WHAT’S NEW IN 2020
As counties grow, major projects are changing the landscape. JAN '20
L AKE, SUMTER & VILLAGE
forty FE ATURIN G
Top professionals who are crushing it in their fields across Lake and Sumter counties.
40
Tyler Brandeburg, 25 Commercial risk advisor with Brown & Brown Insurance
AL SO
SHE’S ALL HEART
Cardiologist Nitza Alvarez advocates for women’s health.
REFLECTING SOCIETY
‘Cracked Mirrors’ web series examines today’s issues.
ELEGANT ALTERNATIVE Chop House steps up to the plate in The Villages.
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8630 East CR 466, The Villages 877.346.2435 // www.IMAGELIFT.com
JAN'20 V.16
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CONTENTS 1 of 2
FEATURES
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The changing landscape The start of a new year brings a regular feature in Style, “What’s new,” which provides updates and sneak peeks at exciting projects and developments coming to the communities of Lake and Sumter counties. STORIES: JAMES COMBS, THERESA CAMPBELL, VICTORIA SCHLABIG, CHRIS GERBASI
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The south 40 Lake County is brimming with professional talent, and the “leaders of tomorrow” actually are the leaders of today. Here are 40—count ’em—professionals age 40 and under who are making a mark in their respective fields. COMPILED BY STYLE STAFF
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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 • J A N ' 2 0
Melanie Walton, owner of Four M’s Kitchen, Mount Dora
Ring in the New Year with
We Listen. We Care. We Educate. Liz Cornell, CAS®
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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352.350.1161
TBFinancialGroup.com 3261 U.S. Highway 441/27, Suite F-2 Fruitland Park, FL 34731
JAN‘20 V.16
≈ N.03
CONTENTS 2 of 2
DEPARTMENTS
first
021
agenda
THE HIT LIST 022 PERSON OF INTEREST 024 OUTSTANDING STUDENT 026 IN THE VILLAGES 028 THIS 'N' THAT 030
061
THE TO-DO LIST 062 BOOK CLUB 065 LOCAL TALENT 066 SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT 070 HI, SOCIETY! 072
menu
087
columns
IN THE KITCHEN 088 FORK ON THE ROAD 092 SPIRITS 094 DINING GUIDE 096
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FROM THE PUBLISHER 014 FINAL THOUGHT 108
108
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E ON TH R C OV E
WHAT’S NEW IN 2020
As counties grow, major projects are changing the landscape. JAN '20
L AKE, SUMTER & VILLAGE
forty FE ATURIN G
Top professionals who are crushing it in their fields across Lake and Sumter counties.
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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 • J A N ' 2 0
094
40
Tyler Brandeburg, 25 Commercial risk advisor with Brown & Brown Insurance
AL SO
SHE’S ALL HEART
Cardiologist Nitza Alvarez advocates for women’s health.
REFLECTING SOCIETY
‘Cracked Mirrors’ web series examines today’s issues.
ELEGANT ALTERNATIVE
Chop House steps up to the plate in The Villages.
Lake and Sumter Style Photo: Douglas Tyler Model: Tyler Brandeburg
Sharon Bassett, Owner/Broker HSE, SRES, MRP
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2020!
4972 NE 73RD DR., WILDWOOD STUNNING LAKE VIEW! BEAUTIFUL 3/2 Custom Waterfront Southern Plantation with 1/1 Guest Home privately nestled amongst (7) beautiful acres on LAKE DEATON. Includes; Barn and covered RV parking. $599,995
4880 NE 122ND AVE., OXFORD FAMILY FRIENDLY! Villages of Parkwood. BEAUTIFUL 3/3 open and spacious “Holly” model with circular drive, covered lanai, gourmet kitchen with granite and huge walk-in pantry, formal living and dining. $259,000
4901 NE 123RD LN., OXFORD FAMILY FRIENDLY! Villages of Parkwood. GORGEOUS 4/2.5 “Evergreen” Model. This 2-story professionally decorated home is loaded with a TON of UPGRADES and is MOVE-IN ready! Model furnishings are available separately! $249,990
12403 NE 52ND LOOP, OXFORD FAMILY FRIENDLY! Villages of Parkwood. LOVELY 4/2.5 “Evergreen” Model on a fenced private Homesite, Front covered and rear Screened Covered Lanai, Newer AC, Quartz countertops and ceramic tile floors. $244,500
1391 E CROOKED LAKE DR., EUSTIS, DYNAMITE 2/2.5 Bath Block home near Lake Nettie! Perfectly situated on a Large comer home-site with towering oaks, new roof 1/2020, enormous covered front porch, 1- 1/2 Car Garage, shed and fenced Back yard. $169,000
11200 SE SUNSET HARBOR RD., SUMMERFIELD SUPER UNIQUE! 7.2 GORGEOUS Acres with a POND and a CHARMING 1/1 Home, basement/garage, laminate floors, front enclosed Lanai by Lake Weir! $265,000.
1667 OSPREY AVE., THE VILLAGES FABULOUS VALUE! 2/2 “Colony” Patio Villa in The Village of Sunset Point. New Roof 2/2020, vaulted ceilings, inside laundry and “TURN KEY” Furnished! $209,900
15730 S HIGHWAY 25, WEIRSDALE YOU CAN ONLY IMAGINE BREATHTAKING VIEWS LIKE THIS! 3/2.5 Custom Home nestled high on the ridge. 13.49 Acres overlooking BEAUTIFUL LAKE WEIR. Registered nursery since 1997. $599,900
4305 EMMAUS RD., FRUITLAND PARK PERFECTLY REMODELED! Spacious 4/3 POOL HOME on (1) Acre Homesite. Gourmet Kitchen with granite, stainless and beautiful vinyl plank floors. $399,900
1203 W MAIN ST., LEESBURG MIXED USE COMMERCIAL! Investment Opportunity! Multi-Unit Retail on Main St. Downtown Leesburg, 2.32 Acres, Warehouse, Pole barn and room to build. $574,900
14329 SE 170TH ST., WEIRSDALE LOCATION! LOCATION! (10) Gorgeous Acres of vacant land in Royal Oaks. Let’s build your dream home and bring your animals. Surrounded by citrus trees and farms. Just minutes to Lake Weir, The Villages, Grand Oaks Resort Carriage Museum and Orange Blossom Opry. $183,500
9815 SE 173RD LN., SUMMERFIELD JUST GORGEOUS! Open and Spacious 3/2 “Dogwood” model home w/ water view. Vaulted Ceilings, laminate floors, golf car garage and MOVE IN READY! Perfectly and conveniently located in Spruce Creek South 55+ Gated Golf Community. $189,000
1-352-307-2925
BassettPremierRealty.com
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Does age matter? Yes, if you’re a young professional kicking butt in business. ge is a funny thing. It can sneak up on you quietly or it can fall on you like a ton of bricks. Think of the many expressions that apply to age: You’re only as old as you feel. Age is just a number. Age is a case of mind over matter; if you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter. Making your way in the business world used to mean biding your time, slowly climbing the corporate ladder and watching your youth fade, or maybe waiting years to save enough money to break out on your own. Not so today. About four years ago, our former Lake Business Magazine compiled “30 Under 30” profiles of successful young business professionals. This month, Lake & Sumter Style presents “40 Under 40,” so, I guess 40 is the new 30. (In the distant future, look for our special 80 Over 80 feature. Just kidding). This time around, we cast a wider net to
feature more businessmen and women in diverse fields. It’s a feature that means a little more to me because I can relate to these people. They are gogetters who have started their own companies, risen to the top of their professions or carved out unique niches in business that no one else thought of before. Newborn projects are the focus of “What’s New,” a yearly feature of ours that presents a rundown of new municipal projects and commercial developments in our communities. Anyone who doesn’t know that Lake and Sumter counties are booming with growth must be living in a swamp. Retail, housing, recreational and health-care projects are opening soon or on the drawing boards across the region. We also bring you a fascinating, locally produced web series, “Cracked Mirrors,” which examines social issues; a delicious meal at Chop House in The Villages; and a trip to a winemaker at a Sorrento strawberry field. Eat, drink and be merry,
Have a story to tell? We’re always looking for stories about people who live and work in our area. Send suggestions to chris@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 • J A N ' 2 0
Kendra Akers Doug Akers
OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com
DESIGN
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AT YOUR SERVICE
PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
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EDITORIAL
Jason Fugate Chris Gerbasi
CREATIVE DIRECTOR jason@akersmediagroup.com
MANAGING EDITOR chris@akersmediagroup.com
Michael Gaulin James Combs
SENIOR DESIGNER michael@akersmediagroup.com
STAFF WRITER james@akersmediagroup.com
Volkan Ulgen Theresa Campbell
ART DIRECTOR volkan@akersmediagroup.com
Douglas Tyler Victoria Schlabig
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY douglas@akersmediagroup.com
STAFF WRITER victoria@akersmediagroup.com
Megan Mericle CON TRIBUTIN G GRAPHIC DESIGNER WRITER S megan@akersmediagroup.com
Anthony Rao Joe Angione
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER anthony@akersmediagroup.com
SA LES
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As counties grow, major projects are changing the landscape.
HEALTHY INSPIRATION | Tammy Trocino maximizes midlife health. p.14
JAN '20
SPONSORED BY
JAN '20
L AKE, SUMTER & VILLAGE
HE’S COOKIN’
forty FE ATURIN G
Top professionals who are crushing it in their fields across Lake and Sumter counties.
40
Tyler Brandeburg, 25 Commercial risk advisor with Brown & Brown Insurance
TO LA KE COUNTY
LAKE COUNTY IS HOPPIN’
Q&A with celebrity chef Robert Irvine
Local beer that’s truly local. Fresh hops, fruit and other ingredients grown in Lake County.
HEALTH PROS AL SO
SHE’S ALL HEART
Special Advertising section provides expert medical insights
Cardiologist Nitza Alvarez advocates for women’s health.
REFLECTING SOCIETY
‘Cracked Mirrors’ web series examines today’s issues.
ELEGANT ALTERNATIVE Chop House steps up to the plate in The Villages.
+
RISE AND DINE
Should you skip breakfast?
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
SMART goals for an improved you
FRESH TODAY!
WHERE THE LOCALS GO
BIRDWATCHERS UNITE
Enjoy food picked fresh at a farm café, pick your own fruit, or take a hayride to relish agritourism.
Find the best places for outdoor fun, downtown adventure, and lazy life on the water.
Lake County is home to hundreds of bird species, including the native scrub-jay. TO L AKE COUNT Y • 1
Hot off the press!
The latest editions of Lake & Sumter Style, Healthy Living, and Welcome to Lake County.
M A RK ETIN G
Tim McRae
VICE PRESIDENT, SALES tim@akersmediagroup.com
Melanie Melvin Dillon True
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING melanie@akersmediagroup.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE dillon@akersmediagroup.com
Shaena Long Pam Thompson
SALES ASSISTANT shaena@akersmediagroup.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE pam@akersmediagroup.com
A D M IN IS TRATION Deb Matlock Aubrey Akers Simmons
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES deb@akersmediagroup.com
OFFICE MANAGER aubrey@akersmediagroup.com
D ISTRIBUTION Scott Hegg
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com
Lake & Sumter Style is a proud member of
Winner of 200+ Awards for Excellence
WHAT’S NEW IN 2020
STAFF WRITER theresa@akersmediagroup.com
Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2019 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.
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, Village Edition Style, or Healthy Living. 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. Back Issues: Order a single issue by mail for $7, or 2 or more single issues for $9. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.
Digitize your life Visit the Apple or Android app store today and download the Lake & Sumter Style or Healthy Living online magazine app for your mobile device.
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J A N ' 2 0 • 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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United & Community Minded
PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
United Southern Bank has recently put down roots in Wildwood with the opening of our 12th branch. After over 80 years of serving Lake and Sumter Counties, we still love growing into new communities. We have worked hard to maintain a culture that puts a premium on building strong, long-term relationships with our customers. Our officers and directors live here - many for all their lives - and pride themselves on knowing our customers well and understanding their banking needs. Local ownership and management truly makes a difference. Our goal is to always “do the right thing” in everything we do, each and every day. USB has been profitable throughout its history which has allowed the bank to build a strong capital base to ensure we can both meet your lending needs and be a safe and secure home for your deposits. United Southern Bank offers a style of banking that is personal, friendly, and rewarding, yet it doesn’t mean technology takes
unitedsouthernbank.com
a back seat. USB has been an early adopter of the latest in bank technology and we are committed to staying at the forefront of new services like mobile banking. USB’s commercial lending team has a reputation of meeting business-owners’ needs, understanding business demands and challenges and “getting the deal done”. We are connected with all of our individual communities in many ways, including our participation in countless community events and organizations. United Southern Bank understands its responsibilities to the communities we serve and the need to give back through volunteerism, charitable support and event sponsorship. We are thrilled to be a part of the Wildwood community and look forward to serving our new neighbors!
12 Convenient Locations
Meet Your Team Linda Weekley VP Branch Manager | NMLS# 967293 USB Wildwood Branch I have been in banking for 50 years and have been an active member of the Leesburg community for 49 years, serving on several different boards. I am active on the Vestry Board at my church, am joining the Cattleman’s Club Association, and becoming a board member of the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. My ties to Sumter County go back over 30 years as my husband was a teacher at South Sumter Middle School for many years. I am trilled to now be at my best job ever managing the USB Wildwood Branch!
Carrie Cribb VP Residential Lender | NMLS# 234308 Sumter and South Lake Counties I live just seven miles from Wildwood’s historic center and enjoy being an active member of the local community. I attend Oxford Assembly of God and serve as club Secretary for the Wildwood Rotary Club. I have spent the last 29 years working with community banks in small towns like Wildwood. I have enjoyed watching Wildwood grow over the years and I appreciate how it has held onto its identity as a small town with a lot of history and a tight-knit supportive community. I am so excited to be serving the Wildwood community as a residential lender!
Bill Wonus SVP Commercial Lender | NMLS# 514777 Greater Leesburg and Sumter County I have been in banking for 26 years and worked in Sumter County early in my career where I met my wife who was born and raised in Sumter County. My ties to Wildwood and Sumter County have only grown stronger with my family’s long-term plans to relocate there. I already bank several Wildwood businesses and look forward getting to know more of them.
Great people. Great bank. GREAT SERVICES
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USB Wildwood 1017 S. Main Street Wildwood, FL 34785
Customer Care Center 352.669.2121
Savings Drive-Thru & 24 Hour ATM Mobile Banking* Residential & Commercial Loans** Trust & Investments***
*Subject to terms and conditions and service provider fees. ** Subject to credit approval. *** Not a deposit. Not FDIC-insured. Not insured by any Federal Government Agency. Not Guaranteed by the bank. May go down in value.
(352) 669-2121
Trust & Investment Services 352.483.5880 unitedsouthernbank.com
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THE HIT LIST News and notes from Lake and Sumter counties.
PERSON OF INTEREST Dr. Nitza Alvarez: She’s all heart.
OUTSTANDING STUDENT Kamryn Reynolds is Miss Leesburg.
IN THE VILLAGES TV is not music to seniors’ ears.
THIS N' THAT Don’t even think about resolutions.
THE HIT LIST
IT’S WHAT’S FOR DINNER: The Rock & Roll Dreams show serves up a generous portion of Meat Loaf as Benny Israel faithfully captures the singer’s powerful, wide-ranging operatic vocals, along with the epic theatrical show Meat Loaf fans have come to love. 7pm Saturday, Jan. 25, Mount Dora Plaza Live, 2728 W. Old Highway 441. Tickets $20-$35. 352.234.3755. mountdoraplazalive.com.
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SERENITY NOW! Serenity Spa & Wellness recently celebrated with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The business at 355 Citrus Tower Blvd., Suite 106, Clermont, offers massages, facials, eyelash extensions and waxing, among other services. Go relax. 407.610.0050. serenityinclermont.com.
IT’S GLOW TIME! Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park at 2510 S. Highway 27 in Clermont, is offering a three-hour jump session in glow lights. Participants will wear glow shirts while enjoying fun-filled jumping experiences. Music and fog add even more excitement to the event, which takes place from 8-11pm each Saturday in January. Cost is $20. 352.404.4134. skyzone.com.
CHILI RECIPES FOR CHILLY WEATHER: Need your chili fix? Support the Lake County Firefighter Charity Florida Fund Jan. 24-25 at the seventh annual Charity Chili Cook Off & BBQ competition at Gator HarleyDavidson, 1745 U.S. Highway 441, Leesburg. The event features cooking competitions, a special needs fun competition and free concerts. 352.267.4580. lakefirefightercharity.org.
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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 • J A N ' 2 0
TEDXEUSTIS: A series of 12 speakers, including doctors, community activists, advocates for health care, mental health and women’s issues, representatives from nonprofits, researchers, engineers and a police captain, will take the stage Jan. 17 for TedxEustis at the Bay Street Players theater, 109 N. Bay St. baystreetplayers.tix.com.
WATERFRONT ATTRACTION: Venetian Center is Leesburg’s newest crown jewel on the Lake Harris shores of Venetian Gardens. The $9.6 million, 20,700-square-foot multipurpose building is an upgrade to the former community center built in the 1950s. Venetian Center is available for receptions and special events. To rent the facility, call the city Recreation Department at 352.728.9885.
KEEPING RESIDENTS SAFE: Mount Dora firefighters are installing smoke detectors in homes of low-income families with children, thanks to a $2,000 donation from Mount Dora Trust. “This is a wonderful thing, and we’re going to be able to make things better for folks in our community who can’t afford smoke alarms,” Fire Chief Tim Griner says in a press release.
MAKING A FEDERAL CASE OUT OF IT: Linda Bokman, of Mount Dora, was recently honored by the Federal Correctional Complex in Coleman for her fundraising efforts to provide gift cards to federal workers on last year’s long furlough without pay. “It really got to my heart,” says the FCC Coleman retiree, recalling that some of the struggling workers were cancer patients and single moms.
THE CHOICE OF READERS: “Clermont – From Gem of the Hills to Choice of Champions” is a 404-page hardbound updated history book about the city. It is the most comprehensive history of the city to date and contains more than 70 pages of new stories and rare images. The book, published by the Cooper Memorial Library Board Association, can be purchased at clermontbook.com.
ART ON THE FLY: The Leesburg Center for the Arts is bringing its Mobile Art Studio to the Leesburg Public Library. Children of all ages can learn from a professional artist and create cool artwork during free sessions from 4:30-5:30pm Jan. 13 and 27 at the library, 100 E. Main St. No registration required. 352.728.9790.
PEO PLE
Dr. Nitza Alvarez Cardiologist and women’s health advocate.
VITAL STATS
INTERVIEWER: VICTORIA SCHLABIG
≈ PHOTO: DOUGLAS TYLER
• Born in Puerto Rico, attended medical school there. • Runs practice out of Tri County Heart Institute, The Villages. • Author of “Heels Vs. Ties: Living with Your #1 Threat.”
Favorite part of your job? I love cardiology because it has a lot of variety. You can be able to do a little bit of radiology, a little bit of procedures. My
favorite part is being able to sit down with the patient and go through the problems, help them get better and see them recover their lifestyle.
Know a person of interest? Tell us!
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Role model? One of the persons that inspired me the most is Sonia Sotomayor, one of our Supreme Court judges, and it’s because as a woman, that’s the thing she had to overcome to get where she is. And when we think about women in today’s day, we are still a minority in many places, and health is not the exception, so looking at somebody like her and saying well, if we want to make a difference in this world, I think that we can make it and we can make it in the health-care system.
What inspired your book? As a specialist in cardiovascular disease, I always had a passion about women’s heart disease and I think that the more I get into the practice of cardiology, I come to find out the fact that women continue to be a
Email your recommendation to victoria@akersmediagroup.com
great majority that continue to be underdiagnosed, undertreated, and a lot of women continue to die every year from it. … The intention was to make it simple so any woman can read it and understand what are my risks, am I at risk, and have a good conversation with their doctors and be their own advocate.
What do you enjoy outside of work? Spending time with my kids. I have two kids and even though I love what I do, I am very conscious about my role as a mother. And I enjoy spending time with them.
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Welcome to caskey's mower shop! A family owned and operated business in Tavares, Florida for over 50 years. Offering sales and services for lawn mowers and outdoor power equipment. We have the best selection of lawn mowers and outdoor power equipment in lake county and all central florida. With our variety of brands, we are sure we can meet your residential and commercial outdoor power equipment needs.
Jason West, Owner
caskey's mower shop caskeysmowershop.com | 31333 SAUNDERS CIRCLE, TAVARES | 352.343.2151 J A N ' 2 0 • 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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OUTSTANDING STUDENT
PEO PLE
Kamryn Reynolds Miss Leesburg and senior at Leesburg High School. INTERVIEWER: THERESA CAMPBELL
≈ PHOTO: DOUGLAS TYLER
VITAL STATS
Future goal: Earn a doctorate in molecular biology. I plan to study and research DNA sequencing and genetic links to prevent and/or cure human diseases. My goal is to implement the information discovered in the Human Genome Project. • Daughter of Barak and Paula Reynolds. • Favorite subject is calculus. • Plays soccer and saxophone and is a featured twirler for LHS band. • Aspires to become a biochemist.
As Miss Leesburg, I enjoy: Volunteering at various events within my city. Community service is a rewarding experience that brings people of all ages together for a good cause.
One of the best days of my life: Crowned Drum Majorettes of America’s Majorette Queen of America 2019. I began competing in baton twirling at 11 and worked my way up in five years. My life has consisted of hours of lessons, practices and traveling around the Southeast competing at various competitions. This valuable experience taught me a great work ethic, setting and achieving goals, patience and how it’s not always the win, but the journey.
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My inspiration: My mother. She has taught me not only are we all equal, but also to love and care for people regardless of gender, politics, race and religion. Equally important, she has shown me even the worst of circumstances can be YN KAMR A S HOLD overcome with positive PA . 4 .6 G thinking, continuous improvement and a positive attitude.
Three words that describe me: Ambitious, focused, kind. Favorite possessions: My memories. They will last forever while physical possessions can be taken, lost or broken. Best advice I have ever received: “Practice like I’ve never won and perform like I’ve never lost.”
Favorite quote: “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” – Alan Kay.
Pet peeve: Disorganization. Email your recommendations to theresa@akersmediagroup.com
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WISHES YOU
Happy Holidays
BEST OF THE
HOTLIST 2019
NOMINATED IN THE 2019 BEST OF THE BEST HOTLIST
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IN THE VILLAGES
CO MMENTARY
What did he say?! Television audio often is unfriendly to seniors. STORY: JOE ANGIONE
verybody knows getting old isn’t for sissies. Each year, seniors notice things are changing for them: their health suffers, and that includes their hearing, particularly their sensitivity to both loud and soft sounds. This sensitivity becomes particularly irritating when watching television. Seniors find music tracks far too loud, nearly drowning out dialogue. They also find that actors mumble more than they speak their lines. This frequently making them unintelligible. Today’s actors, if they are taught at all, are not instructed to enunciate clearly. They’re required to shoot for realism such as when people speak softly during
intimate moments or hiss rapidly at each other during moments of anger or fright. The realism is top notch. Unfortunately, the comprehension is terrible for seniors ... maybe for everybody. In the old days, when many Hollywood actors were trained on the Broadway stage, comprehension was most important. Dialogue could be strong, angry, intimate, but always enunciated for maximum comprehension. Today, no one would want TV or movie actors to speak their lines woodenly as in reciting for an oral exam. But we do want to hear what is being said on screen. There has always been a perceived need for music tracks to accompany TV and movie productions. And they can do an excellent job of highlighting emotions and actions portrayed on screen. However, does this music have to be so earsplitting and overpowering? Too often, the music fails to complement the theme or genre of the
Joe Angione loves to share stories of his adventures.
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production. Frequently, it interferes with the message the actors are trying to communicate. Viewers might think the music is there because “payola” money was offered by the artist or record label to get it aired on TV. This cheapens the quality of the production. The next time you watch a show with music that’s too loud or inappropriate, ask yourself if any music was necessary at all. If not, contact your cable system and the television networks to suggest they “86” (kill) the music. Many thousands of disgruntled viewers are doing this, and also using Twitter and other social media to complain—and they’re being heard. Your gripes will be better received if you can lodge them as a member of a group. For Villagers, that might mean getting your village association to magnify your complaint. Stand up and be counted. Get involved. The quality of television and movie entertainment depends on you.
If you want to contact him, email joeangione@aol.com.
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A New You for the New Year
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CO MMENTARY
Give up already You’re not kidding anybody with those fake New Year’s resolutions. STORY: CHRIS GERBASI
≈ ILLUSTRATION: MEGAN MERICLE
appy New Year! New year, new you! Get excited! Get healthy! So much is going to change this year! You’re going to do everything you ever wanted and become the perfect version of a human being! Men will look up to you! Women will look at you! Dogs will sniff you! 2020 is going to be the greatest year in the history of existence and it’s all going to be because of you! Blah, blah-blahblah, blah, blah. Who are you kidding? You have an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other. Your angel is a Spandex-wearing, teetotalling, New Age crapspewing piece of white bread. And your devil can kick your angel’s butt. Your devil eats devil’s food cake for breakfast. And, so do you. You’re not going to stop eating Hostess cupcakes in 2020. Make peace with it.
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Why not use 2020 to turn yourself into the best possible you that you already are? Embrace who you are. When you date someone and they try to change you, don’t you resent it? So why let yourself change you? Tell that self where they can go.
“I’m going to be more active!” You love the comfort of a recliner and the hypnotic allure of an LED flat screen. Be the best you can be at sitting and watching TV. How many hours can you watch at a time? Six? Eight? C’mon, you can do better than that. Make 2020 the year you binge-watch “Friends” for 118 consecutive hours.
“I’m going to drink less!” Drinking’s not just for social occasions anymore. Try it with breakfast. Those boring bran flakes will seem a little livelier drenched in bourbon. Impress colleagues with how much you can drink in a one-hour lunch. Heck, try
it during a one-hour business meeting with an important client. Risk makes you feel alive. (Disclaimer: This advice does not apply to mean drunks.) Be sure to always find a ride home and help the Uber community at the same time.
“I’m going to quit smoking!” Don’t you miss the cool, relaxing drag of a cigarette? Society shamed you into quitting, and you fell for it. Laugh in the surgeon general’s face and light up! You know you want to. You dream of it at night. Hey, it may help you lose weight.
“I’m going to lose weight!” Why be concerned about weight? The average American weighs 437 pounds, according to madeupstatistics.com, so you probably have a long way to go just to be average. Do you want to be just average in 2020? No, 2020 is the year
YOU’RE NOT GOING TO STOP EATING HOSTESS CUPCAKES IN 2020. MAKE PEACE WITH IT.
“I’m going to make my marriage work!” Maybe you
you rise to above average. Wouldn’t you love a patty melt about now? Eat to your heart’s content, or detriment as the case may be.
“I’m going to exercise more!” Don’t worry about working off the calories, either.
Exercise is for suckers. It seems like a lot of work, and isn’t one of your resolutions “I’m going to work less!”? My motto has always been “Never run when you can walk. Or use a scooter. Or crawl or roll. Or remain motionless.”
need a change at home, too. What better way to make a bold statement in the new year than to dump that spouse who’s become a dull stranger to you for lo these many years. Everybody’s doing it. About 1.99 out of 2 marriages end in divorce. You think you can beat those odds? What are you trying to prove?
“I’m going to spend less!” Are you worried about
finances after shaking up the household? Forget about it. Spend your credit card company’s money like a CEO raiding the pension fund. Take that around-the-world trip you’ve always wanted. Buy a boat. A big, freakin’ boat. Or spend it more wisely on fast cars and fast women, or slow cars and slow women or some combination thereof. YOLO! OMG! LOL! Does that mean anything? Whatever it means, give up, sit down, settle in and make 2020 the Year of You.
Would you like to eat Hostess cupcakes with me? Comment on this article or share ideas for new stories by emailing chris@akersmediagroup.com.
CHRIS GERBASI
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An Elegant Twist on Chops
IN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGES COMMUNITY®
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The changing landscape Projects across Lake and Sumter counties cover all aspects of growth: housing, retail, health care, public safety, recreation and infrastructure. STORIES: JAMES COMBS, THERESA CAMPBELL, VICTORIA SCHLABIG, CHRIS GERBASI
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South Lake Regional Park
LAKE COUNTY ON THE MOVE
Lake County is flourishing with new projects while also improving existing services. County Manager Jeff Cole highlighted some of the 2020 capital projects: Animal Shelter site under construction
• Completion of the construction of a new animal shelter that will reflect the best practices in animal sheltering and support Lake County’s “no kill” philosophy and approach. • Accelerating the resurfacing of roads by utilizing a $10 million loan that will be repaid with sales tax revenue.
This will allow the county to repave 63 miles of roads rated in the poorest condition, as well as about 31 miles of roads that, while in slightly better condition, are also in need of repaving. • Continued development of the East Lake Sports and Community Complex, which will not only offer park amenities, but also will be the site of a new library and fire station in future years to better serve residents. • Continued site preparation for the development of the South Lake Regional Park in the Groveland area. Jeff says Lake County’s 2020 adopted budget for capital projects is $38.2 million, which is being funded from sales tax revenue. “That funding will be used for the capital projects and for renovations to the courthouse in Tavares, purchasing the tax collector’s South Lake County building, sidewalk replacements and construction, fire station renovations and park enhancements,” he says. The county also is focused on ensuring that county services are being provided in an efficient, fiscally responsible way, he says.
“Through those efforts, we identified $2.9 million in savings throughout the organization,” Jeff says, adding Hurricane Irma was costly for Lake County in 2017. “The $10 million cost of recovery— predominantly from debris removal— significantly depleted the county’s reserves,” he says, adding that Lake County has been working to strengthen its reserves for future events.
G R OV E L A N D SAFETY IS PARAMOUNT
Public safety employees in Groveland finally will have a home to accommodate the city’s booming population. A two-story, 33,000-square-foot public safety complex at the corner of State Road 50 and Beverly Drive is expected to be completed by October and will house the town’s police and fire departments. It represents a significant upgrade for the police department, which is
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currently located in a facility that was built in the 1940s and originally used as a detention center. More importantly, both departments will be able to provide better services to residents of Groveland, Lake County’s fastest-growing city.
Groveland Public Safety Complex
“Since 2017, Groveland has been putting up between 600 and 700 rooftops a year, and we have to protect the quality of life for those new residents and existing ones,” says Shawn Ramsey, director of public safety. “Having this facility will be a morale boost for the men and women in both departments.” Eventually, the $10 million facility will be used as a regional training site for police and fire departments throughout Central Florida. “This facility is one of the largest undertakings Groveland has ever approached,” Shawn says. “It will be a benchmark for future projects to follow.”
T AVA R E S SENIORS ARE WELCOME
Years ago, many people may have thought of a senior center as a place where elderly people gathered around a table to play bingo. A new senior center in Tavares, however, will be a vibrant, action-packed venue where people can exercise, attend classes and dance to their hearts’ content.
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City officials expect the center, which will be connected to the Tavares Public Library, 314 N. New Hampshire Ave., to be completed in two years. “We have a large senior population, and there’s definitely demand for more senior programming,” says Tamera Rogers, community services director. “We expect it to be a busy center that will be enriching and appealing to all seniors.” Tavares Parks and Recreation will offer various programs for the senior center. Those will include instructor-led workshops, lectures by guest speakers, exercise classes and dancing. Outside the center, pickleball and bocce ball courts will be built next to the existing shuffleboard courts. The city has hired a firm to develop a conceptual plan. The next phase will be applying for a $600,000 community development block grant from the federal government. Then the city will bid on professional design and construction services. “Because the senior center is being built next to the expanded library, our object is to create an intergenerational hub of activity,” Tamera says.
Eustis Sailing Club
EUSTIS A VOTE ON VENUES
In a referendum scheduled for March 17, Eustis residents will decide whether to approve debt of no more than $11.4 million to help the city fund a new community/ conference/sailing center and an expansion of the Carver Park Recreation Facility. The proposed $16.35 million center would be a 39,500-square-foot facility replacing the existing community center on Northshore Drive, according to Tom Carrino, the city’s economic development director. The new facility would host not only local events such as weddings, banquets and meetings, but also would accommodate conferences, eSports events, bass fishing tournaments, regattas and other events. If the referendum passes, construction would begin in the fall and completion would be targeted for February 2022. The Carver Park Recreation project, estimated at $1.4 million, proposes
a 4,000-square-foot expansion that would allow for an increase in camp programming, after-school activities, indoor basketball, volleyball, pickleball, soccer, physical education, instructional classes and more, he says.
MOUNT DORA BLAZING TRAILS
With art galleries, antique shops and cozy restaurants, Mount Dora is a popular destination for tourists. Now, city officials are paving a path to make it an equally popular destination for bicyclists. Within the next few years, a 5.5-mile recreational trail for cyclists and pedestrians will be built as part of a system connecting both Florida coasts. The trail leads from downtown
Mount Dora to Sorrento, allowing cyclists to access the trailhead of the Seminole Wekiva Trail at the County Road 46A interchange. Bikers can continue on that trail into Seminole County and eventually connect to the West Orange Trail and ride into Orange County. Both the Seminole Wekiva Trail and the West Orange Trail are part of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail. The new trail also will connect to the 5.48-mile Tav-Dora Trail that leads to Tavares. “Our trail will be part of a regional trail system,” City Manager Robin Hayes says. “The trail will be a centerpiece to connect people from other communities to us and vice versa.” Bike trails are popping up as more people try to live healthy lifestyles and spend time outdoors.
“We’re excited about being part of that trend,” says Tim Wilson, economic development manager. “It’s great how these trails connect towns and cities together, providing an opportunity for an exciting cycling trip.”
LEESBURG WELCOME TO THE LAKEFRONT
Leesburg’s new 20,700-square-foot Venetian Center, south of Dixie Avenue on the shores of Lake Harris, is expected to be a popular venue for people to enjoy community events. “It’s a great asset for the city, and I believe it will be a regional attraction bringing in more people to experience the Leesburg lakefront,” says City Manager Al Minner, who is proud the center was built debt-free. Al says Leesburg has budgeted $7.2 million for this year’s capital projects, including design and bids for a new
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Venetian Center
aquatic facility and a teen center, new slips for the marina, new hangars at the city’s airport and playground and irrigation improvements at Sleepy Hollow Sports Complex, as well as completion of the downtown master plan. “There are a few other items that will be completed, like the boardwalk on the basin in Venetian Gardens and the opening of the new restaurant (on the lake),” Al adds. “Also, we will continue to be working with The Villages on their expansion plans for development.” The biggest budget challenge is making it all work. “We manage our funds pretty well, but at the end of the day, there is never enough funding to go around,” Al says. “So, we have become great at shifting financial blocks, targeting projects and moving step by step. I think our work over the last several years is now just beginning to become evident.” A new medical plaza is taking shape at 106 W. North Blvd., where the long-shuttered Rattan Wicker store has been renovated and repainted. Tenants have started to move in: Complete Care, a comprehensive group practice, has
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multiple suites offering services including rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging, physiotherapy, interventional pain management, and orthopedic and spine surgery.
L A DY L A K E ROOM FOR RETAIL
Fennell. Originally named Lady Lake Commons, the center was renamed Earth Fare Commons for one of its anchor tenants, Town Manager Kris Kollgaard says. Earth Fare, a health and wellness supermarket specializing in natural and organic foods, will occupy 24,010 square feet, according to a news release. Another anchor will be a Goodwill retail thrift store, and other tenants include Mission BBQ and Heartland Dental. One business opened after Thanksgiving: Miller’s Ale House, a 7,200-square-foot restaurant and sports bar. Miller’s, which has about 55 locations in Florida, will spark sports fan competition with the Texas Roadhouse about 500 feet away on 441 and Gator’s Dockside, a mile or two up the road in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. More tenants are being secured, says Kris, adding that she’s not concerned about overdevelopment in that stretch of 441. “We are very excited, and I think the tenants will be a good fit for Lady Lake and be successful,” she says.
W I L DWO O D BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Just when you thought the town of Lady Lake had all the stores imaginable, think again. The stretch of U.S. Highway 441/27 from Fennell Boulevard to The Villages’ Main Street already is packed with retail and restaurants, but town officials made room for more. A new shopping center is under construction at the corner of 441 and
Earth Fare Commons
Trailwinds Village, a large mixed-use project, made a big splash in summer 2017 when construction began along County Road 466A between U.S. Highway 301 and Buena Vista Boulevard. More than two years later, the developer continues to add tenants. New businesses under construction include Publix supermarket, a freestanding emergency room, Taco Bell and The Shoppes II, a strip plaza. Plans also call for The Wilds at Trailwinds, a 384-unit apartment complex, and possibly an assisted living facility, according to Melanie Peavy, the city’s director of development services. The city is a close partner with The Villages, which is expanding within the city limits.
“The Villages development continues to spur growth in other areas of the city,” Melanie says. Wildwood is building considerable housing through three planned developments. Oxford Crossings will consist of up to 1,000 residential units, in addition to 15,000 square feet of commercial use, on sites on U.S. Highway 301, County Road 472 and CR 114. Triumph South will include 207 singlefamily affordable units on CR 462, and Densan Park will offer 239 single-family units on CR 101, she says. Other housing projects starting or opening in 2020 include the Beaumont property project, 400 single-family units west of Trailwinds Village, and Simple Life Lakeshore, an innovative project consisting of 203 affordable “tiny homes” near CR 466 and Highway 301, as Wildwood keeps pace with The Villages as one of the fastest-growing communities in the area.
T H E V I L L AG E S CHANGING THE SKYLINE
While it often is hard to keep track of the many projects in The Villages, one may be singled out as the most unique and highly anticipated. A major medical center/hotel project that broke ground in 2018 on State Road 44, west of Brownwood Paddock Square, is nearing its target date for completion this spring. The Center for Advanced Healthcare at Brownwood is a state-of-the-art, multi-story, 200,000-square-foot multi-specialty care clinic serving all needs except emergency services. The adjoining Brownwood Hotel & Spa is a seven-story boutique hotel with 150 guest rooms, 10,000 square feet of convention space, a spa, a resort-style pool and the Wolfgang Puck Kitchen & Bar. In the northern end, Villagers can expect to see construction of a new recreation center begin in 2020. The Villages administration is repurposing the former First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall property south off
County Road 42 and west of Buena Vista Boulevard. The theme of the recreation center honors past and current first responders. Details for amenities at the First Responders Recreation Center were being ironed out in late 2019, and the site plan was expected to be presented early this year for a vote. The estimated start date is fall 2020 with a target completion date of summer 2021, according to administration documents.
CLERMONT CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
As much as Clermont, Lake County’s largest city, continues to grow, city leaders are still paying attention to detail downtown. The Art Walk, celebrating local artists, will break ground this year with estimated completion by the end of 2020. The brick walkway will connect Montrose Street to Minneola Avenue and will feature a covered portion and a grassy, open-air space for vendor tents, according to the city newsletter. The Clermont Wi-Fi Trail is live in limited locations along the South Lake Trail. This year, the coverage area will expand to include the waterfront trail
and the downtown core. The addition will enhance safety and navigation for trail users and will be able to support events with data and live broadcasting in these areas, the city website states. Downtown Streetscape construction began in October on improvements to West Avenue and Osceola Street, with an estimated summertime completion. The 243-acre Olympus project, which was announced in 2019 with much fanfare, will be completed in phases over the next several years. The one-ofa-kind master-planned community will include sports training and health-care facilities, townhomes and multiple-family apartments, a trail system and an outdoor amphitheater. The Olympus project is located in Lake County’s Wellness Way Area, east of U.S. Highway 27, close to the entrance to Lake Louisa Park. “As we look ahead, the future is bright for Clermont,” City Manager Darren Gray says. “We are set up for success as we continue to prioritize responsible growth, a reenergized downtown and a thoughtfully planned Wellness Way. We will continue to enhance our stronghold as a community where families, businesses, health and wellness opportunities, educational institutions and athletics thrive.”
The Art Walk
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New event venue Dancin’ Ballroom & Events Center offers a spacious, convenient site for wedding receptions, business meetings, quinceañeras, and parties. PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
o you wish there was a venue with enough space and flexibility that still could fit your budget? A place with plenty of parking and easy wheelchairaccess for all to share in your joy? Welcome to Dancin’ Ballroom & Event Center’s location at Shoppes of Lake Village, 10601 U.S. Highway 441, near the Publix by Lake Square Mall in Leesburg.
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“We want to provide an event venue people can enjoy, whether on weekends for wedding receptions or weekday mornings for catered business breakfast functions,” says Chris McCain, owner since 2014 of Dancin’ Ballroom, which has been a Lake County legacy since 1984. The new venue is Dancin’ Ballroom’s third site since outgrowing previous locations. Chris invites bridal couples, corporations, nonprofit groups, businesses and organizations to stop by and check out the 8,221-square-foot venue with a 6,500-square-foot dance floor, the largest in Central Florida.
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The entire facility may be rented for special events in 2020 and beyond. Dancin’ Ballroom has banquet tables with chairs to seat up to 250 people; a bridal room; separate entrance access which makes it ideal for private parking and licensed caterers bringing in hot food boxes; and clean simple décor that allows for creative design options for your special event. “This venue is a blank canvas and it can be transformed into any type of theme event that you would want,” says Bob Tucker, an award-winning event planner and florist for Events by
Miss Daisy in Leesburg, who recently toured the facility. “I can make it a ‘Wow!’ The sky is the limit with what you can do.” Bob believes the venue provides an ideal, easy-access location for businesses’ weekday functions, business expos, fundraisers, birthdays and more. “There are a lot of events that go on every day,” Bob says. “More people need to see that it’s here.” Stuart Palmer, Chris’s general manager, says the goal for the larger venue is to provide an affordable and configurable multipurpose
“WE WANT TO PROVIDE AN EVENT VENUE PEOPLE CAN ENJOY, WHETHER ON WEEKENDS FOR WEDDING RECEPTIONS OR WEEKDAY MORNINGS FOR CATERED BUSINESS BREAKFAST FUNCTIONS.” —CHRIS MCCAIN
facility that offers the community more choices for special events. “Our facility fills a unique niche in Lake County,” he says. “We are easily accessible, adaptable and budgetfriendly. We’re also very easy to work with.”
Shall we dance? The venue also is utilized most weekdays from noon-8pm for private and group dance classes. Public dance parties are hosted the second Friday of each month, with a group class at 6:30pm followed by social dancing from 7-9pm with singer Bobby Tate. Admission is $12. Additional Friday night public dance parties are being planned in the new year. Social Latin, swing and country western parties are in the works, too. Beginner social and ballroom group classes at Dancin’ Ballroom are $29.95 for four 45-minute sessions.
The dance studio offers a group class for youths on Fridays, in addition to many other specific dance styles, including the latest trends. A group of talented and experienced instructors offer private dance lessons on weekdays by appointment. The private dance students range in age from 14 to 88. “I’m 81 and feel 60. I took up ballroom dancing after my husband passed away last year, and I’m thankful dancing has given me a second chance at life,” says Aline Delisle, of Lady Lake, who has enjoyed dancing so much that she now dances competitively. “The main reason we are teaching people to dance is not for the competitive part of it, although we do have students who compete,” Chris says. “Most people are looking for the fun and enjoyment of social dancing. We teach people how to dance confidently and look good when they go out social dancing. “We teach based on each person’s desire and ability. We encourage you to be
the best you can be,” adds Chris, noting that a few students have come to find help for health reasons, including Parkinson’s disease. Dancing definitely helps with their balance. Several Dancin’ Ballroom students say the dance classes and dance parties allow them to enjoy exercise without it feeling like exercise, and to be able to dance with professional dancers who make it enjoyable for them to learn how to lead or follow on the dance floor. “Dancin’ Ballroom provides a social outlet,” Chris says. “While classes are going on, students also come here and socialize. It’s a chance to get out of the house and be around positive people.” Chris wants Dancin’ Ballroom’s new event venue to be the place where the community can enjoy special moments in life, whether it’s dancing the night away at a wedding reception, socializing at a business function or learning dance moves in a fun class or dance party.
352.319.6767 / ballroomdancingleesburg.com / 10601 U.S. Highway 441, Leesburg
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J ANUARY
PAID
P R OM OTION AL
2020
EDI T I O N
F E ATUR E
Small Changes, Big Results “I cannot tell you how many patients I have seen who lost 10 to 15 pounds and the next thing you knew they weren’t taking their diabetes medicine,” says Dr. Joseph Bennett, radiation oncologist at RBOI’s Lecanto facility. “They weren’t taking their high blood pressure medication. So, just a small 10 to 15 pound weight loss can make a huge difference.” Maintaining a healthy weight is one of Dr. Bennett’s “Six Ways to Improve Your Health,” his wellness talk at RBOI. The other five are smoking cessation, moderating
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alcohol intake, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet. New Year’s resolutions are often short-lived. But making small changes is the trick that can help those resolutions stick. Maintaining a healthy weight cuts your risk of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, and colon and uterine cancers. “Enjoy your food but eat a little bit less,” Dr. Bennett advises. “The minute you start to feel full, stop.” He cautions about diets promising quick results. “If you all
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of a sudden lose the weight and then start doing whatever you want to do again, you’re going to start having this yo-yo effect, and you tend to go up higher every single
time. If you’re going to do a diet, you want to approach it eating foods that you can sit with.”
Living a Know Your Balanced Life Drinks Our sense of balance decreases with age, so balance exercises are recommended for people over 50. The older you get, the greater the chance of complications if you fall and break a bone.
Women should limit alcoholic drinks to one per day and men to two per day. A standard drink is a 12-ounce beer or wine cooler, or 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquor.
5 Week Mindfulness For Health Class
For those dealing with cancer and their loved ones. Space is limited, please preregister with Amy Roberts 352.732.0277. Classes are Wednesdays from 10a.m. to 11:30a.m., RBOI Villages Office.
Beginning January 15th, 2020.
Pillow Talk Getting enough sleep is important for good brain function and for letting your body rest and recover. Dr. Bennett suggests the following if you have trouble sleeping: Make your room as dark as possible. Don't watch TV in the bedroom, and get rid of bright screens. • Keep your room cool. • Don't get overstimulated before going to bed. •
by the numbers
1
Quitting tobacco is the most important healthy behavior
Over-sleeping can be as harmful as under-sleeping. "Just because you can sleep 12 hours a day doesn't mean you should," Dr. Bennett says.
150 to 200
Recommended minutes per week of moderateintensity aerobic exercise
7 to 8
Radiation Oncologist
Florida Department of Health, Marion County, has fitness programs. Go to http://marion.floridahealth.gov/ or call 352-629-0137. Livestrong at the YMCA (a physical activity and well-being program) helps people who have or had cancer and their families. In Citrus County, call Bill Coyle at 352-500-9622 or email bcoyle@ymcasuncoast.org. In Marion County, call Tiffany Brown at 352-368-9622.
2
Recommended times per week for strength training
C. Joseph Bennett Jr. M.D.
Tobacco Free Florida can help you quit smoking. Go to http://tobaccofreeflorida.com/quityourway or call 1-877-U-CAN-NOW. Ocala Health has a dietitian. Call 352-401-1338.
•
You can use dark tape to cover the lights on electronics in your bedroom or use a sleep mask. A noise machine can help you sleep, but you can become accustomed to one and need to take it with you when you travel. And although alcohol is a depressant, it does not lead to good, productive sleep.
Resources You Can Use
Recommended hours of sleep per night
Patient-centered radiation oncology close to home 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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Plus Live Music!
SATURDAY
Jan 11th • 5:00pm
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the Meet eration en ng new gamic you . s n of dy ofessional pr FF STA C
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ST D BY
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Y AS T UGL : DO NY RAO S O T TH O PH O + AN
LER
DR. BREANNA J. FERGUSON | 32
COREY PENDERGRAFT | 31 Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Director of information technology at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Greatest career accomplishment: Being promoted to my current position. I started as a dispatcher at age 19, then spent years in the information technology department as a computer specialist and network technician. Business philosophy: Be a good leader for my team and make sure they have the resources to succeed. Leader I admire: Marcus Lemonis, from the television show “The Profit.” He’s a savvy businessman and self-made millionaire who supports small companies. Away from the job, I enjoy: I have four children under 5, so we frequent Walt Disney World. Hidden talent: Bowling. I once bowled a perfect game at age 17.
Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: Podiatrist and owner of Mid Lake Foot and Ankle, Tavares. My first job: Pizzamaker at Papa John’s. Greatest career accomplishment: Opening my own private practice. Leader I admire: Dr. Gregory Black, a mentor of mine that has taught me many valuable life lessons outside the realm of medicine. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my family, camping, biking, going to Disney and playing with our five crazy (but very cute) cats. Hidden talent: I was on the salsa team in college and I still have some of those flashy dance moves!
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40 KIM DUCHARMELEVENSOHN | 38 Current hometown: Winter Garden. Occupation: Realtor with Morris Realty and Investments, Leesburg. Greatest career accomplishment: Being named Realtor of the Year by the Realtors Association of Lake & Sumter Counties. Business philosophy: It’s not about the transaction; it’s about the relationship. Leader I admire: Cheryl Lambert, who is vice president of Florida Realtors. She suffered a stroke but keeps on going strong. Hidden talent: I attended a cake decorating class about 10 years ago and for a while people were paying me to bake cakes for special occasions. It’s something I really enjoy. Pet peeve: Not rinsing the dishes before you put them in the dishwasher.
DEAN SIMMONS | 27 Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Registered nurse in the emergency room for AdventHealth Apopka. My first job: I worked part time at my father’s company, Ford Press, in the bindery department. Greatest career accomplishment: Graduating from nursing school and immediately landing a job in the emergency department. I like the ER because it’s chaotic. Business philosophy: Care for people even on their worst days and keep them calm and safe. Away from the job, I enjoy: Fishing, hunting and sport shooting. Hidden talent: I’m very good with math and numbers. Pet peeve: People who rush. When there’s no need to be in a hurry and someone is anyway, it frustrates me.
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MELANIE WALTON | 37 Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: Chef and owner of Four M’s Kitchen, Mount Dora. My first job: Making specialty sandwiches and coffee drinks at a small café. Greatest career accomplishment: Getting clients to enjoy a food they previously thought they did not like. Business philosophy: Highly customized and elegant luxury on a plate. Leader I admire: Michael Chiarello, founder of NapaStyle. Away from the job, I enjoy: Traveling off the beaten path, boating, entertaining family and friends, and finding new boutique wine and food purveyors. Hidden talent: Making a lifelong friend in five minutes. Pet peeves: Disorganization, indecisiveness and cheap shoes.
JOSH BLAKE | 38 Current hometown: Lady Lake. Occupation: Lake County commissioner, District 5. I also work part time for the Career Development Center at Beacon College in Leesburg. My first job: Window tinting in The Villages as a teenager. Greatest accomplishment: Raising twin toddlers! Business philosophy: Let the free market work its magic. Leader I admire: Sen. Barry Goldwater, from Arizona, who once said, “Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice; moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.” Away from the job, I enjoy: Chasing my kids around the house. Hidden talent: I play the bagpipes. Pet peeves: Mosquitoes and hypocrisy.
RICHARD BROWN | 34 Current hometown: Wildwood. Occupation: Co-owner of Quality Moving Services. My first job: I flipped burgers at Wendy’s while in high school. Greatest career accomplishment: Starting Quality Moving Services from the ground up and seeing it grow over the years. Business philosophy: The customer is right and the customer always comes first. Leader I admire: My mom. My father left when I was 6, and she raised me by herself. She is an incredible woman. Away from the job, I enjoy: Fishing, playing cards and visiting theme parks. Pet peeve: Loud chewing.
TRAVIS LONG | 26 Current hometown: Fruitland Park. Occupation: Co-owner of Quality Moving Services. My first job: I moved furniture for another local company. Greatest career accomplishment: Winning Lake & Sumter Style magazine’s “Best of the Best” competition in the “Moving Service” category. Business philosophy: Making sure every customer is happy at the end of the day. That’s what makes us stand apart. Leader I admire: I don’t have a leader, per se. I have this idea of where I want to be, so I chase those dreams. Away from the job, I enjoy: Texas Hold ’Em. I’m also a truck enthusiast. Pet peeve: Lying and stealing.
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40 JASON WEST | 36 Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Owner of Caskey’s Mower Shop and Garden, Tavares. Greatest career accomplishment: Owning two businesses—I also have a landscape company—and still managing to have a family life. Business philosophy: Treat everybody as I would want to be treated. Do what you say you’re going to do. Leader I admire: My father. He taught me about having a strong work ethic and treating people with respect. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my kids, playing golf, welding and building stuff. Hidden talent: I’m a good golfer. In fact, I used to want to golf for a living. Pet peeve: Dishonesty.
LINDSEY HOUSE | 35
LEIGH ANN BERRY | 40 Current hometown: Oxford. Occupation: Owner of Prominent Fox Boutique, Oxford. My first job: A Winn-Dixie cashier at age 15. Greatest career accomplishment: It’s humbling to me to have women come to me and ask me what looks best on them! I love it when I can make them feel more confident or better about themselves. Business philosophy: Always have a smile, think outside the box, be unique, go the extra mile, value each customer and listen to their wants and needs. Leader I admire: My cousin Stephanie Carter Campbell, designer and founder of the Judith March brand. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with family and friends. Boating in Crystal River or the Keys. Pet peeve: People that drive slow in the fast lane!
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Current hometown: Oxford. Occupation: Hairstylist/salon owner of Main Street Hair Studio. My first job: Busing tables at a German restaurant. Business philosophy: Create a culture that people WANT to be a part of. Building a strong, confident team who support one another will create an environment that customers love to be around. Leader I admire: I don’t admire one leader in particular, more so, I watch techniques that different leaders use and try to use that knowledge in becoming a better leader myself. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my family and trying to chase down my 2-year-old! Hidden talent: I’m a soprano opera singer.
DR. JENNIFER PAUL | 35
BEN PAULUHN | 35 Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: President, Optimus Solar, Mount Dora. My first job: Tennis racket stringer—“The Racketman.” Greatest career accomplishment: Bringing hot water and renovated teacher houses to a boarding school in rural Eastern Cape, South Africa. Business philosophy: Transparency, honesty, professionalism. Serve others generously. Leader I admire: Abraham Lincoln. Away from the job, I enjoy: Cycling alongside my wife with our 2-year-old son in tow. Working on land conservation projects. Hidden talent: I am a 4-handicap in golf. Pet peeve: Tardiness.
GRANT GANNAWAY | 24 Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Customer relations manager at Vann Gannaway Chevrolet, Eustis. My first job: Publix. Greatest career accomplishment: Developing a new department to enhance the customer experience. Business philosophy: Empower your employees to ensure your customers have the best experience possible. Leader I admire: My dad. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my family. Hidden talent: I play the guitar. Pet peeve: Not giving 100 percent and negativity.
Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: Chiropractor at Etheredge Chiropractic. My first job: Associate chiropractor in Hoboken, New Jersey. Greatest career accomplishment: Being able to care for, contribute and grow with residents of The Villages community for more than six years. Business philosophy: Golden Rule. Treat others as you would want to be treated. Leader I admire: My mother, for always guiding me in the right direction, knowingly or unknowingly. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my family and friends, exercising, golfing, boating. Hidden talent: Cooking and grilling. Pet peeve: Negativity.
JUSTIN HUNTER | 39 Current hometown: Fruitland Park. Occupation: Owner of Hunter Signs, Leesburg. My first job: I started working for my dad’s lawn maintenance company during the summer when I was 9. Greatest career accomplishment: We just finished construction and moved into our new 6,000-squarefoot sign shop. Business philosophy: Treat your customers the way you would like to be treated. It’s amazing how smooth things run when you do this! Leader I admire: My dad. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my wife and three children. Hidden talent: If I told you, it wouldn’t be hidden anymore! Pet peeve: Wasting time.
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40 KEVIN YURASEK | 33
LAUREN FICKETT | 31
Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Director of strategic communications, Lake-Sumter State College. My first job: Host at Cracker Barrel restaurant as a teenager. Business philosophy: I’ve always resonated with and found motivation in the quote, “I didn’t say it was going to be easy, I said it was going to be worth it.” There’s something to be gained from every situation. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my friends, family and my dog, Macey. I particularly like exploring Florida for the variety of activities, sights and restaurants across the state. Hidden talent: People tell me I’m really good at listening and giving advice.
Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Realtor with Morris Realty and Investments, Leesburg. My first job: I worked at a copy and reprographics print shop. Greatest career accomplishment: During the last two years, I ranked in the top 2 percent of all agents in Lake and Sumter counties. Business philosophy: Learn the value of hard work by working hard. Leader I admire: Honestly, I don’t really aspire to be anyone in particular but to be the best version of me that people see love, kindness and Jesus in. Away from the job, I enjoy: Boating, camping and any other outdoor-related activity. Hidden talent: I can twirl a baton. Pet peeve: Being late.
LINDSEY MALLORY | 28 Current hometown: Umatilla. Occupation: Owner of SPRAY, a mobile tan spraying company. My first job: I worked with the Lake County Clerk of Courts. Greatest career accomplishment: Winning first place in Lake & Sumter Style’s “Best of the Best” contest in the category of “Tanning Salon.” It was an outstanding honor for the public to recognize my work. Business philosophy: Empower women to feel beautiful in their own skin. Leader I admire: Jessie James Decker. She is a mother, singer, fashion designer and owns multiple businesses. Hidden talent: Not only am I creative, I’m very good at marketing my business. Pet peeve: Ripping the label off water bottles.
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JOE WEST | 24
MICHAEL FRYMIER | 25
Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: Contractor/owner, West Construction Services, Mount Dora, and Pitch Perfect Roofing, Eustis. My first job: Strawberry picker. Greatest career accomplishment: Getting both my building contractor and roofing contractor licenses before age 23. Business philosophy: Good things come to those who work hard. Leader I admire: Dale West, my mentor and dad. Away from the job, I enjoy: Anything outdoors. Hidden talent: Guitar. Pet peeve: Slow internet.
Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: CEO and head technician of Computer Corner, Leesburg. My first job: TV, game console and computer repair at age 15. Greatest career accomplishment: The purchase of our office real estate and the acquisition of two local IT companies. Business philosophy: Skills help us do; values help us become. Leader I admire: Elon Musk, because of his entrepreneurial spirit and he is always looking ahead in the technology industry. Away from the job, I enjoy: Hunting, fishing and spending time with my wife and three children. Hidden talent: Singing. Pet peeve: Anything not shut and in its place, whether it be a cabinet door, microwave door or the shower curtain.
HUNTER MALLORY | 29 Current hometown: Umatilla. Occupation: Mobile automotive painter/All Touch Inc. My first job: Gator Harley-Davidson. Greatest career accomplishment: Starting All Touch Inc. Business philosophy: Quality over quantity. Leader I admire: My dad. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my wife and three kids, saltwater fishing, racing dirt go-karts. Hidden talent: I like to think I have a lot; my wife says I’m the jack-of-all-trades. Pet peeve: Unorganized work area.
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40 DR. JEFFREY GLOVER | 38
CHRIS MCCAIN | 37
Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Owner of Glover Chiropractic Clinic, Leesburg. My first job: River Acre’s Produce Market. Greatest career accomplishment: Being able to open my own clinic and serve my hometown. I really feel blessed to help people who are hurting. Business philosophy: Treat my patients like I would my family. Leader I admire: Theodore Roosevelt. He possessed many of the great qualities found in strong leaders. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with my wife and son and watching football and wrestling. I also enjoy hunting. Hidden talent: I can butcher any word in the English language. Pet peeve: Rudeness and disrespect.
Current hometown: Minneola. Occupation: Owner of Dancin’ Ballroom, Leesburg. My first job: Mowing lawns to save money for my first car. Greatest career accomplishment: Continuing the legacy of the dance studio that has been in Lake County since 1984. We are now the largest ballroom dance studio in Central Florida. Business philosophy: Investing in the lives of our students through dance to become the best version of themselves they can be. Leader I admire: Grant Cardone. Away from the job, I enjoy: Working on cars; being with my wife and kids. Hidden talent: I can talk like Donald Duck and play the piano. Pet peeve: I hate being late.
MICHAEL SOLIS | 32 Current hometown: Clermont. Occupation: Production manager/vehicle wrapper for Graphics Direct, Minneola. Greatest career achievement: Traveling across the country as a vehicle wrap installer and working with the top wrap companies in the United States. Business philosophy: Good work will equal return business. Leader I admire: My father, Carlos Solis. He built a business that I now manage … and a strong support system for my family. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending as much time as I can with my daughter and fiancée. Hidden talent: Being able to fix and build things. Pet peeve: When the Orlando Magic play poorly.
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LIZ CORNELL | 33 Current hometown: Okahumpka. Occupation: CEO/ Founder, TB Financial Group, Leesburg. My first job: Working at Panera. Greatest career accomplishment: Opening TB Financial Group. Business philosophy: Do the right thing, it will always come back. Leader I admire: My grandmother. Away from the job, I enjoy: Being a mom, riding my horses and anything on or around water. Hidden talent: I sing. Pet peeve: Gossip.
NICOLE BROUHARD | 35
TYLER BRANDEBURG | 25
Current hometown: Deer Island. Occupation: Vice principal at Cypress Ridge Elementary, Clermont. Greatest career accomplishment: Our school is the highest-achieving school in Lake County. We’ve been selected as a school of excellence by the state during my time as VP. Education philosophy: All children are unique and have the abilities to be successful, you just have to find out what they love and encourage them. Leader I admire: Former First Lady Barbara Bush. Her children and family were her No. 1 priority … but she was bold enough to stand for things on her own. Away from the job, I enjoy: Being on the water, ocean, lakes, with my family. Pet peeve: Lying.
Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Commercial risk advisor with Brown & Brown Insurance, Leesburg. My first job: I did summer labor at Electrical Services Inc. while in high school. Greatest career accomplishment: Being able to help clients navigate the insurance marketplace and finding the most appropriate coverage at the most competitive price. Leader I admire: My mom, Rosanne. She instilled a strong work ethic in me. Hidden talent: I volunteer for the Leesburg Lightning, the Leesburg Yellowjacket Booster Club and New Vision for Independence. I’m also a member of the 2019 Leadership of Lake class. Pet peeve: When people ask the same question twice because they don’t accept your first answer.
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40 SAMANTHA MERRITT | 38 BOBBY SCHULTE | 32 Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Owner of Triangle Lightning Protection Inc., Eustis. My first job: When I was a kid, I worked for my grandpa mowing grass and fixing irrigation systems. Greatest career accomplishment: The very first dollar I ever made; it made me appreciate and understand hard work. Business philosophy: “You just can’t beat the person who never gives up.”—Babe Ruth. Leader I admire: My dad and grandpa, who both instilled a great work ethic in me from a very young age. Away from the job, I enjoy: Shooting and hunting. Pet peeve: Bad drivers, bad windshield wipers.
ASHLEA MUDD | 23 Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Full-time business owner and manager of Southern Mudd Boutique, Leesburg. Greatest career accomplishment: Opening my very own business at the age of 21 was a huge accomplishment for me. If there’s anything I’ve learned from working in the business industry, it’s that you don’t just follow your dreams, you chase them! Because when you do, dreams do come true! Away from the job, I enjoy: Fishing and spending quality time with my friends and family. Hidden talent: I can whistle extremely loud with just my two fingers! Pet peeve: People who don’t say “Thank you” when you hold the door for them.
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Current hometown: Bushnell. Occupation: Realtor, Connie Mahan Real Estate Group. My first job: I worked as a waitress at the old Shoney’s in Wildwood when I was 16. Greatest career accomplishment: I was so proud to be named a multimillion-dollar producer in my first year of real estate. Business philosophy: Treat every client like family. Don’t make excuses, make it happen. Think big, start small. Leader I admire: Nikki Haley. Away from the job, I enjoy: I have two beautiful kids and a big Southern family that I host gatherings for as often as possible. Hidden talent: I have a knack for refinishing furniture. Pet peeve: One thing that truly gets under my skin is poor manners.
ANDREW LOFARO | 24 Current hometown: Fruitland Park. Occupation: Operations manager, St. Joseph Catholic Church. Business philosophy: My business philosophy is twofold: efficiency and empowerment; increasing efficiency among processes and empowering others to reach their highest potential go hand in hand and, in my experience, have and will always lead to the most successful business operation. Leader I admire: Most definitely President John F. Kennedy. Hidden talent: Most people may not know this, but I have been told that I am a pretty good dancer. Pet peeve: Lying. After all, “Honesty is the best policy.”
TIFFANY HENDERSON | 34 Current hometown: Apopka. Occupation: Lead public information officer for Lake County commissioners. My first job: TV news reporter for WILX News 10, an NBC affiliate in Lansing, Michigan. Greatest career accomplishment: I had the incredible honor of interviewing Archbishop Desmond Tutu during his visit to Michigan State University in 2009 while on assignment at my first TV news reporting job. Having the opportunity to meet and interview such an inspirational leader was a moment that I will never forget. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with family and traveling. Hidden talent: Golfing. Pet peeve: Typos in official documents.
ANTHONY RITTER | 30 Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Math and robotics teacher and robotics coach at Pinecrest Lakes Academy, Minneola. My first job: I worked at Cracker Barrel in Leesburg while I was in college. My first real job was teaching fourth grade at Beverly Shores Elementary, Leesburg. Education philosophy: Really engaging students and making them curious about learning. I think doing that will promote learning. Away from the job, I enjoy: Going to see movies and reading, spending time with my significant other. Hidden talent: I sing with an adult choir. Pet peeve: Talking in the theater.
ELISHA PAPPACODA | 40 Current hometown: Sorrento. Occupation: CEO and founder of Coda Communications. My first job: Reporter for a weekly newspaper in Brooklyn. Greatest career accomplishment: Accepting the Florida Public Relations Association Golden Image Award on behalf of myself and my team for a project which partnered multiple agencies to benefit shelter pets. Business philosophy: Anyone can have a great idea, but strategy, consistency and execution are the keys to success. Leader I admire: Condoleezza Rice. Away from the job, I enjoy: Traveling, kayaking, painting and spending time with my husband and our sweet dog, Lucy. Hidden talent: Nursing foster pets back to health. Pet peeve: Indecision and loud chewing!
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40 LENA WILLIAMS | 38 Current hometown: Lady Lake. Occupation: Morris Realty and Investments Realtor, Leesburg. My first job: In high school, working for the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce and Publix. Greatest career accomplishment: I was honored to be the 2016 Realtor of the Year for Lake and Sumter Counties. But I am most proud of Humanitarian of the Year for 2017. I am passionate about giving back and I love helping the community. Business philosophy: Integrity and honesty. Leader I admire: I admire my mother’s real estate experience and talent over the years. I have learned a lot from her. Away from the job, I enjoy: My family! We love camping at Disney, too! Hidden talent: Piano (probably not well anymore). Pet peeve: Dishonesty and Facebook political arguments drive me crazy!
BEN BOYLSTON | 38 Current hometown: Clermont. Occupation: Attorney and owner of the Law Office of Ben Boylston, P.A. My first job: I worked as an intern at Graves and Spivey, P.A., in Tavares. Greatest career accomplishment: Being able to start my own firm in 2016. I love doing my own thing, and it has worked out well. Business philosophy: Treating people with respect pays off in the long run. Leader I admire: My father, Richard “Red” Boylston, a judge in Lake County for 20 years. He set me on my current path. Away from the job, I enjoy: I love college football and am a big fan of the Michigan Wolverines. That’s where I earned my undergraduate degree in psychology. Hidden talent: I am dominant at Scrabble. Pet peeve: People who are constantly late.
BRIAN CLARK | 33 Current hometown: Eustis. Occupation: Restaurant manager/ competitive oyster shucker at the Oyster Troff, Eustis. My first job: The Oyster Troff at 12 years old. Greatest career accomplishment: 2018 U.S. National Oyster Shucking Champ. Ranked fifth in the world at the world competition in Ireland. Business philosophy: Be consistent and do things right the first time. Away from the job, I enjoy: I love spending time with my four awesome kids, Lacy, Sawyer, Lane and Gannon, and my amazing wife, Jessica. Hidden talent: I’m a certified chef by trade. Pet peeve: People that don’t put in their fair share of work at the restaurant.
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JESSY FLINN | 35 ALEXANDRIA (ALI) BIAS | 32 Current hometown: Mount Dora. Occupation: Owner and creative director at AP Design, Mount Dora. My first job: I was a lifeguard at my community pool when I was a teenager. Greatest career accomplishment: Abruptly switching careers a bit late in the game, going back to design school and then successfully building a design and marketing career. Sometimes quitting is the best thing you can do. Business philosophy: Curate relationships carefully. Be honest, be kind, be yourself and do your best to surround yourself with people who share your values. Leader I admire: Leslie Knope. Away from the job, I enjoy: Singing barbershop. I am a member of O-Town Sound Chorus and Speakeasy Quartet. Hidden talent: I speak fluent French.
Current hometown: Leesburg. Occupation: Chef, co-owner of Gourmet Today, Leesburg. My first job: I made subs at a sub shop. Greatest career accomplishment: Creating a family dynamic. I have 16 people on staff now, and we’re a giant family. Business philosophy: Our motto from Day 1 has been “Rare service well done.” I want every single person who I serve to feel like they’re my only client. Leader I admire: Stephen Wolgamott, worship pastor, First Baptist Leesburg. Away from the job, I enjoy: Live music. My husband and I love to go hear jazz and R&B. Pet peeve: Not finding joy in your day. Life is so short to be angry and upset.
JOSHUA OLCOTT | 37 Current hometown: Lady Lake. Occupation: Owner/chiropractor at Olcott Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Lady Lake; co-owner/chiropractor at Greater Orlando Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Winter Garden. My first job: Vet tech. Greatest career accomplishment: Opening my initial location from scratch and then expanding and opening my second. Business philosophy: Take care of your staff and they will take care of you. Leader I admire: Sir Richard Branson. Away from the job, I enjoy: Spending time with son, friends and girlfriend, usually at the theme parks. Hidden talent: MarioKart (just ask my son, ha!) Pet peeve: Greed and drivers that sit in the left-hand lane.
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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 • J A N ' 2 0
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR! PLAN YOUR TRIP! BE SEEN IN LAKE AND SUMTER! | EVENTS. TRAVEL. PEOPLE.
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THE TO-DO LIST What’s happening this month.
BOOK CLUB “Chakra Crystals” by Dr. Kate Tomas.
LOCAL TALENT Hope Barton guides a unique art gallery.
SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT “Cracked Mirrors” series hits home.
HI, SOCIETY! See who is stepping out at events around town.
THE TO-DO LIST
jan. 2020
JAN
18
EVENT
Masters of variety Ladies and gentlemen, step right up and prepare to be amazed by the Great DuBois. This unique two-person circus show stars Michael DuBois and Viktoria Grimmy performing incredible feats of juggling, circus stunts, magic, contortion, unicycling and aerial acts. Can a bearded lady be far behind? Jan. 18 @ 7pm / Clermont Performing Arts Center, 3700 S. Highway 27 clermontperformingarts.com
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JAN
7
STAGE
MASTER OF HIS DOMAIN Jason Alexander is best known for his role of George Costanza on the legendary “Seinfeld” TV show. But now the award-winning star of stage and screen is touring in a one-man show, “As Long As You’re Asking – A Conversation with Jason Alexander.” George, uh, Jason presents an evening of comedy, music, conversation, yada yada yada. Jan. 7 @ 5&8pm / The Sharon, 1051 Main St., The Villages thesharon.com
JAN
FESTIVAL
Did you hear the one about …
23-26
jan.ON STAGE Enjoy quality entertainment on the many stages of Lake and Sumter counties.
Storytelling concerts, workshops, swapping grounds, open mic, a story slam contest and a story cruise around Lake Dora all are part of the 36th annual Florida Storytelling Festival. The event attracts nationally recognized and statewide storytellers. It’s like audiobooks in person.
1/15 @ 7pm NEIL SEDAKA The Sharon, 1051 Main St., The Villages
1/15 @ 6pm “THE DONNA & DUNNING SHOW” Mount Dora Plaza Live, 2728 W. Old Highway 441
Jan. 23-26 @ various times / Lakeside Inn, 100 N. Alexander St., Mount Dora flstory.com/festival
1/17-2/9 @ various times “BILOXI BLUES” Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora
LO O KIN G AHE AD
FEB
BREAKFAST IN RED
1/24-2/9 @ various times
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“BASKERVILLE: A SHERLOCK HOLMES MYSTERY” Melon Patch Theatre, 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg
This free event, which celebrates American Heart Month in February, is presented by Leesburg Regional Medical Center in partnership with the American Heart Association. Keynote speaker Michelle Wood, MD, will talk about women’s heart health. A hot breakfast also will be served. Grab a friend, find a red blouse and call 352.323.7777 to RSVP. Space is limited.
1/24-2/16 @ various times “THE DROWSY CHAPERONE” Moonlight Players Theatre, 735 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont
1/24-2/16 @ 2pm or 8pm “THE FANTASTICKS” Bay Street Players, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis
Jan. 31 @ 7:30pm HERMAN’S HERMITS STARRING PETER NOONE Clermont Performing Arts Center, 3700 S. Highway 27
Feb. 6 @ 9am / Venetian Center, 1 Dozier Court, Leesburg centralfloridahealth.org
ONGOI NG EV ENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation.
EVERY MON
EVERY TUE/SAT
EVERY THU
EVERY SAT
1ST MON
Webster’s Farmer’s Market 6am2pm, 524 North Market Blvd., Webster
Lady Lake Farmer’s Market 9am-2pm, Lady Lake Log Cabin, 106 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27
Lake County Farmers & Flea Market 8am-1pm, Fairgrounds, 2101 N. CR 452, Eustis
Brownwood Farmer’s Market 9am-2pm, 2726 Brownwood Blvd., Wildwood
Senior Shakedown 1-3pm, Tavares Civic Center, 100 E. Caroline St.
3RD WED
PAWS Reading Dogs W.T. Bland Library, Mount Dora.
3RD THU
Mount Dora Food Trucks downtown Mount Dora.
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THE TO-DO LIST
jan.JAMS Move to the beat of one of your favorite performers at one of these great concerts or local venues!
1/5 @ 2:30pm
1/22 @ 7pm
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
SIBERIAN STATE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Sharon, The Villages
1/8 @ 7:30pm
1/23 @ 7:30pm
JEFF WHITFIELD Ruby Street Grille, Tavares
MARK Z Ruby Street Grille, Tavares
1/9 @ 7pm THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS The Sharon, The Villages
1/10 @ 7pm Bobby Blackmon
JAN
4
THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS The Sharon, The Villages
1/10 @ 7:30pm
EVENT
THE ISAACS Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
We’ll drink to that
1/11 @ 1pm SEAN GASKEL Leesburg Public Library, Leesburg
The popular Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards Winter Music Series is back with live music on an outdoor stage, as well as inside at the Wine & Cheese Bar. The musicians include: the Dave Capp Project with France Neil, Jan. 4; Beautiful Bobby Blackmon & the B3 Blues Band, Jan. 11; Mike Quick Band, Jan. 18; and Shawline, Jan. 25. Top off the music with Lakeridge wine, beer, food and tours.
THE BAND 2PM Ruby Street Grille, Tavares PAUL THORN Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
1/25 @ 6pm ALAN KENDALL Croom-A-Coochee Baptist Church, Webster
1/26 @ 2:30pm
SUZY BOGGUSS Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
1/28 @ 7pm THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Sharon, The Villages
1/17 @ 8pm THE ACCUZED Ruby Street Grille, Tavares
1/29 @ 7:30pm
1/17 @ 9pm
JEFF WHITFIELD Ruby Street Grille, Tavares
BAR FLY Oasis Saloon, Sorrento
1/18 @ 2:30pm and 7:30pm SHA NA NA Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
1/18 @ 9pm
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
1/25 @ 2:30pm and 7:30pm
1/26 @ 7:30pm
1/12 @ 7:30pm
Let us help you get the word out!
THE TAP PACK The Sharon, The Villages
HIGHWAY 101 Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
1/11 @ 8pm
Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25 @ noon-4pm / 19239 U.S. Highway 27 N., Clermont lakeridgewinery.com
1/24 @ 7pm
1/31 @ 7pm CONFEDERATE RAILROAD Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale
2/3 @ 7pm KANSAS The Sharon, The Villages
BAR FLY Oasis Saloon, Sorrento
1/19 @ 7:30pm DEFENDERS OF DAISIES Ruby Street Grille, Tavares
1ST FRI
Street Party Downtown Eustis, 6-10pm
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Night Market 5th and Magnolia Streets, Leesburg, 5-8pm
2ND FRI
Art in the Alley Features artists and performers on the sidewalks of downtown Mount Dora, 6-8pm
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Open House 6-8pm Mount Dora History Museum, 450 Royellou Lane
Movie in the Park Free family movie starts at dusk in Donnelly Park, downtown Mount Dora.
1ST SAT
2ND SAT
Wine Tasting Stroll 6-8pm, Starts at Maggie’s Attic on Alexander Street and 4th Avenue.
Food Truck N Flick Night Entertainment, Leesburg Towne Square.
4TH SAT
Classic Car Cruise-In downtown Eustis.
BOOK CLUB
REVIEW
‘Chakra Crystals’ By Dr. Kate Tomas. A detailed guide to chakras and crystal meditation. STORY: VICTORIA SCHLABIG
n Dr. Kate Tomas’ meditation guide, “Chakra Crystals: Promote Balance and Self-healing Through Crystal Meditations,” she leads people who are both new and experienced through the exploration of meditating with crystals. The book includes a small bag and each of the seven chakra crystals. So, what are chakras? Well, the chakra system is part of the human energy system and has its roots in an ancient and rigorous spiritual tradition developed in India thousands of years ago. The chakra system was developed through defining how crystals affect different parts of the body. Different crystals have different “vibrations,” and our bodies are made up of vibrating matter; our chakras being the centers for this vibrating matter. Keeping our seven chakras clear and at their proper vibration frequency will create a strong sense of health and balance on physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels. Throughout the guide, Kate, who also is a psychic and a witch, explains each chakra’s energy, proximity to the physical body and corresponding crystal. Understanding our auras and
Ready to delve into this book?
chakras can improve our quality of life and help prevent disease and illness. The term “aura” is used to explain the parts of a human being that cannot be seen with the naked eye and need to be sensed or felt. The author describes the human aura as being layered like an onion, having physical, emotional, mental and astral (spiritual) levels. When a person becomes more aware of their energy, they seem to become more sensitive on all levels. Each guided meditation in this book provides the reader with a descriptive and specific place in nature, giving imagery, sounds and feelings to fill the senses so they can empty their mind of stress and remain in a place of peace. Kate recommends doing the meditations in the order of how the book is organized to receive the optimal benefits of the guide. The detailed information she gives about each chakra and each crystal makes the material easy to understand for anyone with even a minimal knowledge of the subject. Overall, this guide was very informative and explained meditation in a comprehensive way, especially to people who are new to meditation and crystals.
This book can be found at amazon.com and goodreads.com
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LOCAL TALENT
PEO PLE
She’s a natural Artist Hope Barton features Florida scenery at her Clermont gallery. STORY: CHRIS GERBASI
≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER
lorida’s natural beauty is recognized worldwide, so it’s no wonder that an artist would want to capture it. Hope Barton, for example, has a simple motivation behind her artwork. “I like swamps,” she says. “The palm trees and cypress trees, the part of Florida that nobody sees when they come down 75 or 95. I like the real, old native Florida.” An ideal locale to find “real Florida” is Suwannee on the Gulf Coast, where Hope and her husband, Ed, have a place. She takes photographs there and works from them to paint realistic landscapes in green, brown and orange
acrylics. Since August, she’s had a new venue to display those scenes, the Hope Barton Fine Arts Studio and Gallery at 647 Lake Ave. in Clermont. The gallery, located in a house built in 1915, opened after six months of renovations. In addition to displaying the work of several talented artists from the area, Hope also paints in the space—often while watching movies on Netflix. Hope has hosted a show by the South Lake Art League, an exhibition titled, “A Celebration of Light and Color,” by Leesburg artist Sharon Repple and workshops for budding artists. “I’m doing this by the seat of my pants actually,” says Hope, a former printmaker. “I think what I’d like to do is have a workshop a month. I want to invite some artists from Orlando that I know. I used to do the show circuit all over the state, the big juried shows, so I know a lot of fine artists.”
The gallery displays pottery, glasswork, jewelry, watercolors, acrylics and crafts. The walls are also filled with her work, such as “Stormy Day at the Beach” from near St. Augustine, “Demry Creek,” a forest of cypress along a creek, and her latest, “Grasses and Reflections,” a Suwannee marsh scene that is an impressionistic departure for Hope. This studio is a sequel to one she owned from 1997-2002 at Montrose and 7th streets in Clermont. She later moved to St. Augustine, where she found a home for her artwork in galleries, hospitals and health centers. The couple returned to Clermont in 2017 and downsized, leaving Hope looking for new studio space. “My original vision was just to have a little place for me and my artwork,” she says. But those plans may be growing like a cypress on the Suwannee River.
IF YOU GO
What: Open house for “Florida Fields and Trees,” by Gainesville artist Linda Blondheim. When: 2-5pm Jan. 26. Where: Hope Barton Fine Arts Studio and Gallery, 647 Lake Ave., Clermont.
Do you know talented people in the community?
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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 • J A N ' 2 0
Send recommendations to chris@akersmediagroup.com.
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SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
A hard look in the mirror ‘Cracked Mirrors’ web series, produced in Lake County, will reflect today’s social issues. STORY: JAMES COMBS
3 2 5
4
1 1-5: Lisa Donaldson (Production Manager), T.J. McCarthy (Cinematographer, Glenn Knight (Music Composer), Jann Knight (Main Actress), and Jenn Utsey (Main Actress)
living hell. That’s how Lori Bajares, of Eustis, describes a five-year period of her life in the early 1980s while living in Texas. Her bruises and black eyes were the result of an unhappy marriage to a physically and verbally abusive husband. She spent some days hiding in a closet and spent some nights being abruptly awoken with a knife to her throat. “He’d hit me all the time,” she somberly recalls. “And if he didn’t like my outfit, he’d reach for a pair of scissors and begin cutting it off.” After leaving him by fleeing to Florida, Lori decided to become an advocate for victims of domestic violence. She has conducted fundraisers to support Haven of Lake and Sumter Counties, which provides shelter, food, counseling and clothing to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Now, she plans to shed light on that issue and other societal problems while reaching a greater audience. Lori is producing “Cracked Mirrors,” a YouTube web series of short movies featuring four women between the ages of 20 and 50 who interact and help each other while facing difficult life circumstances. The scenes for each episode are shot inside Lori’s living room. The first episode of “Cracked Mirrors” will
“WE’RE PUTTING AWARENESS OUT TO THE PUBLIC ABOUT THESE IMPORTANT TOPICS .” —LISA DONALDSON
be screened Jan. 21 at Epic Theaters, 2300 Spring Harbor Blvd. in Mount Dora. During the ticket-only event, representatives from United Way and Haven will talk about services their organizations offer and why they support “Cracked Mirrors.” Other guest speakers will include Mount Dora Police Chief Robert Bell and former Mount Dora Mayor Nick Girone. For tickets, call Lori at 352.504.5745. “This should be a great event because I’m able to bring our communities together for a day and show them how we’re going to reach people around the world,” Lori says. The series’ first season, which runs from January through December, will include six 30-minute episodes focusing on different topics: domestic violence, drug abuse, prescription drug abuse, sex trafficking, suicide and gender confusion. LIGHTS. CAMERA. ACTION.
Although “Cracked Mirrors” marks Lori’s first attempt at being a producer, she brings acting experience to the project. In 2013, her sister entered her in a talent
contest at Volusia Mall in Daytona Beach as a joke. Thing is, Lori wasn’t joking around. She knew winning would give her a much larger platform to be a domestic violence spokeswoman. During the contest, she dressed as Nancy Sinatra and sang “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” Judges awarded her first place, and she received a one-year contract with an agent in Miami. In the following years, Lori landed a cameo role as a villain in a “MacGyver” TV episode and appeared in commercials for the Home Shopping Network and WKMG-TV News 6 in Orlando. “I never attended acting school but when I had those parts, I really enjoyed expressing myself through another character,” she says. Experiencing the power of acting is what inspired Lori to produce “Cracked Mirrors” and bring social issues to light in a different platform. “I originally thought about doing a talk show, but then I realized there are plenty of talk shows out there that focus on these issues,” she says. “With ‘Cracked Mirrors,’ people can visually see it and
connect with a character who’s more like them.” She obtained the help of industry professionals to assist her with the project. One is T.J. McCarthy IV, of Orlando. He served as director of the short film “The Execution of Dr. Martin Luther King” and as cinematographer of the television series “Meet the Familia.” For music composer, she landed Orlando native Glenn Knight, who has been performing since childhood and released his first album at age 17. Lori also uses Lake County residents in the production. Glenn’s mother, Jann Knight, of Eustis, plays one of the four main characters. She possesses a love of musical theater and has sung at various women’s conferences. “I’m proud to be part of this because I want people who are suffering to know that help is available and they don’t have to live a life of suffering,” Jann says. Production manager Lisa Donaldson, of Tavares, is a domestic violence survivor whose story is the inspiration behind the first episode. “We’re putting awareness out to the public about these important topics,” Lisa says. “I know how difficult it is to deal with domestic violence, and that’s why I’m passionate to help out in any way I can.” Each “Cracked Mirrors” episode will conclude with a display of phone numbers that people can call for help. For more information, visit crackedmirrors.wix.com/ crackedmirrors.
Want to see your event in Social Spotlight? Contact us at least three months in advance and provide all the details to james@akersmediagroup.com.
JAMES COMBS
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HI, SOCIETY!
See all the photos for this event at lakeandsumterstyle.com/hisociety
Ashley Tomayo with Lake Firefighter Charities Doyle Fulkerson
Mike Henry
Iris Jarreau and JR Retzlaff
E 'S WHER ?! M Y P IC
Brandon Hartley and Daisy Lowery Tom Stewart
Erika Pavelko and Maria Rivera
PI N K BR A RIDE ≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER. Florida Trikers Association and Stormy Hill Harley-Davidson know how to have fun for a worthy cause: Pink Bra Ride for a Cure. Men and women were decked out in pink bras Oct. 26 as they left the Clermont motorcycle dealership and rode to Lake Harris Hideaway in Tavares. The inaugural event was a fundraiser for the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation.
@ LAKE HARRIS HIDEAWAY
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Julia, Jordan, and Pam Keller
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ADJACENT TO THE VILLAGES ® COMMUNITY:
MOUNT DORA | LEESBURG |
RETINA
|
CO S M E T I C
STONECREST & WILDWOOD ® |
G L AU CO M A
|
L A SE R S
HI, SOCIETY!
Sheriff’s Charity President Chris De Libro, Robert Bell, and Clermont Police Chief, Chuck Broadway
Mayor Cathy Hoechst and Susan Gieger
Dana Ostrom and Gabrielle Ganas
Nanci Schwartz, Marc RobertzSchwartz, and Mary Rhodes
Joseph Berube and Trinity Mercer Billie Jo Harrelson and Joe Nelson from the Alibi Band
SHERIFF’S STELLAR SOCIAL @ LAKE RECEPTIONS
≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL.
Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell’s second annual Boots, Buckles and Badges gala Nov. 8 at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora was a successful sellout event of more than 500 guests and about $140,000 raised to benefit the sheriff ’s charities of Shop with a Cop and Project Kids Connect, as well as support several community organizations, a scholarship fund and families in need. “We exceeded what we raised the first year by more than $30,000,” says Kristy Marden, of the sheriff ’s office. “We have a very giving community.”
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Alissa Sustarsic, Linda Tucker, Jennifer Grinnell, and Robin Paquette
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Don Richarson, Rachael Hotaling, Halo Ascolese, Eliana Ascolese, and Yvette Cruz
Lindsay Warren and Lindsay Collins
Madison Colby and Kristen Davis
Justin McCurry and Bianca Gentry
Haley Maxwell, Amanda Mathieu, and Yael Kern
Charlyn Watts and Pamela Buckley
Megan Anderson, Chris Anderson, Brian Schmit, and Kerri Schmit
TA S T E O F S O U T H L A K E ≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER. Waterfront Park in Clermont was the site Nov. 7 for the sellout Taste of South Lake, a premier restaurant and business expo in South Lake County filled with business vendors, music and signature dishes from more than 30 restaurants. The winners: Clermont Oyster Bar, best appetizer; Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ, best entrée; Clermont Brewing Company, best drink; Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant, people’s choice; and city of Clermont, best decorated booth.
@ WATERFRONT PARK, CLERMONT
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Tanya Ruhl and Curt Ruhl
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RETIREMENT SALE! 70 %
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Dear Customers, It has been a great honor and pleasure to have served you the past 30+ years. Thank you! However the time has come for me to tend to my health and my family more than ever. This Retirement Sale, our biggest sale yet, will be held in our beloved store located in the downtown square of Ocala and must liquidate all of our inventory. Please come in early for the best selection and unbelievable savings on these magnificent, hand-made rugs, personally handpicked from all over the world.
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A RT O F T H E D E A L @ MOUNT DORA PLAZA ≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER. The 20th annual Art of the Deal fundraiser hosted Nov. 2 at Mount Dora Plaza Live featured a catered dinner by Pisces Rising, open bar, dancing, live and silent auctions, gaming tables, entertainment by the Queens of Broadway and live painting by Wendy Rose, an oil finger painter. The silent auction included art donated by artists from the Mount Dora Arts Festival and donations from area merchants.
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Mario Guiterrez and Lavonte Rogers Michael and Sheila Amiot
Melissa, Andrea, and Yvonne Compton Christin Coon and Shannon Pastular
Heather Harris, Skylar Cutter, and Jeremy Martinez
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Sabas and Kelly Ganiban
Kaylee Allen and Sierra Palfrey
HEAR YE! HEAR YE! @ LAKE IDAMERE PARK, TAVARES ≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER. Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire generated crowds of thousands the first two weekends of November at Lake Idamere Park in Tavares. This 12th annual fundraiser for the Education Foundation of Lake County benefits teachers and students. Organizer Carmen Cullen-Batt noted the event provided a $2 million economic impact for Lake County, and it’s also the fastest-growing festival in the county.
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Russell Sanborn, Ron Young, Ross Edmundson, Juan Ortiz
Ross Moore, David Bishop, and Flor Putigna
John Pease, Bill Brooks Josh Rogers and Chip Gannaway Russell Hefley, David Melvin, Neil Sargent and Brandon Veronee Larry Baker, Steve Thornhill, Steve Tang and Nick Ungson
GOLF CLASSIC ≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER. AdventHealth Waterman Foundation hosted its 26th annual Partners in Health Care Golf Classic Nov. 1 at RedTail Golf Club in Sorrento. Contests of holein-one, par 5, golf ball cannon and 50/50 putting were among the day’s activities for the amateur golfers, all in support of raising funds for emergency services at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares.
@ LAKE RECEPTIONS
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DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW FOR YOUR KITCHEN, GET THE SCOOP ON EATING OUT, AND TOAST THE WINE! | FOOD. DRINKS. REVIEWS.
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IN THE KITCHEN Arisa Kusami Sullivan serves Japanese dishes.
FORK ON THE ROAD Chop House is not chopped liver.
SPIRITS Oak Haven Farms is as sweet as wine.
DINING GUIDE Restaurants to engage any appetite.
台 所 に
IN THE KITCHEN
Arisa Kusumi Sullivan presenting her Pad Thai dish
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RECIPE
Singing in the kitchen Howey Mansion’s artistic director and opera singer cooks healthy Japanese dishes. STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL
≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER
Food chat with Arisa Strive to be health conscious: Being a performer and mom in my 40s, I am very health conscious, not only because I want to be as healthy and fit as possible for my public career, but also because I want to be a mom that can be active and live a long time for my two children, ages 8 and 12. My thoughts on healthy eating: I have always eaten relatively healthy for my whole life. My parents are Japanese, and we ate a lot of Japanese food at home, which is naturally healthy. Japanese people are known for their longevity and are some of the oldest people in the world. I actually feel more uncomfortable indulging in too much fatty food, and I prefer to live a healthy lifestyle. For my family’s sake and mine, I generally choose local, fresh, organic and/ or hormone/pesticide-free whenever I can.
Indulging now and then: I am
s executive and artistic director of the Howey Mansion Music Series in Howey-in-the-Hills, Arisa Kusumi Sullivan organizes concerts at the mansion and balances it with her active career as a light lyric soprano opera singer. She has sung in more than 300 opera performances throughout the United States, Europe and Mexico and is a regular adjudicator for international voice competitions. Arisa also relishes being creative in the kitchen. “I love cooking and, yes, sometimes I do sing as I cook,” says Arisa, who agreed to share her favorite recipes with Style.
health conscious year-round, but I still believe in enjoying the good things in life. I try not to deprive myself of things, especially around the holidays when there is so much good food to be had.
Guilty food pleasure: My main weakness is carbs. I love rice and pasta.
When feeding my children: I try to avoid giving too much processed or colored food to my kids. I also tell my kids to limit the amount of sugar they take in on a daily basis (special occasions are exceptions), because that can be quite a lot of work for your pancreas and can send you on a blood sugar roller coaster.
Food rule I live by: My general rule is a popular saying in the Greek culture: “Everything in moderation.” When you avoid depriving yourself, you are better able to prevent overindulgence. So, letting yourself have a moderate amount of this or that seems to be a good rule to live by.
IN THE KITCHEN
“I AM HEALTH CONSCIOUS YEARROUND, BUT I STILL BELIEVE IN ENJOYING THE GOOD THINGS IN LIFE.” — A R I S A K U S U M I S U L L I VA N
PA D T H A I INGREDIENTS
8
ounces wide rice noodles
1
tablespoon lime juice
1
tablespoon orange juice
2
tablespoons brown sugar
2
tablespoons fish sauce
1
tablespoon rice vinegar
14
/
teaspoon paprika
2
tablespoons vegetable oil
1
bell pepper, thinly sliced
2
cloves garlic, minced
2
eggs, lightly whisked
1
lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
2
green onions, thinly sliced
/
cup roasted peanuts, chopped
14
freshly ground black pepper chopped cilantro (optional)
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DIRECTIONS
Soak noodles in warm water until they are softened and flexible. Drain. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, brown sugar, fish sauce and vinegar. Set aside. Heat oil in a large nonstick pan (preferably a wok) over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and green onions and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side.
Push the shrimp and vegetables to one side of the pan and pour in the egg. Scramble until just set, then mix with the shrimp and vegetables. Add the softened noodles, the fish sauce mixture and paprika. Toss gently until the noodles are coated and cover for two minutes, tossing the noodles intermittently until soft and they have absorbed the liquid mixture. Serve the noodles on a large platter and garnish with roasted peanuts (add chopped cilantro if desired) before serving.
Music at the mansion The Howey Mansion Music Series was founded in 2018 as a nonprofit organization to bring classical and jazz music artists to the mansion. Arisa has arranged for concerts March 8 and April 16. To learn more, visit howeymusicseries.org.
A S I A N P O K É B OW L INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups sushi rice cooked and steamed (cooked ideally in a rice cooker or instant pot) 2
tablespoons sushi vinegar (or 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of sugar)
12
/
cup frozen shelled edamame
1
scallion, thinly sliced
1
tablespoon fresh lime juice
1
tablespoon fresh orange juice
1
tablespoon of mirin (sweet rice wine)
1
tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1
tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1
teaspoon pickled ginger sliced thinly (from the jar)
1
lb. sushi-grade tuna, cut into 1/2 inch cubes (substitute with sushi-grade salmon, smoked salmon or cooked beef/chicken to taste)
12
/
English cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
12
/
sheet of sushi nori finely sliced with kitchen scissors into 1-inch strips
1
tablespoon of canned fried onions (optional) toasted sesame seeds for topping
JA PA N E S E HAMBAHGU (HAMBURGER S T E A K)
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
Mix together all of the steamed rice with the sushi vinegar mixture in a large, wide and flat bowl and allow to cool to body temperature. Make sure not to mix the rice too much or it will become gummy. Mix the rice with a rice paddle or flat wooden spatula in vertical strokes for best results. Meanwhile, mix the lime juice, orange juice, mirin, soy sauce and sesame oil in a separate bowl, stirring well. Once the rice has cooled to body temperature, place the rice in a deep individual bowl or rice bowl. Fill the bowl to about 3/4 full of the rice. Carefully arrange the raw tuna cubes (or your choice of meat), the cucumber, pickled ginger and edamame neatly and artistically on top of the rice in sections. Pour the soy sauce mixture on top of the bowl ingredients. Then sprinkle the nori, sesame seeds and scallion (and optionally canned fried onions) on top to finish. Eat immediately after preparation to keep the fish fresh.
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cup Panko bread crumb
14
/
cup milk
2
lbs. ground turkey dark meat (or lean ground beef)
1
medium onion, chopped fine
1
egg
12
/
teaspoon salt
1
teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1-2 teaspoons oil pepper SAUCE 12
/
cup ketchup
14
/
cup Worcestershire sauce
2
tablespoons soy sauce
/
cup of water
14
Put Panko in a large bowl, add milk and stir. Add meat, onion, egg, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce to the Panko mixture. Mix with your hands well. Divide the meat into 8 parts and form into hamburger patties about 1.5-inches thick. Push an indentation into the middle with your thumb. Heat oil in a frying pan at medium temperature, place the patties in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on one side until browned. Flip over and fry for 2-3 minutes covered and brown on the other side. Meanwhile, mix ketchup, water, soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Uncover the pan, add the ketchup mixture and simmer on medium heat until the liquid becomes a thick and tasty sauce (gravy consistency). Serve with hot white rice.
Hey, readers! Do you have a favorite dish or memorable cooking story? Tell me about it! Email me at theresa@akersmediagroup.com
THERESA CAMPBELL
J A N ' 2 0 • 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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FORK ON THE ROAD
REVIEWS
A house becomes a home Chop House turns fortunes at revolvingdoor location in The Villages. STORY: CHRIS GERBASI
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≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER
he restaurant at 1045 Old Camp Road in The Villages seems to change hands with the regularity of a busboy clearing tables. The building has been home to TGI Friday’s, Honest John’s, Guy Fieri’s Kitchen, maybe Dairy Queen at some point. Maybe not. But the latest entry in the restaurant-go-round may have staying power. Chop House at Lake Sumter, which opened in July, is a high-end venture by Fred Karimipour, who has nearly 40 years in the industry. He’s the owner of Fresh Made Kitchen, the parent company of Chop House and six other restaurants in The Villages: Bluefin Grill & Bar, Orange Blossom Hills, Evans Prairie, Belle Glade and Bonifay country clubs and Scooples Ice Cream Parlor. Fred also is a resident of The Villages, so he knows a thing or two about creating an ideal dining experience for Villagers. In the case of Chop House, he started with a radical redesign of Guy Fieri’s bro-centric vibe. Gone are the giant wall paintings of the Fieri restaurant logos and the loud environment. Chop House’s elegant décor includes chandeliers, ceiling-to-floor drapery, tasteful modern art, lamps on a restructured cocktail bar, comfy upholstered chairs and white linens, as well as booths and a dividing wall between the dining area and bar that provide a little more privacy. Patio dining also is available. But there’s a price to pay for comfort, and that price can be found on the menu. Chop House is not chopped liver, after all. While most of the items are not outrageously priced, some diners may want to find a new market when they find out the market price is $48 for a Delmonico steak or $46 for a prime New York strip. Villagers are known to be fairly affluent, however, and Fred says the community’s response to Chop House has been overwhelmingly positive. “We have raised the ceiling in terms of standards in our Bluefin and our Chop House concepts, and it’s been well-received,”
says Fred, whose personal favorite is the prime New York Strip—every time. “Villagers are looking for a value. As long as your product and your service reach the standard of what you charge for and you provide a value, you’ll be fine.” Like Fred, you can’t go to a place called Chop House and not order a chop or a steak, right? During a recent visit one evening, the 9-ounce filet mignon had a delicious chargrilled flavor and was as lean as a Villages Zumba instructor. The side of seasoned rice was cooked perfectly, and the roasted mushrooms were a surprise bonus, popping with fresh flavor. A thick, creamy Swiss-cheddar fondue topped the sides but not the steak—don’t ever mess with the steak.
One of the more unique items on the menu has to be the lamb sausage croquettes. Chopped lamb, chopped mild sausage, russet mashed potatoes and chèvre (goat cheese) are combined in six fried, crunchy croquettes. The sausage, though mild, stood out, and mashed potatoes should be combined with every food item at every meal. Why didn’t somebody think of this before? The dipping sauce of horseradish crème fraîche (sour cream) was a plus. The menu includes other uncommon items such as mini beef Wellington appetizers, short rib tacos, lobstah mac & cheese, veal porterhouse and salmon
of Chop House. It’s a simple formula, he says. “You’ve got to come in every day and perform,” Fred says. “As long as you’re consistent, as long as you’re performing, you have nothing to worry about.” And he dismisses any suggestion of
A DIJON AIOLI ELEVATED THE SANDWICH FROM GOOD TO “MMM, MMM GOOD.”
The smoked gouda chicken sandwich comes either wood-fired or blackened. The sandwich included a large, tender chicken breast topped with the usual suspects of peppered bacon, lettuce, tomato, purple onion and gooey gouda on a toasted brioche. A Dijon aioli elevated the sandwich from good to “Mmm, mmm good.”
bearnaise, in addition to a full lineup of pork chops, pasta, steak-and-lobster combos and other seafood. Fred says the foundation of FMK’s success is hospitality, and the Chop House staff was friendly and attentive amid a pleasant ambience. He lists employees, management, food and service among the many factors contributing to the success
“bad luck” at 1045 Old Camp Road. “There’s nothing wrong with this location,” Fred says. “It’s a good location, a great building.” Chop House stamps its signature logo into the top of the sandwich buns. It’s an unusual touch, but a successful restaurant finally may be putting its stamp on this corner of The Villages.
Chop House
1045 Old Camp Road, The Villages. 352.750.6000. Hours: 11am-9pm Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm Friday-Saturday. chophousedining.com.
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SPIRITS
DRINK
STRAWBERRY
fields
FOREVER ... … plus homemade wines make Oak Haven Farms special. STORY: VICTORIA SCHLABIG
ak Haven Farms & Winery in Sorrento has been around for nearly 25 years, allowing guests to pick all the strawberries imaginable. But an excess of strawberries one year led owner Harry Stauderman
≈ PHOTOS: DOUGLAS TYLER
to think about getting into making strawberry wine. When the experiment turned out well, Harry branched out to the grape wine business and started buying muscadine grapes locally to test the waters. He bought the muscadine grapes for a year and once he realized the wine was something that people liked, Oak Haven started growing its own grapes and has now been doing it
for 10 years. The winery produces and sells seven wines: strawberry, blueberry, dark rosé, two whites and two reds. About 14-16 pounds of grapes are needed to make one gallon of wine, Harry says. This translates to about 250 grapes per bottle. The farm grows two kinds of grapes: bronze white and red muscadine. White wine is made using bronze-colored Carlos grapes. Carlos is a
Harry Stauderman
muscadine grape that’s very common in the Southeast. Oak Haven has two forms of wine from that grape, the Carlos Dry and the Carlos, which is a bit sweeter. The red grapes are called Noble and also come in dry and sweeter versions.
Red wine For grape wines, the grapes are picked, crushed using a machine and run through a press to get the juice out. For red wine, fermentation starts with the skin and the pulp and draws the color out of the skins, unlike white wine where the skins are removed after crushing to create the clear juice. When the red wine is done with the partial fermentation, winemakers press the fermented juice out and remove the skins. Secondary fermentation continues, and the wine is done after about three weeks. The wine is then sealed off and covered in tanks so no oxygen can get to it. At this point, the wine is OK to drink but is best enjoyed after six months to a year of aging. The red wines sell best in colder weather. The Carlos and Carlos Dry are best paired with red meats, pork, pasta and aged cheeses, according to the winery’s tasting guide.
AC T FUN F
White wine For white wine, the grapes are crushed and then pressed immediately. The ones grown at Oak Haven are a bronze color and they make a clear juice. The pulps and skins are removed immediately after crushing, and the clear juice can begin fermentation. “White wines sell better in the summer months and pair best with chicken, seafood and salad. They make a nice poolside beverage and they’re very refreshing,” Harry says.
Blueberry wine Some wineries use frozen blueberries, but Oak Haven buys fresh blueberries because so many are available locally. “There are no grapes in the blueberry wine. It’s made from 100 percent blueberries,” Harry says. Blueberry wine is made in almost the exact same way as the reds, with the partial fermentation including the skins, then the filtering and secondary fermentation process. This wine pairs well with Asian food, pasta and cheeses, Harry
says. Oak Haven’s blueberry wine won an award several years ago at a competition in Michigan, where blueberry wine is popular.
Strawberry wine The strawberry wine is made when Oak Haven has an excess of strawberries at the end of the season, which usually happens around April. “They’re treated similar to the red grapes, where you ferment the pulp and everything until it’s partially fermented and then you press off the fermented juice of the strawberries just like any other wine,” Harry says. The strawberry is a dessert wine, which pairs well with chocolate and fruit, and Harry likes to pour his over ice cream. He adds that the strawberry wine also makes a great wine cooler if you mix the wine with club soda and put it over ice.
Southern Belle The Southern Belle, a blend of the Carlos and Noble grapes, is a dark rosé on the sweeter side. It’s more of an after-dinner wine rather than a table wine, Harry says, and pairs well with grilled vegetables, al fresco dining, and cheese bread or toasted bread.
W H AT IS M USCA DI N E W I N E? Simply put, it is wine made from muscadine grapes. It’s popular in the South because the grapes are native to the Southeast and south-central United States and thrive in hot weather, which is why they are abundant in Florida. They typically are too tough to eat on their own but are great for making jams and wine. The grapes are also high in antioxidants, making them good for heart health.
Know of a unique place to get drinks in Lake County? Send your ideas to victoria@akersmediagroup.com
VICTORIA SCHLABIG
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DINING GUIDE
dine
OUT Whatever your favorite dish, you can find a great place that serves it in this area. Check out what's nearby or take a little drive to a new place! 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 Williams Landing 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 William’s Landing 55716 Front St. 352.759.2802 BUSHNELL Chuck’s Odd Cuples Café 117 W Belt Ave 352.568.0408 Hong Kong Restaurant 2229 W CR 48 (352) 568-8888 Howie’s Family Restaurant 840 N. Main St. 352.793.8582
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TJ’s Family Restaurant 412 W. Belt Ave 352.793.8877
Friar Tuck 16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd. 352.404.6818
CLERMONT
G’s NY Pizza 12346 Roper Blvd. 352.243.8900
801 City Grille 801 Montrose St. 352.394.6911 Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988 Calabria Ristorante 13900 CR 455 407.656.5144 Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W. Montrose St. 352.404.9431 Clermont Brewing Co. 750 W Desoto 321.430.2337 Corelli Italian Restaurant 1042 E. Hwy. 50 352.989.5924 Devenney’s Irish Pub 16909 High Grove Blvd. 352.432.3925 El Cerro Restaurant 811 W. Hwy. 50 352.241.9884
Green Garden 1790 E. Hwy. 50 352.243.2077 Guru Restaurant 2400 S. Hwy. 27 352.241.9884 Legends Grille & Tavern 1700 Legendary Blvd. 352.243.1118 Lilly’s on the Lake 846 W. Osceola St. 352.708.6565 Napolis Pizzeria 556 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.7500 Robata Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688 Root and Branch Bistro and Bar 1200 Seaver Dr. 352.708.4529 Sanctuary Ridge Bar & Grille 2601 Diamond Club Road 352.243.0411
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Sarah’s Greek Cuisine & More 16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd., Ste. 305 352.404.8031 The Crooked Spoon Gastropub 200 Citrus Tower Blvd. 352.404.4808 Troy’s Cuban & Deli 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.241.4295 Uncle Kenny’s BBQ 157 Hwy. 27 352.394.1225 EUSTIS 1884 Restaurant & Bar 12 East Magnolia Ave. 1.800.856.1884 Combat Café 1602 N. Hwy. 19 352.483.0250 Haystax Restaurant 15439 Hwy. 441 352.489.0510 Jeannie’s Place 209 E. Gottsche Ave. 352.359.0027 Kiku Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 15211 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.483.8288
King’s Taste Bar-B-Que 503 Palmetto St. 352.589.0404 LaCabana Mexican Bar and Grill 2060 S. Bay St. 352.357.4600
Stavro’s 3223 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.315.0028 The Rose Plantation 200 Rose Ave., Fruitland Park 352.805.4340
Nalan Sultan Mediterranean Grill 1 N. Eustis St. 352.357.4444
G R OV E L A N D
NightOwl Caribbean Restaurant 929 S. Bay St. 352.589.0256
Ikaho Sushi Japanese 7965 SR 50, #900 352.557.8988
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 The Crazy Gator 402 N. Bay St. 352.589.5885 The Great Pizza Company 23 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.357.7377 The Oyster Troff 936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939 Tillie’s Tavern & Grill 31 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.602.7929 Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. 352.589.9001
Coyote Rojo 214 W. Broad St. 352.557.8999
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 H OW EY- I N THE -HILLS JB Boondocks Bar & Grill 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd. 352.324.3600 La Hacienda Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.3910 Nicker’s Clubhouse Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.2718 L A DY L A K E Bamboo Bistro 700 Hwy. 441 352.750.9998
F RU I T L A N D PA R K
El Ranchito 1 Lagrande Blvd.
Fruitland Park Café 3180 US Hwy. 441/27 352.435.4575
352.750.3335
ibar-be-que Express 3170 Hwy. 27 352.315.4227 Legends Cafe 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.728.0006 NY Deli N Diner 3325 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.365.0051 Rae Rae’s Restaurant 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.323.1595
Lady Lake 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 The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co. 514 Hwy. 441 352.614.9000
LEESBURG Blooms 610 W. Main St. 352.787.1004 Brick & Barrel 209 W. Main St. 352.431.3069 Cafe Ola 400 N. 14th St. 352.365.0089 Cedar River Seafood 8609 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 352.728.3377 Chesapeake Bay Grill 4467 Arlington Ridge Blvd. 352.315.0066 Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442 Dance’s BBQ 1707 South Street 352.801.8885 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 Mrs. T’s Place, Southern Restaurant 305 Pine St. 352.431.3217
Naples Italian Restaurant 1107 W. North Blvd. 352.323.1616 Osaka 1401 Citrus Blvd. 352.728.0788 Papa Pineapples 314 W. Main St. 352.801.7097 Pine Street Bar-B-Que 408 Pine St. 352.728.1293 Plantation Oaks Restaurant 4720 Plantation Blvd. 352.530.2680
MASCOTTE Rainbow Restaurant 704 E. Myers Blvd. 352.429.2093 MINNEOLA Jack’s Barbecue 100 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.2673 Lil Anthony’s Pizza 205 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.1516 Minneola Grill 117 W. Washington St. 352.394.2555
J.K. Thai & Sushi 116 E. 5th Ave. 352.385.5470 Let’s Do a Maine Lobster Roll 426 N. Donnelly St. 352.735.3702 Magical Meat Boutique 112 W. Third Ave. 352.729.6911 Mount Dora Pizza & Subs 2718 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 352.383.5303 Olive Branch MediterraneanItalian Grille 115 W. 3rd St. 352.729.6734
Ramshackle Café 1317 N. 14th St. 352.365.6565
Napoli’s Pizzeria 556 Hwy. 27 352.243.7500
Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 US Hwy. 27 352.319.8093
The Surf Bar and Grill 650 N. Hwy. 27 202.527.0100
San Jose Mexican 1337 S. 14th St. 352.805.4174
Tiki Bar & Grill 508 S. Main Ave. 352.394.2232
Sip Restaurant and Wine Bar 707 W. Main St. 352.435.7840
MOUNT DORA
Stokes Seafood Market and More 719 W. Main St. 352.787.3474
Anthony’s Pizza 17195 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.357.6668
Shiva Indian Restaurant 140A W. 5th Ave. 352.735.4555
Barnwood Country Kitchen & Smokehouse 3725 W. Old US Hwy 441 352.630.4903
Sidelines Sport Eatery 315 N. Highland St. 352.735.7433
Sully’s Smokehouse 10820 CR 44 352.483.7427 Takis Pizza Restaurant 1205 N. 14th St. 352.787.2344 Pint Sized Pub 110 S. 5th St. 352.460.0383 The Florida Porch Café 706 W. Main St. 352.365.1717
1921 Mount Dora 142 E. Fourth Ave. 352.385.1921
Beauclaire Restaurant at Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. 352.383.4101 Bocce Pizzeria 925 E. First Ave. 352.385.0067 Café Gianni 425 N. Alexander St. 352.735.3327
The Kitchen Cooking School 712 W. Main St. 352.901.6537
Cody’s on 4th Cafe 111 E. 4th Ave. 352.735.8426
The Mojo Grill & Catering Co. 9925 US-441 352.787.0494
Copacabana Cuban Cafe 320 Dora Drawdy Way 352.385.9000
The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd. 352.805.4250
Frog & Monkey English Pub 411 N. Donnelly St. 352. 383.1936
Turners 114 S. 5th St. 352.530.2274 Vic’s Catering 352.728.8989
Highland Street Café 185 S. Highland St. 352.383.1446
Wolfy’s 918 N. 14th St. 352.787.6777
Jeremiah’s 500 N. Highland St. 352.383.7444
One Flight Up Coffee, Dessert & Wine Bar 440 N. Donnelly St., Ste. 100 352.758.9818 Pisces Rising 239 W. 4th Ave. 352.385.2669 PizzAmore’ 722 E. 5th Ave. 352.383.0092
Sugarboo’s Bar-B-Que 1305 N. Grandview St. 352.735.7675 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 Tilted Grill & Bar 4025 N. U.S. Hwy. 19A 352.483.3855 Whale’s Tale Fish House 2720 W. Old U.S. Hwy 441 352.385.1500 SORRENTO Del Franco Pizza Place 31436 CR 437 352.383.8882
Lisa’s Kountry Cafe 23911 CR 46 352.735.3380 TAVA R E S Angelo’s Italian Restaurant 2270 Vindale Rd. 352.343.2757 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 Lake Dora Sushi & Sake 227 E. Main St. 352.343.6313 Mary’s Kountry Kitchen 15945 CR 448 352.343.6823 O’Keefe’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 115 S Rockingham Ave. 352.343.2157 Palm Gardens Restaurant 1661 Palm Garden St. 352.431.3217 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 The Hideaway 11912 Lane Park Rd. 352.343.3585
T H E V I L L AG E S Amerikano’s Grill 998 Del Mar Dr. 352.633.8027 Belle Glade Country Club 446 Moyer Loop 352.205.8208 Bravo Pizza 1080 Lake Sumter Landing 352.430.2394 Cane Garden Country Club 1726 Bailey Trail 352.750.0627 Chengs Chinese and Sushi Restaurant 4050 Wedgewood Ln. 352.391.9678 China Gourmet III 343 Colony Blvd 352.750.4965 City Fire Brownwood & Paddock Square 352.561.2078
Legacy Restaurant Nancy Lopez Country Club 17135 Buena Vista Blvd. 352.753.1475 Margarita Republic 1102 Main St. 352.753.4600 Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant and Bar 320 Colony Blvd. 352.753.3824
Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill 297 Colony Blvd 352.751.0400 Giovanni’s 3439 Wedgewood Lane 352.751.6674 Glenview County Club 3914 Glenview Rd. 352.753.0077 Habaneros Mexican Grill 3551 Wedgewood Ln. 352.633.2080 Hemingway’s at Havana Country Club 2484 Odell Circle 352.430.3200
Fish & Chix 100 N. Central Ave. 352.669.7145 Gator’s 9 N. Central Ave. 352.669.6969 Greg’s Haystax 526 Umatilla Blvd. 352.669.1555 Old Crow Real Pit Bar-B-Q 41100 SR 19 352.669.3922
NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln 352.750.1994
Shanghai 531 N. Central Ave. 352.669.2004
Orange Blossom Country Club 1542 Water Tower Circle 352.751.4501
The Mason Jar 37534 State Rd. 19 352.589.2535
Palmer Legends Country Club 1635 Palmer Way 352.750.4499
W I L DWO O D
RedSauce 1000 Canal St. 352.750.2930
Evans Prairie Country Club 1825 Evan’s Prairie Trail 352.750.2225
U M AT I L L A
Ricciardi’s Italian Table 3660 Kiessel Rd. 352.391.9939 Sakura 265 Colony Blvd 352.205.7393 Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant 13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630 The Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille 925 Lakeshore Dr. 352.753.7800 Tierra Del Sol Country Club 806 San Marino Dr. 352.753.8005 VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887
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 O’Shucks! Oyster Bar and Grill 1016 S Main St. 352.399.2200 Traditions Café 3107 Hwy. 44 352.748.1077 Woody’s Bar-B-Q 1220 S. Main St. 352.748.1109 YA L A H A Yalaha Bakery 8210 CR 48 352.324.3366
Red Wing Restaurant If you’re game, try Red Wing Restaurant for a dining experience that’s off the beaten path. The unique menu features grilled quail, elk chops, wild boar chops, buffalo meat, fried venison, alligator tail, frog legs and grilled duck—plus Angus beef. The country décor inside the wood building includes stuffed grizzly bears, deer and turkey mounted on the wall, as well as Mason jar lighting fixtures and fireplaces, evoking a cozy, down-home feel. 12500 S. State Road 33, Groveland / 352.429.2997
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GOOD GRUB
THIS MONTH'S EDITOR'S PICK
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DINING GUIDE
Let’s Do “A Maine Lobster Roll” 352.735.3702 | 426 N DONNELLY STREET, MOUNT DORA If you are looking for a Maine Lobster Roll or New England Clam Chowder, Let’s Do “a Maine Lobster Roll” in Downtown Mount Dora, it will be the right place. It is a cute charming place on Donnelly Street between 4th and 5th Ave. You will get sweet, tasty Maine Lobster, steamed then chilled mixed with light mayo and that’s it! Served on a warm toasted “New England” hot dog roll. Ask for the overloaded roll, you will never forget it. Additionally, they serve delicious creamy New England clam chowder, grilled hot dogs, Angus beef burgers and grilled sandwiches such as tuna melts, reubens, and a lot more. Between Monday and Friday they have a sandwich lunch special (ham, turkey, tuna, and egg or chicken-salad) for just $6.45 including one side and FREE homemade ice tea. You can also enjoy a beer, a glass of wine, or Margarita with your Maine Lobster Roll.
Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 352.753.2722 | 304 US-441, LADY LAKE
11am-5pm Saturday.
Open 4pm-9pm Wednesday through Sunday.
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.
Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Subway
Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food.
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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Open 11am-3pm Monday to Sunday.
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Save thousands on remaining 2019 models, hurry in before they’re gone! EXPIRES JANUARY 31, 2020
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“The quality of work was exceptional creating our pool paradise. The entire process was a total team effort from sales, design and the construction which made our experience hassle free. They met their time line schedule, were very responsive and approachable to any questions we had. Overall, Wiseman Pools did a very nice job, were efficient and true passionate professionals that exceeded our expectations.” — RYAN & TIFFANY LANGSTON, LEESBURG, FLORIDA
We know that every single customer is unique—Building Unique Pools is our company motto—and so every project we undertake is delivered to a client’s signature set of personal tastes and, where necessary, solves any challenges their property may present. 352-431-3766 | www.WisemanPools.com | 1517 W Main St., Leesburg Wiseman Pools is a family-owned-and-operated, licensed residential and commercial swimming pool builder with an extensive portfolio of projects. From the small—fountains and in-ground spas. To the large—million dollar installations with multiple pools and spas. Our customers, large and small, demand a quality swimming pool for a fair price. And we deliver.
FINAL THOUGHT
Don’t let naysayers dog you Follow your heart in doing what you believe. STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL
ave you ever been in an audience and felt moved by a speaker’s words? It happened to me recently when I heard John Grogan, author of “Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog,” address the Florida Press Club. John told humorous anecdotes about his family’s mischievous yellow Labrador, which became the focus of his first book, an international bestseller that sold 8 million copies, has been translated into more than 30 languages worldwide and was made into a major motion picture starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston in 2008. John’s overall message was to follow your heart in doing the things you want to do. “Trust me, I had a lot of naysayers, a lot of rolled eyes and kind of snarky comments from my colleagues,” he says. “‘You’re doing what? You’re writing about a Labrador who jumps through screen doors? That’s the best thing you can come up with?’”
John says it would have been easy to get discouraged. “I stuck with it and I came out with something I am proud of and believed. So, believe in yourself, believe in your work, believe in what you do,” he says. Follow your heart. Follow your passion. Those words can be applied to anything and everything in life. His words moved me because I realized I probably would have heeded my peers’ advice if I had been in a similar situation. I would have thought they were smarter and wiser. Luckily, John ignored his colleagues. He was a newspaper columnist when he wrote about Marley’s bad-boy antics, yet it was one of Marley’s tender moments that became the catalyst for writing the book. John and his wife, Jenny, had just returned home from the hospital after the miscarriage of their first child. “I couldn’t believe my eyes. Here was the crazy, wild dog who was perfectly still, his tail between his legs, and he was resting his head in Jenny’s lap and whimpering,” he says. “There was something sweet about the canine/human moment of empathy that unleashed the tears.” John’s speech left a lasting impression on me to continue to do what I love, and gave me the inspiration to look for new projects, live before my life is over and ignore the naysayers along the way.
Hey readers! Do you have a cute dog story? Tell me about it! Email me at theresa@akersmediagroup.com
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THERESA CAMPBELL
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