER

STAFF WRITER roxanne@akersmediagroup.com MAKING PERFECT SCENTS Child safety kits help officers sniff out missing children.

Leaders in outpatient total-joint replacements get you back in motion!

Find out more on pg. 00

COOL BEANS Nautilus Coffee Co. brews up some delicious drinks.

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE Striking a balance between mind, body, and spirit.

Wildwood couple share the joys and struggles of raising autistic twins.

ALSO

A parent’s perspective

Wildwood couple share the joys and struggles of raising autistic twins.

Making perfect scents

Child safety kits help officers sniff out missing children.

Cool beans

Nautilus Coffee Co. brews up some delicious drinks.

Hot off the press!

The latest editions of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Edition Style, and Welcome to Lake County.

M A RK ETIN G

Tim McRae

VICE PRESIDENT, SALES tim@akersmediagroup.com

Melanie Melvin Shaena Long

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING melanie@akersmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR shaena@akersmediagroup.com

A D M IN IS TRATION Aubrey Akers Simmons

ACCOUNT & CLIENT SERVICES aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

D ISTRIBUTION Scott Hegg

Get yours Subscriptions: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $84. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style and Village Edition Style. Choose 2 or more magazines for $108 per year.

To order, call 352.787.4112 or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

Change of Address: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address

change request to general@akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

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Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2022 by Akers Media. All rights reserved. Lake & Sumter Style is a registered trademark of Akers Media. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or billing information, call 352.787.4112. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Paid Promotional Feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. The ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of Akers Media.

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A P R ' 2 2 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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Jonathan Molzof, Salesperson (left) Tony Pagano, General Sales Manager (right)

Gary and Belinda Scoles

P L AZ A CA D I L L AC Jonathan was very thorough and helpful in telling us about our new vehicle. He introduced us to all the service staff.

A very friendly atmosphere. One of the better experiences we’ve had, shopping for a new car.

— GARY & BELINDA SCOLES

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Sherrita Smith, Salesperson (left) Tony Pagano, General Sales Manager (right)

David Smith

P L AZ A L I N CO L N I would definitely recommend this dealer. Excellent Sales and Service team and they followed through on all commitments.

Overall experience was 5 stars!

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US HW Y 44 1, LEESB

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W I N N E R 2021

Boating Safety PAY ATTENTION. WATCH YOUR SPEED. WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. MINIMUM SAFETY EQUIPMENT • Personal flotation device fitted for each person on board or being towed, in addition to one throwable Type IV device.

• Sound Producing Device • Visual Distress Signal • Fire Extinguisher • Vessel Lights • Current Copy Of Your Boat Registration

.

Lake County Sheriff’s Office Peyton C. Grinnell, Sheriff For more information and valuable life saving links, visit www.lcso.org 018 /

L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

• It is also recommended to equip your vessel with an anchor and a sufficient amount of anchor line, a de-watering device and oar or alternate means of propulsion in case your engine fails.

first Adrienne H. Lee sheds a whole new light on art by focusing on the history behind it.

PEOPLE. COMMENTARY. NEWS.

A P R ' 2 2 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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THE HIT LIST

ALL THAT JAZZ: Chuck Archard Jazz Quartet and friends will present “Something for Everyone — A Jazz Mashup” at 4 p.m. April 24 on the Howey Mansion lawn in Howey-in-the-Hills. Tickets, $25 each, may be reserved at howeymusicseries.org. Guests are to bring their own chairs, a picnic, or sign up for a charcuterie or cheese box on the ticket site. A cash bar will be available.

CREATIVE ARTISTS: Beautiful handcrafted, unique artwork of 35 artists, most of whom live in Lake and Sumter County, make up the volunteer group Artisans of Mount Dora. They now display their creative works at a new Mount Dora location, 139 E, 4th Ave., and the group also plans to launch an online store soon. To see their creations, visit artisansofmtdora.com.

A LATTE TO BE EXCITED ABOUT! Since opening more than one year ago, Water Gypsy Coffee, located at 201 W. Main St. in downtown Leesburg, has become quite a popular hangout for locals wanting a cool place to relax and enjoy a snack, smoothie, or their favorite coffee or tea beverage, but now the shop has a new offering – online ordering and delivery!

Those interested in trying the service can simply visit shopwatergypsycoffee.com, make their selections, and place an order. For more information, visit Water Gypsy on Facebook, Instagram, or call 352.435.7937.

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

Chuck Archard

Sarah Tremblay

KUDOS TO CHERRYLAKE: Cherrylake, one of the region’s largest employers and the leading tree grower in the Southeast, has donated 48 100-gallon live oak trees to a half mile stretch of the South Lake Trail. Over the years, Cherrylake has provided over 10,800 trees.

“Some of the trees we are planting have the potential to live for thousands of years,” Timothee Sallin, Co-CEO of Cherrylake, says in a news release. “By planting trees today, we are embracing a long and optimistic view of the future for our planet and for many generations of Floridians to come.”

CHARMED CENTENNIAL: February in Groveland was filled with celebrations in honor of its 100th birthday, but there is still the rest of this year to celebrate the start of another 100 years to come for the City with Natural Charm.

Additionally, the South Lake Chamber of Commerce presented Groveland with the prestigious Heritage Award, which recognizes a business or organization that has been in existence for over 25 years and consistently demonstrated a commitment to business.

Photo of Chuck Archard provided by Howey Mansion. / Photo of Cherrylake tree farm provided by Lake County. / Permission to use phtoto of Jadyn Bowers from Sherri Owens.

Photo of Darryl Owens provided by awodtv.org. / Photo of Sarah Tremblay taken by Anthony Rao. / Teamont Boba photo taken by Nicole Hamel. / Photo of Jessica Woods provided by Amber Castellano.

BRINGING AWARENESS: A television program called “A World of Difference,” created for Leesburg’s Beacon College by its director of communications Darryl Owens, also the show’s host and producer, received a Bronze Award in the 2022 inaugural Anthem Darryl Owens Awards. Of the Anthem Awards, its focus is to recognize impactful, purpose and mission-driven work throughout the country, in various categories, that inspires others to take action in their communities. Darryl’s program, found on YouTube, celebrates and supports families navigating the journey of learning differences.

YOU GO, GIRL! Congratulations are in order for Jadyn Bowers, a Eustis High School junior with a 4.6 grade-point average, who has been named the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida’s Youth of the Year. Jadyn is an aspiring pre-med student with plans to become a rheumatologist. She plays on her school’s softball team, is headed to the state competition in weightlifting and juggles an honors course load while working part-time at Chick-Fil-A.

Jadyn Bowers

TOP OF THE CLASS: Longtime educator Jessica Woods, an AVID Coordinator and Literacy Coach at Windy Hill Middle School in Clermont, was named Lake County Schools’ 2023 Teacher of the Year during this year’s Teacher of the Year celebration, hosted by the Education Foundation of Lake County. At that time, she was also given a 2021 Nissan Rogue

by Jenkins Auto Group, a $500 gas card from Insight Credit Union, and an official Teacher of the Year ring from Josten’s. Jessica is now eligible to compete for the Florida Teacher of the Year title. Finalists will be named in May, and the winner will be announced during Jessica Woods the Florida Teacher of the Year gala in July.

FOR THE LOVE OF BOBA! Teamont Boba of Clermont, relocated from the Downtown Exchange to its own storefront at 821 W. Minneola Ave (where Revive Church used to be located). With that, Teamont added cute boba merchandise and new items to the menu, including soft serve ice cream in a variety of boba-inspired flavors, as well as boba floats and sundaes. They also offer fruit teas, milk teas, slushies, and fresh lemonade. On Facebook after their first week, Teamont posted, “We are overwhelmed by your love and feedback.” For more information, visit Teamont on Facebook, Instagram, or call 352.801.3524.

ZENIFUL: Are you interested in beginner yoga? If so, a one-hour class with a quiet focus on stretch, strengthening, and balance, is being offered at the Leesburg Public Library, 100 E. Main St., from 5:30 to 6:30 pm every Monday.

According to library officials, the yoga classes are free, but registration is requested. Participants are asked to bring a mat, blocks, or a blanket to sit on and a strap if you have one. For more information, call 352.728.9790 or visit leesburgflorida.gov/library.

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PERSON OF INTEREST

PEO PLE

Adrienne H. Lee One thing is certain about this creative woman: she has a true heart for art.

VITAL STATS

INTERVIEWER: JAMES COMBS

• Has lived in Clermont for 10 years.

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL • Graduated with an associate’s in arts degree in 1999 at Florida SouthWestern State College.

Passion for art history:

My artwork: I’m self-taught. I do acrylics, and my work is influenced by pop culture. Several of my paintings were inspired by the movie “Spiderman,” and I also painted Dante, a dog in my favorite Disney Pixar animated film, “Coco.”

I say history is the shared human experience on Earth, and art history is the visual representation of that.

My nickname: I’m known as “The Wandering Art Historian.” I give lectures, teach classes, and host book clubs.

Through Zoom, my blog, and my YouTube channel, I connect with people all over the world to talk about art. A lot of people have a weird perception that art is only for a small group of people. In reality, art is for everyone.

I tell everyone that their feeling and reaction to a piece of art is just as important as the facts about why an artist created a piece of art in the first place.

Advice for aspiring artists: Be prepared to work a lot. Whatever your style of art is, don’t stop creating it. Find your voice, and once you have a voice nobody can compete because your artistic voice is yours and yours only.

My career: I started my career providing

Artist. Bibliophile (lover of books).

Know a person of interest? Tell us!

L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

Favorite artists: Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and Marcel Duchamp.

Bucket list item: I would love to go to New York City and visit a different museum each day.

Three words to describe yourself: Nerd.

arts education at three museums and loved it.

I had to cater toward children and adults and learn how to get them connected with the arts.

I love talking to people about art. After years of working in museums, I started doing freelance work in 2017. Today, I’m teaching art classes on Zoom. Each course consists of four weekly sessions. In April, I’m teaching a course titled “The Legacy of Vincent van Gogh,” and in May I’m teaching a course titled “From Muse to Master: Celebrating Women Artists.”

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• Graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in art history from Florida State University.

Hobbies: I love science fiction films, television shows, and books.

Pet peeve: Unsolicited advice.

Favorite food: I love Italian food and chocolate.

An ideal meal would be a mushroom pizza with chocolate milk.

Email your recommendation to james@akersmediagroup.com

OUTSTANDING STUDENT

PEO PLE

Mackenzie Mulligan A 17-year-old Tavares High School senior brings strength, beauty as a varsity runner and pageant queen.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

L V I TA AT S ST

• 2022 Miss Lake County Fair.

• Varsity Award in Track & Field and Cross Country.

• Member of the National Society of High School Scholars.

• Received the City of Eustis Community Service Recognition Award.

• Member of Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Red Riot Spirit Club.

My greatest accomplishment: Being part of a team that placed at the state championship in the 4 x 800 relay as a freshman. Being motivated by the seniors on my team who always had my back made me want to do the same thing for the new members of my team by passing the torch.

Inspirations: I have two people that come to mind, the first being my friend Lloyd who I met when I was 5 years old when he was volunteering at a local nature center. He taught me to love and respect all things in the ocean and is the reason I want to pursue marine biology. The second person would be Coach Kevin Von Maxey, who was my middle school running coach.

His suggestion that I start running has given me a strong work ethic, confidence, determination, and some of my closest friends.

or need some extra encouragement.

I also think of myself as a driven person because I want to push myself towards something new or out of my comfort zone.

Favorite subject: Science has been a favorite of mine since I was five years old, and I realized I wanted to become a marine biologist.

When I’m starving, I go to: Chipotle! The chicken burrito is my favorite.

Hidden talent: While I’m only 4’11” I don’t let my short stature stop me from running hurdles for my track team.

What I want people to know about me: Even though people see an

Favorite pastime: Running.

Whether I am racing a long distance, competing in track and field events, or just out for a jog with friends, running continues to help me clear my mind and stay focused.

outward appearance that seems like I am extroverted, it took me years to find my confidence. One of the reasons I chose to start doing pageants was to gain a voice and be able to talk to people without worry.

Words that describe myself: I believe I am a kind, caring person because I look out for my friends, whether they are having a good day

My future: I plan to pursue a degree in marine biology, obtain my PhD, and find the cure for Fibropapillomatosis (cancer found in sea turtles).

Know an outstanding student? Fill us in!

Email your recommendations to editorial@akersmediagroup.com

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

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Balancing your mind, body, and spirit positively affects your overall health.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN, THERESA CAMPBELL, JAMES COMBS

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≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

magine waking up to the alarm clock without feeling tired or grouchy.

Instead, you’re energetic and your mind is laser sharp. You feel no aches or pains whatsoever and smile as you see your lean body in the mirror. You excitedly drive to work feeling stress-free and positive.

This can be much more than an exercise in imagination. You can achieve excellent health and enjoy the positive benefits associated with it. Of course, this begs the question: What does healthy living really mean?

Health entails much more than the absence of disease. To achieve total health, you need to successfully balance all areas of your life—mind, body, and spirit. If just one of these areas is out of whack, there’s a good chance you’re not living your best life and being the best version of yourself.

Improving these three pillars of health requires determination and hard work. But the rewards are well worth it. You’ll feel more confident and in control of your life and you will possess more energy to pursue your dreams and goals.

IN GOOD SPIRITS

O

ne would assume professional athletes enjoy a life of glitz and glamour. They make lots of money. They live in large homes. They drive fancy automobiles.

However, Tony McCoy, a former defensive lineman for the Indianapolis Colts, is the first to admit that athletes are not superheroes without emotions. Some of his teammates were spiritually bankrupt.

“I saw guys make hundreds of millions of dollars who would bury their heads in their hands with sadness and grief,” he says. “People believe money and material things bring them happiness, but the

truth is you must find happiness within yourself. When I say yourself, I’m not talking about your clothes, your car, or your physical body. I’m talking about your spirit. Without a spiritual life, we’re just zombies walking around. You can go to the gym and be the most buff guy, but you can still be empty inside.”

Today, Tony is senior pastor of Hope International Church in Groveland. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual health to his congregation. Those with good spiritual health, he says, experience hope, a positive outlook, a sense of self-worth, meaning and purpose in life. Additionally, strong

“WITHOUT A SPIRITUAL LIFE, WE’RE JUST ZOMBIES WALKING AROUND. YOU CAN GO TO THE GYM AND BE THE MOST BUFF GUY, BUT YOU CAN STILL BE EMPTY INSIDE.” —TONY MCCOY

Tony McCoy

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spiritual health makes our actions become more consistent with our beliefs and values.

“Some people believe we are a physical being just walking through life,” Tony says.

“I disagree. I really believe we’re spiritual beings first and we’re walking through a physical life. It’s our spirituality that should lead us through life, and for us to experience a whole life, we must get in touch with the spiritual part that Jesus calls the abundant life.”

So, how does someone go about nurturing his or her spiritual life? Here’s what Tony describes as his “five core hope values.”

• “Wake up each day and tell yourself I’m going to do the right thing. For me, doing the right thing means connecting with my spiritual self and recognizing the spiritual me. That process sets me free.”

• “Be a person of excellence. By that, I mean start serving other people and do acts of goodwill in the community. When you do good things for others, you will find yourself more spiritually connected.”

• “Be a person of integrity. We should focus on being the same person privately that we are publicly. Being a person of integrity means realizing ‘I’m not perfect but I’m on a journey toward sanctification.’”

• “Be a good steward. That means working in the moment and being there in the moment. Every day I call my mom and tell her how much I love her. That is being a good steward.”

• “Get rid of strife. The biggest weapon the enemy uses to sabotage us is strife. Strife is something we should try to prevent in our lives.”

STAT E OF M I N D

F

eeling moments of anxiety or depression? You’re not alone, according to therapists.

It’s normal to be sad from time to time, feel unsecure, and have tough days, but when these feelings linger for too long, what should one do?

“Seek out help. Yes, it’s OK to ask for support,” says Sarah Riley, of Sorrento, a certified clinical hypnotherapist, who has seen more cases of overthinking, anxiety, and depression during the past two years with her clients.

“Usually, the stress comes from not being able to control some aspects in life,” she says. “We then get into a cycle of being overwhelmed, stressed, and when this continues, depression can start to develop.”

When we’re not doing well emotionally, Sarah says it lowers our energy. She advocates the need for self-care.

“It’s important to be conscious of making yourself a priority, even in the hardest of times,” says Sarah.

“USUALLY, THE STRESS COMES FROM NOT BEING ABLE TO CONTROL SOME ASPECTS IN LIFE.” Sarah Riley

—SARAH RILEY

“IT CAN BE HELPFUL TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE WHEN YOU DON’T FEEL COMFORTABLE WITHIN YOURSELF OR THE WORLD AROUND YOU” —ALAN J. HICKEY

Alan J. Hickey

“Self-care looks like this: reading, taking a nap when you’re tired, massage, acupuncture, going for a walk, exercise, meeting up with friends, finding a hobby, medication, yoga, phoning a friend to talk to.”

She adds a person should not hold back on seeking professional help.

“It can be helpful to seek professional assistance when you don’t feel comfortable within yourself or the world around you, and it’s important for someone to seek help when they have thoughts of hurting themselves or others,” says Alan J. Hickey, a licensed mental health counselor, who earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from University of Central Florida in 2010, and his master’s in marriage, couple, and family therapy in 2015.

Alan says in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic, there was an “external disconnect” between people and those around them. “Think of April 2020, when people were practicing an aggressive social distancing – things were shut down and social activities were generally limited. That same concept is at play during significant life changes – a person entering retirement, a student graduating school or university, a veteran adapting to the civilian lifestyle, loss of a loved one, (pets included), or separation from a family member through jail, divorce, etc.”

The counselor says there’s an important connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and he advises

taking a close look at one’s sleep hygiene, nutrition and hydration, any medical condition, which “all has a profound impact on mental wellness.”

Alan adds we also need these “spices” in our lives:

SOCIAL

– need for friendship /companionship.

PHYSICAL

– need for food, sleep, exercise, air, water.

INTELLECTUAL

– need for mental stimulation of new thoughts/ideas.

CREATIVE

– need for expressing one’s inner self through appearance, cooking, clothing, writing, playing.

EMOTIONAL

– need for love, praise, security, trust, respect, recognition.

SPIRITUAL

– need for belonging and membership, believing in the power of goodness. Membership in a family is a spiritual experience.

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S O M E - B O DY T O L O V E

G

etting healthy, whether it entails losing weight, toning up, or both, seems simple enough: just eat as healthy as possible, drink plenty of water, and exercise with a goal of burning off more calories than you eat in a day, but is it really that easy?

For most people, the answer is probably no, because while those three habits are top of the list, there are other things in between to consider, including a mental component.

Even so, it’s highly attainable, just ask Nichole Mariani and Clifton “Kujo” Joseph, two independent Lake County personal trainers who through trial and error, unwavering commitment, and hard work, discovered just what it takes to get, and stay fit.

The first step? Just doing it.

“KEEP STRIVING FOR PROGRESS OVER PERFECTION.” —NICHOLE MARIANI

Nichole Mariani

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“You can say you’re going to make a change, get in better shape, or lose weight all day long, but honestly, the first step is to get up and start somewhere,” Nichole says.

“Start going out on walks, get into a gym, and each day, do a little more and be a little better than the day before.”

“After that, continue showing up for yourself no matter what,” she adds.

Clifton appreciates motivation but swears by determination.

“Motivation’s like, ‘I really need to hit the gym today, so OK, I’m feeling good! Let’s go! Let’s do it!’ When you get there however, maybe you’re not as motivated anymore, so you don’t do much or you leave; but if you’re determined, then you’re still going to do it whether you’re motivated or not,” says Clifton.

“Determination is primary.”

With Nichole, an athlete through high school and college, and after joining the U.S. Army, staying fit was a given.

When she became a mom, however, her world revolved more around caring for her kids than her body, that is, until something clicked.

“My daughters were little and running around the house, but I couldn’t run with them. I was out of breath. I wanted to sit down instead of going out to play with them,’” she recalls.

That’s when Nichole got fired up. In seven months, and a boost from Herbalife, she lost 60 pounds, an achievement that inspired her into becoming a certified personal trainer after thinking, “I’m not the only one going through this, so I need to help people, especially women, figure this out.”

Basic weight loss tips from Nichole include coming up with a good “why,” for wanting to lose weight, and staying focused on that, (her “why” was her daughters), setting short term goals and remembering that losing weight doesn’t happen overnight, celebrating every victory, no

“DETERMINATION IS PRIMARY.” —CLIFTON “KUJO” JOSEPH

matter how small (one pound, one inch, etc.), exercising consistently and gradually building intensity, staying positive, hanging around other encouraging and uplifting people, and eating healthy, with a focus on caloric intake.

“If you undereat, your body just stores whatever fat you put into it, because it’s in starvation mode. It doesn’t know when it’s going to get its next meal, so all that fat sticks to your body, and obviously with overeating, if you’re indulging and eating bad stuff, it sticks to your body, as well,” she says. “They are two different extremes, but kind of the same thing.”

Clifton’s health goals leaned more towards getting buff. He was an athlete all through school, but in college, stopped working out, until he enrolled in a fitness class at Lake Sumter State College, which in turn, shifted his focus to personal training. Today, Clifton has found his niche physically as a natural pro body builder, thanks to hard work and unbridled determination.

“People would ask what I was doing and really, I was just working out by myself in the gym, but the thing is I didn’t miss a day for about nine months, without counting weekends,” Clifton says. “After that, I didn’t miss one day for two years, and was eating healthier, but I still didn’t reach the body type I was going for, until I started bodybuilding.”

Additionally, Clifton says a healthy diet differs from person to person, but in agreement with Nichole, it involves ingesting enough calories to give the body what it needs to burn fat.

His tips for losing weight and getting fit include, staying hydrated to the tune of as close as possible to one gallon of water each day, a diet rich in proteins and vegetables, with scarce rewards or cheat days, exercise, exercise, exercise, with constant weight/routine progression to avoid plateaus, and minimal supplementation.

“The only time you need to supplement is when you know there is something specific you can’t get through food, but most vitamins you need, including branched chain amino acids, are found in meats and certain fruits and vegetables,” he says.

On top of that, Clifton says, stop comparing.

“It’s going to be a struggle sometimes, but don’t compare your body to somebody else’s, because that person’s body type may not necessarily be your body type,” he says.

Nichole says, adjust your thinking and attitude.

“Keep striving for progress over perfection,” says Nichole. “Find some good music to work out to, try to have fun with it, don’t lose sight of your ‘why,’ and listen to positive and motivational things each morning, because getting your mindset right, is key.”

Clifton “Kujo” Joseph

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HEALTH EDITION Style has brought together a number of medical experts to answer questions about various health issues.

Find your answers here from the dedicated health professionals in our area.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Mental Health

Janelle Carbone-Rodriguez, Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Cornerstone Centers for Wellbeing / 1.866.280.9355 / 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares / CornerstoneCentersForWellbeing.org

As we come out of the pandemic, what are three issues people are dealing with?

At Cornerstone Centers for Wellbeing, which is a community mental health organization, we have seen clients struggle with three issues. The first is isolation and loneliness. People went from attending parties and being very social to completely shutting down.

Children have had a difficult time because they are very social, and the elderly had a hard time because they started to outlive their family members and friends. Middleaged adults had a hard time because they are the centers of the family who take care of their children, parents, and grandparents. Things stopped and the support system broke down. We as humans thrive on being social, and that was taken away from us during the pandemic.

Another area where people have struggled is financial stress. Many lost their jobs

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and lost their ability to make a living. With the pandemic came economic consequences that made it harder for families to pay bills and meet their financial goals. Also, jobs were classified as essential and non-essential, and not everyone agreed with that.

For those working nonessential jobs, that decision went against our basic sense of fairness.

Third, people had a hard time finding new ways to accomplish routine, everyday tasks such as grocery shopping or getting a haircut.

People didn’t know how to navigate outside of what they normally do. We as humans like routine and consistency.

It gives us a sense of safety and security, and that sense of safety and security was eliminated. It was taken away from us through no fault of our own.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I really helped people reframe from the negatives

L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

into the positives. Clients would tell me there’s nothing positive about COVID-19.

However, I told them there are positives, including a new sense of gratitude in what we do have. By that, I’m not just talking about material things but also the ability to be around friends and family members and being able to go to work every day—things we

previously took for granted.

The other positive is this pandemic forced us to find new ways to do things and accomplish mundane tasks.

Instead of working harder, we learned how to work smarter and think outside the box. Sometimes, you must reach a point of discomfort to experience positive change in your life.

Urinary Care Dr. Uzoma Nwaubani Nuwa World / 352.633.0703 / 9580 N. US Highway 301, Wildwood / NuwaWorld.com

What are the current treatment and management options for incontinence?

Urinary and fecal incontinence are bothersome conditions that can affect both men and women but are especially troublesome for women after menopause. Incontinence is the uncontrollable leaking of urine and may point to an underlying medical condition.

Fecal incontinence, which occurs when you can’t control your bowel movements, causing stool to leak out unexpectedly, tends to go hand in hand with urinary incontinence. Because the bladder, urethra, and the anal sphincter are innervated by the pudendal nerve.

Both are debilitating conditions that can affect one’s quality of life, daily.

Here at NUWA WORLD, however, I help my patients by diagnosing, treating, and managing these wearisome conditions in a professional medical environment, devoted to providing the

highest level of specialized care for the problems that arise from incontinence. We also offer on-site medical and surgical procedures in our ACHA accredited and certified Class C Surgery Center, as well as medication management options.

NUWA WORLD offers the latest and most advanced technologies available to treat every type of incontinence, allowing patients to receive world-class care locally by a fellowship-trained and double board-certified urogynecologist. The right treatment for NUWA WORLD patients depends on the underlying causes of the incontinence issues a patient is suffering from.

Some patients may find relief with hormone replacement, bladder suspension or tension free, vaginal taping.

But the newest technologies we offer may include the Emsella Chair, a mechanism that helps by contracting and building up the pelvic

muscles that control urine flow, or InterStim, a bladder pacemaker, which helps the bladder communicate with the brain to trigger when to go. We also offer a minimally invasive outpatient procedure called Bulkamid, that consists of injecting a gel-like material around the weakened urethral wall muscles to stop urinary leakage. This procedure, which doesn’t require the use of general anesthesia, has been used worldwide for seven years and the results have been amazing and long-lasting.

Q. Genitourinary

Syndrome of Menopause in women: What to know?

A. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause in women is a condition caused by lack of estrogen, and includes symptoms like vaginal dryness, burning, irritation,

recurring urinary tract infections, urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, pelvic or vaginal pain, and painful sex.

Vaginal estrogen helps but must be self-applied multiple times a week to remain effective.

Another treatment, the MonaLisa Touch, through laser energy, infuses CO2 into the cells around the vagina and anus to strengthen and rejuvenate the vaginal and perineal tissues, and relieves these menopausal symptoms.

With these technologies, women shouldn’t have to suffer through menopause.

The way I see it, ovulation stops because of menopause, but our lives are not allowed to stop.

If you would like more information on the services we provide, please contact us at NUWA WORLD. New patients are always welcome.

Home Health Shayna Grunewald, CEO (R) / Lori Davis, COO (L)

Lake Centre Home Care / 352.315.0050 / 310 Market Street, Leesburg / golchc.com

What is Skilled Home Health and what are the Benefits?

Skilled home health is skilled medical services provided in your home.

Skilled home health requires a physician’s order which means your care is closely monitored by your physician and our clinical team. Skilled home health includes, skilled nursing services, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and medical social services.

At Lake Centre Home Care, we see patients in their home for many reasons including orthopedic surgeries, open heart surgeries, medication management and education, IV medication administration and wound care. For the Medicare population skilled home health is covered 100% by Medicare Part A. Medicare Advantage plans sometimes have a copay.

Many commercial insurance

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plans also cover skilled home health.

Many people confuse skilled home health with private duty care. Private duty services can complement skilled home health, but they provide a different kind of care. Private duty includes light housework, sitting with a patient, cooking and personal care. Private duty services are not covered by Medicare

L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

and are sometimes covered by commercial insurance plans.

At Lake Centre Home Care, we recognize that skilled home health is a vital part of our healthcare system. Statistics show that patients who utilize quality skilled home health as part of their recovery are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital than those without.

Patients of Lake Centre Home

Care have access to one of our nurses 24 hours a day.

Lake Centre Home Care’s team of qualified clinicians are committed to you and your recovery.

LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE

Eye Care Jaya B. Kumar, MD, FASRS Florida Retina Institute / 352.259.9944 / 790 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake / FloridaRetinaInstitute.com

What is important to know about agerelated macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the center part of the retina, called the macula, and tends to manifest with age, especially for those in their 50s and 60s.

Hereditary and environmental factors play a role.

In terms of environmental factors, we know there is some oxidative stress that make it worse, such as smoking. The first thing we tell our patients with macular degeneration is to stop smoking.

There are two kinds of macular degeneration: dry and wet.

The dry kind means there is no fluid in the retina.

We observe dry macular degeneration and recommend AREDS2 eye vitamins. People usually have good vision with dry macular, but sometimes if it progresses and the retina gets thinner over time,

people can lose part of their central vision.

With wet macular degeneration, fluid develops in the macula and there is risk for bleeding, which can cause scar tissue. So, we treat wet macular degeneration with injections in the eye, initially once a month, and then we space it out depending on how well they are responding. When people hear about having a needle in their eye, it seems very daunting, but they quickly appreciate the smooth process that we walk them through and perform the treatment (injection) without any pain.

Injections have revolutionized the care of macular degeneration as well as diabetic macular edema and retinal vein occlusions.

The good news is macular degeneration is something people can live with these days.

They can maintain good vision, keep their driver’s license, and their independence.

Q. What do you

recommend to help maintain good eye health?

A. For overall good eye health, we recommend maintaining blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Improving your cardiovascular health also improves your blood circulation to your eyes.

In Lady Lake and Lake County, macular degeneration is prevalent, very common, and is about 50 percent of our practice. A lot of people may not even know they have macular degeneration.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends

those over 60 to get their eyes dilated once a year or once every other year to check for age-related changes in their eyes.

I tell people to occasionally cover each eye separately.

Look at tile or the edge of your window sill, and if you notice a little distortion or a wave in the line, that can be the first sign of a macular-related condition.

People are grateful that there are treatments available now for eye conditions. At Florida Retina Institute, we provide personalized care for each patient to help maintain excellent vision.

Orthodontics Luisa Betancur, DMD / Betancur Orthodontics 352.751.3534 / 11962 County Road 101, STE. 204, The Villages / BetancurOrtho.com

What is the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist?

A general dentist performs procedures such as filling cavities, teeth cleaning, and teeth whitening.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who helps correct problems with a person’s bite and helps straighten crooked teeth or misaligned jaws. An orthodontist goes through four years of dental school and then attends a two- or three-year residency program focusing exclusively on orthodontics. Because

orthodontists have specialized training, I think we can treat complex cases much better.

After all, orthodontics is what we do all day, every day. From a time standpoint, treatment will typically be completed sooner with an orthodontist versus a general dentist.

Q: What is the

advantage of having orthodontic treatment?

A: It helps you maintain healthier teeth. When you

have straight teeth, it allows you to have a healthier bite and keeps your teeth from being worn. Also, orthodontic treatment helps prevent getting cracks or damage on your teeth. When your bottom teeth are crowded, that’s when you experience the build-up of tartar. Straight teeth lessen the chances of getting tartar build-up, which prevents bone loss and gingivitis.

I also treat sleep apnea, a condition where people stop breathing in their sleep.

The treatment is done in conjunction with an oral surgeon. I put braces on patients to align the teeth, and the oral surgeon uses braces to stabilize the jaw during surgery. The surgeon performs a maxillary

mandibular advancement, a procedure that expands the palate and arch, creating a permanent airway solution.

Q: I need my teeth

straightened but don’t want metal braces. Is there an alternative?

A: I use a product called Invisalign, which is a clear plastic aligner that is comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible with no metal braces or wires to cause mouth abrasions. It can be used to treat almost anyone who desires straighter teeth. Patients wear a set of aligners for two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As a patient replaces each aligner with the next in the series, his/her teeth will move until they have straightened to the final position.

Q: What makes you

passionate about your job?

A: Being able to give patients a confident smile that has a positive effect on their personality is very rewarding.

Dermatology K. Wade Foster, M.D., PhD Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers / (855) FLD-SKIN / fldscc.com

Q: Why Do I Need an Annual Skin Exam?

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. and the American Academy of Dermatology suggests that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Approximately 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.

Anyone can develop skin cancer, regardless of skin color. The most common cause of skin cancer is from exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun and artificial tanning beds. The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the DNA in your skin cells and lead to cell mutation and the formation of malignant tumors.

The good news is that with early identification and diagnosis, skin cancer is highly treatable. If cancerous changes are detected in the early stages, treatment has a much higher likelihood of being effective. This is the primary reason why receiving a regular skin screening with a dermatologist is an important and proactive step you can take to protect your skin and prevent cancerous growths from worsening.

Regular examinations to look for the ABCDEs of skin cancer are especially crucial if you are at high risk due to a compromised immune system, a personal history of skin cancer, or a family history of skin cancer. A is for Asymmetry: One half of the mole looks

different from the other half. B is for Border: The mole has an irregular or poorly defined border. C is for Color: The mole’s color varies from one area to the next and may include shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue. D is for Diameter: It may be greater than six millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, and can be smaller when diagnosed. E is for Evolving: The mole or lesion is changing in size, shape, or color over time.

Areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun are more prone to develop moles or certain growths, and because of this, it’s very important to have an experienced dermatologist or licensed medical professional conduct a yearly body analysis to check all areas of your body, including your scalp, neck, and back. During this time, your

dermatologist can go over pertinent medical history with you, check for any changes, and recommend the best treatment options for a bright future.

Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers provides a full spectrum of dermatology and skin care services. Our team of physicians, APRNs, and PAs are experts in diagnosing and treating skin cancers, as well as skin conditions and diseases such as eczema, rosacea, dry skin, rashes, warts and more. FLDSCC’s Medical Director, Dr. K. Wade Foster, is also fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery, the most effective technique for most types of skin cancers, with minimal scarring or risk.

For more information, or to schedule a comprehensive annual skin exam, call (855) FLD-SKIN, or visit fldscc.com.

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

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Call 352.751.2862 Today!

Our surgeons are national leaders in the field of hip, shoulder and knee replacement. We continually conduct research and embrace the best technology available to improve care and outcomes, so our patients can really enjoy their lives.

Alfred J. Cook, Jr., MD Dr. Cook is among the nation’s leading shoulder surgeons and now performs nearly 99% of his total shoulder and reverse shoulder replacements as outpatient surgeries, allowing patients to recover in the comfort of their own home, where they are in control. He now serves as Medical Director of TLC Outpatient Surgery and Laser Center in Lady Lake, caring for patients with acute and chronic orthopedic needs return to the sports and activities they enjoy most.

AOI INTEGRATES ITS APPROACH TO GETTING YOU BACK IN MOTION

Regenerative Therapy | Onsite X-Ray | Outpatient Physical Therapy

Megan Benoit, MSN, FNP-C, APRN, RNFA Megan works with Dr. Williams, seeing patients, providing pre- and post-op education and care, visiting patients in the hospital and assisting in surgery. She believes in a holistic approach to patient care and listens carefully to patients’ concerns, needs and opinions. Outside of the office she enjoys bowling, fishing and going to the beach.

Heather Fleming, MSN, APRN-C, RNFA Heather works with Dr. Cook in clinic and the OR, and is excited to help educate her patients, prepare them for procedures, and coordinate their home health, rehab, transportation and other care needs. She is currently working toward her Doctorate in Nursing Practice.

Regenerative Therapy (PRP) Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) uses a patient’s own blood, which is drawn in our office and spun in a centrifuge, to stimulate the body’s natural repair process. PRP can help regenerate tissue in damaged joints, tendons or ligaments. It is used to reduce pain and swelling, increase range of motion, speed recovery, Increase flexibility, and recover mobility. PRP is helpful in treating arthritis, bursitis, chronic pain, degenerative conditions, fractures, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, sprains, and more.

Physical Therapy Conditions that cause pain or limited mobility often benefit from specialized orthopedic physical therapy. We help patients regain mobility, strength and range of motion and also focus on making sure patients heal quickly and safely after injuries and surgery.

Onsite X-Ray Sean LeClerc, RT(R), has the expertise and knowledge in orthopedic imaging to make your experience better.

X-ray images are made during your appointment to see the extent of your injury or how well you are healing.

1400 N US Hwy 441, Suite 552 | The Villages, FL 32159 phone 352.751.2862 | fax 855.420.1047 | goaoi.com

A DVA N C E D O R T H O P E D I C S I N S T I T U T E OUR SERVICES SPORTS MEDICINE

FRACTURES OF THE UPPER AND LOWER EXTREMITIES

OUTPATIENT AND INPATIENT TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT OF THE HIP, KNEE AND SHOULDER

PHYSICAL THERAPY AND SPORTS REHABILITATION

ROSA® ROBOTIC KNEE REPLACEMENT

BRACING AND ORTHOTICS

REVISION TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT

ONSITE X-RAY

EARLY INTERVENTION AND CARTILAGE REGENERATION

PRP SOFT TISSUE AND JOINT INJECTIONS

STEM CELL TREATMENT

AOI INTRODUCES ITS OWN LINE OF CBD PRODUCTS Benefits include: • Minimal (if any) side effects • Few known medication interactions • Reduced inflammation throughout the body not just joints, muscles and tendons.

AOI CBD products are available to patients and non-patients by visiting the office during normal hours, and include: People who suffer from arthritis and other types of joint pain may have considered cannabis-based treatments, such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil, as an alternative to opiod and other prescription medications. They may also be unsure about which ones to buy, and where to buy them.

After considerable research and due diligence, AOI has introduced its own line of CBD products to give patients a healthier alternative for pain relief.

• Pain Management CBD Salve • Full-Spectrum CBD Sublingual Tincture (Peppermint and Natural) • CBD Salve/ Pain Stick • Massage Oil Lotion

SHARON L. MORSE MEDICAL CENTER

1400 N US Hwy 441, Suite 552 | The Villages, FL 32159 phone 352.751.2862 | fax 855.420.1047 | goaoi.com

Skilled Nursing | Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy | Speech Therapy Home Health Aides/CNAs | MSW Services.

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310 Market St., Leesburg | Phone: 352.315.0050 | Fax: 352.315.0059 | www.golchc.com HHA299992424

Head & Neck Cancer:

Cut Your Risk PA I D

P R OMO T IO N A L

F E AT U R E

S

moking (including secondhand smoke and smokeless tobacco, sometimes called “chewing tobacco” or “snuff”) is the number one risk factor for getting head and neck cancer. And people who use both tobacco and alcohol are many times more likely to get head and neck cancer than people with neither habit. Research has also shown that continued smoking by a patient with head and neck cancer may reduce the effectiveness of treatment and increase the chance of a second primary cancer.

RBOI is a member of the Tobacco Free Florida Partnership of Marion County. We support efforts to create tobacco-free environments and smoking cessation and prevention programs, especially those targeted to our youth.

Wendy Hall, a Licensed Clinical Social

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Worker and Cancer Navigator at RBOI, is also a tobacco cessation specialist.

Call her at 352-527-0106 for more information.

Know Your Symptoms Hoarseness and voice changes can be a sign of head and neck cancer; see your doctor if they do not improve within two weeks. Head and neck cancers can also start away from the vocal cords and produce other symptoms. The most common is swelling or a sore that does not heal. Other symptoms include: Persistent sore throat Constant coughing

Pain/difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving jaw or tongue Ear pain/infection Trouble breathing A lump, bump, or mass in head or neck A red or white patch in the mouth Foul mouth odor not explained by hygiene Persistent nasal obstruction/ congestion Frequent nosebleeds and/or unusual discharge Double vision Numbness/weakness in the head and neck region Blood in saliva or phlegm Loosening teeth Dentures no longer fit Unexplained weight loss Fatigue

by the numbers

54,010 Estimated new diagnoses of head and neck cancers in the US, annually

The HPV Connection Human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted virus in the US, has been playing an increasing role in head and neck cancers. This discovery was made by researchers at The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA).

TCGA researchers studied 279 head and neck cancer tumors and found that more than 70% had specific gene alterations, for which therapies are either available or in development.

They also found similarities to other cancers and clues to drug resistance.

About 25 percent of head and neck cancers have been linked to HPV infection, but researchers have seen a rapid increase in these HPV-related cancers, especially in oropharyngeal tumors. There are vaccines available to protect you from the HPV strains that cause head and neck cancer.

“While many head and neck cancers are preventable, they are increasingly common throughout the world, and often challenging to effectively treat over the long term,” says Harold Varmus, MD, director of the National Cancer Institute.

“This type of broad analysis provides important new clues for future research and treatment directions.”

Did You Know?

Head and neck cancers are divided into five main types:

+0.9%

Average annual increase in new oral cavity and pharynx cancer cases from 2009-2018

2x

Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers occur in and around the voice box.

Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancers occur behind the nose.

Nasopharyngeal cancers occur at the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

Oral and oropharyngeal cancers occur in the mouth, tongue, and the area from tonsils to voice box.

Salivary gland cancers occur in the mouth glands that produce saliva.

Head and neck cancers are twice as common in men versus women

Patient-centered radiation oncology close to home

2.8%

New cancer cases diagnosed in the US are head and neck

The Villages 352.259.2200 Ocala 352.732.0277 Timber Ridge 352.861.2400 Inverness 352.726.3400 Lecanto 352.527.0106 RBOI.com

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In honor of Autism Awareness and Acceptance month, Wildwood’s John and Katie Tucker get personal about the ups and downs of raising twins on the spectrum.

STORY ROXANNE BROWN

ix years ago this month, Wildwood residents John and Katie Tucker lovingly welcomed twins – a boy named Jack and a girl named Ellie – into the world.

In July 2021, John launched a faith-based blog – Autism4Christ.org – intended to educate and help parents, especially dads, navigate their journeys raising children with autism spectrum disorder, by way of his own personal reflections and experiences.

The challenges, changes, and beauty that transpired in John and Katie’s life in between those two dates, however, is where the true lesson lies.

“In one of my blog posts, I mentioned the five stages of grief that everybody’s familiar with, feelings you experience when you lose a loved one for example,” John says, adding that those feelings are

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≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

very similar to what parents may feel when told that their child has a disability, sickness, or disease.

John says he and Katie experienced some of that when Jack and Ellie were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder three years ago.

“You go through phases when you do feel angry, you feel depressed, you feel sad, you bargain: ‘Why God, why us, why couldn’t we have children that could do everything like all the other children?’

And then you come to a point where you feel that ‘You know what? I love my kids just the way they are, they’re beautiful and there’s so many things about them that I wouldn’t see if they wouldn’t have autism, and there’s things as a parent that I wouldn’t have learned if they didn’t have autism,’ so you start looking at the beauty and the blessing behind it, and you can kind of get into the acceptance phase where you realize that this is how God made them and he made them absolutely beautiful and for a purpose.”

Jack and Ellie were born in April 2016, at least five weeks premature.

Even so, the tiny babies were healthy and before long, cleared for home life.

With that, the Tuckers were ready to give first-time parenting their all.

Embracing the experience, the months passed without too many hiccups, though the Tuckers noticed a few missed milestones.

“The twins were born early, at 35 weeks, so we always figured they would be a little bit behind. As they were growing up, they were a little bit later to crawl, and a little later to walk, but we didn’t think much of it,” Katie says.

But when they still weren’t talking much around their 18-month appointment, Katie says their pediatrician recommended they consult Early Steps, a state-run early intervention system that offers services for kids from birth to 3-years-old who have, or are at-risk for, developmental disabilities or delays.

Jack and Ellie were evaluated and approved for speech and occupational therapy, but at that time, not flagged for autism.

Lucy, Jack, Katie, John, and Ellie Tucker

“(Early Steps) told us the twins were developmentally delayed at that point.

They seemed interactive, they just didn’t talk a lot, although Ellie was in her own world, kind of just doing her Ellie thing, as we call it,” Katie says.

The next step was a visit with a neuro developmental specialist at Shands in Gainesville, an appointment that for the twins, included an eyesight check, and play observation.

That’s when the children received a preliminary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, a

developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.

“The findings were based on things like that the twins didn’t turn to look at him when he said, “hi,” or demonstrate eye contact during their time with him,” Katie explains. “He also asked us if the twins regularly point to things and say, ‘Mommy, look at this!’ or even if they don’t say the words, do they try getting our attention to show us things?”

Katie and John say they were a little leery about the diagnosis, but they kept an

open mind about it. They continued with in-home speech and occupational therapy for the time being to see how they would progress over the next several months.

Since Katie and John both worked full time, and with a new baby on the way, Katie’s mom also stepped in to watch Jack and Ellie at home.

Meanwhile, when the family didn’t see significant improvement in Jack and Ellie’s speech and communication skills despite therapy sessions, the Tuckers sought more testing and right before their third birthday, the twins were officially

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Lucy, Ellie, and Jack

diagnosed with autism. Ellie’s condition was deemed more severe than Jack’s.

“I think there’s a lot of parents that are really hesitant about getting a diagnosis because they don’t want to see a label on their child as a negative or a set-back, but neither Katie nor I feared the label itself at this point,” John says. “I mean, it was difficult, but I think we both accepted it because we had been seeing some of the notable signs for a while.

Katie says the diagnosis brought her a sense of comfort, explaining: “I felt a little sad, but I thought, ‘OK, we know what the concerns are, what’s different about our kids, now what can we do to help them?’”

John says he experienced a revelation.

“You kind of have these visions and plans in your mind, about where your kids will go and about what specific track

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they’re going to follow,” John says. “After their diagnosis, it was the first time we were like, ‘Oh, this might not be the path our kids are on, so we need to start thinking about exploring alternatives.

What are some options out there for our kids?’”

Also, with baby Lucy in the picture as the newest family member, the Tuckers’ eyes were opened to a surprising new world of firsts.

“With Jack and Ellie, our hands were full constantly, but with Lucy, we didn’t have to be intentional with teaching her basic developmental things. She just independently started talking and doing things, and I would look at Katie and say, ‘I didn’t teach her that, did you?’”

John recalls.

From there, Jack and Ellie attended public school, but after a time, were

Ellie Jack and Lucy

placed at Better Life Academy, a school in Leesburg that specializes in teaching children with autism.

Ellie was enrolled there first, and that’s when she began talking. Katie says, “hearing Ellie say ‘mama’ for the first time at 4 years old was one of the most special moments of her life.” To this day, she participates in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy, and though she still has behavioral challenges, occasional melt downs at times, and sensory sensitivities, her speech has improved, and she can communicate her needs more easily. She even sports a perfect British accent she learned from Peppa Pig, she is friendly and active, and interacts much better socially.

A year later, Jack began attending Better Life, and though he was already talking, he is thriving too. He likes following a rigid schedule and does not like change, but his vocabulary has exploded, he interacts well with other children, is a pro with Legos, and loves asking questions and learning about God. Additionally, Jack has a special gift for memorization and can recite the names of all the cities, states, and countries of the world.

John says each one of the twins has their own unique complexities and gifts, but at times, they can’t help wondering about Ellie’s long-term future.

“You live in this land of, “Will Ellie ever get married? Will she ever be able to go to school independently? Will she ever… fill in the blank. I think everybody has these expectations for their kids.,” John says.

“You have all these assumptions that that’s how life is, but then you realize that may not be what happens here.”

“While we don’t know what’s going to happen, we know God is in control and we believe Ellie has a bright future ahead of her. She’s already impacted the lives of many people who have been around her.”

Workwise, Katie still works full time from home.

John however, quit his job as a counselor at The Villages Charter School to become a stay-at-home dad for now.

“Most of the people we know with children on the spectrum have one parent at home and although it’s tough financially sometimes, it just makes life easier for everyone,” Katie says.

John, who loves to write, also started a blog in hopes of helping other people, especially dads, stay in faith and encouraged, as they learn how to best deal with the challenges of raising a child with autism or other disabilities.

Topics range from how to prepare for outings, and how to do Christmas without throwing your child’s sensory sensitivities into a tizzy with added lights and sounds, to learning how to practice patience and offering tips on how people may be able to support and encourage families with autistic children.

John says he feels dads, including

“I believe that God gives parents kids with disabilities to ultimately teach the parents more about Him and themselves, but through the kids,” John says.

“For example, I’ve learned through my experience with my kids, that I’m not as patient of a person as I thought I was.”

He says he also hopes the blog can give others a better understanding of autism and about what families with children on the spectrum may be going through.

“The blog is directed to a specific audience in one sense, but I also understand that I have family and friends who don’t have kids with special needs so I want to make sure they can read it and grab a piece from it that they can hold onto as well,” he adds. “I know parenting in general is difficult for anybody, so I keep that in mind. I want my blog to be for

“WHILE WE DON’T KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN, WE KNOW GOD IS IN CONTROL.” —JOHN TUCKER

himself, may not be as vocal about their struggles or as inclined to join support groups or seek out friends like many moms do.

In his quest to learn more about autism, John also noticed a lack of faithbased content on the subject.

“The blogpost is a good outlet. It gives me an opportunity to share what I’ve learned,” says John adding that he uses the blog to post pictures and videos of his family and talk about his everyday feelings and experiences, good and bad, and encourages others to share their stories in return.

John also writes about how his experiences relate to God’s Word and His plan.

anybody that reads it, but very specifically for those parents who feel they need a voice of understanding in their life.”

John says he is also working on a YouTube channel where he will upload videos and talk on similar topics to reach a broader audience.

His hope is that those resources enlighten and bring people closer to God and foster a better understanding for all people.

“My goal is to help people understand a little bit better,” he says, “and to show them that, ‘Hey, God still has a plan, we can get through this and there’s lots of great things our kids can teach us and we can teach them, and they’re still going to have an amazing impact on the world.”

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Left: Bobby Lambert, Lake Sumter Transmissions.

Center: Cindi Falanga, Citizens First Bank. Right: Gina Lambert, Lake Sumter Transmissions.

Do You Know Your Banker?

Bobby & Gina Lambert of Lake Sumter Transmissions do!

“We have always appreciated the ability to walk in, sit down, and talk with someone about our financial needs and get advice on how to achieve our goals. Cindi and her staff are literally a phone call away and always happy to help.”

— Bobby & Gina Lambert

Owner/Operators, Lake Sumter Transmissions

Make the switch to Citizens and get to know your Banker today!

Connect with us on Facebook!

www.MyCitizensFirst.com | 352-259-3200 BauerFinancial 5-Star Rated Bank, Since 2014

COUNTER-OFFER CAFE

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A GREAT START TO THE DAY SPECIALTY COFFEES • GRAB -AND-GO ARTISAN SANDWICHES • SWEETS AND SNACKS Where warm hospitality meets an unending array of delectable grab-and-go specialties.

From breakfast treats to artisan sandwiches and pastries, don’t miss this casual café in the heart of our senior living community. Open daily for breakfast and lunch.

This is HarborChase. Come celebrate with us.

Experience a Taste of HarborChase

HARBORCHASE OF VILLAGES CROSSING 3 5 2 . 3 2 9.6 6 1 2

HARBORCHASE OF WILDWOOD 3 5 2 .6 5 6 .7 9 7 1

Safety kits for children and adults provide valuable tool when loved ones go missing.

STORY THERESA CAMPBELL

parent’s moment of fear: You’re enjoying a beautiful day at the park while your child is happily playing with other children. You turn your back for a second, and in that instant, your child has vanished from sight.

Most of us can only imagine the helpless panic and worry that sets in.

According to the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC), there were 421,394 incidents reported of missing children in the U.S. in 2019.

Thankfully, Sumter County Sheriff ’s Office and Lake County Sheriff ’s Office have scent kits, which can be used to assist law enforcement officers and their K9 units in locating missing children, when it may be needed.

Manufactured by Scent Evidence K9 of Tallahassee, some 500 Child Safety Kits were recently delivered to Sheriff Bill Farmer, Major Pat Breeden, Lt. Bob Siemer at SCSO’s administrative offices. The kits include fingerprinting, dental records, scent preservation, photograph placement, along with

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≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL medical and physical information of height, weight, hair color, blood type, DNA sample.

The sheriff ’s departments also have scent kits for adults who may go missing.

“Our scent preservation kits are pretty much to develop proactive family safety measures to the most vulnerable,”

“THE IMPORTANCE IS HAVING THE KIT ON HAND IS SAFETY FOR MANY REASONS.” —BETH HUNT

says Beth Hunt, community outreach coordinator for SCSO, adding her department’s focus is on two populations: “children with autism disorder and our elderly with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

Beth says the scent in each kit is good for 10 years. The piece of gauge in the kit only features the pure, unique scent of an individual, and the kit is only opened when necessary to assist scent-discriminating bloodhounds in tracking a missing person.

“The importance is having the kit on hand is safety for many reasons,” says Beth. “We give out more kits for adults than we do children. We give them out to adults, mainly in The Villages, where we have a lot of dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.”

Beth says without the kit and there was a missing person case, police would take an item from the bedroom or something out of the house that smells like the child. “There might be three or four smells on top of the person’s scent,” she says, adding it could make it difficult to track the missing person. “With the kit, there is no other scent on that gauge other than the child’s scent, so it works better.”

In Lake County, residents can contact Lake County Sheriff ’s Office for information on obtaining a scent kit. In Sumter County, the free kits are available from either the Villages Annex or Administrative Office in Bushnell.

Sumter County residents seeking information on how to obtain and use a Child Safety Kit to improve the safety of a member of their family can call Beth Hunt at 352.569.1698 or Lt. Bob Siemer at 352.689.4600.

CHILD SAFETY TIPS

Talk about safety: Discuss safety in a non-threatening way, so that your child does not become afraid. Help them learn to be cautious and aware of their surroundings.

Maintain open communication: Open communication is the key. Encourage your child to trust their intuition. Make sure they are comfortable letting you know when something feels wrong.

Teach your child their important information: Open communication is the key. Encourage your child to trust their intuition. Make sure they are comfortable letting you know when something feels wrong.

Update your records every few months: Kids grow quickly, and even small changes in height, weight, and hair style can significantly alter their appearance. Make sure you have easy access to recent photos of your child.

Teach rules about dealing with strangers: Let your child know that adults should never threaten children nor ask children for help. Make sure your child understands they should never go anywhere with an adult they do not know.

Do not label clothing or items: Never label clothing or personal items with your child’s name or info. A stranger could use this information to gain your child’s trust by pretending to know them.

Have a system in place: Teach your child how to find help if separated from you in public. When you’re out with your children, point out safe adults they could approach if they were in trouble.

Know where your child is at all times: It can be tough to keep up with active kids but having a list of their activities can help. Keep a list of addresses and phone numbers of places they frequent that you can find quickly.

Source: Childsafekit.com Beth Hunt

CENTRAL FLORIDA PLASTIC SURGERY A PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE 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.

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With age, gravity, and loss of and neck lift with laser liposuction skin elasticity, we can observe the stigmata of old age: along the jawline and neck using nasolabial and marionette lines, jowl formation, and a Smartlipo technology.

turkey gobbler neck.

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

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!

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Lake Sumter Landing Professional Plaza | 910 Old Camp Rd. Suite 142 | The Villages

LAKE SUMTER LANDING PROFESSIONAL PLAZA | 910 OLD CAMP RD., SUITE 142 | THE VILLAGES, FL 32162

With over 29 years in the local community, Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County is your

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Contac t us dir ectly to see cardiac one of our s assess pecialists to and im prove your ca vascula rdiac and receive r health and the compa personal touch y ssionate o tender u and your heart n eeds.

J. Henry Lesmes, MD, FACC A founding member of CVA in 1992, Dr. Henry Lesmes specializes in Invasive Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease and holds certifications in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. He and his team of five cardiologists and three nurse practitioners together strive to provide quality, compassionate patient-centered care as their top priority while introducing cutting-edge procedures to this community. Dr. Lesmes serves as an active board member of the American College of Cardiologists Florida Chapter, ensuring that adequate cardiology services are available in Lake County.

352.742.1171 // cvalakecounty.com

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Call us today at 407.426.6000 or Toll-Free 888.843.8328, or visit us online to apply for an auto loan today!

INSIGHTCREDITUNION.COM Loan subject to normal underwriting guidelines. Actual interest rate will be customized based on credit characteristics. Interest accrues from the date of contract. Loan application subject to a $38 Loan Application Fee. Approved refinance and cash-out refinance auto loans subject to a Lien Recording Fee. Other fees may apply. 1 $2,000 cash-out minimum for cash-out refinance auto loans. Existing Insight Credit Union auto loans are eligible for the cashout refinance option. Member must be in good standing and current on all loan payments. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Membership required.

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agenda EVENTS. TRAVEL. PEOPLE.

After unleashing the art in her soul, Kelley Batson-Howard is happier than ever.

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THE TO-DO LIST

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2022

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17

EVENT

Going green It’s estimated that 1 billion people around the world celebrate Earth Day in one form or another.

Mother Nature is counting on you not to be a party pooper.

Earth Day Mount Dora features exhibits, raffles, and lots of fun.

Learn how you can do your part to help the environment.

Apr. 17 / Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St. / mountdoraenvironment.com

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FAIR

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Get your fair share The Lake County Fair is officially 101 years old. The fun, family friendly event features free entertainment, livestock shows, carnival rides, 4-H exhibits, and games.

Don’t forget the tasty treats like funnel cakes, Philly cheesesteaks, corn dogs, elephant ears, and more.

Apr. 7-16 / Lake County Fairgrounds, 201 Hwy. 452, Eustis / lakecofair.com

apr.

R ACE

Be on the run

ON STAGE

AdventHealth’s Clay U Run U Pick Blueberry 5k will be held at Southern Hill Farms in Clermont. After participants finish running along Clermont’s pristine clay roads, they will be treated to a free pancake breakfast and can pick a pint container of blueberries for free.

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

CLASSIC LITERATURE COMES TO THE STAGE

Apr. 30 / Southern Hill Farms, 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont / 4078.986.5806

4/8-24

Bay Street Players presents “To Kill a Mockingbird,” which is based on Harper Lee’s 1961 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a child’s view of race and justice in the Depression-era South. The book continues selling 1 million copies each year, and the character Scout remains one of the most beloved characters in American literature history.

Bay Street Players, 109 N. Bay St. Eustis.

Call 352.357.7777 for more information.

APR

30

GENERATING SOME BUZZ

4/22, 23, 24, 29, 30

The Moonlight Players Theater’s production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” centers around an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents who vie for the spelling bee championship of a lifetime.

Clermont Performing Arts Center, 3700 U.S. Hwy. 27.

Call 352.394.4800 for more information.

ONGOING EVE NTS Events are subject to change and cancellation.

EVERY SUN

EVERY SUN

EVERY MON

EVERY TUE

Clermont Farmer’s Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Downtown Clermont

Downtown Mount Dora Village Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mount Dora

Webster’s Farmer’s Market 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

524 North Market Blvd., Webster

Lady Lake Farmer’s Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

250 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake

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THE TO-DO LIST

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

APR

23-24

4/4 @ 7 p.m.

4/16 @ 4 p.m.

THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Sharon, The Villages

MICHELLE INGRHAM The Sunny Pint, Wildwood

4/7 @ 7 p.m.

C.O.D. FLORIDA Hurricane Dockside Grill, Tavares

4/17 @ 4:30 p.m.

THE UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN The Sharon, The Villages

4/8 @ noon

FESTIVAL

A BERRY GOOD TIME

MICHELLE INGRHAM Ednas’ on the Green, Wildwood

Hail the blueberry, widely touted as one of the healthiest fruits. The 7th annual Mount Dora Blueberry Festival celebrates Central Florida’s rapidly growing agriculture business. Learn about local blueberry farms and celebrate all things blueberry: shortcake, wine, liquor, beer, scones, and more. The event also features vendors, live entertainment, and activities for children.

JIM STAFFORD Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

THE SOUNDS OF SUMMER Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

4/22 @ 7 p.m.

JEFF VITOLO AND THE QUARTER MILE REBELS Windy Acres Bikefest Camp, Fruitland Park

4/9 @ 3 p.m.

MICHELLE INGRHAM Lazy Mac’s Taco Shack, The Villages

4/23 @ 4 p.m.

4/9 @ 7 p.m.

MICHELLE INGRHAM Tierra Del Sol Country Club, The Villages

THE OPERA LOCOS The Sharon, The Villages

4/25 @ 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

4/10 @ 1 p.m.

MANFREDI ROCKS Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille, The Villages

4/10 @ 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

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, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749

MANFREDI ROCKS Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille, The Villages

4/22 @ 7 p.m.

4/8 @ 7 p.m.

Apr. 23-24 / Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St. mountdorablueberryfestival.com

4/22 @ 6 p.m.

BALLROOM WITH A TWIST The Sharon, The Villages

4/28 @ 7 p.m.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

MICHELLE INGRHAM GarVino’s Cigars, Fine Wine and Gifts, The Villages

4/16 @ 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

4/29 @ 7 p.m.

LET’S HANG ON Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

BOBBY RANDALL AND THE OBO BAND Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

4/15 @ 6 p.m.

MANFREDI ROCKS Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille, The Villages

4/30 @ 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

RHONDA VINCENT Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

EVERY THU

1ST FRI

1ST FRI

2ND FRI

2ND SAT

4TH SAT

Lake County Farmers & Flea Market 8 a.m.- noon 250 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake

Eustis First Friday 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Downtown Eustis

Clermont First Friday Food Trucks 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

685 W. Montrose St., Clermont

Groveland Farmer’s Market 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Lake David Park, Groveland

Plaid in the Park 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

230 W. 4th Ave., Mount Dora

Eustis Classic Car Cruise-In 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Downtown Eustis

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LOCAL TALENT

PEO PLE

A BRUSH WITH DESTINY Kelley Batson-Howard: ‘I find my soul while painting, and it’s never too late to start.’

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

elf-taught and a fulltime Eustis artist, Kelley BatsonHoward passionately puts her heart and soul into painting, something that had been on hold for 55 years.

“At 18, I was the bohemian, rebellious girl who would have bounced off to Paris to live and become an artist without giving it a second thought,” she says.

However, after being transplanted to Central Florida in the late 1980s, her creativity was put on hold, and she immersed in the family commercial greenhouse business for nearly 40 years.

Kelley recalls life changes in 2017 allowed her to reconnect with her bohemian artist spirit, leading her to embrace her “soul’s purpose.”

“Daily, I go to my studio where I get to create those pictures that have been living in my head for years,” she says. “I get to see how the paints react on the canvas; how they react with each other, and the textures and patterns they create by adding different mediums along the way. I get to stay with it until the picture in my head shows up on the canvas. With experimentation as my art teacher, I have the benefit of being free of the rules and experimenting until it feels right to me.”

In addition to painting at her Eustis studio, Kelley is pursuing a yearlong residency at Leesburg Center for the

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL Arts, where she is “widening my horizons” three days a week, working in oils and cold wax, which she finds fascinating to do.

“The medium is a beeswax concoction that you mix with the oil paint, and it gives it lots of heavy texture,” says Kelley.

“It dries quicker than a regular oil. You can do layer after layer and make all kinds of textures and marks, and I love to do that.”

The award-winning artist’s works have been showcased in several galleries, restaurants, and local wineries throughout Florida.

Kelley was a solo pop-up artist for Lake County Museum of Art’s 25th anniversary, and she recently had a Leesburg Center of the Arts’ solo show at the Lincoln Plaza in Leesburg.

For 2022, Kelley’s works are on exhibit at Artscape through May in Orlando; Visual Arts Center National Art Exhibition through April 16 in Punta Gorda; a Pop-Up at the PAC in Ormond Beach through April 19; and an online exhibit at Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Her advice to others interested in dabbling in art: “Follow it and do it now. Don’t wait. Trust God. For every day that you don’t do it, you’re losing a day of happiness in the way that you should live your life to be happy and to bless others with your happiness.”

Do you know of a talented person in our community?

Email their story to theresa@akersmediagroup.com

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ATTRACTIONS

CR AF TS

Crafting magic Once Upon A Creation offers creative outlet in Clermont.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

Cathylee Morales

nce upon a time there was a mother of two, who lost her job and didn’t know what to do. Bills were piling up and the future looked bleak, until she stepped out in faith, and followed her dreams.

In 2017, Cathylee Morales had just given birth to her second child when she lost her job as a marketing consultant. Her husband, Jesus Morales, told her to focus on being a mom and hold down the fort at home for a while, but his job’s slow summer months took extra time to get back to normal after Hurricane Irma. This took a financial toll on their family.

“We were hurting and I knew I needed to do something,” Cathylee says. “My whole life I have loved crafts and that year, my parents bought me a Cameo silhouette vinyl cutter. I started with that in a small room under our stairs, making things like T-shirts, tumblers, and other craft items.”

Cathylee offered her creations on social media and soon she outgrew her little room under the stairs and took over the garage. Once Upon A Creation was born.

“I was becoming the entrepreneur I’d always wanted to be,” Cathylee says.

As a huge Disney fan, Cathylee wanted her products to be magical, whimsical, and a special experience for all involved. She began offering mobile do-it-yourself projects at events, churches, and home parties to bring her creations to life.

“Crafting is like making magic happen,” Cathylee says. “Business continued to grow and orders kept coming in, but when COVID hit in 2020, all the events got wiped out.”

Cathylee then had to make another leap of faith if she wanted to succeed.

An opportunity to own her own studio arose and she decided to take it.

Although it was a small 300-foot warehouse space, this gave her the boost she needed to make more products and bring in enough funds for the studio she is in today.

Cathylee saw how other local crafters and artists were struggling to make a dollar, especially during the pandemic, so she came up with the collaborative idea to offer classes at her studio led by local artisans to help grow their businesses too.

Local chef Jessica Gagliano was working at Disney World when the pandemic hit, and she made the switch to full-time mom. She met Cathylee and their ideas meshed so they decided to team up by offering cooking and decorating classes at the studio.

HI, SOCIETY!

Evelyn, Josephine, Catherine and Josh White, Michael Holland (Eustis Mayor), Deborah White, Marie Bogdonoff, Katheryn Wilgus, Danielle Stroud, and Paul Imnordino

Lisa Jones

Loretta Forlaw

Johnny Nave, John Sokol (Great Chicago Fire and Brewery & The Warehouse), Marie Bogdonoff (Founder and CEO The Villagers for Veterans) and LCL Yolanda Frasier (Ret)

SPECIA L GROU N DBREA K ING

CL Dr. Peter M. Tan (Ret) and LCL Yolanda Frasier (Ret)

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@ EUSTIS ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL. Villagers for Veterans and Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter teamed up for the groundbreaking ceremony of Ashley’s House, 2259 Grove St., Eustis, which will be a transitional group home for female veterans. The house is named in memory of First Lieutenant Ashley White-Stumpf, 24, who was killed by an improvised explosive device during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2011. “Our partnership with Villagers for Veterans on the Ashley’s House project is a way for us to support our female veterans when they need us most,” says Danielle Stroud, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter.

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

Danielle Stroud, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Lake and Sumter

E 'S WHER ?!

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HI, SOCIETY!

Chuck Hiott and Kedir Felix

Emily Gaulin, Jazmin Felix, and Jose Rodriguez

Maria DeSousa and Denisse Bliss

Steve Jennelle and Bert King

DSC_7559

GET TI NG T O K NOW YOU

@ TAVARES ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL. Kenkay Solar, 413 E. Alfred St., Tavares, was the site of a meet-and-greet during the Tavares Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours gathering and ribbon-cutting ceremony in February. The Tavares business community and guests were treated to door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks from Kenkay Solar employees. The locally owned company provides commercial and residential solar systems.

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Erika Buigas and Deanna McKay

E 'S WHER ?!

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NO COST BIRTH CONTROL Are you a woman of childbearing age?

If so, you may qualify to receive free care including routine labs and birth control.

If you qualify, you will be compensated for your time.

352.787.1535 Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC Doug Moffett, MD | Michelle Wood, MD

Erin Faulkner, Jacqueie Peterson, and Mandy Deal Ryan Piknuis, Dr. Aaron Pazik, Sandra Vela, and Renee Lowe Chuck Gainsford and Erik Helfriecs

Robert Pregitzer and JP Hare

E 'S WHER ?!

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Gigi Capria and Rich Capria

Jonathan Quiceno and Brittney Baboolal

Pam Serviss and Debbie Flinn

TURNING BACK THE CLOCK @ CLERMONT HISTORIC VILLAGE ≈ PHOTOS: PAUL PENDERS. Guests were invited to dress up as their favorite historical figure and “party like it’s 1889” at the South Lake Chamber of Commerce’s February 10th Business After Hours hosted by the South Lake Business Leaders at the Clermont Historic Village Museum, 490 West Ave., Clermont. The festive event featured tasty foods, chocolate and champagne fountains, a candy bar, a charcuterie table, music, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes, a costume contest, and a scavenger hunt throughout the Village for guests to enjoy.

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

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HI, SOCIETY!

AdventHealth Waterman is elevating cancer care with state-ofthe-art technology and treatment, groundbreaking research and the only NAPBC-accredited program in Lake County, providing the highest quality care for patients with breast disease. Our breast health experts are here for you every step of the way, from early detection to survivorship and everything in between.

Schedule an appointment and nd lear learn LeadingBreastCare.com. more at LeadingBreastCar

PRESENTING SPONSOR

FUNDRAISER: FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2022 EXHIBIT: APRIL 9 - MAY 28, 2022 The Lake County Museum of Art (LCMA) presents Dali on the Lake featuring the traveling exhibit, Homage to Dante, (a series of signed prints of Salvador Dali's Illustrations for the

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Divine Comedy) on loan from The Park West Foundation. The exhibit will run April 9 May 28, 2022. LCMA is open Thursday - Saturday 12 noon - 4pm.

Friday, April 8, 2022 from 6pm-9pm will be a ticketed fundraising reception featuring Dali’s Homage to Dante, as well as several original pieces on loan from local collectors.

Tickets for the fundraiser are available through our website, www.LakeArtMuseum.com, at the museum, or from a Board Member. Join us for music, appetizers, beverages and, of course, Dali!

ALBERT G. ECKIAN, M.D.

213 W Ruby Street, Tavares, FL 32778 | 352.483.2900 | www.LakeArtMuseum.com | Museum hours: 12 noon - 4pm Thursday-Saturday

LAKE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART PROMOTES ART EDUCATION TO BUILD CULTURE AND ENRICH OUR COMMUNITY

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menu FOOD. DRINKS. REVIEWS.

Nautilus Coffee Co in Tavares offers cupfuls of flavor with a touch of fantasy and adventure.

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IN THE KITCHEN

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REVIEW

AN ADVENTURE AWAITS Nautilus Coffee Co steps back in time to create the perfect java experience.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

ne of Lake County’s hottest new coffee shops is quickly becoming the talk of the town. Nautilus Coffee Co. in downtown Tavares not only offers artisanal drinks and a signature coffee bar, but it is wrapped up in adventure with a complete fictional backstory for guests to experience.

Created by Howey-in-the-Hills residents Hillary and David Perry, the shop is so intricately designed that even the trinkets on the wall are a piece of the story.

“We wanted to create a place for people to escape,” David says. “A lot has changed in the world. The reason people go to theme parks is to experience something different. We are often compared to a theme park experience and that was on purpose. We wanted to bring that same themed environment without people having to go to Orlando.”

Their adventure began when Hillary decided she was ready for a career change.

She was a teacher in Orange County for 15 years, which was great as she raised her child, but she was ready for something new and challenging.

“When teaching went virtual during the pandemic, it gave me a lot of time to think about what I wanted to do next,” Hillary says. “In 2010, I had wanted to open a coffee shop, but we didn’t have enough capital. Twelve years later it seemed to be the perfect time to try again.”

Nautilus was the name of the submarine in one of David and Hillary’s favorite books, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” This nautical theme can be seen throughout the coffee shop.

David, who owns a construction company, has done work with theme park companies and worked closely with creative directors to design the perfect themed environments. Needless to say, he’s had plenty of experience in adventure.

The couple began brainstorming and came up with a creative idea for Nautilus Coffee Company. The backstory is of the Nautilus family and how they came about establishing a coffee company. The story shows themes of woman empowerment, the importance of blue-collar jobs, and life in the 1900’s.

The story drives the entire experience at Nautilus Coffee Co. The trinkets on the wall have stories of where they were collected on the Nautilus’ family

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IN THE KITCHEN

THE NAUTILUS FAMILY STORY Sparking with turn-of-the-century sophistication, Nautilus Coffee Co. is the standing legacy of a remarkable family’s thirst for adventure. First opened as Nautilus Iron Works, the eclectic workspace was built by savvy and scrappy Henry Nautilus and his brilliant wife Jane, an ambitious engineer who dreamed of discovery. The two quickly established themselves in the iron industry. With Jane in charge of build and Henry in charge of business, they found continued success selling spectacular travel vessels, which funded their own worldly expeditions.

As time went on, their business grew, and so did their family. Enthralled by the excitement always swirling in the workshop, the three Nautilus daughters (Hazel, Poppy, and Ruth) soon shared the same cunning and curiosity as their mother. Called to pursue a great family adventure, the Nautilus women set out to build a revolutionary submarine to explore the uncharted depths of the sea.

The women worked day and night in the workshop. They tirelessly researched, drafted, mapped, and built as Henry would serve them many magnificent

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blends of coffee from beans he and Jane had acquired from their past travels.

The workspace’s spirit of innovation and the bountiful boosts from the delicious coffee beans kept the women fueled and focused. After many years and many cups of coffee, the groundbreaking submarine, the argonaut was built, and the building was left alone as the Nautilus family went away on their grand voyage.

Decades later, the current generation of the Nautilus family has transformed Nautilus Iron Works into Nautilus Coffee Co. Though the shop has been upgraded with the current luxuries of today, most of the space has been preserved with the family’s blueprints, models, notes, and travel trinkets to inspire the explorer in everyone who stops by.

Honoring the family legacy, Nautilus Coffee Co serves the rich and worldly coffee creations that energized the Nautilus family in their pursuit of adventure, so guests can fuel up for their own!

adventures, the ironworks facility can be seen high in the rafters and there are even secret novelties like touching something to make the crane hook move or making the industrial coffee cart blow steam.

The coffee cart was handbuilt by David, engineered with an industrial theme, and was originally designed to be mobile.

However, after completing it, the couple found it was too heavy to drag around so it became the barista bar at the restaurant.

“During Covid, we worked with a design firm to create our theme, logo, storyboards and even incorporated our theme into our menu,” David says. “In keeping with our theme, we also incorporated sea planes being that Tavares is ‘America’s Sea Plane City.’”

Even the music played sets the scene.

“We like to interact with the people,” Hillary says. “We hand-make all our drinks which sometimes takes a little longer so we encourage people to read the story, examine the trinkets or find how to make the crane hook move.

We’ve found that people really like these things.”

Their menu consists of standard “brewed for adventure” coffees like doppio, Cubano, cappuccino, drip, latte, and mocha. Their popular Voyager’s mocha is served hot or iced with mocha drizzle, sea salt caramel, a double shot of espresso, milk and homemade whipped cream with caramel drizzle on top.

Non-dairy and sugar-free options are available. They also

David and Hillary Perry

“WE WANTED TO CREATE A PLACE FOR PEOPLE TO ESCAPE.” — D AV I D P E R RY

offer regular cold brew, nitro cold brew, and a Voyager’s style cold brew. The three daughters in the Nautilus’ family story even have their own drink.

The Hazel is a shaken double shot espresso with hazelnut, cinnamon, and oat milk. Ruth’s Matcha Tea latte is an organic matcha with a little vanilla, poured over ice or steamed milk. Poppy Coffee Soda is a unique creation of cold brew, soda water and vanilla, something that Hillary says is only for those true cold brew fans.

They also make their own energy soda with tropical elixirs including the

Submarine Dream (wild berry, pineapple and coconut), De La Isla (passion fruit, coconut and peach), Red Sky at Night (lavender, huckleberries and a splash of lemon), Trailblazer (passion fruit, strawberry and watermelon), Land, Ho! (wild berry, green apple and kiwi) and Dolce Sole (passion fruit, orange and vanilla).

Each month, the brew crew comes up with a special Uncharted Waters menu for specialty drinks. Some of their popular ones include Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup latte, Oreo latte, brown sugar

cinnamon chai latte, Samoa’s coconut caramel macchiato, pistachio Rose latte, strawberry lemonade, caramel brûlée latte, snickers latte, Nutella latte, cold brew with peanut butter cold foam and peach tea or lemonade. Check back each month to see what is on their specialty menu.

“We want this to be truly a unique experience,” Hillary says. “I always say I’m like the daytime bar. We get to know our customers and we know when grandma is sick or how their child is doing in school. It’s become a family.”

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

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FORK ON THE ROAD

REVIEW

FARMSHED FRESH Villages diner delights with from scratch, tasty meals, using locally-sourced ingredients that enhance every dish.

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

hether it’s because of the great service, fresh, beautifully prepared dishes, or a choice between lounge, formal dining room, patio, and bar seating for all guests, the Farmshed diner has made quite an impression since opening its doors nearly one year ago.

“The Villages doesn’t have a restaurant like this, it really doesn’t,” says Villager Cynthia Teichert, at Farmshed with her husband Carlos Teichert for at least the 10th time since it opened in May 2021.

“We’ve had almost everything on the menu and everything we’ve had is delicious, plus you cannot beat this place for freshness and good pricing,” she adds.

≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL Carlos says the grilled ribeye steak, the lamb burger, and the shrimp and grits are just a few of his favorite dishes.

“Everything I’ve had here, I’ve liked,” Carlos says, explaining that he was pleased to see Farmshed, versus another chain restaurant, take over the space TooJay’s vacated following the pandemic.

According to Manager Naomi Torres, the owner’s vision for Farmshed involved setting the scene for a fine dining experience, while still maintaining the Villages’ fun and casual spirit.

At the same time, the Farmshed helps local farmers by incorporating a farm-to-table concept, which means most of the ingredients used in the kitchen by the chefs to prepare the dishes they serve, come directly from the farmer, without going through a store, market, or distributor along the way.

Naomi says everything is made fresh, and nothing is ever frozen.

She says the vegetables come from The Villages Grown and the meats from Florida Ranchers.

Additionally, everything on the menu can be made to accommodate gluten free, dairy free, and vegetarian diets. And the steaks are cut in-house, before undergoing a 45-day dry aging process.

“To us, it’s all about the overall experience, so from start to finish, we do everything we can to make sure the food we serve and the service we give, are the absolute best,” Naomi says.

“People come in here with a smile, but we make sure they leave with a full belly and an even bigger smile. If they’re not satisfied, we’re not satisfied.”

Chef Lisa Mallory, who works at expertly preparing all the food each day alongside Chef Brion Brown, says their meats contain no additives, and even the veggie burgers, made from a recipe using all fresh vegetables, are prepared at least twice weekly because they sell out so quickly.

“My goal is getting the highest quality food, preparing it using the highest standards, and having every dish

Chef Brion Brown and Chef Lisa Mallory

looking absolutely beautiful when it comes out,” says Chef Lisa.

With that, the restaurant’s menu is split into unique categories starting with “Starter” and “Really Big” Farmshed Greens (aka salads), including the Crunchy Coldwater Fresh that Style Photographer Nicole Hamel and I tried and loved.

The menu describes it as “Tail in cold shrimp, tomatoes, cucumber, mixed baby lettuce, bell peppers, and house made Florida citrus vinaigrette,” but it was Naomi’s description that made it impossible for us to resist.

“Between the colors and the flavors in this, it’ll literally have all your taste buds and senses jumping,” Naomi says, and she was right.

Nicole and I enjoyed every bite, and were almost too full for our entrees – the Double Trouble Bacon Benny Burger, a local rancher beef burger, topped with a double helping of griddled bacon, a fried egg and citrus aioli from the Hand Made Burgers section of the menu with a side of beets, and ‘Bama Fried Chicken from the Meat Locker section, which consists of fried-to-perfection chicken thighs, spicy Alabama white sauce and Mississippi comeback sauce with a side of roasted potatoes.

Meanwhile, the Farmer’s Daughter Mac and Cheese, located in The Southern Farmer, or appetizer part of the menu, and the Eggs and Sawmill Gravy on Biscuits, off the Farmshed Lunch Only Features we saw being served to guests at tables near us, had us notating what we may want to order the next time.

The diner also sports a full bar featuring an array of

“MY GOAL IS GETTING THE HIGHEST QUALITY FOOD, PREPARING IT USING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS, AND HAVING EVERY DISH LOOKING ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WHEN IT COMES OUT.” — C H E F L I S A M A L L O RY

Manager Naomi Torres

handcrafted signature cocktails, one of the best reserve wine lists in the area, and from-scratch desserts that include treats like orange pecan Bundt cake and a killer banana pudding.

Diners Susan and Thomas Fink, say they were not only impressed by the Farmshed’s food and spirits, but by the atmosphere, and most of all, that they accept reservations.

“The atmosphere was very attractive, the food was great, and the staff was friendly,” Susan says, adding that they like how the white linen tablecloths in the main dining area give the entire place a classy look. “We will definitely be returning, especially since we can make reservations ahead of the busier times for eating out around here.”

IF YOU GO

THE FARMSHED DINER 990 Del Mar Dr., The Villages Hours: Monday through Saturday 11:30 to 9 p.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information or to make reservations, call 352.775.2119 or visit farmsheddiner.com.

Let’s do lunch or dinner Tell us about a great restaurant by emailing roxanne@akersmediagroup.com

ROXANNE BROWN

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DINING GUIDE

dine

OUT

From classic diners and lakeside restaurants to fine dining and everything in-between, Lake County’s culinary scene is booming. Your favorite meal is sure to be served with a side of hospitality.

Denotes locations where you can find Lake & Sumter Style

A S TAT U L A Race Car Diner 25641 Monroe St. 352.253.6940 ASTOR Blackwater Inn 55716 Front St. 352.759.3802 Castaways Restaurant 23525 US SR 40 352.759.2213 Sparky’s Place Restaurant 24646 SR 40 352.759.3551 Williams Landing 55716 Front St. 352.759.2802 BUSHNELL Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 2586 W CR 48 352.568.7000 Darryl’s Diner 2237 W CR 48 352.444.2318 Howie’s Family Restaurant 840 N. Main St. 352.793.8582 TJ’s Family Restaurant 412 W. Belt Ave 352.793.8877 CLERMONT Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988

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Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W. Montrose St. 352.404.9431

Legends Grille & Tavern 1700 Legendary Blvd.

352.243.1118

Uncle Kenny’s BBQ 157 Hwy. 27 352.394.1225

Clermont Brewing Co. 750 W Desoto 321.430.2337

Lilly’s on the Lake 846 W. Osceola St. 352.708.6565

EUSTIS

Corelli’s Italian Restaurant 1042 E. Hwy. 50 352.989.5924

Oakwood Smokehouse & Grill 230 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.394.0036

Crooked Spoon Gastropub 200 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.404.7808

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

Devenney’s Irish Pub 16909 High Grove Blvd.

352.432.3925 El Cerro Restaurant 811 W. Hwy. 50 352.241.9884 Friar Tuck 16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd.

352.404.6818 G’s NY Pizza 12346 Roper Blvd.

352.243.8900

Root and Branch Bistro and Bar 1200 Seaver Dr. 352.708.4529 Sanctuary Ridge Bar & Grille 2601 Diamond Club Road 352.243.0411 Sarah’s Greek Cuisine & More 16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd., Ste. 305 352.404.8031

Gators Dockside 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.242.1825

Southern on 8th Kitchen & Bar 801 W. Montrose St. 352.394.7777

Goomba’s Pizzeria 2395 S. Hwy 27 352.989.4403

The Outpouring Coffee 2560 E. Hw.y 50 352.989.4406

Green Mountain Pizza 303 Hwy. 50 352.432.3380

Troy’s Cuban Deli 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.241.4295

Guru Restaurant 2400 S. Hwy. 27 352.241.9884

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The Crazy Gator 402 N. Bay St. 352.589.5885 The Oyster Troff 936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939

JB Boondocks Bar & Grill 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd.

352.324.3600

Tillie’s Tavern & Grill 31 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.602.7929

La Hacienda Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.3910

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

Nicker’s Clubhouse Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.2718

F RU I T L A N D PA R K

L A DY L A K E

Fruitland Park Café 3180 US Hwy. 441/27 352.435.4575 ibar-be-que Express 3170 Hwy. 27 352.315.4227 Legends Cafe 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.728.0006 Mystic Ice Cream 1217 W. Miller Blvd.

352.812.1366

Jeannie’s Place 209 E. Gottsche Ave. 352.359.0027

NY Deli N Diner 3325 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.365.0051

Gators Dockside 15241 US Hwy 441 352.357.1255

Rae Rae’s Restaurant 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.323.1595

Kiku Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 15211 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.483.8288

Stavro’s 3223 US Hwy. 441 352.315.0028

LaCabana Mexican Bar and Grill 2060 S. Bay St. 352.357.4600 Nalan Sultan Mediterranean Grill 1 N. Eustis St. 352.357.4444 NightOwl Caribbean Restaurant 929 S. Bay St. 352.589.0256 Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W. CR 44 352.589.9100 Taki’s Pizza House 2824 S. Bay St. 352.357.0022 Thai Sushi America 925 N. Bay St. 352.357.1949

H OW EY- I N THE -HILLS

The Rose Plantation 200 Rose Ave., Fruitland Park 352.805.4340 G R OV E L A N D Coyote Rojo 214 W. Broad St. 352.557.8999 Ikaho Sushi Japanese Restaurant 7965 SR 50, #900 352.557.8988 James Barbeque 262 W. Orange St. 352.557.4050 Lil Anthony’s Pizza 7965 SR 50 352.429.7499 Red Wing Restaurant 12500 S. SR 33 352.429.2997

Bamboo Bistro 700 Hwy. 441 352.750.9998 El Ranchito 1 Lagrande Blvd.

352.750.3335 Harbor Hills Country Club 6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000 Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 504 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.753.2722 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 Breakfast Station 2229 Citrus Blvd.

352.315.0291 Brooklyn’s Pizzeria 27405 US Highway 27 352.728.2020 Coffee Snob 1101 W. North Blvd.

352.460.4570 Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442 Donut King 708 S. 14th St. 352.805.4888 El Ranchito Restaurant 911 W. North Blvd.

352.314.9339 Frank’s Place 201 N. 1st St. 352.323.1989

Gator Bay Bar & Grill 10320 CR 44 352.365.2177 God Café 300 W. Main St. 352.801.7447 Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia St. 352.474.2739 HP Grill 1403 S. 14th St. 352.314.0006 Ichiban Buffet 10301 Hwy. 441 352.728.6669 Kountry Kitchen 1008 W. Dixie Ave. 352.323.0852 La Palma Mexican Grill 1690 Citrus Blvd.

352.323.1444 Lilly’s Super Subs 2339 CR 473 352.343.4663 Magnolia’s Oyster Bar 201 W. Magnolia St. 352.323.0093 Main Street Cantina 205 W. Main St. 352.435.7279 Mamma Mia Pizza 755 North 14th St. 352.326.0101 Mammoth Oak Brewing Company 1107 W. North Blvd.

352.326.0100 Mrs. T’s Place, Southern Restaurant 305 Pine St. 352.431.3217 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. 27 352.435.4633 Pine Street Bar-B-Que 408 Pine St. 352.728.1293 Plantation Oaks Restaurant 4720 Plantation Blvd.

352.530.2680 Ramshackle Café 1317 N. 14th St. 352.365.6565

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 US Hwy. 27 352.319.8093 San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant 1337 S. 14th St. 352.805.4174 Sully’s Smokehouse 10820 CR 44 352.483.7427 Takis Pizza Restaurant 1205 N. 14th St. 352.787.2344 The Florida Porch Café 706 W. Main St. 352.365.1717 The Brick & Barrel Public House 209 W. Main St. 352.431.3069 The Mojo Grill & Catering Co. 9925 US-441 352.787.0494 The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd.

352.805.4250 Turners 114 S. 5th St. 352.530.2274 Wings Ranch Restaurant & Bar 10601 US 441, C12 352.901.6193 Wolfy’s 918 N. 14th St. 352.787.6777

MOUNT DORA

Shiva Indian Restaurant 140A W. 5th Ave. 352.735.4555

Lake Dora Sushi & Sake 227 E. Main St. 352.343.6313

Chengs Chinese Restaurant 4050 Wedgewood Ln. 352.391.9678

Palmer Legends Country Club 1635 Palmer Way 352.750.4499

The Mason Jar 37534 State Rd. 19 352.589.2535

Anthony’s Pizza 17195 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.357.6668

Lake House Bar & Grill 315 N. Highland St. 352.735.7433

Mary’s Kountry Kitchen 15945 CR 448 352.343.6823

China Gourmet III 343 Colony Blvd 352.750.4965

RedSauce 1000 Canal St. 352.750.5272

W I L DWO O D

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

Sugarboo’s Bar-B-Que 1305 N. Grandview St. 352.735.7675

O’Keefe’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 115 S Rockingham Ave. 352.343.2157

Chop House at Lake Sumter 1045 Old Camp Rd. 352.750.6000

Ricciardi’s Italian Table 3660 Kiessel Rd. 352.391.9939

Evans Prairie Country Club 1825 Evans Prairie Trail 352.750.2225

Sakura 265 Colony Blvd.

352.205.7393

1921 Mount Dora 142 E. Fourth Ave. 352.385.1921

Beauclaire Restaurant at Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. 352.383.4101 Café Gianni 425 N. Alexander St. 352.735.3327 Cody’s on 4th Cafe 111 E. 4th Ave. 352.735.8426 Copacabana Cuban Cafe 320 Dora Drawdy Way 352.385.9000 Fiesta Grande 421 N. Baker St. 352.385.3540 Frog & Monkey English Pub 411 N. Donnelly St. 352. 383.1936 Highland Street Café 185 S. Highland St. 352.383.1446 Jeremiah’s 500 N. Highland St. 352.383.7444

MASCOTTE

J.K. Thai Garden 116 E. 5th Ave. 352.385.4700

Napoli’s Pizzeria 556 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.7500

Let’s Do Lunch 426 N. Donnelly St. 352.735.4577

Rainbow Restaurant 704 E. Myers Blvd.

352.429.2093

Magical Meat Boutique 322 N. Alexander St. 352.729.6911

MINNEOLA Lil Anthony’s Pizza 205 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.1516 Minneola Grill 117 W. Washington St. 352.394.2555 Napoli’s Pizzeria 556 Hwy. 27 352.243.7500 The Surf Bar and Grill 650 N. Hwy. 27 202.527.0100 Tiki Bar & Grill 508 S. Main Ave. 352.394.2232

Mount Dora Pizza & Subs 2718 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 352.383.5303 Olive Branch Grille 115 W. 3rd St. 352.729.6734 One Flight Up 440 N. Donnelly St., Ste. 100 352.735.1446 Pisces Rising 239 W. 4th Ave. 352.385.2669 PizzAmore’ 722 E. 5th Ave. 352.383.0092

The Bavarian Haus 433 N. Alexander St. 352.735.8387 The Country Club 1900 Country Club Blvd.

352.735.2263 The Goblin Market 331-B Donnely St. 352.735.0059 The Pizza Shop 925 E. First Ave. 352.735.3411 Vincent’s Italian Restaurant 5914 Orange Blossom Trl. 352.735.4578

Puddle Jumpers 111 W Ruby St. 352.508.5862 Ruby Street Grille 221 E. Ruby St. 352.742.7829 Sunrise Grill 462 E. Burleigh Blvd.

352.343.7744 Tavares Ice Cream 214 E. Main 352.508.5342 The Hideaway 11912 Lane Park Rd. 352.343.3585

Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill 297 Colony Blvd 352.751.0400

The Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille 925 Lakeshore Dr. 352.753.7800

Giovanni’s 3439 Wedgewood Lane 352.751.6674

Tierra Del Sol Country Club 806 San Marino Dr. 352.753.8005

Glenview County Club 3914 Glenview Rd. 352.753.0077 Habaneros Mexican Grill 3551 Wedgewood Ln. 352.633.2080

Whale’s Tale Fish House 2720 W. Old U.S. Hwy 441 352.385.1500

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

Hemingway’s at Havana Country Club 2484 Odell Circle 352.430.3200

OX F O R D

THE V I L L AG E S

Pho Saigon 11707 N. US Hwy. 301 352.492.9423

Amelia’s 1105 Lake Shore Drive 352.750.8265

Legacy Restaurant 17135 Buena Vista Blvd.

352.753.1475

SORRENTO

Amerikano’s Grill 998 Del Mar Dr. 352.633.8027

Del Franco’s Pizza 31436 CR 437 352.383.8882 Lisa’s Kountry Cafe 23911 CR 46 352.735.3380 TAVA R E S Bella Nona Pizzeria 280 Silverado St. 352.508.9370 BTW (Burgers, Tacos & Waffles) 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 Kalua Hale Beach Bar 181 S. Joanna Ave. 352.609.5910

Belle Glade Country Club 446 Moyer Loop 352.205.8208 BlueFin Grill & Bar 2738 Brownwood Blvd.

352.571.5344 Cane Garden Country Club 1726 Bailey Trail 352.750.0627

Margarita Republic 1102 Main St. 352.753.4600 Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant and Bar 320 Colony Blvd.

352.753.3824

VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887 Wolfgang Puck Kitchen + Bar 3003 Brownwood Blvd.

352.626.1500 U M AT I L L A Combat Café 831 S Central Ave. 352.483.0250 Fish & Chix 100 N. Central Ave. 352.669.7145 Gators of Umatilla LLC 9 N. Central Ave. 352.669.6969

China Jade 420 W. CR 44 352.330.5913 Continental Country Club 50 Continental Blvd.

352.748.3293 Cotillion Southern Café 101 N. Main St. 352.748.1223 Los Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 346 Shopping Center Dr. 352.461.0577 Marco’s Pizza 5806 Seven Mile Dr. Ste. 101 352.571.2400 O’Shucks! Oyster Bar and Grill 1016 S Main St. 352.399.2200 Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 2468 Burnsed Blvd., 352.626.1059 Traditions Café 3107 Hwy. 44 352.748.1077 Woody’s Bar-B-Q 1220 S. Main St. 352.748.1109

Greg’s Haystax 526 Umatilla Blvd.

352.669.1555

NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln 352.750.1994

Old Crow Real Pit Bar-B-Q 41100 SR 19 352.669.3922

Orange Blossom Country Club 1542 Water Tower Circle 352.751.4501

Shang Hai Restaurant 531 N. Central Ave. 352.669.2004

GOOD GRUB

THIS MONTH'S EDITOR'S PICK

The Brick & Barrel Public House Leesburg enjoys its moniker of the Lakefront City, but Lake County’s second-largest city promises great dining, too. One of the more popular destinations is The Brick & Barrel Public House, nestled in downtown Leesburg. The diverse menu features a little of everything—from firecracker shrimp and bacon onion dip as appetizers to flatbreads, hand-cut steaks, and seafood as entrees. Diners are always impressed with the consistent service, smiling employees, and culinary creativity.

911 W. North Blvd., Leesburg / 352.314.9339

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DINING GUIDE

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.

La Palma Mexican Grill

Monday through Saturday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday Noon to 6 p.m.

Open Daily 11am–9pm

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.

AK! Call for daily specials.

BWWAA

Lunch Specials 11am–3pm

Margarita Mondays!

Enjoy $5 margaritas all day every Monday.

’clock It’s five ohere! somew

Marco’s Pizza 5806 SEVEN MILE DRIVE SUITE 101, WILDWOOD 352.571.2400 | MARCOS.COM The most delicious dishes are made with lots of love. That’s certainly the case at Marco’s Pizza, which is owned by business partners Peter Hiles and Roger Mellen. They opened the restaurant last April off County Road 466A in Wildwood and already have plans to open five additional locations. And why not? Everyone loves pizza, but they appreciate a quality pizza much more.

At Marco’s Pizza, everything is made daily, including the dough and sauce. In other words, everything is fresh and never frozen. The popular three-cheese blend is another aspect that makes the pizza so satisfying. Marco’s Pizza also offers calzones, specialty pizza bowls, subs, salads, and wings. Expect to always be welcomed by a warm, friendly staff whether you dine inside the restaurant or call for delivery.

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Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Wednesday-Sunday 4pm-9pm Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Full Gluten-Free Menu

Open Daily 11am-9pm

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.

Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes.

The “healthy” alternative to fast food.

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

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DINING GUIDE

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 grilled scallops, half-roasted duck with sweet potato mash, rack of lamb, and crab cakes with cauliflower puree, black bean, corn relish, and key-lime avocado crema. 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 small parties. Four additional dining rooms will be added within one year.

Wings Ranch 10601 U.S. HIGHWAY 441, LEESBURG | 352.901.6193 The Wings Ranch restaurant, located at 10601 U.S. Highway 441, in the Publix shopping plaza near Lake Square Mall, is known for its cool western vibe and chicken wings Slavko Grguric has perfected over the years, but there’s more!

The menu includes international and unique food selections like Schnitzel and Chevapi, an eastern-European delicacy made from pork and beef, Lobster Bisque, Fish and Chips, specialty burgers, Pork Chops, Ribeye, Prime Rib, Peel and Eat Shrimp, and a variety of from-scratch soups. The Wings Ranch also sports a full bar with happy hour every weekday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and live entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings from 4:30 p.m. to close. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Carry out and dine-in are available. For more information, menu updates, and live entertainment schedules, visit Wings Ranch on Facebook or call 352.901.6193.

Lunch: Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday Taking reservations from 4:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Open 7 Days a week: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Live Entertainment: Friday-Saturday 4:30 p.m. to close

Would you like to see your restaurant in our dining section?

CALL US AT 352.787.4112

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A trailblazer of Indian cooking Uday Kadam delights loyal customers with authentic Indian cuisine.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

magine this.

You enter a restaurant filled with beautiful Indian décor and tables with white tablecloths and linen napkins. Minutes later, a waiter brings out flatbread called Pappadam. You eat the bread with onion and mango chutney.

Next comes the main entrée, chicken tikka masala. This dish features boneless chicken pieces cooked in a Tandoor oven with tomato sauce, onion, aromatic herbs, and spices. Your mouth waters with every delicious bite.

It’s all part of the dining experience at GURU Restaurant, which has earned a stellar reputation for its authentic, award-winning Indian cuisine. In fact, the chicken tikka masala won the prestigious Best Entrée award during the South Lake Chamber of Commerce’s 2021 Taste of South Lake and Business Expo.

“Customers love our chicken tikka masala,” says owner Uday Kadam. “I make 400 of those dishes each week, and I go through 600 pounds of chicken every week.”

Uday opened the restaurant eight years ago in Clermont. Since then, he has amassed a loyal customer base that has developed cravings for dishes such as chicken korma, which is simmered in a rich cream sauce; tandoori chicken tikka, which is marinated in mild spices and yogurt; and lamb vindaloo, featuring cubes of lamb marinated in vinegar and a blend of spices.

“NOBODY LEAVES MY RESTAURANT HUNGRY.” —UDAY K A DA M

Diners don’t have to worry about Indian food’s bad rap. Uday makes it a point to turn down the spiciness if you prefer.

“People think Indian food is too spicy and greasy, and that’s true at most places,” he says. “However, I don’t go heavy on spices because it’s easier on the stomach. I give my customers choices between mild, medium, and hot.”

GURU Restaurant offers takeout, pickup, catering, and delivery services.

It’s also a popular venue for birthdays and other celebrations. An outdoor patio allows customers to breathe fresh air and follow social distancing guidelines.

“I try to make sure all my customers are happy with whatever they’re eating

or drinking,” Uday says. “We even change tablecloths on each table after a customer has finished eating. We want people to have a great overall experience here.”

Uday, who was born in India, received his first cooking job at the famous Taj Mahal Hotel. He later became director of banquets for Marriot International, a role that allowed him to hone his culinary skills in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and eventually the United States. In 1990, he opened his first restaurant, Passage to India, on Orlando’s International Drive.

“Cooking is a passion for me,” he says.

“Nobody leaves my restaurant hungry.”

352.241.9884 / 2400 S. Hwy. 27, Ste. 101, Clermont / gururestaurantclermont.com

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Live Music, Wine, Beer & Food!

Sat & Sun 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm

For More Information Visit www.LakeridgeWinery.com 19239 US 27 North • Clermont, FL 34715 • 352-394-8627 • 1-800-768-WINE

Saturday, April 23 Leesburg Bikefest is a Leesburg Partnership Event.

For more information about BikeFest 2022 event happenings and locations, please visit LeesburgBikeFest.com.

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MAGAZINE

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P EO P L E L OV E M A G A Z I N E S

PRINT 84% of what audience says they are more engaged when reading a print magazine than with any other form of content?

What % of US adults say they read magazines in the last 6 months?

18-64 YEARS OF AGE

THE HIGHEST OF ALL TIME

who regularly read one or more magazines.

This even includes 93% of those under 35 and 95% of those under 25.

(Bauer Media)

(GFK MRI)

The average time spent on a website is 2 minutes.

What is the average time spent reading a magazine?

(Digital First Content Marketing: the Return of Print - CMO by adobe, 2016)

Of all media, which do US internet users say they trust the most?

69%

61% 25% POP UP ADS

SEARCH

71%

OUTDOOR

76%

RADIO

PRINT ADS

(Nielsen Catalina Solutions, 2015)

80%

CATALOGUES

82%

With a $3.94 return for every $1 spent, a full 50% higher than the $2.63 average ROI from digital display and more than double the $1.52 from digital video.

TV ADS

When more than 1,400 US advertisers were asked which medium offers the highest ROI, which was on top?

MINUTES

(Marketing Sherpa, 2017)

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(FORBES)

FINAL THOUGHT

CO MMENTARY

The joke’s on me How April Fool’s Day was forever ruined..

STORY: ROXANNE BROWN

hen April 1 comes around, and I hear of people pranking one another, I just wince.

Since childhood, I haven’t been able to really play a joke on anyone.

I don’t like the planning process, and it’s not worth all the trouble for a moment of laughter at someone else’s expense.

Who am I kidding? I love pranking people, or at least I used to. It’s totally satisfying when a prank goes as planned, completely baffles, and successfully scares the bejesus out of someone, which is why I am completely scarred for life.

Let me rewind a little, so you’ll understand…

I, about 10, and my little sister, about three years younger than me, decided we’d scare our parents.

We thought of hiding somewhere, then popping out at the perfect moment, but the waiting time was unappealing. We also considered forging an “F” at the top of a

school assignment, or pretending my sister was hurt, which would have been easy since her alligator tears were notorious for getting me into trouble, but those pranks seemed boring.

Instead, we decided on utilizing an old alarm clock we had, that when triggered, let out the most annoying, loud chirping sound.

My sister and I set it for like 4 a.m., moved our parents’ dresser, and hid the clock between it and the wall, thinking it would startle them awake, force them to get up, find it; at which time, we would run in, yell, “APRIL FOOL’S DAY,” laugh with them, and ‘Voila!’ Our elaborate, and innocent prank!

But the scenario didn’t quite unfold that way.

My sister slept with me, and waking up super early, we giggled in anticipation waiting for the thing to go off, and when it did, my parents woke up alright. For some reason, however, the alarm, maybe muffled by something, sounded faint, and almost surreal, or menacing even.

Then, my mom, with full-on morning hair, and exaggeratedly yelling, “I think it’s coming from inside the walls,” comes running into my room looking traumatized, and ushers us into the living room for safety reasons. My dad gets on the phone and summons a neighbor for help.

Finally, my sister starts bawling, then I get nervous, so I tell them it’s just the silly alarm clock we hid going off, and geez!

I thought my mom’s glare was going to kill us, and not only that, but the lasers shooting out of her eyes every time she glanced our way continued all the way through breakfast she grudgingly made us, but at least after a little while, our dad was laughing.

And sure, my mom finally got over it, and now finds it kind of funny, but the desire to pull a prank on someone, at least for me, was tarnished by my mom’s look of utter confusion, then her searing glare, both forever cemented in my brain.

With that, you can be certain you’ll never be purposely scared by me!

Hey, readers! Is there a particular subject that you would like me to write a commentary about? Tell me, via email, at roxanne@akersmediagroup.com

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L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M • A P R ' 2 2

ROXANNE BROWN

“Celebrating the first time I could sit criss cross in years! And it was only a few weeks after surgery!”

T O TA L K N E E R E P L A C E M E N T PAT I E N T S U C C E S S S T O R Y

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– Sherry D. | 54 Years Old

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