June
2014
Why obliterate 100% of your knee when only about 25% is arthritic? Chronic knee pain? A total knee replacement obliterates 100% of the cartilage and up to 50% of the ligaments in the knee. But why undergo a total knee replacement if only 25% of your knee is arthritic? That’s the logic behind a partial knee replacement performed by Dr. Kerina at Tri-County Orthopaedic Center. The procedure preserves all the tendons and ligaments of the knee, allowing for shorter recovery time
and greater function. Dr. Kerina pioneered outpatient partial knee replacements, and has helped thousands of patients return to the active lifestyle they enjoy. Don’t total your knee without exploring viable options like the outpatient partial knee replacement. Call Dr. Kerina today at 352-787-9141 for a one-on-one consultation.
J. Mandume Kerina, M.D. National leader and #1 surgeon for Zimmer/ZUK partial knee replacements; most requested for surgeon-to surgeon training
352-787-9141 ~ Patient specific, ligament-sparing partial knee replacement for rapid return to your active lifestyle ~
Remember your mammogram
Receive a free gift when you schedule your annual breast screening during the month of June. According to the American Cancer Society, yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health.
Take advantage of our June $99 screening mammogram. Physician order is required. $99 discount applies only to patients without insurance. Some women may be eligible for no cost mammograms based on income.
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(352) 253-3370 CDT FHW-2014-0417
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cont June
2014 // VO LU M E 1 1 N U M B E R 8
Featuring
28 IN THE BUSINESS OF SUCCEEDING
Ryan Veraghen may come across as a party-happy frat boy, but he’s actually an entrepreneur with a Midas touch. STORY: JAMES COMBS
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUSINESSMEN OF STYLE
Introducing a group of ambitious movers and shakers who worked hard to get to the top.
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DIRTY JOBS
Get knee-deep in some of the messiest jobs around with the special people who bring home the bacon by doing gross-out jobs. STORIES: JAMES COMBS
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NORMANDY: THEN AND NOW
In honor of the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Style returns to the beaches of Normandy, where WWII veterans Sam DiPietro and Irving Locker landed June 6, 1944. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS
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CITY SERIES:
SOUTH SUMTER
Ride along as we explore highlights along the Sumter Scenic Heritage Byway. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS
LAKE&SUMTER EDITION On the cover MODEL: RYAN VERAGHEN PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK
VILLAGES EDITION On the cover DR. RONDA FROSS AND JESSICA PERHEALTH OF BACK PAIN RELIEF CENTER PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK June 20 14
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tents
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118
Departments 13
FROM THE PUBLISHER
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EDITOR’S COLUMN
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FIRST THINGS FIRST 20 #TRENDING Summertime means poolside drinks, barbecue, and much more.
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ON THE SCENE 100 THE TO-DO LIST June is full of joyous events. 108 SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT Coming home A weekend of fun and fellowship at one of Florida’s oldest African-American communities. Story: James Combs
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104 OUT+ABOUT D-Day in New Orleans The National WWII Museum tells story of fight for freedom. Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 110 HI, SOCIETY! Social scenes from Pig on the Pond, Beacon College, and Georgefest.
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EATS! 116 SALUTE In the pink Even the manliest man can enjoy a glass of rosé. Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 118 IN THE KITCHEN Peel into plantains Ivis and Guido Osorio’s Tia Chips are becoming a favorite local treat. Story: Shemir Wiles
24 PERSON OF INTEREST Jessica Gentry cultivates better health by growing organic food
122 FORK ON THE ROAD Blue Plate Deli Incredible burgers have people filling up at gas station eatery. Story: Shemir Wiles
26 OUTSTANDING STUDENT Young driver Anthony Cataldi goes full throttle on the track and in the classroom.Pelton is also a competitive twirler.
136 FINAL THOUGHT Money’s good, happiness is better Words to live by for the Class of 2014. Story: Gary McKechnie
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From the publisher
A NEW STYLE
Kendra Akers PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF kendra@akersmediagroup.com
Doug Akers
VICE PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com
Jamie Ezra Mark CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER jamie@akersmediagroup.com
EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY Gary Corsair EXECUTIVE EDITOR gary@akersmediagroup.com
Shemir Wiles Steven J. Codraro
MANAGING EDITOR/WRITER ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR shemir@akersmediagroup.com steve@akersmediagroup.com
Mary Ann DeSantis Josh Clark
EDITOR-AT-LARGE SENIOR DESIGNER/ADVERTISING maryann@akersmediagroup.com josh@akersmediagroup.com
James Combs Anthony Casto
STAFF WRITER SENIOR DESIGNER/EDITORIAL james@akersmediagroup.com anthony@akersmediagroup.com
Fred Lopez Michael Gaulin
CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER PRODUCTION DIRECTOR fred@akersmediagroup.com michael@akersmediagroup.com
Matthew Gaulin PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT matt@akersmediagroup.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS // PHOTOGRAPHERS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Gary McKechnie Morgan Ellis Kathy Porter Ron Vandevander SALES // MARKETING Tim McRae
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING tim@akersmediagroup.com
Mike Stegall Heidi Ressler
SENIOR MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE mike@akersmediagroup.com heidi@akersmediagroup.com
Lori Strong Aubrey Akers
MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE PRODUCTION COORDINATOR lori@akersmediagroup.com aubrey@akersmediagroup.com
Melanie Melvin Lacey Morgan MARKETING DIRECTOR MARKETING ASSISTANT melanie@akerscreative.com lacey@akerscreative.com
ADMINISTRATION Tina Morrison Brittany Buell
OFFICE MANAGER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT tina@akersmediagroup.com brittany@akersmediagroup.com
DISTRIBUTION Scott Hegg
As you may have noticed, there are some slight changes in the magazine this month. We have made some adjustments and shifted some things around to prepare for a new and improved Style. Every month, our team comes together to brainstorm ideas on how we can improve. Our commitment to giving you a mustread magazine is always focused around two major factors: more local stories and zig when others zag. Therefore, our first goal was to bring in Gary Corsair as our new executive editor. We introduced Gary in the May issue, but I am certain most of you already know him. Gary has spent the last 18 years writing stories about Lake and Sumter residents for a local newspaper. Gary is an engaging writer and amazing editor and he will make a significant impact on this magazine in the months to come. Secondly, we are expanding our At Your Service page. We would like you to know everything that is going on at Akers and all of the great things we are offering this community. For example, did you know we produce an annual visitors’ guide called Welcome to Lake, or that we highlight the amazing local events and people in our weekly, high-quality show called Style TV?” We want to keep you informed, so we’ve launched a daily blog on lakeandsumterstyle.com. This blog will allow us to share information with our readers on a daily basis so we don’t have to wait until the next issue of Style. Our goal is to be your trusted source of local news not just monthly, but on a daily basis. One more thing, we are also starting a weekly newsletter, so while you are visiting our blog on the website, take a moment and sign up. This will be our way of communicating with you to let you know when there is something new happening or when there is a great event coming up that you may want to attend. These are exciting times in our community. I am thrilled to be a part of it and I am even more thrilled that we get the opportunity to present it to you with STYLE.
We hope you enjoy the issue,
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com
LAKE & SUMTER STYLE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF
FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION
LAKE EUSTIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LEESBURG PARTNERSHIP
SUMTER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AMERICAN ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION
TAVARES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SOUTH LAKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
Kendra Akers, publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com
Lake & Sumter Style, May 2014. Published monthly by Akers Media, 1450 E. North Blvd, Leesburg, Florida 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2014 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. “Special to Lake & Sumter Style” and “Special Promotional Feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. The ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of Akers Media.
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This month on
What’s happening beyond the print edition
TINA MORRISON HOST OF “STYLE TV”
YOU WOULDN’T WANT MY JOB… We get down and dirty to find out who’s doing the yucky jobs we avoid with a 10-foot pole. But we don’t just watch from a distance; host Tina Morrison rolls up her sleeves and gets … well, downright messy!
TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN & JERK FESTIVAL
FEATURING
Fun in the culture of the islands.
Ya Mon! Taste of the Caribbean is the most fun you can have north of the Bahamas. But Cornfest is also worth sinking you’re teeth into. And those are just two events we dropped into. Don’t fret if you didn’t make the scene. You didn’t miss a thing; our cameras gotcha covered.
STYLE MIXER EVENT BUSINESSMEN OF STYLE Ryan Veraghen is young, driven and wildly successful. And he’s not the only mover and shaker transforming Lake County into a vibrant place to live, work, and play. We kick open the boardrooms to learn the formulas for success.
BACK TO THE BEACH
Normandy continues to honor the Allied soldiers who liberated France.
Check out “Style TV” on our YouTube channel LakeStyleTV and our website lakeandsumterstyle.com
Local veterans recall storming the beaches of Normandy, which Lake and Sumter Style’s Mary Ann DeSantis recently visited. The pillboxes at Omaha Beach now sprout flowers instead of machinegunners, but reminders of battles for freedom abound.
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at your service hot off the press!
Say ‘cheese!’ Soon, you will be able to buy photos from any of the social events we’ve covered in Lake & Sumter counties. Keep an eye out for the news on our website!
the boys of summer. Catch this year’s Leesburg Lightning Summer Baseball Preview in this issue!
tune in.
CATCH OUR WEEKLY EPISODES OF STYLE TV ON OUR WEBSITE, FACEBOOK, AND YOUTUBE.
Catch our blog! No need to wait for next month’s magazine. Keep abreast of whats happening through the eyes of Executive Editor Gary Corsair.
lakeandsumterstyle.com
The latest editions of Lake and Sumter Style, Villages Style, Healthy Living and Welcome to Lake County
SHOW YOUR LOVE. Become a fan of Lake and Sumter Style or Healthy Living by signing up on our Facebook page, following us on Twitter (@GetStyleMag or @GetHLMag) or you can check out our channel on YouTube. subscribe to our
e-newsletter
get yours.
Sign up at our website!
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $24. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Style or Healthy Living magazine. Choose both magazines for $36 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112, go to www.akersmediagroup.com 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 by mail for cover price at $4.95+ sales tax and shipping. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.
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June 20 14
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Editor’s column
WANT TO BE STYLISH? GO LONG LIKE BART STARR Some of the gentlemen featured as our Businessmen of Style would look at home on a Hollywood runway, but this issue isn’t about good looks, debonair ways, or fashion sense. Don’t get me wrong, our Businessmen of Style appreciate Salvatore Ferragamo neckties, Patek Philippe watches, and Berluti Rapieces Reprises shoes as much as the next guy, but they also seem to understand that style is more than looking good. Pure style — what you value, how you attain it, and how you treat others — is about substance. Sorry, but the Dos Equis pitchman is not the most interesting man in the world. And a good tie, expensive watches, and fancy shoes do not make a man. If anything, expensive baubles can hinder a man’s potential and potentially distort his view of what’s important. That might be what happened to Jerry, the big brother of my elementary school girlfriend Janie. That guy had it going on. Jerry had style. His suits were always perfectly pressed, he never had a hair out of place, and his shoes were polished like the tile floors at Kroger after an allnight wax and buff. This guy was going places.
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He finished near the top of his class in college and was wellspoken, well-mannered, and well-traveled. He had a good job and interesting hobbies. He was going places all right. One night, Jerry left town with the wife of a friend. Jerry’s mistress left three small children behind. Jerry only appeared to have style. He wasn’t truly a man of substance. True style involves the heart of a man — his moral and spiritual beliefs and how he applies them. Men of style try to do things the right way, even when no one’s looking. Especially when no one is watching. The epitome of style isn’t how you dress, walk, or talk, it’s how you live. And there’s nothing more stylish than helping others, a fact most, if not all of our Businessmen of Style, have experienced. If you need a role model, read up on Bart Starr, the legendary Green Bay Packers quarterback who continues to live an exemplary life. There are no shortage of inspirational Bart Starr stories, but one of my favorites is preserved in the book Ten Men You Meet in the Huddle by Bill Curry. Curry tells how he and another assistant coach were at Starr’s home, deep into discussing how to turn around a disappointing
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season, when the doorbell rang. Bart’s wife opened the door to a man who nervously explained that his gravely ill father desperately wanted to meet Bart Starr. Bart asked his wife what the man wanted, then left his coaches and joined her at the door. “Where is your father now?” Bart asked. “He’s waiting in the car,” the son replied. “You go get him and bring him here right now,” Bart ordered. When the old man hobbled up to the doorstep, Bart greeted him warmly, invited the strangers in, and led them to his trophy room. There, Bart told the stories behind trophies and photos and awards from his Hall-ofFame career. The old man left with tears in his eyes. He could die in peace. The son couldn’t stop thanking the Starrs for their hospitality. As the door closed, Bart returned to his coaches. “Now where were we?” Bart asked as if he hadn’t done something truly remarkable. Now that is style.
Until next time,
Gary Corsair Executive Editor
just a touch away Digitize your life. Visit the Apple or Android app store today and download the Lake and Sumter Style online magazine app for your mobile device. For the best in enhanced magazine entertainment, join us online for the media experience of a lifetime.
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The promise of an unstuffy nose. Nemours Children’s Primary Care, Clermont is now open. We look forward to being here for your child, from early life to early adulthood. And we look forward to building a lasting relationship with your family. As part of one the nation’s leading pediatric health care systems, we make your child’s health and happiness our primary focus.
meet
Dr. Stanley-Brown Odett R. Stanley-Brown, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician who has provided comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents for more than 25 years. For appointments call (352) 708-4828 1371 Citrus Tower Blvd., Clermont, FL 34711 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nemours.org/Clermont
Clermont Your child. Our promise.
First Things
f1rst 20 24 26
#TRENDING PERSON OF INTEREST OUTSTANDING STUDENT
JESSICA GENTRY
Read more about her organic vegetable farm ON PAGE 24.
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First things first // #trending Spotlighting the best of local people, places, and events
USA VOLLEYBALL “DIGS” SAND PLAN
Hickory Point Recreational Facility in Tavares will become a prime destination for sun, sand, and searing spikes when a new volleyball complex opens July 5. An agreement between the Lake County Water Authority, Florida Region of USA Volleyball, and the county government netted a 20-court sand volleyball complex. The $400,000 facility will feature professional net systems, lights, an intercom system, webcams, and 24 inches of top-grade sand. “This is the largest, contiguous, and permanent complex in the state,” says Robert Chandler, director of Lake County
Economic Development and Tourism. During a groundbreaking ceremony on April 30, Steve Bishop, director of Florida Region of USA Volleyball, voiced his excitement over the prospect of Hickory Point hosting high-caliber sand volleyball tournaments and world-class sand volleyball players. “Since 2007, participation in sand volleyball has increased by 47 percent. We are excited to do our part in continuing to grow the sport.” Sand volleyball will become an official National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sport in 2016, and the season will
ENDING CHILD ABUSE
conclude with a tournament to determine the champion. Local leaders will bid to bring future NCAA sand volleyball tournaments to Hickory Point. In addition, the site will host high school tournaments, as well as camps. “Because of the increasing popularity of sand volleyball, building a state-of-the-art complex such as this puts Lake County on the front end of the wave,” says Brent Nelson of the Central Florida Sports Commission. “This will definitely make a tremendous impact on sports tourism and economic development in the county.”
The Mid-Florida Division of Children’s Home Society of Florida recently held its 27th annual “Puttin’ on the Ritz” fundraiser at Santa Fe College in Gainesville. More than 900 people attended the event, which featured live music, dancing, a silent auction, and cuisine from several restaurants. All money went toward the organization’s various programs, including its prevention and intervention services offered in Lake and Sumter counties. Since 1902, Children’s Home Society of Florida has helped break the generational cycle of child abuse and neglect throughout the state.
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*
Sand volleyball by the numbers
1920s —The year the sport was thought to have originated in Santa Monica, Calif. Families played six versus six.
3
million
—The number of sand volleyball participants.
AND THE WINNER IS... PRINCETON! Montverde Academy senior Hans Hanley was accepted to some of the country’s most prestigious universities: Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Cornell, Duke, and Vanderbilt. In the end, he felt most comfortable with Princeton. “The reason I chose Princeton was the overall atmosphere. For me, it had the best engineering school of all the Ivy League schools I had been accepted to. I also really appreciated the focus on undergraduate students at Princeton.” Hans has been a remarkable student at Montverde Academy and is active in many societies,
clubs, and organizations, including the school’s academic team. He was also a 2014 semifinalist in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
JOSH TAKES ON: AN ADMITTEDLY ASKEW POINT-OF-VIEW FROM THE MIND OF ILLUSTRATOR JOSH CLARK
1996
—The year sand volleyball became an Olympic sport.
200
%
—The growth rate of participation in the USAV Beach Junior Tour between 2007 and 2009. Sources: ncaa.org/about/resources/inclusion/emerging-sports-sand-volleyball; volleyball.org/history_beach.html
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First things first // #trending Spotlighting the best of local people, places, and events
JAMIE MARK’S JUNE
THEHITLIST
_____________________________________
1 // EUSTIS DOCTOR ON TV American Pickers features local Dr. Jack Cassell on it’s show. Thankfully for things he collected at home and NOT at work from his urology practice.
REEL IN SOME FUN
This summer, encourage your child to enjoy the great outdoors by learning about some Florida traditions: fishing and boating. The Florida Scrub-Jay Trail and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are conducting two weeklong camps to teach children fishing and basic boating skills. The camps are for children ages 9-15 and will be held July 7–11 and July 14–18. Participants will learn about numerous topics: fish biology, catch-and-release techniques, fish habitats, boating safety and navigation, trolling motor operation, rod and reel assembly, casting techniques, and fish cleaning. A fishing tournament, rowing competitions, and casting contests are planned. Campers will also treat their families to a fish fry on the final day of camp. The cost is $200. Class sizes are limited to 10 campers per week to ensure personal instruction. To register, contact Bruce Brown at info@scrubjaytrail.org or 352.429.5566.
MAKE YOUR GRILLIN’ THRILLIN’
A backyard barbecue can be so much more than sinking your teeth into delicious grub. Spice it up with some fun entertainment ideas. • Organize a scavenger hunt and set aside prizes for the winning individual or team. • Have a grilling contest. After all, there is always one family member who brags about his or her ability to grill the tastiest steaks and burgers. For the sake of fairness, make sure the judges do not know who cooked what. • Plan a food-eating contest. Chicken wings, hot dogs, and even pancakes will suffice. Just make sure antacid is readily available. • Host your own “Backyard Idol.” All you need is a microphone and some speakers. Just remember to be respectful of everyone’s performance, especially
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since performing in front of an audience can be intimidating to some. • Draw upon your do-it-yourself intuition to create games on your lawn such as Twister, mini-golf, ring toss, and bocce ball.
2 // YALAHA BBQ JOINT CLOSES After 32 years, the 71-year-old owner of BC’s General Store is ready to retire. Dismayed patrons long to get their baby back, baby back, baby back. 3 // SCHOOLS OUT! As usual, the familliar: “No more pencils. No more books. No more dirty looks” was heard being chanted through schools. Less usual was that the chant was coming from the teachers’ lounge. 4 // TAVARES TALKING TRASH Area homeowners will receive postcards to help explain the new residential garbagecollection system, assuming they are not just trashed with the junk mail. 5 // NEW PROPANE TANKS FOR BLUE RHINO? The new composite tanks are said to help prevent another explosion. Looking at the much more expensive tanks, Rhino officials are trying to determine whether the claim is just another blast of hot air. 6 // SOAPBOX DERBY CANCELED The Memorial Day event was nixed for permitting issues, which the organizer claimed he didn’t think he needed because the race was to be held on private property. Missing yet another opportunity, he failed to make his statement from atop a soapbox.
I’LL DRINK TO THAT Taking a dip in cold pool water is a wonderful way to escape the sizzling summer heat. After a few hours of splishin’ and splashin’, you may opt to wind down with a refreshing poolside cocktail for maximum relaxation. Here are some popular cocktails to try. FROZEN STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI
Ingredients: 2 ounces light rum 1/2 ounce triple sec 1 ounce lime juice 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1 cup ice 5–10 strawberries (to taste) Directions: 1. Combine all the ingredients in a blender. 2. Blend well at high speed. 3. Pour into a margarita glass. 4. Serve.
MAI TAI
Ingredients: 2 ounces aged rum 1/2 ounce lime juice 1/2 ounce orange curacao 1/2 ounce orgeat syrup 1 cup crushed ice Mint sprig and lime wedge for garnish Directions: 1. Pour all the ingredients, except the mint spring, into a shaker. 2. Shake well. 3. Pour into an old-fashioned glass. 4. Garnish with lime wedge and mint sprig.
MOJITO
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons sugar 6–8 mint leaves Club soda 1 lime, halved 2 ounces white rum Crushed ice Mint sprig for garnish Directions: 1. Squeeze juice from both halves of the lime into a Collins or highball glass. 2. Place sugar and mint leaves in glass and muddle well to dissolve sugar and release mint flavor. 3. Add crushed ice and rum. Stir well. 5. Top off with club soda and garnish with mint sprig.
GUARDIAN ANGELS
Be a voice for one of approximately 1,700 children in Lake, Sumter, Marion, Hernando, and Citrus counties who have been removed from their homes for alleged abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Volunteers are needed for the Guardian ad Litem (GAL), a program that makes sure a qualified, compassionate adult will be an advocate for a child’s basic right to be safe and treated with dignity and respect. GAL volunteers are appointed by the court and work as part of a team with a volunteer supervisor and program attorney. Each volunteer becomes familiar with a child and that child’s case and then makes recommendations to the court to help ensure a safe, caring, stable, and permanent environment for that child.
GAL volunteer training will begin June 9 at Oxford Assembly of God in Oxford. Eligible volunteers must be 21 years old and successfully complete 30 hours of pre-service training. For more information, call Sarah Jay at 352.274.5231.
PUTTING STOCK IN STUDENTS In April, 47 middle school students from Lake and Sumter counties were inducted into the Take Stock in Children program. Each of these students will receive a college tuition scholarship upon completion of the program and graduation from high school. CARVER MIDDLE: Andrew Santiago. CLERMONT MIDDLE: Tyler Coolidge, Angelica Henao, Andy Hernandez, Asia Lavender, Natalie Moody, and Maneshia Neura. EAST RIDGE MIDDLE: Kayla Abikarram, Kya Casseus, Anna Collins, Adaijah Jackson, McKayler McKinnon, Thalia Ramirez, and Giovanni Valencia.
SOUTH SUMTER MIDDLE: Destiny Brown, Lorenzo Brown, Travis Burkes, Lizbeth Cruz-Garcia, Ana Gamez-Henriquez, Antonio Hernandez, Casey Lovett, Kay-Sha Perkins, and Melissa Rodriguez. TAVARES MIDDLE: Darius Darkin. UMATILLA MIDDLE: Crystal Harris, Taylor Kennedy, and Gisselle Martinez-Perez. THE VILLAGES CHARTER MIDDLE: Madison Sheets. WINDY HILL MIDDLE: Shaianne Berry, Katelyn Hixon, Falont Laveus, Dezuray Logan, Valentina Nunez, Natalia Palma, and Leska Uriarte.
GRAY MIDDLE: Mariajose Arreola, Jasmine Lee, Noelle Nicholas, Jalyn Pace, and Uriel Rubio. MOUNT DORA MIDDLE: Kayla Freeman, Danielle Hoffman, Yanek SanchezMorales, and Alexander Shepherd. OAK PARK MIDDLE: Chassidy Berry, Alexis Davis, and Joshua Saint-Ulysse.
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First things first // person of interest Movers and shakers
JUICY TIDBITS WORKAHOLIC:
Jessica works 20 hours a week as a waitress at Ramshackle Café and 70 hours a week at Bountiful Farms. She hasn’t had a day off in seven months.
GREEN ACRES:
As of now, Jessica uses one acre of her seven-acre farm to grow organic food.
AGE: 32 Resides in Okahumpka.
on a weekend getaway to celebrate our 12th anniversary. LAST BOOK READ: The Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening, which was written in 1978. A customer gave me this book.
FAVORITE FOOD: Homemade pizza with fresh dough, real cheese, and vegetables from my farm.
KOEEPER FT HARVEHSE T
OWNER OF BOUNTIFUL FARMS
DREAMING BIG: When my husband, Gareth, and I were chefs in Palm Beach County, we noticed the texture and quality of the food was grown with love. The restaurant where we worked purchased food from private farms. We thought it would be awesome to grow our own food, so four years ago we bought our own farm in Okahumpka. That same year we also had twins, Dade and Jacey. TAKING ROOT: It took four years to cultivate the land and build a greenhouse. I also conducted lots of research to be prepared for pests, bugs, and fungus. Plus, I wanted to increase my odds of growing a successful organic garden.
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FAVORITE JUNK FOOD: Cheetos. If they’re in the house I’ll eat the entire bag. DOGS OR CATS: Cats because they are less maintenance.
RIPE FOR SUCCESS: Locals enjoy coming to our farm and picking vegetables right out of the garden, which officially opened in November 2013. I’m happy to make other people happy. I grow everything: four types of squashes, 11 types of zucchini, five types of cucumbers, four types of cantaloupe, five types of watermelon, four types of cowpeas, six types of beans, three types of okra, 10 types of herbs, 15 types of tomatoes, three types of onion, and six types of lettuce. I also grow spinach, bananas, papayas, potatoes, and eggplants. GUILTY PLEASURE: Going anywhere without my children. We took the kids with us
SOMETHING NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT YOU: I am very shy. When people come to my farm I am very outgoing. However, if I’m in a crowd of people I don’t know I am not nearly as talkative. PET PEEVE: Tardiness. Being late irks me to no end. WORST GRADE IN SCHOOL: I made a D in algebra during my senior year at Leesburg High School. I tried so hard and did all my homework, but algebra just did not click. It’s strange because I took advanced placement classes in subjects like English and science.
PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ
JESSICA GENTRY
IN FIVE YEARS: I want to be growing food on all seven acres of our farm. I also want to have an online delivery service and a presence at farmers markets.
INVEST 1%
of your time and
RECOVER 30% of your strength and ability to function.
THE ACTIVERX™ SYSTEM INCLUDES: The ActivEval Comprehensive Full Body Functional Evaluation • Assessment of acute and chronic issues and potential physical function impairments • Emphasis on patient education, engagement, and two-way communication Specialized One-on-One Active Physical Therapy • Delivered by specialists in working with older adults • Patient-centric, wellness-oriented and outcomes driven • Advanced communication and behavioral change components
Their knowledge promoted quick recovery and a return to our busy lifestyle. Dr. Patel and his staff provide an environment that is fun, caring and pleasant to enable us to get the most out of our therapy.
Strenghtherapy™ Wellness Program • Based on 20 years of strength and muscle physiology and biomechanics research • Proven to enhance strength, physical function, mobility, • Small group (4-5 people), 30-minute sessions, 2-3 days per week • Supervised by specially trained, degreed exercise physiologists • We track and provide monthly outcome reports to referring physicians Specializations: • Improved Strength • Increased Endurance • • • • • •
Orthopedic Conditions Neurological Disorders Vestibular Dysfunction (Vertigo) Arthritis Back/Neck Pain Various other joint pain (hip, knee, ankle, etc.)
- Frank and Rosina B., The Villages Dr. Patel was able to begin the healing After one treatment, I walked out of there with the one area he had worked on completely pain free. Dr. Patel listens to his patient’s responses and obviously cares about them and the quality of care he gives to them. - Linda W., The Villages
“
Utkarsh Patel —Director of Physical Therapy Bachelor’s of Exercise Physiology at University of Florida, Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University
Physical & Strength Therapy TLC Medical Arts Building 201 W. Guava St, Suite 206, Lady Lake, FL 32159 352.430.0473 • ActiveRX.com/LadyLake
First things first // outstanding student Making the grade
VITAL STATS CASE IN POINT:
Anthony maintains a 4.2 grade-point average.
GIVE HIM SOME CREDIT:
Anthony has already earned 15 college credits at Lake-Sumter State College (two English courses, two math courses, and an elective).
MY FAVORITE TRACK is New Smyrna Speedway because it is fast and close to home. I TYPICALLY SPEND 25 HOURS A WEEK performing maintenance of my racecar. That includes changing oil, working on shocks, and servicing ball joints. I JUGGLE RACING AND ACADEMICS very carefully. School always comes first. When I arrive home from school, I make sure my homework is finished before I start working on my racecar.
ANTHONY CATALDI
OR
SPEED
AGE : 1 8 SENIOR AT CHRISTIAN HOME AND BIBLE SCHOOL
ONE OF MY LIFE PASSIONS IS RACING. I started racing go-karts at age 10 and won state and national championships. I was the Florida Karting Association Junior Restricted Gold
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Champion in 2010. After go-karts, I began racing Legends cars. In 2012, I finished fourth in points out of 386 competitors throughout the country. I am now racing Super Late Models and competing against the children of NASCAR drivers. It is difficult to compete against them because they have so many resources. I HAVE COMPETED in 15 Super Late Model races. My best race was at Showtime Speedway in Clearwater, where I finished in second place and won $1,500. SINCE BECOMING A SUPER LATE MODEL DRIVER, I have competed in Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. Most Super Late Model races are 100 laps.
DURING COLLEGE, I will continue racing. However, I will not race nearly as much as I have been. I HAVE DREAMED ABOUT BEING A NASCAR DRIVER, but I don’t think it is realistic. Maybe I’ll do something smaller, like the NASCAR K&N Pro Series. MY PARENTS ARE THE REASON I have been successful in racing and school. They’ve always taught me to work hard for anything I have. MY FAVORITE SUBJECT IS MATH. I love working with numbers. English? Not so much.
PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ
N EED F
I WILL BE ATTENDING Stetson University next fall. I plan to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After graduation, I plan on owning my own business, although I’m not sure exactly what that business will be.
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Colony Plaza 352.753.0055
Rolling Acres Plaza 352.753.6505
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IN THE
BUSINESSOF
SUCCEEDING Ryan Veraghen proves that working hard and having fun are not mutually exclusive STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ
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For most, a simple banking transaction would be a ho-hum experience. But not for Ryan Veraghen, who does everything with limitless energy and excitement. He enters a local bank and instantly transforms the atmosphere into one filled with conversation and laughter. Ryan informs the ladies he is being interviewed. “Are they interviewing you for the hottest husband issue?” asks one of the tellers. “Oops, am I admitting Ryan is hot?” The 37-year-old entrepreneur loves moments like these. His illuminating personality adds overthe-top excitement for everyone he encounters. “Sometimes people just need a little spark to make their day better. I take a positive approach and get a smile out of people because it’s healthy.”
GO BIG OR GO HOME
Without question, Ryan is an anomaly. On the surface, people may only see a good-time guy with a fun personality. But he also owns five businesses and possesses Donald Trump-like magic where everything he touches turns to gold. Ryan became an entrepreneur at age 21 when he opened his own business as a subcontractor for the home construction industry. He hauled his equipment in a small hatchback car. “The air compressor, pneumatic staplers, extension cord, air hoses, and tool belts had to be placed perfectly to fit,” he says. “Fortunately, I was able to save some money and bought a truck, and later purchased a trailer.” Ryan opened Aluminum Concepts in the early 2000s. His company’s breakthrough moment occurred several years later when Ron Hess of Hess Construction gave Ryan an opportunity to work in The Villages. Before long, Aluminum Concepts grew from a one-man crew to a team of 46 employees. “Mr. Hess and my family in The Villages gave me an amazing opportunity. I’ve learned so much from them,” he says. Because Aluminum Concepts prospered, Ryan sought additional business opportunities. In 2012
he opened R Car Automotive, an auto repair shop, in Tavares. Thanks to Ryan’s business sense and the mechanical skills of his partner, Rick Carlson, the company received the Small Business of the Year award from the Tavares Chamber of Commerce in its first year of operation. In May 2013, Ryan fulfilled a childhood dream by becoming part owner of Ruby Street Grille in downtown Tavares. He and business partner Andy Saunders combined their energy and creativity to take the restaurant to another level. “I know people love going to the beach to get away. Since the restaurant is located on beautiful Lake Dora, I wanted to recreate that environment and make it more of a beach bar atmosphere. I actually painted the back of our house Caribbean colors as a working template of my vision. I wanted to see if my friends and family could feel the vibe before making it public.” His most recent business venture is the 15-seat Tiki Bar Crawler, which gets partiers pedaling as they travel to various hotspots in the Tavares Waterfront Entertainment District for a few drinks. As Ryan steers the Crawler and operates the brakes, he adds a little excitement by moving to the beat of music playing over the surround sound system. “I purchased the Crawler to familiarize people with the great restaurants in the Tavares Waterfront Entertainment District. I go all-out to have fun and get people’s energy up.” Ryan also co-founded the Tavares Waterfront Entertainment District Group, a marketing company that reinvests funds back into the downtown waterfront. Ryan meets regularly with the organization’s other founders — Andrew O’Keefe and Lou Buigas — to discuss future plans. Lou says Ryan brings great ideas to the organization. “He is energetic whether you talk to him at 6:30a.m. or at midnight.”
FINDING STRENGTH THROUGH ADVERSITY
Oftentimes, people assume successful businessmen receive a large inheritance, or that the family business was passed to them on a silver platter. The opposite is true for Ryan. Studying to be a radiologist, he was forced to leave college midway through his sophomore year after being denied a student loan. He acquired $48,000 in debt due to identity theft. Several months later his father passed away. “I was just starting my life. I had a pile of debt that wasn’t mine and now had to deal with the death of my father. It was a life-defining moment for me. I knew then that it was time to stand up and become a man and change the way I thought about life. To be honest, had it not been for that incident I might not be where I am today.” His uncle, John Veraghen, and grandfather, Walter Veraghen, helped guide Ryan following his father’s death. “They became like dads to me and taught me about having a vision, work ethic, and treating people with respect.” Ryan also credits his parents, who owned a thriving outdoor furniture company in Michigan. As a boy, he worked there after school and during summers and also accompanied his father to expos throughout the Midwest. Ryan ultimately paid off that debt and received his first loan in 2004. Don’t dare tell him his achievements stem from luck. “Luck is the worst word I’ve ever heard. Success is all about hard work, intuition, vision, and putting yourself in position to succeed. My dad was a marketing and design genius who never slowed down. He always told me to have the eye of the tiger and to stay hungry, and my mom was the rock that held us together. She taught me how to take care of a family and how to make something out of nothing. For example, we would ride our bikes around town and collect cans to buy ourselves food when necessary.”
PEACE AT HOME
Despite working 80-hour weeks, Ryan does find time to have fun. In 2008, he built a new home — a feat that seemed impossible 10 years earlier. “Building the house was like reaching the top of a mountain. It was a childhood dream.” There’s also a tree house in his backyard that Ryan built on a whim. Using his imagination, he left a gap in the floor that the tree passes through. “Every kid wants a house in the trees; I just happen to be a 37-year-old kid.” His backyard is also home to one of his most creative innovations, Lambeau Field Southeast. Ryan, a former stock car driver, converted his mechanic shop into a mini-paradise for Green Bay Packers fans. “A group of my closest friends pitched in dollars and sweat to build this awesome fan cave. The Green Bay Packer roots run deep in us, and we gather inside this room for several hours each Sunday to escape the real world.”
FAMILY MAN
A hectic, fast-paced lifestyle did not stop Ryan from finding the love of his life in Brooke, whom he married in March 2014. “Brooke is my rock. She’s the most amazing person I’ve ever met. She inspires me and gives me great advice when I throw all my crazy ideas at her.” Brooke has a gleam in her eye when she speaks about her husband’s wonderful qualities. “He is a dedicated, sincere person with a really big heart. When we married, I already had a 5-year-old daughter, Campbell. He treats her like she is his own child. His zest for life inspires me.” In August, the couple will welcome a daughter into their lives. “I cannot wait,” Ryan says. “At the end of the day, these are my greatest moment … marrying Brooke and creating a family together.” Just another dream come true for a man who dares to dream big.
‘‘
BROOKE IS MY ROCK. SHE’S THE MOST AMAZING PERSON I’VE EVER MET. SHE INSPIRES ME AND GIVES ME GREAT ADVICE WHEN I THROW ALL MY CRAZY IDEAS AT HER.”
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NORMAN S. NOVIS, M.D., P.A.
Our patients’ care is our first priority.
WE OFFER VARIOUS MEDICAL SERVICES: • Adult medicine - preventative and routine services • Acute care • Blood pressure and heart diseases • COPD and other lung diseases • Dermatology • Minor surgeries • Osteoporosis care • Rheumatology - knee and other joint injections • Diabetes and other endocrine disorders • Nutritional/dietician services • Diabetic teaching • In-house diagnostics and lab
753 Highway 466 in Lady Lake 352.633.7659 // 352.633.7649 // www.pfpconline.com
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When it comes to buying a home, knowledge is power. That’s why our loan officers make sure you know your options. We listen to your questions, and work quickly to get the answers—and approval—you need. Call Janet or Jeanne today. We’re ready to help. Janet Noack NMLS#514772 352-589-4663 Jeanne Lazo NMLS#514769 352-771-2404
Found the perfect house? Let us find a mortgage that’s the perfect fit. 11 Convenient Lake County Locations • UnitedSouthernBank.com
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MEN Our 4th Annual
BUSINESS
WELCOME TO
of
“He’s the man with the plan.”
STYLE
We hear this phrase quite often, but it truly applies to the participants of our fourth annual Businessmen of Style. They make enormous impacts in their respective fields, open unique opportunities for others, and dare to dream big. At the same time, they care deeply about their families and communities in which they live. A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do, right? It’s just that these men do everything with lots of style… and class.
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ROB FROSS Owner
THOM FROSS Owner
CASEY O’ROURKE
PATRICK FROSS
Wealth Advisor
Vice President, Wealth Advisor
Locals know Fross & Fross Wealth Management for its symbolic bear and bull statue that prominently sits outside the office in Lake Sumter Landing. Of course, the company, which was founded by 42-year-old twin brothers Robert and Thomas Fross, is becoming increasingly popular on a national scale. The brothers have provided financial insight on popular shows such as “Fox Business News” and CNBC’s “Closing Bell” and have written columns for various industry journals. They also have a regular column on Forbes.com addressing various topics related to financial retirement planning. In addition, the firm assists other financial advisors throughout the country in utilizing some of the same principles and techniques they use for their clients. While their knowledge is in high demand nationally, the real reason clients continue doing business with Fross & Fross Wealth Management is because the company boasts a team of caring, approachable, and down-to-earth financial advisors. Simply put, they believe honesty, integrity, and unwavering service are the best ways to build meaningful relationships with clients. That is why the company manages around $500 million in client assets. In addition to Robert and Thomas, the Fross & Fross team of financial advisors includes their older brother, Patrick Fross, and Casey O’Rourke. Both have extensive experience in the financial services industry. “We take lots of pride working with individual clients,” Thomas says. “We add advisors to better serve our existing clients.”
FROSS & FROSS Wealth Management
910 OLD CAMP ROAD, BUILDING 90 THE VILLAGES, FL 32162 352.205.7800 FROSSANDFROSS.COM
DR. SCOT HOLMAN
DR. SCOTT WEHRLY
DR. MARK VOCCI
LakeEYE Like a fine wine, Lake Eye Associates simply gets better with time. Opened in 1977, Lake Eye is one of Central Florida’s oldest and most advanced eye care practices. Leading the way are three experienced, board-certified physicians who take pride in propelling the practice into the forefront of technology: Dr. Scott Wehrly, Dr. Mark Vocci, and Dr. Scot Holman. Lake Eye was the county’s first practice to treat cataracts with laser surgery. Using a state-of-the-art LenSx Laser allows them to plan and perform cataract surgeries with pinpoint precision. “We are one of the first practices to embrace new technology as long as it’s effective,” Dr. Holman says. “At the same time, we take an individualized approach in treating patients by getting to know them on a personal level.”
Tavares 352.343.2020 The Villages 352.750.2020 Leesburg 352.365.2020
Dr. John THEECK
CHIROPRACTOR/WELLNESS PHYSICIAN You may have heard those dreaded words from your doctor… “Here is another medication to cover up your symptom.” Medical doctors focus on making you feel good by covering up your symptoms with pharmaceutical masking agents. The doctors at Legacy Clinic practice a comprehensive approach to find the cause to your health problems. Dr. John Theeck understands there is a big difference between treating symptoms and discovering the root of the pain. At his practice, Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic, he utilizes complex examinations to determine the underlying problem. As a result, he continually helps alleviate or eliminate pain that has plagued patients for years. He treats everything from aching backs and feet to sinus infections and high blood pressure. “My job is rewarding because I help patients overcome debilitating pain. They are so thankful to have their lives back.”
“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest her or his patients in the care of the human frame, in a proper diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease.”
1950 LAUREL MANOR DRIVE, SUITE 204 THE VILLAGES, FL 32162 352.259.0024 LEGACYCLINIC.ORG
Blaine VERMEULEN PUBLIC INSURANCE ADJUSTER
Why do insurance companies fear this man? Blaine Vermeulen, President and CEO of Vermeulen Associates, a Licensed Public Adjusting firm with combined experience of over 75 years, assisting the public in the preparation and negotiation of their insurance claims; is a true champion, and advocate of the policy holder. Odds are most of the public do not know what a public adjuster is. When you experience a fire, hurricane, tornado, sink hole or earthquake claim; your insurance company sends out their adjuster. He works for the Insurance Company, and not for the public. “I’m always amazed,” Blaine says “that people think the Insurance adjuster works for them – that is absolutely not true!” The Insurance Company’s adjuster works for the Insurance Company, and not for you, the public. His job and responsibility is to protect the Insurance Company’s assets, and limit their liability in the claim. You are allowed to hire your own adjuster (Public Adjuster), and you should! When should you do this? The answer is simple; immediately. Your claim and recovery depends on prompt action and analysis. Insurance Companies attempt to settle, and develop evaluations in the first days of a claim, which may result in you not receiving what you are entitled to for your claim. Vermeulen Associates can represent your interest in what can be a very critical window of opportunity. An initial consultation, with no cost or obligation, can help with your first catastrophe, your loss; which will prevent a second catastrophe, not being sufficiently paid in order to make your repairs. Please contact us for a free consultation.
352.383.6438 • VERMEULENASSOCIATES.COM • BLAINEGV@GMAIL.COM
DR. FELIX ESAREY
DR. JOHNNY WU
Tri-County PODIATRY Phenomenal physicians. Phenomenal reputations. Phenomenal results. Drs. Felix Esarey and Johnny Wu of TriCounty Podiatry help residents of Florida’s Healthiest Hometown continue living active lifestyles. Their knowledge, superb communication skills, and genuine, caring approach are the main reasons why 47,000 patients have sought treatment at Tri-County Podiatry since 2006. “We always do what is best for the patient and treat them exactly how we would treat our parents,” says Dr. Wu. “From the initial phone call through follow-up appointments, we want patients to have the best experience possible.”
1585 SANTA BARBARA BLVD, STE. B THE VILLAGES, FL 32159 352.259.1919 TRICOUNTYPODIATRY.NET
Norman .D. NOVIS, M ICINE
INTERNAL MED
NORMAN S. NOVIS, M.D., PA
Always one to sta y on the cutting edge of medicine, Dr. Norman S. Novi s has recently introdu ced exciting diag nostic and treatment op tions. Among them are the office’s capabilities of do ing pulmonary fu nction tests, echocardio gram, and various ultrasounds to be tter treat heart an d lung diseases. He recently got ce rtified as a wound specialist and no w has the experti se in using hyperberic treatments for pa tients with chronic wou nds. “I always stay ab reast of the latest technology and receive ongoing education so I can best serv e my patients,” sa ys Dr. Novis, who op ened the practic e in December 2012. “When you run a medical practice, you ha ve to be at par or better in different fields of medicine.”
NORMAN S. NOVIS, M.D. 753 COUNTY ROAD 466 LADY LAKE, FL 32159 352.633.7659
Michael BRASHEAR With six Anytime Fitness locations spread throughout Lake, Sumter, and Marion counties, Michael Brashear stays busy. Nevertheless, whenever he visits one of his gyms, he always makes time to hear the stories of clients who have transformed their lives. “I’ve watched people change. I’ve heard the success stories, and that’s what motivates me to do my job,” Michael says. “It’s great to see people becoming not only fit, but healthier overall.” “The best thing is Anytime Fitness is its name. You can exercise whenever and wherever you want,” he adds. “And with us being smaller than the big box gyms, we can offer personal, individualized attention to help people reach their fitness goals.”
352.742.2008 ANYTIMEFITNESS.COM
KEVIN P. NOON
ANIS SHAHMIRI
MSN, ARNP
M.D., Internal Medicine
TOM TRAN
PA-C, MPAS
MIKE RICHARDS PA-C, MPAS
KALPESH SOLANKI
D.O., Cardiology
DONALD LIEBELT
M.D., Primary Care
JULIO C. UGARTE
M.D., Primary Care
ASAD U. QAMAR
M.D., Cardiology
ICE If Dr. Asad Qamar is the heart of ICE, it is safe to say his male counterparts on the support staff of physicians, techs and clinicians are the soul. Together, every one of these healthcare professionals shares in a singular vision that guides their interactions with patients. It even influences the ways they interact with one another. “We hear it from patients all the time,” says Kevin Noon, ARNP. “That coming to ICE feels more like a visit with friends. Which is Dr. Qamar’s doing and we’re all just following his lead.” That sentiment—ask any patient in the waiting room and you’ll likely hear it echoed more than once—stems from the treatment approach Dr. Qamar established from the very beginning. “I still love what I do,” says Dr. Qamar. “I want to work as long as I am having fun working. It’s as simple as that.”
Dale CRADDOCK OWNER
Dale Craddock, owner of Outlook Lawn & Landscape, believes that in order to be sucessful, you must first remember to always serve the client and second, that there is no substitute for hard work. “Every day, I strive to run a service-oriented company of excellence.” Dale credits his mother and father for instilling in him the strong work ethics and family values that he applies to his daily business. “I watched them get up early every day and go to work,” he says. “They showed me the true meaning of hard work.” Dale also praises his employees for their continuous dedication to excellence. “We always strive to work as an orchestra. Everyone must work in harmony, not only our team members, but with our clientele as well,” he says. “Our ultimate goal is to serve the client’s every landscaping, irrigation, and pest control need. When the customers are satisfied and happy, that lets us know we’ve done our job.”
OUTLOOK LAWN & LANDSCAPE, LLC P.O. BOX 1352 MOUNT DORA, FL 32757 DALECRADDOCKJR@YAHOO.COM 352.223.4838
Dr. Isaac DEAS DEAS CONSULTING, LLC
INTERFAITH CHAPLAIN AT CORNERSTONE HOSPICE As the interfaith chaplain at Cornerstone Hospice, Dr. Isaac Deas wants to educate the community on what hospice has to offer. “It’s not just about death and dying. It’s about quality of life and helping people find peace,” he says. “We want people to understand they are not alone.” From respite care to bereavement services, Dr. Deas says hospice is about helping people through different situations. It closely mimics his professional work as a licensed mental health counselor. “I counsel a lot of adults and adolescents for various reasons,” he says. “However, at the end of the day, I am still about guiding people and giving them the tools to succeed in life.”
385 W. ALFRED STREET TAVARES, FL 32778 352.406.1264 DEASCONSULTING.COM 2445 LANE PARK ROAD TAVARES, FL 32778 352.343.1341 CSHOSPICE.ORG
Joe CICERI
OWNER
While most business owners relish the thought of growing into a large operation, Joe Ciceri enjoys maintaining his small business identity. “When people call, they can talk directly to me. I keep a lot of business that way. They know they aren’t going to get the run around,” he says. Joe opened Electrical Works almost seven years ago. His company handles all commercial and residential projects — from breakers and switches to electrical panels and circuits. They also offer 24-hour emergency service. “We do our work based on integrity,” says Joe, who has more than 20 years of experience as an electrician in Lake County. “I take pride in doing a quality job at a fair price and I always stand behind my work.”
ELECTRICAL WORKS 352.324.3345
DEAN SIMMONS
RICH KELLEY
Ryan VERAGHEN
BUSINESS OWNER
Owning five companies requires an impeccable work ethic. Just ask Ryan Veraghen, who owns Aluminum Concepts, R Car Automotive, Ruby Street Grille, Tiki Bar Crawler, and the Tavares Waterfront Entertainment District Group. He works an extreme amount of hours, but loves the constant challenges of business. “After work, I come home and answer emails and prepare for the next day,” says Ryan, a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. “I love running multiple businesses because that is how I’m geared. My heart beats just as fast at 6a.m. as it does at 3p.m.” Ryan’s schedule won’t ease up anytime soon. In August, he and his wife, Brooke, are expecting a baby girl.
R CAR AUTOMOTIVE 903 E ALFRED ST., TAVARES, FL 32778 352.742.0661 RCARAUTOMOTIVE.COM RUBY STREET GRILLE 221 E RUBY ST., TAVARES, FL 32778 RUBYSTREETGRILLE.COM TIKI BAR CRAWLER 440 W MAIN ST., TAVARES, FL 32778 352.636.0742 TIKIBARCRAWLER.COM
Judd DICKERSON In Judd Dickerson’s opinion, one of the keys to being a good architect is being an even better listener. “We have to be able to interpret our clients’ goals and aspirations and transform them into functional aesthetically pleasing works of art,” he says. This attention to detail and exceptional customer service is why the award-winning firm of John S. Dickerson Architect, Inc. has been a visionary in architectural design services for private and commercial clients throughout Florida since 1978. “We combine artistic passion and enduring design concepts with advanced technology to create icons of inimitable function and beauty,” Judd says. When Judd is not working, he is coaching Little League in Lady Lake.
1215 PENN ST., P.O. BOX 492226 LEESBURG, FL 34749 352.787.3771 DICKERSONARCHITECT.COM LICENSED ARCHITECT: AR96780
Joe ZILER
PRESIDENT/OWNER Maybe you’re ready to build your dream home, or perhaps you’re wanting a simple remodel to make your house feel more cozy. Nowadays, more and more people throughout Central Florida are trusting the expertise and quality craftsmanship of Kevco Builders to get the job done right. Their commitment to innovation, integrity, and excellence is evidenced by becoming Lake County’s most award-winning builder and remodeler. President and owner Joe Ziler and his team take a great deal of pride in each job and want their work to be worthy of a client’s investment. “We look at our awards as validation from our customers that we are meeting their expectations every single time,” he says. “They also reflect the great job our employees have done over the years.”
2104 S. BAY ST. EUSTIS, FL 32726 352.742.3398 KEVCOBUILDERS.COM
Bill MATHIAS From concept to completion, Mathias Foodservice has offered cutting edge design and procurement services to the hospitality industry since 1982. Bill founded his company on a simple mission statement, “Integrity of Person, Product, Pricing, and Service.” Strictly by word of mouth, Bill’s company has completed projects in over thirty states and fourteen countries. “‘Buy American’ isn’t just lip service. My clients know when they deal with us, they get the quality and service that only exists with using American manufacturers.” Bill also currently serves on the Lake County School Board. “I am passionate about education. With a quality education comes opportunity,” he said.
Dr. Randy GLISSON
Dr. Jim Glisson came to Lake County in 1963 with $700 and a dream. Within five years, he had a successful chiropractic practice and was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. He served in state government from 1968 to 1978. This made an impression on his son, Randy Glisson. “I saw a father who genuinely cared about his patients and constituents.” Randy has continued the Glisson family tradition. After graduating chiropractic school, he joined his father’s practice in 1986. Seven years later, they co-founded Lake Health Care Center, a multispecialty clinic offering chiropractic, family medicine, and podiatry. “I’m proud to follow in my father’s footsteps. Our family has proudly served Lake County residents for more than 50 years.”
RANDY GLISSON
JIM GLISSON
Danny TEEMS BROKER/OWNER
As Broker and owner of RE/MAX Realty Center International in Eustis, Danny Teems ensures that all clients will receive the highest level of service. Their satisfaction is of the utmost importance to him and his partner, Leigh Ann Pippin. “Our goal is to exceed their expectations, while providing a positive real estate experience,” says Danny. When asked how he achieves this he answers, “Our agents are the best of the best,” and explains that one of their main sources of business is referrals and repeat business. This alone speaks volumes about his company. Danny also prides himself in working with each agent individually and as a team. Helping the agents achieve their goals and utilizing the tools available to them ensures a high level of customer service. One of the ways RE/MAX Realty Center International differentiates itself from other Real Estate companies is that they offer clients the option to custom build their dream home or choose from one of the many floor plans available through their New Home Division. Danny states, “In addition to assisting buyers, we have even helped many sellers sell their existing home so they can build a new home that better fits their needs and lifestyle.”
RE/MAX REALTY CENTER INTERNATIONAL 2801 S. BAY ST., EUSTIS, FL 32726 352.508.5532 HOUSESINLAKE.COM
Alan, Taylor, and Miles STEWART There’s something to be said for a business that can celebrate 35 years of service. “Since 1979, we have believed in taking care of our customers and leaving them happy and satisfied,” says owner Alan Stewart. “We try to exceed their expectations.” Such commitment to quality service and workmanship by Alan and his sons Taylor and Miles is why The Floor Shoppe continues to be a primary supplier of flooring to The Villages and has recently completed a number of commercial projects, including the Eisenhower Recreation Center, The Villages Sales & Information Center, and the MVP Athletic Club. What sets The Floor Shoppe apart from its competitors is its level of supervision. “We have supervisors that go behind every retail installation and do quality control prior to the completion of a job,” says Alan.
9815 U.S. HIGHWAY 301 WILDWOOD, FL 34785 352.748.4811 THEFLOORSHOPPE.COM
“Becoming a resident of Freedom Pointe was the best decision I could make, where the programs, social opportunities and dining experiences are second to none! I’m happy my family recommended this community as a place for me to continue enjoying a well-rounded lifestyle. Even though I am fit, trim, healthy and capable for my years, having fewer responsibilities than I had living alone at home is simply wonderful. Freedom Pointe at The Villages is a good thing, and my family certainly agrees.”
Frank Garrison and his family at Freedom Pointe
– Frank Garrison, Freedom Pointe resident
Join us for coffee, conversation and culinary delights!
Tuesday, June 24 | 9:30 a.m. Get the inside scoop from those who know Freedom Pointe the best…!the residents! Space is limited.
For reservations and more information, call 1-866-612-8225. A Life Care Community 1550 El Camino Real | The Villages, FL 32159 | brookdale.com
Events by Miss Daisy’s Let us plan your event!
Weddings
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Birthdays
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Luncheons
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Anniversaries
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Corporate Parties
Miss Daisy’s Flowers & Gifts
“Whatever Your Occasion, Let Miss Daisy’s Make It Special!”
1024 W. Main Street Leesburg, FL
352.787.6806
www.MissDaisysFlowers.c om June 20 14
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Hatching success stories
THE LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE BUSINESS INCUBATOR PROGRAM SUPPORTS INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURIALISM BY GIVING NEW AND DEVELOPING BUSINESSES A STRONG START.
“
FOR ME, IT’S A JOY TO WATCH BUSINESSES COME, GROW, AND LEAVE THE INCUBATOR STRONG AND WITH CONTINUED GROWTH AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS.” —NANCY MUENZMAY, DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS INCUBATOR PROGRAMS
The Economic Development Department is constantly striving to make Lake County the premier destination in Florida for business and industry. One program that fosters an environment for business growth, economic vitality, and employment opportunities is the Lake-Sumter State College Business Incubator Program. Traditional clients receive a number of benefits and support services designed to help them through the critical initial years in business. “We give startup businesses a strong foundation through training, mentoring, affordable office space, and other benefits,” says Nancy Muenzmay, director of business incubator programs. “We provide an environment to grow and on-site resources for business development,
business plan writing, and marketing. All of these benefits combined increase their chances for long-term success.” For businesses that do not need static office space or continuous mentoring services, the business incubator program offers an expanded incubation concept that includes co-working space, executive suites, conference rooms, and copy and fax machines at a reasonable price.
MARC ROBERTZ-SCHWARTZ, HOMETOWN HEALTH TV LLC
DENNIS MCGEE MR. HANDYMAN
It was at a networking lunch that Marc Robertz-Schwartz first heard about the business incubator program. At the time, he was working out of his house, and while he found it to be convenient, he felt being at home didn’t foster a professional business environment. “Taking a shower, getting dressed, and going to a building everyday provided a sense of professionalism that I didn’t have before when I was working from home,” he says. “I had access to a conference room and other business resources that I believe helped clients view me in a different way. They saw me as a true business professional.” Though Robertz-Schwartz was contracted to stay at the incubator for three years, he was able to graduate a month early. “My business started with just me and the dog at home. Now, I have 10 employees and I’m ready to move into my second location,” he says. “I have no doubt Hometown Health TV LLC would have been successful, but I believe the incubator program helped us get there faster and opened my eyes to areas we didn’t realize we would eventually succeed in.” In 2012, Hometown Health TV LLC received an international National Business Incubation Association award in the outstanding incubator client in the non-technology category. The company was selected from a field of 7,000 applicants worldwide.
Dennis McGee started his business in the pit of the recession. It was June 2009 and since reports were saying the economy had finally reached rock bottom, McGee figured there was no place to go but up. Making a home for his Mr. Handyman franchise in the business incubator in Leesburg was a godsend, he says. “You get support from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). You get office space, Internet, and support from the city. What I want people to understand is this isn’t just cheap startup space. It’s an opportunity center where if you don’t take advantage of the opportunities, you’re losing out,” he says. Over the past five years, McGee’s Mr. Handyman franchise has increased its business by 23 percent every year. In the first quarter of this year, business was double what it was last year. “I started with me and one other employee. Now I have four technicians and I’m planning to hire a fifth.” One of the biggest things McGee says he took away from being a part of the incubator program was more confidence as a business owner. “It’s not about how much you learn, it’s about confirming that my business is on the right track. I know it’s Pollyanna but I think the incubator program is the best thing for business,” he says.
MARK STARCHER,
EVERGREEN CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, INC. For Mark Starcher, one the biggest draws to the business incubator program was its success rate for launching businesses, which was higher than the market average. Therefore, he started Evergreen Construction Management in 2009. Then in 2010, the economy tanked. “Banks were failing, commercial lending was nonexistent, institutions were not spending, and every project was a hard fought battle with little to no profit potential,” he says. “No one thought a commercial construction business startup was a good idea or would have much chance of succeeding.” However, Starcher credits the incubator for keeping his business afloat during those tumultuous years. “It helped me survive, while learning to compete,” he says “Then in 2012, some great high profile projects started coming in and it hasn’t stopped.” This year, Evergreen Construction Management has 25 to 30 statewide projects. “Our volume of business has more than doubled every year since we started.” And while Starcher believes the incubator helped him understand the fundamental issues he would face in starting a business, he wants anyone interested in the program to remember it’s not substitute for hard work. “You have to have realistic expectations,” he says. “They are not going to run your business for you or keep you from going under if you make costly mistakes. It’s going to take an unstoppable desire to succeed and a divine source of strength to keep you going.”
They’re the jobs that make some people wince, or worse gag, but, hey someone has to do them. STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+MATTHEW GAULIN
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MECHANIC:
LAKE-SUMTER TRANSMISSIONS Leesburg
Inside the 10-bay garage of Lake-Sumter Transmissions, mechanic James Rowe carefully lays parts on a metal work bench as he disassembles a transmission. “Thank God for improved soap,” says James, whose forearms, hands, and fingernails are covered in oil. “One of the messiest parts of this job is dealing with a burnt-up transmission. When I’m disassembling the parts, fluid and sludge get on my skin. I smell like varnished, burnt transmission fluid for two days.” Sweat drips down the face of Brian Humphreys, who is repairing an GMC van. “Fourwheel drive trucks can be difficult to work on because underneath they are caked with mud. When you pull out the transmission, mud gets on you and all over the floor.” A shower in the garage allows mechanics to clean up before driving home. And each day, employees try to leave the garage as spotless as possible. “We sweep and put down a special product that contains antifreeze spills and absorbs oil,” says Roger Berry, who opened the company with Mike Hall 34 years ago. “Nothing is allowed to be washed outside the garage due to environmental concerns.”
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PET GROOMER: PET SPA AND LODGE Leesburg As soon as he’s off his leash, Rico, an energetic shih tzu, bolts toward the small dog play area at Pet Spa and Lodge in Leesburg. Potential playmates circle him with their tails wagging and give Rico a warm welcome. Over in the play area for larger breeds, Raina, a German shepherd, chews a tennis ball while lying on a chair. Nearby, Rigby, a goldendoodle, and Beau, a yellow Labrador retriever, play happily with an assortment of rug toys. Pet Lodge and Spa offers daycare, grooming, and boarding services. The 10,000-square-foot facility features two play areas for smaller breeds, two play areas for medium-sized breeds, and two play areas for larger breeds. “We’re like a kindergarten for dogs,” says Sandy Metcalf, who opened the company two years ago with her husband, Bill. And like most kindergartens, the “students” can be downright messy. In the grooming room, fur flies everywhere as three dogs on hydraulic tables receive their annual summer cuts. A stainless steel vacuum designed to neutralize strong odors sucks up mounds of fur that have accumulated on the tile floor. “Wet hair sticks together and rolls, while dry hair goes everywhere,” says Amy Hawkins, a grooming assistant. “I get sinus infections and deal with runny noses and itchy eyes. I’m always taking a medication for allergies. However, my passion for this job outweighs the messiness. The joy I derive from being around dogs and having the opportunity to love them makes it all worthwhile.” When groomer JoAnne Shaut finishes grooming a Maltese named Springer, she uses a rotating sanding drum to trim his nails. “When I am trimming nails I always get a little dust on myself and have to endure
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an odor that smells like burnt skin,” she says. JoAnne passes off Springer to Amy, who is in charge of bathing, one of the messiest parts of dog grooming. Amy lifts Springer’s tail, places her fingers on the dog’s anal glands, and pinches, releasing a yellow fluid. The process helps prevent anal glands from becoming impacted, which can lead to difficult and painful bowel movements. “The fluid smells horrible, and if you don’t scrub your hands quickly they will stink for hours,” Amy says. “I always remove any excess fluid or waste before the bath so dogs don’t get it on themselves afterward.” Meanwhile, back in one of the play areas, a small dog has an accident. Employee Nicole Cohoon arrives quickly at the scene armed with a mop bucket and bag. “We clean it up immediately because we don’t want the other dogs to get dirty. We strive to keep a clean facility,” Nicole says. “For me, the messiest part of the job is scrubbing the private kennels on my hands and knees. I try to be careful and not get residual poop and dog hair on myself.” Several times a day, employees take the dogs on potty breaks to an enclosed, shaded outdoor area in the back of the building. They are allowed to “go” on blacktop or artificial grass. Afterward, the blacktop is mopped up with vinegar, which effectively deodorizes a dog’s urine. The artificial grass is soaked in a tub full of vinegar and bleach. While dozens of dogs come through its doors on any given day, Pet Lodge and Spa maintains a clean, odor-free environment. The facility is equipped with hospitalgrade UVC lights that kill viruses and bacteria in the air. “One of the most frequent compliments we receive is how clean our facility smells,” Sandy says. “We certainly don’t want our dogs to go home dirty or with any illnesses.”
DISASTER RESTORATION SPECIALIST: RESTORATION SPECIALISTS Leesburg They enter homes wearing white hooded suits, respirators, and gloves, but they are not hazmat workers trying to prevent exposure to dangerous materials. They’re the crew at Restoration Specialists, and they wear Tyvek® coveralls to protect themselves from mold. Oftentimes, mold occurs in unoccupied homes that have not been airconditioned. It festers on walls, floors, ceiling tile, and baseboards. “Mold is harmful and can get into cuts and sores,” says Tom Smith, an estimator at Restoration Specialists, which has an office in Leesburg that services 18 Florida counties. “Exposure to mold can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory problems. For this reason, we do not work in mold-infested homes for more than two or three hours at a time. We also use air scrubbers to help eliminate mold spores, which are extremely small.” The company also provides restoration services to homes that have been damaged by fire or flood. “With fires, odor is a big issue, and ashes are everywhere. I’ve done estimations for many fire-damaged homes and have walked out black. In flooded homes, we wear gloves and respirators because flood water is polluted with toxic bacteria. It gets into too many nooks and crannies, and we have to remove everything it touches. For instance, flood water will run under cabinets, and without taking the cabinet out, we would never get to it.”
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HORSEBACK RIDING INSTRUCTOR CROSS RAILS RIDING ACADEMY Clermont
DISHING MORE DIRT ONLINE WE’RE ONLY ABLE TO PROVIDE A GLIMPSE OF THE YUCKIEST OF MESSY JOBS HERE; TO GET REALLY DOWN AND DIRTY, VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE “DIRTY” IMAGES. WE PROMISE NONE OF FRED LOPEZ’S PHOTOS ARE SCRATCH-AND-SNIFF.
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It’s a hot April morning at Cross Rails Riding Academy, which overlooks Clermont’s beautiful rolling hills. With a piece of hay dangling from her mouth, Wilma, a registered Palomino horse, sticks her head over the stall door. As Nan Frese approaches, she nudges Nan with her nose, as if to say, “I’m excited to see you.” Nan leads Wilma to a shower stall, crossties her, and begins hosing off her golden yellow coat. Wilma delights in the temporary relief from the sizzling heat, but for Nan, it’s a different story. Mist leaves her shoes and the bottom of her jeans soaked. She sneezes several times — perhaps from the hay in her brown hair. “This job requires me to be outdoors, so I always wear sunscreen. Unfortunately, dirt, horse hair, and dander all stick to the sunscreen. I stay dirty,” she says. Nan received her first pony at age 5 and has competed in hundreds of riding competitions throughout the years. She opened Cross Rails Riding Academy in 2002 to teach children and adults English riding styles such as dressage and equitation. An outdoor arena with jumping obstacles is located on her property. Teaching is the fun part of her job. The messy part is keeping her 12-stall stable and horses clean. Nan enters the stall of Singapore, a 26-year-old retired show horse that is grazing in a nearby field. She uses a pitch fork to scoop a mound of waste into a wheel barrel. Then, she pours a 50-pound bag of horse shavings, or bedding, onto the stall floor. Shavings absorb excess urine and moisture. She cleans each stall daily. “Fortunately, I am immune to the odor. But my boots live outside and never come into the house. The bad thing is I have bad allergies and I’m always sneezing. If I go into the barn to get a bale of hay, I start sneezing uncontrollably. Horses get things dirty, so for me it’s constant cleaning.” After spending three hours cleaning every afternoon, Nan teaches riding students until 8p.m. Her husband cooks on most nights because dealing with children and manure leaves her exhausted by the end of the day. “Each night, I get into the shower smelling like a horse and clean myself until the hot water runs out. Once I’m clean, it’s lights out.” Still, Nan loves her demanding job, even if there’s little time for horseplay. “I guess I was born with a gene to be around horses. The messiness and long hours does not faze me at all. I love being dirty. If I didn’t, I suppose I’d get burned out.”
ROOFER:
SCOTT SMITH ROOFING Leesburg As Waylon Mitchell stands atop a home, the rays of mid-morning May sun beat down on him like a blast from a hot furnace. With a safety harness strapped around his white, sweat-stained shirt, he uses a shovel equipped with special “teeth” to remove nails and pry loose old shingles. After tossing about a dozen cracked and worn shingles into a black trailer in the driveway below, he reaches for his Gatorade sitting on the roof’s edge. He takes a swig and makes his way down a ladder for a much-needed break. Loosened granules from the shingles — as well as dirt and debris — have accumulated on his shirt and shorts. He pours water on his hands, which have become sticky from the exposed asphalt. Roofing can be downright messy and hot, but Waylon realizes somebody has to do it. “I know being a roofer is not for everybody, but for me, the rewarding part is completing a job and seeing a smile on the client’s face because he is satisfied. But I will admit when I’m finished each day I am thinking about a hot shower and cold drink.” Waylon works for Scott Smith Roofing, which has offices in Ocala and Leesburg. The company
started 28 years ago and today is owned by Wayne Smith and his nephew, Scott Smith. According to Scott, a typical roofing job requires a four-man crew and takes three days to complete. “For each job, we have a trailer parked in the driveway for our crew to throw the old shingles in. They are taken to a landfill.
This protects the landscape and helps keep small pieces that break off away from the house. We would never dump old roofing onto grass and pick it up later because we want the property to remain clean.” Before the crew installs new shingles, they must apply roof cement. Scott says this is one of the
messiest aspects of roofing. “If the cement gets on you, it hardens. That means it’s scrub time. Pouring gasoline on the cement gets rid of it the fastest because the gasoline liquefies it. However, using gasoline is not necessarily the safest way. You can also use an orange citrus cleaner to help get the cement off.”
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BUTCHER:
BELLEVIEW MEATS AND SEAFOOD Belleview It’s Wednesday afternoon at Belleview Meats and Seafood, and customers continuously walk in to browse the glass display case featuring an assortment of freshly-cut sirloin and ribeye steaks, pork chops, and Italian sausages. But the real action’s in the back of the store. On a white cutting board table lays the headless, hairless carcass of a 200-pound hog
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recently killed by a hunter. Jennifer Nice, a 32-year-old petite blonde who looks like she should be working in a boutique, runs the carcass through a bandsaw, splitting the hog down its backbone. The friction of the blade hitting the bone causes a burnt aroma. Minutes later, she carefully cuts pork chops, sausage, ribs, and whole ham to the hunter’s specifications.. With dried blood under her fingernails, a bloodstained apron, and shoes covered in small chunks of meat, Jennifer shreds the stereotype of burly
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male meat cutters to pieces. Dealing with blood and foul odors every day hardly fazes her. Cutting meat is how she brings home the bacon. “I don’t have to see the faces of these animals, and if I did, things might be different. This is a fun and challenging job. It is never boring, and I really enjoy satisfying our customers. I formerly worked as a rockclimbing instructor, and I’ve also done electric work. So I’m used to getting dirty.” By no means, though, is the odor of raw meat one of life’s pleasantries. “After work
I pick up my children from school and immediately take a shower. I know my shoes must reek because my dog loves smelling them when I arrive home.” Jennifer’s boyfriend, Clay Waldron, has owned Belleview Meats and Seafood for four years. A first-generation butcher, he, too, has no qualms getting his hands dirty. “Sometimes you get blood or chicken juice on your face,” he says. “And when you’re working with ground pork you are covered in meat up to your elbows. It can get pretty nasty in this business, no question.” Hunting season is undoubtedly the busiest time of the year, and processing game meat can be downright filthy. “People bring hogs or deer to us in coolers,” Clay says. “The coolers leak bloody water onto the floor. We also have to reach into the animals and remove the shotgun pellets or bullet.” Inside the cutting room are two walk-in freezers with shelves of neatly wrapped and labeled meat packages. It’s also where meat scraps are stored. “A garbage truck only comes here once a week, so we have to freeze the scraps before placing them in the dumpster,” Clay explains. “Otherwise, it would stink to high heaven.” The crew sanitizes cutting boards throughout the day and uses bleach to mop the floor each night. They are also conscious about washing their hands before waiting on customers.
NOT SO DIRTY JOBS GARBAGE COLLECTOR: SOLID WASTE DIVISION Lake County There was a time when garbage trucks required a three-man crew. One person drove, while the others slung overflowing trash bags stuffed with spoiled food and dirty diapers into the back of the vehicle. Today, the job is a lot less trashier thanks to technology. In Leesburg, the Solid Waste Division uses one-man trucks equipped with a hydraulic arm that lifts and dumps 90-gallon garbage containers. “While sitting in a cab, I use a joystick to control the arm to pick up the can, dump it, and put it back on the ground,” says Shawn Archie, a four-year Solid Waste Division employee. “I rarely leave the cab of the truck.” In a given year, Leesburg Solid Waste crews collect 8,473 tons of trash from residential homes and 12,582 tons of trash from commercial sites. The 10-truck fleet covers a 34-square mile area each week. The solid waste is delivered to Covanta, a local energy plant, and converted into electricity to power thousands of homes.
MANURE MANUFACTURER: BLACK GOLD COMPOST COMPANY Oxford At Black Gold Compost Company, numerous elevated cow manure mounds stretch as far as the eye can see. The only things missing are buzzing flies and a horrible stench. Odor-causing bacteria has been killed through a process called composting. The company, which is based in Oxford, provides consumers with aerobically composted cow manure that moisturizes native soil and is ideal for vegetable gardens and flower beds. Fortunately, working with cow manure does not make the job crappy for the 18 employees at the company packaging plant. Once the manure is composted, a state-of-the-art palletizer machine does much of the work. Yellow bags move along a conveyor belt and are electronically filled with manure. The 50-pound bags are then weighed, heat-sealed, and neatly stacked one by one on shipping pallets and covered with black wrap. Trucks deliver the product throughout the Southeast, as well as Texas and Oklahoma. “Our technology and equipment eliminates the need to ever touch cow manure,” says Michael Lange, president of the company. “Nobody really gets too dirty here.”
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Wednesday, June 4th @ 10 AM MAGIC SHOW by RAUSHAN HAMMOND World class entertainment at its finest.
Wednesday, June 11th @ 2 PM ENTERTAINMENT by STEVE ROBINSON Join us for a fun afternoon of music and dancing.
Friday, June 20th @ 2 PM BIRTHDAY BASH Help us celebrate the June birthdays of our residents. Entertainment by Mr. October. Refreshments will be served.
Friday, June 27th @ 2 PM HAPPY HOUR with LOU KATZ Be happy with us! Music, beverages, refreshments, and a lot of fun!
Seating is limited so please RSVP 352-873-2036
Over 300 colors
in stock!
COUNTERTOPS • VANITIES • FIREPLACES • FLOORING • CUSTOM FABRICATION
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Featuring
BIG LEAGUE, SMALL EGOS
FORMER BASEBALL STARS PREFER TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT Page 7 YEAH, YEAH, YEAH
BEATLEMANIACS CLUB STRIKES A CHORD WITH HUNDRED OF MEMBERS Page 2
Plus
SO IN LOVE
LIBBY AND SCOTT SCOBELL STILL COLLEGE SWEETHEARTS Page 4
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CLUB OF THE MONTH STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: PROVIDED
FAB FOUR-EVER
THE BEATLES STRIKE A CHORD WITH LOCAL FANS.
When it comes to The Beatles, Jim Fraser is a walking encyclopedia. “I read books on The Beatles all the time. I am a Beatle-ologist. But I only have a bachelor’s degree, not a doctorate,” he jokes. As a resident of Boston, Jim was lead guitarist in a Beatles tribute band that played together from 1990 to 2011. The band, called Magical Mystery Four, performed primarily at parks and restaurants throughout the city. When he moved to The Villages in April 2012, Jim wanted to associate with other Beatles fans. So he formed the Beatlemaniacs as a way to remember and celebrate one of the most popular bands in American history. “The impact The Beatles had on American culture and music was amazing. Throughout the years, their music has remained very popular among the generations. When I was playing in
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my band, I would see 12 year olds in the audience singing the songs.” The club became an instant hit. More than 200 people have joined the Beatlemaniacs, and quite a few are former musicians. The meetings, which are held each Friday at the Odell Recreation Center from 10a.m. to noon, begin with a half-hour “This Week in Beatles History” presentation. Afterward, members watch movies or documentaries about the band such as Nowhere Boy, a film about John Lennon’s adolescence. The meeting concludes with a live performance of Beatles music. “You do not have to be a musician to be part of this club,” Jim says. “I refer to us as the most fun club in The Villages. We always have a wonderful time.” That was evident on Feb. 9 when the club celebrated the 50th anniversary of the band’s first live performance on
the “Ed Sullivan Show.” More than 200 people listened to the fascinating stories of guest speaker Chris Huston, a former musician who became friends with John Lennon at the Liverpool College of Art. “It was a once-in-alifetime opportunity,” says Villager George Makrauer, a drummer in the Cincinnati-based band The Torquays in the 1960s. “There is nothing a Beatles fan could want more than to hear a fascinating talk from a schoolmate and friend of John Lennon.” George also enjoys doing his part in keeping the music of John, Paul, George, and Ringo alive.
“Sometimes members will bring their grandchildren to our meetings. When you see a 6-year-old child singing a cappella and on key to ‘Yellow Submarine,’ it’s reassuring about our future.” There are no dues to be a member of the Beatlemaniacs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL JIM FRASER AT 352.272.0724 OR VISIT BEATLEMANIACSROCK.COM.
Leesburg Events! www.LeesburgEvents.com
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meet villagers STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: MATTHEW GAULIN
SCOTT AND LIBBY SCOBELL MADLY IN LOVE: Scott and Libby married 44 years ago. They met at West Virginia State College, where Libby worked as a reference librarian and Scott was an associate professor of health and safety. They are best friends who share similar interests and maintain a sense of humor — keys, they say, to a successful marriage. FINDING FLORIDA’S FRIENDLIEST HOMETOWN: Both retired from West Virginia State College — Scott in 1994 and Libby in 1995. They traveled throughout the U.S. looking for the ideal place to retire before moving to The Villages in 2000. They were amazed by all the amenities as well as the diversity of the people. SEEING THE SITES: Scott and Libby have traveled through all 50 states and most Canadian provinces. They have also visited Mexico, London, Paris, and Normandy. Libby’s favorite U.S. destination is San Francisco because of its “fabulous terrain and architecture.” Scott loves Alaska because “each town has its own personality, and I love the state’s diverse terrain.” IN TUNE: Both are big fans of music. They have attended performances at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in Orlando, the Curtis M. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in Gainesville, and the Suncoast Jazz Classic in Clearwater. GOING CLUBBIN’: Scott and Libby belong to the Jazz Lovers Club of The Villages and the African-American Club in The Villages. Scott, who attained the prestigious rank of Life Master Bridge player, also belongs to The Villages Duplicate Bridge Club. Libby is a member of The Villages Computer Club.
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CDC Prediabetes Screening Test COULD YOU HAVE PREDIABETES? Prediabetes means your blood glucose (sugar) is higher than normal, but not yet diabetes. Diabetes is a serious disease that can cause heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, or loss of feet or legs. Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented in people with prediabetes through effective lifestyle programs. Take the first step. Find out your risk for prediabetes.
TAKE THE TEST—KNOW YOUR SCORE!
Answer these seven simple questions. For each “Yes” answer, add the number of points listed. All “No” answers are 0 points.
Yes
No
1
0
Are you a woman who has had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth?
1
0
Do you have a sister or brother with diabetes?
1
0
Do you have a parent with diabetes?
5
0
Find your height on the chart. Do you weigh as much as or more than the weight listed for your height?
5
0
Are you younger than 65 years of age and get little or no exercise in a typical day?
5
0
Are you between 45 and 64 years of age?
9
0
Are you 65 years of age or older?
Add your score and check the back of this page to see what it means. AT-RISK WEIGHT CHART Height
Weight
4’10”
129
5’7”
172
4’11”
133
5’8”
177
5’0”
138
5’9”
182
5’1”
143
5’10”
188
5’2”
147
5’11”
193
5’3”
152
6’0”
199
5’4”
157
6’1”
204
5’5”
162
6’2”
210
5’6”
167
6’3”
216
6’4”
221
Pounds
Height
Weight
Pounds
Florida Department of Health in Lake County (352) 357-1668 ext. 3316
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IF YOUR SCORE IS 3 TO 8 POINTS This means your risk is probably low for having prediabetes now. Keep your risk low. If you’re overweight, lose weight. Be active most days, and don’t use tobacco. Eat low-fat meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods. If you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, talk to your health care provider about your risk for type 2 diabetes.
IF YOUR SCORE IS 9 OR MORE POINTS This means your risk is high for having prediabetes now. Please make an appointment with your health care provider soon.
HOW CAN I GET TESTED FOR PREDIABETES? Individual or group health insurance: See your health care provider. If you don’t have a provider, ask your insurance company about providers who take your insurance. Deductibles and copays may apply. Medicaid: See your health care provider. If you don’t have a provider, contact a state Medicaid office or contact your local health department. Medicare: See your health care provider. Medicare will pay the cost of testing if the provider has a reason for testing. If you don’t have a provider, contact your local health department. No insurance: Contact your local health department for more information about where you could be tested or call your local health clinic.
CS232302A
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www.cdc.gov/diabetes
STORY: GARY CORSAIR
FORMER BIG LEAGUERS HAVE LITTLE TO SAY ABOUT BASEBALL CAREERS
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BOB STINSON
PETE SMITH
DICK LINES
I know how I’d act if I played professional baseball. I’d drive a car painted in the colors of the team I played for, hang a diamondstudded team logo around my neck and wear my old ball cap everywhere I went. And I’d have business cards that said: “Former Major League Baseball Player.” I’d want everyone to know I had played in “The Show.” Wouldn’t any kid who grew up collecting cardboard heroes, dreaming of one day appearing on his very own baseball card, and listening to Tony Kubek and Joe Garigiola call the Game of the Week. At least I thought that way until I spent time with three residents of The Villages who lived my dream. Bob Stinson, Pete Smith and Dick Lines all made it to the big time, yet each remains humble, unpretentious, and remarkably tightlipped about what had to be the greatest years of their lives. So, let’s go with that. You can look
up their statistics, collect their baseball cards, track down interviews about their careers, but we’ll focus on who Bob, Pete and Dick are today. Because to hear them tell it, the past is past; the here and now is all that matters. Gorrell Robert Stinson III was a firstround draft pick, caught six Hall-of-Fame pitchers, played in an American League championship series, and was a Big Leaguer for 12 years. And he had one of the most colorful nicknames in baseball history — Scrap Iron, a moniker he earned by actually running through an outfield wall in pursuit of a fly ball, and playing with a broken jaw. So you know the guy has stories. He has to. He played for Tommy Lasorda, for crying’ out loud. And yet, Stinson rarely talks about his Major League Baseball career. Twist his arm, and he might — just might — admit he was selected ahead of Tom Seaver in
the 1966 amateur draft. Stinson would rather talk about golf. In fact, he’ll go extra innings on the subject. The only thing he likes better than talking golf, is playing it, which is a big reason he moved to The Villages. For Stinson, baseball is in the clean-up position in a batting order of things he loves. Wife Gayle leads off, golf is second, and working with kids all come before baseball. Any day golfing is a good day. But nothing beats a day when he can combine his loves. “I play a lot of celebrity golf tournaments that give back to the community,” Stinson said. “I go all over the country for charity.” Scrap Iron also participates — for free — in Major League Baseball Alumni camps for children. “I was just in Brooksville, where we had 250-plus kids. One of the kids told me, ‘I wish we had a coach like you.’
“SO YOU KNOW THE GUY [BOB STINSON] HAS STORIES. HE HAS TO. HE PLAYED FOR TOMMY LASORDA, FOR CRYIN’ OUT LOUD.”
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“PETE [SMITH] WAS IN THE BIG LEAGUES JUST LONG ENOUGH TO GAIN SOME GREAT STORIES, BUT YOU’D NEVER KNOW HE WORE A NO. 49 BOSTON RED SOX JERSEY. MR. SMITH WENT TO BOSTON, BUT HE’S AT HOME IN THE VILLAGES…”
I said, ‘Well, who’s your coach?’ The boy said, ‘He’s right over there. He’s my father.’” Of course, Stinson signs a lot of autographs at functions he attends. And he signs for free. But it’s a different story with autograph requests that come in the mail. Stinson recently began charging $10 for his John Hancock when he thinks the request is from someone he believes sells photos or baseball cards they send to players to sign. “My daughter called me and said, ‘Dad, you’re all over ebay. There must be 100 people selling things you’ve autographed.’ And here I was signing for free so they could make money on me. ‘My daughter said, ‘Dad, you gotta start charging.’” So Stinson charges — reluctantly — and donates the money to local kids teams. There is, however, one card the former switch-hitting catcher will not sign — the Bob Stinson card, No. 166 in the 1976
SSPC set. “That’s an outlaw card,” Stinson says. “That company made $6 million in six months and the players didn’t get anything. I won’t sign that card.” Stinson’s refusal to sign the card drew national attention in 2010 when TV personality Keith Olbermann revealed that has signed cards of every player in the set except Stinson. Olbermann was a college student when he wrote the player bios that appear on the back of the 1976 SSPC cards. Stinson obviously has principles. Which is why he usually says “yes” to invitations to appear at baseball camps or participate in celebrity golf outings. “If it’s for charity, I try to do it.” Helping kids is one of Stinson’s favorite things, and he likes nothing better than spending time with his grandchildren. Bob attempts to spread the love evenly among his kids and their kids, but son Kevin have the inside track on his four brothers and one sister. “My son Kevin has three boys and they’re all
into baseball,” Stinson beams. “And Bo recently told Kevin that he wants to just practice baseball all year long.” Sounds like Bo should move to Florida. “That’s what I told him,” Stinson says. It also sounds like Scrap Iron might be sharing some of his Big League baseball stories after all. While Stinson appeared on dozens of cards (in fact, he has three rookie cards), fellow Villager Pete Smith appeared on exactly one, No. 428 in the 1964 Topps set, which he shared with Archie Skeen. And lately, Pete’s been seeing a lot of them. “I get about one autograph request every week. Fans send that card for me to sign. Topps must have made more of them,” he says with a laugh. Pete’s career didn’t last long, but he made sure he’d be remembered. On Sept. 28, 1963, in a home game against the Angels, Smith started a triple play, probably the rarest feat in baseball. Pete was definitely a top prospect. The 3.60 earned run average he posted in six
“DIGGER [LINES] HAD A CAREER WORTH TALKING ABOUT — A 7-7 RECORD AND 2.83 ERA…IMAGINE WHAT DIGGERS WOULD HAVE DONE WITH A TEAM THAT COULD HIT! CAN YOU SAY CY YOUNG AWARD?” BOB STINSON
PETE SMITH
DICK LINES
games near the end of the ’63 season put him in the running for a role as starter in ’64. Unfortunately, a sore arm forced him to hang up his spikes after appearing in just seven games. “Too many curveballs too soon,” Pete says. He punched out (on strikes) some of the game’s greatest hitters, but Pete downplays his accomplishments. “I didn’t have a career, but I had a great time.” On field achievements aside, Smith was thrilled just to be on the roster with the likes of Carl Yastremski, Rico Petrocelli, Gene Conley, Dick Williams, Earl Wilson, and Dick Stuart. And to be managed by the great Johnny Pesky. That was obvious when Smith — wearing an ear-to-ear smiles — joined former teammates and Pesky on Fenway Park’s fabled turf in 2012 during a celebration of the ballpark’s 100th anniversary. “That was spectacular,” Pete said. Pete was in the Big Leagues just long enough to gain some great stories, but
you’d never know he wore a No. 49 Boston Red Sox jersey. Mr. Smith went to Boston, but he’s at home in The Villages — and not because the community has a thriving softball scene. “I live in the here and now,” Pete says. “I play a lot of tennis and pickleball.” And basketball. Pete has medaled in the basketball competition every year he has competed in the Florida State Senior Games. He’s especially adept at free throw shooting, where he routinely makes 22 to 24 of his 25 shots. Richard “Digger” Lines, who lives up on the hill, is also tight-lipped about his Major League Baseball career. In fact, for years he shied away from playing softball here because he enjoys having an identity far removed from a ball… unless we’re talking about golf balls, that is. But Digger eventually gave in, and his teammates are glad he did. The former professional pitcher is now a smooth fielding first baseman and a solid hitter. Lines may not want to talk baseball, so we will.
Digger had a career worth talking about — a 7-7 record and 2.83 earned run average pitching for the lowly Washington Senators, who finished eighth in 1966 and sixth in ’67. And Lines was 5-2 with a 2.28 ERA in ’66 when the sickly Senators batted just .234 as a team. Imagine what Diggers would have done with a team that could hit! Can you say Cy Young Award? If ever a guy had a beef about being in the wrong place at the wrong time, it’s Lines. In fact, he has lots of valid, though unspoken, complaints. Lines spent parts of 11 seasons in the Minor Leagues before making his debut at 27. How he didn’t get a call-up in ’63 (3.43 ERA in 160 innings) or ’64 (3.50 ERA in 131 innings) is a mystery. What was management thinking?!! The ’63 Senators were 56-106 with a team ERA of 4.42! The staff ace was Steve Ridzik, who won 5 and lost 6 and had an ERA of 4.82! And the ’64 team was 62-100! Surely, Lines could have helped
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book club STORY: KATHY PORTER
MORNINGS IN JENIN
THE SAGA OF A PALESTINIAN FAMILY
This powerful and often heartwrenching novel tells the story of a Palestinian family over four generations. The Abulheja family has grown olives and figs for centuries in their small village east of Haifa. As the new state of Israel is formed in 1948, the Abulheja family is forcibly removed from their home and placed in a refugee camp. The story unfolds through the eyes of Amal, a young girl who experiences the terror of war, the death of loved ones, and the loss of a way of life. As we follow Amal through the decades, we rejoice in her successes and weep for her sorrows. The writing is exquisite and envelopes the reader. Sally Melton, facilitator par excellence, led a thought-provoking discussion as we delved into the traditions and lives of this Muslim family, as well as the political aspects of the novel. Book club members struggled a bit with the Arabic names and terms and were grateful for the glossary. The group did not consider the book anti-Semitic. In fact, they were delighted by the boyhood friendship of Amal’s father and a Jewish boy whose family fled Nazi Germany. This friendship proved to be invaluable in later years. The group also focused on the consequences of the kidnapping of Amal’s infant brother Ismael by an Israeli soldier. Named David by his Israeli family, he is then raised as a Jew and only learns of his Palestinian heritage many years later. A number of members voiced concern about how the establishment of an Israeli
THE NEXT MEETING
The Bookworm Book Club will meet June 17 to discuss The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom. Club chair Kathy Porter can be contacted by phone at 352.259.8196 or email at kathymporter@comcast.net.
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This is a story full of heartache and sorrow, but it’s such a vital voice to see another side of an age-old conflict.” — Beth Hicks Santiago
state to be a sanctuary for Holocaust survivors and Jewish refugees from war-torn Europe could, in reality, cause so much pain and suffering. The group was captured by the irony of the book and how victims of Nazi persecution became the perpetrators of violence toward Palestinians. It is important to understand this novel is fiction. But it does present historically accurate details. However, it is written from the Palestinian viewpoint, a voice we almost never hear. This book serves to help us understand why there is still so much conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians. About the Author Susan Abulhawa was born in 1970 to refugees of the Six-Day War of 1967. After her parents’ marriage ended, Abulhawa lived with relatives in the U.S., Jordan, and Kuwait. She was ultimately sent to an orphanage, where she remained until the age of 13. She was then sent to the U.S. and raised as a foster child in North Carolina. Abulhawa graduated from Pfeiffer University with a degree in Biology and earned a master’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Although she continues to write for medical journals and drug companies, she has ventured into journalism, poetry, and fiction. Abulhawa has contributed essays to the New York Daily News, the Chicago Tribune, the Christian Science Monitor, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. She is also the author of several anthologies. Mornings in Jenin is her first novel. Abulhawa founded and is president of Playgrounds for Palestine, which builds playgrounds in refugee camps in Palestine and Lebanon. She resides in Pennsylvania with her daughter.
HARDCOVER BESTSELLERS AS OF MAY 22
1. CITY OF HEAVENLY FIRE by: Cassandra Clare
2. THE FAULT IN OUR STARS by: John Green
3. BONES NEVER LIE by: Kathy Reichs
4. THE FAULT IN OUR STARS by: John Green
5. WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD by: Diana Gabaldon
WHAT CLUB MEMBERS THOUGHT I have put Mornings in Jenin on my short list of “must-read” fiction. First of all, the language is lyrical in its description of both the land and its culture. Secondly, this is one of only a few novels that enlarge one’s world and change one’s perspective.
Faith Andrus Bonita
Mornings in Jenin is a thoughtful novel focused on the post-World War II history of Israel and Palestine. I came away with a deep empathy for the plight of all people whose lives have been forever altered by outside political and geographical interests. They all share a common humanity.
Generations of discontent have been associated with the Palestinians and Israelis. The information we have gathered through the years has been the result of the news media. Was it biased? The truth? The book presents a different point of view. It forces you to look at one group with a new perspective. I am curious as to what others think.
6. UNLUCKY 13
by: James Patterson, Maxine Paetro
7. DIVERGENT SERIES COMPLETE SET by: Veronica Roth
Gail Feind Pennecamp
Mornings in Jenin is a good read. The book is the story of Amal Abulheja and her family spanning 54 years. It starts in 1948 when the family is removed from their home in Ein Hod and forced to live as refugees in Jenin. It is a tragic tale of war and loss, yet is also Mary Jo Johnson a story of family bonding, love, and dedication. In the Ashland West when we hear of the conflict between the Israelis This book really made me realize the strife that existed and the Palestinians, we rarely get the Palestinian side when Israeli was created after World War II. We have to of the story. This book is that story. realize the other side of the story and the fact that the Jacque Schrock Palestinians were removed from their land. This book Rio Ponderosa was very well written and is a fabulous read.
8. SKIN GAME by: Jim Butcher
9. THE ONE & ONLY by: Emily Giffin
10. THE HEIST by: Daniel Silva
Donna Tutton Rio Ponderosa I
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Click a mouse, pull a trigger Two local businessmen recently set their sights on forming an online gun company. So far, they have hit the bull’s-eye.
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n 2012, Google banned guns, ammunition, and accessories from being advertised. Some owners of online gun companies were forced to permanently close their businesses. However, Google’s decision did not leave longtime gun enthusiasts and local businessmen Ken Knorr and Ty Roden up in arms. Instead, they felt it would be an ideal time to explore fresh marketing ideas and take aim at opening their own online gun company. With their impressive business backgrounds, it made perfect sense. Since forming Leesburg-based That! Company in May 2007, Ken and his wife Tina — as well as their team of 30 employees — have provided marketing services for national and international companies such as the National Basketball Association (NBA), Western Union, and the Orlando Solar Bears. Simply put, the business has become renowned for putting together advertising campaigns that are big on innovation, imagination, and creativity. Armed with valuable knowledge and success in the field of marketing, Ken partnered with Ty and bit the bullet by officially launching thatgunshop.net in February 2014. “My goal was to sell guns and accessories on a national level while at the same time creating local jobs,” says Ken, chief executive officer of That! Company and That! Gun Shop. To say the website kicked off with a loud bang would be an understatement. “We had so much traffic in the beginning that our site crashed repeatedly. As a result, we had to revamp the website and re-launch it in March 2014.”
When they gave away a Smith & Wesson AR-15 several months ago, more than 27,000 people registered to win. In June, That! Gun Shop is giving away a Beretta Nano 9 millimeter. “When we give away something, we send each customer a link. The customer can then send that link to family members and friends. Each time the customer gets someone to register, they receive three additional entries. So, in essence, it increases their odds of winning.” Of course, while winning free prizes is always a bonus, the website’s primary objective is to make shopping for guns and gun accessories more convenient. Oftentimes, gun enthusiasts have to make a one- or two-hour drive because the local gun store may not carry a specific model they desire. Now, that inconvenience can be eliminated with the click of a mouse. Heck, gun enthusiasts can even shop in their underwear!
SIGN AND SHOOT!
Many potential customers want to buy weapons as a hobby or for protection but cannot afford a costly or significant purchase. That! Gun Shop is one of the few stores in Central Florida to offer financing plans for firearms. Financing is simple and only takes about 10 minutes for approval. No credit check needed! Purchases can be financed for three, six, nine, or 12 months. The site offers everything, ranging from firearms, high-capacity magazines, cleaning equipment, scopes, grips, and survivalist/pepper products. And because That! Gun Shop
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competes with other online gun companies, customers will find guns and accessories at excellent prices. For instance, hand guns and ammunition can be purchased at 40 percent off MSRP, while some long guns can be purchased at 35 percent off MSRP. Anyone with a concealed weapon permit who orders a handgun will typically be able to pick it up in one business day. There is a three-day waiting period for those without a concealed weapon permit. Guns and accessories can be picked up at the company’s retail store in Mount Dora. Items sold to gun owners in other parts of the country are shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder, which conducts a background check before a gun is released to a buyer. “Someone may order a holster, ammunition, and optics all at once,” Ken says. “There is a flat-rate shipping fee on non-firearm items no matter how many items they order. We strive to provide exceptional customer service and we will do everything from helping customers select the best weapon to assisting with the warranty.” While the majority of the company’s business comes from online sales, the retail operation has been quite successful, as well. The company plans to open additional retail stores in Tampa, Miami, Tallahassee, Atlanta, and Dallas.
For more information, visit www.thatgunshop.net. You can also visit the retail store, which is located at 18130 U.S. Highway 441 in Mount Dora. The phone number is 352.735.GUNS (4867).
Most chiropractors are born in the classroom, but Rhonda Fross was weaned on the art of soothing and healing long before she picked up a textbook.
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RHONDA FROSS discusses treatment options after reviewing a patient’s x-rays. (Photo by Scott Cook Photography)
RHONDA FROSS AND JESSICA PERHEALTH work in concert to ensure that each patient gets the very best care possible. (Photo by Scott Cook Photography)
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“I don’t remember it, but my first adjustment came when I was a baby,” Fross says with a laugh. “My father was a chiropractor and my mother was a nurse. It’s been a way of life for me. My first — and only — job was in a chiropractic clinic. Before I could drive I was working with chiropractors. I never left.” Her early immersion into the craft of alleviating pain served as springboard to Life Chiropractic College, a successful practice in St. Petersburg (for the past 14 years), and now, The Villages. Fross brings a lifetime of knowledge and a wealth of experience to her role of Clinical Director/Chiropractor of the Back Pain Relief Clinic in the Fross & Fross Wealth Management Building at 910 Old Camp Road at Lake Sumter Landing. Fross dedicated herself to debunking myths about chiropractic medicine during a career in which she performed about 13,000 treatments a year for 15 years. She’s living proof that what you don’t know can help you. You probably didn’t realize that Fross’ staff provides: massage therapy; physical therapy; rehabilitation of knees, ankles, and shoulders; decompression therapy on herniated disks; treatment of Plantar Fasciitis with ultrasound; laser therapy, pain relief for patients with osteoporosis, headaches and arthritis; treats dizziness, tingling in hands and numbness in feet? The list goes on and on. The underlying point is: Fross and her staff are not “neck crackers”; they are skilled in multiple techniques and use stateof-the-art equipment to pinpoint and treat chronic ailments, as well as aches and pains. “I show people that they don’t have to be afraid of the chiropractor,” Fross says. “I can help anybody feel better. Everyone can benefit from chiropractic.” And there’s another misconception
THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE is one of the many options at Back Pain Relief Center. (Photo by Scott Cook Photography)
Fross wants to put to bed: chiropractors shouldn’t be a last resort. Back Pain Relief Clinic is the place to start if you’ve experienced a slipand-fall accident or been involved in a car or golf-cart accident. “We use state-of-the-art digital x-ray equipment to quickly determine each person’s specific situation,” Fross remarks. “We then create a plan to address their pain.” Fross has mountains of testimonials from patients who wish they had discovered her sooner. “I’ve had so many people tell me, ‘I came to you because you were my last hope. And now I know you should have been my first hope.’” Fross is determined to win the community’s confidence, but she realizes how difficult it is to change deeprooted behavior. “People are conditioned to treat pain with drugs,” Fross said. “But drugs only treat the symptom. Chiropractic is an alternative to drugs. We treat patients in a holistic way. We even get into nutrition. We address the cause rather than the symptoms.” Research supports that approach. A recent study showed that 80 percent of disease is lifestyle related. Back Pain Relief Clinic employs several techniques to treat various painful maladies. Not every chiropractor can make that claim. For instance, some chiropractors only use activators. Others are limited to making adjustments with their hands. Fross and full-time chiropractor Jessica Perhealth are adept at both techniques. “We are a full-service chiropractic clinic,” says Fross, who prides herself in practicing more than five techniques. “We use multiple techniques. That really sets us apart.” You could say that Back Pain Relief Clinic specializes in specialization. That multi-faceted approach to healing is good news to residents in The Villages.
“Chiropractic is going to benefit everybody,” Perhealth says. “Especially anyone on the golf courses, pickleball courts, or in the swimming pool. Even those with a more sedentary lifestyle, chiropractic helps with acute pain as they age.” Perhealth, who played softball and volleyball while attending the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic, is anxious to help Villagers enhance their athletic pursuits. “I’ve worked with a lot of athletes. I’m drawn to them. I love the community and the active lifestyle. I want to help them keep their active lifestyle,” Perhealth. Fross feels the same way — especially toward anyone who has been shuttled from doctor to doctor.
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“Nothing brings me greater satisfaction than helping someone who walks into my office and says their doctor told them they’re not going to get better, that they have to live with their pain,” Fross says. “They come in when they’ve gone everywhere else — when they have no where else to go. And I help them. I love helping people. That’s all I know.” Fross and her staff invite you to get acquainted with their one-of-akind chiropractic clinic in the Fross & Fross Wealth Management Building with the large bronze bear and bull. Stop by, or call Back Pain Relief Clinic at 352.633.7853 to begin your journey to a life without pain.
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MANDY THEN & NOW
Forever linked to the World War II battle that took place 70 years ago, Normandy continues to honor the Allied soldiers who liberated France. The monuments, museums, and cemeteries are powerful testaments to sacrifices made, and the beauty of the area is a reminder those sacrifices were not in vain. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: TONY AND MARY ANN DESANTIS+NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM
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he eerie stillness of the beach… that’s what struck me first as I walked in the damp sand along Utah Beach on my first morning in Normandy, France. The only sound was the wind, a low murmur I imagined to be whispers of the young men who died on Normandy’s shores on June 6, 1944. D-Day. The name itself elicits emotions even from those born long after the war ended. For most of us, the pictures in our minds of the D-Day landings come from movies like “Saving Private Ryan,” “The
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Longest Day,” and “Band of Brothers.” The day marked the commencement of one of the most epic battles ever fought. More than 156,000 American, British, Canadian, and other Allied forces landed along a 50-mile stretch of heavily fortified coastline, which included five beaches that have since been known by their code names: Utah, Omaha, Sword, Gold, and Juno. It was the beginning of the end of Nazi Germany’s rule in Western Europe. It was also the end of
MEMBERS OF THE 101ST AIRBORNE Infantry Division and the 4th Infantry Division crowd aboard an LCT on the way to Utah Beach, June 6, 1944 (bottom). The same beach today seems much more tranquil (below). (1944 photo courtesy of the National WWII Museum)
A US HELMET SITS ATOP a captured German machine gun, marking the location at Pointe du Hoc (below) of fallen comrades, casualties of June 6. Allied casualties on June 6 were more than 12,000. Bomb craters are still visible on that same beach today, though now filled with wildflowers (right).
[*Source: The Guns at Last Light, Rick Atkinson, 2013]
(1944 photo courtesy of the National WWII Museum)
thousands of young lives. More than 12,000 troops were killed, wounded or reported missing, among them 8,230 U.S. casualties.* “Nothing could prepare you for the sight of Omaha Beach when we landed,” says Sam DiPietro, now 91 and a resident of The Villages. “Things happen in war. We saw bodies with no legs, no arms. Machine gun nests were everywhere.” DiPietro was in the first wave of American soldiers to land on Omaha Beach, where 2,400 U.S. troops were killed in a single day in D-Day’s bloodiest battle. He was a 21-year-old tech sergeant driving a command tank, one of the first ones to hit the beach. To this day, he doesn’t like celebrations with loud fireworks. “I lived the fireworks,” he says. “I was one of the lucky ones. Damn lucky.” Shortly after DiPietro landed, Irving Locker disembarked in the second wave at Utah Beach with the 116th AAA Gun Battalion. He was only 19 and already a staff sergeant with 65 men under his command. “I thank God every single day for getting me through,” says Locker, who also lives in The Villages. “Thinking about the horrors and killings is a
nightmare.” Normandy, one of France’s most beautiful regions, is much different today than it was when DiPietro and Locker landed in 1944. The grim destruction has been replaced by peacefulness, reverence, and an undying appreciation for the liberators who saved Europe. Before visiting Normandy earlier this spring, numerous people — including DiPietro — said the experience would transform my husband and me.
DRIVING THE ROUTE OF LIBERTY Normandy has so much to offer visitors that a one-day trip to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, the site most familiar to Americans, is not enough. We chose to stay in Bayeux, the first town liberated, and follow the well-marked “Route de la Liberté.” The picturesque town is central to all of the D-Day landing beaches and museums and also has its own history that extends to William the Conqueror. Seeing the beaches where American soldiers landed was the impetus for our extended stay in Normandy. My late father-in-law was among the soldiers who landed at Normandy and lived; my husband wanted to walk those shores in his honor. Each beach has unique terrain although the distance between them is not far. Utah Beach is mostly flat while Omaha Beach has steep hills covered with thick brush. Overlooking both Utah and Omaha is Pointe du Hoc
with its sharp cliffs where Germans were entrenched in 1944 with guns pointed toward the shorelines. We began at Utah Beach, which is home to the Musée du Débarquement with its 3,000 square foot exhibition hall. Even the French describe the beach as “lonely.” The two-lane road leading to the beach passes through pastureland and the lovely village of Sainte-Mariedu-Mont, where combat took place as American soldiers pushed inland from Utah Beach. Pointe du Hoc with its majestic views over cliffs scaled by U.S. Army Rangers on D-Day illustrates the difficulty troops faced. From the top of the 100-foot cliffs, Germans had clear shots toward both Utah and Omaha Beaches. Although U.S. Navy ships in the English Channel bombed the location, it was up to 225 Rangers to finish the job by engaging the enemy at the top. Remains of the German “pillboxes” are clearly visible and some
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REAL LIFE D-DAY HEROS SAM DIPIETRO,
747 TANK BATTALION, OMAHA BEACH, FIRST WAVE Saverio “Sam” DiPietro wanted to join the U.S. Navy, but a draft notice from the Army changed his plans... and life. At age 19, he found himself training to be a tank driver; at 21, he was driving a command tank ashore on Omaha Beach. “I studied everything I could because I wanted to know what I was doing. I had to know how to get the tank out of 15 feet of water if it stalled,” he remembers. “All this while the Germans were strafing boats where the tanks were. I still can’t believe we won the battle when I think about it.” DiPietro’s lieutenant was shot by a sniper on the second day; a few days later, his tank was destroyed by enemy fire. With his second tank, nicknamed “Banshee,” he made it all the way to Sainte Lô, a town on the Bayeux Highway that was almost totally destroyed in the Battle of Normandy. He volunteered for a mission to destroy a farmhouse where Germans had guns, but he made the other driver — who was also his best friend — get out so a young scout who knew the location of the farmhouse could ride along. “The kid froze when he saw Germans with a bazooka aimed right at us,” he recalls with tears in his eyes. “Everyone in the tank except for me died in that attack. I still see the picture in my mind. I still see that boy.” DiPietro thought he’d lost his arm, but managed to stay lucid enough to open the hatch so someone in the tank behind him could pull him out. “That tank should have blown up,” he says. “My first question was ‘why didn’t it?’” Medics on Omaha beach gave him blood transfusions and sewed him up as best as they could before shipping him to a military hospital in England. He underwent surgeries and rehabilitation in the United States. After a complete recovery, he went to work for the U.S. Postal Service. A native of Long Island, N.Y., DiPietro eventually moved to St. Petersburg. He and his wife, Helen, moved to The Villages nine years ago where Sam enjoys golfing. “I wasn’t in France very long but I remember everything I did,” says DiPietro, who has returned to France several times since the war. And in honor of the tank that didn’t explode, DiPietro named his golf cart “Banshee.” It’s also purple for his Purple Heart.
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IRVING LOCKER,
116TH AAA GUN BATTALION, UTAH BEACH, SECOND WAVE Irving Locker of The Villages will be present when 70th anniversary ceremonies take place at the Normandy American Cemetery this month. It will be the first time he has been in France since he was a 19-year-old staff sergeant leading his men ashore on Utah Beach. “I did not want to return to France,” he says. “For a long time it held nothing for me but horrible memories.” Friends and his wife, Bernice, convinced him to accept an invitation from “D-Day Revisited,” a private organization in Britain, to lay a wreath in honor of the Americans killed during Operation Tiger, a training exercise that went awry in England even before the D-Day invasion began. He was the only American invited to take part in the ceremony in Slapton Sands, Devon, England. Although his trip began in late May in England, he will spend June 6 in Normandy. This landing will be a lot different than it was when he was only a year out of high school. “We had to jump off the Higgins boats fully loaded with 27 pounds of ammunition and a rifle on our backs. If you fell in the water, you would drown unless a buddy could pull you up,” the Passaic, N.J., native remembers. Locker served in the 116th Anti-aircraft/Anti-tank/Anti-artillery Gun Battalion, the first to land at Utah Beach. His command included four 90mm guns that were transported from Normandy to the Battle of the Bulge in Ardennes in northern France. “Those guns could shoot six miles up at a plane as well as through a German tank,” Locker says. “The shells were three feet tall and weighed 45 pounds. As a result of the noise, 90 percent of my men became deaf in both ears.” After the war, Locker had a distinguished career in graphic arts, which took him around the world but never back to France. He and Bernice, his wife of 65 years, moved to The Villages six years ago and are well known in the ballroom dance club for their elegant style. In 2011, he was awarded the Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honor by the French government for his service to free France. Locker, who is Jewish, says that as bad as the war was seeing the death camp at Gardelegan, Germany, was worse. “I have photos that I took with my own camera,” he says. “I show them so that people don’t forget that the Holocaust was real.” Now 89, Locker’s mission is not complete. He talks to students, churches, and club groups about his experiences and letting them know that freedom is not free. “I want to keep that message alive for as long as I can,” he says. “I also want people to understand what it’s like for people at war.”
have been reinforced so tourists can walk inside. Numerous bomb craters, now filled with wildflowers, are poignant reminders that success here also came at a high price. The initial Ranger landing force was reduced to 90 fighting men at the end of two days.
prelude to entering the cemetery. Symmetrical rows of more than 9,300 headstones in the American Cemetery overlook Omaha Beach. The Battle of Normandy raged until late August 1944, and the markers indicate that many boys survived D-Day only to fall weeks later. Personnel from the cemetery will help visitors find a relative who is buried there. Surprisingly, many of the headstones are for unknown soldiers. The most poignant moment of our trip was watching a young British soldier walk through the cemetery and place his left hand on the unknown soldiers’ marker while he saluted with his right. From the American Cemetery, we followed a path down to Omaha Beach. It was a somber, gray morning much like the one 70 years ago. Again, an eerie calmness enveloped us. As my husband walked, he tried to imagine his father as a young man — a boy really — landing on that beach and lucky enough to survive. I thought about all the mothers and young wives back home whose lives were forever changed by news their men wouldn’t be coming home. And then I noticed buried in the sand a delicate seashell in the shape of a butterfly. The wind simultaneously echoed a message of transformation and eternal life. I knew then the young men who died on the route to liberty could never be forgotten.
TRIP TIP
Nothing fully prepares visitors for their first trip to the Normandy American Cemetery. Security is tight upon entering the Visitors Center, which is also one of the best military history museums in Normandy. We spent at least two hours seeing the interactive exhibits and videos. The individual stories about soldiers are heartwrenching yet inspiring. The narrator in one of the videos said it best, “The fate of the free world — the entire free world — rested on their very young shoulders.” Walking through the “Sacrifice Gallery,” where every fallen soldier’s name is read aloud, is the
If you plan to visit several WWII museums, buy the “Normandy Pass” at the first museum you visit. The pass costs one euro (about $1.39 U.S.) and entitles you to discounts at 40 participating museums and places of interest.
MÈRE ST. ÉGLISE The 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions parachuted in shortly after midnight on June 6 to secure the town of Mère St. Église for the coming invasion. Unfortunately, many paratroopers were shot as they landed because a house fire in the center of town had awakened everyone, including German soldiers. To commemorate the liberation, the picturesque church has a replica of Paratrooper John Steele hanging by his parachute on the church spire — just like he did for hours after being wounded. Steele lived to tell his story and even became an honorary citizen of Mère St. Église decades after the war. Take time to study the church’s stained glass windows, which honor the paratroopers, and then head to the Airborne Museum across from the church.
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GET A LEG UP ON VEIN PROBLEMS
and all of your other surgical needs!
TOTAL VASCULAR CARE NOW IN THE VILLAGES! Spending all day to see your doctor is a thing of the past, now that Surgical Specialists of Ocala and The Vein Center of North Florida have opened an office in The Villages! Located at The Oaks at 138th, Dr. Ravi Chandra and Dr. Steven Tieche can meet all of your surgical and vein treatment needs. They offer:
Ravi Chandra, MD Steve Tieche, MD
S General •
urgical pecialists of Ocala
• Doppler Ultrasound • The Venefit® procedure • Sclerotherapy Vascular • Thoracic • Laparoscopic • Laparoscopic Surgery Surgery • Vascular and Endovascular Surgery • Treatment of Spider Veins • General and Thoracic Surgery • Phlebectomies
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THE VILLAGES: 8550 NE 138th Lane, Bldg. 400 // 352.237.1820 OCALA: 1920 SW 20th Place, Bldg. 100 // 352.237.1212
“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with thirty-one years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers. Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death. “In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.” “When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him. Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.” While prescribing medications for BPH
can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, office-based therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy. One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than thirty minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radiofrequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 1,200 patients with this procedure. “Medtronic is a $13 billiona-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!” And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than twenty
years) you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.” So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out. “Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it,” he says.
JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D. Board Certified Urologist Practicing in Lake County for over 31 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems. For more information, contact
PHYSICIANS FOR ACCOUNTABLE CARE 920 Rolling Acres Road, Suite 201 Lady Lake, FL 32159
352.751.4990 801 Northshore Drive, Eustis, FL 32726
352.357.6786
ProstateEvaluation.com
city series STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”
SOUTH SUMTER BUSHNELL CENTER HILL CROOM-A-COOCHEE LAKE PANASOFFKEE SUMTERVILLE WEBSTER
STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: MATTHEW GAULIN
SUMTER COUNTY VITAL STATS CURRENT POPULATION: 107,056 (2013) SIZE: 547 square miles COUNTY ESTABLISHED: 1853
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city series // SOUTH SUMTER STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”
Driving along the Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway may seem like you are on a road to another time, another place. The country roads reflect Florida’s past way of life when fishing, farming, and knowing your neighbors were the norm.
A
cres of pastureland, expansive cattle ranches, locally owned restaurants, and weatherbeaten fishing cottages flash by while driving the Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway, 62 miles of open roads that perfectly illustrate the character of this county. Starting at Rutland Park on State Road 44 at the Withlacoochee River and winding down to the General James Van Fleet Trail State Park off State Road 50, the byway passes through several unique and historic towns where visitors will come to understand what “Old Florida” means to the locals. “It’s tremendous to live in a county where you have a laid-back quality of life yet be close enough to enjoy more urban areas
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when you want,” says Samantha Merritt, executive director for the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. “Sumter is rich in history with many old families still here.” The county borders Marion County to the north and Lake County to the east and has two very separate identities. The Villages fuels rapid growth in the northern end, especially the Wildwood area. In the southern end, according to Merritt, the focus is to keep and maintain the natural resources and quality of life that long-time residents have enjoyed for generations. Jim Veal Jr. is one of those locals who grew up in the town of Lake Panasoffkee and chose to stay. His family, beginning with his grandfather, has owned the Pana Vista Lodge since the 1940s. His parents, Jim Sr. and Eloise, took over in the 1950s, and now Jim Jr. operates the iconic landmark on County Road 421 and part of the Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway.
THE TOWNS AND COMMUNITIES OF
SUMTER COUNTY SOUTH SUMTER Bushnell Center Hill Croom-A-Coochee Lake Panasoffkee Sumterville Webster
NORTH SUMTER Royal Coleman Wildwood Oxford The Villages
shellcrackers, and bluegill. Two-thirds of the property around it is state-owned and will remain undeveloped, according to Veal. “The focus will always be on fishing and fish habitats,” he says. Travel a little farther south on the scenic byway and you’ll find more than just fishing. You’ll see South Sumter’s other big industry: cattle. South Sumter is home to one of only 11 surviving cattle markets in the nation, according to Merritt. The cattle market is part of the Sumter County Farmers Market, which was established and chartered in 1937 by local farmers. The area also includes the Webster Flea Market, the oldest and largest flea market in Florida that is listed as a Top 10 tourist attraction in the state. The 40-acre market is open every Monday from 7a.m. to 3p.m., and it’s not unusual to see RVs and tour buses lined up for the event.
“We try to run it as an ‘Old Florida’ fish camp,” he says. “We don’t want — nor do our customers want — a condo-type environment.” Veal says there have been changes in the area since his boyhood in the late 50s and 60s. He says with a chuckle that no place survives without some change. Pana Vista Lodge’s presence on the Internet is one example of how social media has created awareness among a new generation of fishermen who are discovering the area. “People come from all over the country and it’s still mostly a lot of word of mouth,” Veal says. “Facebook and the website certainly bring in people from different places, but we have a lot of regulars, too, especially from The Villages, who come just for the day.” Lake Panasoffkee plays a big role in Sumter’s push for more agritourism. “There’s been a heavy investment in Lake Panasoffkee,” explains Merritt. “All of the access ramps have been redesigned and updated with parks and playgrounds.” The 5,500-acre lake, which underwent a $26.9 million restoration that was completed in 2008, is stocked with large-mouth bass,
NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY No mention of Sumter County is complete without mentioning its major role in the Second Seminole War. The eastern portion of what became Sumter County was part of the original Seminole Indian reservation established under the Treaty of Moultrie, but as soon as the U.S. acquired Florida from the Spanish, the government began urging the tribes to relocate to what is now Oklahoma. Some leaders signed the Treaty of Payne’s Landing in 1832 that required the tribe to move within three years. When U.S. troops arrived in 1835 to enforce the treaty, 180 Seminole warriors ambushed two companies of U.S. Army infantry under the command of Major Francis Dade on Dec. 28, 1835, near Bushnell. The Second Seminole War (1835–1842) was the fiercest war waged by the U.S. government against American Indians, leaving
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city series // SOUTH SUMTER STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”
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Bushnell Historic Courthouse Designed by William A. Edwards, the architect for several Florida State University campus buildings, the courthouse was completed in 1914. It continues to be the heart of Bushnell’s downtown area. more than 1,500 soldiers and uncounted American civilians dead.* Today, the Dade Battlefield Park marks the site of the historic ambush, and annual re-enactments attract thousands of history buffs and local spectators to one of the most popular stops along the scenic byway.
General James Van Fleet Trail State Park – This old railroad corridor is a 29-mile trail that is part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. The rural hiking and bicycling trail runs from the Mabel Trailhead in South Sumter to Polk County and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as well as a great place to ride or hike without cars and traffic.
*Source: flheritage.com/facts/history/seminole/wars.cfm
FLORIDA’S 29TH COUNTY The Florida Legislature chartered Sumter County from a portion of Marion County in 1853 and named it for General Thomas Sumter, a Revolutionary War hero. The area had already been settled for several decades by farmers, and the county’s first census in 1860 showed 1,429 residents. Leesburg, originally part of Sumter County, was the location for official county business until Sumterville was established as the new county seat in 1881 when Lake County was formed from portions of both Sumter and Orange counties. More than 100 orange growers made Sumter County home until a severe freeze in 1894–95 destroyed the citrus industry. Most of the growers converted to cattle ranching and the success of the industry doubled the county’s population. The cattle industry continues to be one of Sumter’s largest assets. Although Bushnell was founded in 1884, it was not incorporated until 1912 when it became the new county seat. Being chosen as the county seat did not come without a close fight, however. After the Sumterville courthouse burned in 1909, destroying two decades of county records, political infighting was so bad that a countywide election was held to decide whether Bushnell or Wildwood would be the new county seat. The vote was close: Bushnell 657, Wildwood 648. DRIVING ALONG THE SCENIC BYWAY Designated the Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway by the Florida Scenic Highways Program on May 2, 2013, this corridor through Sumter County encompasses places that offer a variety of activities for local residents and visitors. In fact, the idea for a byway was born in order to enhance visitors’ experiences when they traveled to the Florida National Cemetery near Bushnell. The byway promotes and protects the area’s natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical resources. In addition to fishing and several parks around Lake Panasoffkee, other highlights along the byway include the following:
Florida National Cemetery The Withlacoochee State Forest is the backdrop for this serene cemetery that honors America’s veterans. Established by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the cemetery has had more than 97,000 interments since it opened in 1988. Special ceremonies are held on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Richloam Wildlife Management Area – A birdwatcher’s paradise, this 58,000-acre tract is on the Great Florida Birding Trail and is part of the Withlacoochee State Forest in southeast Sumter County. Eight miles of shared equestrian, bicycling, and hiking trails attract outdoor enthusiasts, as do the three loop trails ranging up to 14 miles for hikers. Hunting and fishing are also permitted. Florida Bass Conservation Center Visitors can get a close-up look at modern research practices that protect and conserve the largemouth bass. This state-of-the-art freshwater fish hatchery and research facility has an aquarium and visitors center. For hours and information about the self-guided tours, call 352.732.1225.
Catfish Johnny’s Restaurant – It’s hard to miss Catfish Johnny’s because of all the cars in the parking lot on County Road 470 in Lake Panasoffkee. A local landmark for more than 23 years, the restaurant has a wide variety of seafood, including gator nuggets, crab legs, frog legs, oysters, shrimp, and fish. From November through April, the Tuesday night jam sessions with Catfish Johnny and the Hushpuppy Band pack the restaurant’s “party barn” with country music fans Harbor Lights – If you are looking for a fresh seafood buffet with a quiet, waterfront view, head toward the shores of Lake Panasoffkee for Harbor Lights Restaurant & Lounge. Open Thursday through Sunday evenings, the restaurant has a backdoor landscape that looks like an artist’s canvas.
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We are pleased to announce our new associates...
Doctors Moffett, Moffett and Wood are thrilled to welcome Kaitlin Lee, MD and Lauren Britt, DO to our practice. Their arrival will continue to allow us to provide immediate, quality care to women of all ages. Dr. Lee is a graduate of The University of Notre Dame and is finishing her residency at Dartmouth Medical Center. She is planning to focus on well woman care and health maintenance as well as conservative management of gynecologic issues and minimally invasive procedures. She also has a special interest in contraceptive planning and options.
Kaitlin Lee, M.D.
Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid Florida Call now to book your appointment.
LLC
Kaitlin Lee, M.D. and Lauren Britt, D.O.
Dr. Britt is presently completing her residency in Ohio at Mercy Saint Vincent Medical Center where she serves as Chief Resident. She has special interest in minimally invasive surgery and gynecologic cancer surveillance and treatment. Originally from Alabama, she has a love of the South. She looks forward to returning and offering her expertise to our community. We are proud to welcome these two wonderful women in July 2014. Appointments are available at our offices in both Leesburg and The Villages. We participate in the Villages United Insurance, BCBS and various other plans. We hope you will experience the comprehensive, compassionate care offered by the physicians of Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid Florida, LLC.
Lauren Britt, D.O.
LEESBURG 601 E Dixie Ave., Medical Plaza #401 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.787.1535
THE VILLAGES 1400 US Hwy. 441 N, Bldg. #950 The Villages, FL 32159 352.259.5649
www.leesburgobgyn.com Michelle Wood, MD, FACOG
Alfred Moffett, Jr., MD, FACOG, FACS
Douglas Moffett, MD, FACOG
volved
Retirement goals aren’t always easy to meet. So is it crazy to think your financial advisor should be? Not to Edward Jones. Our over 11,000 financial advisors are in neighborhoods like yours, not downtown skyscrapers. So a face-to-face talk about your retirement is always close at hand. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com.
Actually believes retirement goals that seem out of reach require a financial advisor who’s not. Jeananne C Niemann, AAMS® EUSTIS Eric Blamick 352.357.2204
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LEESBURG Jeananne Niemann 352.787.7782
MOUNT DORA Rebecca Sargent 352.357.2282
Financial Advisor MOUNT DORA .
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114 East Dixie 352.383.4539 Avenue Leesburg, FL 34748 352-787-7782
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Products and services offered through Edward D. Jones & Co, L.P. © 2013, Member SIPC
This Father’s Day, share the wide open fairways and gentle rolling hills of El Campéon or Las Colinas with the men who have made a difference in your life.
MEDICAL & SURGICAL TREATMENT OF: • Bunions and Hammertoes • Corns • Morton’s Neuromas • Ingrown Nails and Warts • Heel and Arch Pain • Thick, Painful Toenails • Foot Injuries • Diabetic & Geriatric Foot Care • Sports Medicine • Orthotics • Diabetic Shoes • Numbness/Tingling of Feet
MEDICARE AND MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED
SCAN HERE with your smart phone To learn more about Tri-County Podiatry
1585 Santa Barbara Blvd., Suite B, The Villages tricountypodiatry.net // 352.259.1919
FOOTC A R E F OR PE OPL E OF A L L AG E S W I T H AC T I V E LIFEST Y LES.
“While receiving treatment with Dr. Wu, he discovered I had poor circulation in both legs. After undergoing a bypass, I was wheelchair-bound and immobile for more than six months. Gangrene set in my toes and I had to have several amputated on my feet, but now I am back to playing golf and walking again thanks to Dr. Wu. He is fantastic; his innovation and patience gave me my life back. I probably wouldn’t be alive if not for Dr. Wu.” —Harvey Beringhause
Minimally invasive spine care
Locations THE VILLAGES, TAMPA, INVERNESS, SPRING HILL // 844-222-SPINE GulfcoastSpineInstitute.com
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Camogliano
INTERNALMEDICINE With you every step of the way
RONNIE JANE
Boekema, ARNP
JANET ROMULO
Baker King, ARNP
Camogliano, M.D.
BOARD CERTIFIED INTERNAL MEDICINE
From office to hospital to skilled nursing facility and rehab, we follow you through every stage of your care.
OUR SERVICES
Lab Draws • PT-INR, Coumadin Checks • Echocardiogram Ultrasounds • Men & Women Annual Physicals • Bone Density Testing Diabetes Screening/Glucose Monitoring • Blood Pressure/Cholesterol Screening/Monitoring • School/Employment Physicals • EKG Testing
HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS
proud provider of
• The Villages Regional Hospital • LRMC Hospital • Promise Hospital • Lady Lake Speciality Care • The Club • The Villages Rehab and Nursing Facility • Arbor Villages Nursing Facility
DrCamogliano.com // 352.259.3435 // Find us on M–F 8:30a.m.–5:30p.m. Spanish Plains Medical Plaza, 1400 US HWY 441 N. Bldg. 900 Suite 902, The Villages, FL 32159
Too Much Time in the Sun When You Were Younger? No One Needs to Know Now!
As Floridians, one thing is for certain—we love the sun. Even if you’re not a fan of going to the beach or lazy days spent outside there is no escaping the sun’s powerful rays. As the sun it can also be detrimental to our skin. At ImageLift, wrinkles, brown spots, thinning skin, and discoloration are just some of the chief complaints we hear about sun damage every day. To help stop or even reverse sun damage to the skin, be sure to try some of the following tips: Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, know your skin type and exfoliate when there is dry skin, stay hydrated, and wear the proper clothing when doing any activities outside. As we get older though, that damage from the sun starts to show and can affect how we feel about our appearance, ImageLift patient and business owner, suffered from visible sun damage. She wanted to put her best face forward for her business. Leah decided to visit Dr. Rich Castellano for an expert opinion on getting a facelift. “I had always thought that when I got older I would get it (a facelift), said Leah. “After being in the sun all of my life and seeing what it (a facelift) did for my friend, I wanted to go ahead with it.” With the latest technologies and techniques available, we can help hide the effects of sun damage, and help you
look and feel young again! Imagelift offers a wide range of procedures to help
in the ImageLift techniques. The combined experience of two Double
of life, including the ImageLift FaceLift. The ImageLift Facelift consistently delivers the “WOW!” results while still maintaining a natural appearance. Our most popular facelift is split into three categories: small, medium, and large. Your ImageLift physician will help you determine which ImageLift Facelift is right for you! Results vary for each type of facelift, and are typical. You deserve to look and feel your best, so what are you waiting for? At ImageLift, we are a National Center of Excellence for our long-term
Dr. Rich Castellano and Dr. Randall Weyrich, is sought across the country and internationally. They will absolutely provide you with a customized treatment plan that works for you and your individual needs, right here in The Villages, no travel required. Our book is an easy read and an excellent resource. Here is a comment from ImageLift patient Leah, “I read the book and loved it! It really helped prepare me.”
Leah Powell before treatment
See Leah’s testimonial at:
youtube.com/imagelift
Results after the Medium ImageLift
Results are typical and do vary.
time r a limited Available fo on ti ca es lo at our V illag to you. ge ar at no ch
DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEONS, RANDALL WEYRICH, M.D. AND RICH CASTELLANO, M.D.
Meet The Docs At An Upcoming Event 5
Thursday, June 5th @ 1:00 PM Seminar at the Waterfront Inn
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Tuesday, June 10th @ 11:00 AM
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Thursday, June 26th @ 1:00 PM Seminar at the Waterfront Inn
May/June Special The ImageLift with ComboLyte 1440 Technology Book in the month of May/June and receive: One free area of laser treatment and one free syringe of Filler (Radiesse), a $2,000 additional value! Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to ad for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.
Let us help you get that younger look back! Call now to learn what treatment is best for you at 877-789-3223 or visit our website at Imagelift.com.
retina care improving
through research
In the ever-expanding field of retina care, vitreoretinal specialist and surgeon Dr. Shalesh Kaushal is excited that the Retina Specialty Institute continues to play a key role in furthering medical advances through its participation in clinical trials and giving patients access to the most advanced care. A clinician scientist with a strong academic background, Dr. Kaushal takes great pride in being involved in cutting-edge clinical trials to treat many conditions of retinal disease. He earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md., and his Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His work as head of the retina division at the University of Florida in Gainesville has helped cultivate his passion for solving problems for both his patients and the scientific community. As result, he has earned a reputation as being a selfless visionary and compassionate practitioner. As an avid researcher, Dr. Kaushal has participated in numerous clinical trials involving revolutionary breakthroughs in retina care such as gene therapy, stem cell treatment, and new drugs. And he is bringing these breakthroughs to Retina Specialty Institute’s Villages office, which is conveniently located in the Sharon Morse building Suite 532. High on the list of innovations is the use of stem cells. “There are many types of stem cells, but there are two basic kinds that we look at. There are cells that can rejuvenate tissue and then there are types that can actually regenerate and replace cells that are lost through normal wear and tear, injury, or disease,” says Dr. Kaushal. “We want to bring those types of trials to The Villages.” The Retina Specialty Institute is also highly involved in researching the use of nutraceuticals to treat a variety of visionthreatening diseases, especially within his field of specialty: inherited retinal and macular diseases like retinitis pigmentosa
(RP) and Stargardt disease as well as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). “Instead of patients receiving injections to treat dry macular degeneration, we are hoping to find oral medications to mediate the disease,” he says. “We’re bringing exciting research to Central Florida.” As a FDA-approved clinical trial study center, Retina Specialty Institute is known widely among major pharmaceutical companies, peers, and patients for delivering continual peak performance. The goal is to use the research to provide patients with better results while being less intrusive. Aside from his contributions and active involvement in clinical research, Dr. Kaushal carries a real passion for charity — as proven by his many diligent hours caring for and treating underserved populations in local communities as well as abroad. Dr. Kaushal also enjoys the sacred relationship between doctor and patient and makes it a point to communicate in a way that is both clear and understandable. He considers it a great honor to provide quality patient care that not only restores sight and improves vision but also increases quality of life. The surgeons of Retina Specialty Institute are lending shape to the unknown, forging the next generation of knowledge and technology that help preserve the gift of sight from retina diseases like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
Experience visionary retina care. Preserving. Treating. Advancing Now accepting patients at The Villages. Call today for an appointment at 850.529.7077
SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE
On the
scene THE TO-DO LIST OUT+ABOUT SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT HI, SOCIETY!
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COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM
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On the scene // the to-do list
JUNE To have an event considered for the Calendar, send a short text description along with a color photo (if available) 60 days in advance of event to: calendar@akersmediagroup.com or Lake & Sumter Style Calendar, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749
EVENTS JULY 3–4
MOUNT DORA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION Enjoy an old-fashioned celebration with food and live music beginning at 5p.m. on July 3 at Mount Dora’s Gilbert Park. Fireworks begin at dusk. The Independence Day parade takes place on July 4 at 10a.m. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle & City of Mount Dora. CONTACT: 352.267.2879
JULY 4
COLLINS COMMUNITY BBQ For more than 25 years, Bruce Collins of Collins Tire Center has hosted this free, family focused event at Cadwell Park in Umatilla. The day includes a picnic, children’s casting contests, water activities, and Umatilla’s largest corn hole tournament. From noon to 5p.m. CONTACT: 352.669.3847
JULY 4
LEESBURG’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION This 4th of July celebration will be an evening of live entertainment, food, kid’s rides, games, and Lake County’s largest, most spectacular choreographed fireworks display along the shores of Venetian Cove. From 6 to 10p.m. CONTACT: 352.365.0053
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FESTIVALS/FAIRS
JULY 4
TAVARES INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION Parade starts on Main and Ruby streets at 5p.m. Activities will be at Wooton Park until 9:30p.m. Enjoy entertainment, food vendors, kids activities, and, of course, fireworks. CONTACT: 352.742.6319
JUNE 20–22
JUNE 11
TOURISM EXPO
JULY 4
SOUTH LAKE FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVAL The event will feature classic cars, food vendors, activities, live music, and fireworks. From 9a.m. to 10p.m. at Lake David Park in Groveland. CONTACT: 352.429.2141
The Lake County Economic Development & Tourism Department is hosting its first Tourism Expo from 2 to 7p.m. at Lake Sumter State College in Leesburg. Open to the public, the event will feature Lake County’s numerous businesses and agencies that support local tourism initiatives. Robert Chandler, director of Lake County’s Economic Development & Tourism Department, and Brandy Hastings of VISIT FLORIDA will be the keynote speakers beginning at 2p.m.
MUSIC+THEATRE
CONTACT: 352.742.39184
THROUGH JUNE 8
DUCK HUNTER SHOOTS ANGEL Two bumbling Alabama hunters who think they have shot down an angel are chased by a cynical tabloid journalist and his reluctant photographer. The chase to find the angel builds to a hilarious crescendo in the swamp. The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse, 1100 N. Unser Street, Mount Dora. CONTACT: 352.383.3133 or www.icehousetheatre.com
JUNE 6–7
BLEND A CAPPELLA BLEND is the a cappella quartet that brings back all of those fun-loving memories from the 50s and 60s. Tickets: $15. June 6 at 8p.m.; June 7 at 2p.m. Bay Street Players at the
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Historic State Theatre,109 N. Bay Street, Eustis. CONTACT: 352.357.7777
JUNE 14
A ROMANTIC EVENING OF MUSIC Clark Barrios invites you to join him for the music of one of the most romantic singers of our time, Michael Bublé. At 5:30 and 8:30p.m. at the Savannah Center in The Villages. Tickets: $27. CONTACT: thevillagesentertainment. com/events/
hours in three separate vacation cabins on the grounds of a large hospital in the U.S. Within the three cabins are three patients who have agreed to be part of a psychological scheme where they live on the hospital grounds and have interviews with a psychiatrist. Tickets: $18, adults; $15, students. Moonlight Players Warehouse Theatre, 732 B W. Montrose Street, Clermont. CONTACT: 352.319.1116
JUNE 22
JUNE 20–JULY 13
THE SHADOW BOX The play takes place over 24
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BJ THOMAS CONCERT BJ Thomas, a five-time Grammy and two-time Dove Award winner who has sold more than 70 million records,
comes to Mount Dora for one show only. Tickets: $35 in advance; $45 for VIP. At 4p.m. CONTACT: mtdora.org
JUNE 27–JULY 20
LEGALLY BLONDE Sorority sister Elle Woods enrolls in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, only to discover that her knowledge of the law can help others, especially exercise queen Brooke Wyndham who is accused of murder. Bay Street Players at the Historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay Street, Eustis. CONTACT: 352.357.7777
HARVEST FESTIVAL More than 80 local artists and crafters wil display their work at Lakeridge Winery in Clermont. Enjoy live music throughout the weekend, along with complimentary winery tours and tastings. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks, and food wil be available for purchase. Cost: $2 donation to benefit Cornerstone Hospice. From 10a.m. to 5p.m. all three days. CONTACT: lakeridgewinery.com
ART/HISTORY EXHIBITS THROUGH JUNE 14
GRAPHIC EXCELLENCE Three area artists show different visions of excellence in draftsmanship, strength of imagery, and detail. Jennifer Harper is an illustrator/ printmaker specializing in relief linocuts and woodblocks. Jennifer Kirton creates detailed drawings and paintings in ink and watercolor. Tena Cottle is a versatile artist whose highly expressive woodcuts are gems of creativity. Lake Eustis Museum of Art, 1 W. Orange Avenue, Eustis. CONTACT: 352.383.0880
THROUGH JUNE 20
“MAGNIFIED” SCULPTURE Joshua Almond works primarily in wood to create abstract sculptural landscapes. This installation takes you into a world of gigantic microorganisms,
EP
JUNE 7
LEESBURG CORNFEST
EDITOR’S PICK
Presented by the Downtown Leesburg Business Association, this event will feature famous Zellwood sweet corn, live entertainment, festival food, and contests for children and adults. Enjoy rides and games in the Kids’ Area. From 10a.m. to 7p.m. in downtown Leesburg. CONTACT: ITSYOURDOWNTOWN.COM
which invoke a feeling of entering an uninhabited landscape. The use of positive and negative spaces present a portrait of constraint and abandon or signs of life in a desolate landscape. Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave. CONTACT: 352.383.0880
JUNE 16–20
ARTISTIC INDEPENDENCE School artists will enjoy a weeklong study with a professional artist instructor from 9a.m. to noon each day. Students with an interest in art will discover their unique artistic independence, the mysteries of combining art mediums, and the wonder and pride in serious artistic challenges. $75 per student. Leesburg Center for the Arts. CONTACT:352.365.0232
JUNE 23–27
CREATIVE JOURNEY ACROSS LEMONADE LAKE School creative arts camp for students who have just completed 6th to 8th grades is a weeklong visual arts camp from 9a.m. to 4p.m. each day. Students will have sketchbook exercises, plein air painting trips, and serious clay building projects. $150 per student. Leesburg Center for the Arts. CONTACT:352.365.0232
JUNE 27—JULY 28
DECIPHER BY KIM WATTERS “Decipher” is a sculptural exploration of perception, light, color, and space. Kimberly Watters communicates with her audience beyond written and oral conventions through the materiality of glass and light. Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave. CONTACT: 352.383.0880
JUNE 14
TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN & JERK FESTIVAL Immerse yourself in the culture of the islands. Event will feature a jerk cook-off competition, live music, Afro-Caribbean dancers, face painting, games, food and product vendors, arts and crafts, free health information, and much more. From 11a.m. to 10p.m. at Waterfront Park in Clermont. Admission: $5, adults; $2, children 10 and under. Free parking. Proceeds support the scholarship program for the Caribbean-American Association of Lake County. CONTACT: 352.978.0813
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On the scene // the to-do list
INCONCERT LOCAL LIVE MUSIC
Photo by William Casey
DATE
ARTIST
VENUE
6/04 6/05 6/06 6/06 6/06 6/06 6/07 6/07 6/07 6/07 6/11 6/12 6/13 6/13 6/13 6/13 6/13 6/14 6/14 6/14 6/15 6/18 6/19 6/20 6/20 6/20 6/20 6/21 6/21 6/21 6/22 6/22 6/22 6/25 6/26 6/27 6/27 6/27 6/27 6/28 6/28 6/28 6/28 6/29 7/02 7/03 7/04 7/04 7/05 7/12
Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Bobby France (acoustic) 3 For the Road (oldies) Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Trae Pierce (funk) Mad Hadder Band (rock) Charlie Simmons (folk) Justin Heet (southern rock) Kim Hightower (ballads) Evil Monkey (classic rock) Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Kelly Jarrard (acoustic) Shuffle-Tones (blues) Stava Mala (southern rock) Come Back Alice (rock) Conflict of Interest (rock) 3 For the Road (oldies) Conflict of Interest (rock) Rima Ridge Dell, Helen Hoyt Da Boys Kelly Jarrard (acoustic) Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Dangerous Dave 3 For the Road (rock, oldies) Swamp Juice (classic rock) Justin Heet (southern rock) Joyride (classic rock) Swamp Juice (classic rock) Smokin’ Torpedoes (blues) McIntyre (Celtic/Irish) Beautiful Bobby Blackmon B.J. Thomas (popular) Kelly Jarrard (acoustic) Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Nate Leslie (rock) Mad Hadder Band (rock) Live Wire (classic rock) Larry Mangum (folk) Keeper (classic rock) Lonie Carter Jeff Bates (acoustic) Da Boys Chicken Train (classic rock) Dave Merrill Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Dave Merrill Bucky Covington (American Idol) Jeff Whitfield (blues/rock) Justin Heet Rick Derringer (rock)
Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares City Fire, Lake Sumter, The Villages Ruby Street Grille, Tavares revival, Clermont Frank’s Place, Leesburg Olivia’s Coffeehouse, Eustis Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Yalaha Bakery, Yalaha Frank’s Place, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares McCall’s Tavern, The Villages Hurricane Dockside, Tavares revival, Clermont Shamrock, Leesburg City Fire, Brownwood, The Villages Shamrock, Leesburg Olivia’s Coffeehouse, Eustis Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares City Fire, Lake Sumter, The Villages Shamrock, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Frank’s Place, Leesburg Shamrock, Leesburg Pisces Rising, Mount Dora Olivia’s Coffeehouse, Eustis Lakeridge Winery, Clermont Mount Dora Community Building Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Irene’s Lounge, Leesburg Shamrock, Leesburg Olivia’s Coffeehouse, Eustis Frank’s Place, Leesburg Gator Harley-Davidson, Leesburg Beef O’Brady’s, Umatilla Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Frank’s Place, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grill, Tavares Ruby Street Grill, Tavares Lake 4th of July, Clermont Ruby Street Grill, Tavares Ruby Street Grill, Tavares Mount Dora Community Building
Bands subject to change … Email Gary@akersmediagroup.com to submit an event for In Concert. Submissions must be received by the 9th of the month prior to month of the event (example: June 9 for July issue).
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ENjoy Scrumptious Gourmet Food Trucks, Live Entertainment & a FREE Blockbuster Movie on a huge 24' screen under the stars
SATURDAY June 14th 5:30pm Tommy Treadway Performs!
Leesburg Events!
On the scene // out+about A travel companion for points near and far
D-DAY IN NEW ORLEANS
If a trip to Normandy is not in this year’s budget, head west to New Orleans where the National World War II Museum will engage your mind, senses, and heart as you hear stories from the Greatest Generation. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOGRAPHY: TONY DESANTIS AND COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM
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ll aboard,” the conductor bellowed at the door of a vintage-looking Pullman train car inside the National World War II Museum. I quickly shed my “Rosie the Riveter” garb and grabbed my camera from the woman who was taking my picture. Missing the train in 1941 could have resulted in a court-martial. Today, it means passing up an interactive
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journey through history as a narrator describes scenes new recruits experienced when they left home to fight in foreign lands. And what they must have felt. “I was just 18 years old and I’d never been further than 20 miles from New Orleans when I found myself on a train going all the way to San Francisco. My mother, girlfriend, and sisters saw me off. I was more excited
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than scared at that point,” said WWII veteran Forrest Villarubia, who serves as a museum volunteer. Open since June 6, 2000, the National WWII Museum in New Orleans covers an entire block in the city’s Central Business District. Founded by the late historian and author Stephen Ambrose, the museum was originally known as the National D-Day Museum. In 2003, Congress officially designated it as
America’s National WWII Museum. Today, three state-of-the-art pavilions contain more than 100,000 artifacts that tell the story of “the war that changed the world.” Hundreds of photos and oral history recordings of servicemen and servicewomen who were part of America’s “Greatest Generation” help visitors understand why and how the war was fought, and what such sacrifices meant for future generations.
WHY NEW ORLEANS?
Dr. Ambrose spent decades researching and writing about D-Day, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and the war. After collecting more than 2,000 oral histories from veterans, the University of New Orleans professor realized the U.S. had no museum on the homefront to honor them. He also knew
New Orleans had been home to Higgins Industries, a small boat company owned by entrepreneur Andrew Jackson Higgins, who originally built boats designed to operate in Louisiana’s shallow bayous. Higgins modified his design to produce a unique collection of amphibious boats that could deliver men and equipment safely to shore. Without his boats, which became known as Higgins boats, the strategy of the war would have been different, Eisenhower said many years later.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Tour operators may tell you that you only need a couple of hours to see the National WWII Museum. However, the complex is so large and the exhibits so compelling you may want more time, especially if you plan to see the
films and enjoy the excellent on-site restaurants. A second-day pass is available for $6 when you buy regular admission, which is $22 for adults; $19 for seniors; and $13 for students. World War II veterans get in free. Buy your tickets online (nationalww2museum. org/visit) before your trip so you can be assured of getting a ticket for the highly recommended “Beyond All Boundaries” 4D film, produced and narrated by actor Tom Hanks. Screenings in the Solomon Victory Theater are hourly but advance tickets are recommended, especially if you want to see an early showing. The extra $5 for the 45-minute film is worth the price, and it’s a great overview before you begin your tour. If you arrive at the museum before it opens at 9a.m., head over to the museum’s 1940s-era Soda Shop on the
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On the scene // out+about A travel companion for points near and far
The National WWII Museum is located near Lee Circle where the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line circles before heading on its way to Canal Street near the French Quarter. Since the museum was the primary focus of my trip, I found it convenient to stay nearby at the small, but charming Hotel Modern around the corner. Access to New Orleans’ major tourist attractions was just a streetcar ride away, and the hotel bill for two nights was less than one night in a French Quarter hotel. (thehotelmodern.com)
Trip
TIP
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NOTEWORTHY
555 WWII veterans die each day, according to the U.S. Veterans Administration. 16 million Americans served in the armed forces during WWII. Barely 1 million are alive today.
Magazine Street side where you can build your own biscuit for breakfast. The towering creation certainly will last you most of the day, or until you can grab authentic seafood gumbo or a 99-cent meat pie in Chef John Besh’s American Sector restaurant next door to the Solomon Victory Theater. The American Sector is quite affordable compared to restaurants in the French Quarter. While the European and Pacific military campaigns are covered in the Louisiana Pavilion, the U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center honors everyday citizens who did their part at home. The exhibits showcase how the nation mobilized for war. The Freedom Pavilion also houses the unique and thought-provoking “What Would You Do” interactive experience that presents difficult and ethical decisions faced by real people during the war. If time allows, sign up for one of the “Behind the Scenes” tours. Last fall, I was able to watch volunteers restore a PT-305 boat in the Kushner Restoration Pavilion. The boat, originally built by Higgins Industries, will eventually be operational on nearby Lake Pontchartrain. And if the National WWII Museum takes several hours to tour now, it will take even longer in the future. A $320 million expansion project is scheduled to open in 2017. “The Road to Victory: A Vision for Future Generations” will continue the story of the American experience during the war with additional exhibits, libraries, and archives.
About the writer
Mary Ann DeSantis has written features for Style publications since 2006. She was recognized with a first place Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Award for Travel Writing in 2012.
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On the scene // social spotlight Where you want to be
COMING HOME Former residents of Royal will return to the small community for a weekend of fun and fellowship STORY: JAMES COMBS
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here’s no place like home. That’s certainly true for Cliff Hughes. He was raised in the small Sumter County town of Royal, which was founded in 1865 by former slaves and is one of Florida’s oldest African-American communities. He has fond childhood memories and recalls the strong bond between family, neighbors, and friends. “Growing up in Royal was a great experience for me. The folks taught me how to stand up and be a man and become good at different types of work. In those days, if somebody saw you doing something wrong, your family would know about it and dealt with you accordingly. It was a community
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raising a community.” After graduating from Wildwood High School in 1981, Cliff spent three years in the U.S. Army serving in Germany and Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He moved back to Royal after landing a job with the Florida Department of Corrections. In 2003, he moved to Georgia, only to return to Royal four years later. He has lived there ever since. Like Cliff, many who were raised in Royal moved to other parts of the country. But most will always cherish and embrace the small community they call home. That will be evident during the Royal Homecoming, June 13–15. New friends will be made and old stories shared as
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3,500 to 5,000 visitors descend upon the community for three days of laughter, smiles, hugs, and memories. Some attendees will be family members of former slaves who founded Royal and are returning to celebrate history, freedom, and faith. Others are curious visitors who heard about Royal and desire to learn more. “Many people left Royal to attend college, join the military, or accept a job elsewhere,” Cliff says. “Those things were great accomplishments because they bettered themselves in life. However, it is great to see them come home during this weekend. Many will have family reunions during this weekend. It’s such an exciting time for our community.”
A ‘ROYAL’ CELEBRATION Royal Homecoming has it all, from family and friends sitting in lawn chairs reminiscing about old times to the pleasant smell of barbecue wafting through the community. The event kicks off Friday night with a fish fry. On Saturday at 10a.m., children, parents, great-grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles will line the roads to enjoy the ever-popular parade. A volunteer fire truck will lead the threemile procession, which will include decorative cars and trucks, as well as representatives from local businesses and organizations. In addition, individuals will ride on horseback and portray the Buffalo Soldiers, the famed African-American
cavalry from the late 1800s. Following the parade, family and friends will gather in the park for a friendly game of kickball. A Sunday morning church service at New Life Center Ministries is one of the highlights of the event. The service is a celebration filled with gospel music, praise dancing, fellowship, and faith. Later that day, a car show and live entertainment will be held at the corner of County Road 235 and County Road 222. “It’s a fun weekend,” Cliff says. “Some people enjoy camaraderie and fellowship, some people dance, and some people simply check out the scenery.”
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
of the community. As chairman of the Community of Royal Corporation, he organizes Mother’s Day dinners, Christmas gatherings, and barbecues. He also helps maintain a community garden and provides food to Royal’s elder population. “It is important to show them appreciation for everything they’ve done for Royal,” he says. “Things have changed in Royal over the years, but we still remain a family-oriented community.” And Royal will always remain a special place Cliff is proud to call home. For more information about the event, visit communityofroyal.org.
Certainly, Cliff is a wonderful steward
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On the scene // Hi, society!
EVERYONE LOVES A PARADE One of the highlights of GeorgeFest is the Saturday morning parade. Spectators lined the sidewalks of Bay Street to watch colorful floats, baton-twirling cheerleaders, marching high school bands, and representatives from local businesses and civic organizations. The parade also featured the dog jog, where pet owners and their furry friends jog and/or walk together on the one-mile parade route. LARRY ELLIOTT JESUS GONZALES, JASMIN DELAROSA, AIDA ARIAS, AND MAURICIO MARQUEZ
PHOTOS: RON VANDEVANDER
WENDY AND ANNIKA PATEL
BOB AND GWEN RIVENBARK ANNA ELLIS AND CLARK CHAUDOIN
KYMN AND TED MORET
PATRICIA, SAUNDRA, AND RICHARD GILES
ENNIS HARVEY, ANDREW DUNHAM, AND DIANE SANDERS
“The parade is a great community event. It’s good to be from a small town with a big heart.” —Georgene Rye
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co ule Op m a m vi en un sit ity to ! to da y!
W r n Sch e’r ew ed e ou
The right choice means everything HarborChase Assisted Living and Memory Care is now open! Discover our state-of-the-art community and the warm hearted associates that are ready to provide exceptional care for you or a loved one that requires assistance with day-to-day needs or is challenged with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Schedule a visit to see our beautiful new community for yourself.
888-998-2395
Keep in touch with us on
Photos of actual HarborChase residents
Assisted Living Facility #AL12467
13517 NE 86th Court, Lady Lake, Florida, 32159 (across from The Villages Regional Hospital) 888-998-2395 | www.HarborChase.com/Villages.htm
On the scene // Hi, society!
HIGH ON THE HOG Pig on the Pond helps raise scholarship money for students in South Lake County. In addition to pig racing and a barbecue competition, festival goers enjoyed carnival rides, fair games, fireworks, and rubber-ducky races. Former Clermont resident and country music singer Jordan Anderson provided live entertainment.
BETTY COSTANZA, DIANNE HUGHES, GERTA KING, AND CATHRINE WILLHITE
EMMA, KELLY, AND JADYN JENKINS
KENNY JOHNSON, CHERI BEDFORD, COURTNEY DEMASTUS, AND FRED BEDFORD
PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS
KLARISSA GILBERT, TERRY NELSON, AND HEATHER GAMBINI
WENDY EAMES, STACEY HAYS, SANDY SMITH, AND SHERI KRESS
KIRSTEN OLAFSEN AND TABITHA EASTEP ROXANNE, ADAM, AND JACKSON GILLIS
“Ice cold beer!” —Sarabeth Hanson
237 West 4th Ave. Suite 2 * Mount Dora, FL 32757 * 352-383-3600 We are located in the Arbors & Eyebrows complex at the corner of Alexander and 4th Ave. in Historic Downtown Mount Dora. Open 7 days a week
Gourmet Kitchen Products Unique and Hard To Find Specialty Kitchen Products
Make Us Your 2014 Baking and Cooking Headquarters *Cooks Tools & Gadgets Galore *Demo Cooking Class are available *Hard to Find Baking & Cooking Ingredients *Specialty Gourmet Salts PLUS Salt & Pepper Mills *Everyday Cooking & Baking Supplies for Everyone
ARY 2014 ROT
Camps for Ages 4 to 18
*Gift cards available *Also shop on-line at www.KaDeeKay.com
For registration and more information, call the Leesburg Center for the Arts at 352.365.0232 or visit LeesburgCenter4Arts.com
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On the scene // Hi, society!
TAMARA SNYDER, KERI PHILLIPS, DR. GEORGE HAGERTY, DONNA MARTIN, AND CHELSEA EUBANK
TIME TO CELEBRATE
Beacon College held its Celebratory Dinner at Mission Inn Resort and Club in recognition of the inauguration of Dr. George J. Hagerty as the college’s third president and the college’s 25th anniversary. The event recognized individuals who have made a positive impact on the college, as well as introduced Dr. Hagerty as the new president. Former White House Press Secretary Marlin Fitzwater and Senator Alan Hays were among the evening’s guests.
PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS
CAROL AND JIM FALLON
PAULA AND PETER TREMATERRA
SUSAN WARD, CARRIE SANTAW, AND DR. SHELLY CHANDLER DR. VINCENT AND MRS. ZICCOLELLA
SEN. ALAN HAYS AND MARLIN FITZWATER
RICHARD, NOI, AND SALLY WILLIAMS
“The facility and staff of Beacon College are excited to welcome Dr. George Hagerty and embrace his vision for the colleges future.” —Kerri Phillips
eats SALUTÉ IN THE KITCHEN FORK ON THE ROAD DINING GUIDE
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EATS // saluté A worldly look at wine
IN THE PINK
Real men do indeed drink pink wine… especially if it’s dry rosé. This wine is being rediscovered because its versatility complements active lifestyles and a variety of foods. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS
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in rosés — will be drier than muscadine grapes, which are used in many Florida blush wines. Gamay grapes are also used. The best way to determine what kind of rosé you like is to try several with a meal. Chances are everyone will have a different favorite. Here are a few suggestions for your next rosé tasting. All can be purchased locally for $20 or less.
BERNARD MAGREZ PASSION LÉGÈRE 2011, COTES DE PROVENCE
Rosés from the France’s Provence region are the pinnacle for many rosé fans because the dry, acidic taste is the perfect balance for almost any cuisine. Rosés outsell white wines in France, most likely because they pair especially well with the Mediterranean flavors of olive oil, seafood, and fresh vegetables. The Passion Légère has a beautiful aroma and a long finish. Made with 40 percent grenache, 20 percent syrah, and 40 percent cinsault, the wine paired well with a light goat cheese and apples. “It will give you great emotions,” read the back label, and I have to agree. About $13.
MAYSARA ROSÉENA 2011
MONTAZI VINEYARD, OREGON Roséena is an ancient Persian term for a beautiful, elegant woman who naturally smells of roses. In this tasting, cranberries seemed to dominate the aroma and taste more than flowers but it was still delicious. Made exclusively from pinot noir grapes, this certified biodynamic wine was much different from the French rosé. Most noticeable was the darker color, but it also seemed to have a fuller mouthful of flavor. The Maysara Roséena paired
well with grilled salmon, better than any of the others tasted. About $17.
BUONCRISTIANI ROSATO 2012 NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
The Italian name should have been the clue that this rosato needed to be treated like an Italian wine and allowed to breathe. The aroma was off-putting at first, but the flavors developed by the time the main course was served. A handcrafted wine, only 285 cases were made using syrah and malbec grapes. Described as a serious pink wine by its producers, the rosato almost overwhelmed the lighter fish and cheeses. It would work better with barbecue dishes, especially pork. About $20.
SUNBLUSH PREMIUM ROSÉ
LAKERIDGE WINERY AND VINEYARD, CLERMONT For some folks, only sweet wines will do. Although sweet rosés can be harder to match with food, the Lakeridge Sunblush paired well with spicy salsa and chips. It would also work well with spicy or blackened seafood. It’s a very light wine compared to some of the others in this tasting, but it is still crisp and refreshing. Made from a blend of Muscadine grapes, the fruit flavors certainly dominate. About $8. ABOUT THE WRITER Living in Italy was the catalyst for Mary Ann DeSantis to understand more about wine, and she now enjoys sharing what she’s learned. Since 2010, Saluté has covered topics for oenophiles of all levels — from novice wine drinkers to experienced connoisseurs. The column received a 2013 Florida Magazine Association Bronze Award for Best Department and a 2012 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Award for Commentary.
Photo illustration: Anthony Casto
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f you are looking for a refreshing summer wine, think pink… as in rosé, rosato, or rosado. Dry rosés, in particular, pair perfectly with light cheeses, hors d’oeuvres, and almost every summer menu. It’s also pretty good when it stands alone. Certified sommelier Tyler Worth, who writes the blog What’s Worth Drinking, compares rosé wines to a lifeguard. “There should always be one poolside. Nothing really competes with the fresh, mineral flavors of a chilled dry rosé on a hot summer day,” he says. When shopping for rosé, it’s often difficult to know whether it will be dry or sweet. Rieslings usually have the International Riesling Foundation taste profile scale on the back label indicating the dryness or sweetness, but rosés do not. “Knowing the region where rosé is produced can help,” says Heather Hitson, wine consultant for ABC Fine Wine & Spirits in Lady Lake and a big fan of rosé wine. “French rosé is usually a drier style, except for the ones from the Languedoc region, which tend to be sweeter. Oregon’s Pinot Noir rosés are usually very dry. California’s are not as dry as Oregon’s.” Rosato from Italy and rosado from Spain also have unique tasting profiles. The Italian version is typically darker in color and very dry, almost austere, but the intense flavors can pair well with a variety of meat dishes. Committed red wine drinkers may want to try Spanish rosado, which can be tannic and almost as dark as maraschino cherry juice. Recommended pairings include grilled burgers. Also, knowing the grape varietals is handy when it comes to selecting a rosé. Syrah and pinot noir grapes — often used
TIPS FOR SERVING ROSÉ 1. Serve chilled. 2. When tasting several rosés, drink the sweetest one last. 3. Choose a young vintage. Rosés do not have the tannic structure or complexity to be cellared. 4. Pair dry rosé with tangy goat cheese, creamy brie, or fresh melons for a refreshing summer snack.
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EATS // in the kitchen Out of the frying pan and onto the page.
LOCAL AP‘PEEL’
PEEL INTO PLANTAINS
When you’re craving a salty snack, plantain chips can hit the spot. And while there are plenty of readymade, brand name ones at your neighborhood supermarket, one local woman is making these wholesome treats on a smaller, but way more delicious, scale. STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+MATTHEW GAULIN
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f you’re from Peru or Ecuador, you probably know them as chifles, or perhaps platanutres if you hail from Puerto Rico. And if you represent Cuba, they are mariquitas de plátano, or mariquitas for short. At one time, plantain chips (as they’re called in the States) were only familiar to those from or with a connection to Latin, Caribbean, and African cultures. However, now they have reached worldwide commercial success, mainly because big name potato chip companies took this popular Afro-Caribbean and Latino snack and began mass-producing it for a cool profit. Nevertheless, if you’re a true lover of green plantain, nothing compares to the irresistible taste of a freshly fried and salted plantain chip. And more and more people locally and throughout Central Florida are discovering this gastronomic treat at the hands of Leesburg resident Ivis Osorio, co-owner of Tia Chips.
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‘‘
What I make are handmade, gourmet chips. When I think of the future, I’m excited. I really believe in our product.”
Ivis and her husband, Guido, started Tia Chips in 2008, but the initial idea came to Ivis in 2007 when her tía (aunt) came to visit from Miami and brought a bag of plantain chips. “I was eating the chips and as I put one in my mouth, I thought, ‘Something is gonna happen with this chip,’” she says. “Then when the economy crashed in 2008, my husband lost his job in the furniture business, and I was working in real estate. We decided we needed to do something to make more money, so we went into catering.” Being of Cuban descent, the Osorios specialize in Cuban cuisine. However, the moment that gave Ivis the push she needed to pursue making plantain chips for cash happened when a client requested Mexican food. “He asked if I could make tortilla chips and salsa for an event. I told him I could make the Cuban equivalent, which is plantain chips and mojo sauce,” she
says. “Needless to say, it was a hit and I remember telling my husband, ‘I think we got something here.’” So with 12 bags of plantain chips, the couple took their product to the Leesburg Saturday Morning Market and completely sold out. To them it was a sure sign they, indeed, had something special. But to make Tia Chips a reality, the Osorios first had to find a commissary kitchen they could use to make their chips. “I Googled ‘commissary kitchen’ and found the closest one was in Groveland. That’s how I meet Jackie Noble, who owns the kitchen,” she says. “I called her and she told me to come in. She’s taught me everything from insurances to placing nutrition labels on my bags. She has been a big help.” With a kitchen secured, Ivis and Guido started small using green plantains from the grocery store and a mandoline to carve the chips thin. However, as Tia Chips grew, the need for more produce
and efficient tools also grew. The Osorios graduated to using a foodservice distributor to buy plantains from Ecuador, which Ivis says are larger and easier to peel than plantains from other regions, and a kidney-shaped commercial slicer that helps their chips retain their signature leanness. For a while, Ivis says she tried to balance her real estate career with selling the plantain chips, but after some colleagues tasted them and raved about how good they were, she decided it was time to give Tia Chips her full attention. “Now this is all we do. Never in my life did I think I would be frying plantain chips for a living,” she says and smiles. “It’s a lot of work, but this is where I want to be.” The Osorios work four days a week making 150 pounds of plantain chips each day. From start to finish, it takes eight hours to peel, slice, fry, drain, and bag 180 plantains. To ensure their freshness, they make them to order. “We only use three ingredients: plantains, soybean oil, and fine sea salt. Ours aren’t packed full of preservatives like the ones you buy in the stores because we make them right before we go to the market,” says Ivis. Tia Chips are wildly popular at several Central Florida farmers markets, including The Villages Farmers Market at Brownwood, Ocala Farm Market, and Orlando’s Farmers Market at Lake Eola. They are also available at various businesses such as Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe and Morning Glori Antique Mall in Leesburg, Jackie’s Restaurant and Catering in Groveland, The Meat House in Winter Park, and World of Beer in Lake Mary and Orlando. “Vendors usually gauge if it’s going to be a good day by how much I sell,” Ivis says. “They know if it’s a good day for me, it’s going to be a good day for them.” On most farmers’ market days, Tia Chips sells out. The tagline appropriately says they are ‘more-ish.’ “My sister described the chips as moreish when she was eating them one day. We asked her what that meant and she said it means the chips make you want to eat more. Little did she know moreish was actually a word that means a food that has such a pleasant taste it makes you want more.” But for people to want more, first you have to make an appetizing chip, and the key to making a good plantain chip is using a firm green plantain. That’s when they’re most starchy and savory. However, as plantains ripen, they turn yellow and become sweeter. “Some people like the chips a little sweeter so we’ll set those bags aside for regular customers we know will buy them at the different farmers markets,” says Ivis. Now when it comes to eating plantain chips, devouring them straight out the bag is pretty common. However, Ivis says people don’t realize how versatile they are as an ingredient. “They’re great as a breading. All you have to do is brush a bit of mayo and mustard on a piece of fish or a pork chop, put the crumbled plantain chips on top, and bake it. It’s delicious.”
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EATS // in the kitchen Out of the frying pan and onto the page.
People also use crushed plantain chips in salads in place of croutons. Or you can eat them the Miami way: smothered in rich, garlicky mojo sauce. “That’s our chips and salsa,” says Ivis. Guido makes his own special mojo, which they sell under the “Tia” umbrella. “It’s my mother’s recipe, but with a few adjustments,” he explains. The only way to truly describe the taste of mojo is pungent — but in a scrumptious way. Traditionally, it’s made using sour orange juice, which serves as the tart base. However, since sour oranges are hard to find, most people mix equal parts of orange juice and lemon juice to create mojo’s notable tang. Couple that with a hefty amount of garlic and that’s what gives mojo its strong bite. It works great as a dipping sauce, marinade, or baste. “My kids love wings, so I’ll take the mojo and blend it in a blender with chipotle peppers to make a marinade. Then I’ll marinate or baste the wings with the sauce,” Ivis says. “You can also toss pasta in the mojo or sprinkle it over bread with a bit of Parmesan cheese to make garlic bread. The possibilities are endless.” Presently, Ivis and Guido make the mojo available on a limited basis. Nevertheless, Guido dreams of bottling his patented sauce for greater distribution. Ivis, on the other hand, explains when it comes to her Tia brand, she wants to continue to thrive, but still retain her small business identity. “I take it day by day. I’d love to grow and take over Jackie’s kitchen, but I don’t want to be Frito-Lay. What I make are handmade, gourmet chips,” she says. “When I think of the future, I’m excited. I really believe in our product. What we do is a lot of work but fun.”
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PLANTAIN-CRUSTED FISH INGREDIENTS: 2 eggs 1 cup flour 1 pound fresh, white, flaky fish fillets, such as cod, tilapia, grouper, or halibut 1 bag of plantain chips Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste 1 tablespoon coconut oil DIRECTIONS: 1. Whisk eggs in a shallow bowl. 2. Crush plantain chips in a food processor or with a mortar and pestle. Spread plantains out on a plate. 3. Season fish with salt and pepper. 4. In a large pan, preheat coconut oil on medium heat. 5. Dip fish fillets in flour. Then dip fillets in egg and coat with crushed plantains. 6. Place the fish into the heated pan. Allow to cook until golden brown on one side for three to four minutes (depending on thickness). 7. Carefully flip fish and cook until golden brown on the other side for approximately two to four minutes. Check fillets for doneness by breaking it apart in the middle. Fish should flake easily. 8. When done, remove fillets from pan and serve with vegetables or a salad. NOTE: Plantain chips can also be used to make plantain-crusted pork chops, chicken cutlets, and other types of fish such as mahi mahi, Chilean sea bass, salmon, and red snapper.
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EATS // fork on the road Tasty insights and observations
THE BLUE PLATE DELI Fill up both tanks at this increasingly popular eatery on the outskirts of Fruitland Park. STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ AND MATTHEW GAULIN
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t’s easy to drive past The Blue Plate Deli without giving it a second look. After all, this popular eatery is located inside the Shell gas station on the corner of County Road 466A and Farner Place in The Villages. These days, with the ease of sliding your debit card to pay for a tankful, few people feel the need to actually go inside a gas station — unless they’re craving a Big Gulp and a bag of Fritos. But for those who have ventured beyond the pump at Shell on 466A, the discovery of one of Lake County’s best kept culinary secrets has been a life-changing experience because no one makes a burger like Don Hickey. Chef Don, as the locals call him, has been cooking up classic American eats at The Blue Plate Deli for a year now, but he’s been a chef for more than 35 years. He was enjoying the retired life in The Villages when his son happened upon the small, vacant café inside the busy Shell station. “I came on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and noticed the traffic was backed up. I mean I couldn’t believe the number of golf carts that were in the parking lot. I thought to myself if I could get at least 10 percent of them to walk through the door I would be set,” he said. Interestingly enough, the first customers to patronize The Blue Plate Deli weren’t the Villagers Don had anticipated. Instead, he and his companion Lori Avery attracted contractors and other laborers who stopped in to fill up on their favorite fountain drink on the way to work. “We were a total secret for about six months,” said Lori. A little bit of press and word-of-mouth changed all that. “We now have groups galore come in here to eat. After a morning of golf, men and women will come in here together for a nice lunch,” Don said. “And at 6a.m. every morning, the Romac guys come and half of them will eat breakfast and the other half will order burgers. I even had a lady come in to celebrate her 80th birthday.” On the day I visited The Blue Plate Deli, a small group gathered in the corner enjoying an early lunch. I struck up a conversation with Barry Brown, who said he had been coming to the restaurant since it opened. “A month after it opened, my wife and I came and loved it. You know how they say you come in for the food but come back for the service. That’s how we feel about this place. We generally
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eat here about twice a week,” said Barry. “I’ve told all my friends about it and so far, no one’s been disappointed.” Unsure of what to try, I asked the group for a recommendation. “I’m having the burger for the first time and it’s really, really good,” Charles Sullivan chimed in. “I just learned about this place this week and I’ve been coming every day.” Don seconded the suggestion and brought me the All-American cheeseburger, one of 13 burgers he offers on the menu. Don serves nothing but fresh ground chuck, which he gets from a local butcher shop every other day, and fresh produce he buys in Fruitland Park. Next, he handcrafts 8-ounce patties to order and cooks them to perfection on a flattop grill. “That’s the way they’re meant to be made,” he says passionately. “Then I add a little love to give them that extra special something.” From the first bite, it’s clear this burger is indeed special. The patty has a delicious crunchiness around the edges with just the right amount of juiciness in the center. And the lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles were extremely fresh and crisp. The sides were equally enjoyable. Hand-cut fries were seasoned generously and fried to a nice crispiness without being oily, and the coleslaw was dressed with a delightfully creamy vinaigrette. However, the real zinger was Don’s baked beans, which are tangier and less sweet than your traditional baked beans. Satiated but far from full, I contemplated what to try next. Don hit me with a whopper — his Indiana pork tenderloin sandwich. It’s fast becoming a favorite, especially among Villagers from the Midwest. “I was born and raised in Indiana and this is a Midwest staple,” said Don. The sandwich is intimidating. The tenderloin alone was larger than my hand. “I buy a whole pork loin, cut it into medallions, and pound them with a mallet by hand until they’re thin. Then I bread them and deep-fry them before serving them on a Kaiser roll. In the end, they come out about the size of a hub cap,” said Don with a laugh. Because of its size, I had to stick to eating just a small portion. The pork was juicy, flavorful, and had a great crunch. Next, I tried Don’s fried green tomatoes. They’re debuting this month on the menu. The tomatoes were firm, the breading wasn’t heavy or soggy, and the horseradish remoulade was a wonderful
compliment to a solid Southern dish. I finished with a bowl of homemade soup, which that day was vegetable. The broth was delectable and the vegetables tender. I wanted more but I was stuffed. I broke down and asked Lori for a few take-home boxes. At The Blue Plate Deli, patrons learn quickly that the food might be the star, but Chef Don and Lori keep people coming back. Don is humorous and colorful but extremely passionate about his craft. Lori is attentive and efficient, and just as passionate about keeping customers satisfied. “Chef Don brings personality to the place,” said Mike Chees, another regular who never passes up a visit after a round of golf. “He’s someone people can love. He makes you feel like family.” But of course, it also doesn’t hurt to have the best burgers in the world, according to Dave “Diamond” Curry. “I’ve eaten a burger every day of my life for 35 years and I’ve had them all over the world. Chef Don is the only guy I’ve given a 10 to,” he said. “They’re not always a 10, but they’re always at least a 9.8. He’s got the best.” And the breakfast menu is just as popular as the lunchtime fare.
ADDRESS: 260 Colony Blvd. The Villages, FL 32162 PHONE: 352.446.1948 HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday–Friday, 6a.m.–3p.m.; Saturday, 7a.m.–2p.m.
POPULAR DISHES: The All-American Cheeseburger (American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle) Over the Edge Cheeseburger (Grilled crispy cheddar skirts with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle) Indiana Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Three-egg omelet with hash browns and toast
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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste
BAMBOO BISTRO
700 NORTH HWY. 441 (IN FRONT OF TARGET), LADY LAKE // 352.750.9998 The Villages Bamboo Bistro welcomes you to experience a delightful dining experience with us. Enjoy an impressive selection of Asian dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, as well as a full sushi bar. Some of the more popular items include Peking duck, pepper seared filet mignon, the bamboo basil seafood delight, and the Chilean sea bass served in black bean sauce. Of course, there are plenty of other enticing items made with our freshest ingredients, such as the shrimp in lobster sauce, Mongolian beef, and the ever-popular General Tso’s chicken. Noodle soups and noodle dishes are also available; a variety of Asian beers and the extensive selection of wine will complement that perfect meal. Dim Sum Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday Noon–9 p.m. HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY–THURSDAY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SUNDAY
11A.M.–9:30P.M. 11A.M.–10P.M. NOON–9P.M.
BONIFAY COUNTRY CLUB
1033 PINELLAS PLACE, THE VILLAGES 352.205.7455 // WWW.BONIFAYCOUNTRYCLUB.COM Bonifay Country Club is a casual, fine dining restaurant that infuses Florida-inspired cuisine with the relaxing and open atmosphere of a beach getaway. Our eclectic menu, with a focus on fresh, clean, and local products, is filled with delicious fare and handcrafted cocktails that will be sure to delight the palate, while staying reasonably priced. The interior design is fun and vibrant, with pastel colors, bright canopies, and light fixtures in the restaurant and outside bar will delight your senses and appetite. Whether coming off the beautiful, Ken Ezell-designed golf course or stopping by before a night on the town square, Bonifay Country Club is the right choice. HOURS OF OPERATION: SUNDAY – THURSDAY: 7:30A.M.–9P.M. FRIDAY – SATURDAY: 7:30A.M.–10P.M. BREAKFAST: EVERY DAY 7:30A.M.–11A.M. HAPPY HOUR: EVERY DAY 11A.M.–5P.M.
COUSIN VINNIE’S FAMILY SPORTS RESTAURANT OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK: 11A.M.–9P.M. // FOOD, SPIRITS, MUSIC, SPORTS 10700 U.S. HWY. 441, LEESBURG // 352.253.2442 // WWW.CVINNIES.COM
Cousin Vinnie’s is located on U.S. Highway 441 across from Lake Square Mall and Home Depot. Owner “Cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a sports bar with a family restaurant. Famous for outstanding food and even better service, Vinnie’s was recently named Medium Business of the Year for 2013. They also have been voted Best Wings in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. Additional menu items include killer half-pound burgers, melt-in-your-mouth chicken strips, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheesesteaks, healthy wheat wraps, homemade salads, 16 awesome appetizers, and their signature deep fried ice cream and Snickers bars. Every Monday is “Texas Hold’em” from 6–10p.m. Tuesday night is “Family Night” from 4–8p.m. where kids 12 and under eat free. Wednesday night is “Trivia Night” with the fun starting at 6:30p.m. and prizes being given to the top three teams. Thursday night is “Karaoke Night” where everyone is a star! There is no better place on the weekends to enjoy the game. Cousin Vinnie’s also offers many cool electronic games for the children, free Wi-Fi, great music, and an enthusiastic staff ready to exceed your expectations. “I absolutely look forward to serving you and your family very soon!” says Cousin Vinnie.
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Now Save
$X
located in Southern Valid on arrangements & dipped fruit boxes. Code: XXXX0000 Trace Plaza! Expires: XX/XX/XX
At First National,
we don’t let advanced technology replace personal service.
Pick fruit, it’s fresher for Father’s Day All-Star Dad Celebration Fruit bouquet featuring star shaped pineapple & apples dipped in chocolate with toppings. Call, visit or order at edible.com ™
3509 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162 in the Southern Trace Plaza 352.391.1334 Delivery not available in all areas. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS® & Design and all other marks noted are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2013 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.
Branch Management Ann Stose, Miriam Rodriguez, Laura Saunders, and Carol Rector Sure, we have all the conveniences modern technology provides – like secure online banking, mobile apps and text updates that keep you in touch with your money 24/7. But we also offer something most big chain banks don’t: one-on-one assistance when you want or need it – because sometimes it’s more satisfying to interact with a friendly, knowledgeable person than a computer. When you want a bank that does more, come to one that cares more. First National Bank.
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Trust and Investment Services are not FDIC Insured, not deposits of the bank, not guaranteed by the bank, not insured by any government agency, and may lose value.
EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste
THE GOBLIN MARKET RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 331-B DONNELLY STREET (REAR ALLEY), MOUNT DORA 352.735.0059 // WWW.GOBLINMARKETRESTAURANT.COM
Nestled on a back alley in downtown Mount Dora, the Goblin Market Restaurant has been charming locals and tourists alike since 1996. The restaurant, housed in a renovated warehouse, features three intimate, book-lined dining rooms and a full-service lounge furnished in soothing, muted tones with tasteful modern art. The private, tree-shaded courtyard and garden patio are open year-round for al fresco dining. Low lighting and “new age” music add the finishing touches to the restaurant’s casual elegance. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski embrace a simple philosophy of offering the highest-quality products, served in a unique and romantic atmosphere by a personable and attentive staff. The Goblin Market’s wine list and menu represent a refreshing mix of ideas from its culinary team. The diversified origins and background of each member ensure exciting menu offerings and nightly selections. HOURS OF OPERATION: LUNCH TUESDAY–SATURDAY 11A.M.–3:00P.M. DINNER TUESDAY–THURSDAY 5–9P.M. FRIDAY–SATURDAY 5–10P.M. SUNDAY 11A.M.–3:30P.M.
JOIN US FOR OUR NEW “LIGHTER FARE” DINNER MENU, GOURMET SOUPS, SALADS, AND SANDWICHES. TUESDAY– THURSDAY FROM 3–9P.M. (REGULAR DINNER MENU ALSO AVAILABLE).
PALM TREE GRILLE
351 NORTH DONNELLY STREET, MOUNT DORA 352.735.1936 // WWW.PALMTREEGRILLE.COM The décor is sophisticated yet casual allowing for the perfect meeting, family gathering, or private event. Our “Wall of Wine” makes for a stunning display of more than 600 bottles of wine. Culinary offerings include classic Italian as well as steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, salads, tasty sandwiches, sumptuous desserts, and more. Guests can relax in the lounge where we offer a full bar with unique wines, craft beers, and a variety of spirits. The restaurant is available for special events such as weddings, corporate functions, family gatherings, and other celebrations. Every month, the Palm Tree Grille operates a “Wine Connoisseur Dinner.” These exciting dinners offer four-course meals with each course being paired to a particular wine. Guests may also purchase wines to take home with you, just as you would in a wine shop. LOCATED IN MOUNT DORA, THE PALM TREE GRILLE HAS BEEN FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1995. HOURS OF OPERATION: SUNDAY MONDAY–SATURDAY
NOON–8P.M. 11A.M.–9P.M.
RAMSHACKLE CAFÉ
1317 NORTH 14TH STREET, LEESBURG // 352.365.6565 Established in 1989, Ramshackle Café has been a landmark for great food. Just for the FUN of it! Come on in and experience Ramshackle Café! It’s a great place for the whole family. Fajitas, steaks, sandwiches, salads, ribs, delicious burgers, and of course, killer wings. We feature a Happy Hour daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with most drinks 2 for 1! So, for a great time and great food, bring the kids and come on in to Ramshackle Café! Check out our menu at www.RamshackleCafe.net HOURS OF OPERATION: SUNDAY MONDAY–THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
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11A.M.–10P.M. 11A.M.–11P.M. 11A.M.–MIDNIGHT 11A.M.–11P.M.
The Lake-Sumter State College Foundation, Inc. would like to thank the sponsors, businesses, and friends who made its 29th Annual Gala Auction “Sunset at South Beach” a huge success! The event was held on April 26th at the Savannah Center in The Villages. The LSSC Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year netted $60,700 which will assist in continuing the Foundation’s mission to help provide excellence in Education, service to the community, and financial assistance to qualified students.
Presenting Sponsor
Platinum Sponsors
Centerpiece Sponsor
Fontaine Bleau Table Sponsor
Silver Sponsors A Plus Printing Charles Perry Partners, Inc. Ford Press Mary Hatcher for Circuit Judge United Way, Investing in Education
Media Sponsors Apple Seed Marketing Lake Sumter Television Lake & Sumter STYLE Magazine
Mark your calendar for a very special 30th Annual Gala Auction on April 18, 2015.
EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste
SUBWAY
WWW.SUBWAY.COM Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food. LADY LAKE // 208 W. Guava St. // 352.750.4929 EUSTIS // 469 Plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 MOUNT DORA // 18870 U.S. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 LEESBURG // 2013 Citrus Blvd. // 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. Hwy. 441, Suite 4 // 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27, Suite 4 // 352.314.8847 THE VILLAGES // 1580 Bella Cruz Drive // 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane // 352.750.9991 1070 Lake Sumter Landing Drive // 352.205.8535 349 Colony Blvd. // 352.391.1657 WILDWOOD // 480 W. Gulf to Alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800 HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY–SATURDAY SUNDAY
10A.M.–10P.M. 10A.M.–9P.M.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR DINING SECTION?
CALL US AT 352.787.4112
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LAKE EAR NOSE THROAT & FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
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By providing quality, comprehensive care that is tailored to the unique needs and desires of each patient, our accomplished board-certified physicians, physician assistants, and doctors of audiology can effectively diagnose and treat individuals who come to our offices looking for answers and solutions.
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Are there any new treatments for nasal polyps? Nasal polyps occur as a result of either allergy or chronic sinus infection. Surgery is designed to clean out the polyps. A new development is the placement of a drug delivering stent into the sinuses which provides topical anti-inflammatory medication to the sinuses. In the near future we will be able to place those stents in the office, allowing the polyps to shrink down without surgery.
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Should I have Botox or fillers? It depends. If the wrinkles are secondary to facial expression and animation, Botox is the answer. If the lines are present when the face is relaxed, fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm will do the trick. Sometimes you may need both. Every treatment should be tailored to the needs of the individual. Having realistic expectations of what can be achieved is important. Sometimes laser or surgery is the optimal treatment. Come in for a Face 2 Face consultation and we can decide together. Dr. Dino Madonna
Learn more about sinus conditions and the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure at our dedicated website www.LakeSinusRelief.com
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inding the right event rentals to throw the perfect event can be stressful. From table linens to decorations, the possibilities can seem endless. Luckily, Grand Rental Station Party Plus in Mount Dora can provide everything you need for your next special occasion. This family owned and operated business focused heavily on renting construction tools and equipment. Only a slight emphasis was placed on
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party rentals. Mary Johnson joined the business with her husband, Gary, in 1996. She took the party rental portion of the business under her wing and helped build Grand Rental Station into one of the county’s largest party rental stores. “I really gravitated toward the party side of our business because I really enjoyed it,” she says. “I love working with brides to help create their dream wedding. I also enjoy going to the trade shows every year to learn new trends when it comes to tents, tables, linens, dishes, and more.” Grand Rental Station Party Plus goes beyond conventional event planning. Their focus is specialty outdoor events, particularly weddings. “Just insert the bride and groom and we will do the rest,” says Mary. With a team of dedicated professionals with more than 50 years of experience, Grand Rental Station can help create the event of
anyone’s dreams. They provide fun and innovative ways that exceed expectations and fit any budget. And with a distinctive approach to designing events and an everexpanding inventory of rental products, Grand Rental Station is your best source to make an event the celebration of a lifetime. Their spacious showroom allows customers to start planning their events down to the smallest detail. If Grand Rental Station doesn’t have it, Mary says they keep an extensive list of vendors that they have worked with personally to recommend for services such as catering and photography. “We are all about helping you realize your vision,” says Mary. “We have a large selection of tent rentals, lighting, staging, dance floors, tables, chairs,
“WE ARE ALL ABOUT HELPING YOU REALIZE YOUR VISION.”
While phasing out the retail division of the business, Grand Rental Station will open a satellite location within A Simply Unforgettable’s Eustis store so clients can have better access to any supplies or services they may need to rent for an event. “We have two locations and are refocusing our efforts to better serve our clients,” says Mary. “I am very excited about this new partnership and fresh direction for our company. I believe many of our longtime customers, and even our new customers, will be pleased with our rededication to what makes our business great.”
In an effort to expand their party rental business further, Grand Rental Station will be teaming up with A Simply Unforgettable Party Shop.
4800 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.357.9242 GrandRent.com
linens, and much more. We provide everything under one roof, which is something our customers value and appreciate.”
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TINA’S NEW STYLE Tina Morrison takes over hosting duties on Style TV version 2.0
“Style TV” is undergoing changes that will make our must-see video magazine bigger and bolder than ever. First and foremost, we are going weekly! If you enjoyed our award-winning monthly Lake & Sumter Style show, you will love seeing us kick it up a notch by transforming the monthly show into weekly must-watch program. “We will still focus on the people, places, and events that make Lake and Sumter a great place to live, work, and play,” says Kendra Akers, president of Akers Media. “But it will be more timely and more relevant to our audience. We feel people respond better to quick bursts of information rather than sitting through a 30-minute production. We anticipate this will not only serve our viewers better, but it will also benefit our sponsors.” Those bursts of information will be delivered on location by our new “Style TV” host, Leesburg native Tina Morrison, who will draw on her homegrown knowledge to bring hyper-local programming to the television market. “I’m very honored to be representing the county I was born and raised in,” Tina says. “I can’t wait to see ‘Style TV’ catapult Lake County into the limelight. We may not be the biggest place in Florida, but we have a lot going on, and I want to capture that on our show.” Tina is no stranger to the camera. She has spent the last nine months as the Hi! Society correspondent on “Style TV.” Becoming the host fulfills a dream she has had since her pigtail-wearing days. “This is something I have always wanted to do. I remember pretending to be a television reporter in the mirror as a kid,” she says. “Then when I came to Akers, I found my talent in hosting. The more I did it, the more I fell in love with it. Becoming the host was a no-brainer because I am so familiar with what we are trying to accomplish. I want to represent Lake County with loads of charisma and dedication. I want to show why people are so proud to call this place ‘home.’” The rejuvenated show format is sure to entice new fans, but “Style TV” remains true to capturing the spirit of Lake County’s unique community.
“You’re still going to get a fun, upbeat show. You’re still going to be entertained and see the faces and places you recognize around town,” says Tina. “You’re still going to feel that sense of pride we have in being a voice for our community. The same fire will be there, but it’s getting a few degrees hotter.” “Style TV” will feature many of the same segments that made the program widely popular. Hi! Society will continue to bring you all the highlights from local events. Whether it is festivals, concerts, or big name events like Leesburg Bikefest and Pig on the Pond, Tina and the rest of the “Style TV” crew will be there to interview who’s who and capture all the sites and sounds to make you feel like you are there. Bon Appetit will still take you inside some of the area’s best restaurants to see what’s cooking, while the Cover Story will give viewers an intimate look at what it takes each month to produce the print edition of Lake & Sumter Style. However, expect to see some new rotating segments that will feature exclusive interviews, scenes from around the community, and coverage of the hottest topics trending locally. “We are very excited to be offering the latest information on such a regular basis now,” says Tina. “From ribbon cuttings to community barbecues, be on the lookout for ‘Style TV.’ It is going to be ‘E! News’ meets Lake County.”
We love to hear from you! Submit any story ideas, comments, or suggestions to Tina Morrison at tina@akersmediagroup.com.
TINA MORRISON was born and raised in Lake County and attended Leesburg High School and Lake-Sumter State College. In addition to being the host for “Style TV,” Tina is the office manager and community relations liaison at Akers Media. In her spare time, Tina enjoys boating, traveling, baking, and spending time with her husband Daniel, their fur-baby Beau, and her family.
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Final thought // Gary McKechnie
MONEY’S GOOD, HAPPINESS IS BETTER
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lthough I don’t know every high school senior in the Class of 2014 (actually I don’t know any), I’m impressed. But I’d still like to offer a few words of advice. In the past 12 years you’ve mastered a new language and learned about science, mathematics, art, music, sports, literature, geography, photography, computers, poetry, history, and government. High school is such an intense experience it’s likely that in 50 years you’ll still be friends with many of your friends from your senior class. It’s also kind of funny that in 2064, you’ll all be seniors again. It’s unlikely, though, that high school will still be the highlight of your life. That’s like saying you know how a book ends after reading one chapter. The rest of your life is more than a book — it’ll be a vast library filled with volumes of travels, experiences, events, and achievements. As you start to add to this library, put this one on a shelf: Be yourself. That’s it. Everyone else is taken, so be yourself. No matter how much you admire a musician, an actor, a writer, athlete, or teacher, remember you will never be them. So be inspired, but be yourself. And if your role model is a reality show star, never forget that reality stars are neither. It takes time to know who
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you are, to be comfortable with your own company and sure of decisions you make. Over time, you’ll meet a lot of adults who don’t even know even who they are. But once you figure it out, it becomes easier to add the next volume: Follow your passion. How can you separate what you think you want to do from what you really want to do? It’s as easy as depositing an imaginary million dollars into an imaginary bank account and asking yourself, “Now that I don’t have to work tomorrow, how will I spend my day?” Will it work? Well, after I asked myself that question in my mid-20s, I realized that if I didn’t have to chase money, I was free to chase my true passions, which were traveling and writing. After I knew my goal, I crafted a lifestyle that would get me there. On the strength of my passion and on the single-minded purpose to pursue it, that one decision has since taken me around the world. In the next few years you’ll recognize that too many people chase careers based solely on the comfort of a steady income. Before they know it, though, they’re watching years go by as they wait for a reward that may be 20 or 30 or 40 years away. So whatever lights your fire, whatever you would do for free, find that thing and then find a way to get paid for it. It’ll be tough and you may get
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discouraged, but few things of value come easy. And while you’re figuring out how to spend your day, figure out how to spend your money. Better yet, figure out how not to spend your money. If you ever wondered why ads, music, fashion, technology, movies, magazines, and television are geared for your age group, it’s because these industries know that you want things — and you want them right now. For the first time in your life you’re about to make some serious cash, and the first thing you want to do is spend that money. So to these industries you’re not just a person in a target market, you are a target. So keep your guard up. Resist tempting credit card offers suggesting how easy it is to spend what money you do have — along with thousands of dollars you don’t have. Instant gratification feels great until you’re
surrounded by a pile of stuff you didn’t need sitting next to a pile of bills you can’t pay. If you can’t afford to buy something, don’t buy it. Most of you were born around 1996, which means you’re going to see and do things that most people my age (I’m 21) can’t even imagine. You’re also going to face challenges no one else has ever had to deal with. But here’s a 100 percent foolproof way that you’ll never fail… Never give up. As long as you’re trying, as long as you’re making an effort, you still have a chance. And when things don’t work out, if you did your best, you should have no regrets. I’ll sign off with this message from one of my favorites. Before he was in The Beatles (ask your parents), John Lennon was a student like you. Years later, when someone asked him about setting his life’s goals, he recalled a moment in the classroom. “When I was 5 years old,” he said, “my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy’. They told me I didn’t understand the assignment… “I told them they didn’t understand life.” So here’s wishing you years of happiness. Make yourself, your family, and your world proud.
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