STYLE Magazine, Village Edition, March 2019

March 2019

VILLAGE EDITION

HOMES ON PARADE

It’s the annual Parade of Homes with a special peek at last year’s winner.

DORA PARC, TAKE TWO

A new Florida developer brings abandoned development back to life.

NO PLACE FOR BULLYING

An anti-bullying campaign at LHS reaps big benefits.

BUSTED PIPES? WATER HEATER ON THE FRITZ?

WE CAN FIX THAT

...AND SO MUCH MORE.

Terry Ross and his crew at Ross Plumbing take on all types of jobs and treat customers like family.

Life can feel like a holein-one when your heart’s in the right place

V I S I T U S O N L I N E TO L E A R N M O R E A B O U T O U R P H YS I C I A N S A N D M E D I C A L P RO F E S S I O N A L S

The Right Place is Village Heart & Vein Center Our physicians and medical professionals have been treating Central Floridians for years with a level of exemplary cardiac and vascular care that comes straight from the heart.

The Oaks Professional Center, 8575 NE 138th Lane | 352.674.2080 | villageheartandvein.com

C O M M E R C I A L

R E S I D E N T I A L

0C% ING 1I0 A N N BLE F ILA AVA

HOME & BUSINESS BACKUP GENERATORS Electrical Works installs both residential and commercial generators. The best part is generators on the market are much more affordable because Electrical Works offers 100 percent financing.

307 East Main St, Leesburg FL 34748 352.460.0810 electricalworksflorida.com LICENSE EC13005476

When your Health is an urgent matter.

AFTER 20 YEARS OF CARE, we understand health issues can happen at any time. To serve those urgent needs, we are proud to introduce our new urgent care center.

201 LaGrande Blvd, Lady Lake 352.326.6001 / 9-7 Mon-Fri 8-5 Sat & Sun 27637 US HWY 27, Leesburg 352.326.6012 / 9-7 Sun, Mon, & Fri

fhvhealth.com CHAIRMAN, DAVID C. LEW, MD, FACC, FSCAI VICE CHAIRMAN, JOSÉ R. ROSADO, MD, FACC PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS FLORIDA HEART & VASCULAR MULTI-SPECIALTY GROUP

A D VA N C E D

CATA R A CT

S U RG E RY

A CLEAR VIEW OF THE PERFECT SHOT IF CATARACTS ARE CRAMPING YOUR GAME, LAKE EYE HAS THE LATEST IN LASER CATARACT SURGERY AND LENS REPLACEMENT SO IN JUST MINUTES, YOUR EYES CAN BE RESTORED AT OR CLOSE TO 20/20.

GAME ON!

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES TAVARES • LEESBURG • THE VILLAGES • LADY LAKE

352-365-2020 • www.LakeEye.com •

“The Femto laser removes cataracts without blades or cutting, making it possibly the safest, most accurate cataract surgery in existence. Lake Eye was the first regional provider to offer it.”

– SCOTT WEHRLY, MD

DO YOU KNOW YOUR BEST

OPTIONS? FACELIFT, TEMPORARY FILLERS, OR PERMANENT FACIAL FILLERS

Liz had ImageLift, Laser, and filler treatments. Results are typical and do vary.

Kathy had a Laser ImageLift. Results are typical and do vary.

YOU’RE INVITED TO FIND OUT! Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Free ImageLift seminars are being held at the following locations in March and April. Meet the doctor and enjoy free food, books, *drawings and door prizes.

Raffle drawings for free filler, a $995-$1200 value

UPCOMING FACIAL BEAUTY SOCIAL MIXER MAR 7

MOUNT DORA COUNTRY CLUB

MAR 12 IMAGE LIFT OFFICE LUNCHEON, THE VILLAGES

MAR 26 WATERFRONT INN, THE VILLAGES APR 17 WATERFRONT INN, THE VILLAGES CALL NOW TO RSVP - LIMITED SEATING

MEET THE TEAM!

WSJ

Bestseller!

FREE IMAGELIFT BOOK for first 20 callers! Limited quantities (Retail $14.95)

DR. RICH CASTELLANO

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

*Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hrs of responding to ad for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.

8630 East CR 466, The Villages 877.346.2435 // www.IMAGELIFT.com

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the staff at TB Financial!

We Listen.

We Care.

We Educate.

TB

F INANCIAL G ROUP I NC .

352.350.1161

TBFinancialGroup.com 3261 U.S. Highway 441/27, Suite F-2 Fruitland Park, FL 34731

Liz Cornell, CAS®

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

ANNUITIES 101 SEMINARS FOR MARCH CALL TO REGISTER!

March 5th & 14th | 10 a.m.

March 12th | 10 a.m.

THE WATERFRONT INN, THE VILLAGES

MISSION INN, HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS

Seating is very limited and by RSVP only.

TB Financial Group Inc. is a licensed insurance agency for life, health, and annuities. We are not securities licensed. We are not tax advisors. Our seminars are very general in nature and not meant to replace the advice of your CPA, Tax Preparer, Investment Advisor or Attorney. We will not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax or legal professional for these matters.

MARCH 2019 // VOL.15 NO. 5 // F e a t u r e s

38 Home Guide Custom-home builders and community developers are well aware of the current population growth in Lake and Sumter counties. Learn from the builders about current trends in home design and technology.

52 Dora Parc gets new developer Lennar Homes has big plans for new home construction on Lake Dora in Mount Dora.

STORY: CHRIS GERBASI

HOMES ON PARADE

March 2019

It’s the annual Parade of Homes with a special peek at last year’s winner.

LAKE & SUMTER

DORA PARC, TAKE TWO

A new Florida developer brings abandoned development back to life.

NO PLACE FOR BULLYING An anti-bullying campaign at LHS reaps big benefits.

That’s what I call home

Four prominent builders discuss trends, styles, and building a homebuyer’s dream.

March 2019

VILLAGE EDITION HOMES ON PARADE

STORY: JAMES COMBS, LEIGH NEELY, CHRIS GERBASI, AND THERESA CAMPBELL

It’s the annual Parade of Homes with a special peek at last year’s winner.

DORA PARC, TAKE TWO

A new Florida developer brings abandoned development back to life.

NO PLACE FOR BULLYING

48 The Parade of Homes Last year, Medallion Home’s Lakes of Mount Dora won “Best in Show” in the 2018 Parade of Homes by the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter. Get the scoop on the great 55+ community and find out what’s happening this year.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

60 A culture change Leesburg High School has successfully implemented an anti-bullying campaign that is sponsored by the Rotary Club. What a difference a year makes!

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

An anti-bullying campaign at LHS reaps big benefits.

BUSTED PIPES? WATER HEATER ON THE FRITZ?

WE CAN FIX THAT

...AND SO MUCH MORE.

Terry Ross and his crew at Ross Plumbing take on all types of jobs and treat customers like family.

On the covers LAKE & SUMTER STYLE A KEVCO BUILDERS HOME AT THE LAKE SENECA RESERVE IN EUSTIS. VILLAGES EDITION ROSS PLUMBING PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: JASON FUGATE

*

*

d e pa r t m e n t s

98 72

24

74

21 Up Front

22 24 26 28 30

Hit List Person of Interest Outstanding Student My First Time This ‘N That

67 ON THE SCENE

68 71 72 74 78 80

The To-Do List In Concert Local Talent Near & Far Social Spotlight Hi, Society!

93 food & drink

94 96 98 100

In the Kitchen Fork on the Road Salutè Dining Guide

COLUM NS

16 From the Publisher 116 Final Thought

22 96

30th Anniversary Sale!

50% OFF

Everything is a minimum of 50% off, even the owners private collection.

Beautiful Hand-Woven Rugs Cyrus Rug Gallery brings you a selection of old-world artistry with fashion forward patterns, fresh color palettes, and elegant designs to create stunning works of art.

These stunning, exceptionally unique pieces of art are ideal for the contemporary home. Whether you are looking to add subtle texture to your rooms or want to make a deďŹ ned statement, our gallery of hand-knotted rugs is sure to provide you with the perfect artistic edge for your space.

352.629.3200 | 20 SE Broadway St., Downtown Ocala | Cyrus-Rug.com

Cyrus Rug Gallery

*

From The Publisher

A place to call home

here’s no better time to build a new home in Lake and Sumter counties. Four of the top builders in the area spoke with Style staff to provide insight about upcoming trends, styles, and new features in home design.

With everything from pet showers to concrete countertops, there’s a new list of what families want in their dream homes.

Coming up March 30-April 7 is the annual Parade of Homes presented by the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter.

This popular event is a great place to generate ideas for your own new home.

It provides the opportunity to see what most builders in the area are doing and what they can do to bring your perfect home to life.

Though it began with four colorful penguins and the promise of custom homes, it eventually went up for sale. Dora Parc had big plans for a gated community in Mount Dora offering walking paths with streetlights and access to Lake Dora through a narrow canal, but it never came to be. However, a different developer has purchased the

16

lakeandsumter

.com

property and is moving forward with a new and exciting development.

Now we have something to celebrate.

During the past year, Leesburg High School has been working with The Villages Rotary Club to end bullying. We know this is a problem in many area schools, but LHS has found an answer that works for its students and administration. Meet the people behind the movement and learn how it has changed the outlook of the students, the atmosphere of the school, and the relationship between the students and administration.

Home and school, two of the places where we spend much of our lives. At Style, we want you to know what’s happening around you, and if you have news to share, let us know.

Until next month,

Kendra

At You r S e rv i c e

Hot Off The Press!

Sneak Peek

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

March 2019

LAKE & SUMTER

HOMES ON PARADE

It’s the annual Parade of Homes with a special peek at last year’s winner.

BREATHING LIFE INTO DEATH

WHERE’S THE BEEF?

Meet bereavement counselor Chareece Hall

A local restaurant promotes a plant-based lifestyle

March 2019

SPONSORED BY

MAR '19

VILLAGE EDITION

DORA PARC, TAKE TWO

A new Florida developer brings abandoned development back to life.

NO PLACE FOR BULLYING An anti-bullying campaign at LHS reaps big benefits.

HOMES ON PARADE

It’s the annual Parade of Homes with a special peek at last year’s winner.

TO L A K E CO U N T Y

DORA PARC, TAKE TWO

A new Florida developer brings abandoned development back to life.

Kendra Akers Four prominent builders discuss trends, styles, and building a homebuyer’s dream.

WE CAN FIX THAT

...AND SO MUCH MORE.

t,

get thin

on the keto diet

That’s what I call home

BUSTED PIPES? WATER HEATER ON THE FRITZ?

ny

An anti-bullying campaign at LHS reaps big benefits.

fa Eat

OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com Doug Akers PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

NO PLACE FOR BULLYING

n ki es Th

Terry Ross and his crew at Ross Plumbing take on all types of jobs and treat customers like family.

Editorial // Design // Photography

Jason Fugate CREATIVE DIRECTOR jason@akersmediagroup.com Leigh Neely Volkan Ulgen MANAGING EDITOR DESIGNER leigh@akersmediagroup.com volkan@akersmediagroup.com James Combs Douglas Tyler STAFF WRITER DESIGNER james@akersmediagroup.com douglas@akersmediagroup.com Theresa Campbell Megan Mericle STAFF WRITER DESIGNER theresa@akersmediagroup.com megan@akersmediagroup.com Chris Gerbasi Michael Gaulin STAFF WRITER PRODUCTION DIRECTOR chris@akersmediagroup.com michael@akersmediagroup.com Anthony Rao Nicole Hamel STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER anthony@akersmediagroup.com nicole@akersmediagroup.com contributors

Joe Angione Paula F Howard Mary Ann DeSantis Parker Martin

THE SHAPE OF WATER

Great places to fish, paddle, do a boat tour, or just have fun on the water!

+

ENDLESS OUTDOOR OPTIONS Ride your bike, take a hike, grab a horse FLYING HIGH Enjoy wildlife, lots of different birds, or fly above it all AGRITOURISM Enjoy fruit and vegetables fresh from the field or get a taste of farm life.

Get yours

Coming in April:

Lake and Sumter’s Hidden Gems

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $84. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Style or Healthy Living. Choose 2 or more magazines for $108 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112 or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address change request to general@akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

BACK ISSUES: Order a single issue by mail for $7, or 2 or more single issues for $9. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.

Digitize your life.

Visit the Apple or Android app store today and download the Lake & Sumter Style or Healthy Living online magazine app for your mobile device.

sales // marketing

Tim McRae VICE PRESIDENT, SALES tim@akersmediagroup.com Melanie Melvin Brianna Lemerise DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Melanie@akersmediagroup.com brianna@akersmediagroup.com Shaena Chastain Dillon True SALES ASSISTANT ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE shaena@akersmediagroup.com dillon@akersmediagroup.com Administration

Deb Matlock Aubrey Akers Simmons DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES OFFICE MANAGER deb@akersmediagroup.com aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Akers Media

Facebook Stay connected to everything going on

distribution

Scott Hegg DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com Lake & Sumter Style is a proud member of

FULL-SERVICE ADVERTISING AGENCY INCLUDING: ADVERTISING // BRANDING // DESIGN // MEDIA PLANNING // INTERACTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT // PROMOTIONS // AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 352.787.4112

Florida Magazine Association

Leesburg Partnership

Leesburg Tavares Chamber South Lake of Commerce Chamber Chamber of Commerce of Commerce

WINNER OF

Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce

Sumter County Chamber of Commerce

Pinterest Follow us for creative inspiration.

American Advertising Association

150+ AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2019 by Akers Media. All rights reserved.

Lake & Sumter Style is a registered trademark of Akers Media. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or billing information, call 352.787.4112. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Paid Promotional Feature” 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.

Twitter Follow @GetStyleMag and @GetHLMag

YouTube Visit our channel to see exclusive videos

March 2019

17

*

MAR CH

Smoking and Cancer: Not Just the Lung Lung cancer is one of the hardest cancers to treat. It is also the leading cause of

cancer death in both men and women, and about 80 percent of all lung cancer

It’s Never Too Late.

Even if you have already been diagnosed with cancer, quitting tobacco still reduces health risk and increases chances of successful treatment. Smoking while undergoing treatment can be detrimental in the following ways:

18

lakeandsumter

.com

deaths trace back to smoking. But smoking has been linked to additional types of cancer death.

In fact, smoking accounts for about 30 percent of all cancer deaths in the US. While lung cancer is the best known of these, other smoking-linked deaths occur in cancers of the mouth, larynx (voice box), pharynx (throat), esophagus (swallowing tube), kidney, cervix, liver, bladder, pancreas, stomach, and colon/ rectum, as well as in myeloid leukemia.

Damage can also occur from secondhand smoke.

Evidence suggests that secondhand smoke is linked in adults to

• Slowed wound healing, which can lead to surgical complications such as infection or scarring • Additional side effects from chemotherapy, such as infection, fatigue, heart and lung problems • Additional side effects from radiation therapy, such as mouth

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

2019

EDI T I O N

cancers of the larynx, pharynx, nasal sinuses, brain, bladder, rectum, stomach, and breast—and in children to lymphoma, leukemia, liver cancer, and brain tumors.

Cancer has been linked not just to cigarettes but also to cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco.

Some smokeless tobacco products contain up to four times more nicotine than cigarettes and can increase the risk of oral and oropharyngeal cancer.

Waterpipe smoke contains high levels of many toxins that also appear in cigarettes and that have been linked to cancers of the lung, stomach, bladder, and esophagus.

sores, loss of taste or scarring that can affect skin appearance, breathing or bowel/urinary function • Increased risk cancer recurrence • Remaining risk of other serious illnesses or a second cancer

RBOI Can Help.

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

RBOI maintains a nonsmoking policy. Every employee at RBOI is tobacco-free. We maintain a non-smoking policy and have a tobacco cessation specialist on staff.

We also partner with the Florida Department of Health, American Cancer Society, and East Central Florida Cancer Control Collaborative to support their efforts in promoting healthy lifestyle, diet, and exercise. In connection with those efforts, we work with the Cancer Alliance of Marion County, whose quarterly educational seminars focus on prevention efforts and the importance of screening.

Most recently, we have partnered with our local YMCAs in both Marion and Citrus Counties to provide ongoing support to those who have been through cancer. The Y hosts a 12-week Livestrong program that focuses on returning to health after cancer treatment.

30 by the numbers

percent

The proportion of cancer deaths in the US that can be attributed to smoking.

55 74 to

The age range at which lung cancer diagnoses are most common.

14

BeneďŹ ts at Any Age The younger you are when you quit smoking, the greater your health benefit. But stopping at any age has a health benefit. Ten years after quitting, your risk of lung cancer decreases by 30 to 50 percent compared to people who keep smoking. Five years after quitting, your risk of mouth or esophagus cancer is cut in half.

in

The percentage of cancer deaths attributed to lung cancer.

15 years

Patient-centered radiation oncology close to home The Villages 352.259.2200 Ocala 352.732.0277 Timber Ridge 352.861.2400 Inverness 352.726.3400 Lecanto 352.527.0106

The time after quitting before your health risk is equal to a non-smoker’s.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

RBOI.com

Like us on Facebook

March 2019

19

Clean clothes Hot showers Dinner dishes Full charges Movie nights Night lights

cost less with solar.

352-353-0227 OPTIMUS-SOLAR.COM

22

T H E H I T L I ST //

24

P E R S O N O F I N T E R E ST //

26

OU T STA N D I NG ST U D E N T //

28

M Y F I R ST TI M E

//

30

21 T H I S ’ N ’ T H AT

Up Front A crowning achievement for Ansley Gray.

SEE STORY on PG 26

* TUHpE FH IrT oL InS Tt

SEE GREAT ART: Some 29 artists and 21 art studios in Lake County are opening their doors this month for the eighth annual Off the Beaten Path Florida Arts Tour, a free, self-guided event from 10am-5pm March 30-31. To see all of the participating artists and studio locations, visit floridaartstour.com and click on the Lake County tab.

3 4 22

lakeandsumter

2

DOGGONE FUN: Kids of all ages can have fun reading to the PAWS Therapy Dogs at Books-A-Million at 2pm every second Saturday. Not only do the dogs enjoy it, it inspires kids to read.

Books-A-Million is at Lake Square Mall, 10401 U.S. Highway 441, Leesburg.

THIS WILL FLOAT YOUR BOAT: Boats of bygone eras will be on display at the Sunnyland Antique and Classic Boat Festival, coming March 22-24 at Wooton Park in Tavares. See historic boats built before 1918; antique boats built between 1919 and 1942; classic boats built between 1943 and 1975; and contemporary boats from 1976 to the present. Visit acbs-sunnyland.org.

.com

WE’VE GOT THE MEATS: A fast-food zone on U.S. Highway 441 in Leesburg just got bigger. A new Arby’s restaurant went up at the Shoppes of Lake Village, anchored by Publix.

Arby’s will compete for fastfood connoisseurs with nearby Steak ’n Shake, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell. Welcome to the meat market.

JMATT IS BACK!: JMatt’s Downtown Cafe opened recently in a cozy spot at 110 3rd St. in Leesburg.

Owner JMatt Maddox and his parents, Jim and Sandy, formerly operated Southern Gourmet & Cafe on Main Street, and Sandy was in the kitchen on opening day of her son’s new venture. The cafe offers farmfresh salads, homemade soups, handcrafted sandwiches, and catering. Call 352-348-3863.

5

6

A LEGENDARY PLACE: Legends Bar & Grill is open at 11am every day for lunch and dinner. Closing times vary later in the week. Not only does the restaurant have a soup and salad bar, there’s a wing bar on Tuesdays, a pizza bar on Fridays, and karaoke every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Check it out at 3430 U.S. Highway 441 in Fruitland Park.

GIVE IT A TRI: Athletes are coming to compete in the 36th annual Great Clermont Triathlon, on March 16 at Waterfront Park. Competitors participate in an international distance triathlon (1.5K swim, 40K bicycle, 10K run), an international distance aqua bike (1.5K swim, 40K bicycle), or an international distance duathlon (5K run, 40K bicycle, 10K run). Call 352.394.1320.

IT’S A WAWA: After much speculation and mounds of earth being moved, a new Wawa gas station and convenience store took shape at U.S. Highway 441/27 and Griffin Road in Leesburg. In early 2018, a sign for Mr. Clean Car Wash stood at the former site of Sonny’s BBQ and Citizens First Bank, but later was removed. While City Manager Al Minner confirmed Wawa’s plans, the company was slow to make any announcement, but the dust has finally settled.

KUDOS FOR NEW ANIMAL SHELTER: Lake County recently broke ground on a new 31,000-square-foot facility at 12280 County Road 448 in Tavares. The new no-kill animal shelter will feature an open-air cat porch, dog viewing site, surgery room, and a special area for animals and their potential owners to meet, according to a press release. The project is being funded by Lake County’s penny sales tax.

9

10

SWEET MEMORIES: Back when Central Florida counties prominent in Florida’s booming citrus industry, the Citrus Tower in Clermont opened (July 1956) to promote the industry.

The 226-foot tall building was made of steel and concrete, and visitors took an elevator to a glass-enclosed observation deck to see endless rows of citrus trees. It remains a popular tourist attraction, and on clear days, visitors can see parts of Lake, Sumter, Orange, Polk, Pasco, Hernando, Osceola, and Seminole counties.

March 2019

23

nt * PUEpR S FO Nr o OF INTEREST

S TAT

Jose G. Puig Sr.

S

Resides: Harbor Hills in Lady Lake since 2011.

Retired engineer

Born in Cuba; left Sept. 3, 1960.

Family: Wife Aurora of 56 years; son Jose G. Puig Jr.; daughter Marie Louise Torres; five grandchildren.

Taught himself English in college.

Graduated with engineering degree in 1962 from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York.

lakeandsumter

Being creative and developing new and forthcoming technologies, such as energy-efficient MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems, and building smoke evacuation systems of high-rise buildings.

Significant projects:

Started JGP Engineering in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1974. Main office was consolidated in Miami in 2003.

24

What I’ve enjoyed about my work:

.com

One Biscayne Boulevard, a 42-story office building in Miami; the Outpatient Clinic to the Veterans Administration in

San Juan, Puerto Rico; the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Casino in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico, a 430-room resort hotel; and the Lawton Correctional Facility, a 3,000-inmate privatized prison in Lawton, Oklahoma.

What motivated me to go into this field: The conglomerate of enterprises my family created in Havana, Cuba, under a holding company, Sampedro & Puig, created by my maternal grandfather, my father, and the

support of my uncle, Gerardo Sampedro.

Best advice ever given: Give the best in any interest I seek and never tell a lie or misrepresent myself, because if you do, it will come back and hurt you. Never back down and never surrender, no matter the situation you face.

Things I enjoy: Fishing, sailing, and sea-related activities I developed since my 12th birthday. I also enjoy watching

and following the ladies professional tennis circuit, the WTA (at the 2016 Summer Olympics, granddaughter Monica Puig became the first Puerto Rican to win an Olympic gold medal.)

Favorite place for deep-sea fishing: The North Drop off St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Favorite quote: “Be your best in any endeavor you undertake.”

Photo: Anthony Rao

V I TA L

Choose Wollenschlaeger Orthodontics, the specialists devoted in straightening their teeth and aligning their bites.

At Wollenschlaeger Orthodontics, we specialize in straightening teeth and aligning your child’s bite. So whether you’re considering clear aligners or traditional braces, Dr. Dave and Dr. Chris have the training, the expertise, and the treatment options to make sure your child receives their best smile.

33050 Professional Drive, Leesburg, FL 34788 352.787.6800 /// drdaveortho.com

* OUUpT SFTrA NoDnI NtG S T U D E N T

Ansley Gray Sophomore, First Academy – Leesburg

Born in Lakeland.

2018 Teen Miss Lake County and Teen Miss Denims and Diamonds.

Has 3.65 GPA and belongs to National Honor Society.

volunteer at different events and doing everything with my sister queens.

Do you plan to continue in pageants, and how have you benefited from them?: Yes, I love being on stage and participating in them, and also getting to do all the volunteering.

Pageants have been a huge benefit to my life as I now can look people in the eye with confidence when I speak to them.

I am 16 years old and know the importance of volunteering and helping others in need. Pageantry has taught me more life skills than anything, and I will now be able to interview for jobs, be more confident in myself, and make good life choices.

What do you like about dancing?: I love dancing

lakeandsumter

.com

S

Member of Dance Dynamix competition team.

What’s the best part of being Teen Miss Lake County?: Getting to

26

S TAT

Also has been a cheerleader and yearbook staff member.

because I get to be myself and have fun. Plus, I really like dancing on the stages.

Favorite dancer?: Maddie Ziegler or Expressenz Dance Center (of Indianapolis).

Favorite movie about dancing?: “Hairspray.”

Favorite singer?: Shawn Mendes.

Favorite subject in school?: English. The way English is taught by my teacher at my school has made it fun and interesting. She makes us enjoy it while getting an education. An added bonus is that I also like to read.

True or false: “I can’t go a day without social media.”: True.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?: When people don’t use manners and are rude.

Photo: Nicole Hamel

V I TA L

www.AmericanFamilyHomesInc.com

DESIGN | BUILD | RESULTS MORE OPTIONS. PERSONAL SERVICE. BETTER RESULTS.

CUSTOM HOME ON YOUR LOT FROM THE $200s MOUNT DORA / EUSTIS / TAVARES / CLERMONT / LEESBURG / UMATILLA / ALTOONA / OCALA / DELAND / DEBARY / SANFORD

1st Contact: Mike Neace 2nd Generation, Award Winning Builder Owner / Licensed Contractor

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Call: 352-589-6004

mike@AmericanFamilyHomesInc.com State License Number - CBC058306 Broker friendly. Call Mike regarding co-broke commission policies.

“I can honestly say that by far, working with American Family Homes has been the best experience I have had with a builder.”

Homeowner - Clermont

“Committed to Quality & Satisfaction” OFFICE / DESIGN STUDIO 312 South Bay St., Eustis FL 32726 www.AmericanFamilyHomesInc.com Phone: 352-589-6004 “We love our American Family Home! We recommend Mike Neace to anyone looking for that personalized design and home building experience.”

Homeowner - Tavares

* MUYpFFI RrS ToTnI Mt E

Thanksgiving dinner Cooking for family is fun, but sharing a meal with family is special.

STORY: KIMBERLY PATTON AND LEIGH NEELY // PHOTO: ANTHONY RAO

imberly Patton and her husband had been married seven years when she chose to cook Thanksgiving dinner for just the two of them. “I had spent 18 years’ worth of holidays crowded around a worn wood table, brothers scrunched up against me, elbows bumping and toes touching,” Kimberly says.

“I grew up a cub among bears, and marrying my best friend thrust me out on my own.”

She says leaving her family to get married was easy, but letting go of the warm cocoon where she grew

28

lakeandsumter

.com

up was heart-wrenching.

Every November, they were invited to enjoy the day with friends or acquaintances, and Kimberly felt desperate to go anywhere.

“I offered to bring drinks or brownies for dessert, but never a traditional pumpkin pie, homemade biscuits, or hot cider,” she says of the traditional foods from her mother.

Her heart ached all morning thinking of her mother and those wonderful, chaotic meals. She was surprised to have a Skype call from her great aunt, who recognized the pain she must be feeling and encouraged her to “Cry, sweet girl. Cry it out. We miss you, too.”

Then her father appeared on the screen, saying he couldn’t wait for dessert and sending her off into another well of memories.

“But Thanksgiving 2017 was the first holiday I didn’t shed a tear. The first time I forgot to call my mom because I was too busy relishing the moment.

The first year that I proudly baked, stirred, whisked, poured, and devoured a giant homemade meal,” Kimberly says. “It was the first holiday meal with candles. The first content smile as my husband and I prayed in humble gratitude. My heart floated above the candles, lit with a pure joy that I had never dared to embrace until that day.”

It became the first of many!

FENCES

WOOD • VINYL ALUMINUM • RANCH RAIL CHAIN LINK • PERGOLA'S ESTATE GATES

MOSSYOAKFENCE.COM 407.900.2940

* TUHpI S F‘ Nr’ oT HnAtT

Seuss on the loose Journal tells tall tales about the good doctor.

STORY: CHRIS GERBASI // ILLUSTRATION: MEGAN MERICLE

S

ad news in the world of whimsy: Audrey Geisel died recently at 97. She was the widow of the late Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, the author of dozens of children’s books.

The couple was married for 23 years, and Audrey continued to champion her husband’s works after his death in 1991, according to news reports.

The old adage “You can’t judge a book by its cover” certainly doesn’t apply literally to Dr. Seuss’ books. One look at the colorful illustrations of wacky characters tells readers that they’re in for a fantastic journey.

In real life, however, what could we tell by looking at Dr. Seuss? Audrey’s secretly obtained journal reveals that life was not always a hoot in Whoville. Here are some random examples:

*

Ted keeps calling me “sneetch.” I haven’t the foggiest clue what he means by that, but if he calls me sneetch one more time, oh, the places he’ll go!

30

lakeandsumter

.com

July 7, 1973: Not sure what to do with Ted anymore. He keeps trying to put a hat on the cat.

Jan. 3, 1983: He wants me to always address him as “Doctor.”

If he’s a doctor, then I’m a lorax.

tooters and funky fandangos, jeepers and creepers and tumultuous tangos, rumblers and tumblers and hullabaloos, and to top it all off, they ate us out of food and drank us out of booze.

Sept. 26, 1968: Ted’s family was over for dinner tonight.

What a cacophonous calamity. There were rooters and

March 15, 1971: I’m growing suspicious of Ted. Last night, I could not find him here or there, I could not find him

anywhere. I could not find him on a boat, I could not find him with a goat. I could not find him on land or air, I think my Ted is having an affair.

June 18, 1970: Since he stopped experimenting with LSD, Ted’s creativity has really tailed off.

Aug. 11, 2002: Littleknown fact: The band Foo Fighters took its name from

one of Ted’s early works, “Horton Fears the Foo.” Aug. 8, 1985: “Horton Hears a Who” is being reprinted for the millionth time.

He refuses to try my idea, “Horton Hears the Who,” in which an elephant loses its hearing at a Who concert but is befriended by the hearing-impaired band members.

Dec. 1, 1989: Ted keeps calling me “sneetch.” I haven’t the foggiest clue what he means by that, but if he calls me sneetch one more time, oh, the places he’ll go!

Feb. 28, 1985: People don’t realize “The Butter Battle Book” is based on a true story. He eats his bread butter side down! Drives me nuts. Then he made a book out of it. The nerve of that man.

Jan. 31, 1969: Ted’s in the basement, mixing up the medicine. I’m on the pavement, thinking about the government. Oh, wait. Those are Bob Dylan lyrics.

June 21, 1988: 20th wedding anniversary today. Ted gave me an autographed photo of Boris Karloff. Just what the hell am I supposed to do with that?

June 22, 1988: I can’t get his incessant rhyming out of my head. Hop on pop.

Fox in socks. Lox in box. Mouse in house.

Policy on life goes to wife. Plan in hand, hire hitman. Ted in bed, hit on head.

I would not harm him like a flea, I would not harm him for a fee. I took a vow, won’t have a cow. I’m not a miss, I am a ma’am, I’m Dr. Seuss’ wife I am.

Please, somebody stop this madness!

Oct. 14, 1984: Nuclear war. Politics.

Social activism.

Enough already, Ted. Just write something cute about a pink bunny.

Dec. 31, 1982: Every morning, the same thing: green eggs and ham.

June 23, 1988: Oh, of course, I was only joking yesterday.

I would not leave him on a dare, I would not leave him for a bear.

May 28, 1990: Ted keeps yelling at the neighborhood kids to stay off our grass. He says it’s sacred Zax land.

What a grinch.

March 2019

31

Electrical Works PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

A

Hurricanes definitely blow.

Here are some eye-opening stats from Hurricane Irma.

More than 123,000 Lake County residents lost power.

Six days after Hurricane Irma made landfall, some 39,546 Lake County residents were still without power.

Some Lake County residents had power restored within 72 hours; others waited well over a week.

The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) paid $36 million to Lake County businesses and individuals for damages suffered from the hurricane.

WE DO 100% FINANCING. HIRING ALL POSITIONS

side from potential property damage, one of the worst things about storms and hurricanes is that you never know how long you’ll be without power.

Fortunately, Electrical Works is doing its part to help clients prepare. The Leesburg-based company installs both residential and commercial generators.

Why is that important?

There’s the comfort aspect, of course. Without power, families are stuck inside a sizzling hot home and go days without bathing or showering.

But the advantages of having a generator extend beyond comfort. Having a generator means lights are on in the home, reducing the chances of someone falling or slipping in the dark. It also means having a working radio or television to stay abreast of the latest details.

The best part is generators are much more affordable.

Electrical Works offers 100 percent financing thanks to a partnership with a company that provides loans to consumers for home repairs and upgrades. In other words, financing a generator is just like financing a home or car.

How do whole home generators work?

The key to the operation of whole home generators is an automatic transfer switch.

When your home first loses utility power—whether it’s caused by a storm or equipment failure—your generator senses a problem and prepares to restore your home’s power. The automatic transfer switch disconnects your home from your utility, usually within seconds of detecting the interruption in service.

Once your home is safely off the grid, the switch starts up the generator before transferring its power to the home’s electrical panel and restoring your electricity within seconds. The generator turns on automatically, whether you’re home or away, and it will continue operating until utility power returns.

At the heart of the system is an internal combustion engine, which usually is fueled by the local natural gas supply. Where natural gas isn’t available, liquid propane or diesel stored in a large tank nearby can be used.

Just like any other engine-powered machine, generators require regular

maintenance. Whole home generators keep themselves in shape throughout the year with weekly low-speed exercise cycles. Electrical Works can work with you to ensure that your whole home generator is operating at peak performance so when the power goes out, your generator will be ready to bring you back into the light.

307 East Main St, Leesburg FL 34748 352-460-0810

electricalworksflorida.com LICENSE EC13005476

JASON PAYNTER // GENERAL MANAGER

JOE CICERI // OWNER

32

lakeandsumter

.com

RoMac Window & Door Showroom TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY IT Full size windows, doors, and mouldings in their actual housings give you the opportunity to open, close, and inspect the products just as they would be installed in your home. Much safer than buying off a website or brochure photo.

WINDOWS, DOORS, AND CUSTOM MOULDINGS Unlike other window and door companies that show a single product line, our showroom has all the top quality window and door manufacturers. And since the acquisition of Walker Bros. Millworks, RoMac now produces some of the finest mouldings anywhere in Central Florida. We can design and manufacture a custom moulding to meet your needs, or we can match any existing moulding you need to complete a beautiful custom remodeling project.

LIC# CBC1252465

Our Millwork Team produces some of the finest custom mouldings in Central Florida. Stop by our showroom today.

RoMacFL.com

A WELL EARNED REPUTATION RoMac has earned a reputation for offering the best in quality and customer service. Stop by our showroom today and see the craftsmanship, feel the quality, and try it before you buy it.

Leesburg 700 E Main Street Open to the Public: Monday-Friday, 7am to 5pm

352.787.4545

MASTERS PROFESSION O F

T H E

THE FAMILY AT ROSS PLUMBING TREATS CUSTOMERS LIKE ONE OF THEIR OWN. PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

34

lakeandsumter

.com

hen customers choose Ross Plumbing, they know the work will be backed by generations of experience and knowledge.

Terry Ross

Terry Ross, who opened Ross Plumbing in 1983 alongside his wife, Rachel, is part of four generations of master plumbers, including three generations working at the company today. The family-owned and operated business does residential and commercial service plumbing across Lake and Sumter counties, as well as commercial new construction and remodeling across the southeastern United States.

Ross Plumbing holds active master plumber licenses in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Mississippi, as well as in Florida.

Terry’s father, Carlton Ross, is a master plumber who, at age 85, still comes into the shop every day to fabricate materials and repair equipment. Terry’s grandfather, Carl Fisher, owned Fisher Plumbing, and his uncle, Charles Holmes, operates Holmes Plumbing in Leesburg, and the two companies often work together.

Terry’s son Clint Ross is the fourth generation of master plumbers in the family—Clint’s two young sons may one day become the fifth generation in the business. The office staff also includes two other master plumbers who are like sons to Terry. Daniel Dicus, who has been part of the Ross family since the early 1990s, is an estimator and project manager on the commercial side and has taken over the job of service manager. Chris Cochran, who started with Ross in 1998, now serves as an estimator/ project manager in the commercial division. Clint, Daniel, and Chris all started out in the field at Ross.

The office staff also includes project manager/estimator Lionel Hedden, who comes from a family plumbing business and was licensed as an inspector in North Carolina; Joanne Britt, who is the company’s bookkeeper and manages the service schedule; and receptionist Kayla McCollough. Clint’s wife, Ashley Ross, works in the office doing payroll, job starts, quote requests, and other tasks, and Terry’s wife, Rachel Ross, comes in a few days a week to assist with accounting and filing, and, most importantly, to check on and build everyone’s morale, greeting them with a warm smile and a hug.

Ross’ field staff comprises more than 50 plumbers, apprentices, and service technicians, many of whom have been part of the Ross family business for more than 15 years.

The company’s commercial division routinely handles a vast array of projects, ranging from small retail interior buildouts to full-scale shopping centers, hotels, schools, restaurants, movie theaters, medical facilities, and hospital work including medical gas installations, as well as crews working nights on remodel work for Publix, Wal-Mart, and Target.

With this vast amount of experience, Ross Plumbing is qualified to take on projects of all types and sizes—no job is too big or too small—and the company prides itself on tackling complex jobs that other companies turn down.

“We often take on projects that our competition may not feel comfortable doing,” Clint says.

“With all of the large commercial jobs we’ve handled over the years,

March 2019

35

we feel more than equipped to handle any challenge, large or small, that comes our way.”

Ross Plumbing has three fully equipped service trucks, with plans to add more, along with more than 20 other trucks for commercial work. The full-service trucks are equipped with every tool necessary, such as sewer machines and inspection cameras, for any type of residential job. Ross also has seven mini-excavators and nine scissor lifts.

“Anybody can rent that equipment, but we own our own so it’s more readily available and we’re more competitive in our pricing,” Clint says.

The residential service runs the gamut of full-service plumbing, from small tasks like faucet repair/replacement, drain cleaning, water heater repair/replacement, clogged

toilets and toilet repairs, and kitchen plumbing, to bigger projects like bathroom remodeling, burst pipe repairs, and repiping entire homes or businesses. Ross also is licensed to install and repair natural gas and propane piping systems.

Ross Plumbing also utilizes many newer technology installations, such as ProPress and MegaPress systems, for making fast leak-free joints in water and gas line installations.

“The use of these tools allows us to reduce down time and, hopefully, lessen the impact of an already stressful situation for our customers,” Daniel says.

Most of the trucks at Ross are powered by compressed natural gas, which is pumped from a station at its shop. Most of the plumbing industry’s products and fixtures, like lowflow faucets and toilets, also are “green” and energy-efficient.

Ross Plumbing also has live help available 24 hours a day so customers never have to wait while an emergency plumbing problem gets worse. An experienced technician is only a phone call away.

The company provides professional diagnosis, tracking down problems so the issue is eliminated at the source. Customers receive only accurate solutions that meet their exact needs— plumbers are paid hourly, not on commission, so there’s no padding of costs or upselling at Ross.

“We tell our technicians to treat the customers the same way you would treat your own family,” Clint says. “We want our guys to be thorough and try to check for potential problems as well as current issues, but not to run up charges by selling customers items they do not need.”

Peace of mind is guaranteed. Ross Plumbing pledges to solve problems, not add to them, so customers won’t have to worry about problems reoccurring.

Terry says running the company has been challenging but rewarding Joanne through all the people he’s met and worked with

The Ross Plumbing Team

Kayla

36

lakeandsumter

Ashley

.com

Rachel

“Once we do a job for a customer, whether it’s a general contractor building a nine-story hotel or a service customer with a dripping faucet, we build their trust and they end up choosing us again and again.”

“I like the challenge of trying over the years. He started out as to figure out problems,” he an apprentice for his grandfather, says. “You can always learn who was the foreman on a crew something every day.” that did the plumbing for hotels at To add to the family atmosphere, Disney World in its early days. the office has a designated playroom “We worked on the for all the grandkids to use after Contemporary and the Polynesian school and during holidays when hotels when they were being needed. Clint’s daughter, Sophia, constructed,” Terry says. “When and sons Baylor and Ryder can be I first went down there, it —TERRY ROSS found there many afternoons, along was nothing but woods, dirt, with Daniel’s children, Harrison, swamps, and lakes.”

Emerson, and Allison. Chris also has a son, Christian, who He later went to work for his uncle before breaking out is working in the commercial division and recently became on his own with Ross Plumbing. Today, after more than a certified med gas installer, and a 3-month-old daughter, 35 years in business, he has developed many longtime Berkley, who has stolen the heart of all the office personnel. relationships with customers, contractors, and employees.

“I think what sets us apart is how we treat people “We do a lot of repeat business with customers,” Terry like family,” Clint says of the company’s approach to says. “Once we do a job for a customer, whether it’s a customer service. general contractor building a nine-story hotel or a service Despite the family history in the industry, Terry and customer with a dripping faucet, we build their trust and Clint say they didn’t necessarily set out to become they end up choosing us again and again.” plumbers—but they’re glad they did.

“We’ve met a lot of nice people through the con“I get to go to work with my dad, mom, wife, and struction industry,” adds Daniel, the company’s service grandpa every day,” Clint says with a smile. manager. He’s one of the longtime employees and even That’s part of the proud tradition, expert service, lived with the Rosses throughout high school, becoming and professionalism that Ross Plumbing provides to part of their family. This year marks 25 years with Ross customers every day.

Plumbing for Daniel.

ROSS 352.728.6053

Lionel

Danny

PLUMBING

terryrossplumbing.com

Carlton

Terry

930 Thomas Ave #1, Leesburg

Clint

Chris

S D N E TR

E M O H that hit

38

lakeandsumter

.com

FARMHOUSE DESIGNS,

OPEN FLOOR PLANS, AND

GREEN FEATURES ARE TODAY'S BUILDING BLOCKS. STORY: JAMES COMBS, LEIGH NEELY, CHRIS GERBASI, AND THERESA CAMPBELL

B

etween retirees moving to Florida and more millennials entering the market, plenty of new homebuilding trends have emerged. Homeowners are requesting must-haves in their homes, placing added pressure on homebuilding companies to be more innovative and adaptable.

Joe Ziler, owner of Eustis-based Kevco Builders, is familiar with some of the homebuilding trends across the state.

“What I’m seeing now in Florida are all things I saw happening in Tennessee when I was working in home construction,” he says. “People are bringing their influences from up North here to our state.”

He shares a list of homebuilding trends that likely will become even more popular in the coming years:

DOWN ON THE FARM You may not see goats, sheep, and cattle, but homes with a farmhouse design are in high demand. In this fastpaced, high-tech world, farmhouses conjure up memories of simpler times and give homeowners a feeling of being connected to the country’s history.

“People love contemporary farmhouse looks that have hardy siding, metal roof accents, front porches, vintage lighting, and rustic beams,” Joe says. “They gravitate toward that to get away from the typical Florida stucco look, especially in this part of

A KEVCO BUILDERS HOME AT THE LAKE SENECA RESERVE IN EUSTIS.

March 2019

39

Florida where farmhouses blend in beautifully with the scenery. What’s old is new again.”

ARE YOU FUR REAL? One of the more fun trends in homebuilding is the addition of pet-washing stations. That’s right, homebuyers are expanding their laundry rooms to add extra space where a dog can step over a low curb and into a small shower. Pet owners use a hand-held shower head to bathe their furry friends.

“I built about six of them last year,” Joe says. “People take great care of their pets these days.”

40

lakeandsumter

.com

FIREPLACES ARE HOT Yes, on those rare days when Florida experiences freezing temperatures, a simple touch of the thermostat provides eventual relief. That doesn’t mean fireplaces are functional dinosaurs. Many homeowners are choosing them for décor rather than heat.

“Nearly 70 percent of homes I built last year had a fireplace, and some customers even wanted outdoor fireplaces,” Joe says. “People like the ambiance and use them as the focal point of a room.”

ON A HIGH It is very common to have ceilings as high as 11 feet in the main living areas. A room with a high ceiling has more volume than one with a standard ceiling height.

“Your public space is where you spend the majority of time in your home, so it’s only natural you want to

make it feel larger,” he says. “People also like putting ceiling beams in their home, and in order to get the beam features, you have to raise the ceiling.

Meanwhile, bedrooms are becoming smaller because homebuyers want the majority of space given to the main living area.”

COUNTERING GRANITE For high-end countertops, more and more people are choosing quartz, which is hardy, lasts a long time, and is easier to maintain than granite.

“Quartz has become the standard,” Joe says. “People like that quartz produces a smooth, more consistent

Nearly

70% OF HOMES I BUILT LAST YEAR HAD A

FIREPLACE, AND SOME CUSTOMERS EVEN WANTED

OUTDOOR FIREPLACES. —JOE ZILER

look than granite. In addition, they also like that it requires less maintenance because you don’t have to seal it.”

TIMELESS FEATURES

AUTOMOBILES ARE STEERING DECISIONS Americans’ love affair with their automobiles is influencing homebuilding trends, as there is an increasing demand for three-car garages. In other words, if you’re a car, you’ll never have to worry about a housing crisis in this country.

“Three-car garages have become extremely popular,” he says. “Everyone has at least two vehicles, and they need additional space for their lawnmowers, bicycles, and other stuff.”

E

co Construction Group builds custom homes that are energy-efficient and built to the homeowner’s exact specifications for comfort and style. Bobby Rhodes is president of the company that was founded in 2008.

A native Floridian, he has always lived in Lake County and graduated from Florida State University.

“Right now, we’re seeing people who want custom homes with the timeless features that can’t be dated,” Bobby says. “There are certain homes you see,

and you know they were built in the ’80s, but we’re trying to help our clients achieve something you can live in a long time that you can’t put a date on.”

With the cost of energy steadily rising and natural resources declining, Bobby and his company have carefully studied what makes a home or project “green.” The Environmental Protection Agency even developed a way to avoid energy waste with Energy Star. This is a symbol, supported by the government, that assures

March 2019

41

consumers they’re getting information that is correct and precisely developed.

“We work with a higher standard than Energy Star,” Bobby says. “People are building with sustainability in mind, using solar power and being sure their homes are energy-efficient.”

Bobby says every home built by Eco Construction is designed with the family and all of their daily routines in mind. It means the homeowners must be a part of the process; they must be involved in thinking about how the home is built and what is essential to family comfort.

“Most of our homes are a blend of old and new. I would say rustic/modern, meaning clean lines with rustic appeal,” Bobby says.

“People like to go rustic and finish it with that minimalist look. Ornate has fallen to the wayside.”

Since the kitchen is usually the heart of the home, Bobby says there are

42

lakeandsumter

.com

always new features going into kitchens. Many people are looking for a more open kitchen and adding more natural lighting.

“Instead of having everything on the counter, people are having places built to put everything,” he says. “It’s the same with bathrooms, so there’s no clutter around.”

A new trend that Bobby especially enjoys is concrete

countertops. They’re one of the biggest trends for homebuilding and remodeling in 2019. Homeowners can choose rough-hewn or refined. Many companies offer sustainable versions of concrete with a high percentage of recycled content.

“We do concrete countertops with fiber optics built in,” Bobby says.

“You can have lights and music for different seasons

It looks like

STONE UNTIL YOU TOUCH IT, AND THEN

YOU REALIZE IT’S NOT. IT’S

MORE RUSTIC WITH A MODERN FLAIR. —BOBBY RHODES

and holidays. It sets a nice atmosphere when you’re having a party. The fiber optics provide color and a different texture to your kitchen.”

Back-lit stair risers using black onyx and LED lighting is another favorite feature of Bobby’s.

“It looks like stone until you touch it, and then you realize it’s not. It’s more rustic with a modern flair that’s more than the typical farmhouse décor,” he adds.

Many of the homes Eco Construction Group is building are ultra-custom.

People want a modern home but with traditional colors like the dark woods that bring warmth into a modern house that sometimes can be viewed as cool.

With the rise in hurricanes and storms, more people are looking to include backup power in their custom homes.

Whether it’s solar or generators run by diesel, propane, or natural gas, they want to know they don’t have to go extended periods without power.

Bobby understands building a home is more than creating a structure in which to live. It’s important in these times to be aware of the family needs along with the home’s environmental impact.

EVER-CHANGING IDEAS

E

very customer who walks in the door at American Family Homes represents a new design opportunity for owner and president Mike Neace and his homebuilding team.

And those customers come well-prepared with ideas from a variety of sources.

“We’re constantly seeing everyone’s ideas and they’re always changing,” Mike says. “They’re piecing together their ideal home, and that’s how we’re able to stay on top of what’s coming and what’s here. It seems that typically we know about trends before they become real popular.”

American Family Homes, based in Eustis, designs and

builds custom homes primarily in Lake County, along with Sumter, Orange, Seminole, and Volusia counties.

While the “modern farmhouse” design continues to trend, Mike says it’s more often in combination with a “craftsman” style to create a different look. The farmhouse look typically includes plenty of wood, paneling, plank floors, whitewashed palettes, and vintage touches, while the craftsman style is noted for tapered columns, lap siding, stone porch supports, and low-pitched roofs.

“It’s two styles kind of coming together with certain aspects of each,” he says. “I believe the past 12 months

It’s

TWO STYLES KIND OF COMING TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN

ASPECTS OF EACH. —MIKE NEACE

or so, we’re seeing people looking at that. I think, like most trends, it’ll last five years or so and then we’ll start seeing something else emerge.”

White exteriors with brick are making a comeback after years of grays, greens, light yellows, and beiges, Mike says. On the interior, the concept of an open kitchen with a large island and a great room has been a trend

for the past two to three years and remains alive and well, Mike says. Tile that looks like wood has become a popular choice in the past year or so.

Customers are also seeking “greener” energy-efficient features, such as solar panels, and ways to keep their families safer. Mike usually sees a cyclical interest in severe-weather safe rooms after major storms, such as

March 2019

43

It used to be the

Hurricane Irma, which seriously impacted Lake County in September 2017. His company constructs safe rooms based on plans provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“More typically, they’re a master closet or a pantry,” he says. “We can incorporate one of your rooms that you already have (designed) and fortify it to be a safe room.”

Other severe-weather features include generator systems that run on gas or propane when electrical power goes out, which is when solar panels also come into play. One out of three or four homebuyers are looking for these types of features in his company’s designs, Mike says.

While American Family Homes exclusively builds new homes, GrangerCarter Construction & Development in Eustis does a lot of remodeling work, and owners see many of the same trends in both remodeling and new construction.

“Most of the projects we are doing are modernizing and updating dated looks,” says Mike Carter, who co-owns the company with Rob Granger. “The largest trend that we see is that our projects are going for a ‘large open room’ look. People seem to be moving away from separate ‘living’ rooms back into the ‘great’ room concept.”

Customers also are choosing lighter and brighter colors, and windows for natural lighting on most projects, and basically all electrical fixtures have LED energyefficient lighting.

Most of Granger-Carter’s customers want to do more “green” building as well, but cost is a factor. Many of the company’s projects contain green properties, Mike says, but obtaining the green rating/certification typically becomes more costly than many customers are willing to pay.

44

lakeandsumter

.com

BIGGER THE HOME, THE BETTER.

BUT WITH THE ‘TINY HOME’ MOVEMENT AND A FOCUS ON FEWER, BETTER THINGS,

SHRINK MORE AND MORE. I THINK WE’LL SEE SQUARE FOOTAGE

—JOEY WEST

SIZE MATTERS

T

he farmhouse look and décor have been extremely popular, and Joey West, co-owner of West Construction Services Inc. in Eustis, predicts some of the style elements will still be trendy in 2019.

“Pieces of it will remain, like using more natural materials in the home, industrial accents, and an open floor plan, which is swiftly becoming a standard,” he says, adding many customers seek trim work as décor, including taller baseboards, shaker doors, and crown molding to dress up a space.

West Construction has noticed a growing request for smaller cottages with

a “homey” feel, and Joey expects this to continue.

“It used to be the bigger the home, the better,” he says. “But with the ‘tiny home’ movement and a focus on fewer, better things, I think we’ll see square footage shrink more and more.”

Of course, some clients want spacious homes.

“We are working on a beautiful Andalusian/ Spanish Colonial-style home right now, which hasn’t been as popular but is certainly sticking around,” Joey says.

Open floor plans remain very much in demand.

“We continue to see a desire for an open floor plan that often bleeds into the outdoors,” Joey says. “Quite a few of our

current and recent projects include extensive outdoor living spaces that blend well with their adjoining indoor space.”

Colorful walls over neutrals are requested, too.

“We’ve seen a lot of neutral color palettes in the past years, but more and more, we are seeing richer colors joining the palette,” Joey says. “Think gemstone hues, especially greens and darker blues. A lot of colorful geometric patterns are also finding their way into the fold, usually in the form of kitchen backsplashes and bathroom tile. And, perhaps a bit contradictorily, black and white themes are gaining popularity.”

As a custom homebuilder, West Construction works

with those clients who are looking to personalize their homes.

“Oftentimes, we begin with a set of plans either we or the homeowner presents, and then we modify to fit their specific needs,” Joey says.

Many building trends are influenced by customers’ wish lists.

“We’re living in the age of Pinterest,” Joey says. “More than ever, the homeowner is able to influence the style of their home by bringing us ideas they’ve found online. Secondly, I’d say the wellness movement is influencing the style of homes by influencing the materials we use to build, and the idea of a ‘healthy’ home is starting to take root.”

Smart homes, “green” building materials, quality flooring, custom built-ins, and outdoor living spaces are top requests.

“Some people want the traditional builder model,” Joey says. “They tell us what they want, and we build it. But more often, clients want to be involved in the building process, and sometimes, they want to do some of the work themselves.”

For do-it-yourselfers who want to be involved, West Construction offers a shellconstruction model.

“It’s a cost-effective approach for ownerbuilder clients who prefer to be hands-on but are more comfortable with a professional handling the

structural elements of the project,” Joey says.

He notes a common misconception is that it’s too costly to build a home.

“Sometimes, you can even save money,” Joey says. “With our construction-management model, the homeowner is in complete control of how much they want to spend, and we can often help to keep costs down where applicable. When you buy a home, you are paying for what is already there, regardless of whether you might have chosen something different.

With building, you pay for what you want, and none of what you don’t.”

March 2019

45

It takes a FAMILY PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

“Getting to know you” is the theme of every home West Construction builds. It’s a shared project between the homebuyer and the construction company.

“We’re a family business, a small business, and the people you sign your contract with are the people who are building your home, the ones you see on your jobsite every day,” says Joe West of the company Dale West founded 30 years ago. “We soothe the stresses and worries of building a house and make it as easy and smooth as possible.”

Any style of home you want— Country, Spanish, or Modern—can be

46

lakeandsumter

.com

built to your specifications. Everyone at West Construction has their areas of specialty and can fit their expertise with the home buyer’s needs.

“Each homeowner is important to us, no matter the size of the project,” adds Joe West. “People see plans on Pinterest or in plan books, and we can take that and make it work for them, tweak it to their needs and customize their home.

I personally really enjoy turning their ideas into something solid.”

Building custom homes within a homeowner’s budget is easily attainable with West Construction Services. They offer a variety of options to allow the homeowner to pay less in one area and use that extra money in another area.

“We’re not trying to up-sale you,” Briana West says. “We want to do what you want to do. When we’re building your home, you pay for what you want, not for what you don’t.” With West Construction, building a custom home doesn’t need to be a dream that seems out of reach.

Dale West and his team sincerely believe that “Building a home is much like building a relationship,” according to their website. This kind of service requires honesty, integrity,

“People see plans on Pinterest or in plan books, and we can take that and make it work for them, tweak it to their needs and customize their home. I personally really enjoy turning their ideas into something solid.”

— JOE WEST

and attention to detail, as well as trust between both parties.

Between the three contractors working with West Construction Services, they have more than 60 years of combined experience.

This kind of experience and expertise makes the company stand out and ensures the services they offer are the very best.

Joe says a popular model they use is their shell and management contract. They start with a fi rm price on the shell, and then a management contract for the rest of the project that allows the homeowner to be involved every step of the way. “We work directly with the homeowners when they go to suppliers, and they choose exactly what they want, which lends itself to a customhome experience,” he adds.

“They’re in the showroom picking things out, but they still have the advantage of our guidance,” Briana says. “Our experience allows us to help homeowners pick fi nishes and products that are suitable to both the look they desire and their lifestyle.”

One thing Joe says customers can count on is everything getting ordered, scheduled and in place to ensure the project is completed on time. According to Consumer Federation of American, one of the biggest consumer complaints is contractors and builders who fail to start or complete a job on time. That won’t happen with West Construction Services.

In the 2018 Parade of Homes, West Construction Services received three awards: 1st Place under $200,000; 1st Place $750,000-$800,000; and the Realtors Choice Award.

In addition to building new homes, the company also does additions, commercial construction, remodeling, and tenant buildouts. Licensed and certified, West Construction Services is also a member of Home Builders of Lake-Sumter and has a Green Advantage Environmental certification. The contractors are also certified and trained in Polysteel Form Construction.

When you’re looking to build a new home in Lake or Sumter County, look no further than West Construction Services, a contractor you can count on.

352.989.7757

1004 N. Donnelly St., Mt. Dora WestConstructionFL.com CBC057387

March 2019

47

IT’S A PARADE! The 2019 Parade of Homes promises new home styles, amazing home technologies, and a variety of places to live.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

48

lakeandsumter

.com

HARBOR HILLS DEVELOPMENT, CANARY II

B

uilders of Lake and Sumter counties are making preparations for the 2019 Parade of Homes coming March 30-April 7 in various locations.

For the fourth consecutive year, Harbor Hills Country Club in Lady Lake is the “Dream Community,” spotlighting its newest development, Bella Vista.

“We’re highlighting a new model called the Canary II,” says Michael Rich, president of Harbor Hills Development. “Keep in mind, however, that we allow homeowners to customize their homes.”

The homes at Harbor Hills feature the latest in style, energy efficiency, and home technology. Michael says the development’s goals are affordable pricing and great customer service.

Harbor Hills offers the lakeside country club lifestyle. Residents are close to great shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. The lush, green rolling hills and panoramic views of Lake Griffin make it an ideal place for retirement with beautiful singlefamily homes and maintained villas.

Last year’s Parade of Homes was an overwhelming success for

LAST YEAR’S PARADE OF HOMES WINNER, MEDALLION HOME

Medallion Home, which won “Best in Show” with the top overall score.

Presented every year by the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter and a variety of local sponsors, this event is popular among locals and visitors to the area.

The 2018 Parade of Homes included more than 20 entries from top builders in the area. Not only did Medallion’s Lakes of Mount Dora receive top honors, it also was named one of the “Top 50 Best MasterPlanned Communities in the United States” by Where to Retire magazine.

Dominick Donato, president of Medallion Home Building Division, is excited about what the company is doing now.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled for the company and our customers. We work so hard to create these custom homes,” he says. “We have our architectural team, a design team, and we’re personally involved to show them what they can do with their own home.”

In learning about the people and lifestyles in Mount Dora, Dominick noticed many of them enjoyed

motorcycles as a hobby. He felt the one-car garage homes needed something a little extra.

“We created, with the approval of the city of Mount Dora, a solid plate-glass wall that showcases their motorcycles and workspace,” Dominick says. “There’s nice furniture and maybe a workbench, but it’s elegant and tasteful, on either side of the glass.”

Priced in the mid-$200,000s, the two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes can have up to 3,252 square feet with two or three bathrooms. They also feature two- or three-car garages. Most of the sites have a view of the water or they’re on the waterfront.

“We never expect customers to take everything that’s in the model, but the model triggers potential things we can provide,” Dominick says. “People know by looking at that model with the one-car garage, if we can do that, we can do anything.”

2019 Parade of Homes March 30-April 7 presented by Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter

March 2019

49

STILL LIVING THE

DREAM

* The Home

Builders Association of LakeSumter Dream Community Builder for the fourth straight year.

50

lakeandsumter

.com

Harbor Hills Country Club builds on its success.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

L

iving at Harbor Hills Country Club is like a recurring dream that just keeps getting better and better.

Harbor Hills, a premier custom homebuilder and golf community in Lady Lake, has been named the “Dream Community” in the Home Builders Association of LakeSumter’s Parade of Homes for an unprecedented fourth straight year.

But Harbor Hills isn’t resting on its laurels. The development is still growing and improving. A new, inventive model, Canary II, is Harbor Hills’ entry in the Parade of Homes scheduled

for March 30-April 7. And the second phase of Bella Vista at Harbor Hills, opened within the past year, enhances the appeal of the resortstyle community.

Harbor Hills’ picturesque location features scenic winding roads, peaceful open spaces, nature landscaping, and the safety of a gated community. Neighborhoods are distant from crowds and traffic, yet still close enough to shopping, medical facilities, and entertainment.

The development offers a variety of floor plans, energyefficient homes, great customer service, and affordable pricing

without the amenity fees of other communities.

Harbor Hills Country Club consists of about 680 homes and will reach a total of 949 at build-out, says Michael Rich, president and general partner of Harbor Hills Development.

More than 20 different model homes range from 1,580 to 3,282 square feet, and are priced from the mid-$200,000s to over $1 million.

Custom-built homes using the best American-made materials are a specialty at Harbor Hills.

“We customize homes to our customers’ wants and needs,” Michael says. “We will make

changes to the existing floor plans, which is something that today’s customer really wants.”

Canary II, which sells from $358,900, is an expansion of Harbor Hills’ bestselling model.

It’s an open floor plan with a large center island social kitchen, casual dining area and giant family room. The master suite features an every day spa, an enormous walk thru Roman Shower and lots of natural light.

The two guest bedrooms each have their own attached, private bathroom perfect for entertaining overnight company, in-laws, or other family members. There is a separate den with a large walk in closet that can double as a fourth bedroom.

“The kitchen is now the social point of the home,” Michael says. “We design kitchens that

Homes are made with brand-name products, including CertainTeed roofing shingles, Clopay garage doors, LiftMaster garage door openers, and Energy Star-rated, double-pane low-E windows, Michael says. Front doors made by Plastpro come with a 25-year warranty, and pavers are used instead of poured concrete, which tends to crack under the hot Florida sun.

“We try to use products that are going to provide maintenance-free living to our homeowners,” Michael says. “We also try to use products that we know the companies are going to stand behind their material and their workmanship.”

Harbor Hills homes are designed to be highly energyefficient. HERS, the Home Energy Rating System, assigns homes a performance score;

is rated 4 stars by Golf Digest.

The course is designed with scenic elevations, panoramic views of Lake Griffin, and extra-wide, oak treelined fairways.

The clubhouse amenities include tennis courts, pickleball courts, a junior Olympic pool, a fitness facility, and a pro golf shop. In an ongoing special promotion, anyone who buys a new home receives three years of free social tennis membership. Club members may dine at The Signature Grill, which serves favorite dishes and hosts special events and social gatherings. Harbor Hills also has a private marina, dock, and boat ramp for access to the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Residents also can expect to see Michael and his team walking through Harbor Hills on a regular basis.

are becoming an integral part of the home. This is where the majority of the social interaction of the family takes place.”

Bella Vista is built at the highest point of the property and offers panoramic views.

Bella Vista is a private, gated enclave within the community, so visitors must pass through two gates to reach the area. All visitors to Harbor Hills must stop at manned gatehouses with controlled gate arms, so no one can enter undetected.

the lower the number, the more energy-efficient the home.

Harbor Hills homes are rated in the low 60s, Michael says.

That’s well below the scores for Energy Star homes (70), the average new home (100), or the average pre-owned home (130).

“This winds up saving you 20 to 30 percent on your energy bill,” he says.

Of course, Harbor Hills also has a luxurious clubhouse as the centerpiece for a par-72 championship golf course that

“We have a lot of pride and a lot of passion for delivering a great home,” Michael says.

“We’re not a cookie-cutter builder. We build homes the old-fashioned way: one at a time.”

Harbor Hills Country Club is a dream come true, with high-quality homes that reflect residents’ personal style, along with first-class amenities and superior customer service.

Let Harbor Hills build your dream house.

* We’re not

a cookiecutter builder.

We build homes the oldfashioned way: one at a time.

— MICHAEL RICH

Harbor Hills Country Club

6538 Lake Griffin Road, Lady Lake 32159 352.753.7000 harborhillsclub.com

March 2019

51

A new of

Lennar is drawing up plans to revive a lakefront site in Mount Dora.

STORY: CHRIS GERBASI // PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

52

lakeandsumter

.com

the grand opening for two model homes, and the original builder, AR Bailey Homes, posted information about the event on social media. The

to have boat access to the lake via the canal.

The development debuted with much fanfare in June 2016 when Mount Dora city officials attended

G 452

j j

j

G 500A

j

V U 44B

j

Downtown Mount Dora

441 £ ¤

j

j

j

j j

Lake Dora

V U 46

Old Hwy 441

started in 2015, called for about three dozen two-story houses with four to five bedrooms each.

Dora Parc is on the west side of Clayton Street between two other subdivisions, Chautauqua to the north and Elysium to the south, and about a mile walk to downtown Mount Dora. The lone street is Dora Parc Lane, an oval backing up against a small canal and a heavily wooded area. Visitors get a panoramic view of Lake Dora from the Clayton Street entrance, and future homeowners are expected

N. Clayton St.

I

t would be a shame to waste an elevated, scenic view of Lake Dora.

So Lennar Homes isn’t going to let that happen.

The Miami-based homebuilder recently purchased the dormant Dora Parc site at 1120 S. Clayton St. in Mount Dora. Though no official details had been released as of late January, Lennar’s “Coming Soon” sign at the site indicates that single-family homes will be constructed on the small lakefront, hillside property. The original plan for the development,

j

Lake Beauclair

March 2019

53

A FORMER MODEL HOME AT DORA PARC

Kissimmee-based builder also constructed entrance walls along Clayton Street labeled with “Dora Parc,” a brick-paved entry road into the gated community, partial sidewalks, and a brick walkway meandering through the site.

Bailey offered four customized home options of 2,500 to 4,000 square feet, along with private boathouses on the canal, starting from the low $500,000s, according to doraparc.com. After the first two homes were built, however, Dora Parc stalled.

In January, workers from Brockman Construction, based in Oviedo, started moving mounds of dirt across the previously

54

lakeandsumter

.com

sodded property, presumably to adjust the grading on the hillside.

Four rows of homes will be built along Dora Parc Lane, a Brockman worker says.

Information about new floor plans, square footage, pricing, and a construction timeframe were not immediately available, Lennar sales consultants said. But one of the model homes, at 1275 Dora Parc Lane, is up for sale, and a real estate website listing may give insight into the potential designs of the new houses.

The 4,000-square-foot house with four bedrooms and five baths is listed for $464,000, and described as “stunning with designer

touches throughout, fabulous views, and direct water access to Lake Dora (Harris Chain of Lakes) via community boat slip.”

Features include a kitchen with quartz counters and a large island, built-in gas stainless appliances, a convection wall oven, wood cabinets, and a butler’s pantry. The great room includes a tiled gas fireplace and a secondstory balcony overlooking a pool, hot tub, and patio area with views of Lake Dora. The master bedroom has a spa bathroom with soaking tub, and a large separate shower. Other rooms include a den/ office with French doors and a large window,

a wine alcove with a decorative steel door, and a game room.

Lennar also pledges that “everything’s included” in the new “dream homes” at Dora Parc. Lennar provides connectivity with a Wi-Fi certified home, including Amazon Echo Show, Ring Video Doorbell, and Samsung SmartThings; efficiency with green building features such as Energy Star appliances, WaterSense faucets, and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint; luxury fixtures and appliances like upgraded tile flooring, GE washers and dryers, and Moen kitchen and bath fixtures; and extended services including online resources, mortgage and title services, and a new home trade-up program.

Lennar is accentuating Dora Parc’s idyllic setting and surrounding features, such as parks and conservation areas, leisure choices, Mount Dora’s historic downtown filled with boutiques and antique shops, the Mount Dora Lighthouse, and the Palm Island Boardwalk, as well as its proximity to Orlando.

At one point, the Dora Parc site had colorful penguin statues at the entrance to greet visitors.

The penguins were commissioned from a European artists group as a nod to the vibrant art community of Mount Dora.

The penguins are gone from Dora Parc, but the development marches on with a new leader.

Grand Oaks Manor Beautiful luxury to value-priced homes with designer touches make this an ideal neighborhood to call home.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

“O

h wow!”

Those two words are what Cindy Shackleton, a licensed sales agent, hears the most when she shows the beautiful homes in Grand Oaks Manor on County Road 472, near The Villages.

“Our goal is to build homes for people that fulfill the desires of their hearts,” says Cindy as she shows impressive upgrades in the Willow model, winner of three Parade of Homes’ awards. The home features an appealing indooroutdoor living area, spacious kitchen with a passthrough window to the outdoor kitchen, high ceilings, and totally retractable patio doors.

Style magazine toured the gorgeous home along with the new Caroline model,

an attractive value-priced home of 1,624 square feet built with designer touches that are standard features, including crown molding on kitchen cabinets, doublesink bathroom vanities and decorative paver driveways.

The Caroline can be built with a second floor to make it a four bedroom home with three and one-half baths. It’s 2,400 square feet.

“Whatever you want, we can build it for you. We aim to please,” Cindy says, adding Grand Oaks Manor is developed by seasoned builder Milton S. Jennings of South Florida.

There is no age restriction in Grand Oaks Manor so it is a perfect neighborhood for singles, retirees, and Villages

employees who live with their families.

Cindy happily calls Grand Oaks Manor her home.

“From what I was paying in The Villages and what I’m paying here for the same size house, I have a stronger and much upgraded home,” says the former Villager, noting her monthly $150 homeowners’ fee covers lawn mowing and community amenities of the fitness center, saltwater pool, clubhouse with a catering kitchen, and pickleball courts.

There are also two dog parks and a children’s playground for residents. But, there is no bond.

Visit grandoaksmanor.com or call 352.748.1773. This could be the perfect home you’ve been looking for!

Grand Oaks Manor

4594 CR 472, Oxford 352.748.1773 GrandOaksManor.com

Buena Vista Blvd. to Rainey Trail/CR472, 2 miles on right OR Take Rt 301 to CR472, 1 mile on left

March 2019

55

THE BARCELONA III

B Discover the Kevco Difference, March 30-31 & April 6-7 While Fox Business, Inc. Magazine and The Orlando Business Journal have recognized Kevco Builders for its extraordinary growth as a business, Kevco president Joe Ziler knows his company’s success, awards and recognition are entirely driven by customer satisfaction and referrals.

Since 1980, Kevco Builders has been setting the standard for stability, flexibility, quality and value. As Central Florida’s most award winning - and Lake County’s #1 custom home builder (based on 2018 new construction starts) - Kevco Builders prides itself of its approach to the process, its customer relationships and communication.

Whether bringing your own architectural plans, customizing one of Kevco’s from its extensive collection of standard and Energy Smart® floor plans, or starting from scratch with our exclusive in-house 2D/3D digital design specialist, Kevco can make your dream home a reality.

At the same time, Kevco also believes in maximizing the value of your investment. From upgraded baseboard and trim work to granite counters, the list of Kevco’s “Standard CBC #1262458

KevcoBuilders.com

|

Upgrades” impresses the most savvy and costconscious homeowner.

From retirees to growing families, your lot or one of theirs, your Kevco home is designed to suite your needs, wants, lifestyle and budget.

“After we bought our lot, we started to meet with builders. We visited a Kevco home and our Realtor pointed out all the quality and “Standard Upgrades” throughout. When we met with Joe and his team, there was great communication, accountability and just an overall great vibe.”

-The Katz Family, Kevco Homeowners

“We never take for granted how we got here,” says Ziler. “The experience of building your custom home will linger for years. When someone asks one of our homeowners about their Kevco experience, their answer will define our next customer’s expectations and perpetuate our reputation for honesty and quality - something we strive for every day, on every project.”

Facebook.com/KevcoBuilders

|

352.742.3398

Kevco Builders will once again be a featured custom homebuilder during the 2019 Lake & Sumter Parade of Homes

A

Come see why the Stirling is our #1 selling floor plan. Beautiful views from the master, great room, nook and den, as well as a gourmet kitchen that flows into the main living area. A special bonus room can be used for a man-cave, she-space, or family game room.

B

Our Barcelona III is a 2800 sq. ft. reimagined interpretation of our 2018 award winner.

Featuring an open floor plan, kitchen island with quartz countertops and extensive trim work with upgraded door casing and crown molding in all the main areas. Beautiful stone accents on the exterior enhance the architectural style of Kevco’s signature spa-like master bath with stacked stone shower.

For details, times and addresses, visit KevcoPOH.com

A THE STIRLING LAKE COUNTY’S #1 CUSTOM HOMEBUILDER

Window Reflections “When you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance.”

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

W

indow Reflections enjoyed its humble beginnings during a time when there wasn’t much around in Wildwood and the surrounding area. But that never stopped the company from being successful. In September 2019, Window Reflections will celebrate its 28th anniversary of proudly serving the community. For owner Roxanne Stafford, running a company was always about more than selling blinds. It was a business built off a dream and a passion for creating beautiful custom window treatments while raising her family. That passion continues burning stronger than ever.

“Everybody has a gift,” says Roxanne, a graduate of Wildwood High School. “I happen to have found mine early and just went with it. I’ve been lucky enough to make a living doing something I enjoy.”

A business that originally began in a small rented space within a local carpet shop

Alexa and Roxanne Staff ord

103 N Main Street, Wildwood 352.330.2055 windowreflections.net

58

lakeandsumter

.com

grew into a fully functioning workroom located in her home. Experiencing incremental growth each year, the business moved to a larger space at 103 N. Main St. in Wildwood. Despite the company’s success, Roxanne continues providing the same level of personalized, hometown service that customers expect from this small-town business.

At Window Reflections, one can browse through shades and shutters in the Hunter Douglas showroom, see a variety of drapery styles, board treatments, and valances displayed. They can customize bedding such as shams, duvet covers, bed skirts, pillows, etc.

While browsing, you can view the beautiful work of the company’s seamstresses, who have a combined 50 years of sewing experience.

They even offer in-home consultations

to help you bring your vision to life.

Roxanne is joyful that her dream will continue into the next generation. Her daughter, Alexa, is happily employed at Window Reflections and shares her mother’s philosophy of providing highly personal customer service. Alexa is equally passionate about the quality of products offered and attentiveness to detail.

Together, they are the perfect duo transforming homes one window at a time.

March 2019

59

Leesburg High School has learned one year can make a difference at a school.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

T

here’s a lot of buzz at Leesburg High School, and it’s about more than the great Yellow Jackets sports teams. The halls are filled with students who feel safer and happier, and know they not only have peer support but administrative support, too.

No school is an exception to the problem of bullying. Like most high schools, LHS deals with the issue almost daily. However, the reported incidents of bullying were quite low and that was a worrisome problem to Principal Michael Randolph. His goal was to make sure every student met the goal in the school’s mission statement: “Through our collective belief, skill, and will, each Leesburg High School student will graduate with the skills necessary for success in either college/university, a career, or the military.”

“I was involved with Leesburg High School and became very good friends with the principal,” David van de Velde says. “As a member of The Villages Rotary Club, I was active with the Interact chapter at the school.”

Interact is a program from Rotary International for young people ages 12-18 to help them develop leadership skills and learn the power of “Service Above Self.”

LHS has a thriving Interact Club.

“I knew we had to do something about bullying,” David says. “I came up with the idea for an anti-bully campaign and talked to Michael about it. I knew we needed to get in front of the issue before it ever started. Leesburg High School said they would be the pilot program for it. Now, we have gotten Leesburg High School and the

60

lakeandsumter

.com

PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

MELISSA BREADY

Rotary to do something that no one has ever done.”

Knowing the plan would require student-to-student communication, he looked for leaders in Interact to implement his plan, understanding peer pressure could be used in a positive manner.

“If I stand up in front of a group of students, it goes in one ear and out the other,” David says. “If a student stands up and says something, they listen.”

When he found Melissa Bready, who was working with the Interact group, he knew he had found his answer. She has been the key example of what a difference it can make to be part of such an endeavor. A student in the culinary program, she already is a part-time line cook at Arlington Ridge Chesapeake Grill.

Her story, however, wasn’t always so happy. She struggled with an unhappy home life and having no self-esteem;

she even began cutting herself. Her father was verbally abusive and disowned her when she was a junior.

Bereft and left with no hope, Melissa went through her house gathering pills and took every one she could find.

Fortunately, a friend found her before it was too late and saved her life.

With help from chef John Bell, head of the culinary program, David, and others involved with the school, she found her way to a better life.

“I found out being who I am, I have to keep myself busy to be happy,” Melissa says.

“She has leadership skills she didn’t realize she had,” David adds. “And she has been out front in everything we’ve done with the Pledge Against Bullying. We couldn’t have done what we’ve done without Melissa.”

“Through the times I was moving around, I was bullied a lot,” Melissa says. “The administration didn’t

TOGETHER, WE

CONNECT

Rotary unites problem solvers around the globe to do more good. Like the Pledge Against Bullying campaign that provides children a safe place to learn. Connecting to make communities stronger—that’s what people of action do.

If you would like to become a person of action, call 352.205.6194 or visit PledgeAgainstBullying.com

March 2019

61

PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

Through the times I was moving around, I was bullied a lot. The administration didn’t care. Kids like to pick on new kids.

It was just accepted.

—MELISSA BREADY

care. Kids like to pick on new kids. It was just accepted.”

Not anymore.

Throughout this school year, David and another Rotarian, Ira Nodelman, have added to the team of adults working with the program, and Melissa also has been at the forefront.

She speaks openly about her struggles and how her life has changed with help from John and David, whom she affectionately calls “Grandpa.”

The program is Pledge Against Bullying. Each student signs a card that reads, “End Bullying Pledge, Leesburg

62

lakeandsumter

.com

High School.” Their signature is witnessed by another student and dated.

These cards are put into plastic holders with chains so they can be attached to the student’s backpack and visible for all to see. David says the white tags attract attention and students ask about them, spreading the word.

In their research, David and his group have discovered most students feel they are the only one feeling

alone and left out of everything.

By taking the pledge and having the white tag on their backpack, they realize there are people all over the school who may have had the same problems or lack of selfconfidence they had.

To keep the kids interested and keep the program an active part of their school life, Rotary members have set up an office where they make buttons, create temporary tattoos, and work on other weekly incentives.

David has even established a plan that will allow the students and

OPPOSITE: LEESBURG HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL MICHAEL RANDOLPH, STUDENTS JALEN HODGE AND MELISSA BREADY, AND ROTARIAN DAVID VAN DE VELDE WERE INSTRUMENTAL IN DEVELOPING THE SCHOOL’S ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAM.

anyone else who wishes to participate to have their photos sent into space. It can be just for fun or even “in memory of” someone special. Email photos to pabworks@PledgeAgainstBullying.com for inclusion in this historic mission.

The mission statement of the Pledge Against Bullying is “to create and support an innovative new high and middle school club initiative to stop bullying before it starts.”

Since Rotary International’s theme is People of Action, Rotary District Governor Ron Janssen says, “Bullying is a universal problem. That’s why we must join with school administration, law enforcement, students, and members of Rotary.”

PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

RIGHT: STUDENTS DISPLAY ‘PLEDGE AGAINST BULLYING’ CARDS ON THEIR BACKPACKS.

David and Ira enlisted other students to help. Jalen Hodge, who had been president of Interact, saw the campaign as a chance to make a difference in her school and immediately became involved.

“It has made a big change in my high school,” Jalen says. “My first two years here were rough. I’m glad I’ve gotten to be a part of such a great program. I’m hoping it will last a long time. It’s good to hear my name in connection with something so good at my high school.”

Michael admits that getting students to report bullying is still the biggest hurdle.

“Students need to know what happens when they report bullying.

Where does the report go?” says Leesburg police Lt. Scott Mack. “Too many incidents are never reported properly. Then (students) go out into the community and feel bitter about

TOGETHER, WE

INSPIRE

Rotary unites problem solvers around the globe to do more good. Like the Pledge Against Bullying campaign that provides children a safe place to learn. Connecting to make communities stronger—that’s what people of action do.

If you would like to become a person of action, call 352.205.6194 or visit PledgeAgainstBullying.com

March 2019

63

talking to law enforcement.

But if it’s handled properly in the school, incidents are also reported in the community, and that’s positive reinforcement.”

Michael says LHS has added a secondary dean to deal with incident reports.

“We’re providing a safety net on the campus, and it’s important for us to react that way and act quickly, within 24 to 48 hours, so the kids don’t lose faith in us,” he adds. “We bring the kids together involved in the bullying incident and get to the root of the issue. This has been very positive. We’re going to be expanding the program next year, as well.”

HOW CAN YOU MAKE YOUR MARK AGAINST

BULLYING? STORY: MELISSA BREADY

Editor’s note: At age 15, Melissa attempted suicide. She is a speaker and leader for the Pledge Against Bullying campaign and wrote this to encourage fellow students.

Used with permission.

DON’T BE A BYSTANDER. When you see people being mean or someone getting picked on, stop ignoring it.

Help the victim get away from the bullies. Don’t let them stand alone. You never know how much that can mean. Help them report it if they are too worried.

STAND UP FOR YOURSELF. If you are ever

the victim, don’t take it. You are strong and deserve better. Tell them to stop and why it is not right. If it continues, report it to someone you trust.

TAKE THE PLEDGE AGAINST BULLYING. Be a part of the visible majority on campus.

Pledge to be the change you wish to see. You are

not alone. See PAB bag for more details.

SPREAD MORE POSITIVITY. To make a change, we must shift our attitudes and environment on campus.

Compliment people more, be thankful for everything, cherish your friends, and give out the energy you wish to receive.

ASK FOR HELP. Whatever is going on, do not allow yourself to stay in an uncomfortable situation.

If you ever find yourself in a bad situation and do not feel safe or happy, do not hesitate to ask someone for help. Ask now before it is too late.

JUDGE LESS. Don’t be so quick to react in a situation. You never know what someone may be going through. We all receive plenty of judgment from family and school.

There is no need to spread any more hate.

MAKE A FRIEND. Talk to someone you don’t know.

If you are struggling trying to find someone, look for a small white card on their backpack. That indicates they have taken the pledge and want to be a part of the positive change.

Or, if you see someone upset, talk to them. Don’t let anyone be alone.

TOGETHER, WE

TRANSFORM Rotary unites problem solvers around the globe to do more good. Like the Pledge Against Bullying campaign that provides children a safe place to learn. Connecting to make communities stronger—that’s what people of action do.

If you would like to become a person of action, call 352.205.6194 or visit PledgeAgainstBullying.com

64

lakeandsumter

.com

DISABILITY CONSULTANTS

HEARINGS ARE HELD IN OUR OFFICE! CHRIS BELL, A.D.R. + JEFF BELL, A.D.R.

Are you under 65 and unable to work?

352.326.5009 1 0 1 E B E R C K M A N S T, F R U I T L A N D PA R K 1 0 2 0 N E 8 T H AV E , O C A L A

ALSO OFFERING HELP WITH MEDICARE INSURANCE

PLEDGE AGAINST BULLYING • BETTER LEARNING ENVIRONMENT • INCREASED AWARENESS

• INCREASED ATTENDANCE

TOGETHER, WE

ATTENDANCE 88% LAST YEAR

92% NOW

END BULLYING Rotary unites problem solvers around the globe to do more good. Like the Pledge Against Bullying campaign that provides children a safe place to learn. Connecting to make communities stronger—that’s what people of action do.

If you would like to become a person of action, call 352.205.6194 or visit PledgeAgainstBullying.com

March 2019

65

Ignore What You’ve Heard

Contrary to what many believe, insurance may cover your hearing aids.

If you’re covered by: • BCBS Federal Employee • Empire Plan • UAW • Freedom Health • United Healthcare you may have benefits to take advantage of in 2019.

Call Today For Your FREE Hearing Screening & Consultation.* *Excludes diagnostic hearing test

352.728.2404 LakeENTHearing.com T H E V I L L AG E S • L E E S B U R G • TAVA R E S

F e at u r i n g

6 Moving South The Villages marches on.

Plus

2 Meet a Villager

Ron Miller takes on war.

4 Living Healthy

Aromatase Inhibitors treat cancer, but are the side effects worth it?

* MVESEtT yAlVeI L L A G E R

One novel becomes a series Three years ago, Ron Miller awoke at 3am and began writing his first novel.

STORY: PAULA F. HOWARD // PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

A *

n Army veteran, Ron Miller spent 27 years serving during the Vietnam and Desert Storm eras with extended time in Germany.

But it was in California where Ron received some of his greatest military experience. Stationed at the

When I discovered my ancestors fought in a historical battle in France called Saint-Aubin-du-Cormier, I became very interested in that time period.

— RON MILLER

160,000-acre Fort Hunter Liggett, he worked with units of Marines, Rangers, Special Operations, Black Ops, CIA, law enforcement and drug agencies, state

2

police, combat reserves, and firefighters.

“Still, I wanted to write a book about the humorous side of Army life and call it ‘Murphy’s Law’ because my mother’s name was Murphy, and I thought it could be very amusing,” says Ron, 77, of the Village of Springdale.

But the book Ron started one early morning was titled “The Spirits of Cimbri.” Before long, he wrote a sequel, “Attack on Cimbri.”

“When I discovered my ancestors fought in a historical battle in France called Saint-Aubin-duCormier, I became very interested in that time period,” he says. “So, the morning I began the novel, what came to me

was this heroic battle with Germanic, Danish, and Greek warriors fighting against the barbaric, unwashed hordes of that era.”

The book he thought would be about the Army instead follows the lives of patriots building a new country called Cimbri in the year 1488 on the shores of what is now the Baltic Sea. “I see the story in my head like a movie, and the words just keep coming.

Much of what I learned from my Army experience is used in my books,” Ron says. “I’m now writing the third one and even imagine two more novels before this story is over.”

Readers can find Ron’s books on amazon.com.

Surviving a loss is never easy.

A loss can change your life, and it can also affect your finances. Important decisions that impact the quality of your future should not be made at a time when your circumstances may be overwhelming.

The Lake Sumter Group at Morgan Stanley can work with you to help organize current financial assets, reassess financial goals and implement new investment strategies designed to help your financial well-being at this critical point in your life.

Call us today to learn more about how we can help you be prepared when your need may be greatest.

(l to r): Gregory, Nicole, Michael

The Lake Sumter Group at Morgan Stanley Gregory Prevatt, CLTC, CFP® Portfolio Management Director Senior Vice President Financial Advisor gregory.prevatt@ morganstanley.com

Michael Monteith, CFP® Senior Portfolio Manager Vice President Financial Advisor michael.monteith@ morganstanley.com

Nicole Silberstein Client Service Associate nicole.silberstein@ morganstanley.com 832 Lake Sumter Landing The Villages, FL 32162 352-751-7845 • 800-447-6036 fa.morganstanley.com/lakesumter

The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US.

© 2019 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

SEG012 CRC 2191882 10/18

CS 9456506 01/19

* IVNSTtHyE lV eI L L A G E S

A game player’s paradise Cards and board games keep Villagers sociable.

STORY: JOE ANGIONE

A

*

The new rage is called Joker.

It’s a deepstrategy card and board game that also includes marbles played with a sophistication that far exceeds Chinese checkers.

4

lthough many Villagers still golf, swim, ride bikes, and play pickleball, age does push us toward more sedentary activities such as cards and board games. There are so many to choose from that Villagers have formed 486 clubs devoted to playing America’s most popular games: poker, bridge, pinochle, chess, mahjong, pan, Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and some strange sounding games like euchre, samba, Infected, and the new rage called Joker. It’s a deepstrategy card and board game that also includes marbles played with a sophistication that far exceeds Chinese checkers.

Game playing often is a major activity at the more than 380 social clubs in The Villages.

Sometimes each table at these meetings will play a different board or card game. I’m not an avid game player, but I enjoy playing Joker in a monthly, very social game, and a favorite in my Village of Hacienda North.

It’s easy to learn and lots of fun when played just for fun—no cutthroat players allowed.

Villagers are known for an early-to-bed, earlyto-rise lifestyle. And TV watching doesn’t keep many of them up at night.

But, when traveling through any village after dark, those houses with

lights on usually are the ones playing a game with friends. Villagers are gamers morning, noon, and night.

Adding to the popularity of games is that Villagers come from diverse parts of the country and even from overseas, and they often bring with them new varieties of games for neighbors to enjoy.

Games help newcomers get a quick start on making friends in The Villages. It’s easy when they join a social club and then get “on board” at a game club featuring an activity they enjoy. And, unlike Las Vegas, nobody “loses their shirt” playing games in The Villages.

D eDicateD t o Y our G ooD t aste

Complimentary Tours & Wine Tastings Offered Daily.

Themed Festivals with Live Music Every Month.

March 22nd - 24th

Featuring a variety of Seafood, Arts & Crafts, Live Music, Wine, Food & Tours! And our Wine & Cheese Bar will be open each Festival!

For more information visit www.LakeridgeWinery.com/Events

19239 US 27 North • ClermoNt, Fl 34715 352-394-8627 • 1-800-768-WINe

HERE COMES

The Villages 6

Retirement community moves into Leesburg with its newest development.

STORY: PAULA F. HOWARD

R

unning a city takes a lot of know-how: how to grow the economy, how to keep people safe, how to keep them secure and happy, and how to handle wastewater, among other things.

In fact, planning to handle wastewater while also growing its tax base were two reasons the city of Leesburg accumulated several thousand acres of land in its southern region more than a decade ago.

The land came in handy. According to Al Minner, city manager, in late 2016, when The Villages was planning expansion, the developer began talking with the city of Leesburg, population 22,419. In October 2018, a land purchase was completed that eventually will total nearly 2,000 acres in the southern part of the city. It will become the future Village of West Lake, to be completed within the next few years.

The gross sale price was around $7.9 million for the initial 1,127 acres at $7,000 per acre, Al Minner says.

After reimbursements to the Environmental Protection Agency and other obligations, the net sales proceeds to the city is $4.5 million.

“We expect The Villages to start building some 2,500 homes within the next three years,” says the Leesburg city manager. “Our final evaluation is that we estimate the region will receive about $10.6 million in tax revenue, of which the city will net $2.6 million annually at buildout.”

Since the early 2000s, Leesburg planned for the 2,000 acres to be an industrial development near County Road 470. The city would create a multi-use complex for commercial growth to increase the city’s tax base while using the area for wastewater needs.

“I was hired to be city manager in 2014,” Al says.

“I was given a list of things the city officials wanted me to accomplish. Among the list was selling the

7

County Road 470 Master Plan project to manufacturing and other companies to come here and operate.”

However, Al soon learned the idea wasn’t selling.

“In the past dozen years, only one parcel of about 80 acres was sold to a concrete manufacturer who planned on bringing in about 50 jobs,” he says.

That was certainly not enough to fulfill the plans Leesburg had for the property.

Things changed, though, when the developer of The Villages came calling.

“I began thinking that Florida wasn’t really a competitor for creating industry and selling widgets, that we were really more of a service economy,” Al says.

“That’s what The Villages does so well.

They create lots of jobs, their tax values are high, and they create lots of spinoffs.”

Tax numbers for the original industrial development plan were projected to bring in $250 million of tax-based income for the city, but not receivable until after the first 10 years. This was due to planned tax abatement credits, and only if all parcels were sold to successful manufacturers.

Now, following the land sale to The Villages, the expected gross income is predicted to be $750 million within the next three to five years.

“It was really a no-brainer,” Al says.

“It was not difficult, therefore, to switch people’s thinking.”

Even so, it wasn’t simple to accomplish the sale.

“There was a lot of work involved to untangle this parcel. Most of the work came with a lot of due diligence on both sides. The property had been our effluent spray fields, and we had grant money (involved). So, we had to get a release on the property from the Environmental Protection Agency because there were some old covenants on it,” Al says.

8

“We had to get a mineral rights release.

We had to clear things through the Department of the Navy because of the bug spray facility. We had to rezone it.

There were a zillion steps to be cleared to make this development happen.”

And there was still the city’s wastewater needs. Every city must handle the wastewater that comes through plumbing, pipes, and everything associated with civilization. Therefore, every city must have a wastewater production facility.

“There are two byproducts from wastewater disposal: sludge and effluent clear water. The latter is valuable for irrigation purposes,” Al says. “It’s not drinkable water, it’s not potable, and our city’s wastewater volume also wasn’t large enough to make it worthwhile to sell and ship it elsewhere.

However, to The Villages, effluent water is very valuable because they have different needs.”

In the end, the sale of the land helped both parties.

“We used to just spray the clear water on our fields, but The Villages will now pipe it to their own areas for irrigation needs,” Al says. “And they will also send us their wastewater, which we will treat.”

There is another reason the sale worked.

“The Villages are the only ones who could both buy the property and take the effluent clear water. This is what actually opened up the property for development,” Al says. “It was too expensive for us to dispose of the effluent water any other way.”

The wastewater situation also was the reason Leesburg could not develop the property in the past.

“Now, The Villages (is) building a series of pipes to take our wastewater and send us theirs, which is another avenue of this

deal,” Al says. “Unless someone knows about building houses, they don’t know about all these other things that have to be considered.”

While The Villages initially bought 1,127 acres, a sale of the remaining acres will come later this year.

“I had to hold some acreage back because I have to store a certain amount of wastewater for another 90 days,” Al says.

Al believes this is not only one of the biggest economic development opportunities for the city of Leesburg but also for the entire region. His enthusiasm for the development is contagious.

“I mean, Lady Lake has been gangbusters with The Villages growth and Fruitland Park was a humongous asset for Lake County,” Al says. “This deal is equivalent to those. I think it’s going to be a net positive for us in revenue. It’s amazing tax growth and job creation.”

He refers to the increase in the service economy with the need for more restaurants, health-care professionals, teachers, and, during the construction phases, contractors, painters, plumbers, electricians, concrete workers, manufacturers of materials, and more.

“I think it’s a coup for the city,” Al says, “especially since our original plan for industrial growth never came.”

In the end, the financial impact to the city will benefit schools, city services, and the entire population as the city is revitalized with the increase in tax revenue.

“Everyone knows The Villages does a marquee job in everything they do,” Al says. “They do it first class, and now Leesburg is going to reap the benefits of that. I couldn’t be more excited. I think we’ve made a great partnership and I’m excited to see it finally start.”

“Lady Lake has been gangbusters with The Villages growth and Fruitland Park was a humongous asset for Lake County.

This deal is equivalent to those. I think it’s going to be a net positive for us in revenue. It’s amazing tax growth and job creation.”

— AL MINNER

9

10

11

* LVI VSItNyG lHeE A L T H Y

Reasons women stop aromatase inhibitors early While these drugs are definitely beneficial, the side effects can be difficult.

STORY: LEANN ZOTIS

F

or post-menopausal women diagnosed with hormone receptor positive breast cancer, the arrival of aromatase inhibitors on the medical scene helped restrict the progression or recurrence of breast cancer. Drugs in this class work to block estrogen from feeding the growth of renegade cancer cells. These drugs are anastrozole and tamoxifen.

However, even with effective treatment, a significant number of women, 40 percent by some estimates, choose to stop taking the medication earlier than recommended.

The choice comes down to dealing with the potential side effects.

Quality of life becomes important for women who,

at some point in their treatment, decide the riskversus-benefit profile does not tip in their favor.

There is definite medical evidence to support the effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors as the appropriate adjuvant therapy for women who survived surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy for their early diagnosis of hormone receptive positive breast cancer.

For those who cannot endure the side effects of these drugs, it is important to understand some compromise must be reached. Working to achieve an acceptable balance between the lifegiving benefits of drugs and the life-draining side effects is a major challenge in medicine.

Here are some reasons women stop taking aromatase inhibitors:

12

1 The most annoying and debilitating side effect of aromatase inhibitors may be joint pain. It can be mild or severe enough to cause limitations to function. Those who experience this go from vibrant, active women to painful restrictions in movements and ability to perform everyday activities. For those already dealing with issues from arthritis inhibitors, reactions may be worse.

4 Insomnia often plagues menopausal women. Adding an aromatase inhibitor can increase the incidence of sleepless nights.

Lack of restorative sleep impacts the quality of life, from ability to function at peak performance to uncharacteristic mood swings.

7 Aromatase inhibitors may affect the digestive system. Possible side effects include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, or loss of appetite affecting quality of life.

2

3

Women commonly complain about weight gain on these drugs. Though not life threatening, it can affect self-esteem. A diagnosis of breast cancer and the bodychanging effects of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy are hard enough to handle without additional pounds.

There also is the potential for hair loss. While most women do not lose their hair as with chemotherapy, a significant level of thinning may occur. Breast cancer survivors want to rebuild their image, not have it further depleted by medication.

5

6

For post-menopausal women in general, the natural drop in estrogen levels often leads to osteopenia or, more seriously, osteoporosis. Women taking aromatase inhibitors have heightened risk. Deficient estrogen supplies may lead to increased bone resorption and bone loss requiring additional medications to counteract the potential threat of suffering bone fractures later in life.

Is the threat of recurrence of cancer worth crippling osteoporosis?

Aromatase inhibitors have been blamed for depression, moodiness, and increased anxiety by many women. This change in mental outlook may be damaging.

8

9

A disturbing potential side effect for some women is a loss of libido. Sexuality is a very personal aspect of a woman’s sense of self, and for some, the loss of a close, intimate relationship with their spouse is an unacceptable compromise.

Hot flashes, cold sweats, swelling in hands and feet, leg cramps, and an assortment of other minor aches and pains plague women regularly during treatment.

Quality of life becomes important for women who, at some point in their treatment, decide the risk-versusbeneďŹ t proďŹ le does not tip in their favor.

13

* BVOSOtK yR lE VeI E W

* ‘Feed Your Soul’

“Body image and dieting are directly related. You can’t heal one without healing the other.”

—CARLY POLLACK

14

By Carly Pollack. Author advises to get off the diet roller coaster and begin self-healing for long-term change.

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

T

here are millions of diets (or so it seems) geared to help people lose weight, and while some do work, numerous dieters struggle with keeping unwanted pounds off.

It’s a wellknown topic to nutritional expert Carly Pollack, author of “Feed Your Soul: Nutritional Wisdom to Lose Weight Permanently and Live Fulfilled.”

She lived the vicious cycle of yo-yo dieting until she realized her negative thoughts were the roadblocks in her life.

“If we are brave and vulnerable enough to look more deeply

at what truly needs to be healed, we will have success eliminating our negative behaviors at their root,” Carly writes. “It is our minds that drive the eating bus. In fact, our thoughts drive every emotion we feel, and how we feel will dictate how we act. Unless we change the original thought/story, we will re-create the same painful pattern, a nightmarish, dietinduced ‘Groundhog Day.’” The author advises to work with, not against your body.

“Body image and dieting are directly related. You can’t heal one without healing the other,” she writes. “Your body is a walking reflection of the inner work and fulfillment you create.”

Carly advocates eating fresh, real, unprocessed foods.

“This means a fresh cookie from the bakery wins out over a packaged one,” she writes. “It doesn’t always have to be ‘healthy,’ but it should be real.”

She notes that when people begin to shift their thoughts to feeling truly fulfilled with love and the adventures life has to offer, then they no longer need to eat mindlessly to fill themselves up physically. She writes: “Food becomes a part of the way you experience life, but it is in balance, as are the other pleasures of your life.”

Medical, Cosmetic, and Surgical Dermatology

MacInnis Dermatology is a full service dermatology practice specializing in: • Skin cancer diagnosis and treatments • Leading-edge comprehensive medical dermatology • Personalized cosmetic and aesthetic treatments

All this is available from a compassionate, board certified medical team in a beautiful, comfortable environment.

Accepting new patients Call to make an appoinment today OF THE BEST

OF THE BEST

352.350.5230 | macinnisdermatology.com HOTLIST2018

OF THE BEST

WINNER

HOTLIST FINALIST

HOTLIST

The Villages | Leesburg | Mount Dora

we know making it easy to find flooring you'll love.

$500

OFF SHOWER

RENOVATION Please bring this ad/magazine to our showroom to obtain this offer.

The Floor Shoppe Family Owned & Community Trusted Since 1979 352.748.4811 | thefloorshoppe.com Wildwood Oaks Business Center 9815 N US Hwy 301, Wildwood Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 10am-2pm

15

Compassionate Pet Care From Your Other Family Doctor!

Services • New Puppy And Kitten Exams • Yearly Wellness Exams • Flea And Heartworm Prevention • Yearly Blood Screening • Maintaining A Healthy Geriatric Pet • Cold Laser Therapy • Regenerative Stem Cell Therapy

Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver

352.347.3900 // 10725 SE 36th Ave www.BelleviewVeterinaryHospital.com

68

THE TO-DO LIST //

70

IN CONCE RT //

72

LOCAL TALENT //

74

NEAR & FAR //

78

SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT //

80

67

HI , SOCIETY

On the Scene Dance students shine at Groveland studio.

SEE STORY on PG 72

* TOHnE TTOh- DeO SL cI S eT n e

March MARCH 2

A dash of art Enjoy the sun, artisans, and crafters at Wildwood Art in the Park, Wildwood City Hall Courtyard, 100 N. Main St., 9am-2pm. For info, call Erika, 352.461.0134.

MARCH 2

Eat and ride Planes, Trains, and BBQ will be at Wooton Park in Tavares with a free concert, an air show, train rides, BBQ vendors, a kids’ zone, and more! Free event, 9am-4pm, 100 E. Ruby St. MARCH 3

Delicate strength “Steel Magnolias” live at 3pm at the Clermont Performing Arts

Center, 3700 S. U.S. Highway 27. Call 352.394.4800 for info.

MARCH 3-4

Wouldn’t it be nice?

See the Beach Boys at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. Showtimes: 4 and 7pm. See thesharon.com for tickets.

MARCH 6-7

Abbey Road “Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles” is coming to The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages.

Showtimes: 4 and 8pm. See thesharon.com for tickets.

MARCH 7-10

Kids!

The Young People’s Theatre of the Bay Street Players presents “Bye, Bye, Birdie” at 7pm the 7th-9th and at 2pm on the 10th. Tickets: baystreetplayers.org, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis.

MARCH 12

Jeannie and Barney “Love Letters” starring Barbara Eden and Hal Linden is at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. Show times: 5 and 8pm. See thesharon.com for tickets.

MARCH 13

Play that fiddle!

The Charlie Daniels Band is at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages for one show

MARCH 1-24

A classic tale “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” live at Moonlight Players, 735 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont. Tickets: moonlightplayers.com.

68

lakeandsumter

.com

MARCH 16 MARCH 22-24

Eat, drink, and be merry Lakeridge Winery & Vineyard presents the Wine & Seafood Festival from 10am5pm Friday; 10am-8pm Saturday; and 11am5pm Sunday. Cost: Adults, $10; children 12 and younger free.

19239 U.S. Highway 27 N., Clermont.

only at 7pm. See thesharon.com for tickets.

MARCH 14

Revisit the 1960s See President John F. Kennedy’s 1,000 days in office at Clermont Performing Arts Center, The Black Box, 3700 S. U.S. Highway 27, at 2pm.

An array of treasures The annual Mount Dora Spring Festival fills the streets of downtown Mount Dora from 9am-5pm. For info, visit visitmountdora.com.

MARCH 16-17

Vintage boats on the water The Spring Race Boat Regatta has vintage race boats on display 9am5pm Saturday, and 9am-4pm Sunday at Wooton Park in Tavares. Call Dave at 386.972.8229.

MARCH 19-31

A classic masterpiece Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House,” written in 1879, still resonates with audiences.

See it at The Studio Theatre at Tierra del Sol, 806 San Marino Dr., The Villages. Showtime: 7pm. Ticket info at thesharon.com. Content advisory: adult content.

Showtimes: 2 and 5pm. Ticket info at thesharon.com.

MARCH 21

Send in the clowns The unique voice of Judy Collins can be heard at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. Showtime: 7pm. Tickets at thesharon.com.

MARCH 21-22

Drama and mystery Northern Lights presents soloist Konstantin Dimitrov accompanied by the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra at 7:30pm March 21 at Epiphany Celebration Angelican Church, 1724 South Bay St., Eustis; and

MARCH 20

The chin Jay Leno will perform stand-up comedy at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages.

MARCH 15

Comedy and color The Pink Collar Comedy Tour is at the Clermont Performing Arts Center, at 8pm, The Black Box, 3700 S. U.S. Highway 27.

MARCH 16

Still singing for 50 years Hear the smooth, soulful sounds of The O’Jays at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages at 7pm. Ticket info at thesharon.com.

MARCH 18

Mozart and Mendelssohn The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra features guest pianist Antonio Pompa Baldi for its performance at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. Showtime: 7pm. Tickets: thesharon.com.

* TOHnE TTOh- DeO SL cI S eT n e

at 7:30pm March 22 at Family Christian Center, 2500 S. U.S. Highway 27, Clermont. Tickets: floridalakessymphonyorchestra.com.

Club of Mount Dora, 1900 Country Club Blvd. Tickets cost $15 at the door. Visit lakeandhillsgardenclub.com for info.

MARCH 26-27

A unique performance Tap Dogs, Australia’s most successful theatrical export, is at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. Showtime: 7pm. Ticket info at thesharon.com.

MARCH 22-31

Cole Porter Enjoy the music of “Kiss Me Kate” at Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse, 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. Showtimes and tickets at icehousetheatre.com.

MARCH 28 MARCH 22-24

Beautiful boats One of the largest antique and classic boat shows is Sunnyland Antique & Classic Boat Festival. Wooton Park, Tavares. Free admission.

Oh, Canada!

Hear the Canadian Brass during another of the wonderful Destination Evenings at The Sharon in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages.

Ticket info at thesharon.com.

MARCH 23-24

MARCH 31

In the garden The annual Lake and Hills Garden Club Garden Tour begins at the County

On the waterfront The 2019 Paddling Film Festival is scheduled from 5-9pm at Mulberry

MARCH 30-31

In the air, on the water The Seaplane-aPalooza is at the Tavares Seaplane Base on Lake Dora. Free admission.

Call 352.742.6209 for more info.

Recreation Center, 8445 Se 165th Mulberry Lane, The Villages. Tickets cost $5 at door, and proceeds benefit Silver Springs Alliance. See vckc.net.

Ongoing Events Farmer’s Markets: The Saturday Morning Market Saturday, 8am-1pm Leesburg Towne Square Brownwood Farmer’s Market Saturday, 9am-1pm 2726 Brownwood Blvd., Wildwood Lady Lake Farmer’s Market Tuesday, 9am-1pm

Lady Lake Log Cabin 106 S. U.S. Highway 27/441 2nd Friday: Wine Tasting Stroll Starts at Maggie’s Attic at Alexander Street and 4th Avenue. 6-8pm 2nd Friday: Art in the Alley Features artists and performers on the sidewalks of downtown Mount Dora, 6-8pm

Th e re ’ s more !

Acoustic music Hear local musicians free from 7-9pm at Leesburg Center for the Arts, 429 W. Magnolia St. Movie in the Park Free family movie starts at dusk in Donnelly Park, downtown Mount Dora.

2nd Saturday: Food Truck N Flick Night Leesburg Towne Square.

3rd Wednesday: PAWS Reading Dogs W.T. Bland Library, Mount Dora.

3rd Thursday: Mount Dora Food Trucks Downtown Mount Dora.

4th Saturday: Classic Car Cruise-In Downtown Eustis.

All seasonal events and celebrations are listed on lakeandsumterstyle.com.

To have an event considered for the calendar, send a short text description along with a color photo (if available) 45 days in advance of event to: calendar@akersmediagroup.com or Lake & Sumter Style Calendar, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749

70

lakeandsumter

.com

On The Scene IN CONCERT

DATE

TIME

ARTIST

VENUE

3/7

7pm

Greg Pando

The Mojo Grill and Catering, Belleview

3/8

7pm

Bat

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort, Webster

3/8

7:30pm

Mac McAnnally

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/8

8pm

The Accuzed

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/8

9pm

Gypsy Elise and the Royal Blues

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

3/9

2:30pm/7:30pm

Bill Anderson

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/9

8pm

Da Boys

Ruby Street Grille, The Villages

3/9

9pm

Gypsy Elise and the Royal Blues

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

3/13

7pm

Harley Worthit

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/13

7pm

Charlie Daniels Band

The Sharon, The Villages

3/13

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/14

4pm

Marcille Wallis and Friends

Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages

3/15

7:30pm

TG Sheppard

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/15

8pm

Kings County

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/16

1pm

Jimmy Hunter Drums

Lake Harris Hideaway, Tavares

3/16

2:30pm/7:30pm

Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/16

9pm

Mad Hadder Band

Oasis Saloon, Sorrento

3/17

2:30pm/7:30pm

Diamond Rio

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/17

4pm

Marcille Wallis and Friends

Spanish Springs Town Square, The Villages

3/17

6pm

Gold City Quartet

Leesburg Church of the Nazarene, Leesburg

3/17

7:30pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/18

7pm

The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra

The Sharon, The Villages

3/30

7pm

James Gregory

Orange Blossom Opry Weirsdale

3/21

7pm

Greg Pando

The Mojo Grill and Catering, Belleview

3/21

7pm

Judy Collins

The Sharon, The Villages

3/22

8pm

Moxie

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/23

2pm

Trackside Band

Gator Bay Marina, Leesburg

3/23

2:30pm/:30pm

Lee Greenwood

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/23

7pm

Melissa Lee

The Mojo Grill and Catering, Belleview

3/23

8pm

Mad Hadder Band

Puddle Jumpers, Tavares

3/24

7:30pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/27

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/28

7pm

Greg Pando

The Mojo Grill and Catering, Belleview

3/28

7pm

Canadian Brass

The Sharon, The Villages

Collin Raye

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

3/30 2:30pm/7:30pm 3/30

8pm

Kings County

Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

3/31

2:30pm/7:30pm

Tracy Byrd

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

Bands subject to change. Email inconcert@akersmediagroup.com to submit an event. Submissions must be received by the ninth of the month prior to month of the event (example: Oct. 9 for Nov. issue).

March 2019

71

*

* LOOnC ATL hT AeL ESNcTe n e

JoJo with students at JoJo’s Performing Arts Dance Studio.

She knows she can dance

* I love creating visual pictures and using your emotions and your body as an art and showing it as beauty.

—JOJO HILGENBERG

72

lakeandsumter

.com

Young performers are blossoming at instructor’s Groveland studio.

STORY: CHRIS GERBASI // PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

B

y age 11, Jordan “JoJo” Hilgenberg already was involved in her future profession of teaching dance moves to tiny tots.

Today, at 23, she instructs students ages 3-18 at JoJo’s Performing Arts Dance Studio, 104 E. Broad St. in Groveland. JoJo and guest teachers lead classes in ballet, jazz, funk, contemporary, tap, and hip-hop, as well as aerial hoops and silks.

“Teaching is something I always knew I was going

to do,” says JoJo, who’s enthusiastic as she talks in the studio she’s owned for 2½ years. “What I like about teaching with kids is… watching them slowly progress and slowly grow, because sometimes you see it before them and then all of a sudden it hits them. It’s just that wave of happiness that really engulfs the whole room and the other kids feed off of it and it’s amazing.”

JoJo’s dancers earned several titles and top-10 finishes in various categories at the 2018 Starpower national competition in Orlando. A championship banner from the event hangs above the studio entrance.

JoJo, who grew up in Clermont, has an impressive résumé. She won Miss World Dance at 17 and then worked professionally. She appeared in a Disney promotional video, and advanced in auditions for the “So You Think You Can Dance” TV show before an illness sidelined her.

Now, her focus is her studio, where the opportunity to choreograph performances has strengthened her passion for dance.

“I love creating visual pictures and using your emotions and your body as an art and showing it as beauty,” she says.

JoJo is coming full circle in teaching. Her first student, MaryKathy Leslie, started with her at age 3 at another studio and now is blossoming at 14 under JoJo’s guidance. “These kids have gone just like seeds to flowers,” JoJo says.

She continues to take dance classes and plans to begin auditioning again.

Her most recent gig was as a contortionist for a circusthemed corporate event. Her goal for her students is that they simply get better from year to year.

“We work hard, we play hard, and we want to fill up the walls, not for trophies, but to show the passion for it,” she says.

k o o L r u o U plift Y

352.259.5126 Face2FaceFL.com THE VILLAGES LEESBURG TAVARES

FACIAL COSMETIC SURGERY

|

BOTOX

|

LASER TREATMENTS

|

PEELS

|

SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

* NOEnA RT&hFeA RS c e n e

At the end of the road Historic Cedar Key stands where State Road 24 reaches the Gulf of Mexico, the perfect destination for a daycation or a weekend getaway.

STORY & PHOTOS: MARY ANN DESANTIS

CEDAR KEY BED & BREAKFAST

E

very time a hurricane makes a trek up the Gulf of Mexico, my worries often turn to Cedar Key, a jewel on Florida’s Nature Coast. The historic district’s main thoroughfare, Second Street, is practically at sea level, and the weathered buildings on Dock Street sit precariously over the water. But somehow, Cedar Key is resolute in its ability to withstand disasters, wars, and time.

When I try to imagine what Old Florida fishing villages must have been like a hundred or more years ago, a picture of Cedar Key pops into my mind. The weather-worn structures are as authentic as buildings can be; the Island Hotel was built in 1859, and the historic downtown looks much like it did in the early 20th century. Inside the shops and restaurants are friendly locals who are eager to share the town’s history as well as their own colorful stories.

The Cedar Key Historical Museum is the place to begin to understand the town’s importance to Florida history. Many people are surprised to know the Civil War reached Cedar Key when Union troops blockaded all of the Cedar Keys and a battle occurred on the

NATURE COAST

The Cedar Keys, a cluster of small islands, epitomize the area’s nickname, “Nature Coast.” Hiking, birding, fishing, kayaking, and just enjoying the outdoors bring people to the area all year. The area has become a source of inspiration for wildlife photographer Richard Wise, owner of NatureWise Photo Images and a resident of The Villages.

DOCK STREET

mainland. Later, two pencil companies were drawn to the area because of the numerous cedar trees and established saw mills. Red cedar slats for pencils were shipped to pencil companies in the North and in Europe. The town, located on Way Key, boomed in the 1880s with stores, hotels, steamships, fishing, oystering, and boat building. The first crossstate (Atlantic to Gulf) railroad ran from 1861 to 1932.

A devastating 1896 hurricane and the depletion of maritime and timber resources caused a decline. In 1900, the population was only 700, and growth was slow. The most important development may have been the formation of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge in 1929. Today, the area is known for its pristine wetlands and wildlife as much as it is for food, art, and tourism.

“People who are nature-oriented will appreciate Cedar Key,” Richard says. “I photograph there because of the variety of wildlife, and especially for the many species of birds. I like the Old Florida aspect of the town, but all the keys are wonderful.”

Richard and his wife, Cindy, often camp in the area and spend time kayaking and fishing. “We often photograph right out of

*

The town of Cedar Key is actually located on Way Key, the largest island in the cluster known as the Cedar Keys.

CEDAR KEYS, FL

March 2019

75

* NOEnA RT&hFeA RS c e n e

ISLAND HOTEL

CEMETARY POINT BOARDWALK

the boat, and have gotten some amazing pictures,” he says.

To get an up-close view of the islands, consider a free ecotour guided by master naturalist Paul King. Donations are accepted and benefit the new public education center at

the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ Nature Coast Biological Station in Cedar Key. Guests may use their own kayaks or rent from Kayak Cedar Keys.

For reservations, call 352.543.9447.

VIBRANT ARTS COMMUNITY

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

2019 Old Florida Celebration of the Arts March 30 (10am-5pm) & March 31 (10am-4pm) Cedar Key Historic District (along Second Street) cedarkeyartsfestival.com

76

lakeandsumter

.com

I have yet to visit Cedar Key when I didn’t come home with a piece of art.

Just walk down the street and you’ll see local artists and an assortment of galleries, including a quilting shop. My first stop usually is the Cedar Key CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER

Arts Center, an artists’ co-op that features an eclectic assortment of vases, jewelry, fiber arts, paintings, photographs, and more.

My latest find, however, was Cedar Key Canvas, a small cottage business that manufactures colorful and

sturdy purses, backpacks, and totes. Just stop in at the Cedar Key Welcome Center to see samples of monogrammed coin purses and get directions to this charming shop that opened in 1986.

The last weekend in March, artists from around the

nation will display wares at the 55th annual Old Florida Celebration of the Arts.

For three years in a row, the juried festival has been named one of the Top 10 Best Arts Fairs in America in the national Art Fair Calendar’s annual survey.

DUNCAN’S ON THE GULF

CAPTAIN’S CATCH

FLORIDA’S CLAM CAPITAL

A trip isn’t complete without tasting Cedar Key’s signature dish: clam chowder. In 2009, Tony’s Seafood Restaurant won the annual Great Chowder

Cook-off in New England.

Amazingly, Tony’s Cedar Key clam chowder beat the New Englanders again in 2010 and 2011 and won a chance to retire the recipe in the Cookoff Hall of Fame.

Crowds continue to line up at Tony’s on the corner of Second Street, and almost every other restaurant in town now offers its own version of clam chowder.

We found the chowders at Duncan’s on the Gulf, a Dock Street eatery overlooking the water, to be just as sensational on a recent trip.

And because one bowl is never quite enough, we stopped at Tony’s on the way out of town to take home a quart of the legendary chowder for dinner.

For a behind-the-scenes look at Cedar Key’s clam industry, sign up for the It’s a Whole ClamLife Tour at the Southern Cross Sea Farms on State Road 24. Tours begin at 1pm each Friday from November through May. If you’re in the mood for steamed clams or other seafood, plan to spend an elegant evening at the Island Hotel Seafood Restaurant.

Mary Ann DeSantis Mary Ann DeSantis has written for Style publications since 2006. She was recognized with first-place Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Awards for Travel Writing in 2017, 2016, and 2012.

March 2019

77

* SOOnC I ATLhSeP OST LcI eG HnTe

Savor wine and seafood Clermont’s picturesque Lakeridge Winery is the ‘go-to’ place for festival fun, wine, and tasty eats.

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

78

lakeandsumter

.com

W

armer weather, great seafood specialties, wines, outdoor musical entertainment, and a variety of arts and crafts herald the 11th annual Wine and Seafood Festival slated for March 22-24 at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont.

“The Seafood Festival has been so popular and is so big at this point that it has a personality of its own,” says Barry Hus, chief operating officer at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards.

He touts the festival as a great party.

“The food is delicious, the music is great, and the craft vendors always bring their best stuff,” Barry adds.

“March is a great month to be outdoors in Florida.”

The enticing aroma of seafood specialties will fill the air, and among the grilled items available for purchase

Bobby Blackmon

If you go will be bacon-wrapped scallops, salmon, mahi-mahi, shrimp skewers, grouper, Maryland crab cakes, alligator skewers, along with fried seafood items of shrimp, fish, clam strips, calamari, scallops, oysters, and steamed seafood items including middle-neck clams, mussels, lobster tails, crab legs, and shrimp.

For visitors who crave dishes besides seafood, the food pavilion will offer a variety of other culinary selections, including Greek, Mexican, American, barbecue, wraps, and salads.

Of course, a large array of wines will be available for guests, including Lakeridge’s wines by the glass, along with import and domestic beers, soft drinks, wine slushies, Twistee Treat ice cream, kettle corn, and pretzels.

Lakeridge’s complimentary winery tour and tasting is

always a popular attraction, and it will be offered throughout the event.

Festivalgoers are invited to the Wine and Cheese Bar located upstairs in the wine shop, which will be open from noon-4pm each day. The bar features all the winery’s popular wines, beer, and cheese plates, and also solo entertainers.

Barry and his staff believe the winery’s picturesque views of the vineyards and its rolling hills make Lakeridge a great venue to enjoy the area’s top bands and finest artisans.

A spacious crafter area allows visitors to roam and explore unique items on display while still being able to hear the live outdoor entertainment.

And many festival fans love that Lakeridge’s grounds are a grassy area with large shade trees, which make for ideal spots to set up lawn chairs

and blankets to enjoy the musicians performing on the outdoor stage.

To add to the festival fun, the winery says a large number of cornhole games will be set up for guests to play and enjoy for free.

Barry is pleased this month’s festival features a few new attractions, including expanded Saturday hours from 10am-8pm March 23, three bands on the outdoor stage rather than two, and two solo acts instead of one at the Wine and Cheese Bar. Additional parking areas are being added to the south side of the festival grounds, along with a second main entrance. Barry says the new entrance allows those parked on the south side to enter and exit directly to those parking areas.

“We’re expecting this to be our biggest event ever,” Barry says.

What: 11th annual Wine and Seafood Festival.

When: 10am-5pm March 22; 10am-8pm March 23; 11am-5pm March 23.

Where: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. 27 N., Clermont.

Tickets: Adult admission, $10; free for children 12 and younger.

Advance tickets at eventbrite.com.

Performers: Shawline, Robert Harris Group, Buddy Blues Band, Ronnie Duncan Band, Dave Capp Project, Bobby Blackmon & B3 Band. See lakeridgewinery.com for times.

March 2019

79

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

Miss Leesburg Pageant Winners: Jenna Croft, Brooke Crenshaw, Alexis Farkus, Paisley Burns, and Raeleigh Yomtob

Ava Cederroth, Brooke Crenshaw, Isabel Izuierdo, Giulia Manco, Cheyenne Shoemake Jenna Croft, Alexis Farkus, Brooke Crenshaw

Eva and Chloe Henderson

Liam Knowles, Noah Burry, and Joshua Rodgers Mitze Wynn, Willie Melendey, Brooke Crenshaw, Jenna Croft, and Krystal Lynch

A new court for Leesburg Jenna Croft was crowned Miss Leesburg. She is the second person in the scholarship pageant’s history to win crowns in all divisions. In addition, Brooke Crenshaw, 13, is Teen Miss; Alexis Farkus, 10, is Junior Miss; Raeleigh Yomtob, 7, is Little Miss; and Paisley Burns, 4, is Tiny Miss.

Education is the cornerstone of the pageant, which awards $12,500 in scholarship money for the winners.

PHOTOS: BROOKE AKERS

80

lakeandsumter

.com

Miss Leesburg Contestants: Ivey Young, Breann Stephans, Kylee Corneliussen, Jenna Croft, Taylor Eaton, Abbigail Wade

Tim Burke REALTOR®

YOUR HOME SEARCH BEGINS AND ENDS WITH TIM! Servicing Lake, Sumter and Marion counties for all of your real estate needs.

352.661.7001 buythruburke.com 126 North Highway 441/466, Lady Lake, Florida

STARTING AT

$29* INSTALLED *per/sq.ft.

Over 300 colors in stock!

BUILDING STONE :: COUNTERTOPS :: FURNITURE :: LANDSCAPING STONE :: MISCELLANEOUS www.southeasternstoneandtile.com :: 352.629.7518 :: 1208 S.E. 3RD AVE, OCALA, FL 34478 March 2019

81

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

High flight The Harper Family Charitable Foundation presented the 22nd annual charity golf tournament for Angel Flight Southeast. As a special note, this year’s event was held on Veterans Day. With a helicopter ball drop, professional trick-shot show, a $1,000,000 shot contest, and a chance to play with a professional, it was an event-filled day.

Angel Flight Southeast provide free flights for those who require out-of-state medical treatment.

PHOTOS: ANTHONY RAO

Bill Ellis, KP Kilpatrick, George Monty, and Robbie Manley

Buzz Nievinski, David Williams, Bob Cisney, and Bruce Len

Mike Piraino and Joel Felker

Buddy Shelton

Mike Piraino and Joel Felker

Bernie Kiesel and Bill Osborn Doug Legear and Mark Goldberg

Tom Sorensen and Ruben Orozco

82

lakeandsumter

.com

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

Tia Tomato, Austin Paz, and Jillian Hutchinson

Cassandra Miller and Sean Jenness

Lynn Jones

Pat Price and Jack Movan

Jessica Belmontes

Jeanette and Linda Bukland, Cassie Bareford, Calvin McKinley, ILKA, and Jerry Varnes

Let’s make a deal

Nicole McCain

Everyone dressed in their finery to attend the 19th annual Art of the Deal fundraiser for the Mount Dora Center for the Arts. Guests enjoyed great food and drink, dancing, live and silent auctions, gaming, and entertainment. There may have been a little madness as guests were encouraged to come as characters from “Alice in Wonderland.”

PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

Linda Jo and Tony Pfeiffer

84

lakeandsumter

.com

Celebrating 20 years 1998-2018 Specializing in: • Mini Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo of Neck and Jowls • Xeomin/Botox/Belotero/Radiesse Facial Enhancements • Direct Neck Lift • Torn Earlobe Repair • Smartlipo (Laser Assisted Liposuction) • Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) • Arm Lift • Thigh Lift • Body Contouring After Weight Loss • Breast Augmentation • Breast Reduction and Lift • Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

Eat, drink, and be merry The Leesburg Craft Beer, Wine, & Food Festival was once again a huge success. Guests sampled more than 25 different craft beers along with wines from around the world and a variety of food from restaurants in the area. Leesburg’s Towne Square was filled with guests who also enjoyed live entertainment from the Rock City Road Band, Jerry Marotta, Bobby Croft, Jon Zeeman, and Jeff Whitfield.

PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

Joseph Szilagyi and Jessica Rinne

Suzy Leware, Hunter Duncan, and Jessica Torrence

Jeanne Villegas and Leona Frampton Tammy Fowler, Sandra Futch, Rich and Melanie Merritt

Nicki Haber, Michelle Arbuthnot, Julie Grimes, and Nicole Todd Stephen Whitfield, Christina Mumley, Derek and Sulin Sprague

Candace Dailey and Ainswritt Fowler

86

lakeandsumter

.com

DRIVE AWAY WITH MORE...

$250 MORE!

Finance a new or used vehicle or refinance your existing auto loan from another financial institution with Insight and receive a $250 Cash Bonus*!

Limited time only. Call us today at 407.426.6000 or Toll-Free 888.843.8328, or visit one of our convenient locations for more information and to apply today!

INSIGHTCREDITUNION.COM *Members can receive a $250 Cash Bonus when they finance a new or used vehicle with Insight Credit Union; or refinance an existing auto loan from another financial institution with Insight Credit Union. Must be a minimum auto loan amount of $20,000. Direct auto loans only. Indirect or dealership loans are not eligible for this promotion. Existing Insight Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for refinance or the $250 Cash Bonus. No other discounts may apply. If the loan is paid in full within six (6) months of the contract date, member will be required to repay the $250 Cash Bonus. Loan application subject to a $30 Loan Application Fee. Approved refinance loans subject to Lien Recording fee. Other fees may apply. Loan subject to normal underwriting guidelines. Actual interest rate will be customized based on credit characteristics. Interest accrues from the date of contract. Offer valid February 1, 2019 through April 30, 2019, and may be withdrawn at any time. Other restrictions may apply. Federally insured by NCUA.

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

Grant Mollett, Barbara Neeld, Fran and Commissioner Tim Sullivan, Commissioner Sean Parks, and Lonnie Neeld

Row 1: John Bowers, Bill Pfingsten, and Conni Berry Row 2: Frank Faust, Tim McCrae, and Tammy Halsey Macey Shellhouse, Hannah Evans, Anna Gunter, Elijah Fletcher III, Cathie Bazner, John Bowers

Andrea and Alyssa Sellers

David Hughes and Wyatt Ayris James Combs, Brittany Hansen, Jason Fugate, and Caleb Jensen

More than a kiss under the mistletoe Leesburg Regional Medical Center presented the 23rd annual Mistletoe Trot 5K and 10K Race in December. Teams and individuals ran or walked the course, which was chiptimed so results were available immediately after the finish. There were 381 participants from all age groups and more women than men were in the race, according to officials.

PHOTOS: MELANIE MELVIN

88

lakeandsumter

.com

Dr. Marja Mehr, Chris Mead, Shelly Logan, and Lauren Bigham

people. commitment. dependability. growth.

“Commitment isn’t just a word for the people at PCDG Construction. It’s part of our name—people, commitment, dependability, growth. When we commit to a project, it comes from every employee and is reflected in the quality of everything we do. Excellence at every level is our goal and complete satisfaction is the key. PCDG Construction is wholly committed to any project every step of the way.

We make it happen.”

—J.J. Cunningham, GM

Construction and development that is woman-owned, locally grown, and veteran-run.

Facilitating growth to communities through construction excellence.

We add value through innovation, dependability and foresight.

4130 United Avenue, Mt. Dora FL 32757 phone (407) 502. 2939 email info@gopcdg.com gopcdg.com

Multi-Family

Commercial

Healthcare

Education

Government

Hospitality

* HOIn, S OTChI EeT YS! c e n e

Andrew Johnson and Daniel Doherty

Alicia Gurry and Laura Oakes Greg and Kay Leonard

Edna McConnell and Nancy McKean-Conner

Tiffany Bennet and Ty Wynne

Kristin, Henry, and Zac Cawn Claire and Carrie Olson

George Barton and Birgit Klafstadbakken

The wearing of the Tartan Mount Dora celebrated its sixth annual Scottish Highland Festival at Sunset and Gilbert Parks. The event is a celebration of heritage and culture with Scottish music, Highland games, traditional dances, and the sound of the bagpipes echoing through the town. Women and men dressed in traditional Scottish garb celebrated as their ancestors would have.

PHOTOS:ANTHONY RAO

90

lakeandsumter

.com

BUILDING UNIQUE POOLS We know that every single customer is unique— Building Unique Pools is our company motto—and so every project we undertake is delivered to a client’s signature set of personal tastes and, where necessary, solves any challenges their property may present.

And we deliver.

352-431-3766

1517 W Main St., Leesburg www.WisemanPools.com CPC1457504

‘‘

This was our first experience with a pool, and that’s why I’m so grateful we went with Wiseman Pools because the company has an extremely friendly and talented staff. They were readily available throughout the project and enthusiastically answered our questions or addressed our concerns. I would highly recommend the company to anyone who wants a pool.

‘‘

Wiseman Pools is a family-ownedand-operated, licensed residential and commercial swimming pool builder with an extensive portfolio of projects. From the small—fountains and in-ground spas. To the large— million dollar installations with multiple pools and spas. Our customers, large and small, demand a quality swimming pool for a fair price.

—VALERIE RHOADES, THE VILLAGES

where family

J.J. Dahl is the first and only Board Certified Marital and Family Law Attorney in Lake County and a distiguished Fellow with the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

AREAS OF FAMILY AND MARITAL LAW EXPERTISE: Divorce • Custody • Adoption Alimony • Child Support • D.C.F. Paternity • Visitation Prenuptials and Postnuptials Enforcement of the above Modification to the above

1001 East Avenue, Clermont Amy Martinez,

FRP

| Melissa Utley, Esq. | J.J. Dahl,

Esq. B.C.S.

| Jodie Irwin,

FRP

| Tracy Stephens,

Esq.

352.243.4100 DahlFamilyLaw.com

94

I N T H E K I T C H E N //

96

F O R K O N T H E R O A D //

98

S A L U T É //

100

DI NI NG GUI DE

Food & Drink

93

Best of FloridaLouisiana cuisine.

SEE MORE on PG 96

& Drink * IFNoToH d E KITCHEN

It’s all in the food Diabetes Alert Day is March 26, and dietitian Jacqueline Griffiths offers Eating Well with Diabetes classes at South Lake Hospital.

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL // PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

B

* “Many are in shock and some in disbelief because they thought they were eating healthfully,” — JACQUELINE GRIFFITHS

94

lakeandsumter

.com

eing diagnosed as diabetic or prediabetic often comes as an unexpected surprise to people who are unware that their bloodsugar levels are higher than normal.

“Many are in shock and some in disbelief because they thought they were eating healthfully,” says Jacqueline Griffiths, outpatient dietitian at South Lake Hospital, based in Clermont. She understands patients’ concerns, yet she notes diabetes can be controlled with lifestyle and dietary changes.

“One of the biggest misconceptions people have about diabetes is that they have lost control,” she says. “They truly believe the condition has taken over and they will have to take medication and stick their fingers for the rest of their life.”

However, Jacqueline says diabetes can be managed in a holistic manner, which includes a balanced diet of nutrient-dense food items, typically high in fiber and low in fat.

In her Eating Well with Diabetes class, offered monthly as a free, community education program, Jacqueline leads discussions about healthy eating options, portion control, and meal planning tips. A large segment of the presentation is focused on the varied forms of carbohydrates: complex carbohydrates, found naturally in vegetables, fruits, and some starches, versus simple carbohydrates, which are found in milk, fruit, and a variety of processed products.

More than 2.3 million Floridians have been diagnosed with diabetes, while many

JACQUELINE’S TIPS FOR MANAGING DIABETES: Monitor blood-glucose level daily. Poorly controlled blood-glucose levels can lead to other blood vessel diseases, including neuropathy, heart disease, and retinopathy.

others may have diabetes and not know it, according to the American Diabetes Association’s OrlandoMaitland office, which serves Lake County.

The ADA is committed to educating the public on how to stop diabetes and

support those living with it.

Residents are encouraged to take the Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test March 26 as part of the American Diabetes Association Alert Day, an annual oneday event hosted the last Tuesday of March.

Mediterranean chickpea salad Provided by South Lake Hospital; created by Jamie Vespa, MS, RD, LD/N Ingredients

1

(15 ounces) can chickpeas (drained, rinsed, and loose shells removed)

2

tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1

tablespoon red wine vinegar

1

pint cherry tomatoes, halved

¼

½

cucumber, finely chopped

cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

¼

cup sliced black olives

3

tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

¼

cup herbed feta (or plain)

¼

teaspoon garlic powder

Juice of 1 lemon

Pinch of sea salt and pepper

Directions

Combine everything in a large bowl, toss to combine, and serve. The salad is best if it has marinated in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Be active. Staying physically active helps with insulin sensitivity, weight management, muscle strength/tone, and may help reduce cholesterol levels, specifically by contributing to a decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Maintain healthy weight. Promoting a healthy weight has been shown to directly impact the decrease of A1c, a laboratory value that indicates the average blood sugar over a threemonth period.

Take prescribed medications. It is important to note that a few glucose level readings within normal range are not an indication of controlled diabetes. Someone with diabetes should work with their health-care provider to determine the best time to take their medication. Your physician should be the one deciding when you can stop taking it.

Manage stress level. Prolonged physical stress can affect bloodglucose levels. Anyone diagnosed with diabetes is encouraged to manage their stress levels to the best of their ability.

March 2019

95

d & drink * FfOoR o K ON THE ROA D

5

E ATO N ’ S B E A C H S A N D B A R & G R I L L

Best of LouisianaFlorida cuisine

Forks

This Weirsdale eatery provides tasty delights and a spectacular lakefront view.

(Out of a possible 5)

Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Grill 15790 SE 134th Ave., Weirsdale 352.259.2444 Hours: 11am-9pm Sunday-Thursday; 11am-10:30pm FridaySaturday

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

E

aton’s Beach Sandbar & Grill sits on the south shore of Lake Weir in Weirsdale and it’s one of those inviting, casual, and comfortable places to savor Louisianainspired cuisine.

The natural, easygoing ambience and unique décor, such as a boat and fishing rods on the restaurant’s ceiling, make it a fun place to take visiting family and friends.

Tables around the outdoor deck also provide a nice setting for guests to enjoy the lake view.

During a weekday lunch, my friend and I started with tasty fried green tomatoes followed by hearty fare of shrimp Creole, a savory combo of shrimp, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and celery served with balaya rice.

Balaya rice, according to

Fork report:

Casual dining $$ Seated immediately (lunch hour) Wait for meal: 15 minutes Prices: $7.99-$25.99

How Fork On The Road Works Our reviewers are objective and unbiased. This is not a paid feature. Our reviewer makes one unannounced visit and we pay for our meals.

96

lakeandsumter

.com

“Louisiana: A Guide to the State,” is rice cooked with crabs, crayfish, shrimp, wine, and appropriate seasonings. This flavorful rice also complemented my Washday Special dish of bronzed (spicy-coated) chicken on top of nicely seasoned red beans. The dish also can be ordered with Louisiana andouille sausage.

My friend noted the “authentic flavor” of our dishes, and I heartily agreed.

We finished our meal with tasty desserts, including orange cake and a delicious slice of warm pecan pie made with a hint of bourbon and topped with praline sauce.

WHISPERING OAKS

I found my thrill on blueberry hill Whispering Oaks Winery Restaurant isn’t on a hill, but its blueberry wines might give you a thrill.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

T

hough the lunch menu at Whispering Oaks Winery Restaurant is limited, that doesn’t keep it from being very tasty. A group from Style magazine recently had lunch there and enjoyed a little wine tasting. You’ll find more on the winery in “Salute” on page 98.

Our appetizers included hearty smokey dogs fish and crackers. Unlike many fish dips, this was a mixture of fish, including mahi-mahi. It was delicious, as was the soft salted pretzel that came with an amazing mustard-based spread.

The restaurant serves only flatbreads on the lunch menu, but don’t think you’re missing out. Larry the Lobster has a red-sauce blend topped with tomatoes and red onions with fontina cheese and fresh basil. Made to order, this was warm, crispy, and provided the perfect serving place for the lobster. I loved it!

My companions enjoyed the Margarite with red sauce, mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil; Stick Man Veggie with fresh crunchy broccoli, mushrooms, zucchini, roasted red peppers, red onion, fontina and mozzarella cheese, topped with a balsamic glaze and parsley; and the Meat Lover with, again, red-sauce blend, sausage, pulled chicken, pulled pork, bacon, and mozzarella, bleu, and Parmesan cheeses. There was not a complaint among us as we sampled each other’s flatbreads and decided we liked them all best.

The winery has lots of special events, including occasional Italian Nights, Steak Night every Friday and Saturday for dinner, and even jazz nights. You may go for the wine, but don’t miss out on the food!

5

Forks

(Out of a possible 5)

Whispering Oaks Winery 10934 N. County Road 475, Oxford 352.748.0449 Hours: Closed Monday.

11am-7pm TuesdayThursday; 11am-9pm Friday-Saturday; 11am-7pm Sunday

Fork report:

Casual dining $$ // Seated immediately (lunch hour) Wait for meal: 15 minutes (flatbreads are prepared fresh) Prices: Lunch $8-$14.95; prices are higher for special dinners.

March 2019

97

* SFAoL UoTdÉ

& Drink

Drinking the blues *

We’re keeping all the things you liked, and fixing the things you didn’t know about.

— DARRYL SIEMER

98

lakeandsumter

.com

If you haven’t tasted blueberry wines from Florida’s Whispering Oaks Winery, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS

D

on’t let anyone tell you that blueberry wine isn’t “real” wine. After all, it’s the fermentation process that turns juice into an alcoholic beverage, and juice from blueberries ferments as well as juice from grapes. And don’t worry about pairing blueberry wines with your favorite cuisines, because Whispering Oaks Winery offers varieties to match food flavors from sweet and savory to spicy.

Most importantly, there’s something for everyone at Whispering Oaks, 10934 N. County Road 475, Oxford. A perfect example is a recent luncheon where four distinctly different palates came together to sample wines that ranged from sweet to dry. We all walked out of the spacious tasting room with our own favorite wines in mind.

Open since November 2014, Whispering Oaks got new owners in May 2018. Darryl and Erinn Siemer bought the winery and have incorporated a new menu and a variety of events, including weekend steak nights and blues music nights. For those who enjoyed Whispering Oaks in the past, the changes are subtle.

“We’re keeping all the things you liked, and fixing the things you didn’t know about,” says Darryl, who has a corporate business background. “We’re trying to be more about the tasting experience.”

Ordering a flight of seven wines is the best way to taste just how different the blueberry varietals are and which foods pair well with each. At $10, a flight is a bargain—and enough to share with a friend over lunch.

Whispering Oaks currently offers eight varieties:

Delightfully Dry Similar in style to merlot, this variety has black cherry and blueberry flavors with notes of vanilla and spice. It pairs well with smoked fish dip or salmon lox, both on the appetizer menu.

Oak Barrel Reserve This is the grown-up version of Delightfully Dry. It’s the same wine, but aged four months longer. The flavors, especially the currants and black cherries, are big and intense. I believe if this wine were in a blind tasting with grape varietals, many people would not guess it is blueberry wine. I didn’t want to share my glass with my lunch partners because it paired perfectly with my meat lover’s flatbread.

Wildly Mild The winery’s best seller is semi-sweet and pairs extremely well with desserts, especially rich chocolates.

Sensationally Sweet I’m probably going to lose my status as a dry wine lover among wine aficionados for saying how delicious this wine was. I took a small sip thinking that was all I wanted.

Then I paired it with the smoked fish dip and the flavors melded perfectly.

Sassy Sangria Another popular seller, this semi-sweet wine is full of blueberry and citrus flavors.

The finish is indeed sassy. It pairs well with the winery’s vegetarian flatbread.

Blushing Blueberry This variety will appeal to the white zin lovers. It’s probably what many people think of when they hear “blueberry wine.”

Serve with lighter foods or as a cocktail aperitif.

Cha Cha Chocolate This full-bodied, sweet wine goes well with desserts, especially strawberries. Be sure to serve it chilled for the best flavor.

Tango You might just dance on the table when you taste this heavenly port-style wine. Normally, I am not a port drinker, but this was the biggest surprise of the day with intense flavors of not only blueberries but also figs, dark red fruits, and citrus. Again, I contend this would stand up to any other brand of port wine in a blind tasting. At $60 a bottle, it’s Whispering Oaks’ most expensive wine and a perfect dessert wine.

You can find more information about Whispering Oaks Winery at winesofflorida.com.

Mary Ann DeSantis Mary Ann DeSantis is a fellow of the Symposium for Professional Wine Writers, Napa Valley, and recently received certification from the Wine & Spirits Educational Trust (WSET). An awardwinning journalist, she has written for Lake & Sumter Style since 2006.

March 2019

99

*

Food & Drink DINING GUIDE

Dining in your city Astatula Race Car Diner 25641 Monroe St. 352.253.6940 Astor Blackwater Inn Williams Landing 55716 Front St. 352.759.3802 Castaways Restaurant 23525 US State Road 40 352.759.2213 Sparky’s Place Restaurant 24646 State Road 40 352.759.3551 Bushnell Chuck’s Odd Cuples Café 117 W Belt Ave 352.568.0408 Hong Kong Restaurant 2229 W CR 48 (352) 568-8888 Howie’s Family Restaurant 840 N. Main St. 352.793.8582 TJ’s Family Restaurant 412 W. Belt Ave 352.793.8877 Clermont 801 City Grille 801 Montrose St. 352.394.6911 Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988 Calabria Ristorante 13900 County Road 455 407.656.5144 Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W. Montrose St. 352.404.9431 Corelli Italian Restaurant 1042 E. Hwy. 50 352.989.5924 El Cerro Restaurant 811 W. Hwy. 50 352.241.9884 Flippers Pizzeria 2523 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.242.2214 G’s NY Pizza 12346 Roper Blvd.

352.243.8900 Green Garden 1790 E. Hwy. 50 352.243.2077

100

lakeandsumter

.com

Guru Restaurant 2400 S. Hwy. 27 352.241.9884 Legends Grille & Tavern 1700 Legendary Blvd.

352.242.1910 Lilly’s on the Lake 846 W. Osceola St. 352.708.6565 Lyn’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe 824 W. Montrose St. 352.536.9935 Napolis Pizzeria 556 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.7500 Robata Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688 The Crooked Spoon Gastropub 200 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.404.4808 Troy’s Cuban & Deli 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.241.4295 Uncle Kenny’s BBQ 157 Hwy. 27 352.394.1225 Eustis 1884 Restaurant & Bar 12 East Magnolia Ave. 1.800.856.1884 Haystax Restaurant 15439 Hwy. 441 352.489.0510 Jeannie’s Place 209 E. Gottsche Ave. 352.359.0027 Kiku Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 15211 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.483.8288 King’s Taste Bar-B-Que 503 Palmetto St. 352.589.0404 Maria’s Latin Dinner 1 N. Eustis St. 352.357.5555 LaCabana Mexican Bar and Grill 2060 S. Bay St. 352.357.4600 NightOwl Caribbean Restaurant 929 S. Bay St. 352.589.0256

Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W. County Road 44 352.589.9100 Taki’s Pizza House 2824 S. Bay St. 352.357.0022 Thai Sushi America 925 N. Bay St. 352.357.1949 The Crazy Gator 402 N. Bay St. 352.589.5885 The Great Pizza Company 23 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.357.7377 The Oyster Troff 936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939 Tillie’s Tavern & Grill 31 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.602.7929 Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. 352.589.9001 Valentina’s Sandwhich Factory 132 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.408.9608 Fruitland Park Fruitland Park Café 3180 US Hwy. 441/27 352.435.4575 ibar-be-que Express 3170 Hwy. 27 352.315.4227 Legends Cafe 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.728.0006 Groveland Coyote Rojo 214 W. Broad St. 352.557.8999 Ikaho Sushi Japanese 7965 SR 50, #900 352.557.8988 James Barbeque 262 W. Orange St. 352.557.4050 Lil Anthony’s Pizza 7965 State Road 50 352.429.7499 Red Wing Restaurant 12500 S. State Road 33 352.429.2997 Howey-inthe-Hills JB Boondocks Bar & Grill 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd.

352.324.3600

Lady Lake Bamboo Bistro 700 Hwy. 441 352.750.9998 Lady Lake Harbor Hills Country Club 6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000 Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 504 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.753.2722 The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co. 514 Hwy. 441 352.614.9000 Leesburg Cafe Ola 400 N. 14th St. 352.365.0089 Cedar River Seafood 8609 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 352.728.3377 Chesapeake Bay Grill 4467 Arlington Ridge Blvd.

352.315.0066 Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442 Cuba Pichy’s 10401 US Hwy. 441 352.365.2822 Dance’s BBQ 1707 South Street 352.801.8885 El Ranchito 911 W N Blvd.

352.314.9339 Frank’s Place 201 N. 1st St. 352.323.1989 Gator Bay Bar & Grill 10320 County Road 44 352.365.2177 God Café 300 W. Main St. 352.801.7447 Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia St. 352.474.2739 HP Grill 1403 S. 14th St. 352.314.0006 Ichiban Buffet 10301 Hwy. 441 352.728.6669 Irene’s Ice Cream Sandwiches and Deli 4120 Corley Island Rd. 352.315.1118

Jamaican George 2402 W. Main St. 352.455.1898 Johnson’s Pizza Place 4120 Corley Island Rd., Ste. 300 352.801.7250 Kountry Kitchen 1008 W. Dixie Ave. 352.323.0852 La Palma Mexican Grill 1690 Citrus Blvd.

352.323.1444 Lilly’s Super Subs 2339 County Road 473 352.343.4663 Magnolia’s Oyster Bar 201 W. Magnolia St. 352.323.0093 Ms. T’s Place 305 Pine St. 352.431.3217 Naples Italian Restaurant 1107 W. North Blvd.

352.323.1616 Osaka 1401 Citrus Blvd.

352.728.0788 Pine Street Bar-B-Que 408 Pine St. 352.728.1293 Plantation Oaks Restaurant 4720 Plantation Blvd.

352.530.2680 Ramshackle Café 1317 N. 14th St. 352.365.6565 Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 US Hwy. 27 352.319.8093 San Jose Mexican 1337 S. 14th St. 352.805.4174 Sip Restaurant and Wine Bar 707 W. Main St. 352.435.7840 Southern Gourmet 314 W. Main St. 352.409.7512 Stavros Pizza 755 N. 14th St. 352.326.4202 Stokes Seafood Market and More 719 W. Main St. 352.787.3474 Takis Pizza Restaurant 1205 N. 14th St. 352.787.2344

The 24 Tap Room 1107 W. North Blvd.

352.315.0198 The Florida Porch Café 706 W. Main St. 352.365.1717 The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd.

352.805.4250 Turners 114 S. 5th St. 352.530.2274 Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe 410 W Main St 352.435.9107 Vic’s Catering 352.728.8989 Wolfy’s 918 N. 14th St. 352.787.6777 Wrapsody 712 W. Main St. 352.801.7239 Mascotte Rainbow Restaurant 704 E. Myers Blvd.

352.429.2093 The Surf Bar and Grill 650 Hwy. 27 202.527.0100 Minneola Jack’s Barbecue 100 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.2673 Lil Anthony’s Pizza 205 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.1516 Minneola Grill 117 W. Washington St. 352.394.2555 Napoli’s Pizzeria 556 Hwy. 27 352.243.7500 Tiki Bar & Grill 508 S. Main Ave. 352.394.2232 Mount Dora 1921 by Norman Van Aken 141 E. 4th Ave. 352.385.1921 Anthony’s Pizza 17195 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.357.6668 Barnwood Country Kitchen and Smokehouse 3725 W. Old US Hwy 441 352.630.4903

Beauclaire Restaurant at Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. 352.383.4101 Bocce Pizzeria 925 E. First Ave. 352.385.0067 Breezeway Café 411 N. Donnelly St. 352.702.7898 Cecile’s French Corner 237 W. Fourth Ave. 352.383.7100 Cody’s on 4th Cafe 111 E. 4th Ave. 352.735.8426 Copacabana Cuban Cafe 320 Dora Drawdy Way 352.385.9000 Eduardo’s Loko Tacos Mexican Restaurant 226 Alfred St. 352.742.1181 Frog & Monkey English Pub 411 N. Donnelly St. 352. 383.1936 Highland Street Café 185 S. Highland St. 352.383.1446 Jeremiah’s 500 N. Highland St. 352.383.7444 J.K. Thai & Sushi 116 E. 5th Ave. 352.385.5470 Let’s Do Lunch 426 N. Donnelly St. 352.735.4577 Mount Dora Pizza & Subs 2718 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 352.383.5303 One Flight Up - Coffee, Dessert & Wine Bar 440 N. Donnelly St., Ste. 100 352.758.9818 Pisces Rising 239 W. 4th Ave. 352.385.2669 PizzAmore’ 722 E. 5th Ave. 352.383.0092 Shiva Indian Restaurant 140A W. 5th Ave. 352.735.4555

Sidelines Sport Eatery 315 N. Highland St. 352.735.7433 Sugarboo’s Bar-B-Que 1305 N. Grandview St. 352.735.7675 The Goblin Market 331-B Donnely St. 352.735.0059 Whale’s Tale Fish House 2720 W. Old U.S. Hwy 441 352.385.1500 Zellie’s Pub 4025 N. U.S. Hwy. 19A 352.483.3855 Sorrento Del Franco Pizza Place 31436 CR 437 352.383.8882 Gi Gi’s 25444 State Road 46 352.735.4000 Tavares Angelo’s Italian Restaurant 2270 Vindale Rd. 352.343.2757 Buzzard Beach Grill 12423 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.5267 Hurricane Dockside Grill 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd.

352.508.5137 Lake Dora Sushi & Sake 227 E. Main St. 352.343.6313 Mary’s Kountry Kitchen 15945 County Road 448 352.343.6823 O’Keefe’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 115 S Rockingham Ave. 352.343.2157 Palm Gardens Restaurant 1661 Palm Garden St. 352.431.3217 Ruby Street Grille 221 E. Ruby St. 352.742.7829 Sunrise Grill 462 E. Burleigh Blvd.

352.343.7744 The Hideaway 11912 Lane Park Rd. 352.343.3585

The Villages Amerikano’s Grill 998 Del Mar Dr. 352.633.8027 Bavarian Brewhaus 2738 Brownwood Blvd.

352.399.5516 Bravo Pizza 1080 Lake Sumter Landing 352.430.2394 Chengs Chinese and Sushi Restaurant 4050 Wedgewood Ln. 352.391.9678 China Gourmet III 343 Colony Blvd 352.750.4965 City Fire Brownwood & Paddock Square 352.561.2078 Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill 297 Colony Blvd 352.751.0400 Giovanni’s 3439 Wedgewood Lane 352.751.6674 Margarita Republic 1102 Main St. 352.753.4600 Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant and Bar 320 Colony Blvd.

352.753.3824 NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln 352.750.1994 RedSauce 1000 Canal St. 352.750.2930 Ricciardi’s Italian Table 3660 Kiessel Rd. 352.391.9939 Sakura 265 Colony Blvd 352.205.7393 Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant 13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630 The Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille 925 Lakeshore Dr. 352.753.7800 VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887

Umatilla Fish & Chix 100 N. Central Ave. 352.669.7145 Gator’s 9 N. Central Ave. 352.669.6969 Greg’s Haystax 526 Umatilla Blvd.

352.669.1555 Nicky D’s Pizza 325 N. Central Avenue 352.669.2400 Old Crow Real Pit Bar-B-Q 41100 State Road 19 352.669.3922 Quarterdeck 801 Central Ave. 352.669.4662 Shanghai 531 N. Central Ave. 352.669.2004 The Mason Jar 37534 State Rd. 19 352.589.2535 Umatilla Tavern 605 N. Central Ave. 352.669.1325 Wildwood China Jade 420 W. CR 44 352.330.5913 Cotillion Southern Café 101 N. Main St. 352.748.1223 Los Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 346 Shopping Center Dr. 352.461.0577 O’Shucks! Oyster Bar and Grill 1016 S Main St. 352.399.2200 Traditions Café 3107 Hwy. 44 352.748.1077 Woody’s Bar-B-Q 1220 S. Main St. 352.748.1109 Yalaha Yalaha Bakery 8210 County Road 48 352.324.3366

Country Club Restaurants Clermont Sanctuary Ridge Bar & Grille 2601 Diamond Club Road 352.243.0411 Legends Grille & Tavern 1700 Legendary Blvd.

352.243.1118 Howey-in-the-Hills Mission Inn Resort El Conquistador Nicker’s Clubhouse Restaurant 10400 CR 48 352.324.3101 Mount Dora The Country Club 1900 Country Club Blvd.

352.735.2263 The Villages Belle Glade Country Club 446 Moyer Loop 352.205.8208 Cane Garden Country Club 1726 Bailey Trail 352.750.0627 Evans Prairie Country Club 1825 Evan’s Prairie Trail 352.750.2225 Glenview County Club 3914 Glenview Rd. 352.753.0077 Hemingway’s at Havana Country Club 2484 Odell Circle 352.430.3200 Legacy Restaurant Nancy Lopez Country Club 17135 Buena Vista Blvd.

352.753.1475 Orange Blossom Country Club 1542 Water Tower Circle 352.751.4501 Palmer Legends Country Club 1635 Palmer Way 352.750.4499 Tierra Del Sol Country Club 806 San Marino Dr. 352.753.8005 Wildwood Continental Country Club 50 Continental Blvd.

352.748.3293

March 2019

101

*

Food & Drink DINING GUIDE

Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant Open seven days a week: 11am–9pm // Food, Spirits, Music, Sports 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441, Leesburg // 352.253.2442 // CVinnies.com Cousin Vinnie’s is located on U.S. Hwy. 441 across from Home Depot. Owner “Cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a “Sports Bar” with a “Family Restaurant”. As soon as you walk into Vinnie’s you will immediately notice why they are famous for outstanding comfort food and service! Their 30+ wing sauces have awarded them voted BEST WINGS in Lake & Sumter County every year since opening in 2008. In 2017 & 2018, Vinnie’s was also voted BEST SPORTS BAR! Tuesday night is “Family Night” from 5–8p.m. when kids 12-and-under eat free. Wednesday night is “Trivia Night” when the fun starts at 6:30p.m. with prizes given to the top 3 teams. There is no better place on the weekends to see who hoists the trophy or takes home the checkered flag. A few menu items offered are (never frozen – 80/20) ½ lb. burgers, personal pan pizzas, amazing rib-eye Philly cheese steaks, healthy wheat wraps, fresh homemade chicken salad and 15 awesome appetizers, including Cousin Vinnie’s Signature Secret Shrimp! Central Florida’s families simply can’t get enough of their deep-fried Ice Cream! Cousin Vinnie’s also offers, a small arcade for the kids, 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 owner Cousin Vinnie. To learn more, go to www.CVinnies.com.

Fish Camp on Lake Eustis 901 Lakeshore Blvd., Tavares // 352.742.4400 // fishcamponlakeeustis.com The Fish Camp on Lake Eustis is your spot for sampling the best locally sourced foods, liquors, craft beers, and wines of Central Florida. In addition to the local fare, Fish Camp serves up Southern classics like Gullah-style shrimp & grits and signature favorites like our blackened grouper Reuben. Our Central Florida dishes include swamp cabbage ceviche, Florida grass-fed burgers, Cedar Key clams, kale Caesar and farm salad from Aquaponic Lynx Farm in Yalaha, and Zellwood sweet corn from Long & Scott Farms. Come enjoy the view with our full bar featuring local moonshines from Yalaha Bootlegging Company, local craft beers, and our fresh-squeezed margaritas. Voted Best Seafood in the Lake & Sumter Style magazine and Daily Commercial newspaper contests in 2018.

Stokes Seafood Market and More 719 W. Main St., Leesburg // 352.787.3474 Facebook.com/StokesSeafoodMarketandMore The freshest seafood available, custom-made party platters, and many delicious “grab and go” meals are available from Stokes Seafood Market and More every day, and we now have outdoor seating so you can enjoy a delicious lunch at the market! We also serve freshly made lunches every Wed.-Fri. from 11-2pm…check out our scrumptious lunch menu! We are located at 719 W. Main Street at the corner of 9th Street in historic downtown Leesburg. Come try our wonderful house-made seafood dishes at the market, including lobster rolls, fish tacos, sesame-seared Ahi tuna, salad with blackened salmon or Ahi tuna, the best seafood gumbo, New England clam chowder, shrimp and lobster bisque around, and so much more. When you pick up your fresh seafood you can sample some of the wonderful house-made seafood salads, spreads, and dips, and wine and beer, and take some home to go with your dinner. We specialize in hard to find Northern fish and shellfish, live Maine Lobster and Blue Crab, Salmon, Tuna, Snapper, Grouper, Mahi, Ipswich Clams, Oysters, Mussels, Mullet, Catfish, Tilapia, Swordfish, Crab, and so much more! Every day there’s something new to pick up for lunch and “grab and go” home to enjoy. We are your one stop seafood shop…we carry everything to make your seafood meal and appetizers perfect! In addition to the fish brought in fresh from the boats daily, there’s also a great selection of shellfish and frozen fish. Ask about our fun and informative cooking demonstrations…just call or check the schedule in the store for times and dates.

102

lakeandsumter

.com

*

Food & Drink DINING GUIDE

Subway 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

The Whistle Stop at Zellwood Station 2728 Cayman Cir., Zellwood // Tue-Sat 11am-7pm // Sun 11am-5pm // 407.814.7005 Located in the rolling hills of Zellwood Station is Whistle Stop Restaurant and Lounge. With a scenic view of the community’s beautiful golf course, the restaurant is open Sunday morning for breakfast, Wednesdays and Fridays for dinner, and Tuesday through Sunday for lunch. Diners can satisfy their taste buds on various food items prepared by a former Disney Chef, including Reubens, burgers, Caesar salad, and a large pork sandwich.

Yalaha Bakery 8210 State Road 48, Yalaha // Open daily 8am-7pm // 352.324.3366 The family owned German Bakery since 1995, is an award-winning Bakery that offers to customers high-quality German products made with the highest culinary standards. Fine European pastries and breads are made with organic flours, chocolates, and spices, butter, and imported European ingredients. Take home tortes, tarts, and wonderful pretzels, but before you go home, enjoy something from our delicious deli menu. We serve breakfast from 8-11am and lunch and dinner are served 11am-7pm. Enjoy German specialties like Nurnberger breakfast, Hunterschnitzel with Spätzle, Bratwurst, Reuben, Quiche, typical German soups, and maybe Semelknoedel (bread dumplings with mushroom sauce) for lunch or dinner. We offer a fine selection of German beers and wines. Whatever time of day, you’ll find something you love at Yalaha Bakery.

On the weekends you can come and enjoy various events and music concerts on Saturdays and Sundays at our Beer Garden. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter or via our website www.yalahabakery.com A German Bakery Like No Other!

March 2019

103

BlueMedicare means more security means more BlueMedicare BlueMedicare means more security security Our Florida Blue HMO plans received Our Our Florida Florida Blue Blue HMO HMO plans plans received received Medicare’s highest rating stars) for 2019 Our Florida Blue HMO plans(5 received Medicare’s highest rating (5 Medicare’s highest rating (5 stars) stars) for for 2019 2019 Medicare’s highest rating (5 stars) for 2019

Wish Wish you you could could enjoy enjoy the the 5-star 5-star plan plan experience? experience?

Wish you could enjoy the 5-star plan experience?

You can! Because Florida Blue’s HMO plans have a 5-star rating, you can switch and start getting You You can! can! Because Because Florida Florida Blue’s Blue’s HMO HMO plans plans have have a a 5-star 5-star rating, rating, you you can can switch switch and and start start getting getting the quality, service and large provider network you deserve.

No need to wait until the You can!

Because Florida Blue’s HMO plans have a 5-star rating, you can switch and startAnnual getting the quality, service and large provider network you deserve.

No need to wait until the Annual the quality, service and large provider network you deserve. No need to wait until the Annual Period to changeyou plans, you can the quality, serviceEnrollment and large provider network deserve.

Noenroll needtoday. to wait until the Annual Enrollment Enrollment Period Period to to change change plans, plans, you you can can enroll enroll today. today.

Enrollment Period to change plans, you can enroll today.

Enroll today and keep your providers and enjoy benefits like: Enroll today and keep your providers and enjoy benefits like: Enroll today and keep your providers and enjoy benefits Enroll today and keep your providers and enjoy benefits like: like: ** ** ** **

n n n n n n n n n n

PREMIUMS PREMIUMS PREMIUMS PREMIUMS DEDUCTIBLES DEDUCTIBLES DEDUCTIBLES DEDUCTIBLES COPAYS COPAYS COPAYS COPAYS

$0 copay for $0 copay for $0 copay for primary care $0 copay for primary care primary care doctor visits primary care doctor doctor visits visits doctor visits

Low copay Low copay Low copay for specialist Low copay for specialist for specialist visits for specialist visits visits visits

Additional hearing Additional hearing Additional hearing and vision coverage Additional hearing and vision coverage and vision coverage and vision coverage

Additional Additional Additional dental Additional dental dental coverage dental coverage coverage coverage

® SilverSneakers ® ® SilverSneakers SilverSneakers ® fitness program SilverSneakers fitness fitness program program fitness program

Contact us today to find out if your provider is a part of our trusted provider network: Contact Contact us us today today to to find find out out if if your your provider provider is is a a part part of of our our trusted trusted provider provider network: network: Contact us today to find out if your provider is a part of our trusted provider network:

Mid Mid Florida Florida Agencies Agencies Mid Florida Agencies

352-259-0666 352-259-0666 352-259-0666 TTY users: 1-800-955-8770, 9 a.m. -- 55 p.m. local time, Mon. -- Fri. TTY TTY users: users: 1-800-955-8770, 1-800-955-8770, 99 a.m. a.m. - 5 p.m. p.m. local local time, time, Mon. Mon. - Fri. Fri. TTY users: 1-800-955-8770, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. local time, Mon. - Fri. www.MidFloridaAgencies.com www.MidFloridaAgencies.com www.MidFloridaAgencies.com www.MidFloridaAgencies.com Local offices in Lake, Sumter, and Marion Counties.

*For a complete list of network providers for each Florida Blue Medicare Advantage plan, visit bluemedicarefl.com. **The benefits listed are not available *For a complete list network providers for each Florida Blue Advantage plan, visit **The benefits listed are available *For complete list of of network providers each Florida Blue Medicare Medicare visit bluemedicarefl.com. bluemedicarefl.com. **The benefits listedHMO are not not available on allaplans.

Florida Blue HMO is an HMOfor plan with a Medicare contract.Advantage Enrollmentplan, in Florida Blue HMO depends on contract renewal. coverage is on all plans.

Florida Blue HMO is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in Florida Blue HMO depends on contract renewal.

HMO coverage is *For a complete list of network providers for each Florida Blue Medicare Advantage plan, visit bluemedicarefl.com. **The benefits listed are not available on all plans.

Florida Blue HMO is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in Florida Blue HMO depends on contract renewal.

HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO. HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO, an Independent Licensee offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO. HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO, an Independent Licensee on all plans.

Florida Blue HMO is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in Florida Blue HMO depends on contract renewal.

HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO. HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Applicable to 2019 BlueMedicare of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system.

Applicable to 2019 BlueMedicare offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO. HMO coverage is offered by Health Options, Inc., DBA Florida Blue HMO, an Independent Licensee of the plans Blue Cross and Blue Shield Every year, Medicare evaluates based 5-star rating on system.

Applicable 2019national BlueMedicare HMO on contract H1035.

WeAssociation. comply with applicable Federal civil rightsplans laws and doon nota discriminate the basis of race,tocolor, origin, HMO on contract H1035.

We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not the basis of race, origin, of the plans Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a discriminate 5-star rating on system.

Applicable tocolor, 2019national BlueMedicare HMO plans on contract H1035.

We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national age, disability, or gender. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-352-2583origin, (TTY: age, disability, or gender.

ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.

Llame al 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: HMO plans on contract H1035.

We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or gender.

ATENCIÓN: Si habla su disposición gratuitos asistencia Llame al(TTY: 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: 1-877-955-8773).

ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòlespañol, Ayisyen,tiene gen asèvis èd pou langservicios ki disponib gratisdepou ou. Relelingüística.

1-800-352-2583 1-800-955-8770).

1-877-955-8773).

ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou.

Rele 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: 1-800-955-8770). age, disability, or gender.

ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.

Llame al 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: 1-877-955-8773).

ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou.

Rele 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: 1-800-955-8770). © 2019 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved. © 2019 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue.

All rights reserved.

1-877-955-8773).

ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou.

Rele 1-800-352-2583 (TTY: 1-800-955-8770). © 2019 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.

Y0011_94684_M CMSShield Accepted © 2019 Blue Cross 1218 and Blue of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.

Y0011_94684_M Y0011_94684_M 1218 1218 CMS CMS Accepted Accepted Y0011_94684_M 1218 CMS Accepted

If you are thinking about building and need an affordable set of

Preliminary Bid Plans Starting at a low $195, we can help you out with a preliminary set of bid plans that have everything you need to: • Get an Accurate Quote from contractors • Get to the Zoning Board for approval • Get approval from your homeowner’s Architectural Review Committee A minimal investment for a huge return.

What are Preliminary Bid Plans?

They typically consist of a Site Plan, Floor Plan, and Elevations. This set of plans will get you through the Planning and Zoning process, any Architectural Review Committees you may need, and of course construction bids from your contractor(s).

For just $195?

Yes, most residential Preliminary Bid Plans start at $195. Larger, more complex projects can range slightly more.

Leesburg 700 E Main Street Open to the Public: M-F, 7am to 5pm And on the web at RoMacFL.com

352-314-3197

LIC# CBC1252465

Is your pod looking to migrate?

USB’s residential lending team is here to help you get into the home in your family’s ideal location.

unitedsouthernbank.com Janet Noack

Jeanne Lazo

Rhea Ann Kennedy

Kelly Guzman

352-589-4663 NMLS#514772

352-771-2404 NMLS#514769

352-771-5720 NMLS#1076515

352-483-5892 NMLS#1363256

USB NMLS#419535

March 2019

105

Looking for room to grow?

USB’s residential lending team is here to help you get into a home that fits your family’s size and needs.

Meet the Team

Janet Noack 352-589-4663 NMLS#514772

Jeanne Lazo

352-771-2404 NMLS#514769

unitedsouthernbank.com

Rhea Ann Kennedy 352-771-5720 NMLS#1076515

USB NMLS#419535

Kelly Guzman 352-483-5892 NMLS#1363256

NEUROPATHY

AUTO ACCIDENT

HEADACHES

At Etheredge Chiropractic, we help people every day with treating the cause of pain, burning, numbness and tingling in their hands or feet.

Don’t suffer, call us today so you can live the life you love.

I M P R OV I N G

PAT I E N T S

Q U A L I T Y

O F

L I F E

S I N C E

19 8 9

CHIROPRACTIC CARE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH The most trusted chiropractic technique and expertise based on 30-years of experience. Our patients receive the highest standards of chiropractic care within a safe, effective and preventative manner. We treat with improved function as our goal.

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

The Villages 910 Old Camp Rd. Bldg 110 352.750.1200

R. Kim Etheredge, D.C. Jennifer R. Paul, D.C.

Fruitland Park 3261 US HWY 441/27 352.365.1191

ecdoctors.com

The 6th Annual

AMA ZING FOR

CHARIT Y with the world’s

smallest pacemaker

April 6, 2019 in Eustis

Grab your partner and get ready for a wacky, fun day of 20+ challenges, along a 5-mile course throughout Eustis. Cross the Finish Line Festival and enjoy food, friends and music!

Sign-Up at amazingraceforcharity.com *Use Style2019 promo code and save $25 off your 2-person registration fee.

When a pacemaker ensures your heart never misses a beat, you can return to living a life of freedom and confidence. With advanced tools like the world’s smallest pacemaker—which can restore your heart’s rhythm in just minutes. That’s a reason to feel bold. Feel unstoppable. Feel whole.

AdventHealthHeartWaterman.com

PRESENTING SPONSOR

RACE SPONSORS

CHALLENGE SPONSORS

KEVCOBUILDERS Innovation. Integrity. Excellence.

AHW-2019-0205

AHW-2019-0205_AHW_CardiacFeelWhole_PrintAds_2.indd 1

2/11/19 1:02 PM

BOWEN|SCHROTH Bowen, Schroth, Mazenko, & Broome, P.A. Attorneys at Law

FINISH LINE SPONSOR MEDIA SPONSOR

Susan Ellis, Realtor®

March 2019

111

2ND ANNUAL

TASTE OF LAKE & BUSINESS EXPO 2019 FOOD • LIVE MUSIC • BEER • WINE

Tuesday, March 19th 5:30pm-8:00pm

Purchase tickets at www.tasteoflake.net

in Leesburg's Towne Square 510 West Main St. , Leesburg FL

Enjoy food from all over Lake County, drinks, and FREE prizes

"Be entertained with a special appearance by the Leesburg Blues Brothers Tribute and Kelly Jarrard" Tickets $25 in Advance - $35 at Door - Purchase at wwwtasteoflake.net Discounts for First Responder, Military @Teacher $20 (Advance purchse only, call 352.787.2131)

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Birthday celebrations are enjoyed most guilt-free and freshly delivered!

STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS THAT TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL • Ask me about how IAWomen.com can benefit you! •

352.391.1334

Kathleen M. Bogolin, CPA

847.340.9487

3132 Ranchwood Terrace, The Villages kbogolin@theflb.com www.theflb.com

ONE SMALL POSITIVE

CHANGE CAN AFFECT YOUR

WHOLE LIFE!

3509 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages (in the Southern Trace Plaza)

Delivery not available in all areas. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS® & Design and all other marks noted are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2018 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.

to Cal fo day l ou ro t ro ur o s ffi ne che ce xt du cla le ss !

Our 10 Day Blood Sugar, Inflammation or Detox Balance Class Begins on April 1st.

Visit us online for more information on these programs!

Dr. Kimberly Besuden

BAY STREET WELLNESS

352.357.7244 | BayStreetWellness.com 2430 South Bay St., Eustis

Dr. Lauren Cooper

• MASSAGE • SKINCARE • ACUPUNTURE • CHIROPRACTIC • FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

March 2019

113

Y A S Y E H T Y H W F EL S R U O Y R O F E E S COME S I , E C I R P R U O N A TH R E T T E B E K I L L L YOU’

G N I H T Y L N O E H T

G N I Y U B E TH ERIENCE P X E !

F L E S IT

essure. r p h ig h o There’s n nport worked it ave Wayne D t ways to give us eren s,’ three diff al. It’s like ‘Cheer de e. the best knows your nam y everybod tt & Sharon D

n ever bee n s a h e e rienc My expe ss than awesom le anything ordinary. This is or extra e dealership it my favor hevy. for C Gabby F

ck y 1st tru m t h g u Bo r the here afte n of my endatio recomm I was not brother. inted. disappo Jordan M

Sco

ASK ABOUT OUR MONTHLY DISCOUNTS!

Facebook 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 125 reviews

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS!

OF THE BEST

HOTLIST2018

OF THE BEST

WINNER

HOTLIST

Google

OF THE BEST 4.7 out of 5 stars based HOTLIST FINALIST on 308 reviews

a ar in for c r u o k o To . It the hood e n o ir a p re Th ed early. ey h is n fi s h wa cellent. T rned x e is ir a tu rep ar and re ever. c e h t d e wash ape than h s r e t t e it in b Paula Q friendly y r e v s y Alwa service.

Charles H

g to writin d e m o t s ot accu estly We are n eviews, but hon ut a lot of r ay enough abo s evrolet h cannot C y a w nna Vann Ga taff working at s and the lership. this dea Jenny F

Every

ike ou feel l y s e k a one m Mary H

family.

ushy, had p t ’ n s a W ur wer to o d s n a y r e e ev and help . s n o i t s e qu g part in c n a n fi with the more money to had .

Wish we er car from them h buy anot enjamin H B

in there e m d a h They tes. Had u in m 5 s. within 0 minute 3 in h it w r me out custome e l u f r e d r Won ys go the d. a lw a I e ice servic son serv c u T y m and get yB

HWY 441, Eustis FL 32726 / VGChevy.com / 352.343.2400

Cind

*

F i na l T h oug h t

Where the heart is I love my life. I love my friends. But sometimes, I just want to go home.

STORY: RHEYA TANNER

A

homes: one in my little RV s a little girl, I tucked behind the trees lining was cursed with the highway, and another homesickness. No in my mom’s house. Both matter how fun it was to stay soothe a different ache in my at a friend’s, a neighbor’s, soul, and neither feels quite even my grandma’s house, I’d like home without the other. never sleep soundly through However, I’d also say I find the night. I’d always find a touch of home in church myself lying awake, feeling pianos and in my mother’s alone, longing for home. hands. I find it in my favorite But that longing never pajamas, quiet nighttime followed me on my drives, blank journals, and family’s summer road trips the giant stuffed dog my to Tennessee riverbanks dad bought me and Georgia when I was sick mountainsides. that one time.

Maybe it was the Of course, hushed energy What is that, the those aren’t that moved through nature sense of “home”? places. Yet all the same, they there, or maybe Is it family? welcome me, the presence of Nostalgia? comfort me, and, loved ones, that for just a split kept it at bay.

Contentment? second, they give Whatever it was, me everything I’ve spent my it turned those weeklong life searching for. vacation houses into magical I am 23 now—by no means lands that felt like…home. a grown-up, but certainly What is that, the sense an adult. I’ve felt happiness. of “home”? Is it family?

I’ve felt loss. I am the fullest Nostalgia? Contentment? I and the emptiest I’ve ever used to think it was simply been. But somehow I haven’t a place, specifically the escaped that childhood place where I spent 20 years growing up. But at some point curse. On some nights still, as we were moving out of that when the thick velvet sky presses heaviest against place, I discovered that all the roof of my house, I find the “home” had trickled out myself lying awake, alone. along with the boxes.

Longing for home.

If you asked me today, I’d say I currently have two

*

116

lakeandsumter

.com

Jewelry is a very personal thing, it should tell a story about who is wearing it.

INESS Y EARS IN BUS

352.751.6613 1060 Canal St., The Villages (Lake Sumter Landing) www.ardensjewelers.com

Every day deserves more adventure.

Capable Performance Underneath RAV4’s rugged good looks are capabilities that reveal the potential of where you can go, on- or off-road.

Let’s Go Places.

The all-new 2019

RAV4

DELUCA TOYOTA SR 200 • Ocala, FL 352-732-0770 DELUCATOYOTA.COM Prototype shown with options. ©2018 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Frank DeLuca

Owner/President DeLuca Toyota

Your bedding headquarters!

352.435.6131 // shopfamilyfurniture.com // 8626 US Hwy 441, Leesburg Mon-Fri 9am-6pm // Sat 10am-6pm // Sun 12pm-5pm

>> INTEREST FREE FINANCING >> LOW PRICE GUARANTEE >> FREE INHOME DESIGN CONSULTATION

SOLVED. PLUMBING PROBLEMS:

Servicing Leesburg, The Villages & surrounding areas • Emergency plumbing

2O4 UR

• Drain cleaning • Burst pipe repair

H

• Water leak detection

ency Emergonse p arge for Res tra ch

• Gas line repair & installation

No ex ergencies em

• Sewer line repair & replacement • Repiping • Kitchen plumbing • Bathroom remodeling • Clogged toilet repair • Slab leak repair • Water filtration systems • Water heaters • Tankless water heaters • Commercial plumbing

S

I

N

C

E

1

9

8

3

ROSS PLUMBING 352 728 6053 terryrossplumbing.com 930 Thomas Ave #1, Leesburg

Danny

Terry

Clint