The Villages edition of STYLE Magazine, April 2014

A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Roaring success stories

IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN

April

2014

South Lake Animal League helps animals find their ‘fur’-ever home

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH

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“After having a peripheral nerve stimulator implanted, my pain has been decreased by 85 percent. I am no longer on pain medication and muscle relaxers.

Dr. Pyles is excellent, and I’ve recommended him to friends.”

“They do not get any better than Dr. Pyles. He has helped reduce the nerve pain in my legs by 70 percent. He is a great doctor who listens carefully to his patients and addresses their concerns. He is a top-notch doctor and friend.”

—MELISSA HOLYCROSS, OCALA`

—STEVE CARROLL, OCALA

“Dr. Pyles is a miracle worker. I have spinal stenosis and thought I would live with leg pain for the rest of my life. He implanted a spinal cord stimulator and gave me my life back.

He is a wonderful doctor.”

—PAM COOK, OCALA

Stephen T. Pyles, M.D.

Pain Treatment Centers 2300 S. Pine Ave. I Ocala, FL 34471

352.861.4600 www.drpyles.com

g in t ra b le e C

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s! r a ye

Your life.

Well furnished.

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DESIGN CONSULTING FINANCING OPTIONS LOCAL DELIVERY

“We love bringing fresh, current, and custom styles to our community. It’s great to be able to offer quality made furniture at affordable prices.”

— Gina and Brian Ward

PINPOINTE LASER TREATMENT The Center for Ankle & Foot Care uses the state-of-the-art PinPointe Laser to cure embarrassing and unsightly toenail fungus. This FDA-approved treatment is a safe and effective way to kill fungus and improve the appearance of your nails. Our practice also sells the SteriShoe. This patented ultraviolet shoe sanitizer kills the microbes that cause athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and offensive shoe odor.

FOOT AND ANKLE CARE

THE NATURAL NAIL SPA

Board-certified foot surgeons Dr. Michele McGowan and Dr. Timothy Henne offer a number of foot and ankle services for comprehensive foot care and ankle disorders. They are trained to handle problems as small as ingrown toenails and warts to as large and complex as bunions, hammertoes and heel pain.

For a relaxing and enjoyable spa experience, try the Natural Nail Spa, a podiatrist-owned and certified modern nail lounge that maintains a pampering, relaxing atmosphere and the utmost sterilization and safety techniques. Even the nail polish bottle goes home with the client — just another step to heighten the “safe pedicure experience.”

cont April

2014 // VO LU M E 1 1 N U M B E R 6

Featuring 38

IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN

South Lake Animal League is truly an organization making a difference one Happy Tail at a time. Since 1988, SLAL has rescued and rehabilitated several abandoned, abused, and forgotten dogs and cats, and their impeccable record of success allows them to continue providing these animals a second chance at life.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

46 52

HALL OF SHAME

Do your pets have no shame? Who knows, but what we do know is they look awful cute when they are being bad. Style asked local pets owners to give us their best pet shaming photos. We’re giving you, our readers, our top five.

A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

For some animals, releasing them into the wild isn’t an option. That’s when animal sanctuaries step in. At Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS), big cats, primates, and bears live out the remainder of their lives receiving tender care from passionate volunteers. And Two Tails Ranch is the only privately owned elephant facility of its kind.

STORIES: JAMES COMBS AND SHEMIR WILES

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CITY SERIES: UMATILLA: NATURE’S HOMETOWN

This month we visit Umatilla, Nature’s Hometown.

It may be tiny, but there is a lot to do for nature enthusiasts looking to experience a slice of Old Florida or foodies searching for delicious hometown eats.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS

LAKE&SUMTER EDITION

VILLAGES EDITION

On the cover PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

On the cover ICE DEBUTS THE NEW IMPULSE PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK April 20 14

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tents 28

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Departments 20

FROM THE PUBLISHER

23

FIRST THINGS FIRST 24 #TRENDING Who is the new Lake County Teacher of the Year? Find this answer and more in April’s #Trending.

28 PERSON OF INTEREST You could say that Joe Bamford’s life has absolutely rocked.

Throughout his career in the music industry, he has managed numerous bands and has transported musical legends through his tour bus company.

67

ON THE SCENE 68 THE TO-DO LIST From golf balls to motorcycles, Style has you covered on all you need to know when it comes to the hottest happenings this month in Lake and Sumter counties.

72 SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT All aboard!

Planes, Trains, & BBQ in Tavares will allow visitors to enjoy dazzling air show displays, ride aboard the Orange Blossom Cannonball, and eat delicious barbecue.

Story: James Combs

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76 HI, SOCIETY! Art lovers and sweet fashions are just a few of the highlights from this month’s spotlighted events.

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EATS! 92 IN THE KITCHEN Italy is served Executive Chef Roberto Manco’s passion for cooking is evident in the incredible Italian cuisine he whips up at Giovanni’s Ristorante and Pizzeria in The Villages.

Story: Shemir Wiles 96 SALUTE Secrets of Sonoma When it comes to wine, everyone has heard of Napa County in California, but neighboring Sonoma County has grown into a first-class destination where the wine is just as enchanting.

Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 98 FORK ON THE ROAD Mason Jar Restaurant From the crispy fried chicken to thick homemade meatloaf, every down-home dish at Mason Jar is a country delicacy served with Southern charm.

Story: Shemir Wiles

30 OUTSTANDING STUDENT South Sumter High School senior Sean Fussell will proudly serve his country as a United States Marine. He is also one of the state’s top-armed exhibition drill competitors on the high school level.

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74 OUT+ABOUT Canine ambassadors Imagine a hotel that helps travelers cope with missing their own furry friend. Well, one chain is providing a fourlegged amenity that offers companionship and extra security for hotel guests far away from home.

Story: Patti Nickell

.com

112 FINAL THOUGHT Down in the dumps There is more than just trash down at the Lake County Landfill.

Story: Gary McKechnie

just a touch away

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 Tina Morrison

Steven J. Codraro

Shemir Wiles

Josh Clark

EDITORIAL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR tina@akersmediagroup.com

MANAGING EDITOR shemir@akersmediagroup.com

Mary Ann DeSantis

EDITOR-AT-LARGE maryann@akersmediagroup.com

James Combs

STAFF WRITER james@akersmediagroup.com

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR steve@akersmediagroup.com

SENIOR DESIGNER/ADVERTISING josh@akersmediagroup.com

Anthony Casto

SENIOR DESIGNER/EDITORIAL anthony@akersmediagroup.com

Michael Gaulin PRODUCTION DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

Fred Lopez

Aubrey Akers

Matthew Gaulin

Brittany Buell

Gary McKechnie Leigh Neely Patti Nickell Kathy Porter

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CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER fred@akersmediagroup.com

PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT matthew@akersmediagroup.com

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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MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE heidi@akersmediagroup.com

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MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE lori@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION Scott Hegg

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com LAKE & SUMTER STYLE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF

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WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style, April 2014. Published monthly by Akers Media Group, 1450 E. North Blvd, Leesburg, Florida 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2014

by Akers Media Group. All rights reserved. Lake & Sumter Style is a registered trademark of Akers Media Group. 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 Group.

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android

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This month on

What’s happening beyond the print edition

TORI PETRI

HOST OF “STYLE TV”

COVER STORY

South Lake Animal League Pet Connect Carnival This month “Style TV” is going to the dogs (and cats). South Lake Animal League’s second annual Pet Connect Carnival in Clermont included family friendly entertainment, yummy food, a Rescues and Runways doggie fashion show, and plenty of four-legged friends looking for ‘fur’ever homes.

BON APPÉTIT Mason Jar

What’s the best way to sip sweet tea? Out of a mason jar, of course. And what better place to do that than down at the Mason Jar Restaurant in Umatilla? Correspondent Jana Wheeler gets a taste of some good old-fashioned home cooking on this edition of Bon Appetit.

THIS MONTH’S SPONSOR: HARBOR HILLS CITY SERIES

HI, SOCIETY!

Clermont, located in South Lake County, is known as the “Gem of the Hills.” The historic downtown area is surrounded by gently sloping hills that reveal stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Nikko Tan takes to the streets to explore this picturesque town.

What do barbecue, rubber ducks, and pigs have in common? They were all a part of the annual Pig on the Pond for Kids event. Tina Morrison was on location for the threeday extravaganza that featured some out-of-this-world food, live entertainment, a “no duck left behind” rubber ducky race to raise scholarship funds, and much more.

Clermont

Pig on the Pond

The rolling hills and unparalleled beauty of Harbor Hills makes it one of the top areas to build a home.

This month, “Style TV” takes a tour of this stunning community and highlights all it has to offer.

TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT STYLE AT: 16

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.com

Catch us on LSTV on Bright House channel 199 and Comcast channel 13.

Tuesday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Thursday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Saturday: 10a.m. and 10p.m.

Sunday: 11a.m. and 5:30p.m.

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At your service

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Open 7 days a week

Where to find us

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 Group, 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 Group, Inc. 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.

Gourmet Kitchen Products Unique and Hard To Find Specialty Kitchen Products

Make Us Your 2014 Baking and Cooking Headquarters

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We’re looking for

a Few good story ideas

*Gift cards available *Also shop on-line at www.KaDeeKay.com

Let us know what you would like to read in

Lake & Sumter STYLE magazine.

* SEND YOUR IDEAS TO: Tina@akersmediagroup.com OR MAIL US AT: AKERS MEDIA GROUP, INC. P.O. BOX 490088 LEESBURG, FL 34749

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From the publisher

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE One thing is clear: as a community, we love animals. For this month’s pet issue, we had so many cute, cuddly, and adoptable animals from South Lake Animal League (SLAL) as contenders for our cover we just could not decide which one to feature. Therefore, we reached out to our readers and asked you to visit our website to vote on your favorite. The participation was incredible. I have seen cover model contests before and I know they can be very popular, but not like this. We were inundated with votes day after day for more than a week until we had to bring the voting to a close. Our cover model, Ronnie, won by at least 30 percent of the vote.

Ronnie is very popular to say the least. He also is a very special little boy because he has only three legs. A car struck him and as a result, he had to have one of his legs amputated. With time and lots of love, Ronnie learned to live his life with only three limbs. Now, he is happy, vibrant, full of life, and has even become a fast runner.

Ronnie has overcome so much in his short life, so it is only fitting that after having our cover contest he would find his ‘fur’ever home. He now has someone to love him, nurture him, cuddle with him, and take him for walks — he finally has a place that he can call home.

However, there are hundreds of dogs and cats still in need of loving homes.

As we prepared for this issue, our staff visited SLAL to see just how many are available. The numbers are shocking, especially since this is just one of many organizations here in Lake and Sumter that works tirelessly to give animals a second chance at life.

Something else we found was an amazing group of SLAL volunteers who are extremely passionate about what they do. They are on a mission to find loving families for the abandoned animals within our community, and that is something to be admired.

I commend SLAL for its community service, and after having the pleasure of making them a part of our pet issue, I am certain there are heavenly angels here on earth.

We hope you enjoy the issue,

Kendra Akers, publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com

feedback Tell us like it is!

AN OUTSTANDING THANK-YOU

Thank you so much for featuring me as the Outstanding Student in January’s issue. I had a wonderful time being interviewed and photographed by your fabulous staff and could not be more pleased with how the article turned out. I look forward to reading all future issues of Style. Your magazine is truly something to brag about!

— Leah Wertz

______________

CHEERS FROM CLERMONT

I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful article on Clermont in your February issue. As president of the South Lake County Historical Society, I was especially pleased to read all the complementary things that were written about us and our efforts in conjunction with the City at the Historic Village. We are very proud of the Village and all it has to offer to anyone interested in learning about our past. The comments about our dear member Charlie Konsler were especially heartwarming to read. Charlie is a living treasure and we are so lucky to have him available to our visitors in the World War II Quonset Hut. — Donna M. DiGennaro,

is to give our youth in Lake County the opportunity to be involved in a positive activity for growth and development as they go through high school… your contribution has helped make this happen!

— Shelly Gerig and Haley Gerig

______________

HOW SWEET IT IS

I just wanted to let you know what a great staff you have at Style. Shemir Wiles was lovely to chat with and we had such a good time. She was patient, attentive to detail, and charming. I am very pleased with the pictures Fred Lopez took and he also is wonderful and patient to work with and had some great ideas. I was thrilled with the article that they put together and have already had a lot of feedback. I also have worked with Mary Ann DeSantis on several articles and I cannot say enough about how wonderful she is.

Her enthusiasm is contagious; she is truly a “Southern lady.” I feel you are very lucky to have such a great staff. Thank you for including us in your Wedding Issue of Style.

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owner of Cotillion Southern Cafe & Miz Kathi’s Southern Sweetery

President of the South Lake County Historical Society

______________

SUPPORTING A GOOD CAUSE

Thank you for your support of the Sweet Treats for a Cause Fashion Show Fundraiser on January 18, 2014. Our goal

We love feedback! Send your letters and comments to: letters@ akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Letters at Akers Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 490088 Leesburg, FL 34749. (Letters may be published.

If you prefer not to be published, just mark your correspondence “not for print”).

danucc@aol.com 352.753.8653 April 20 14

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FREEDOM TO KEEP THE DOCTOR WHO FOLLOWS YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Camogliano

INTERNAL MEDICINE A P.U.P. representative is

now at our location during open enrollment.

From office to hospital to skilled nursing facility and rehab, we follow you through every stage of your care.

Lab Draws // PT-INR, Coumadin Checks // Echocardiogram Ultrasounds // Men & Women Annual Physicals Diabetes Screening/Glucose Monitoring // Blood Pressure/Cholesterol Screening/Monitoring School/Employment Physicals // Bone Density Testing // EKG Testing

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www.DrCamogliano.com • Find us out on M–F 8:30a.m.–5:30p.m.

First Things

f1rst 24 28 30

#TRENDING PERSON OF INTEREST OUTSTANDING STUDENT

JOE BAMFORD In tune with music Read more about Joe ON PAGE 28.

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First things first // #trending Spotlighting the best of local people, places, and events

BUILDING A STRONG NUCLEUS Christian Home and Bible School recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a $2.8 million renovation and addition to the science building.

This is the largest construction project on the 70-acre campus since the addition of an elementary school building in 2000.

The Jerome B. Thompson Science Building will be a 15,000-square-foot facility with six classrooms, including cutting-edge science and laboratory equipment. The building will also house a student center, which will include a café for students and faculty, as well as the MDB Dog House where students can purchase school spirit merchandise.

Local dignitaries who attended the groundbreaking ceremony included Mount Dora Mayor Cathy Hoechst and Mount Dora City Council members Ed Rowlett, Dennis Wood, and Nick Girone.

HAVING A BALL

is originally from Thibodaux, La. Revelers also enjoyed a royal feast prepared by SonRise Café and listened to live Cajun and swamp pop music performed by The Porch Dogs. In addition, some guests won gifts donated by Tabasco, and everyone received a pirate’s booty bag and a gift of seasonings donated by Cajun’s Choice.

Club members have already started planning for Mardi Gras 2015.

It was an evening of merriment, feasting, and dancing in The Villages as the Louisiana Club held its second annual Mardi Gras Ball.

Attendees dressed as Egyptians and pirates descended upon Lake Miona Recreation Center, which on this fun-filled evening was converted into a mini-New Orleans.

One of the evening’s highlights was the crowning of Richard and Geri Calais, who were named as the 2014 King and Queen. The couple

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*

By the numbers

64.5 million Americans volunteered in 2012

33.5

%

of parents with children under age 18 volunteer.

79.2

%

VALUABLE VOLUNTEERS April is National Volunteer Month. Recently, the Lake County Board of County Commissioners held a special recognition ceremony to honor 43 volunteers who have contributed more than 150 hours of service. The Board of County Commissioners has received more than 25,000 hours of volunteer assistance in the literacy program, Teen Court, emergency services, parks and trails, and animal services.

The 43 volunteers are as follows: Peg Urban (150 hours) Kevin Bertelsen (152 hours) Kathleen Weaver (153 hours) Linda Perrine (156 hours) Sondra Surface (158 hours) Strait Hollis (168 hours) Gerald Blackburn (171 hours) Abdullah Derosier (171 hours) Carl Mullins (182 hours) Stephen Flynn (183 hours) Sally Fisher (185 hours) Emil Vandevelde (187 hours) David Husunuma (188 hours) Jarold Michael (189 hours) Carl DePoy (194 hours) Robert Putman (196 hours) Lanny Villinis (199 hours) Peg Lindsay (208 hours) Paul Branch (210 hours) Tom Merchant (218 hours) Constance Gibb (232 hours)

John Walton (240 hours) Fred Fitte (243 hours) Patricia Davis (250 hours) Chitkumari Budram (253 hours) Michael Grovac (255 hours) Wanda Klaas (257 hours) Gary Davis (260 hours) Doug Rehman (271 hours) Whitney Luckhart (285 hours) Nancy Puckett (287 hours) Judith Gehrke (313 hours) Jay Boehme (317 hours) Charles Keller (354 hours) Jane Smith (375 hours) Paul Hemby (383 hours) George Wingate (397 hours) Michelle Brady (400 hours) Neil Wasserman (423 hours) Mary Sturdivant (426 hours) Craig Smith (509 hours) Barney Rae (574 hours) Howard Youngmeyer (579 hours)

JOSH TAKES ON: AN ADMITTEDLY ASKEW POINT-OF-VIEW FROM THE MIND OF ILLUSTRATOR JOSH CLARK

of volunteers also donate to charity.

%

18.5

of volunteers are between the ages of 20 and 24.

Sources: volunteeringinamerica.gov; Bureau of Labor Statistics

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First things first // #trending Spotlighting the best of local people, places, and events

BEAUTY FROM WITHIN

JAMIE MARK’S APRIL

THEHITLIST

Nine girls were crowned during the Miss Lake County Florida beauty pageant held last January at the Women’s Club in Eustis. The winners will spend 2014 participating in numerous community service projects throughout the county.

_____________________________________

1 // MOUNT DORA INDISPOSED The city hopes to go from paying for sewage disposal to making money on it by drying and pasteurizing the waste into fertilizer for sale. Gives new meaning to the expression “flush with cash.”

2 // SOUTH LAKE GETS ON ITS SOAPBOX Soapbox derby racing coming to Clermont!

The community is unsure how to feel after organizer John Bomm’s assurence that its all downhill from here.

3 // HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER Fans say the series finale was legen-… wait for it…

The winners are pictured as follows:

Annelise Baltunis

Front left: Kylie Adams

Kameran Johns

of Umatilla, Pee Wee Miss

of Leesburg, Junior Miss

of Mount Dora, Little Miss

Ashley Pierson

Front right: Camden Phelps

of Groveland, Ms.

of Leesburg, Tiny Miss

of The Villages, Miss

Center row: Lindsay Shurley

Back row: Olivia Aouadi

of Groveland, Teen Miss Teen

Rannie Parrish

“True pageantry is not about the crown, the banner, and the pretty face,” says Jackie Croft, director of Miss Lake County Florida. “It is about inside beauty and what you can give back to your community and those less fortunate. That is what we are all about. Pageantry is a sport to the girls who compete and can help young girls build self-esteem, public speaking ability, and leadership skills so they can become our leaders of tomorrow.”

of Leesburg, Ambassador

Mackenzie Pollock of Clermont, Ambassador

4 // LEESBURG CHICKENS OUT The revised city ordinance allowing residents to raise up to 15 chickens in their backyards has some people cheering while others just don’t give a cluck.

5 // CANADIAN WOMAN fakes quintuplet pregnancy and fools everyone, including the supposed father! Shame that her early “labor” ruined the best April Fool’s prank. Ever.

6 // FRUITLAND PARK ZONING OUT In the latest development, city commissioners consider zoning changes needed for The Villages expansion. Now this is how to annex a territory you want! Hope Putin’s taking notes.

7 // MOUNT DORA MAKES THE LIST of Best Small Towns to Visit in 2014 by Smithsonian Magazine. In a related story, Mount Dora names Smithsonian Magazine to its list of best publications to read — after L&S Style, of course!

Queen for a day Nearly 30 years ago, Venia Wheat and her husband, Bill, were close to retiring. Instead, they followed a longtime dream of Bill’s by purchasing a Dairy Queen in Indianapolis. They developed a loyal following and on numerous occasions won the National Purity

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Award for the cleanest and most productive Dairy Queen.

Venia now resides at Sterling House Tavares. To this day, though, she beams about owning a Dairy Queen store and the necessary work ethic to maintain a successful franchise.

Not surprisingly, Venia celebrated her 96th birthday with her daughter at … you guessed it … Dairy Queen in Mount Dora. To say it was a sweet celebration would be an understatement.

THEY NAILED IT HERE ARE THE 2014 PARADE OF HOMES WINNERS

This year’s Grand/Top Score award went to

“The Huntley”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group.

$134,000-$210,000:

“The Monica”

by Royal Oak Homes, first place

“The Tiffany”

by Kevco Builders, second place

$217,000-245,000:

“The Hartford A”

by Maronda Homes, first place

“The Meadow Ridge Custom Home”

by Kevco Builders, second place

DUELING DRAGONS Mythical creatures will be brought to life as dragons surge through the waters of Lake Dora and leave quite a wake in the process. Okay, not really. We’re actually referring to dragon boats that bear a striking resemblance to dragons.

The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle proudly presents the 12th annual Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival, which will be held April 4–5 at Wooton Park in Tavares.

The event features action-packed, highly competitive races on boats with 20 paddlers, a drummer who yells instructions to the team, and a steersperson at the back of the boat. The

boats feature a dragon’s head at the bow, tail at the stern, and scales painted along the sides.

This type of racing is a team sport that requires power and precision as paddlers use oars to pull through the water in unison. For more information, visit cfdragonboat.org

F.Y.I. Dragon boat racing originated in China more than 2,300 years ago. The sport made its debut in the U.S. in the early 1980s, and today, more than 100 cities host dragon boat races.

Source: racedragonboats.com/about/the-history/

$256,000-$325,000:

“The Huntley”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group, first place

“The Vista”

by Pioneer Custom Homes, second place

$344,000-$424,000:

“The Tocana”

by J. Drewes Construction, first place

“The Scarsborough”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group, second place

$449,000-$621,000:

“The Flagler”

by Mainsail Solutions, first place

“The Arrezzo II”

by Harbor Hills Development, second place

Best in class A teacher’s unyielding passion for helping students achieve academic success has paid big dividends.

Rachel Adams, a fourthgrade teacher at Round Lake Elementary School, was named Lake County Teacher of the Year for 2015 during a celebration dinner held at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora. She has five years of teaching experience.

A quote from her Teacher of the Year application reads, “To a teacher, success is different, and only a teacher could

understand the overwhelming joy that comes from seeing confidence build in the eyes of students. Without a doubt, our role as educators goes far beyond the four walls of our classroom, as we not only strive to impart knowledge but also to inspire students toward a passion for continual learning and growth.”

The other two finalists were Keith Hyndshaw, a social studies teacher at Leesburg High School, and Tiffany Scott, a math teacher at Mount Dora Middle School.

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First things first // person of interest Movers and shakers

VITAL STATS IN TUNE: Joe has enjoyed a long career in the music

industry, having managed numerous bands and owning a tour bus company.

ALIGNING THE STARS: In recent years, Joe brought

famous country music legends Willie Nelson and Kenny Rogers to perform in Lake County.

STARSTRUCK: Throughout the years, my bus company has carried entertainers such as Elton John, Sarah McLachlan, Guess Who, Rush, and Nickleback.

ROCK AND ROLL ROYALTY: One of my favorite bands is the Rolling Stones. One time, I was standing 10 feet from the band members but did not shake their hands. I did not want to take a chance of them being snobby and ruin the image I had.

JOE BAMFORD OWNER OF HALJOE COACH AGE: 67 RESIDES IN LEESBURG

HAVE BUS, WILL TRAVEL: In 1989, I realized there was a need for a tour bus company.

I paid $100,000 for my first tour bus. I became the first person to start a rock and roll tour bus company in Canada.

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FUTURE PLANS: I would like to write a book about everything that has happened around me during my life. Every month, every year, there has been a story.

ROLLING ALONG: I received a phone call from the Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies and learned they were going to perform 200 shows in Canada. They wanted a second bus. Gerald Howell, who was my bus driver when I was on the road, also drove buses for Jerry and Jack Calhoun, twin country music singers from Leesburg. Gerald talked to Jerry and told him I was trying to get my tour bus company off the ground. Jerry financed me and wanted me to expand my company to the United States. Now, I live in Leesburg during the winter and in Canada during the summer.

MUSICAL ASPIRATIONS: In January or February of 2015, I want to bring Merle Haggard to The Villages. I would also love to do a concert with Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, as well as one with ZZ Top. DESIRED TOMBSTONE INSCRIPTION: “Joe cared.”

INSPIRATION: My father. When I was 5, I wanted a bicycle for Christmas. Instead, he gave me a snow scooper and told me to go up and down the neighborhood picking up snow. His message was that I would have to work hard for anything I wanted in life.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

ENTRY INTO MUSIC: When I was in high school in New Brunswick, Canada, I was fat and never had a girlfriend. A friend of mine had a band and one day, I was helping band members haul equipment to one of their gigs. As I was unloading the equipment out of the van, a pretty blond girl came up and asked me if I was in the band. At that point I knew I needed to be involved in music. I started managing bands at age 19.

BIG HEART: After my son-in-law died of cancer, my daughter raised $100,000 for cancer research. I started a program called “Get off the Bus” to raise money for charitable causes. I use my connections throughout the music industry to convince artists to be a part of these concerts. I raised $100,000 for the West Parry Sound Health Centre, which is in my hometown in Canada. The concerts in Florida raise money for autism.

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First things first // outstanding student Making the grade

VITAL STATS HITTING THE BOOKS: Maintains a 3.5 grade-point average.

QUITE ADVANCED: Sean is taking an advanced placement class in government and politics.

ON TRACK FOR SUCCESS: Sean stars on his high school track team. His girlfriend, Daila Miller, encouraged him to join the track team after he finished his first 5K race in 22 minutes.

I HAVE BEEN A PART OF SOUTH SUMTER HIGH SCHOOL’S ROTC program for four years. It has given me the confidence, self-discipline, and leadership skills necessary to become an outstanding Marine.

THE MOVIE “FULL METAL JACKET” does not scare me from becoming a Marine. I laugh during the boot camp portion of the movie.

LAST JUNE, I ATTENDED the Leadership Academy at Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg. It is a weeklong boot camp for high school ROTC students.

This was the hardest week of my life. We would wake up at 5:20a.m. to do physical fitness exercises and conquer obstacles.

The drill instructors were tough, but it helped prepare me for what I’ll face during boot camp as a Marine.

I ALSO ATTENDED Student Leadership University last July in Orlando. I listened to pastors, chief executive officers, and other industry leaders talk about the importance of leadership. Attending both the Leadership Academy and Student Leadership University crafted me into a better leader than I would have been otherwise.

AGE : 1 8 S E N I O R AT S O U T H S U M T E R HIGH SC HO OL

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ONE DAY, TWO MARINE CORPS RECRUITERS came into the classroom and showed us a video. The video lit a fire in me. I realized then that I wanted to serve in the best branch and receive the best training.

WHEN I TOLD MY FAMILY MEMBERS I wanted to be a Marine, some tried to discourage me. They said the Marines are too tough.

However, I refuse to give up. I want to train with the best soldiers.

IN ARMED EXHIBITION drills I compete with a 9.2-pound 1903 Springfield rifle. I used to practice every day with a rifle that had a bayonet.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE IS “Smokey and The Bandit.” I really like the old Burt Reynolds movies.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

SEAN FUSSELL

AFTER I GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL, I will join the United States Marine Corps (USMC).

I HAVE BEEN COMPETING in armed exhibition drills since my sophomore year. Armed exhibition involves spinning a rifle and requires extreme concentration and strength. At my first competition at Winter Park High School, I finished in second place. That qualified me to compete in the state competition in Oviedo, where I also finished in second place.

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IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN Since 1988, South Lake Animal League has been giving abused, abandoned, and neglected cats and dogs a second chance at life.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

Katherine peers through the meshed window of her soft-sided carrier with a curiosity only a cat could possess.

She’s intrigued by the sights and sounds inside South Lake Animal League’s lobby but she’s also guarded.

To soothe the nervous tabby’s misgivings, Ronnie Wasilewski gives a gentle caress of Katherine’s fur before posing for their Happy Tails picture.

“She is going to be my other cat Betty’s playmate. I’m sure they will get along just fine,” Ronnie says with smile. “I’m just glad she is off the streets and not having any more litters.

I saw her kittens at Petco and decided to adopt her instead so she could be spayed. I really wish pet owners would learn to be more responsible.”

After a quick snuggle, Katherine returns to her kennel cab, ready to begin a new life in Clermont. Ronnie says she has always adopted rescues, especially from places like SLAL. “They seem like they really care about the animals here. South Lake Animal League is really doing a great job saving them.”

TO THE RESCUE

South Lake Animal League has led the charge in helping abused, abandoned, and neglected animals for nearly 26 years. The nonprofit organization started as a grassroots effort by a small group of animal lovers committed to a no-kill policy. Now, SLAL has ballooned to include nearly 200 volunteers who divide their hours between work for the adoption center, Petco in Clermont, and the thrift store on West Montrose Street in Clermont.

Each year since the opening of phase one of A Haven Before A Home Adoption Center in Groveland in 2010, SLAL has placed approximately 600 pets in loving ‘fur’ever homes, a feat that has contributed to the organization’s growing notoriety beyond Lake County’s borders.

At the heart of SLAL is Doreen Baker, the president and lifeblood of

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the organization. Even the most roadweary and pugnacious animals sense her caring nature and calm under her soothing touch. When Doreen speaks about SLAL, it’s with enthusiasm, and it is contagious, which translates to adoptions, community awareness, donations, and grants that allow her and her volunteers to keep giving animals a second chance at happiness.

FINDING A HOME

Adoption is the end game at A Haven Before A Home Adoption Center.

Between their website (slal.org) and their Facebook page, SLAL works diligently to help their rescues find stable homes. Many of their dogs and cats come from kill shelters with a high euthanasia rate, but when they arrive, each animal receives the best routine and specialized veterinary care to get them adoption ready.

However, don’t think SLAL is in the business of handing over their puppies and kitties to just anyone. They are a best match facility, meaning they match the pet’s personality and needs with the needs and lifestyle of the family to increase the likelihood of a long and happy relationship.

“We have 140 pets right now, but we average about 70 adoptions a month,” says Doreen. “We have a great turnover, despite how particular we are with our matching. No one stays longer than three weeks.”

However, there are always a few pets that seem to stay longer than others.

One that has struggled to find her ‘fur’ever home is Rosie, a 2-year-old female Border Collie/Kelpie mix.

“The obstacle with Rosie is she becomes very attached to whoever she loves and she guards them fiercely against others dogs and even spouses,” explains Doreen. “She has been here over a year and has been adopted and returned twice.”

Then there are brothers Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson — not the country music singers but two Schnauzer/Jack Russell Terrier mixes that are both sight impaired and heartworm positive. To treat each pet for heartworm can range from $500 to $800; therefore, SLAL has started the Have a Heart! Heartworm Recovery Fund to help with costs.

“We receive a lot of heartworm positive animals because it’s so easy for them to contract. All it takes is just one mosquito bite,” says Doreen. “So we foot the costs for medications and vaccinations to make these animals healthy before they leave here, but it does get expensive. For example, to care for one pet, it costs us $367.”

Other longtime residents include Oscar Mayer, a beautiful red Daschund mix that’s the size of a basset hound, and Ronnie, a 7-month-old pup who was run over by a car and then turned over to a kill shelter because its owners

“WE HAVE SOME AMAZING ANIMALS IN HERE WITH HEARTBREAKING STORIES, BUT IT ALWAYS MAKES OUR DAY WHEN THOSE ANIMALS LEAVE US FOR BETTER LIVES.” — DOREEN BAKER

couldn’t afford treatment. Ronnie’s story is unique in that the shelter contacted SLAL and they took him in, hoping to have his shattered leg repaired. Unfortunately, the damage was too great and his left front leg was amputated. Nevertheless, Ronnie is learning to live life with only three legs.

“We have some amazing animals in here with heartbreaking stories,” Doreen says, “but it always makes our day when those animals leave us for better lives.”

Housed not too far away from their canine brethren are the adoption center’s feline residents. Inside the cat cottage, cats roam freely and live like a true cat colony. This allows potential owners to interact with the cats on a more personal and genuine level. On this particular day, Aries, a young, all-black domestic short hair with a playful attitude, served as the cottage’s greeter. He’s a sucker for belly rubs and cat toys.

“Aries was at the animal shelter getting neutered when they asked me if I would take him,” Doreen says.

“Someone was supposed to adopt him but changed their mind. I guess it just wasn’t his time then to find his home, but because he is such a sweet and gentle cat, I’m quite confident he’ll be adopted pretty quickly.”

A VOICE IN THE COMMUNITY

SLAL’s impact on the community reaches far beyond its primary mission of rehoming dogs and cats that have suffered unspeakable traumas; the organization also performs a great deal of community service. The Humane Education program focuses on increasing animal compassion and knowledge of pet responsibility and educating children and adults on the role and services their shelter provides. The goal is to create a generation that is more responsible when it comes to pet ownership.

“I remember as a kid not being educated on what it meant to own a pet,” says Doreen. “I didn’t know what a shelter did. I didn’t find out until my 20s.

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South Lake Animal League receives no federal or state funding. It relies on the generosity of the community to help care for the animals.

Yearly, SLAL spends more than $175,000 on animal care, which included vet costs, medications, pet food, pet supplies, labor, and operating costs. For more information on how you can donate, visit slal.org or call 352.429.6334.

SOUTH LAKE ANIMAL LEAGUE

WISH LIST Cleaning: Paper towels, liquid laundry detergent, bleach, kitchen and larger size trash bags, Pine Sol or generic brand cleaner, industrial mop heads, dish detergent, brooms, liquid hand soap, heavy duty hoses

It’s great that we rescue these animals and get them adopted, but education is important too. Both children and adults need to know what is going on with these animals in their community.”

SLAL also offers community assistance through their Nourish the Needy program, which supplies pet food to local food pantries, and its Pet Peace of Mind program, which helps Hospice patients with finding homes for their pets if they are unable to make the arrangements.

In the very near future, construction on phase two of A Haven Before A Home Adoption Center will begin, which will include a nursery, playrooms, space to isolate sick and incoming animals, and a medical room.

“This year we got a donor for the project so we are excited to see our facility expand,” says Doreen. “When the center is complete, we will be able to hold 225 dogs and cats. How amazing will that be? Think of how many more lives we’ll be able to save.”

Pets: Durable chew toys, dog harnesses and leashes, scratching posts, cat trees, cat toys, pet shampoo, canned Pedigree dog or puppy food, Purina Kitten Chow, volunteers to walk dogs and brush cats, pill pockets, gift certificates for home improvement and pet stores, Kuranda style dog beds, crates, kennels Office: Printing paper, Brother LC75 and LC71 ink One-time items: Shor-line type stainless steel cages for quarantine units, a transport vehicle for vet runs and adoption events, storage sheds, mobile building for temporary isolation wing, chain link fencing, small enclosed bumper pull trailer, universal microchip scanner, pop-up tents for events, misting fans and industrial hoses, commercial size dog washing bin, working Windows 7 or 8 PC or laptop, skilled maintenance or handyman volunteers, commercial washing machine and dryer

Every day at South Lake Animal League, laughs, smiles, and plenty of success stories make the job of loyal volunteers worthwhile. Many of these animals are rescued from unspeakable horrors, so it is always a beautiful sight to see one leave to begin life anew.

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An intimate evening of hearing songwriters tell the stories and perform their songs. What do musicians talk about when they get together? Get an inside view of a conversation between these artists who tell the stories of the songs they’ve written and perform each other’s music in an acoustic setting.

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‘BONE’AFIED GERIATRIC

PET CARE

If you are a pet owner, it probably seems like yesterday when you brought that adorable kitten or puppy home. You remember it running around the yard with endless energy and exploring its new surroundings.

Of course, there will inevitably come a time when your furry friends slow down. It is no secret that as people age, their health care needs change considerably. That’s because they are more prone to developing health conditions that may negatively affect their quality of life.

However, this is also true with pets.

If you want to ensure that your beloved dog or cat continues living a happy life, it must receive adequate care during its golden years.

Fortunately, Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver of Belleview Veterinary Hospital has extensive experience when it comes to caring for geriatric pets. She has always been a strong believer in preventive pet health care. After all, when problems are diagnosed and treated early, pets are able to live longer, healthier lives.

“Pet care is always important, but that is especially true during a pet’s older years,” says Dr. Erwin-Oliver, who has worked at the family-owned practice

for 13 years. “When a geriatric dog or cat does not feel well, some pet owners may automatically chalk it up to old age.

They need to know that age is not a disease. There is a reason your pet doesn’t feel good. Let’s fix it. It is always better to prevent a problem from occurring or treat it early rather than wait.”

Dr. Erwin-Oliver says that dogs become geriatric patients at approximately age 8, while cats at approximately age 9. At her office, she recommends yearly blood profiles of geriatric pets to monitor organ functions by looking at liver enzymes, kidney enzymes, blood cell counts, glucose levels, thyroid levels, and electrolytes. By doing so, she can detect numerous diseases in their early stages such as diabetes, kidney disease, blood disorders, liver disease, thyroid disorders, and Cushing’s disease, just to name a few.

“Problems start at a cellular level. Detecting these diseases early is important

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because we can combat many of them with proper nutrition and nutritional supplements. Diabetes is a good example. If a dog or cat has a slightly elevated glucose, we may be able to regulate it by diet alone. However, if the glucose reaches higher levels, then we’ll have to treat medically.”

In addition to blood profiles, Dr. Erwin-Oliver also conducts a thorough exam of the patient and auscultation of the heart and lungs. She also performs parasite screenings to detect intestinal parasites, which is a major problem in Florida. By performing a urinalysis, she can sometimes detect kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections.

Belleview Veterinary Hospital was founded in 1993. Today, Dr. Rick Erwin and his daughter, Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver, have a thriving practice located at 10725 S.E. 36th Ave. For more information, call 352.347.3900.

HALL OF

SHAME HAVE PETS NO SHAME?

MAYBE. MAYBE NOT.

These days, many pose for pictures with written “confessions” revealing the nature of their “crimes.” Some animals seem oblivious to their misdeeds, while others sport a look of guilt for doing something naughty.

Welcome to the world of pet shaming, a new trend that allows pet owners to post pictures of their furry friends on the Internet and social media sites with signs detailing their bad behavior — chewing furniture, escaping from the yard, or helping themselves to human food.

Lake & Sumter Style recently asked locals to submit pet shaming photographs of their beloved pets. Here are the five entries that we found to be doggone hilarious — and adorable.

Lilly sent by jenna Price

faith sent by erin hamill

myles

submitted by our very own kendra

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this year’s hall of shame winner

pringle & roxie

thomas sent by shemir

sent by alesha irwin

Our 1-year-old boxer Roxie has been testing “indestructible” beds. This ballistic fabric model, which has a “chew-proof guarantee,” was placed in her crate during lunch. Upon returning from work, she attempted to blame this explosion on her older brother Pringle. She now sleeps on a Kevlar® model that lasts about four months.

to see all the photos submitted

visit our website at lakeandsumterstyle.com

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Doc’s Care

Golf Scramble April 25, 2014 At

Bella Collina, 15920 County Road 455, Montverde, FL Jim Kroll, PGA Professional tournament coordinator

Benefiting

Lake-Sumter Medical Society & We Care of Lake County Tournament Chairmen, David Weyn, MD

$125.00 per person • $500.00 per foursome 7:30am Registration • 8:30am Shotgun Tee Time

Golfers Wanted!

Call us at 352-742-9902 or email frontdesk@lakesumter.org to participate in this exciting day on this lovely and challenging course.

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April 20 14

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GET A LEG UP ON VEIN PROBLEMS

On June 18th, Dr. Ravi Chandra and Dr. Steven Tieche of the Vein Center of North Florida offered free vein screenings to prospective patients at their new office in The Villages. One of the patients who showed up was a familiar face — Belleview resident Jack Roberts. He did not have an appointment; he simply wanted to catch up with his favorite physician.

“Several years ago, Dr. Chandra treated me for a blood clot in my leg, and then he discovered I had blockage in my leg,” says Roberts, 80. “He probably saved my life. I’ve been treated by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic, but I have never met someone as talented, personable, and likeable as Dr. Chandra.”

Trudy Richmond, a resident of Summerfield, was also there. She offered equally glowing praise of Dr. Steven Tieche, another physician at The Vein Center of North Florida. “He did such a great job treating me for varicose veins a few years back. He is very friendly, efficient, and professional.”

It is no surprise that residents of The Villages and surrounding area drive 45 minutes to the practice’s Ocala office to seek treatment for vascular problems. However, that will no longer be necessary thanks to the practice’s additional location at the

Oaks at 138th, which is owned by Munroe Regional Medical Center. “We are opening an office here for the convenience of our patients and to fill a much-needed void,” says Dr. Chandra, who has more than 15 years of experience in his respective field.

Because the practice offers total vascular care under one roof, Dr. Chandra and Dr. Tieche do not have the need to refer patients to other specialists. They can

“He did such a great job treating me for varicose veins a few years back. He is very friendly, efficient, and professional.”

—Trudy Richmond

“He probably saved my life. I’ve been treated by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic, but I have never met someone as talented, personable, and likeable as Dr. Chandra.”

—Jack Roberts

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diagnose and treat arterial and venous problems. They also treat lymphedema, blood clots, and ulcers. In addition, they offer wound care and cosmetic procedures such as sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins and phlebectomy for large varicose veins.

Dr. Chandra is board-certified in General Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Endovascular Surgery, and Phlebology. He has completed 9,544 vascular and endovascular cases.

The Vein Center of North Florida has treated more than 6,000 patients to date. Dr. Tieche is board-certified in anesthesiology and specializes in vein care. The practice is accredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL), which ensures the highest-quality patient care.

The Oaks at 138th is located at 8550 N.E. 138th Lane (Building 400) in Lady Lake.

For more information, call 352.237.1820.

WILDS A WALK ON THE

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DSIDE

Desiring to see lions, tigers, bears, and elephants up close and personal? You can skip the zoo and visit two unique Central Florida sanctuaries that provide humane and compassionate care to some of the world’s most fascinating animals.

PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+MATTHEW GAULIN

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LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS, OH MY… Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS) provides animals with loving care so they can live the remainder of their lives with dignity in a safe and secure setting.

STORY: JAMES COMBS

Unwary of strangers, a 7-year-old plump tiger named Tom Quin happily consumes a big chunk of red meat. Looking at his beautiful coat and watching him eat, few people would realize he was once hairless and severely underweight due to ringworm.

Nearby, a large black bear, Adam, sits in an upright position to the delight of curious onlookers. He was rescued as a cub after his mother was killed by an automobile.

Not far away, two brother leopards, Tafari and Okoki, walk leisurely across an elevated wooden plank. They were rescued from a roadside zoo in Nevada.

Animals that have been abused, abandoned, and neglected have found a loving home at Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS), a 35-acre reserve in Citra, located 17 miles north of Ocala. On this property, live oaks tower overhead, forming a shaded canopy and creating a private, forest-like wonderland for these beautiful animals.

PURR-FECT TREATMENT

EARS was formed in 2001 by Gail Bowen and Jaye Perrett. Gail has spent 30 years as an advocate for big cats and as a mentor for other sanctuary owners throughout the country. Jaye was formerly in charge of the Marion County Sheriff Office’s Animal Cruelty department.

A noticeably missing pinky finger on Gail’s left hand is ultimate proof of her love for animals. She lost it years ago when a chimpanzee she was rescuing bit her as she fed it bananas.

“These scars are my badge of courage,” she says. “The incident did not

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bother me because I still worship animals.”

Although EARS is open to the public, it is not a zoo. It is a sanctuary for previously unwanted animals that, for one reason or another, cannot be released into the wild. “We refer to this place as hospice because the animals come here to live out the rest of their lives,” says Gail, who lives in a home on the property. “Our reason for starting this sanctuary was to provide a loving home and help them overcome the wrongdoings by humans.”

A walking trail winds around the property and leads visitors to the cages of these fascinating animals — 22 tigers, eight bears, three lions, two leopards, and one liger (a cross between a tiger and lion). The sanctuary is also home to dogs, bobcats, cougars, monkeys, deer, and African tortoises.

Many of the animals at EARS were illegally owned by Florida residents and seized by the state. Norman, a Bengal tiger, was severely beaten by its owner and his jaw was dislocated. Without medical treatment, gangrene set in and destroyed half of the tiger’s lower jaw. Others, like Tafari and Odoki, were “picture babies” at roadside zoos where people could hold or touch them as babies and take keepsake photographs.

“You can hold a baby cat until it is 25 pounds, and then you can touch a baby cat up to 40 pounds,” says Sue Nassivera, who has volunteered at EARS for 11 years. “After 40 pounds, the public can no longer have interaction with them so no money can be made. They are either euthanized or brought to sanctuaries like ours.”

One of the greatest joys for volunteers is educating the public about the welfare and well-being of the animals.

“There are only 3,200 tigers remaining in the wild,” Sue says. “Today, there are actually more tigers in captivity because so many in the wild are killed for their fur and skin, which bring a ridiculous amount of money.”

Deceased animals at EARS are treated with respect and given a proper burial. They are so beloved they even get headstones in a cemetery located

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on the property. Look around and you’ll spot headstones for their fallen friends, including Loki (a lion), Mr. Peepers (a marmoset), and Savannah (a tiger).

IT’S NOT PRISON

Sue kneels down on the ground. Teaman, who is on the other side of a fence, comes to greet her. The 700-pound Siberian tiger allows Sue to pet his beautiful fur. He makes a chuffing sound, a tiger’s unique way of saying hello.

How can one of the world’s fiercest predators seem so tame? “We feed our animals seven days a week, and they see people all the time,” Sue says. “They are not hungry so they do not want to hurt us.”

Still, volunteers take precautions to prevent unnecessary attacks. Signs that

read “I can reach you through the fence” remind visitors to view and photograph the animals from safe distances. Attached to each cage is a small lock-down area where the animals go during cleaning or feeding. There is also an eight-foot fence around the perimeter to ensure animals cannot escape the property.

However, these animals aren’t treated like inmates in a prison. Each is allowed to roam freely during the day in large play or “turnout” areas. These areas have pools that serve as drinking holes or pure fun for notorious swimmers such as bears and tigers.

“Some people think these animals should be released back into the wild, which is ridiculous,” Gail says. “In a foreign country they would be hunted and killed for their body parts. Most

of them could not survive in the wild because they’ve been in captivity all their lives due to humans. We do everything possible here so they are healthy, happy, and comfortable.”

Group tours and private tours are available. For more information about tours, please call 407.647.6328. You can also visit the organization’s website at earsinc.net.

EARS operates strictly on donations and does not receive state funding. In 2001, it cost Gale $25,000 to feed just eight tigers.

On April 26, Sue is hosting Hot Cars and Cool Cats, which will feature unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The free event will include raffles, an auction, and great food.

All proceeds will benefit EARS. Call Sue at 352.266.2859.

BIG LOVE Two Tails Ranch in Williston is home to one of Earth’s most magnificent creatures — the elephant.

And at the helm of the brood is a woman on a mission to save these majestic animals from extinction.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

He may not be as influential as Jackson Pollock or Pablo Picasso once were, but Luke’s artwork is just as intriguing. Bunny, who is a bit of a loner, loves flipping tires and standing in rain showers.

Roxy is the oldest — a bit of a grumpy old lady, if you will. However, she loves people, so everyone tends to overlook her obstinacy. And Rajah is certainly not one to be told what to do. If it’s not his idea he refuses to participate, but he will bend just a little for some bread and grain.

These colorful characters live at Two Tails Ranch, a privately owned elephant sanctuary and educational

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facility in Williston. Founded in 1984 by the late Theodore Svertesky and his wife and current owner Patricia Zerbini, the ranch started out as an elephant care facility to board Asian and African elephants needing temporary or permanent housing. But in 2008, Patricia decided to open Two Tails to the public as a way to share her passion and educate people about the elephants’ plight.

A ninth generation exotic animal caretaker, Patricia has worked with all different species of animals both exotic and domestic. Nevertheless, elephants have always been her personal favorite. She has traveled the

world working, training, and consulting on the care and management of both Asian and African elephants.

“I love their intelligence and their social structure,” she says. “I’ll admit I need to work on my people skills, because I actually prefer being around my animals more than humans. With them, there is no beating around the bush.

Animals don’t do something without a reason. People unfortunately do.”

More than 250 elephants have come and gone for various reasons at Two Tails, but there are four residents that never leave: Roxy, Rajah, Bunny, and Luke. Because elephants form tight family bonds, Patricia serves as the

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matriarch of group, which can be fun but also very demanding.

“I’m constantly at their mercy. I never get a day off,” she says. “But I would never trade having them look up to me. I compare them to my four kids. They look at me like I’m their mom and that’s pretty neat.”

Of the four Asian elephants that call Two Tails home, Luke is probably the most popular. He’s easy to spot because he is the one with the perfectly crossed tusks. He also loves to paint, creating works of art with the stroke of his paintbrush. Patricia stumbled upon his hidden talent by accident.

“I played around with him when he was young and would walk him around the property. My eldest sons had an easel in the backyard and Luke would watch them paint with interest. Then one day I offered him a brush and he began swishing it all over the paper. It was kind of a fluke, but now when he does it, it’s like a treat for him.”

Rajah, born at an elephant camp in Bangkok, Thailand, was originally

brought to Two Tails in hopes of starting an Asian elephant breeding program.

Patricia admits Rajah is a bit of a grouch, which reminds her of her father.

“He can’t be bossed around. If you want him to do something, you have to make it his idea,” she says and laughs.

The two females, Bunny and Roxy, are elephants Patricia inherited from her father. Both aren’t too fond of being around other elephants, but Roxy does great with people. That is why she is often picked to work off-site events.

“I do a lot of ceremonial Indian weddings and I usually use Roxy for those since she is the best around people,” Patricia says. “These are my favorite events to do because the amount of respect these elephants receive is phenomenal.”

And respect is vital when it comes to intermingling with Patricia’s elephants.

She encourages visitors to interact with them, but she does not allow human interaction to encroach upon their privacy. Her main purpose is for people to walk away from Two Tails with a deeper sense of admiration and appre-

ciation for these animals.

“A lot of people assume there is a big, beautiful world out there for these elephants, but there isn’t,” Patricia says. “About 40 to 100 elephants are killed every day in Africa for their tusks, and if this keeps happening, elephants could be extinct in 10 years.”

Sanctuaries like Two Tails and other conservation programs are needed to ensure elephants have a future.

“It blows people’s minds when they hear the statistics,” says Patricia, “so it’s most gratifying when people thank me for opening their eyes and ask how they can help. Every little bit counts.”

Two Tails does not receive any state or federal funding. Its only source of income is from visitors, donations, and off site events. Costs for a tour are $20 for adults and $10 for children, but appointments are required. To learn more about Two Tails, call 352.528.6585 or visit www. allaboutelephants.com.

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to providing exceptional plastic surgery and achieving a beautiful, natural-looking result for our patients. We strive to combine surgical expertise, artistic vision, and outstanding service to make your visit with us a positive, rewarding experience. We offer a complete range of modern procedures that include non-surgical and surgical techniques.

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Dr. Nijher is a native New Yorker who now resides in Ocala with his wife who is a pediatrician. He completed his plastic surgery training at the prestigious New York Hospital of Cornell and Columbia Universities and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He provides the latest cutting edge techniques in minimal scar surgery of the breast, face, forehead, and eyes. He also specializes in all facets of body sculpting including but not limited to liposuction, abdominoplasty, and post bariatric body contouring. Dr.Nijher lectures extensively trying to educate patients on plastic surgery and has subsequently become one of the most sought out plastic surgeons in Central Florida.

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Dr. Ahumada specializes in cosmetic and plastic surgery. He is trained in the latest plastic surgical techniques of the face, eyelids, breast and body with emphasis on minimal scarring. This includes non surgical (fillers,botox,fat grafts,sclerotherapy) and surgical procedures (facelift, eyelids, nose, breast,tummy tucks,liposuction). He graduated from Harvard with a degree in biochemistry and completed medical school at the University of Miami. He was awarded many honors while completing Plastic Surgery training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has authored and co-authored papers in plastic surgery. He prefers a personal approach to his patients and will listen to your concerns when suggesting procedures. Dr Ahumada’s family is from South America; in addition to English he is also fluent in Spanish and has an international clientele. He is married and father to three girls; when not seeing patients he enjoys time with his family.

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Featuring

AT YOUR SERVICE

FOR SOME VILLAGERS, THEIR PETS ARE MUCH MORE THAN JUST COMPANIONS Page 6

BOOK CLUB

EXPERIENCE THE ‘LOVE, TREACHERY, AND CIVIL WAR INTRIGUE’ OF THE SCOUNDREL AND THE SPY Page 14 Plus

‘PAWS’ITIVE INTERACTION THESE CUTE AND CUDDLY CANINES TOUCH LIVES ONE VISIT AT A TIME Page 2

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

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CLUB OF THE MONTH STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: PROVIDED

‘PAWS’ITIVE INTERACTION DOGS THAT VISIT LOCAL HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ARE CUTE, CUDDLY, AND CALMING.

It seems like an ordinary day at a local nursing home, but suddenly the facility comes alive. The sounds of paws marching across the tile floor soon follow with conversation and laughter.

As assisted living residents bond with the dogs, smiles form across their faces, a sure sign of inner peace.

On this day, several members of the Canine Therapy Teams of The Villages are making a special visit with their trusty canine friends. Handlers and their dogs make the rounds throughout the facility, interacting with residents who vary in age and are affected by a variety of medical conditions. While residents gently stroke the soft fur of the canines, they excitedly share stories about their past pets.

A little love and affection from man’s best friend appears to be just what the doctor ordered.

Canine Therapy Teams of The Villages provides dogassisted therapy to 14 health care facilities throughout the Tri-County area. The club consists of 37 handler-dog teams who visit facilities

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on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in teams of four.

“Seeing the response of the people we visit is priceless,” says Howard Horwitz, who formed the group in 2009.

“Many people in these facilities do not have relatives or friends who visit them. We offer them exposure to the outside world and bring smiles to their faces when we visit.

We’ve also made many friends throughout the years and even attended one woman’s 105th birthday celebration.”

Canine Therapy Teams of The Villages is represented by a variety of breeds, including standard poodles, shih tzus, basset hounds, greyhounds, and German shepherds.

Howard owns a beautiful and affectionate 8-year-old Bouvier des Flandres named Dice that enjoys the visits as much as the residents of the facilities do.

“As soon as I put on her therapy vest, she walks to the door very excited and ready to go. What other job could a dog do where it is shown so much affection?” says Howard.

Dogs one year or older are eligible to become therapy

dogs; however, they must demonstrate basic obedience skills and pass certain testing criteria. Howard, who is a national tester and observer, administers a series of handling tests and accompanies a dog on at least three visits to health care facilities. This allows him to observe the dog’s temperament and gauge how it gets along with other dogs, as well as strangers. If a dog passes, Howard orders a therapy vest and encourages its owner to register the dog with Therapy Dogs, Inc., a national organization in Wyoming.

“For us, it is an honor to be welcomed into these facilities where people live,” Howard says. “We take that

very seriously. All handlers undergo background checks and always carry updated health records of their dogs when they visit a facility.

Also, we are adamant about handlers showing up to a facility on time. Their teammates — as well as the staff and residents of these facilities — are counting on them. I’m fortunate to have dedicated members who respect that.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL HOWARD AT 352.750.1130.

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meet a villager STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

NOTEWORTHY ACHIEVEMENT: After moving from Ohio to Pennsylvania in 1977, I began working for a natural gas pipeline company. Years later, I was assigned to the Pipeline Integrity Department and was tasked with designing and implementing a system to monitor and ensure all required government inspections were performed completely and correctly.

With the input of others, that system was accepted by the U.S. Department of Transportation and became used company wide. It is still in use today.

FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: My wife and I love to travel. We prefer locations overseas because of the diversity of culture and architecture. We like to interact with local people to see what life is like for them and how they see us.

FAMOUS PEOPLE YOU’VE MET: I sometimes tell the story that I played with Jack Nicklaus. Jack’s father owned a drugstore near Columbus, Ohio.

One day my mother took me to the drugstore in a stroller. I was one and Jack was five. I would throw my rattle and he would pick it up and give it back. My mom said this kept up until Jack became bored and moved away.

TURNING BACK TIME: Would we make different choices and follow different paths? Could we go back with the knowledge we have now, or would we be doomed to do it all over again? I can think of many times in my past that were good, but I am here today because of all those past experiences, both good and bad.

CHARITABLE INVOLVEMENT: I am proud to be a member of the Veterans Memorial Park Honor Guard and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1036. Having vision issues of my own, I am also involved with the Visually Impaired Persons support group in The Villages and the Tri-County Puppy Raisers, which raises puppies from the Southeastern Guide Dog School. It is very fulfilling to see these young pups help visually impaired individuals lead a more active life.

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AT YOUR SERVICE STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

Studies show that loving a pet is good for your health. From decreasing blood pressure to giving you a better outlook on life, owning a pet has many advantages. And those who have disabilities find that pets are not only furry buddies but are also vital lifelines to a normal life. They are the source of independence; they are essential.

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MICKEY, THE CAT IN TRAINING OWNER: KATHY MCDONALD Kathy McDonald of the Village of La Paloma has seen her share of skeptics who question whether or not a cat can really be a service animal. But for more than 18 years, her cat Dusty had the unique ability to warn Kathy when she was going to have an epileptic seizure. He would lick her neck, prompting her to sit down or move out of a public area. The two were featured in national news stories a few years ago about their special bond.

“When you’re about to have a seizure, doctors say there is an aura,” Kathy says, “and that aura has a distinct odor. That’s what the cat smells and how he knows something is wrong.”

Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 15, Kathy controls her disease with medications; however, a seizure occasionally occurs even while taking medication. It was Kathy’s niece, a nurse, who first noticed the cat was reacting before Kathy’s seizures.

Learning Dusty could warn her ahead of time was a boon for Kathy, but when he died last year it was a big loss for Kathy and her husband, Ed. “Dusty went everywhere I went,” Kathy says, “from Washington, D.C. to Niagara Falls to doctor’s offices and restaurants.

He would sit on the front pew of our church and wait while I took communion.

I could even drive with Dusty because his warning gave me enough time to get off the road.” In well-documented cases, cats have been astute enough to warn owners of carbon monoxide poisoning, house fires, earthquakes, and other medical situations like high blood sugar or impending heart attack.

“People don’t pay attention to cats,” Ed says, “but if you watch them, they’re very tuned in to what’s going on around them.”

When Kathy went looking for a new cat to replace Dusty, she was also looking for help with seizure warnings. Her newest

companion, Mickey, came from a breeder in Lake Wales, whose cats exhibit the traits needed to become a service animal.

Ideal service cats are laidback, friendly, and comfortable with loud noises and unpredictable situations.

Mickey was three months old when Kathy began training him herself, which according to the Service Animals Registry of America (SARA) is legitimate. The organization also defines “signaling” as a form of work that an animal can do to qualify it as a service animal.

“Dusty was well behaved and easy to train. He walked on a leash and responded to commands,” Kathy remembers. “I was at Walgreen’s getting ready to pay, and I told Dusty to go sit in the chair. He went right over and sat down. The pharmacist was amazed.”

Now it’s Mickey’s turn to aid his owner.

Like training a toddler, there must be repetition and reward. In the short time she has been working with Mickey, he is doing well at potty training, which will make it easier to take him out. They are also working with a harness and leash, but since Mickey is a kitten, he still resists.

Training isn’t the only challenge that Kathy faces in getting Mickey ready for his role as a service pet. In 2011, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was amended to recognize only dogs as service animals.

“I didn’t know about it until I received a phone call from The Villages telling me I could no longer take Dusty into the recreation centers or to the programs at The Savannah Center,” Kathy says. “I was shocked, but she told me the terms of the ADA had changed and they had to do what the law required.”

Kathy immediately called the ADA office and received the same information. The act reads, “Beginning on March 15, 2011, only dogs are

recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the ADA. A service animal is a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.”

When Kathy asked about a visually impaired woman who had a miniature horse as a service animal, she discovered the woman got a special dispensation. However, that was not an option for Kathy.

The ADA further says, “The ADA regulations define a service animal as any dog or miniature horse that has been individually trained to perform work or tasks for an individual with a disability. The task the service animal performs must be directly related to the person’s disability. Animals used to deter crime, provide comfort, therapy, or companionship alone are not considered service animals under the ADA.” “It was devastating. Now I feel like I can’t go anywhere in The Villages,” Kathy says. “Ed can go with me, of course, but he has no idea if I’m about to have a seizure. He can’t warn me.”

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Sources: Oracle ThinkQuest Education Foundation and Southeastern Guide Dogs; animals.accesspress.org/2011/06/03/servicecats-feline-fur-balls-save-lives/; www.mnn.com/family/pets/stories/how-do-cats-get-certified-as-therapy-animals.

STEVE, THE SERVICE DOG OWNER: VIRGINIA MOHL Virginia Mohl’s dog Steve is more than a beloved pet. Virginia was born with congenital cataracts, a medical condition that refers to a clouding of the lens of the eye at birth. Though the disease is rare, it is hereditary. She and her two siblings have the disease, along with two of her three children and two of her grandchildren.

“I have been legally blind since birth. Back then, they did not do surgery until a child was 3 years old.

Now they do surgery at two months or younger,” Virginia says. “I’m amazed at how far medicine has come. Two of my grandchildren were born with the condition, but they have almost normal vision because they had the lens implanted at a very young age.”

Originally from Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., Virginia was able to work from home as a medical transcriptionist despite being visually impaired. However, two years ago, she injured her good eye, making her vision worse.

“I stood on a stool to read the thermometer and when I got down, I hit myself with the corner of a book. It injured my cornea,” she says.

Never one to let her eye disease deter her, Virginia paid a visit to the Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto, which provides service dogs to The Villages. As someone who belongs to a variety of clubs and is active in her Village of Virginia Trace neighborhood, she needed to find a new four-legged companion that would let her keep her independence. That is when she met Steve, a yellow Labrador retriever.

“I was in school 26 days with Steve.

There were eight students in the class and they took each student and dog on an individual basis,” Virginia says. “The instructors are very dedicated. I cannot

say enough good things about them. The school is just amazing.”

At graduation, Virginia playfully told the crowd she was now taking the leash off her husband, Jerry. Jerry admits, however, there was some apprehension the first time Virginia went out alone with Steve. “But now, I don’t worry at all.

Virginia has always been able to handle herself well, and with the dog, it’s even more so,” Jerry says.

Steve is a very loving and friendly dog that loves to play, but as with most guide dogs, strangers should not try to interact with him when his harness is on.

“He’s working when he has his harness on. People shouldn’t touch,” Virginia says.

“When his harness is off, he’s just a dog.

People don’t know what it means when I say he’s a working dog.”

Even to this day, Virginia remains amazed at the skill and insight of her dog.

He responds to 40 commands. “In a store when I tell him to find the counter, he’ll walk me right up to the register, or if I tell him to find the door in a restaurant, he takes me right there.”

Marcie Davis, cofounder of International Assistance Dog Week, has her own guide dog named Whistle. “I always thought I was pretty independent until I got a service dog. I didn’t realize what I was missing, and my husband said he didn’t realize how it would change his life, too.”

Marcie has been paraplegic for more than 30 years and has had Whistle for the past 13 years. She coauthored the book Working Like Dogs: The Service Dog Guidebook with Melissa Bunnel. The book is a resource for those considering getting a guide dog or for owners. It has checklists, practical tips, and personal stories from individuals with service dogs.

“There is no regulatory agency for service animals, although there is an organization called Assistance Dogs International that is comprised of all the service dog training organizations,” Marcie says. “When you want a service dog, be sure the trainer is a member of this organization.”

DID YOU KNOW? • It takes $60,000 to train one guide dog.

• The Guide Dog Foundation provides service dogs to legally blind persons at no charge.

• The Seeing Eye is the original name of the Guide Dog Foundation, an international federation.

• Southeastern Guide Dogs provides dogs for The Villages, is accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation in Reading, England, and is a member of the Council of U.S. Dog Guide Schools.

The school has provided more than 2,800 guide dogs since 1982.

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book club STORY: KATHY PORTER

THE SCOUNDREL AND THE SPY LOVE, TREACHERY, AND CIVIL WAR INTRIGUE

In February, 74 Bookworm members were pleased to once again host an author. Self-confessed history buff John H. Frye transported us to Richmond, Va., at the start of the American Civil War, the setting of his novel.

Newly ordained Presbyterian minister Andrew Strickler travels to Richmond to give solace to soldiers about to enter battle and minister to the wounded. His life changes dramatically when he is accused of spying for the Union.

Using historical photographs supplied by the Valentine Richmond History Center, Frye took us on a tour of Richmond and delighted us with pictures of the reallife players who figured prominently in the novel alongside the story’s fictional characters.

The picture of Confederate General John H. Winder depicted a severe and austere man. Winder, a West Point graduate, was in charge of the military prisons, including Castle Thunder, where Strickler was imprisoned, and the infamous Andersonville Prison, where nearly 13,000 Union soldiers died.

Winder was severely criticized for the deplorable conditions in the prisons.

The pictures of Elizabeth Van Lew, one of the most successful and daring spies during the American Civil War, elicited a great deal of discussion. We were fortunate to have with us Don Wyman, who spent five years writing a biography of Van Lew. The group found her fascinating, and they were happy to

THE NEXT MEETING

The Bookworm Book Club will meet April 15 to discuss Mornings in Jenin by Susan Abulhawa. Club chair Kathy Porter can be contacted by phone at 352.259.8196 or email at kathymporter@comcast.net.

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Carefully researched and with memorable characters, this story of the Civil War is well written, and I’m looking forward to the sequel.”

—Linda Ferens Caroline

learn that the nickname she earned of “Crazy Bet” was just an act.

Frye described how his characters “talk to him” and sometimes take more prominence in the story than what he originally expected. One of his favorite characters in the novel is Isaac the sutler, a civilian merchant who sells wares to the soldiers. When asked who his favorite author was, Frye was quick to praise Kent Haruf.

Members lauded Frye for his use of locations and dates as his chapter headings.

They felt it made it much easier to follow the sequence of events. However, members were disappointed in the abrupt ending and asked if that was deliberately done to pave the way for a sequel. Frye said indeed it was and members asked that he please finish it soon.

About the Author John H. Frye was born in Birmingham, Ala., to a family with southern heritage but with roots that go back to New England prior to the Civil War. He grew up in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. A graduate of Davidson College and Vanderbilt School of Law, he practiced law in Washington, D.C. He became a judge at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and later at the Occupational Safety and Health Commission.

He has received a number of awards for his legal service.

Frye first discovered that he wanted to write in high school but it was not until he reached his sixties that he fulfilled his dream. He has published two other Civil War era novels: With God on Their Side and The Secessionist. He is presently hard at work on the sequel to The Scoundrel and the Spy. Frye and his wife, Ethel, reside in Frederick, Md., and Reedville, Va.

HARDCOVER BESTSELLERS AS OF MARCH 14

1. FIELD OF PREY by: John Sandford

2. MISSING YOU by: Harlan Coben

3. PRINCE LESTAT by: Anne Rice

4. NIGHT BROKEN by: Patricia Briggs

5. THE GOLDFINCH by: Donna Tartt

WHAT CLUB MEMBERS THOUGHT Having lived in Richmond, Va., I was quickly drawn into the story with its Civil War setting and its reference to familiar streets, historical places, and nearby towns. In addition, the inclusion of spies denoted an element of mystery and intrigue as the story unfolded and the actual spy was discovered.

What a surprise to the reader when this was revealed! A great read for a Civil War enthusiast.

Gail Feind Pennecamp

“The Scoundrel and the Spy” is a book that only the author’s mother could love. Unbelievable characters, weak plot, a book you can race through in a few hours because you aren’t afraid of missing anything interesting. This is the kind of book that makes you come to book club meetings to find out if anybody actually enjoyed it.

Jacque Schrock Pennecamp

6. SKIN GAME I was very impressed with John Frye’s ability to write realistic dialogue. I think it would be extremely difficult to do dialects.

Leslie Tate Hadley

What a delightful morning spent with guest author John H. Frye, discussing his historically accurate novel “The Scoundrel and the Spy.” John began with an in-depth portrait of his characters coupled with a presentation of photos from the Civil War era. As always, the questions asked by club members led to much discussion of related topics.

Mary Jo Johnson Village of Ashland

A totally new view of the Civil War, but I didn’t really enjoy any characters except Andrew and “Crazy Bet.”

Marilyn Fleming Sanibel

by: Jim Butcher

7. THE INVENTION OF WINGS by: Sue Monk Kidd

8. POWER PLAY by: Danielle Steel

9. THE KING by: J. R. Ward

10. PRIVATE L.A. by: James Patterson

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Animals

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city series STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”

UMATILLA NATURE’S HOMETOWN STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

VITAL STATS CURRENT POPULATION: 3,533 (2012) SIZE: 3 square miles FOUNDED: 1856 INCORPORATED: 1904 PUBLIC OFFICIALS MAYOR: Laura Kelley Wright CITY MANAGER: Glen A. Irby POLICE CHIEF: Adam Bolton FIRE CHIEF: Mike Vitta

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OCALA FOREST

ALEXANDER SPRINGS

42

19 North Twin Lake

South Twin Lake Lake Cooley

Lake Owen

LAKE GIBSON

SOUTH TWIN LAKE

CADWELL PARK

Crescent Lake

North Lake Community Park

450

East Lake

450

Lake Mary Umatilla Municipal Airport

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UMATILLA Lake Umatilla HISTORICAL MUSEUM Lake

Whitcomb

THE MASON JAR 450

Lake Blanchester

44A

Lake Dalhousie

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city series // UMATILLA STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”

Most people cruise through Umatilla on the way to the Ocala National Forest or Alexander Springs without stopping. Venture off the State Road 19 corridor, though, and you will find a unique town with lots of civic pride and a commitment to nature.

U

matilla may be tiny but ask anyone in North Lake County about growing up there and they’ll recall special times playing outdoors with friends, helping their hard-working parents in family businesses, and even watching seaplanes land on Lake Umatilla.

“The only real change is seeing the number of people who come through,” says Keri Key Greer, who grew up in Umatilla and owns The Mason Jar, a restaurant her parents started in 1979. “Umatilla retains that old-time feeling with salt-of-the-earth kind of people.”

Retired school teacher Ann Martin Williams moved to Umatilla with her parents in 1945 and attended the small schoolhouse that later became the Umatilla Historical Museum, which she helped organize. She remembers when railroad tracks ran down the middle of Central Avenue, also known as State Road 19. “Cars parked at an angle on the west side of the tracks, and the road ran both north and south on the east side,” she says.

She’s seen a few other changes, too. “We used to have one stoplight; now we have two,” she says with a laugh. “Seriously, the biggest change has been the size of the schools. When I taught, there were 345 students in grades one through 12. Now there are more students than that just in the elementary school alone.”

Umatilla’s popularity stems from easy access to some of Florida’s most pristine natural environments. Known as the southern gateway city into the Ocala National Forest, Umatilla is only a stone’s throw from the popular Alexander Springs. Avid nature seekers have already discovered that the town’s many family-owned restaurants are great places to stop either before or after a day on the water or a hike along one of the area’s trails, including a portion of the Florida National Scenic Trail.

NOT THE FIRST Founded in 1856 by Nathan J. Trowell, Umatilla is actually the second American city with the unique Native American name that means “laughing waters.” The first, for which the Floridian settlers named it, is in Oregon. No one quite knows for sure why that name was selected, but the area’s many lakes sparkling with sunshine probably had something to do with the choice.

Less than 30 years later, the first railroad — the St. Johns and Lake Eustis line — ran

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from Astor to Eustis through the settlement and the area experienced its first real growth when settlers began dividing their properties and selling lots. By 1900, the town had a hotel, grocery store, post office, blacksmith shop, citrus packing house, and four churches. The main industries were cattle and citrus farming, and today, many parts of Umatilla still reflect the rural landscape with wide-open spaces and curvy country roads.

BEAR COUNTRY This area has the highest density of bears in the state, so it’s not surprising that Umatilla has hosted the Florida Black Bear and Wildlife Conservation Festival for 15 years. Held each October in Cadwell Park, the festival promotes safe coexistence between humans and all wildlife, but especially the black bear. The free event is fun and educational at the same time.

ASTOR - THE JEWEL OF THE ST. JOHNS RIVER

NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY Providing more than 60 miles of exploration by car, the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway — a National Scenic Byway — is a network of scenic roads through the heart of the Ocala National Forest. Although the route is primarily along State Road 40, it also includes State Road 19 to Alexander Springs.

The byway connects most of the national forest’s major recreation areas and springs.

The tiny community of Astor is only 19 miles from Umatilla, and it’s the destination for many folks driving through Umatilla who want to launch boats on the St. Johns River. Lake County’s northernmost town is home to the Blackwater Inn Restaurant and Lounge, where you will feel as if you are on a riverboat overlooking the St. Johns. And just in case you want to cruise the St. Johns and its tributaries before or after your meal, book a scenic boat tour with Captain Ernie right at the Blackwater Inn dock.

Astor may seem like just a small river town now, but it has quite an illustrious history. Its biggest claim to fame is possibly its connection to the RMS Titanic that sank in 1912.

New York’s wealthy Astor family bought 12,000 acres of land on the river in 1874 where William Astor Jr. established and endowed the town with a school, botanical garden, church, and a free cemetery. He eventually built a hotel and a railroad.

When William died in 1892, his son John Jacob Astor IV inherited his father’s estate and continued to promote the family’s business interests in Florida.

However, when John Jacob Astor went down with the Titanic, his heir was not interested in continuing the family’s Florida enterprises.

This, along with a decline in steamboat travel, was the end of the town’s prominence. By 1928, the hotel had burned and the railroad was abandoned.

LAKE’S TROPICAL SETTING The ever-popular Alexander Springs is considered one of Florida’s best springs for visitors because of its broad and naturally sloped spring pool and the constant 72-degree water. It truly is a natural water park where visitors come to picnic, swim, and play in the extraordinarily clear water. The recreation area feels almost tropical with its dense forest of maples, sweetgums, and cabbage palms.

UMATILLA SMASH Forget all those jokes about old-time moonshiners hiding out in the Ocala National Forest. It’s all out in the open at Florida Farm Distillery just outside Umatilla and across the highway from the forest. Dick and Marty Waters were looking for a way to save their farm a few years ago when they hit upon the idea to create a microdistillery. Today, their Palm Ridge Reserve whiskey is served at some of Florida’s most elegant eateries, and visitors can see the distilling process firsthand on the monthly tours — all legal, of course. Watch the Palm Ridge website for tour dates. Reservations are required.

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On the

scene THE TO-DO LIST SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT OUT+ABOUT HI, SOCIETY!

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On the scene // the to-do list

APRIL 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

APRIL 6

EVENTS APRIL 5–6

61ST ANNUAL SAIL BOAT REGATTA The oldest regatta in the state wil prove to be a fun weekend for the whole family. Expect inland sailing at its best with outstanding food and music on the dock Saturday night.

Location: Mount Dora Yacht Club CONTACT: www.mountdorayachtclub. com or 352.383.3188

APRIL 4–5

CENTRAL FLORIDA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Friday night introduces the dragon boat teams and includes an “Awaking the Dragon” ceremony. On Saturday starting at 9a.m., watch dragon boat races with teams from the local area, as well as from around the country.

Expect live entertainment all day, as well as food vendors. Location: Wooton Park. Gate fee: $3/adult and $2/child under 3 years old. CONTACT: www.cfdragonboat.org

APRIL 5

NINTH ANNUAL WOMEN’S DAY CONFERENCE The day will consist of many fun activities such as a fashion show, guided scenic motorcycle rides, tech talks, informative speakers, door prizes, specialty vendors, and unique food. The conference is for any women who ride motorcycles or is an enthusiast. A breakfast and lunch will be included in the day’s activities. Cost: $35. Location: Gator Harley-Davidson in Leesburg.

CONTACT: www.gatorharley.com

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FIFTH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF LIFE GALA

APRIL 5

LADIES FASHION SHOW & TEA It’s tea time! The show wil feature fashions by Cool Cuts Hot Tans Salon & Boutique in Sorrento. Guest speaker is Sara Fisher with Emily’s Happy Feet. Please bring a pair of slippers to donate. Raffles, door prizes, and more!

From noon to 2:30p.m., and the cost is $35. CONTACT: 352.383.8801

Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation is proud to host this year’s annual Celebration of Life Gala at The Westin in Lake Mary. Doors open at 4:30p.m. and dinner will be served at 5:30p.m. with entertainment immediately following with the band Hot Property.

APRIL 12

FINDING DORA DRAWDY COCKTAIL FARE & FASHION SHOW Mount Dora’s original “diva,” Dora Drawdy, is honored with this fundraiser to assist Lake County women with mammogram screenings for breast cancer. Starts at 4p.m at Lakeside Inn. Tickets: $20. CONTACT: 352.735.1191

CONTACT: 352.253.3270

Street, directly behind the library. All games and the egg hunts begin at 10a.m. and run until 12:30p.m. Free admission. CONTACT: 352.430.0451

APRIL 26 APRIL 12

PLANES, TRAINS & BBQ Held at Wooton Park, the Planes, Trains & BBQ event wil feature an air show, seaplane and train rides, a statesanctioned barbecue competition, a car show, and musical entertainment throughout the day. The air show offers aerial acrobatics with planes “jumping” through rings and pilots performing precision acrobatics and free-fall nosedives. Parking garage wil be open on the corner of Maud Street and Sinclair Avenue. Free parking and admission. CONTACT: 352.742.6402

TAVARES SPRING SEAPLANE FLY-IN Seaplanes of every size and description fly in from all over the country. Watch various flying competitions such as spot landing and “bomb” drop. In conjunction with the Tavares Seaplane Fly-In, Tavares wil host an event celebrating 100 years of seaplanes in the city. The event wil include historical exhibits and memorabilia, historical reenactors, and a flying demonstration by a typical seaplane of that era. 9a.m. to 5p.m. at Wooton Park. Free admission.

CONTACT: 352.742.6176

APRIL 26 APRIL 12

THE TOWN OF LADY LAKE ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT The Town of Lady Lake is hosting its annual Easter egg hunt at the junior baseball field located on Hermosa

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GALA AUCTION Hosted by the Lake-Sumter State College Foundation at the Savannah Center in The Vil ages, this year’s event, “Sunset at South Beach,” wil feature a cocktail reception, silent

auction, gourmet dinner, and live auction. The live and silent auctions wil include more than 350 items donated by supportive businesses and individuals, including artwork, vacation packages, sporting event tickets, jewelry, theme park passes, and gift certificates. Tickets cost $125.

CONTACT: 352.365.3518

a young nurse and a secretive Frenchman who is being courted for a dangerous military mission.

Moonlight Players Warehouse Theatre, 732 B W. Montrose St., Clermont. CONTACT: 352.319.1116

MARCH 21–APRIL 6

SWEENEY TODD This chilling, suspenseful, heartpounding masterpiece of murderous barbarism and culinary crime tells the infamous tale of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. His thirst for blood soon expands to include his unfortunate customers, while the resourceful pie shop proprietress soon has the people of London lining up in droves with her mysterious new meat pie recipe. Melon Patch Theatre, 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg.

CONTACT: 352.787.3013 or info@ melonpatch.org

MAY 2–3

SOUTH LAKE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL The festival wil be two days of family fun. On Friday, enjoy food and entertainment. The dragon boat races begin Saturday morning. The free event wil also include vendors, family fun zones, and a health fair.

Make sure to bring lawn chairs.

Proceeds benefit New Beginnings of Lake County and other local charities.

CONTACT: 352.617.8788

MUSIC+THEATRE MARCH 14–APRIL 16

SOUTH PACIFIC On a South Pacific island during World War II, love blooms between

MARCH 28–APRIL 20

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS Nick is a single guy from New Jersey who has dinner every Sunday with all four of his Italian grandparents.

When he’s offered a dream job in Seattle, his grandparents do their best to give him a reason to stay. This is an endearing comedy guaranteed to produce laughter and perhaps even a lump in the throat. The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse, 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora.

CONTACT: 352.383.3133 or www. icehousetheatre.com

APRIL 5–13

GODSPELL Presented by the Lake Sumter State College Theatre Arts Society, this two-hour musical is about the Gospel according to St. Matthew acted out by 10 teenagers. At the Paul P. Wil iams Fine Arts Center in Leesburg. Tickets: $5. CONTACT: 352.365.3580

APRIL 12

CFA LIVE PRESENTS… SONGWRITER’S NIGHT An intimate evening of hearing songwriters tell their stories and perform their songs. Get an inside view of a conversation between these artists in an acoustic setting. Live on stage at the Leesburg Center for the Arts at 7p.m.; tickets are only $10 each.

CONTACT: 352.365.0232

APRIL 18

VOICEPLAY As seen on Season 4 of NBC’s “The Sing-Off,” VoicePlay is unlike any theatrical experience available today, recreating the orchestrated sound of an entire musical production with nothing but the human voice. What began as a street corner barbershop act has now evolved into an internationally acclaimed touring sensation. Tickets: $15 for general admission; $20 for VIP. Location: Mount Dora Community Building, 520 N. Baker St. Time: 7:30p.m. CONTACT: 352.735.7183

APRIL 18–MAY 11

BOEING BOEING A classic farce written by French playwright Marc Camoletti tells the story of Bernard, a self-styled

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EDITOR’S PICK

playboy, and his three fiancées who are all airline attendants. Due to a scheduling mishap, they all end up in Paris on the same night.

Bay Street Players at the Historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay Street, Eustis. CONTACT: 352.357.7777

APRIL 25–MAY 25

HAIRSPRAY It’s 1962, and the lovable plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad has only one desire — to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star.

She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network, all without denting her ‘do! Tickets: $29 ($25 students/seniors; $12 for children 12 and under).

Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. CONTACT: 407.877.4736 or www. gardentheatre.org

APRIL 27–MAY 4

ALMOST, MAINE Composed of nine short plays that explore love and loss in a remote, mythical place called Almost, Maine. The New York Times called it a comedy that “explores the sudden thunderclap of love and the scorched earth that sometimes follows.” Bay Street Players at the Historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. CONTACT: 352.357.7777

FESTIVALS/FAIRS APRIL 5–6 AND 12–13

TIMBERLINE FARM BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL Admission includes butterfly and spring garden, hayrides, train rides, face painting, farm animals, corncrib, blacksmith shop, duck race, children’s games, horse shoes, puppet shows, a country store, and live music. Tickets: $8 for adults; $7 for seniors/military; $6 for students. Saturdays from 10a.m. to 6p.m.; Sundays from noon to 6p.m. Location: 3200 S.E. 115th St., Belleview. CONTACT: 352.454.4113

APRIL 27

DOWNTOWN “GOT KIDS” FESTIVAL Sponsored by Clermont Downtown Partnership, City of Clermont, Lake County, and Lake Apopka Natural Gas, the event wil offer a showcase of kid-friendly vendors. Other activities include the eighth annual Sidewalk Chalk art contest, entertainment, and festival foods. Free parking and admission. From 9a.m. to 2p.m. on Montrose Street in historic Downtown Clermont. CONTACT: 352.406.0904

ART/HISTORY EXHIBITS MARCH 7–APRIL 25

EQUUS AND EARTH EXPRESSIONS Karlene McConnell’s abstract acrylic landscapes set the scene for Mindy Colton’s unique equestrian sculptures.

McConnell, a former art teacher and museum curator, creates landscape abstractions. Colton’s horses are unique figurative abstractions with a

APRIL 24–27

18TH ANNUAL LEESBURG BIKEFEST Lake County comes alive with the roar of motorcycles from all over the country for one of the country’s largest three-day bikefests. More than 200,000 people come to enjoy the vendors, demonstrations, contests, food, beer and wine, and live entertainment. This event is open to motorcyclist and enthusiasts of all kinds. It’s a non-stop party throughout the streets of Leesburg.

CONTACT: WWW.LEESBURGBIKEFEST.COM

decidedly expressionistic aesthetic.

Opening reception is March 14 from 6 to 8p.m. Location: Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave. CONTACT: 352.383.0880

MAY 2–JUNE

“MAGNIFIED” SCULPTURE Joshua Almond works primarily in wood to create abstract sculptural landscapes. This installation takes you into a world of gigantic microorganisms, which invoke a feeling of entering an uninhabited landscape.

Opening reception is May 2 from 6 to 8p.m. Location: Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave. CONTACT: 352.383.0880

APRIL 5

“ABOVE PAR FOR ANIMALS” GOLF BALL DROP Numbered golf balls will again cascade from the ReMax Premier Realty hot air balloon over the grounds of the George Nahas Chevrolet dealership in Wildwood, all to help rescued animals in need within Sumter County. The golf ball drop returns with greater grand prizes and more festivities such as the addition of a live auction, including exciting trips and rare autographed memorabilia from The Beatles, Jimmy Buffet, Neil Diamond, Arnold Palmer, Willie Mays, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Charles Schulz, and Leroy Neiman. The three closest golf balls in or nearest to the main hole will be awarded valuable prizes exceeding $2,500. Proceeds raised will fund programs of the Humane Society/SPCA of Sumter County. From 10a.m. to 2p.m.

CONTACT: 352.793.9117

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On the scene // the to-do list

INCONCERT TICKETMASTER 800.745.3000 TICKETMASTER.COM Dates are subject to change without notice so please call ahead to confirm venue listings DATE

ARTIST

VENUE

04/06 04/06 04/07 04/09 04/11 04/12 04/12 04/12 04/12 04/12 04/13 04/14 04/15 04/15 04/16 04/16 04/17 04/17 04/18 04/18 04/18 04/18 04/18 04/19 04/19 04/19 04/19 04/19 04/20 04/21 04/24 04/24 04/24 04/24 04/25 04/25 04/25 04/26 04/26 04/26 04/27 04/27 04/27 04/28 04/30 05/01 05/02 05/03 05/04 05/05

Paul Revere & The Raiders “Stars On Ice” The Wonder Years Kadavar Anvil Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone Janie Fricke Lynyrd Skynyrd Mike Epps “WJRR’s Earthday Birthday” Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson “Metal Alliance Tour” Kevin Johnson Wishbone Ash Kevin Johnson Tech N9ne The Everymen The Grass Roots Joe Rogan Kevin Johnson Slaughterhouse Bad Veins The Grass Roots Griz Kool & The Gang Manchester Orchestra The Grass Roots Cloud Nothings Darius Rucker “Florida Music Festival” Iced Earth Rehab “Florida Music Festival” Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone Tycho “Florida Music Festival” Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone Simon Patterson Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone Rob Thomas The Used Capture The Crown Black Label Society Mogwai Christina Perri Dick Dale Boz Scaggs Houndmouth

Epcot Center Amway Center The Beacham Backbooth Bombshells Tavern Trilogy Orlando Orange Blossom Opry Universal Studios Citywalk Hard Rock Cafe / Hard Rock Live Central Florida Fairgrounds Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder The Beacham Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder Plaza Live Orlando Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder Plaza Live Orlando Backbooth America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Hard Rock Cafe / Hard Rock Live Disney Cruise Line - Disney Wonder The Social Will’s Pub America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Firestone Live Universal Orlando Resort Music Plaza Stage House Of Blues America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center The Social CFE Arena Various Venues House Of Blues Hoddies Saloon And Grill Various Venues America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center The Beacham Various Venues America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Firestone Live America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Hard Rock Cafe / Hard Rock Live House Of Blues The Social House Of Blues The Beacham House Of Blues Plaza Live Orlando Hard Rock Cafe / Hard Rock Live The Social

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the swing

Elevate your golf game at El CampĂŠon and Las Colinas.

On the scene // social spotlight Where you want to be

ALL ABOARD! STORY: JAMES COMBS

Bring your appetite and enjoy thrilling sights at the seventh annual Planes, Trains, & BBQ festival in downtown Tavares.

Tavares has certainly soared high since recognizing its potential as an aviation hot spot and becoming “America’s Seaplane City.” On average, more than 200 seaplane pilots land at the Tavares Seaplane Base each month to fuel their aircraft and even enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the downtown area’s restaurants.

However, some may not be aware of the fun-filled festivals that city leaders have organized to attract locals and tourists alike to Tavares. One of the premier festivals is Planes, Trains, & BBQ, which will be held April 12 in Wooton Park.

There is no shortage of things to

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do and see. Hop aboard the Orange Blossom Cannonball and experience a re-enactment of a train robbery.

Gaze skyward and see dazzling air show displays. Sink your teeth into mouthwatering barbecue. Take a walk down memory lane and revel in nostalgia as you admire the classic cars on display throughout Main Street.

“This is one of the most unique events in Lake County,” says Bill Neron, director of economic development for the City of Tavares. “It is a fun event for the entire family because there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Twists and turns The U.S. Special Ops Parachute Team will drop in — literally — to kick off the festivities. While the national anthem is playing, Para-Commandos will perform a precision freefall demonstration before parachuting into Wooton Park.

One of the highlights of the event is the four-act air shows, which will be held at 11a.m. and 1p.m. Expect to see jaws drop as pilots perform a series of high-flying aerobatic maneuvers such as loops, snap rolls, and hammerheads. This year’s star-studded lineup of pilots includes John Black, an Air Force veteran who

will fly his red, white, and blue 8KCAB Super Decathlon at speeds up to 132 miles per hour. Patty Wagstaff, the first woman to win the title of U.S. National Aerobatic champion, will perform hardcore aerobatics in her Extra 300 RC plane.

Paul Schulten, who has more than 20,000 hours of flight time since age 19, will fly his colorful Eagle that sports a steel frame fuselage. Navy veteran and competitive air racer Gene McNeely will fly his T6 plane.

“The air show is truly fantastic,” Bill says. “Each pilot will perform to his or her own music that is playing over the loud speaker system. Some will have smoke

coming out the back of their planes so spectators can follow their aerobatics.”

Festival-goers can also ride the Orange Blossom Cannonball and be a part of movie history while witnessing a simulated train robbery. During the 45-minute train ride, robbers arrive on horseback and engage in a replicated shootout with local deputies.

Some may recognize this train, as it has made appearances in movies such as “True Grit,” “3:10 to Yuma,” and “Rosewood.”

Do not be surprised if your appetite is roused as the smell of barbecue wafts through the air. The event is hosting a Florida Barbeque sanctioned competition,

where as many as 30 teams will compete in the following categories: chicken, ribs, pork, and brisket. Some of the competitors are also vendors, allowing patrons to enjoy the taste and tenderness of their meat. If you’re lucky, competitors may provide helpful hints regarding their sauces, fuel types, and cooking styles. An awards ceremony will be held at 5p.m. to recognize the winning teams.

Other highlights include a classic car display on Main Street and live jazz and blues music in Wooton Park.

For more information, visit tavares.org.

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On the scene // out+about A travel companion for points near and far

CANINE AMBASSADORS Hotels around the country are providing a different sort of amenity — ones with four legs — to help you feel right at home.

STORY: PATTI NICKELL

I

am not the kind of travel writer who routinely gets involved with a handsome male while on a trip.

I mean, what’s in it for me? A quick flirtation and it’s over. Or worse, I give my heart and then we go our separate ways. Nope, just not worth it.

This time, however, it was different.

When I gazed into his warm brown eyes, I was hooked. I wasn’t even offended when he nuzzled my neck at our first meeting, despite him being accompanied by a female companion, who clearly seemed to adore him. Just what kind of man was he? What kind of man-stealing woman was I? Before you judge me too harshly, I should reveal that my crush is of the canine variety. Beau, a 9-yearold Labrador retriever, and his

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“companion” Mavis, a 12-year-old Golden/Lab cross, are stellar members of the Fairmont Hotel Corporation’s Canine Ambassadors Program.

The program began in 2001 at the Vancouver Waterfront Hotel and moved the following year to the Hotel Vancouver. Today, ambassadors brighten up hotel life at 10 Fairmont properties worldwide. From Boston’s Copley Plaza, where Catie, a Black Lab, is in charge, to the Mount Kenya Safari Club, where Labrador/Ridgeback sisters Tusker and Grammy oversee operations, the pooches are the Fairmont’s most popular employees.

At the Hotel Vancouver, Beau and Mavis roam the halls and corridors, accepting dog biscuits and ear rubs from guests and employees alike.

Darren Klingbeil, the Fairmont Gold concierge and pet parent to Mavis, says she loves to hang out in the lobby and greet guests.

“Mavis eases the loneliness of those traveling without their own pets,” says Klingbeil.

Beau, on the other hand, prefers a bit more action, according to his owner and hotel concierge Debbie Wild. He accompanies guests on walks around the waterfront and to Stanley Park.

“Beau has learned which hotels and shops stock dog cookies, and he will drag guests there,” says Wild, adding that he also loves the Gucci and Louis Vuitton shops in the hotel lobby as they always have cookies on hand.

To be selected as a Canine

SEEING VANCOUVER FROM A DOG’S VIEW • Take the Food Truck Tour. Until recently, Vancouver food cart vendors were limited to selling popcorn, hot dogs, and chestnuts.

Times have changed, and now the colorful carts offer everything from fresh seafood to chocolate chili cookies. A great way to sample the fare is to take a two-hour Vancouver Foodie Tour ($49; foodietours. ca) that stops at five different carts. From Taco Fino to Soho Road Naan Kebab to Mom’s Grilled Cheese, take a bite out of Vancouver.

PHOTOS: CANINE AMBASSADORS AND VANCOUVER TOURISM

• Walk Stanley Park. This one gets five Dog Biscuits from Beau. A day exploring the park — one of North America’s largest urban green spaces — can include everything from old growth forest and the welcoming sands of Third Beach to decorated totem poles, as well as Prospect Point Lighthouse and the Vancouver Aquarium.

Ambassador, dogs must have some sort of service training — most are recruited from the Guide Dogs for the Blind program.

“We need to be sure they will be comfortable interacting with our guests,” says Wild, “because they pretty much have free rein of the hotel with the exception of guest rooms and of course, the restaurants.”

Once a dog has been vetted — such as the newest ambassador Stanley at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge — he or she becomes something of a celebrity. The dogs have email addresses and Facebook pages and frequently receive gifts from departing guests who have come to know and love them.

Mavis and Beau have more than

PHOTO ABOVE BY JENN NELSON

If you are looking for something to do in Vancouver, Mavis and Beau suggest the following:

PATTI NICKELL

• Explore one of Vancouver’s colorful neighborhoods. Gastown, with its streetlights and brick-paved streets, is the city’s oldest (1867) and now one of its hippest ‘hoods. Heritage buildings house designer stores, cool bars, and hot restaurants. Granville Island buzzes with activity from dawn to dusk. Select produce at the Public Market, sample house-made beer at Granville Island Brewing Company, or take in a performance at the Arts Club Theater. Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinese neighborhoods in North America, is a colorful mélange of sights, sounds, and smells. You can do everything from indulging in traditional dim sum to wandering through Dr. SunYat Sen Classical Garden, the first of its kind outside China.

For more information, visit tourismvancouver.com.

their share of perks. How many of their canine brethren have posed in the Olympic bobsled, hung out with Celine Dion’s son while she rehearsed for a concert, or can claim to be BFFs with Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan’s pup Junior?

They have even discovered that politicians sometimes prefer kissing dogs to babies.

“When Joe Biden was here for the Olympics, he wouldn’t go to his room until he gave Beau and Mavis their evening pat and cookie,” says Wild.

In true ambassadorial fashion, the dogs remain bipartisan. They’ll take the affection (and the cookies) from whomever gives it.

Trip

TIP

PET TRAVEL

If you are thinking about traveling to Canada with your own dog, there is no quarantine, although you will need to bring along his/her vaccination papers. For $50 a day at the Hotel Vancouver, your dog will be provided with a bed, two bowls, a map of dog-friendly parks, and a bag of treats, personally approved by Beau and Mavis. The hotel recommends that you not leave your dog unattended.

About the writer

Patti Nickell is the travel writer for the Lexington Herald-Leader, journeying to 106 countries and six continents in search of a good yarn. Despite what she says about remaining detached, she confesses that Beau and Mavis stole her heart.

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On the scene // Hi, society!

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2014

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL In anticipation of the 39th annual Mount Dora Arts Festival, art lovers attended a kickoff party at United Southern Bank in Mount Dora. The party was an opportunity to meet some of the festival’s featured artists and preview their beautiful work. More than 300,000 people regularly attend the festival, which is held in downtown Mount Dora. The festival ranked No. 13 on the “America’s Best Art Fair” list, compiled by ArtFairCalendar.com.

PAT KEMP, LISA CHENEY, DANIELLE CROXALL, AND BELEN HIDEROA

KATE AND GREG LEWIS, SHERRY LONG, ED CLEMENT, AND MARY JOHNSON HELEN AVALON

JANE HICKEY WITH YVONNE AND BILLY SPIKES

KATE CARNEY

PHOTOS: RON VANDEVANDER

LYNN JONES AND TOM ANDERSON

“United Southern Bank is pleased to host the 39th annual Mount Dora Arts Festival Kickoff Party. We’re proud to support the arts and the artists through this event.”

—Lynne Winker

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On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2014

HOW SWEET Haley Gerig, owner of Haley’s Comet Clothing, organized the second annual Sweet Treats for a Cause Fashion Show. The event, which was held at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora, raised scholarship money to help financially disadvantaged students enroll in their school’s art programs. Models walked the runway in clothes donated by local companies such as Frugals Vintage Boutique and Salon, Another Look Consignment Boutique, and Trueman’s Fine Men’s Clothing.

JENNIFER WOLFE AND HEATHER TATOM

AVA, HAYS, AND OLIVA GINN, WITH MAX AND BEN PEACH PHOTOS: RON VANDEVANDER

SIENNA KENNEDY AND PEYTON RESSLER

TOM HOFMEISTER, MISSY ZILER, AND “WOOLF”

“The sweet part isn’t the treats; it is the money that is raised for the arts, which enhances our community.”

—Claudia Virga

Rain or shine, good is always there.

I don’t wait for something bad to happen to do something good. That’s why I offer things like free coverage checkups and rewards for safe driving. I’m here to help you live the good life every single day.

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On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2013

FASHIONABLE AND FUN The Fashion Designers Showcase and Competition was held at Wooton Park in downtown Tavares. Presented by Bella Faire and the Tavares Chamber of Commerce, the event featured designers from St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Fort Lauderdale.

Students enrolled in Lake Tech’s cosmetology program also presented a hair show. A portion of the proceeds raised will assist with senior housing repairs.

JOANN CALLAHAN

PHOTOS: AUBREY AKERS

AICHA ANDELIA AND AMANDA FAULK

REMONDE LEVY, ISOKEM OBASEKI, WISLENE CHARLES, AND JOSE LOPEZ AZIZA WALKER AND SARITE KING

SARAH GREEN AND MICHELE CANFIELD

DOLLY AND CHELSEA BROOKS CASSIE CAUTHEN

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

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On the scene // Hi, society!

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2014

WINE AND DINE Wine lovers were treated to prestigious Opus One wines at a Wine Connoisseurs Dinner at Mount Dora’s Palm Tree Grille & Bar. The event benefited the Thomas and Kim Ruggie Foundation, which supports many charities. Proceeds from the evening’s special auction went to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Special guest for the evening was J. France Posener of Opus One Wines, who talked about the founding of Opus One and why it’s become one of America’s most elite wines.

JOE AND MENA SABATINI, WITH CHRIS MARSHA

PHOTOS: TONY DESANTIS

WADE BOYETTE, NICCI MEYER, WITH GINGER AND TED WILLIAMS

GERRY AND ANN GUENTHER WITH BRETT AND PEGGY PARENT

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“Mae West said it best: ‘Too much of a good thing can be truly wonderful.’”

— J. France Posener

KIM RUGGIE, SKIP WEST, JAYNA BRADSHAW, AND THOMAS RUGGIE

“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

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GET ON THE

BUS SUPPORT LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS

The Educational Foundation of Lake County serves as the connection between our community and public education, evaluating needs and securing resources to enhance the quality of education.

For information on how you can join our efforts please call 352-326-1265 or visit www.edfoundationlake.com

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The Trust Department >˜ˆViĂŠ ÂŤ>ˆÂ?Â?>Ă€`]ĂŠ >ĂŒÂ…iĂ€ÂˆÂ˜iĂŠ7>ÀÀi˜] ˆÂ?Â?ĂŠ ˆ˜˜iĂ›iÂ?`]ĂŠ `ĂŠ Ă€ÂœÂœÂŽĂƒ]ĂŠ >ĂŒĂŒĂŠ >VÂŽÂ?iĂ€] >Ă€iÂ˜ĂŠ °Ê iiĂŠ >ĂŒĂŒĂŠ If you’ve been to our Trust and Investment Services Department, then you recognize us. We’ve been dedicated to helping people build financial security for a long time, and built a lot of enduring relationships along the way.

It comes naturally when you put your customers first.

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banking for

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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.

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Events by Miss Daisy’s Let us plan your event!

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Thursday, April 24, 2014 @ 2 PM CHARITY BINGO EVENT FOR ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

Bingo cards will be sold at the door. Game prizes donated by local businesses. Guest speaker will be David Huckabee of the Alzheimer’s Association. Beverages & Refreshments will be served. All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, May 15, 2014 @ 7 – 9 PM CHARITY RAFFLE FOR HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win fabulous items donated by local businesses, individuals and organizations.

Light Hors D’oeuvres, Chocolate Fountain & Beverages.

Entertainment by Steve Robinson and Master of Ceremonies Evelio Silvera All proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity of Marion County.

Seating is limited so please RSVP 352-873-2036

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eats IN THE KITCHEN SALUTÉ FORK ON THE ROAD DINING GUIDE

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ITALY IS SERVED

In Roberto Manco’s kitchen, cooking is about passion, creativity, and making people happy with incredible Italian cuisine.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

H

is boyish smile is infectious. And his spirit — it’s one of gratitude and sheer humility. Most would turn up their nose at the backbreaking, fastidious work of being a chef, but 31-year-old Roberto Manco savors it every second he’s in the kitchen. For him, food is an extension of home, and it is something he loves to share with people, whether it’s his own growing family or customers who enjoy his bona fide Italian recipes.

“I like what I do,” he explains while sitting in the restaurant around which he has built his young career. “I like to make people happy eating my food. That is what excites me — when people try it and say they love it.”

Roberto’s story is the quintessential realization of the American Dream. When he came to America, he had $100 to his name and a desire to become an executive chef. In his hometown of Naples, Italy, such hopes would have gone unfulfilled.

“Sometimes I miss my city because Naples is so beautiful; however, where I grew up there were no opportunities to do what I’m doing today,” he says. “The U.S. is amazing because what you put your mind to, you can do it.”

For the last 10 years, Roberto has worked as executive chef at his brother’s restaurant, Giovanni’s Ristorante and Pizzeria, in The Villages. It’s a far cry from his days as a 13-year-old boy in Southern Italy cleaning fish until 2a.m.

“I still remember that first day of work. I arrived at the restaurant at 5p.m. and there were more than 200 fish that needed to be filleted and prepared. I started thinking to myself, ‘Do I really want to do this?’” he says. “I was paid $30 for working the whole threeday weekend.”

Nevertheless, Robert was unintimidated by the grueling menial tasks of lowly restaurant labor. After finishing high school, he enrolled in the culinary institute at Ipssar Cavalcanti, a trade

school in Naples. There, he gained real world experience working at various upscale restaurants as a student, and during the winter season, he worked in a local bakery that nurtured his fondness for pastries and cakes, making it his specialty.

After five years of school — and a vacation to Florida that left him completely in love with the state — Roberto made the decision to leave home and start afresh in a new country.

While working in The Villages, Roberto has fruitfully cultivated a following. On any given night at Giovanni’s, the dining room is packed with patrons enjoying a pizza or perhaps a fresh pasta dish. And the phone constantly rings with takeout orders. In a town where restaurant options aren’t lacking, Roberto, along with his brother and staff, are honored they’re still able to hold people’s interest nearly a decade later. Therefore, when Roberto printed his own cookbook, it didn’t take long to sell his first 500 copies.

“I originally made the book for myself. I wanted to accomplish something more in my career. But then when I went to the printer, they said I would have to print a minimum of 500 copies, so I did and sold the extras since I wouldn’t need that many books.”

To date, Roberto has sold roughly 700 copies of “A Taste of Italy.” Some of the recipes are ones he picked up in culinary school; some are family favorites passed down from his mom.

But a lot of the recipes in the book are ones Roberto created himself. It took him 14 months to put the book together.

“I started with appetizers and soups and worked my way down,” he says. “I wanted to use this book as a way to introduce people to modern, authentic Italian dishes that are a true reflection of my culture.”

Flipping through the 129 recipes, home chefs can expect to find some familiar and not-so-familiar dishes. The book starts with a simple recipe for caprese salad. Then for soups, people may enjoy trying their hand at making an authentic minestrone or

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Italian wedding soup. The entrees are plentiful with everything from how to make basic marinara and fresh egg pasta dough to thorough instructions on how to cook the perfect veal siciliano or parmesan risotto. As for desserts, classics like cannoli and panna cotta are sure to satisfy a sweet tooth or two.

However, what is most surprising about Roberto’s book is the ease of preparing the recipes. Aside from showing Italian cooking as simple yet creative, Roberto says he also wanted his recipes to be easy to cook.

“Have you ever bought a cookbook only to find you can’t make any of the recipes because you need to buy special ingredients that can’t be found at the grocery store? I didn’t want to do that. I wanted to have a book with recipes that people can make using items you can find at your local store. You won’t have to order strange ingredients from Italy that you’ll only use one time. The important part of making these recipes should be the experience of eating and sharing your finished dish, not fumbling with difficult produce.”

And as Roberto watches a pair of customers take a bite of his margherita pizza, he warmly reflects on what his work means to him.

“I had to start from the bottom and work my way up,” he says. “I had to go get it instead of having it handed to me. I think that makes me more appreciative because I built my success myself.”

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CHICKEN ROLLATINI (INVOLTINO DI POLLO) Recipe courtesy of Roberto Manco

YIELDS Four servings INGREDIENTS: 4 chicken breasts, cut 1/4-inch thick, pounded thin 1 cup shredded mozzarella 1 cup flour 1/2 cup chopped frozen spinach (squeeze all the water out) 3 slices cooked ham, diced small 1 cup chicken broth 2 tablespoons margarine 1 package fresh mushrooms, sliced 1 sprig fresh rosemary 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 2/3 cup Marsala or sherry wine Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS: 1. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, mozzarella, and ham.

2. Lay out chicken breasts and sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. On one side of the breast, about an inch in, add one to two tablespoons of spinach mixture.

4. Roll short side over the filing and continue to roll and tuck in the sides.

5. Secure with toothpicks.

6. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the margarine.

7. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.

8. As soon as the margarine foam lessens, place the chicken in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides. Add the mushrooms, salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, and sherry or Marsala wine.

9. Reduce to medium heat and cook until sauce thickens.

10. Cut the chicken in slices and place on a serving dish. Spoon sauce over chicken and sprinkle with parsley.

NOTE: This dish can be served over pasta or rosemary potatoes.

STRAWBERRY TIRAMISĂš Recipe courtesy of Roberto Manco

YIELDS Four to five servings INGREDIENTS: 3 large eggs, separated 1/2 cup sugar 2 tablespoons cognac or liquorish coffee 1 cup mascarpone cheese 1 (6-ounce) package of strawberry Jello 4 cups hot water 1 small package of fresh strawberries, chopped 36 packaged ladyfingers 1/2 cup cocoa

DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine egg yolks, sugar, and cognac into a large mixing bowl. Beat for three minutes.

2. Add mascarpone cheese and beat until consistency smooth, approximately five minutes. In another bowl, combine egg whites with a pinch of sugar and beat until mixture forms stiff peaks. Gently fold into the mascarpone cheese mixture. Mix Jello and hot water in a bowl and dip each ladyfinger into the Jello mixture for only a few seconds. Then layer them on the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan. Evenly spread a layer of mascarpone cheese mixture over the ladyfingers, sprinkled with cocoa on top and covered with chopped fresh strawberries. Arrange another layer of ladyfingers soaked in Jello and top with another layer of mascarpone mixture topped with cocoa and strawberries.

3. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately two to three hours before serving. Cut into portions, place on dessert plates, and serve.

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EATS // saluté A worldly look at wine

SECRETS OF SONOMA

While the wine world was watching neighboring Napa County, the laid-back and unpretentious Sonoma County grew into a first-class destination where wines are just as delicious… and still affordable.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY DRY CREEK WINERY AND MARY ANN DESANTIS

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he heavy bookcase filled with classics fit right into the parlor’s Victorian décor at the Grape Leaf Inn in Healdsburg, Calif., a northern Sonoma County town that is at the nexus of the region’s best-known appellations. Every afternoon, though, the case swung open to reveal a steep staircase down to the “speakeasy” where guests could sample wines produced by the B&B owners Ken and Diane Wilson. The wine cellar bar really didn’t have a history as a speakeasy, but the artisan wines served were my first revelation to this area’s secret allure. Small wineries are producing some phenomenal wines that are still reasonably priced compared to similar wines produced in Napa or Tuscany.

Sonoma’s charm is becoming a wellknown secret as many accolades are coming its way. Wine Enthusiast and USA Today named it one of the Top 10 Wine Destinations in the world for 2014. A few weeks prior, Healdsburg’s Honor Mansion received TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice award for America’s No. 1 most romantic spot. And if you plan to drink a California wine tonight, chances are it’s from northern Sonoma’s Wine Road, which meanders through six of the county’s 14 wine growing appellations and has been recognized by Bicycling Magazine as one of the greatest rides on Earth.

Sonoma County is a long, almost rectangular county — much like Florida’s own Lake County — with many different classifications of loamy soil, which is perfect for grape growing. At the southern end of the county is the renowned town of Sonoma where many wine tourists

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stop and go no farther. However, that is a mistake as the northern end of the county gets much more interesting with three highly regarded wine growing regions: Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and the Russian River Valley, all circling the historic town of Healdsburg.

“Northern Sonoma is an amazing place to grow grapes,” says Clay Mauritson, whose family settled in the area in 1868 and planted their first vineyard in 1884. “We are blessed to have so many different types of soils.”

The Russian River carves the valleys of northern Sonoma, and the warm summers, cool winters, and fog from the Pacific Ocean provide perfect growing conditions for many types of grapes. It’s no wonder each appellation has its standout varietals: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the Russian River Valley; Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley; and Cabernet and Merlot from the Alexander Valley.

Dozens of other varietals, including Barbera, Grenache, and Sangiovese, are also grown in these valleys, but it is the Cabernets and Chardonnays from this regional trifecta that can hold their own against varietals from around the world.

When wandering the Wine Road, either by car or bicycle (an increasingly popular mode of transportation for tourists), visitors will see wineries of all sizes. The surprise is how well they all get along. From small producers like MacPhail that produces only 5,000 cases a year to the well-known Dry Creek Vineyards that sells 100,000 cases annually, winemakers sing in unison

about the area’s friendly spirit, common goals of sustainability, and cooperation to make things happen. They want Sonoma to be the No. 1 wine region in the world where oenophiles can explore a full range of tasting experiences while talking to the winemakers in the tasting rooms.

The secret to success has to be the laidback and unpretentious environments that the wineries have created. Northern Sonoma wines are world-class, but the local feel is unmistakable.

“We want people to discover something new and wonderful,” explains Chef Bruce Riezenman, who works with Lambert Bridge’s winemaker Jennifer Higgins to create exquisite wine and food pairings at the winery’s Dry Creek Valley headquarters. “Wine is an opportunity to enjoy the things in life that matter: health, happiness, family, and friends.”

That sentiment is echoed by the townsfolk of Healdsburg, a place described as the “belle of a trendy country ball who prefers to be out in the vineyards sampling Zinfandel on the vine.” Indeed the downto-earth charms of the northern Sonoma town are inescapable, whether you are on its historic town square surrounded by tasting rooms or discovering a few of the almost 200 nearby wineries.

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.

“WE WANT PEOPLE TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW AND WONDERFUL” – CHEF BRUCE RIEZENMAN

NORTHERN SONOMA WINE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM LOCAL WINE MERCHANTS Nancy Lackey, Owner Wine Cellars of Mount Dora Wine Cellars Uncorked/Eustis

Folie a deux Zinfandel ($18.99) Dry Creek Valley

Kurtz Family Cellars Chardonnay ($20.99) Russian River Valley

Clos du Bois 2008 Merlot Reserve ($24.99) Alexander Valley

Joyce Huey, Owner Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe Leesburg

J Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir ($40) Russian River Valley

Rodney Strong 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($22) Russian River/Healdsburg

Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay ($27) Russian River

2009 Jordan Cabernet ($61.99) Alexander Valley

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EATS // fork on the road Tasty insights and observations

MASON JAR RESTAURANT

This Umatilla eatery, known for downhome Southern eats, has been serving up all the comforts of home since 1979.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ AND MATTHEW GAULIN

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ny restaurant that serves real Southern sweet tea in glass Mason jars will naturally seize my curiosity. However, what actually prompted my recent visit to the Mason Jar Restaurant in Umatilla was my craving for something that reminded me of my Southern Georgia roots.

Growing up, good ol’ Southern cooking — or soul food as some may call it — was a treat. Twice, maybe three times, a year, my mom would go all out making fried chicken, collard greens, skillet cornbread, black-eyed peas, baked macaroni and cheese, and yams.

But as an adult, I have found it hard to mimic those distinct flavors and special recipes that have been passed down generation after generation. It’s because this kind of cooking can’t be achieved by simply reading a 6-by-4-inch recipe card. It is instinctive and homegrown.

It’s knowing when to use a “pinch” of this and a “cup”

of that — without a measuring cup. Therefore, in my endless hunt to find yummy local Southern vittles, people kept telling me the same thing: “Go to Mason Jar.” Traveling north on State Road 19, I couldn’t miss the brown, yellow, and cow print “Mason Jar Restaurant” sign.

The exterior reminded me a little of Cracker Barrel with its large rocking chairs that match the wooden façade.

However, the similarities end there. Once inside, I was served in a manner that you would be hard-pressed to find today in most restaurants, let alone at a chain.

Keri Greer runs Mason Jar with her brother Byron Key. They took over the family business from their mother, Latrell Key, who opened the restaurant in 1979. Like most family-owned operations, the restaurant started with a dream and a small local following. Over the years, it has flourished into a place people near and far visit for home-style cooking

and family-like hospitality.

When I dropped by, Keri made me feel instantly at home. Her outgoing personality is a perfect fit for a restaurant that prides itself on being friendly and down-to-earth.

Inside, Mason Jar reminded me of Texas with its countrified tchotchke, iron Lone Star wall piece, and massive Longhorn steer head, which is mounted high to overlook the whole dining room. I took a seat in the back so I could watch as the wait staff and customers interacted like old friends. Diners shot pleasantries across the room and even visited with each other as they waited for their food to arrive.

Noticeably occupied much of the lunch hour was the locals table, also known as Table 13. Keri and her staff set aside this long, visibly worn dining table for Mason Jar’s veteran customers. Anyone lucky enough to sneak a peek at this piece of history will find the many names of long-timers engraved in the finish.

“We keep it ready for when our regulars come here,” Keri said. “We always make sure to cater to them. Some I’ve known since I was a little girl.”

Sipping slowly on my jar of perfectly brewed sweet tea, I enjoyed the soothing whirr of the diverse noon crowd — boisterous young men sporting camouflage and cowboy hats sharing laughs between bites, local workers devouring lunch before heading back for the second half of the workday, and retired men and women catching up on the day’s local gossip.

Eventually, the wafting aromas of freshly fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, black-eyed peas, and candied yams nudged me back to reality. To other patrons, it probably looked like I was a girl with a colossal appetite, but I didn’t pay the curious stares any mind. I took Mason Jar’s motto to heart: I ate like no one was watching.

The fried chicken was too hot to handle, so I tried my sides first. The mashed

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potatoes were velvety on their own but the simple brown gravy added a tad of buttery richness. And the candied yams, glazed with butter, brown sugar, and savory spices, were firm — not at all mushy — and delicately sweetened.

The black-eyes peas were my favorite. They were well seasoned with a subtle hint of woodsy smoke flavor.

And my corn muffins and buttermilk biscuit were also delicious,

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needing only a pat of butter to make them supreme. Nevertheless, what truly made my visit was the fried chicken. The amply spiced coating crunched as my teeth meet with the succulent meat that had more flavor than anything you could grab through a drive-thru.

Then Keri presented me with an impromptu sampling of Mason Jar’s well-known fried chicken livers. I don’t fancy myself an offal eater; the thought of

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eating organ meats don’t really enthuse me.

But I always make it a point to try new things.

Remarkably, the crispy batter and homemade ranch dressing for dipping made the livers a pleasant and memorable experience.

They don’t have the same abrasive taste like cow liver has, which helped make it toothsome.

For dessert, I couldn’t leave without trying the peach cobbler. The golden brown crust

was crisp yet still soft enough to soak up the wonderfully flavorful peach nectars and vanilla ice cream.

As I took the final sip of my sweet tea and collected my purse, Keri offered a heartfelt goodbye and a standing invitation to return anytime.

And you know what?

I think I’ll have to take her up on that.

ADDRESS: 37534 State Road 19, Umatilla, FL 32784 PHONE: 352.589.2535 HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday–Saturday, 6a.m.–8p.m.; Sunday, 6a.m.–2p.m POPULAR LUNCH DISHES: Pearl’s Patty Melt: $7.49 Country Fried Chicken: $8.99 Roast Beef: $10.99 Country Fried Steak: $9.99

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.

“I’ve been in the medical field for 23 years, so it is fair to say I know what a successful practice entails. I was impressed with Tri-County Podiatry from the very beginning. The entire staff is warm and friendly and goes out of their way to make patients feel comfortable and informed. My experience was great, and I would not hesitate to go back.”

--Rene Barnes

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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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.

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.

TONY’S PIZZA

2760 E. ORANGE AVE., EUSTIS 352.589.9001 // WWW.TONYSPIZZANDSUBS.COM

LOGO

Tucked away on the east side of Eustis, Tony’s Pizza has been serving the locals for over 25 years. Previously voted “Best Pizza,” Tony’s casual setting offers a variety of entrees, such as our Blackened Chicken Cajun Pasta. In addition to the lunch specials, Tony’s has expanded its menu to include a variety of Flatbreads and the very popular Mahi Salad. If you are a pizza lover, you will appreciate freshly made dough and enjoy the new Wild Green Mushroom and Mediterranean pizzas. The menu also offers some wonderful desserts, including a variety of cakes and cheesecakes. Whether it’s for your favorite pizza or garlic rolls, Tony’s variety and style will have you coming back for more.

DINE IN • TAKE OUT • CATERING HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY–THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

11A.M.–9P.M 11A.M.–9:30P.M. 11:30A.M.–9P.M. 11:30A.M.–8P.M.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR DINING SECTION? CALL US AT 352.787.4112 LOGO//Sponsor

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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 // www.pfpconline.com 10 8

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“OUR KIDS WERE CONVINCED BEFORE WE WERE… that Freedom Pointe was the right move for us. They were relieved when we decided to make the move. After 62 years of marriage it was time for an easier lifestyle. What we like best about Freedom Pointe is being relieved of the everyday activities of planning, cooking and household

Marilyn and Dick Horton, Freedom Pointe residents

maintenance. I still enjoy my golf and Marilyn enjoys her quilting, with our Villages friends. And, we know where we’ll be whatever the future holds.”

Join us for coffee, conversation and culinary delights!

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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 by April 18.

A Life Care Community

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.

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Financial Advisor MOUNT DORA .

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114 East Dixie 352.383.4539 Avenue Leesburg, FL 34748 352-787-7782

Products and services offered through Edward D. Jones & Co, L.P. © 2013, Member SIPC

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Products and services offered through Edward D. Jones & Co, L.P. © 2013, Member SIPC

1550 El Camino Real | The Villages, FL 32159 | brookdale.com

The Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute is dedicated solely to treating prostate cancer.

The center is designed for patient comfort and convenience with innovative technology and the highest standards of quality.

There are many ways prostate cancer may be treated. Our team of board-certified urologists, pathologists and radiation oncologists personalizes treatment based on each patient’s unique needs.

Adjacent to The Villages, the Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute offers a variety of techniques and treatments including: • RapidArc IMRT with IGRT Utilizing ConeBeam CT

The Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology as the result of a recent

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Together, our clinical team is dedicated to finding the best prostate cancer treatment option for you.

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12109 County Road 103 • Oxford, FL 34484 • 1-855-298-CURE • 352-350-8272 AdvancedProstateCancerInstitute.com Successful prostate cancer treatment depends on early detection. Speak with your physician about your risk factors to determine when screening for prostate cancer is right.

Final thought // Gary McKechnie

DOWN IN THE DUMPS

I

can’t recall ever receiving a gift from the city until a few days ago when they delivered a new garbage can and a recycling container, even though I wanted a cabin cruiser. I haven’t put any trash into them yet (they’re just too clean for that), but it reminded me that 46 years ago my net worth increased by 15 cents each week after I’d empty my family’s trash cans. It was fun and profitable. Investing the $7.80 I earned in fiscal year 1968 at a nominal 4 percent; today my estate is valued in excess of $49.

I assumed I’d make my living as a trash man, but due to a lack of talent, I became a writer (for which I earn $7.80 annually). Sometimes I think I should’ve followed up on my trash career, especially when I read a 2012 Gallup Poll of “Most Despised Professions” and saw ‘journalists’ (aka me) in the Top 10. I thought sanitation workers would top the list but members of Congress claimed that honor, which is understandable considering they are usually knee-deep in nauseating filth.

Lake County’s top trash man is Skip McCall, who’s the Solid Waste Division manager at Astatula’s Lake County Landfill. He told me — and I have no reason to doubt him since he’s not in Congress — that roughly 650 tons of trash and ash (the residue of garbage incinerated at Okahumpka’s Covanta facility) arrives here every day.

Then add to this sum the tons

of insecticides and pesticides and acids and poisons that county residents bring to 26 household hazardous waste outreach events a year and then pile on top of that more refuse gathered from five outlying “convenience centers” in Astor, Paisley, Pine Lakes, Fruitland Park, and Clermont.

Strangely, you’ll hardly see a trace of trash at this 400-acre landfill.

Thousands of tons of it are hidden beneath grassy, manicured mountains nearly 20 stories tall. This is surely a handsome landfill. If George Clooney were a landfill, he’d be this one. And not only is this baby clean, it comes loaded with extras. Extras like 6,000 gallons of disposed paint given away each year to whoever wants it. Not only paint, but mulch and firewood and bicycles destined for destruction are offered free to county residents. Even huge chunks of concrete that were once walls and sidewalks and barricades are pulverized before being re-used by the county road department.

Working with McCall is superintendent Jay Gunter, a man who feels best when he’s down in the dumps. Gunter, aka ‘Soopa’, is excited as we walk among pallets stacked with old televisions and computers and stride through mounds of milk jugs and beer cans and old newspapers. He stops and talks to every landfill worker who passes.

“I am so proud of these guys,” he says, watching

employee Mario Chatman separate out an assortment of car batteries, antifreeze, poisons, acids, motor oil, and other hazardous materials.

“They’re such a great group of people. Each one of them has

I was a trash man, once, but I doubt I could ever share Gunter’s passion.

a Class A CDL endorsement so they can drive any of our ‘yellow iron.’ The fire truck and the ‘dozer, the loader and forklift and the skid steer and the Bobcat and the tractortrailer and the roll-off-truck and the…”

I noticed Gunter had a dreamy look — the same look middle-aged men get when they recall Ginger or Mary Ann. But his eyes ignite like Vesuvius when he thinks of the sporty little number that could go head-to-head with any car on the road — and then crush it. For Gunter, bliss arrives when he’s at the controls of the 53,000 ton Jon ADVantage 525 Landfill Compactor. Tricked out with a four-speed transmission and 48-inch wide M-Trax Diamond wheels on a 12-foot wheelbase, this 540-horsepower thunder lizard would soon reduce a 20-foot high mountain of wood, wire, and waste (which happens to include a cabin cruiser that should’ve been sent to my house) into a paltry pile of trash the height of a garbage can.

“I’m not happy unless I’m around this stuff! It’s like breathing!” Gunter laughs. “I can’t live without it, man!”

I was a trash man, once, but I doubt I could ever share Gunter’s passion. It takes a special person — no, it takes special people — to take in all the garbage we throw at them, and then handle it all with pride and passion.

And these are the people of the Lake County Landfill.

ANNOUNCING THE WINNERS OF THE

2014 PARADE OF HOMES ENERGY EFFICIENT/ GREEN AWARD WINNER: “THE FLAGLER”

by Mainsail Solutions

THE GRAND/ TOP SCORE AWARD is awarded to the entry which out of all the

REALTOR AWARDS ®

North Lake Region winner:

“THE DIAMOND”

by A&M Homes

South Lake Region winner:

“THE BALDWIN”

by Royal Oak Homes

entries scored the most points from the judges.

This year the GRAND/TOP Score award went to

Central Lake Region winner:

“THE HUNTLY”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group

CATEGORY:

CATEGORY:

CATEGORY:

“THE SANTA MARIA”

by Medallion Home

CATEGORY:

CATEGORY:

$134,000 - $210,000

$217,000 - $245,000

$256,000 - $325,000

$344,000 - $424,000

$449,000 - $621,000

1st Place went to “THE MONICA”

by Royal Oak Homes

1st Place went to “THE HARTFORD A”

by Maronda Homes

1st Place went to “THE HUNTLEY”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group

1st Place went to “THE TOCANA”

by J. Drewes Construction

1st Place went to “THE FLAGLER”

by Mainsail Solutions

2nd Place went to “THE TIFFANY”

by Kevco Builders

2nd Place went to “THE MEADOW RIDGE CUSTOM HOME”

by Kevco Builders

2nd Place went to “THE VISTA”

by Pioneer Custom Homes

2nd Place went to “THE SCARSBOROUGH”

by Pringle Homebuilding Group

2nd Place went to “THE ARREZZO II”

by Harbor Hills Development

HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF LAKE - SUMTER 1100 N. Joanna Avenue Tavares, FL 32778 PH 352-343-7101 // FX 888-966-0592 www.LAKESUMTERHBA.com

The Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter is a non-profit trade industry association representing 200 construction companies and associated business industries. Formed in 1973, the HBA is the local affiliate of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA).

“Treating customers with honesty and integrity for over 35 years! You’ll be treated as an honored guest in our home!”

—Frank DeLuca, President/Owner

MANUAL TRANSIMISSION MODEL #1841

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www.delucatoyota.com

(352) 533-2198

*EXCLUDES DEALER INSTALLED ACCESSORIES, TAX, TAG, REGISTRATION, TITLE AND INCLUDES $684.50 DEALER FEE. OFFER EXPIRES 04/30/14.

At Florida Hospital Waterman, our patients’ health and wellbeing is our top priority. We know patients turn to us trusting we will do our best to get them back to their best.

We’re committed to providing advanced, safe, compassionate care to each and every patient. And we’re proud to be recognized as Lake County’s safest hospital with the county’s only “A” Hospital Safety Score based on how well we protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections. Visit FHWat.org to learn more about our commitment to safety and improving patient care.

HOSPITAL SAFETY SCORE SM

A

FALL 2013

www.hospitalsafetyscore.org

H S S

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www.VillagesPlasticSurgery.com THE VILLAGES LOCATION 1501 US Hwy 441 N, Bldg 1000, STE 1001 The Villages, FL 32159

OCALA/PADDOCK PARK LOCATION 3320 SW 34th Circle, Ocala, FL 34474