Style Magazine, January 2017

An enlightening look at what’s new this new year!

THE ISSUE

We Hope All of Your Holiday Wishes Came True and that You Are Ready for an Even More Prosperous New Year!

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PL AZ A — BOB AND MOLLIE PODELL

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(L–R): JOSH MISHLER, SALES REPRESENTATIVE; BOB AND MOLLIE PODELL; GREG YAGER, GENERAL MANAGER

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Cont JANUARY 2017 // VOL.13 NO. 3 // F e a t u r e s

CONTENTS 36 The New Issue It’s that exciting time when the year is a clean slate in front of you. What’s new in Lake and Sumter County? Get the scoop on everything from a new solar farm in Leesburg to the first national canoe/kayak championship in Clermont and what people are saying about the new president!

An enlightening look at what’s new this new year!

THE ISSUE

January 2017

STORY: LEIGH NEELY, JAMES COMBS, THERESA CAMPBELL, DEBBI KIDDY

VILLAGE EDITION

Lake Eye celebrates

40 YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

VISION

Defining the future of eye care

52 Bang!

You can prepare yourself for facing an active shooter situation. Get the facts from an expert law enforcement officer.

There are plenty of aids available so you know what to do if faced with this frightening dilemma.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

On the c ov e r s

LAKE & SUMTER STYLE DIRECTION: JASON FUGATE PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ MODEL: VOLKAN ULGEN VILLAGES EDITION DIRECTION: JASON FUGATE PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

January 2017

15

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tents d e pa r t m e n t s

86

68

62 26

86

21 I n Th e Know

22 26 28 30

#Trending Person of interest Outstanding Student This ‘n’ That

57 On The Scene

58 60 62 64 68 70

The to-do List In Concert Local Talent Out & About Social Spotlight Hi, Society!

83 A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e

84 86 90 92 104

Quick Bites In the Kitchen Saluté Fork on the road Dining Guide

Colum ns

18 From the Publisher 120 Final Thought

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lakeandsumter

.com

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From The Publisher

C o m m e n t s o r qu e s t i o n s ?

Our goal is to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.

What’s New? nce again it is a new year, we have a new president,

and with that comes new exciting times. We here at Style Magazine wanted to join in on all the—New. So, we have a lot in store for you in this month’s issue.

First, enjoy the new look for Style. We decided to change things and present you a new redesign of the magazine. Much of the publication stayed the same because, if it is already great, why change it? What you will see is a much cleaner look, with more white space that has made the magazine more inviting, easier to navigate, and easier to read. Also, we changed our fonts and created new layout formats that allow the images to pop off the page and come to life. Style magazine now has a lot more style.

It is never easy to redesign a magazine. It is a difficult task to identify where to begin, what needs to stay the same and what needs to change. Our team has a tremendous task in front of them each month as we decide what stories to run, what photos to use, and how to design each layout so that it engages our readers. At the end of the production of each issue, we hold our heads high and pat each other on the back, and say, “great job, team.” So, trying to decide how to improve upon what we feel is already great is challenging.

For this redesign, we brought in our big guns! Our Chief Creative Officer Jamie Ezra Mark and our Creative Director Jason Fugate were the brains behind this effort. To say they are a dynamic duo would be an understatement.

These two gentlemen are among the most talented designers in Florida, and in my opinion, the entire country. And the best news is, they live right here, serving at the pleasure of our Lake and Sumter County readers. That is exciting!

What has truly made this issue great is not just the beautiful redesign, it also is the stories we share with you. Our writers and editors searched high and low to find everything NEW locally for 2017. We have new residents, new babies, newlyweds, and a new solar farm. You name it and we covered it.

I hope you enjoy this new issue and its new look. We look forward to serving you for another year and representing this community with a new Style.

Happy New Year!

Kendra Akers

At You r S e rv i c e

Hot Off The Press!

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

SPONSORED BY

January 2017

VILLAGE EDITION

Kendra Akers publisher/editor-in-chief

TO LAKE COUNTY

An enlightening look at what’s new this new year!

THE

kendra@akersmediagroup.com

Doug Akers

A step in the right direction Lake Eye celebrates

vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com

40 YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

ISSUE

Jamie Ezra Mark

To celebrate Healthy Living’s 100th issue, we are providing 100 ways to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

VISION

PEDAL THROUGH THE HEART OF LAKE COUNTY ON THE COAST-TO-COAST CONNECTOR

Defining the future of eye care

chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com Editorial // Design // Photography

Leigh Neely Jason Fugate managing editor creative director leigh@akersmediagroup.com jason@akersmediagroup.com

James Combs Josh Clark staff writer senior designer james@akersmediagroup.com josh@akersmediagroup.com

AKERS MEDIA is proud to PRESENT a check to the EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION of Lake County for $1000 that was RAISED during our Style Singles event!

Theresa Campbell Volkan Ulgen staff writer designer theresa@akersmediagroup.com volkan@akersmediagroup.com

Debbi Kiddy Michael Gaulin staff writer production director debbie@akersmediagroup.com michael@akersmediagroup.com

Fred Lopez chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com contributors

Dondi Coté Fred Hilton Diane Dean Christopher Holmes Mary Ann DeSantis Nancy Howell Jessy Flinn Tom Kubala Chris Gerbasi Gary McKechnie Ron Vandevander

Get yours.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $72. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Style or Healthy Living. Choose 2 or more magazines for $85 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.

sales // marketing

Tim McRae David Coté vice president, sales & marketing advertising executive tim@akersmediagroup.com david@akersmediagroup.com

Mike Stegall Tina Morrison senior advertising executive mike@akersmediagroup.com

advertising executive tina@akersmediagroup.com

Sylvia Ducote Melanie Melvin advertising executive director of client services sylvia@akersmediagroup.com melanie@akersmediagroup.com Administration

Deb Matlock

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.

office manager deb@akersmediagroup.com

Aubrey Akers Shaena Chastain advertising coordinator receptionist aubrey@akersmediagroup.com shaena@akersmediagroup.com distribution

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

#Jaxon Strong

Brandon Buell’s blog about his son, Jaxon, and the positive impact that Jaxon’s life is making around the world.

Facebook Stay connected to everything going on

Scott Hegg distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

Lake & Sumter Style is a proud member of

Florida Magazine Association

Leesburg Partnership

Leesburg Chamber of Commerce

Tavares Chamber of Commerce

South Lake Chamber of Commerce

WINNER OF

150+ Lake Eustis Area Sumter County Chamber of Chamber of Commerce Commerce

American Advertising Association

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2017 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.

Creativity at its peak

Pinterest Follow us for creative inspiration.

SERVICING ALL YOUR CREATIVE NEEDS INCLUDING

ADVERTISING // BRANDING // DESIGN // MEDIA PLANNING // INTERACTIVE PUBLIC RELATIONS // PROMOTIONS // AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 352.787.4112

Twitter Follow @GetStyleMag and @GetHLMag

YouTube Visit our channel to see exclusive videos

January 2017

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T H I S ‘ N ’ T H AT

21 In the Know

Funds UnlockED with a $50,000 grant for new educational programs.

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I n Th e Know #TR ENDING

NEW

T R A I LW I N D S O F T H E V I L L A G E S

Lowe’s nails down a new location

A site plan approved by the Wildwood City Commission for a Lowe’s home improvement store in the new Trailwinds of The Villages development means greater shopping choices.

The 105,259-square-foot store will feature a smaller, higher efficiency design than older stores like the one along U.S. Highway.

27/441 in Lady Lake and will open by the end of 2017. Since the store plans to cater to customers who buy online, you can shop in your pajamas and go to the store for pick-up whenever you decide to go out!

Stuff the bus

Nearly

10k

pounds of food collected in the 11th annual Stuff the Bus Food Drive!

Hats off to Lake County Transit Division staff and volunteers for collecting a total of 9,736.75 pounds of food during the recent 11th annual Stuff the Bus Food Drive.

Bags of nonperishable foods were stuffed inside a Lake County Connection bus while it was parked outside Publix stores in Leesburg, Eustis, Clermont, and Mount Dora Wal-Mart, and the food was divided between the Salvation Army in Leesburg, Lake Cares Food Pantry in Mount Dora, and the Angels of Mercy in Clermont.

Walk ‘n stroll

Since October 2016, seniors meet every Wednesday and Friday at Palmetto Point Park, located at 1651 Hicks Ditch Road, in Eustis to walk from 8-9 a.m. What a great way to get in shape for the new year-physically, mentally, and socially! For more information, contact Sara Alvarez-Torre at 352.357.8510.

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J o s h Ta k e s O n : AN ADMITTEDLY ASKEW POINT OF VIEW FROM THE MIND OF ILLUSTRATOR JOSH CLARK

Go the extra mile Snowbirds love the outdoors in January and among the popular walking trails are:

PEAR Park 5335 University Ave., Leesburg, from dawn to dusk

Lake Griffin State Park 3089 U.S. Highway 27/441, Fruitland Park, from 8 a.m. to sunset

Venetian Gardens 109 E. Dixie, Leesburg, from dawn to dusk

Alexander Springs Rec. Center 49525 County Road 445, Altoona, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Lake Louisa State Park 7305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont, from 8 a.m. to sunset.

January 2017

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I n Th e Know #TR ENDING

Ja m e s C o m b s’

1

After a dog named Buddy was euthanized, members of Responsible Dog Owners of The Villages appeared at a Sumter County Commission meeting to express concern about the county’s handling of lost and abandoned animals. Perhaps this will spark a new movement called “Dog Lives Matter.”

2

One man and two women were arrested after having sex in their car with the windows rolled down while parked at a grocery store in Eustis. I think the man misunderstood the grocery store’s sign: “Buy one get one free.”

3

A neurologist who practices in Summerfield was charged with battery after a domestic violence incident at his home. I can only assume the person he attacked must have gotten on his… well…nerves.

NEW

O N 4 4 1 I N TAVA R E S

A slice of the action

New construction means new jobs. Flower’s Foods is opening a new bread distribution center and store selling day-old bread near Sun Cycle and Lake School District’s administration building.

The $1 million facility will receive and distribute products from Flower’s Tampa bakery and deliver to local retailers such as Wal-Mart, Winn-Dixie, and Publix.

4 A Umatilla woman

was arrested after hitting her fiancée in the head with a lamp because he refused to have sex with her. The lamp broke, meaning there were now two things in the bedroom she couldn’t turn on.

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5

An air conditioning contractor working without a contractor’s license stole thousands of dollars from a couple of Villagers after charging them and never doing the work. That’s not very cool.

6

After being invited to a man’s home to watch a NASCAR race, a Lady Lake tree trimmer got into a physical altercation with his host and was arrested for disorderly intoxication. Fighting over a NASCAR race? A psychiatrist is highly wreck-a-mended.

This makes perfect scents

With the rise in cases of Alzheimer’s and dementia, an alarming number of people have wandered away from home in Florida.

The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is taking steps to help families and caregivers dealing with someone who is a wanderer. The Human Scent Preservation Kit is available at several locations and is free. This powerful tool will preserve a human scent for seven years and DNA for six months. The kit includes a jar, a sterile pad, a label, and an evidence seal. For complete instructions and information on these kits, go to www.sumtercountysheriff.org and look under Public Information. The kits are available at no charge from the sheriff’s office in Bushnell or the annex in The Villages for residents of Sumter County.

$50,000 grant winners

Lake County has creative educators with big ideas to benefit students, including Cindy Bellamy of Mount Dora High School who was awarded $41,466.51 from the Educational Foundation of Lake County to fund a career and college readiness through a skilled labor project, while teachers Gail Tyson and Sarah Baltunis of Leesburg High School received $9,746.25 for an integrated digital and animated learning program.

Both of the fully funded projects were part of the inaugural $50,000 UnlockED educational grant from the foundation.

Twirling in prime time The Prime Time Twirlers, who were recently featured in the “VStyle” section of Lake & Sumter Style, have big news! They’ve been asked to audition for the popular NBC television show, “America’s Got Talent.” Eight of the popular performers are going to the Jacksonville Convention Center on Jan. 7 to perform for a scout, who found them while perusing YouTube videos. “We were in the ‘Showcase of Talent’ at La Hacienda Recreation Center this summer, and someone filmed it,” says Elin Jones, the group’s leader. “They’re looking for senior performers and we believe we can go all the way.”

Stay tuned for updates!

Taxes and guns Not only can you get your driver license, motor vehicle title or registration and pay your property tax at the Sumter County Tax Collector’s office, you can now apply for a conceal/ carry gun permit. Though the Florida concealed weapons license is processed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the high demand for these permits raised the need for more locations to apply. The tax collector offices now have the authority to take applications, photos, and fingerprints of citizens who want permits. This information is sent to the proper department for final determination.

Make appointments to apply at www. sumtercountytaxcollector.com and go to the office at 7375 Powell Road, Suite 135, in Wildwood.

January 2017

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I n Th e Know PER SON OF I N T ER EST

V I TA L

S TAT

Kate DiCamillo

S

Author Kate DiCamillo grew up in Clermont and moved to Minnesota in her 20s. Her first novel “Because of Winn-Dixie” in 2000 was a bestseller and garnered her a Newberry Award.

Her latest novel, “Raymie Nightingale,” was a No. 1 New York Times bestseller list.

Raymie Clark, hero of the book, was inspired by the author’s own life and growing up in Central Florida.

Passion for writing: I love the written word and I love connecting with people through story. I feel so lucky to be a writer.

Secret to success: Librarians, booksellers, teachers, and parents—all those people who put stories into kids’ hands.

My hero: All those people who put stories into kids’ hands.

Pet peeve: People who don’t pay attention to the people around them.

Favorite quote: “Be kind, for everyone

She has published 21 books and has 22 million copies combined in print worldwide with books translated in 41 languages.

Her final book in the “Tales from Deckawoo Drive” series will come out in September 2017.

you meet is fighting a weary battle.”—Plato? Goethe? Don’t know for sure who said it. But I love the sentiment.

Greatest career achievement: When a kid tells me that they love to read because of one of my books.

Favorite memory of Clermont: Spending all day at Jaycee Beach.

Guilty pleasure: Pizza!

Dream dining companion and food: Pizza! And Eudora Welty.

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I n Th e Know OU T S TA N DI NG S T U DE N T

V I TA L

S TAT

S

Passion For Animals She has raised pigs and shown prizewinning goats at county fairs, and won the $1,000 Randy Jones Sr. Memorial Scholarship through the Miss Leesburg Scholarship Program.

Now Attending Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College in Tifton, Georgia

Katlyn Carney

Free Time Often spent at a Weirsdale farm where she assists in caring for several goats and does other farm work.

Age 19 // F I R ST AC A D E M Y-L E E S B U R G G R A D UAT E One word that describes me: Faithful

A special moment: I have a lot of special moments. The one that stands out the most is when Rebecca, one of our goats born on the farm that we bottle raised, won Junior Grand

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Champion and Best Overall Doe in one of the shows we went to at the beginning of the year.

My goals: To become an agriculture teacher and help my students discover their passion.

One thing I would change:

corn, and mac and cheese.

My college not being so far from home.

Hobby: Working with farm animals

Best advice ever given: No matter

Biggest Influence: My

what anyone else says, always be you.

Pet peeve: When people chew with their mouths open.

My favorite food: A meal consisting of smoked sausage,

she always puts others before herself.

best friend Keri Sredl.

My role model: Keri—because no matter what happens,

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I n Th e Know T H I S ‘N’ T H AT

No Golf, Smoking or Saturday Crossword Puzzle

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We do something worthwhile in the process.

Last year for our very first singles event we raised money for a family in need.

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It’s January. Maybe not the best month in the year but it’s certainly the first. Several extremely important things take place in January. In order of significance, they are: my birthday, the Super Bowl, and 87 college bowl games.

STORY: FRED HILTON

M

any of us make New Year’s resolutions in January. Fewer than 10 percent are completed.

The problem: most people set the bar too high. They set difficult goals impossible to reach—lose weight, get in shape, and make more money.

Those are tough, folks. Make it easy on yourself. Don’t make a resolution hard to keep. Make resolutions you can handle.

As a public service, I offer my list of 2017 resolutions I guarantee I can achieve.

I will not eat any eggplant.

It’s ugly, misshapen, a weird color, squishy, and has the consistency of bad tofu. It isn’t even a vegetable.

It’s a fruit, although rarely mistaken for a peach.

I will not smoke again.

A resolution to quit smoking was one I made, and broke, for about 20 years. I finally quit a few years back—26 years, eight months, three weeks, two days and 37 minutes ago.

But who’s counting?

I will not start playing golf.

Along with at least 18 other people who live in The Villages, I do not play golf.

Furio Giunta, who was one of Tony Soprano’s musclemen, succinctly described golf as “a stupid bleeping game.”

It would be unwise—and probably dangerous—to disagree with Furio. I became disenchanted with golf as a teenager and played my first—and last—hole of golf on a regulation course. It was Caddy Day at the country club and caddies could play for a couple of hours. I tagged along with my buddies to try the game. However, I swing

left-handed and nobody had left-handed clubs. I played the entire hole with a putter. Shot a 26, as I recall. I did play a par-three course a few years later and managed to break 20 on one hole. I decided to quit while I was behind.

I refuse to try to work the Saturday crossword puzzle.

I am addicted to crossword puzzles. My mother worked the crossword puzzle every morning for years so it must be in my genes (five letters: “inherited characteristic units”). However, the Saturday puzzle in The Villages Daily Sun is impossible. It’s created by a sadist (six letters: “pain causer”). If I get three words in the puzzle, it’s a good day. The only person who can work the Saturday puzzle lives in a tree and works them day and night. He only comes out to get another newspaper and eat berries and crickets.

The person who comes up with the best list of resolutions wins a case of eggplants.

Fred Hilton Fred Hilton spent 36 years as the chief public relations officer/spokesman for James Madison University in Virginia and 10 years prior as a reporter and editor for The Roanoke Times in Roanoke, Virginia. He is now happily retired in The Villages with his interior designer wife, Leta, their Cadillac Escalade golf cart, and their dog, Paris. (Yes, that makes her Paris Hilton).

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YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

VISION

defining the future of eye care

A history of clearer vision and brighter outlooks –

and it’s only the beginning.

Four Decades of

EXTRA

W

hen Lake Eye first opened in 1977, it was a single office devoted to the most advanced eye and vision treatments and procedures available. Today we have expanded to four offices, each built on our continued commitment to state-of-the-art technologies and by our team of five experienced and talented Board-Certified ophthalmologists, whose foremost mission is to promote and protect healthy vision.

The doctors and staff of Lake Eye are proud of the 40 years we have provided clear, crisp vision to the people of Lake and Sumter Counties. It is a tradition we intend to honor through the generations to come.

These five accomplished and highly experienced ophthalmologists compose a team whose expertise covers the entire spectrum of vision disorders and eye diseases, as well as the most sophisticated surgical and procedural treatments available today.

They, along with a caring and proficient support staff, possess the training, experience, talent and consideration to make every patient feel supported, cared for and protected from sight issues. It is a mission that has fostered 40 years of growth and many thousands of satisfied patients.

MARK VOCCI, MD joined Lake Eye in 1991. “My many years in practice have afforded me a chance to offer thousands of patients comprehensive exams to discover diseases early when they are most and most treatable tre reat atab able le a nd easily managed.”

A ORDINARY CA R E MEET

OUR

SCOTT WEHRLY, MD entered the practice in 2001. “Lake Eye embraces the most revolutionary advances in the treatment of cataracts, refractive errors and other vision problems. As part of its surgical its su surg rgic ical al team, tea eam, m, I’m I’m m proud to be a local leader lead le ader er in in th the e treatment trea tr eatm tmen entt off eye disease disease and and d dysfunction.” dysf dy sfun unct ctio ion n.”

DOCTORS

SHELBY TERPSTRA, DO has provided comprehensive ophthalmology services at Lake Eye since 2002. “The past 15 years have allowed me to meet and treat countless patients for sagging eyelids, glaucoma, glau gl auco coma ma,, dry dry eye eye and other issues. It’s incredibly incr in cred edib ibly ly rrewarding.” ewar ew ardi ding ng.”

SCOT HOLMAN, MD joined in 2007 and has since performed more than 15,000 successful cataract and corrective lens replacement surgeries.

“My background working with the country’s most respected ophthalmic resp re spec ecte ted d op opht htha halm lmic ic surgeons made me perfect a pe perf rfec ectt fit wi with th tthe he Lake L ak ke Eye Eye tteam eam and d overall over ov eral alll mission.” miss mi ssio ion n.”

VINAY GUTTI, MD entered the practice in 2014 and is the newest member of the team. “I specialize in cataract surgery and intraocular lens replacement, including the newest extended range lenses, corneal lens le nses es,, co corn rnea eall transplantation and more. honored more mo re. I’ II’m m ho hono nore red d to belong to b elong l tto o such h an esteemed este es teem emed ed practice.” pra ract ctic ice e.”

O N T H E C OV E R

O U R PA T I E N T S S AY I T B E S T When we asked our patients their opinions about Lake Eye’s doctors and staff and our many services, we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of satisfaction and support. Here are just a few of the responses.

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT “We started seeing VISION Dr. Vocci for our general eye exams and we love him – he’s such a kind, caring person and a consummate professional. Dr. Vocci discovered a tiny hemorrhage in Gerry’s eye caused by macular degeneration and it’s completely under control now. Who knows what might have happened if Dr. Vocci hadn’t caught it in time!

“Since then, we’ve seen Dr. Wehrly for cataract surgery and both had great outcomes.

“I also saw Dr. Terpstra for blepharoplasty, and again, had excellent results. The whole practice is truly a class act and we have and will continue to recommend them to our friends.” defining the future of eye care

–John and Gerry Tobia

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

“I did my own research and decided to have Dr. Holman perform cataract surgery with the Symfony IOL. My vision improved immediately! It truly was life changing!”

–Maureen Calvesio

“Since having cataract surgery with Dr. Wehrly, I feel more confident driving at night and I don’t need glasses for daily activities. Now, I can sign my name without searching for my glasses!”

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

–Judy Menefee

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

“Heavy eyelids run in my family. Mine had gotten so bad it was really affecting my peripheral vision, especially while driving. Dr. Terpstra was wonderful! It was such a quick procedure procedure. Wish I’d done it 20 years ago.”

“My cataract surgeries went great. I can’t believe how much better I can see and how bright colors are! I definitely recommend Dr. Gutti!”

“The entire staff treat you tremendously! They are the epitome of professionalism.

Before eyelid surgery I looked like my father and after, I look like a whole new person. I would recommend Dr. Terpstra to anyone.”

“Dr. Terpstra and the entire staff were great through the whole process. It was completely painless. I’m so happy I can see!”

–Angelo Seno

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

–Patsy Frey

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

–Mike Flasch

–Rose Ann Leahy

YEARS OF

BRILLIANT

the future of eye care VISION defining

Marilyn Richwine Zilligen Ma September 3 at 7:17am Sep

Dr. D r. Wehrly performed the surgery on the one eye e ye that I had sight in. His surgery was brilliant and have perfect with my “good” eye. I THANK YOU perfe fect vision v DR. WEHRLY. WEHRLY LY. I love lov Lake Eye and all their wonderful employees!

Raymond Jackson September 1 at 5:33pm

Dr. Holman is the best Eye doctor I ever went to. I highly recommend him for any surgery!

Delores Kelley Dennis September 3 at 12:59pm

I really like Dr. Wehrly. I am very happy to have him as my Eye Doctor. He is very professional and thorough with your eye exams. He treats you as if you are his only patient. I would not consider going to anyone else. I also think they have a very professional staff.

OUR SUPPORT TEAM & VISIONARY SERVICE

A

mong the reasons Lake Eye has been able to thrive and grow throughout Central Florida for the past four decades is our dedicated support team, whose members make patients’ care and comfort their number one priority. Most of our trained and knowledgeable staff have been with us more than a decade, giving them tremendous experience supporting both patients and doctors.

From front desk duties to medical assisting to billing, our team does it all and does it well. Their longevity with Lake Eye is an ongoing testament to the dependability and quality of our care. In fact, Lake Eye is consistently named among the Orlando Sentinel’s “Top 100 Places to Work in Central Florida.”

“I started at the front desk registering patients,” says optician Sharon Deveney, who has been with Lake Eye for ten years. “The doctors provided me with tremendous support while I went through the training and education to become a licensed optician. Lake Eye is so involved with continuing education, wellness programs and other support systems, with staff, patients and the community.

This is a wonderful place to work.”

“I am proud to work for a company that is so involved with the community and their patients,” says Amanda Van Vleet, COA, who just celebrated ten years with Lake Eye in October.

“All of the doctors are very passionate about what they do, and they’re great at what they do. The fact that we’ve been around for 40 years says something.”

“For 15 years I have seen how new technology and techniques have sharpened our ability to

Dianne Murphy Bissett August 31 at 5:20am

Super doctors! The handsome doctor on the left performed surgery on both of my eyes (Dr. Holman)

It’s been an amazing journey!

1977

G

I

F

E

H

D

bring good vision n health to patients,” says Gayle Yarbrough, OCS. “One patient told me that hat his friends recommended nded Lake Eye because we are miracle workers and could d fix his double vision and d maybe help his golf score. I’m m happy to say we did both.”

“We’re very proud oud of our staff,” says Dr. Scot Holman. man. “They are every bit as important rtant to Lake Eye’s reputation and longevity as the other elements ments we credit for our ongoing success, uccess, such as our leading-edge e technologies and the many firsts ts we have pioneered over the he years.”

By “firsts” Dr. Holman lman is referring to the many new advances in eye and vision care are introduced to Lake County by y Lake Eye’s education- and technologyechnologydriven doctors, including cluding LenSx x® laser assisted cataract aract surgery, the safest and most ost accurate cataract surgery system ever created, the ORA™ A™ Optiwave refractive analysiss system for ultimate accuracy y in astigmatism correction and intraocular lens (IOL) placement, and the

‘77

Practice opens in Eustis

1987

‘88

Leesburg office opens

’91

J

L

K M

groundbreaking Symfony y® IOL, the only FDA approved extended depth of focus lens offering continuous vision correction at all distances. Lake Eye was also among the first local practices to offer endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) surgery to safely treat both glaucoma and cataracts in the same operation.

Dr. Vocci joins practice

‘00

The Villages office opens in the Sharon L. Morse Medical Building

’01

These and other revolutionary procedures are performed by Lake Eye’s highly skilled BoardCertified surgeons, Drs. Scott Wehrly, Scot Holman and Vinay Gutti, at the Santa Fe Surgical Center in The Villages.

Shelby Terpstra, DO uses the

Dr. Wehrly joins practice

‘02

Dr. Terpstra joins practice

1997

‘05

First ReStore procedure

B

C A O

N

A: Li A: Linda Lin da Ri Ricketson, PHR Dir Director of HR/Marketing; B: Sarah Gray, APM Accounts Payable; C: Karen Schnaufer, Billing; D: Debra Meadows, Front Desk; E: Vicki Durden CPC, OCS Billing Manager; F: Amanda VanVleet, COA; G: Robyn Riddle, COA; H: Nikki Reynolds, COT, Practice Administrator; I: Sharon Deveney, LDO; J: Lisa Pemberton, Billing; K: Dawn Hughes Hughes, COA COA, ROUB; L: Gayle Yarbrough, OCS; M: Tina Kahl, COA; N: Glenn Long, COT; O: Rachael Nicholson, OSC

‘07

Dr. Holman joins practice

‘09

Eustis office moves to new facility at Waterman in Tavares

‘11

Santa Fe Surgery Center opens, first procedure

2007

center to perform c cosmetic and reparative c blepharoplasty, which b is surgery to correct drooping, sagging eyelids and help restore peripheral vision and a more youthful and rested appearance.

“Not all practices have surgeons who specialize in eyelid surgery,” says Dr. Terpstra, “but we believe Te it’s important to offer treatments for all areas of trea vision and eye health, not visio just a few.”

To that end, in addition to offering general eye care, offeri Dr. Vocci also provides painless Voc testing fo for environmental allergies and prov provides custom-created all-natural all-natura immunotherapy allergy d drops patients can take daily und under the tongue. “Over time, the body adapts to the allergens and stops reacting to them, relieving sneezing, itchy, wa watery eyes, and other symptoms. symptom Sublingual drops work like allerg allergy shots, but are safer, easier to use, painless and far more convenient.”

‘12

First in Lake County to bring LenSx® to cataract surgery

‘12

Received Top 100 Places To Work from the Sentinel (and

‘14

Of course, Lake Eye’s doctors also treat the complete gamut of eye diseases and disorders as well, including macular degeneration, low vision, dry eye, red eye, diabetic retinopathy, refractive errors, amblyopia, floaters and flashers, and the list goes on. “If it has to do with the eye, we treat it,” says Dr. Wehrly. “We make it a point to offer everything, so patients know they’ll never be sent to some outside provider.

It helps to solidify comfort, trust and lifelong relationships with patients.”

This is why each and every Lake Eye office features an on-site Precision Optics department, which provides dedicated care from licensed opticians, and an enormous range of designer-name frames, specialty lenses, contact lenses, sunglasses and accessories. “For most patients, a new or updated prescription is all they need to see clearly and safely,” says Dr. Vinay Gutti. “So we make sure we maintain a wide selection of options to address vision, comfort and personal style.”

Dr. Gutti joins practice

‘15

Sunset office opens

every year after!)

2017

‘16

First Symfony Implant procedure performed

From general eye care to the latest in eyeglasses and specialty lenses to sight-restoring and cosmetic eye surgeries, Lake Eye is your one-stop provider for a lifetime of clear, crisp, healthy vision.

Visit the Lake Eye Associates office near you, and see what you’ve been missing.

THE VILLAGES 1400 US Hwy 441 N, Suite 521, The Sharon L. Morse Building, The Villages, FL 32159 | 352-750-2020 LADY LAKE 801 CR 466, Suite 102, Sunset Plaza, Lady Lake, FL 32159 | 352-350-2070 TAVARES 3310 Waterman Way, 3rd Floor, Tavares, FL 32778 | 352-343-2020 LEESBURG 601 E. Dixie Avenue, Medical Plaza 201, Leesburg, FL 34748 | 352-365-2020

www.LakeEye.com

THE COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION EXPERTS

As an owner, bringing your services or organization to market quickly is what makes your business successful.

We specialize in bringing projects from the conceptual idea to final delivery quickly and cost effectively through our integrated team approach.

Through a collaborative approach, our clients, design teams and construction professionals produce the end results successfully, faster and with better value than any other approach. Cost effectiveness, cooperation and creativity are taken to a new level.

We offer advisory, budgeting, construction and project development services along with proven design build and construction management for any project.

Call Mark Starcher to discuss your project ideas at 352-433-5606

866 S. DUNCAN DRIVE

■

TAVARES, FL 32778

■

352/227-1460

EVERGREENCM.NET

It seems this part of Central Florida is flourishing. New businesses are popping up all over Lake and Sumter counties. New people are making Real Florida their new home and the new president has everybody talking!

STORY: LEIGH NEELY, JAMES COMBS, THERESA CAMPBELL, DEBBI KIDDY

THE

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NEW ENERGY

Holloway Solar Farm

W

hen Dr. Rufus “Dick” Holloway looks at the acreage his family owns in Leesburg and Fruitland Park, he doesn’t see a scruffy field. He sees hope, a chance to have an effect on the local economy, and a legacy for his family for generations to come.

“I want to keep this land natural,” Dr. Holloway says. “My family has owned it for a long time, and I want it to stay in the family, preserved naturally.”

Plans are currently underway to turn this beloved piece of Holloway family land into a solar farm—an alternate energy facility to produce clean energy and create jobs for the area.

His wife, Leslie Scales-Holloway, shares his passion, but also adds her own personal elements to the process. Leslie’s dream is to make the old barn still standing on the property an educational facility to give school children a chance to learn the concepts and benefits of solar energy and possibly provide a laboratory for post-graduate students working on ways to store solar energy for later use.

“I’m an educator at heart, and this idea came to me after many years as a school board member,” Leslie says.

The Holloways are basically in the middle of the process of completing a business plan that meets the requirements of all concerned— the towns, commissioners, and regulations to be able to sell electricity into the grid, which will then distribute it to customers.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

LESLIE SCALESHOLLOWAY & DR. RUFUS HOLLOWAY HAVE GREAT HOPES FOR THE FUTURE WHILE PRESERVING THE PAST.

January 2017

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THE

“We’re hoping by the end of 2017 we will be well underway or completed.

I think that’s a realistic possibility.”

— DR. HOLLOWAY

Dr. Holloway says they’ve been dealing with three aspects of this plan. First, trying to decide how they’re going to put the solar farm on the property, they came up with the decision that about 100 acres of the 250-acre farm will go to the solar farm. The rest will be for solar education, including the barn.

“All of this will be a natural environment,” he says. “Our main objective is to keep everything looking as it does now.”

The second aspect is finding a buyer for the electricity. “In Florida, it’s illegal to sell electricity to anyone other than a utility,” Dr. Holloway says. “So we’re dealing with several utilities that have the potential and the interest in buying. The size of the solar farm will be something in the neighborhood of 26 megawatts, providing the equivalent of enough electricity for more than 3,000 homes, and that’s according to the National Renewable Energies Lab.” Third, in between all of this, has been the search for who’s going to build the solar farm and how to finance it. The Holloways are in the process of talking with institutions that have a strong interest in building and also in financing. If all that comes together, they should be able to see their dream become a reality.

“All the studies are done, the zoning is accepted—and was favored by Leesburg and Fruitland Park, with the vote 10-0, coming from five commissioners in each city,” Dr. Holloway says. “We’re

hoping by the end of 2017 we will be well underway or completed. I think that’s a realistic possibility.”

He went on to say the No. 1 goal is to develop a market for the product so when the solar power is turned on, it’s ready to furnish power for those interested in the service.

Dr. Holloway says, “We’re supplying a small plant that instead of using gas or coal to produce electricity, it uses the sun. The most expensive part of energy plants is the fuel used. Producing solar energy is more competitive now, and it’s not nearly as expensive as it was five years ago or even three years ago.”

Leslie’s goals include providing a place to help young minds work together to solve one of the biggest problems with solar energy— the storage of solar energy so it can be used when the sun isn’t shining. This has been the biggest obstacle to the affordable use of solar energy. Working on that aspect is where the educational side of the project starts.

While working with the school board of Marion County, Leslie was a part of the process of creating the Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center.

“Through foundation grants, we brought all the third graders there to teach them about the aquifer. They would see the exhibits, showing them what the water is all about,” Leslie says. “Then they would study about it for a while, and then get in glass bottom boats and actually see it.”

The idea of making the solar farm an educational tool came to Leslie after her experience with the museum and seeing the response of the children to the handson learning of how Florida gets its water supply.

“I see us doing something similar to Silvery River with the solar energy for Lake County,” Leslie says. “We have an existing building, but

DR. RUFUS & LESLIE SCALES-HOLLOWAY

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HOLLOWAY PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

ISSUE

work can be done on it—we just have to find a way to get it done.”

Her research indicates students everywhere are working on storing solar energy. “If we can give them a laboratory, they can put their dreams into action. We need to teach them at an early age about using clean solar energy.

When we teach them, they go home and talk to their families and friends about it,” Leslie says. “I believe when these children come to a place so close to them and so cutting edge, it will excite them.”

The couple has talked to the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida sustainability departments and have plans to visit the University of South Florida. “They’re excited to hear about this. We have to make this happen,” Leslie says. “We’re trying to get the information now to apply for grants. We have a wonderful solar spill, and it’s a beautiful day with a cloudless sky and endless energy coming from the sun. We have to help the public understand this is clean energy.”

Dr. Holloway says a major item presented to the city councils was the image this project could create for both towns. “We want to do anything to promote this region,” he says.

“Even though I practiced medicine in Orlando for 40 years, I graduated from Leesburg High School in 1954. I have lots of friendships here, and we’ve stayed close to these towns all these years.”

He says the idea of solar energy is catching on everywhere, and that’s propelling them to keep moving forward.

“I lived in Marion County 44 years at Lake Weir, and my late husband’s family were pioneers in citrus there. After we were both widowed, Dick and I found each other, and, though I still own my home in Weirsdale, this area means a great deal to me. He has enough passion for both of us. Leesburg hasn’t benefited much from the growth in this area, but this solar farm will help.”

It’s a family legacy for Dr. Holloway. “My family has owned this land since 1952, and I want to keep it in its natural state in perpetuity as we always planned. The mission of our foundation is to educate the public of all ages so that we can all become better global citizens.”

NE W PL AYGROUND

Palatlakaha park Clermont has opened a new playground at Palatlakaha Park. Known as “Park Pals” to the locals in the area, it is at 1250 12th St., Clermont. It’s a great place to run off some of the extra Christmas goodies as well as an inexpensive place to take the kids for New Year’s.

The new playground is designed to significantly improve health, learning, and social inclusion of the children while standing up to tough Florida weather.

The material construction is by Kompan, a global leader in playground equipment. The equipment is made for all ages and the unique designs make it perfect for any location—urban or rural.

The best signs of success are the bright smiles on the little faces of the children climbing, jumping, and swinging proving the new playground is definitely a big hit!

January 2017

39

THE NEW GUN RANGE

ISSUE

Family-friendly range When it comes to indoor gun ranges, Franklin Dickinson is armed with innovation, imagination, and creativity.

His Jacksonville-based company, Basics Range and Gun, features both a bull’s-eye range for shooting accuracy and a tactical range for law enforcement officer training. It has become wildly popular among gun owners and police officers alike.

Dickinson, a developer in Orange Park, is bringing his concept of a “family-friendly” gun range to The Villages. He is currently working on the design of a 24,150 squarefoot facility to be built on U.S. Highway 27/441 just north of Lady Lake.

Dickinson has his sights set on opening the range in December 2017. He vows it will be worth the wait.

“It’s going to be a first-class range,” he says. “You won’t see rednecks in here; instead, you’ll see grandparents, grandchildren, and families. There is no age limit. I’m not a gun freak, but I do love people and there are lots of people with

guns. They should be able to visit a gun range where there’s a warm, fuzzy feeling.”

Much like his Jacksonville location, the gun range will feature 20 shooting lanes that are divided into a bull’s-eye range and a tactical range. The tactical range features moving targets and helps prepare law enforcement officers for hostage simulation, active shooter scenarios, and decision-making drills. Firearm enthusiasts can shoot up to a .308-caliber bullet on the bull’s-eye range and a .50-caliber bullet on the tactical range.

Dickinson also plans to offer weekly firearm instruction classes for women and children. In addition, he will provide discounts to law enforcement officers, military servicemen, and firefighters.

He’s excited to open a second gun range near The Villages.

“I love the growth of the area and the fact that it’s very conservative,” he says.

“I think gun enthusiasts will find that our range offers an extremely safe and welcoming environment.”

NEW HOMES

Rapid growth ahead for Wildwood Record numbers of permits for new homes in Wildwood are arriving daily, and not only putting a strain on employees, but also on the city’s wastewater treatment system. Overall, however, city officials see this as beneficial.

“The City’s Development Services Department supports the commission’s desire to encourage and promote growth,” says Melanie Peavy, development services director for the city. “We strive to get potential developments to ‘YES’ but remain mindful of the sense of community.”

According to the budget document, they must quickly respond to staffing needs—add two police officers, an accountant, a senior planner, a water operator trainee, a mechanic, and a utility cashier. Upwards of 1,000 residential building permits are expected in the next year.

In terms of revenue, the city may see an increase of more than $413,000 from new developments. Current property owners should not have to pay more unless their property value rises. The surge in residential growth also means more jobs and opportunities for local businesses.

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NEW SHOPPING PLAZA

Freedom Plaza Early craftsmen-style architecture is in the works for Freedom Plaza, a multi-faceted development of stores, offices, and restaurants on 14 acres off State Road 44, east of County Road 301 in Wildwood, and adjacent to Brownwood.

“It’s going to be a gorgeous project,” says Manager John Toscanni of Preferred Realty Management, who notes the plaza is still in the planning stage.

“We have five properties we independently own, manage, and developed in The Villages and Lady Lake, as well as Freedom Plaza, which we will be bringing out of the ground in 2017,” he says.

Freedom Plaza will feature 93,000 square foot of mixed-use space as a professional plaza comprised of retail, commercial, select professional offices, and hospitality restaurants.

“The restaurant pad is basically 6,000 square feet with an outside patio,” John says, adding an additional 4,000-squarefoot-unit will possibly attract a breakfast chain.

The land for Freedom Plaza was annexed into Wildwood more than a year ago. Additional details and renderings for the project can be viewed at preferredrmg.com.

NEW EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

LRMC expansion $27M expansion in works for LRMC

WILLIAMS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

G

roundbreaking on a $27 million project to expand Leesburg Regional Medical Center, a part of Central Florida Health, is slated to take place this month, according to Ted Williams, president of the LRMC Foundation.

“We want to finish it by December 2017,” he says.

The first floor of the three-story facility features 24 beds for the expansion of the emergency department; the second floor will be a 24-bed addition to the observation unit, and a third-floor shell is looking to the future that will convert to additional hospital beds—all part of another short-stay wing.

“We will have a cat walk that connects to the main hospital to the second floor where we can transfer patients to surgery or intensive care unit, and that is where our critical care is now on the second floor,” Ted says.

He credits foundation donors for being supportive of the capital campaign for the expansion.

“We do have a family that committed $10 million toward this project, and it’s a dollar-for-dollar match, so that gives us $20 million out of $27 million to reach our goal,” Ted says.

He notes the foundation is vital to the hospital’s success.

“We appreciate all of the support of the community, and without the support, it would be impossible to construct our facilities, such as the expansion of the emergency department,” Ted says, adding some 48,000 patients visited the Leesburg ER last year alone—a higher number than ever before.

“The need continues to increase because of the growth of The Villages, and there are more and more moving closer to Fruitland Park, and it’s a shorter drive for those residents to come to Leesburg,” Ted says. “We’re trying

to provide a bigger, faster, and better facility to move patients quicker and to treat them and to either admit them as in-patients or to release them to go home. The new facility can handle the patient load.”

Two years ago LRMC embarked on the capital campaign for a 24-bed expansion of the observation unit on the hospital’s first floor of Leesburg; more than $3 million was raised for that project.

“The community is really behind us, and they support Leesburg Hospital as their hospital,” Ted says, adding recent proof was the majority of voters who cast ballots for approval for North Lake County Hospital District to continue providing charitable care to North Lake patients in need.

To learn more about the LRMC Foundation, call 352.323.5500.

“We appreciate all of the support of the community, and without the support, it would be impossible to construct our facilities, such as the expansion of the emergency department.”

— TED WILLIAMS

January 2017

41

THE ISSUE

NEW AMENITIES

NEW MARRIAGE

Salvation Army Worship & Service Center

Newlyweds!

T

he Salvation Army’s new $6 million Leesburg worship and service center sits on 10 acres at 2605 South Street, and is much larger than its previous facility.

It has more amenities to better meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the community, including a chapel, fellowship hall, commercial kitchen, dining room for 120, a library, classrooms, computer lab, basketball court, teen center, ping pong and pool tables, and other attractions.

“We also have seven acres to expand; the opportunity is incredible,” says Lt. William Conley, corps officer along with his wife Veronica.

For those who remember the Salvation Army’s humble and former West Main site, the new 30,000 square-foot facility is

42

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worth touring. Young people are invited for after-school functions such as tutoring or homework assistance, along with lifeskills programs and activities for families.

“This is a place where people feel safe,” says Veronica.

The corps officers were hopeful 200 people would attend a school-related function at the center, and were thrilled when 650 showed up. The Conleys also recognized this area’s senior population and recently hosted a senior expo with 40 vendors.

“And we started a program called Embrace, an opportunity for a group of men, women, parents, to come together have a meal, and inspire good conversation,” Will said.

He’s pleased the Salvation Army’s commercial kitchen can also be a teaching kitchen, and has been in contact with Lake Technical Center with hopes of offering vocational training for kids in the culinary program.

“It’s something that is in the works, and we hope it happens in the near future,” Will says.

He also envisions the kitchen being a site where families can learn to make quick meals with their SNAP cards (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps) and with pantry food from the Salvation Army.

Halley and Forrest Watson, married Oct. 15, 2016, are happy newlyweds in 2017.

Having dated almost four years, Forrest says he decided to “pop the question after driving all over town looking at Christmas lights.” He adds, “Once you find the perfect girl, who is always there to support you and push you to do your best, you marry that girl.”

Halley says, “After we dated for about a year, I knew he was the one. Forrest pulled off the perfect proposal on Christmas Eve. He even made sure my nana and mom were there to video the whole thing.

Of course, I said ‘Yes!’”

NEW ACTIVITIES

Lake Louisa State Park

NEW PEOPLE

SALVATION ARMY AND HAINES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

The Haines Thais Haines and her husband Bob recently moved from the New Jersey shore to Mount Dora and are truly enjoying the area along with their beloved dog Bosco.

“I never thought I would move to Florida, but I love the atmosphere of Mount Dora. I love the fact that it’s quiet yet the downtown is so nice and people are so friendly,” Thais says. “We’re only 50 minutes from Orlando and an hour from the ocean. We have a water view and looking at the lake is like meditating.”

Population estimates predict growth for this area to continue though Lake County’s population total fell from 323,984 in April 2015 to 316,569 in April 2016. However, the estimate for April 2017 in Lake County puts the numbers back up to 339,789 supported by the continued development and growth of new homes and businesses. Sumter County’s population grew from 115,447 in April 2015 to 119, 007 in April 2016, with projected growth to continue this year, bringing the estimated population up to 125,102 in April 2017.

Arden Tilghman touts Clermont’s Lake Louisa State Park as an “incredibly untapped resource” for adventure as it’s filled with more than 20 miles of paved and unpaved trails, seven lakes, hiking, biking, horseback riding, guided eco-tours, fishing, wildlife viewing, camping, geocaching, and more.

“Over the next 18 months, more will be added to that already robust list,” says Arden, managing partner and founder of P3 Lake Louisa, the official concessionaire for the park. “P3” stands for People, Profit, and Planet, and the company works with the park to bring additional activities and services, including the Camper Canteen and the Hitching Post.

“The Camper Canteen will provide souvenirs, snacks, camping supplies, and sundries for campers and daily visitors alike,” Arden says. “It will also act as a meeting location and service center for our guided eco-tours, event information, and special activities that will take place in the park.”

The Hitching Post will be the park’s onsite equine facility.

“This will be home to our herd of happy horses, as well as the service location for scheduling and checking in for guided trail rides,” he says.

The two services launched in December.

“We envision both expanding significantly over the next six to eight months,” says Arden, adding growing P3 Lake Louisa has been an adventure, too.

“It has been more fun, more work, more exciting, more rewarding, more everything than we could have imagined,” he says.

“Growing P3 Lake Louisa with the exceptional support of the Friends of Lake Louisa State Park, the surrounding community, and the park staff has been a privilege.”

To learn more, visit LakeLouisaStatePark.com.

January 2017

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THE

It’s a boy!

Todd and Caitlin Harris have baby No. 3 coming Feb. 13!

Boomer will soon meet his brothers—Gunner, 4, and Cannon, 3. “Gunner is very excited to have another brother,” Caitlin says. “Cannon is a little more cautious about it.”

The Harris family lives in Eustis, and is working on balancing the family’s schedule. Todd is a police officer for the City of Clermont and Caitlin works full-time and is studying online for a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She plans to go right to work on her master’s degree as soon as that’s completed.

“We’re eager to see the new baby’s personality and how it will blend with Gunner’s and Cannon’s,” Todd says.

It’s a girl!

Aylee Rae Scott was born on Oct. 6, 2016, to proud parents, Tyler and Aleetra Scott of Tavares. The delightful little girl is their first baby and the first grandchild for both families.

“It has been so much fun just watching her grow and develop,” Aleetra says. “She coos and sticks her tongue out. She has been a good baby, already sleeping all night.”

The couple feel parenting is a gift for them.

“Everybody warned us about sleepless nights and the bad stuff, but it hasn’t been that way at all. Nothing has been too hard,” Tyler says.

The high school sweethearts think their little girl is the perfect new addition for the New Year.

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NEW PRESIDENT

Hail to the chief or hell to the chief?

In November, real estate mogul Donald Trump won the presidential election upset by defeating Hillary Clinton.

He amassed 306 electoral votes and won Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania—states normally elusive to modern-day Republican presidential candidates. We asked Lake County residents how they felt about his victory and what they hope he achieves as president.

“Each morning, I spend two hours praying for the president and his new cabinet members. God is going to make America great using men like Donald Trump to make changes. I hope he shakes the apple tree and gets all the rotten apples out. I also want him to bring industry back to America and run America like a business, the way it is supposed to be run. Finally, I hope Roe v.

Wade is overturned. I stand with the Word of God when it comes to abortion. He will no doubt face opposition, but I hope he stands his ground.”

—GARY HAGEN

BABIES! AND SALON JAYLEE PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

Babies!

ISSUE

NEW STYLE

“I didn’t vote for Trump so I’m on a tightrope.

We’ll see where things go. I’ll sit back and watch. I think his biggest priority should be uniting this country. That’s a big part of his job. A president is like a mother—he has to love us all.” —KALI TELANA “Straightening out Washington and creating good-paying jobs are priorities. He needs to cut taxes and make healthcare affordable. I’m glad we have a president who speaks his mind.” —DELL ROSS “I hope he can overcome the controversial image he created for himself on the campaign trail so we can unite behind him. He said things that kept people from rallying behind him so many people are worried about a Trump presidency. I hope he alleviates their concerns.”

—SANDI MOORE

Salon Jaylee Everybody knows how wonderful it is to get a makeover. Well, the popular Salon Jaylee has a brand new look, making it the place for true style.

“We opened this Salon location over 14 years ago,” says Janet West, president of Salon Jaylee and TENAJ Salon Institute, “and we are beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to completely remodel and update the salon from top to bottom for our staff and our guests.”

While work was being done, the stylists from this location worked at Rolling Acres and Colony Plaza salons. However, they returned for training on the new Freestyle Dryer Systems in mid-December and have been back at “home” ever since.

“We have new LED lighting, the Freestyle Dryer Systems is suspended from the ceiling, new massage backwash shampoo units,” Janet says. “We have many new items that were selected for our staff so they can provide the best experience possible for our guests.”

Celebrity Stylist Martino Cartier was on hand to do the training. Martino is well knows for his work with women who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy.

He does it all pro bono, and information about it is at www.

FriendsAreByYourSide.com; he was also selected as Entertainer of the Year at the annual Home Shopping Network Awards.

CELEBRITY STYLIST MARTINO CARTIER TRAINS THE STYLISTS AT SALON JAYLEE TO USE THE NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT.

“The biggest thing he needs to focus on is not letting his alligator mouth affect his ability to do the job in an effective manner.”

—JEANNE THORPE “I didn’t vote for Trump, but I’m hoping he can get Democrats and Republicans in Congress to work together. What an amazing feat that would be.”

—BERT HOGAN

January 2017

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THE NEW BUSINESS

ISSUE

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, a discount chain in Leesburg carrying closeout housewares, food, and toys, was one of thousands of new businesses that opened in 2016 in Lake County. According to Tina Carpenter, director of tax services for the Office of Lake County Tax Collector, there were 2,066 business tax accounts that opened Jan. 1 to Nov. 29, 2016. “Of those 2,066 accounts, 71 of them closed during the same date range,” she says. “Overall, Lake County is home to 19,147 active business tax accounts.

NEW ENTERTAINMENT

Mount Dora Epic Theatres Where do you view the most recent action thriller, romance, or dramatic adventure flick? Not home with Redbox or Netflix because some movies just scream to be seen on an Epic huge screen!

Mount Dora residents are anxiously anticipating the opening of the local Epic Theatres 12-screen multiplex between Target and Wal-mart.

According to Frank DeMarsh of Epic Theatres, construction should begin this month and the theater open within 11 months.

Features of the new theatre include: Leather electronically controlled recliner seats with footrests Wall-to-wall screens with 3D capabilities 100 percent digital projection and digital sound Closed captioning and descriptive audio for hearing- and sight-impaired guests A lobby bar serving adult beverages in a family-friendly environment Reserved seating with online ticketing Remote ticketing kiosks Two EPIC XL large format auditoriums with 70-inch wide curved silver screens and state-ofthe-art immersive digital sound

NEW EVENTS

Let the good times row

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Clermont is the site of the 2017 USA Canoe/ Kayak Sprint National Championships for the first time. From Aug. 2-5 on Lake Minneola at Waterfront Park, the event is projected to attract more than 1,000 athletes, coaches, and spectators.

“We are honored and thrilled to be the host city at the 2017 USA Kayak/

Canoe Championships,” says Clermont City Manager Darren Gray. “We look forward to welcoming the athletes, coaches, and fans with open arms. We celebrate the championship spirit and look forward to making the championships memorable for all involved.”

Jason Siegel, interim president of the Central

OLLIES, BOB EVANS & WAWA PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

• • • • • • • •

NEW RESTAURANT

Breakfast rises in The Villages Bob Evans is has a new 7,200-square-foot restaurant off County Road 466A in the Colony Plaza in The Villages. The grand opening is scheduled for Jan. 17.

Larger than normal, this location features patio seating of 30 in addition to the 180 seats inside.

This is the second Bob Evans in The Villages and has a prime location in front of Publix across from Walgreens. Look for a brand new design with a new look to the dining room, a community room, bakery, retail area, and a farm table for large parties.

You can eat a hearty meal at 6 a.m. to dessert and coffee until 9 p.m. seven days a week. The restaurant features a catering kitchen to better support the needs of The Villages community. Residents anxiously await the new Bob Evans. If you like a particular dish, Bob Evans also offers recipes, coupons, and gift cards on their website www.bobevans.com.

Florida Sports Commission, which pursues marquee and amateur sports events for the Central Florida region, says the commission is committed to working with USA Canoe/ Kayak to ensure the success of the event.

In 2016 alone, the Central Florida Sports Commission brought in nearly 300,000 visitors and a $135 million economic impact to the region.

NEW CONVENIENCE

Get your fill at Wawa The Wildwood City Commission paved the way for a Wawa, a more upscale convenience store, to be built on the northwest corner of the intersection of County Road 466 and U.S. Highway 301.

“We welcome new development,” says Wildwood’s Development Services Director Melanie Peavy, following the action of city leaders who recently approved the annexation and rezoning of 5.4 acres for the business along with the site plans for the project.

She says some of the infrastructure work on the project needs to be viewed and approved by Sumter County officials.

Wawa first opened in Folsom, Pennsylvania, in April 1964, and now has more than 700 stores in the mid-Atlantic area, according to the company’s website. Wawa opened its first Florida location in July 2012, and the company has its sights set on adding 120 Florida stores by 2022.

Wawa stores, which offer breakfast fare, soups, hoagie sandwiches, salads, wraps, fresh coffee, hot and cold lattes, and rolls baked fresh in stores, usually have more than 5,000 square feet of retail space plus gasoline.

No projected opening date for the Wildwood store has been announced.

Melinda Mack, executive director of the South Florida Canoe Kayak Club, called Clermont’s Waterfront Park a “true asset” along with the people working to grow the sport.

Over the years Lake Minneola was the site of many national rowing and triathlon competitions, but this will be the first time the USA Canoe Kayak National Championships is hosted in this area.

Visiting canoers and kayakers will find Waterfront Park also includes a bike and hiking trail that is the center of Florida’s Coast-to-Coast Trail, a new, interactive splash park, a million-dollar boathouse that is home to canoeing, rowing, sailing, and dragon boats; picnic tables, grills, a basketball court, two playgrounds, fishing piers, a preserve, championship disc golf, and a chain of lakes.

FOR ALL YOUR PERSONAL INSURANCE NEEDS.

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Investing in you, since 1937.

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Where Art & Medicine come t gether

FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDICAL SPA

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PROBLEMS WITH YOUR PROSTATE? Does this sound familiar? As you grow older, do you realize you are getting up more often at night to urinate? Have you come to accept this as in inevitable part of aging as your father did or his father before him?

There is no need for men to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older. Dr. James Young, a down-to-earth urologist in Lake County since 1982, has successfully treated thousands of patients who suffer with enlarged prostate (BPH).

What’s even better is that treatment options are more numerous and far less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Dr. Young is internationally recognized as one of the leading experts in Prostiva RF Therapy, an in-office procedure for the treatment of enlarged prostate in men. Prostiva utilizes low-level radiofrequency energy to destroy the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate The procedure allows men to stop taking medications for their prostate issues without undergoing major surgery.

That distinction has placed him on Castle Connelly’s prestigious Top Docs list for five consecutive years.

“Dr. Young is one of the pioneers

and current leaders of in-office BPH therapy, particularly with the Prostiva RF therapy system,” said Greg Fluet, former CEO of Urologix, Inc. “He has been a consistent and committed champion. For that, I have significant respect and admiration.”

Dr. Young has performed more Prostiva procedures than any urologist in the United States and possibly the world. In 2014, he performed nearly 400 Prostiva procedures, accounting for approximately 5 percent of the 8,000 performed worldwide.

The procedure is performed in Dr. Young’s office under local anesthesia. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for many patients using Prostiva RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated nearly 3,000 patients with this procedure.

Not only is Dr. Young happy; patients are extremely satisfied, as well. That’s evidenced by the glowing reviews he receives on healthgrades.

com and vitals.com from patients who underwent the procedure.

“His revolutionary procedure was easy with very little discomfort,” wrote one patient.

“My urinary problems have disappeared, I sleep better, and have significantly more energy,” another patient wrote.

Dr. Young encourages all patients to visit vitals.com and healthgrades. com to find for themselves what patients are saying. Dr. Young’s Healthgrades online profile was visited 2,311 times between January 2015 and January 2016, ranking him 18th among 978 urologists in Florida.

Always striving to be on the cutting-edge of therapies to treat enlarged prostates, Dr. Young will soon be offering a new procedure called Rezum. This safe and efficient treatment uses thermal energy in water vapor to remove obstructive tissue surrounding the prostate. The procedure is performed in-office

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

under local anesthesia or oral sedation. Dr. Young will be the first urologist in Central Florida to offer this cutting-edge treatment.

“It takes less time to perform and destroys even more of the obstructive tissue. It also has rapid symptom relief and minimal discomfort. I’m usually not a doctor who jumps on new technology, but I’ve talked to many urologists who have studied this procedure in clinical trials and are now using this therapy at their practices today.

They are extremely pleased with the results they’re receiving.” ________________________________

JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D. Board-certified Urologist Practicing in Lake County since 1982 with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

Comprehensive care If you are a first-time patient of Dr. Young, you will receive a detailed examination.

“When I see a new patient I perform physical examinations and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” Dr. Young said. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him.

Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.”

While prescribing medications for enlarged prostate can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, officebased therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy.

With an office staff with nearly

as much experience as the doctor (many have worked with Dr. Young for 25 years), you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients.

We respect our patients’ time as much as we do our own. Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are waking up at night and have difficulty falling back asleep because you’re worried what may be wrong, then it is time to check in with Dr. Young and have him examine you.

“Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it.”

Prostate Cancer Screening

James W. Young III, M.D. Nationally recognized board-certified urologist

Annually over 50 years of age (At age 40 if family history or African American)

For more informaiton and to see actual patient testimonials, please visit:

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Introducing Rezum Therapy for enlarged prostate.

Medicare, TRICARE, and most medical insurances accepted.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

ang

Facing an ac tive shooter s ituation.

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STORY: LEIGH N EELY

Columbine. Aurora.

Sandy Hook. The Pulse.

T

here’s no need to explain these words.

As you read them, pictures of horror, grief, and death come to mind in an instant. Shooters, mass homicide, and terror that stays with you for years.

According to a recent FBI study, this type of shooting has occurred in 40 of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The date that sticks in the minds of those who live in Central Florida is June 12, 2016, when a security guard killed 49 people and wounded 53 others at The Pulse Nightclub in Orlando.

Lt. Ralph McDuffie, of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, says people look at incidents like this and say, “Our world is falling apart.” The seasoned SWAT commander says that just isn’t true. In 1997, an ancient mass grave was uncovered by archaeologists that contained the bones of about 100 people, all of whom died grisly deaths.

“Mass homicides have been happening from the beginning,” McDuffie says.

“It’s just that we have 24-hour access to the world now, and we know everything that’s going on.”

Most people think the tragedy at Columbine High School was the first mass murder of school children.

Again, not true.

In 1927, a farmer and treasurer of the local school board blew up his home and outbuildings and then set off

bombs at Bath School, killing his wife, 38 children, and five other adults. He waited nearby in a truck until first responders were helping the survivors and then detonated dynamite to kill himself and several others. Most likely the news of this event barely made it outside of Michigan.

“I do training for large groups of people—the Department of Children and Families, the staff in all these nearby government buildings, and large faith-based organizations—and I tell them all the world is not in any worse shape than it has ever been,” McDuffie says. “We just know about everything that happens now as soon as it happens.”

McDuffie also notes it is usually an American who carries out these attacks, not a foreign-born person. “I don’t call them ‘active shooters,’” he says bluntly. “I call them ‘active killers’ because they come into a place planning to kill as many people as they can before they kill themselves or are stopped.”

According to an FBI study, “active shooter” is a term used by law enforcement to describe a situation in which a shooting is in progress and an aspect of the crime may affect protocols used in responding to and reacting at the scene of the incident.”

This means the “active” suspect indicates that not only can law enforcement personnel affect what eventually happens but private citizens may play a part in it too.

Homeland Security has several resources for private citizens including downloadable pocket cards, “Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide” and “Active Shooter Booklet” to read and study.

“The booklet Homeland Security puts out has all the correct information for individual survivability,” McDuffie says. “It’s the same information we deliver to government employees, private sector businesses, and faith-based groups. This is the acceptable protocol for all government buildings.”

It sounds so simple: run, hide, fight. But it’s not simple at all, of course. When you’re in the midst of a desperate situation, it’s difficult to think clearly and act accordingly.

However, if you’re aware of these steps and have prepared your brain to respond in that way, it may be your key to survival.

There is also a video from Homeland Security available on YouTube.com that demonstrates what employees should do when an active shooter situation occurs in the workplace. “This was filmed in Houston and was professionally done,” McDuffie says. “I think it’s one of the best resources there is. It’s only five minutes long, but it’s effective and makes a difference.”

McDuffie says experts have found that generally the shooter follows four distinctive steps in every situation: the idea, the plan, preparation, and action. All of this occurs after a life crisis puts the shooter in the frame of mind to do something that makes a big impact and ensures people

“Mass homicides have been happening from the beginning, it’s just that we have 24-hour access to the world now, and we know everything that’s going on.”

—LT. RALPH MCDUFFIE

Scan the code to watch the “Run, Hide, Fight” Homeland Security Video

January 2017

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remember the event for many years. McDuffie estimates these predictors occur in more than 90 percent of incidents.

The first stage is when the idea occurs to the individual and develops after they have decided to use violence to accomplish a goal. The second stage is planning—naming the specific group; setting a date, time, location; and planning a route. Third is the preparations stage, where materials are gathered and practice begins, whether it’s building bombs, learning to load guns rapidly, or engaging the help of someone else.

After this is done, others may notice a period of peaceful silence from the individual.

The fourth stage is when the planned event occurs with the intent to inflict as much death and damage as possible.

Most people believe that someone who can carry out an act of such violence is a sociopath or psychopath.

Again, McDuffie says that’s just not true. “Only one person has been deemed a sociopath—Eric Harris from Columbine. He drug [Dylan] Klebold down with him because Klebold was having lady problems.”

When doing his presentations, McDuffie stresses how important it is to be aware of what’s going on around you in your dayto-day work world. “If you hear a coworker say, ‘I hate my boss. I’d love to kill him,’ don’t let that pass without doing something,” McDuffie says. “It’s not normal for people to say that. Go to human resources or if it’s a small business, go to your boss. There may not be a need to fire the employee,

By the numbers

11.4 Average number of incidents occur annually

6.4

Average number of incidents that occurred in the first 7 years studied

16.4

Average number of incidents that occurred in the last 7 years studied

70

Percent of incidents that occurred in either a commerce/business or educational environment

Shootings have occurred in

40

out of 50 states and the District of Columbia

60

Percent of the incidents that ended before police arrived

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“Panic and anger are emotions that short-circuit the thought processes, which needs to be avoided in times of threat and danger.”

—JOSEPH STEED but this is definitely a situation that should be dealt with immediately.”

This coincides with the Homeland Security directive seen in airports and other transportation facilities: “If you see something, say something.” Knowledge is power in this situation as in any other. Make people aware of anything that leaves you feeling uneasy or frightened.

It’s also important for businesses to conduct training exercises so people automatically respond in the proper way. Know where to go so you can get out of the shooter’s path in the quickest manner.

“Wherever I am, I’m aware of exits and ways people can come in,” McDuffie says.

“Like most law enforcement personnel, I won’t sit with my back to a door. I need to know how to get to safety quickly.”

Many people are aware of an incident in an internet café in Ocala where an armed elderly man shot two would-be robbers. When the robbers made their threats, some customers tried to hide, others simply sat and waited. Without warning, the elderly man stood, pulled his gun out, and shot the first robber. The second one ran, but the old man was able to shoot him too. Though both would-be thieves escaped, they were eventually arrested and charged with attempted armed robbery and felony criminal mischief. The customer who fired at the men had a concealed weapon permit and was not charged with any crime.

McDuffie strongly believes in the right to bear arms. “I’m a second amendment guy. I really am. My daughters both

Good practices p ffor coping p with an active h

LAKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE SWAT TEAM CONDUCT A TRAINING EXERCISE.

shoot,” he says. “I have a 14-year-old and an 11-yearold, and they both shoot.”

Joseph Steed of Clermont routinely teaches firearms classes at Joseph Steed’s Archery and Firearms, LLC. He also provides advice on what to do in active shooter situations.

“Panic and anger are emotions that short-circuit the thought processes, which needs to be avoided in times of threat and danger,” Steed says. “Remain calm and in control, which I know is easier said than done.

However, there is hope.

Actively practicing remaining calm during traffic jams or composing yourself when you are cut off in traffic makes you aware.”

He goes on to say it also helps to practice remaining calm with your children,

spouse, your employer, clients, or coworkers when they get on your last nerve.

This type of practice serves you well.

“Most active shooter incidents occur in well-lit, open areas with crowds of people. Think malls, outdoor gatherings, schools, churches—in these scenarios be aware of all exits before trouble starts,” Steed says.

“Don’t try to exit the same way the aggressor came in.

Have a backup-planned exit.

This only requires a quick visual assessment upon entering.”

To be able to carry a weapon in public areas, you will need to take a Florida Concealed Weapons and Firearms License Training class. This four-hour class is required before you can apply for a concealed/carry license

in this state. It involves three hours of classroom instruction and one hour of range instruction and qualification. Joseph Steed is one of several instructors in the area. He also teaches a two-hour class on handgun marksmanship as well as a class on handgun safety and orientation.

The number of incidents is staggering, and the battle over gun control is debated daily. Second amendment rights are extremely important to Americans, though some would like to see more thorough background checks.

Unfortunately, there are no easy answers. However, preparing yourself and knowing ahead of time what you would do in an active shooter situation is definitely a step in the right direction.

attempt to take the active shooter down.

When the shooter is at close range and you cannot flee, your chance of survival is much greater if you try to incapacitate him/her CALL 911 WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!

January 2017

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Ap the ollo ir m Ele SEE STO ark ctric RY on ma .

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On The Scene T H E T O-D O L I S T

January JAN 7

Science Saturday Join the Ellis Acres Nature Center’s staff on an adventure of exploration and discovery while brushing up on your science. Topics may include arthropod adaptations, animal habitats, outdoor life, aquatic organisms, and more. Ellis Acres Nature Center 25302 County Road 42, Paisley. 9-11 a.m. For more information, call Wendy Poag at 352.516.7456 or email wpoag@lakecountyfl.gov JAN 6 & 20

Clermont Comedy Series Every other Friday, the Clermont Comedy Series presents the best

in stand-up comedy featuring headliners and crowd favorites from TV and national tours. Beer, wine, and craft beer available at concession.

Clermont Performing Arts Center.

3700 S. Highway 27. Cost: $15

JAN 12 JAN 10

Project Legacy Project Legacy hosts its annual “Legacy in Motion” gathering at Heritage Community Church. The organizations that receive assistance from Project Legacy represent the future of the community and there is also a positive impact now from what they do. Since its inception six years ago, Project Legacy has invested more

JAN 20

Kenny Rogers Grammy Award-winning superstar and Country Music Hall of Fame member Kenny Rogers has enjoyed great success during a career spanning nearly six decades. This is his Final World Tour: The Gambler’s Last Deal. Show starts 7 p.m. and tickets are $35 - $200. For more information, visit TheSharon.com. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main St., The Villages.

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than $80,000 in more than 40 area organizations that work with children.

509 W. Berckman St., Fruitland Park, 9 a.m. Email g8rlady@gmail.com or call 352.406.1769 for information.

Johnny Mathis—The Voice of Romance Tour 2017 Celebrating his 61st year in the music industry, legendary singer Johnny Mathis is Columbia Records’ longest-running artist. Mathis has performed songs in an incredible variety of styles and categories, from music composed for stage and film to golden era jazz standards, contemporary pop hits, and holiday music. Show time at 7 p.m. and tickets are $75 - $225. For more information, visit TheSharon.com. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main Street, The Villages.

JAN 13

Up, Up, & Away Starring Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. These two stars are the voices, original stars, and lead singers of the legendary group, The 5th Dimension, before leaving the group in 1975.

Show time is 7 p.m. and tickets are $25 - $150. For more information, visit TheSharon.com. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main Street, The Villages.

FEB 4

Celebrate Public Service Celebrate Our Police, Firefighters, EMS, and Military personnel at the Celebration of Heroes at Waterfront Park. Admission is free and the event includes food and games with entertainment from Rob Nichols, Anita Drink, Baby Blues & the No Attitude Band and others. There will also be Challenges of the Heroes and Relay with Your Heroes. Feb. 4, 11 a.m to 6 p.m. Waterfront Park in Clermont.

JAN 13

Pavlo Over the span of his 20-year career, Pavlo, the internationally renowned, award-winning recording artist, performer and songwriter, released 10 albums of his own music, plus two collaborative projects. Pavlo is a true world artist, famous for bringing every audience to its feet. Show starts at 7 p.m. at the Savannah Center, 1545 Buena Vista Blvd, The Villages.

JAN 14-15

Florida Highwaymen Art Show & Sale Presented by Heron Cay Bed & Breakfast Inn. This features the original artists: Mary Ann Carroll, James Gibson, Issac Knight, Robert (R.L.) Lewis, Roy McLendon, and others. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at The Donnelly Building, Mount Dora.

For information contact Heron Cay B&B at 352.383.4050.

JAN 28

Late Night Catechism Comedy Show An uproarious piece of theater that takes audience members back to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Mount Dora Community Building Theatre, 520 N. Baker Street, Mount Dora.

Cost: $25 - $35. For more information, call Brian Young at 352.217.5072 or email visitmountdora@gmail.com JAN 29 & 30

Hollywood’s Greatest Game Shows hosted

by Bob Eubanks Anyone who's ever dreamed of being part of a game show could be a contestant this January, when every participant wins and one person might take home $100,000. At each of the four performances, $5,000 in prizes will be given away and one lucky contestant will drive away with a brand new golf cart! Show time will start at 5 p.m. and tickets are $20 - $65. For more information, please visit TheSharon.com.

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main Street.

FEB 3

Styx The six men comprising Styx committed to rocking Paradise together with audiences far and wide by entering their second decade of averaging over 100 shows a year. Styx draws from more than four decades of chart hits, joyous sing alongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. Show time is 7 p.m. and tickets are $55 - $125.

For more information, please visit TheSharon.com. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main Street, The Villages.

JAN 22

Ballets with a Twist: Cocktail Hour Cocktail Hour reinvents the glamour and excitement of classic entertainment with an original mix of charismatic choreography, intoxicating music and exquisite costume design. This pop-infused production combines the magnetism of Hollywood's Golden Age with a sleek 21st-century sensibility. It captures the American spirit in a series of vignettes. “Witty and fantastic,” (The New York Times). Show time 7 p.m. and tickets are $20 - $42.

For more information, visit TheSharon.com. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center 1051 Main Street, The Villages.

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

January 2017

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On The Scene IN CONCERT

DATE

TIME

ARTIST

VENUE

1/4

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/6

8pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/6

9pm

Conflict of Interest

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/7

9pm

Conflict of Interest

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/8

7:30pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/11

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/12

7pm

Johnny Mathis

The Sharon, The Villages

1/13

6pm

Still Kickin’ Bluegrass Band

Paquette’s Farmall Museum, Leesburg

1/13

7pm

Pavlo

Savannah Center, The Villages

1/13

7pm

Up Up & Away Starring Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis

The Sharon, The Villages

1/13

9pm

Gary Powers

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/14

8pm

Da Boys

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/14

9pm

Gary Powers

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/15

7:30pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/18

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/20

7pm

Kenny Rogers

The Sharon, The Villages

1/20

9pm

The Missin’ Piston

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/21

9pm

The Missin’ Piston

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/22

7:30pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/25

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/27

9pm

Bassville

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

1/28

8pm

Da Boys

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

1/28

9pm

Bassville

Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg

2/1

7:30pm

Jeff Whitfield

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

2/3

8pm

Defenders of Daisies

Ruby Street Grill, Tavares

2/3

7pm

Styx

The Sharon, The Villages

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).

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On The Scene LO C A L TA L E N T

It’s All the Same

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The songs we write are based on what happens in our lives.

One by one, we make unity, and we tell people what’s going on with us.

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They are five guys who are full of energy and music. (L-R) Eddy Wiggins, Steve Wild, John Carter, Anthony Smith, and Ryan Wilnau are Apollo Electric, a local band that’s definitely making its mark.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY // PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

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his group of musicians has been together for almost three years, but Ryan and Eddy have been working together for six years. Eddy plays the keyboard, does vocals, and raps. Ryan is on guitar with Anthony on Bass. Steve is the drummer and John does vocals and plays guitar. Their music is eclectic—rock, funk, rap, R&B. “It’s just fun music,” Steve says. “We try to get fans dancing and having a good time. We want people to have as much fun as we’re having on stage.”

Though they’re from all over Florida, they’re based in Mount Dora, and soon they’ll be going to Mobile, Alabama, to record a full album.

Ryan has been writing songs since he was 3 years old, and now he collaborates with his wife. “The songs we write are based on what happens in our lives,” he says. “One by one, we make unity, and we tell people what’s going on with us.”

Anthony didn’t get into music until he was 18. “I’ve loved it ever since. I was in a punk band before this, and I love playing bass.”

“I’ve always been around music, and I began playing when I was 8,” Ryan says.

“My whole family sang in church, and my mom recorded with a Christian artist. I found happiness playing in front of people.”

“Music is a roller coaster,” John says.

“But a song can take you back and make you feel good,” Eddy adds.

The one tenet all five members share is family is important. Ryan is married to Amber, and John’s wife is Joy. The band has a song called, “A Million Miles Away,” that says it all. “Whether I’m a million miles away or lying right beside you, I promise to me it’s all the same.”

Get info on Facebook at ApolloElectricMusic or appolloelectricband.com, their website.

They also enjoy giving back and did a local Christmas benefit. Future plans include a trip to Nashville. Keep an eye out, Apollo Electric is sparking with energy.

Life More Than Imagined New 55+ Community in Clermont

55

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GATED COMMUNITY

For those who understand that life is meant to be lived well, welcome to Esplanade at Highland Ranch!

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HighlandRanchFL.com | 983 Ridgeglen Way, Clermont, FL 34715 | 352-415-4237 (Blackstill Lake Rd & Old Hwy. 50) Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All information (including, but not limited to prices, availability, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Manager for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. © December 2016, Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc. The Esplanade® name and logo are federally registered. #CBC1257822. All rights reserved.

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On The Scene O U T+ A B O U T

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Mother Nature smiled on Costa Rica, the Central American country where many Floridians are finding the call of the wild hard to resist. Lush, green rainforests, scenic ocean views, and unspoiled environments bring a new understanding to living a pure life.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS // PHOTOS: MARY ANN DESANTIS, COSTA RICA TOURISM BOARD

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o alarm clocks were needed in Costa Rica; after all, I had howler monkeys outside my window that screeched loudly when the sun was rising.

Sleeping late may not have been an option, but I didn’t really want to stay in bed when there were so many fun things to do and so many ways to find pura vida—the Costa Rican philosophy of enjoying life slowly and appreciating nature.

About the size of West Virginia, the small country is known for its rainforests and natural wonders. It’s a place where pura vida is more than the national greeting and motto.

The Costa Ricans—known as Ticos—relish and protect their environment. Life is indeed pure with clean air, natural foods, strong family ties, and healthy outdoor activities.

In 2015, more than 2.66 million tourists visited the country, and about 40,000 people have become “ex-pats,” making the peaceful, democratic country their new home.

“The environment is a huge part of the attraction,” says Gerald Baum, president and CEO of Baum Financial Services. He is also a principal in developing Arenal Hills, a luxury vacation and retirement property near La Fortuna and Lake Arenal in the north.

“Costa Rica is serious about ecotourism,” Baum adds. “It’s a compelling idea

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On The Scene O U T+ A B O U T

for a country to be so contemplative about nature and wildlife.”

Costa Rica has one of most diverse terrains on the planet, and 5 percent of all known species live there.

More than 25 percent of the land is protected in wildlife preserves and national parks. From the rugged Osa Peninsula in the south to the majestic Arenal Volcano in the north and everywhere in between, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise.

Baum also believes the location—only a four-hour flight from Orlando to San José—makes Costa Rica a popular destination with Americans. Visitors also become immersed in the Old World and romantic culture of the country that Spanish conquistadors began exploring in the 16th century.

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“Every time I go, a gear switches as soon as I get on the airplane,” says Baum. “A few hours later, I arrive in a different world.”

Indeed, the world was different in the Osa Peninsula, where I hiked, visited several yoga retreats, and enjoyed majestic mountain and ocean views.

Unexpected encounters with wildlife in their natural habitats made hiking a photographer’s dream, even if one of those encounters involved a white-faced cappuccino monkey throwing sticks at me while I focused the camera.

The monkeys might not have been friendly, but the people were. Residents were eager to share their “authentic” Costa Rica.

Visiting Rancho Raices de Osa, a working farm near Puerto Jimenez where I learned to make chocolate from cacao beans, was one of my favorite excursions.

Owner German Quiroz and his family opened their outdoor dining room for a real-life lesson about Costa Rican farming, culture, traditions, and—of course— chocolate. The family’s hospitality and knowledge make the Rancho Raices tours one of the most highly rated on TripAdvisor.

Yoga retreats, which are often owned by Americans, dot the landscape. Not surprisingly, many yogis have settled in Costa Rica, most likely searching for pura vida. Today, tourism centers on yoga and surfing, both of which are forms of active

relaxation. No matter your age, you can learn to surf with lessons from outfitters like the Pollo Surf School on the Osa Peninsula. The same concentration and balance are needed when practicing yoga in a pavilion overlooking the ocean.

A week is not enough time to enjoy all the activities Costa Rica offers. Horseback riding on the beach, kayaking the mangroves, rafting on the Balsa River, zip-lining through the jungles, and more await adventurous souls. And I know from experience just relaxing in a hammock on the beach is often the best way to find pura vida.

Focusing On Wellness While most tourists head to the more-developed north, others search for pura vida in the Osa Peninsula in the south where many eco-lodges focus on yoga and wellness.

Among some of the most picturesque: IGUANA LODGE iguanalodge.com: An eco-lodge near Puerto Jimenez, this rustic facility embodies pura vida with hammocks on the beach, nearby hiking trails, and yoga instruction for all levels, including yoga classes for seniors.

LAPA RIOS laparios.com: Set in a private nature reserve spread over 1,000 acres on the tip of the Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios is a National Geographic Unique Lodge that won worldwide awards for social and environmental excellence.

The 17 private bungalows are luxurious and set 350 feet above sea level.

ENCANTA LA VIDA encantalavida.com: This little gem calls itself a jungle beach lodge, and indeed it is. The remote location is perfect for getting away from it all. The hillside yoga pavilion has an incredible ocean view, and the vegetarian meals are delicious. Groups often book the nine rooms for retreats.

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Trip Tip Wet season in Costa Rica is usually May through November while dry season is December until April. As with most destinations, offseason (wet) offers the best hotel rates.

However, navigating remote areas like the Osa Peninsula can be difficult during heavy rains.

HACIENDA ALTAGRACIA

altagracia.aubergeresorts.com: In Perez Zeledon is a luxurious mountaintop resort where guests have their own “casitas” or private villas. Hike to a yoga pavilion, ride horses at the resort’s equestrian center, or enjoy a day at the world-class spa.

January

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January 2017

20 17 I

On The Scene SOCI A L SPOTLIGHT

A toast to terrific tunes In January, Lakeridge Winery presents one of the highlights of the year in this area—the Winter Music Series. Every Saturday this month, from 1-4 p.m., you can stroll through the rolling green hills of Clermont under a bright Florida sky and enjoy some of the many talented musicians from the area.

STORY: DEBBI KIDDY

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t’s always a treat to see the fields of luscious red and purple grapes, glass in hand while you sip the award-winning homegrown wines. The music just adds something special to the atmosphere surrounding all this beauty.

Officially opened in 1989, the Lakeridge Winery and Vineyard grows native varieties of Welder Muscadines, bronze Carlos, and red Noble grapes on their 127-acre estate in Clermont.

There are also the Florida hybrid grapes—Stover, Suwannee, and Blanc Du Bois. The Lakeridge Winery estate covers 127 acres, but they also own another 450 in the Florida panhandle known as Prosperity Vineyards.

The winery produces more than 100,000 cases of wine, which equates to more than 1 million bottles. You’ll also find their brand wines in major supermarkets and wine shops throughout

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Florida. In addition, Lakeridge and Lakeridge Reserve labels have won more than 600 awards for excellence in winemaking.

Haven’t experienced the fun of learning all about wine? Take the time to enjoy one of the complimentary tours offered seven days a week.

Tour Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.

The last tours begin at approximately 4 p.m., so be sure to plan accordingly.

The educational tours run every 15 minutes and last approximately 45-50 minutes. Included

Photo provided by lakeridge winery

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Performers for the Events JAN 7

Airtight, an invigorating interfusion of funk/jazz/ pop/world music. Founded in the Tampa area in 1989 by vocalist/drummer Marc Clermont, Airtight moved to Orlando in 1994, and was joined by bassist/vocalist/ producer Robert Wawoe and dynamic keyboardist/ composer Ed Krout. They continue to electrify audiences wherever they perform.

JAN 14

Old Skool, R&B, soul, and funk. Rockin’ to the oldies and having a great time.

JAN 21

Beautiful Bobby Blackmon & the B3 Blues Band play contemporary southern soul/blues and classic R&B music. In the past, they were the opening act for Buddy Guy and the legendary BB King. Band members include: Jack Bumgarner (keyboard), Jimmy Seay (bass) and Curtis Nutall (drums). Come enjoy their high-energy show. is a video presentation of the total process in making the wine—from the grape harvesting to the bottling of the wine—as well as a guided tour of the production area and a balcony view of the beautiful vineyards.

Then comes the amazing part of the tour when you have the opportunity to taste a variety of award-winning wines ranging from dry to sweet and sparkling. Brands you are privileged to taste include: Chablis, Chardonnay, Cuvee Blanc, Cuvee Noir, Pink Crescendo, Southern White, Southern Red, and Sunblush. In addition

to the complimentary winery tour and tastings, Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks, and a variety of food are available for purchase.

Finally, you’ll want to select from the wellstocked shop of wines, gourmet foods, gift baskets, or gift certificates for every budget.

Hint: Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

Bring your favorite lawn chair to enjoy the music offered during the month of January and toast yourself for finding such good entertainment so close to home.

JAN 28

Tory Wynter is an internationally acclaimed ambassador of World Music.

He’s an award-winning singer, composer, arranger, music producer, and recording artist. Tory has several songs that hit the No. 1 position on the Billboard Music Charts.

January 2017

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On The Scene HI, SOCIETY!

A Toast and a Taste

Guests at the Cooking with Vodka event enjoyed an evening of amazing gourmet food infused with vodka, jokes from the delightful Chef Jon Ashton, and raised more than $15,000 to benefit schools in the area. Local chefs participating in the event included Jessica Finn, Victor Donahey, Mike Hallermeier, and John Bell.

Courses included beef brouchette, salmon, pasta, and all of it was topped off with Victor’s lovely bread pudding and American Napoleon!

DARYLIN DOLIMPO AND SUZAANE VAN DE VIELD

PHOTOS: RON VANDEVANDER

LISA BALL AND DALL WADDELL DR. SANJEEV BHATTA, DR. PRITHA DHUNGANA, AND DAVID VAN DE VELDE

STEVE AND SANDI BRYAN WITH LAURIE HOINSKI

STEVE AND DONNA RICHEY

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TAYLOR PELFREY

CHEF JON ASHTON AND VICTOR DONAHEY III SALLY HOWE AND MARION DELAROCHELLE

BRANDON AND ALAN ASHE

CHEF JON ASHTON

AMBER BRYANT AND KARYSN CONNRLL

SANDI MOORE

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The Stars Came Out

In October, Joanmary Henns of Henns Auction Services hosted 150 attendees at the fourth annual Evening Beneath the Stars event to honor Lake Cares Food Pantry’s Executive Director Irene O’Malley. Guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, music, and live and silent auctions. For information about next year’s event, contact Susan Bennett at 352.742.6807 for An Above-Par Event.

PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

JACKIE AND JOSH BLAKE CHRISTINA JOHNSON JUDY AND SUZANNE BEVIRT WITH KRIS WARE

LARRY AND FRANCES TAYLOR KEITH SHAMROCK AND BOB BEUCHER

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CONNIE PRUDHOMME AND TONYA MASS HOLLY FORBIS, THERESA HENNS, ROD BILLETTE, JOY GARZA, AND RACHAEL HUETT

RANDY FINK, MD, FACOG

PAMELA COOK, MSN, NP

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On The Scene HI, SOCIETY!

A Howling Anniversary

Gator Harley celebrated their 23rd Anniversary Howl O Ween Bash in October with two days of music, fun, and, of course, motorcycles! For the first time, employees participated in a pumpkin carving! Music filled the air as customers enjoyed vendors, watched fire fighters bob for apples, and even decorated themselves with a little face painting.

ALLEN KINGORA AND JOHN SILVEIAR

PHOTOS: DONDI COTÉ

TINA MORRISON AND TRACI GAMBLE

CAROL BORTO/BRITTNEY ROACH JOSIE MCBRIDE, BOBBIE GAINEY, AND SUSAN THOMPSON

LAUREN AND JOHN MARCUS JOHN MALIK, DALLAS SUMMERLIN, AND SCOTT HAEHN

KRISTEN MAJOR, BRETT SINGER, AND ALEX MALIK

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Come to The Dentist and let us make your smile great again!

IMPLANT SEMINAR - Jan. 23rd | 5:00 p.m.

Waterfront Inn - 1105 Lakeshore Drive, The Villages, 32167

Complimentary Exam and X-Rays EXAM - D0150 XRAY - D0210 (excludes emergencies) *For new patients without insurance only. Emergency exams excluded. Cannot be combined with other offers. Must present coupon to receive offer.

352. 480. 0 8 0 0 • 3 0 7 L ag r an d e Bl vd , La d y L a ke • w w w. c om e t ot h e d e n t i s t . c om *Offer expires one month past publish date. Scan the code for more offers and to watch our latest video. FREE implant & denture consultations. We process dental claims. Financing available with approved credit.

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the discounted fee or reduce fee service, examination or treatment. Fees may vary due to complexity of case. This discount does not apply to those patients with dental insurance or discount plans, fees are minimal.

Carlos Medina, DMD

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On The Scene HI, SOCIETY!

Luncheon’s Legacy Continues for Emergency Services

Sponsored by the Florida Emergency Physicians, the Ladies Legacy Luncheon of the Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation was held in October.

Attendees enjoyed browsing exhibitor booths and watching demonstrations, and the luncheon’s guest speaker was Candace Huber, RN, BSN, MPH, director of mission development at the hospital.

CHERIE PIERCE, DEE WALKER, AND TONI DEAHTHERADE JEAN ARNOLD AND LINDA SHEETS

PHOTOS: SYLVIA DUCOTE

ARCHANGLELE MAUGER AND PHYLLIS GIORGIO

MELISSA VU

LEE ANN GILSON AND KASEY HOBBS

JENNIFER WOLGAMOTT AND SHAWNDA DAVIS SHELLY MASS, CINDI NICHOLSON, STEFFANIE HUFFINES, AND EDLYN FERNANDEZ

MARY ANN KOWALSKI

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WHEN CLEAN JUST ISN’T CLEAN ENOUGH.

FREE ESTIMATES // LICENSED & INSURED // DANUCC@AOL.COM // CALL TODAY 352.753.8653 COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES FOR: BANKS // DOCTOR’S OFFICES // PROFESSIONAL BUSINESSES // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CLEANING SERVICES ALSO INCLUDE: FLOOR MAINTENANCE // CARPET CLEANING // WINDOW CLEANING CLEANING SUPPLIES: PAPER // CHEMICALS // EQUIPMENT PROUD MEMBER OF:

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PROTECTING YOUR ESTATE AND INVESTMENT FUNDAMENTALS LUNCH & LEARN *Lunch to be served following event.

T

hrough the creation of a customized Trust plan, you can preserve your wealth and shelter your estate for generations to come. You can reduce estate taxes by crafting strategies aimed at preserving your principal today while protecting beneficiaries down the road. In addition we are about to embark upon a new environment with possible rising interest rates and new presidential administration. Do not hesitate to RSVP today to find out how we can both mitigate the risks but also take advantage of the opportunities on the horizon.

ALSO TO BE DISCUSSED:

AVOIDING PROBATE // HOW SHOULD I TITLE MY ACCOUNTS? // INVESTMENT BASICS 101 // INTEREST RATE RISK // PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION IMPACT ON ECONOMY

PRESENTERS

GEORGE MATHIS

First Vice President, Investments

AMY REED PITTMAN

JOHN IVORY

Attorney

Financial Advisor

January 26th, 2017

February 8, 2017

10:00-11:00 AM

10:00-11:00 AM

17135 Buena Vista Blvd, The Villages, FL 32162

1490 Killingsworth Way // The Villages

Please RSVP with Kitty Havlu at 352.674.1687 www.facebook.com/MathisWealthRJ

@mathiswealth_rj

www.raymondjames.com/mathiswealthrj

Amy Reed Pittman is not affiliated with Raymond James. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 2615 West Torch Lake Drive, The Villages, FL 32163 Changes in tax laws may occur at any time and could have a substantial impact upon each person’s situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of Raymond James & Associates we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters.

Lake County’s leading hospital for safety is now one of the Nation’s Top Hospitals.

Amazing.

From Straight A’s to Top Hospital. Florida Hospital Waterman has been named a 2016 Top General Hospital by the Leapfrog Group. A designation that places us among the top 3% of hospitals nationally, and the only hospital in Central Florida to be named a Top General Hospital and achieve straight A’s for safety since 2013. We’re committed to delivering quality, compassionate care in an environment focused on safety and improving the health and well-being of Lake County residents.

Visit FHWaterman.com

BUSINESS TECHS “Where Quality Service is Still Important!”

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— Danny Graham

Director of Technology Support 352-750-1515 www.TheVillagesTSG.com

Full Color Imaging Solutions Starting at $49 a Month

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Locally Owned and Operated

What does The Lake Sumter Group at Morgan Stanley do?

We proactively serve a select group of families with the distribution phase of their retirement by offering rigorous, relentless discipline seeking to bring a higher level of predictability.

How does your group achieve that?

With financial planning tools and discretionary portfolio management, we build plans based on our client’s risk tolerance. As portfolio managers, we manage our clients’ portfolios on a daily basis and guide their objectives, which range from developing a health care strategy to attending to estate planning needs.

How do you help your clients achieve their objectives?

Focusing our attention on our clients’ financial details means working toward their goal of living the lifestyle they have always envisioned. Having the resources in place to enjoy the next stage of their lives is important in achieving those goals. Perhaps they want to master a new language or travel to see family.

Moving financial worry away from the front of their minds can put big concerns to rest.

What specific strategies do you offer your clients?

Our focus is on financial planning which includes retirement planning, retirement income planning, estate planning strategies, college education planning, custom portfolio management, long term care planning and life insurance planning.

Gregory Prevatt, CLTC, CFP® Senior Vice President Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor gregory.prevatt@morganstanley.com

Michael Monteith Nicole Silberstein Client Service Associate nicole.silberstein@morganstanley.com

Financial Planning Specialist Portfolio Manager Financial Advisor michael.monteith@morganstanley.com

The Lake Sumter Group at Morgan Stanley

What makes your group passionate about what you do?

Our clients have spent their working years building a legacy. We enjoy helping them build the next phase of their lives. Having an advisor who can walk that path with them can mean the difference between living, and enjoying, their retirement.

832 Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages, FL 352.751.7845 • Toll free 800.447.6036 morganstanleyfa.com/LakeSumter Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers insurance products in conjunction with its licensed insurance agency affiliates. This material is intended only for clients and prospective clients of the Portfolio Management program. It has been prepared solely for informational purposes only and is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell any security or other financial instrument, or to participate in any trading strategy. The individuals mentioned as the Portfolio Management Team are Financial Advisors with Morgan Stanley participating in the Morgan Stanley Portfolio Management program. The Portfolio Management program is an investment advisory program in which the client’s Financial Advisor invests the client’s assets on a discretionary basis in a range of securities. The Portfolio Management program is described in the applicable Morgan Stanley ADV Part 2, available at www.morganstanley.com/ ADV or from your Financial Advisor. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee. 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. © 2016. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. CRC1651264 11/16

We are delighted with the swimming pool, spa, and waterfall Wiseman Pools installed for us. The overall service and craftsmanship from Wiseman is outstanding. We wouldn’t hesitate to use them again should the need ever arise.

— GRAHAM CAMPBELL

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DI NI NG GUI DE

83 Around the Table

An incredible recipe, prepared with an amazing gadget.

SEE STORY on PG 86

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e QUICK BITES

TAVA R E S

Lunch in a hurry

Modern Mosaic tables and a dome brick oven greet hungry diners at the new Lago Dora Restaurant in the heart of downtown Tavares. The food, prepared by chef and owner Deshaun Scott, is even more impressive.

The lunch menu is extensive, offering fresh meals such as spaghetti and mouth-watering meatballs, Chicken Alfredo, and specials like Penne Chicken Florentine Pasta, and Baked Rigatoni Bolognaise.

The restaurant aims to get diners served and on their way in 45 minutes, for courthouse employees and others who need to get back to work. It’s at 134 E. Ruby Street in Tavares.

A Toast to the Mighty Grapefruit (Makes 1 serving)

January is a great month for Florida grapefruit. If you’d like to celebrate with a delightful drink, try the Floridian Grapefruit Greyhound Drink. It’s a refreshing burst of citrus with a nice little kick!

CLERMONT

New flavors and foods

Guru Restaurant, located in the Clermont Hillside Terrace, offers Indian fare known for its chefs’ creative combinations of spices and sauces and delectable clay oven-baked breads. Six varied breads are baked daily, from Naan—a light bread made from refined flour—to Naan stuffed with either raisins and almonds, called Peshawari Naan, or Kheema Naan, which is the Naan stuffed with minced lamb.

Guru Restaurant located at 2400 S US 27, Suite 101, is open Monday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

INGREDIENTS:

¾ ounce Florida pink grapefruit juice 1½ ounce orange-flavored vodka ½ ounce Cointreau (or other triple sec) ½ ounce cranberry juice ¼ ounce Simple syrup Garnish Florida orange peel twist Fresh cranberries Mint sprig

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Playoffs calls for snacks

Weekends in January calls for chips, nachos, wings, pizza, and other snack foods and drinks to watch the NFL Football playoffs, which all begin with the wild card games Jan. 7-8, divisional rounds, Jan. 14-15, and the NFC and AFC Championship games on Jan. 22. Of course more of your food favorites are on call for the biggest game of all—Super Bowl at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5!

Most everyone loves the easy Ro*Tel® Famous Queso Dip that is just one 10-ounce can of Ro*Tel® Original Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained and one 16-ounce package of Velveeta® cut into ½-inch cubes. Combine ingredients in a medium saucepan and heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

L AKE COUNT Y FAIRGROUNDS

In the market for fresh food

More than 1,000 people flock to the Farmer’s Market at Lake County Fairgrounds, 2101 County Road 452, Eustis, on Thursdays where 200-plus vendors showcase their produce, foods, and crafts from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The farmer’s market has been a popular Thursday attraction since 1979, and the only times it is closed is during the Lake County Fair in April and Thanksgiving Day.

COCOA BEACH

Chart a course for a great pie If you’re looking for a fun day trip that includes something delicious, try the fifth annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival. You can eat it in a cup, in a coconut, by the slice, and enjoy the entire pie. There’s lots of fun to fill your day including the Miss Florida Key Lime Pie contest, a pie-eating contest, trying the key lime pie flavored martini and participating in the margarita challenge. There will also be vendors on hand along with live music as well as entertainment at the marketplace and promenade. Check Groupon for great deals on admissions.

All this happens at Alan Shepard Park in Cocoa Beach. Check the Florida Key Lime Pie Festival Facebook page for details.

MOUNT DORA

Mad about Maggie’s Wine tasting with more than 20 different wines will be featured 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 7 and 21, while a craft beer tasting event is slated during the same hours on Jan. 14 at Maggie’s Attic, 237 West 4th Ave., Mount Dora. Guests of the wine tasting also enjoy light appetizers and live entertainment that’s often performed by area musicians.

U M AT I L L A

Chomp, chomp The Gator Grill is a great restaurant in Umatilla and is a favorite among the locals.

Owned by Dave Luke and Randy Connor, the Gator Grill went through some significant renovations and upgrades to the building. But one thing didn’t change—it’s a great place to meet friends and enjoy a good meal together. Start with Cajun Gator, battered and fried and served with honey mustard dip. Ever had Wild Hog Wings? You can get ‘em here!

And the dessert of the week is always a great surprise!

Go by 9 N. Central Avenue in Umatilla.

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What’s cooking?

The Instant Pot! Maybe it’s just me, but does time fly by faster now than ever before? I can’t believe it’s January! Maybe it’s because we are so busy being busy that time just disappears. When thinking about the New Year and new gadgets in the kitchen, I asked myself: What am I looking for in a new kitchen toy?

STORY: JESSICA FLINN // PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

T

he answer was simple.

It should save me time.

Because truly, at the end of the day, isn’t time the one thing we always want more of? Well, that and money, but I digress.

Have you heard about the Instant Pot? You may have gotten one for Christmas—and what a Christmas present it is!

The Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker, rice cooker, stockpot, and sauté pan all in one. Before I sound like an infomercial for Instant Pot, I must say I bought this due to peer pressure. Many of my friends, both chef and nonchef, had purchased one. So naturally, I had to give it a go.

I have a natural hesitation about pressure cookers—that pressure release valve is terrifying! This fun gadget takes the danger out of

pressure-cooking. Pressure cookers work by trapping steam in a sealed pot that creates enough pressure to break down and infuse food much faster than boiling or other traditional cooking methods. There are many electric pressure cookers on the market now, so the recipe and methods I share in this article also may be utilized with them.

I have a firm belief that unitasking gadgets are a no-no in my kitchen and a waste of space. Seriously, we need a gadget to slice an avocado now? A paring knife and teaspoon can do the trick and save me that money! But having a gadget that multi-tasks appeals to me. Why have a slow cooker, a rice cooker, and a pressure cooker taking up space in my

cabinets, when I can have one piece of equipment that does the job?

Fun fact about this Instant Pot—sometimes it’s not always faster than traditional cooking methods, but perhaps makes them easier. For example, I can make boiled eggs in my Instant Pot in five minutes. Now granted, it takes five minutes to get to pressure and then five minutes to steam, which means it takes about the same amount of time that boiling eggs in a traditional manner would. BUT! Do you hate fighting to peel boiled eggs?

It’s the worst! Turns out, steaming eggs, makes their shell come right off. It’s very appealing. Get it? A-peel-ing?

Ba-dum-tssss!

Let’s talk rice. I think people believe it’s a faux pas

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I have a firm belief that unitasking gadgets are a no-no in my kitchen and a waste of space.

Seriously, we need a gadget to slice an avocado now?

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to use a rice cooker. Take a look next time you’re in your favorite Asian restaurant. I bet your bill they are using rice cookers in their kitchen.

Because rice cookers are awesome! When you follow directions properly, they make perfectly fluffy rice, and then keep the rice nice and warm while waiting to serve it. This is yet another reason I love my Instant Pot, the rice cooking setting! It takes about 10 minutes to cook most white rice and about 20-25 minutes to cook brown rice. That saves me some serious time!

We’ve talked about the convenience, we’ve talked about the time saving, but one last thing I love about this pressure cooker—it really does build unbelievable flavor in a short period of time. I’ve found, because of this, I love making soups in my Instant Pot. I can make a ham and 15-bean Soup in 45 minutes—from dried

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beans. This is compared to the typical overnight soaking and then two-hour cook time.

That’s incredible!

Another dish I’ve made that many of you may enjoy is that addictive sausage, kale, and potato soup from a well-known Italian restaurant chain (while you binge on unlimited breadsticks or maybe that’s just me).

Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup INGREDIENTS:

1

pound hot Italian sausage, casing removed

5

cups chicken stock (I prefer low sodium)

4

slices raw bacon, chopped

2

5

large potatoes, unpeeled and sliced ¼-inch thick

cups fresh kale, (sliced into ribbons)

1 ¼ cups heavy cream

1

onion, chopped

1

4

garlic cloves, minced

cup grated parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Select the sauté or browning function on your pressure cooker and allow it warm up, this takes only a minute or so. I want my bacon shatteringly crispy so I use the highest heat possible on the sauté function. Add the bacon to the pressure cooker cooking pot and cook until crisp. Remove bacon to paper towellined plate, this will be a garnish when it’s time to serve. Keep that delicious bacon grease in the pressure-cooking pot for flavor! Add your chopped onions to the pot and sauté two to three minutes. Next, add your hot Italian sausage, breaking up into pieces and sauté until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped garlic to the cooking pot during the last minute of sautéing onions and sausage. Now add chicken broth and potatoes. Lock on the Instant Pot lid and close the pressure valve to seal. All you do now is select the soup setting and set your timer for 8 minutes. This is when you grab a glass and wine and change into those jammies! After 8 minutes, release the pressure. I do a quick release because I’m impatient and by this point, probably hungry. You’ll want to add your fresh kale to the pot, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese at this time. Stir well, and the heat of the soup wilts the kale perfectly. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately. Just be sure to garnish with that bacon!

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The wine world’s Big Six Start with the basics when you want to learn about wine. A good place to begin is with the six grape varieties that are the foundation for many of the world’s best wines. This is the first of two articles about grapes that are the basis for many of the world’s best wines.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS, WSET

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Part Pa

of .

Be sure to check in next month for the second installment!

Next month, Part II of The Bix Six will cover the red grape varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. Get your wine glasses ready and taste along with us.

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alk into any wine shop or supermarket and you can’t miss the Big Six—the grapes that Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson calls the “power elite.” Although there are hundreds of grape varieties used in winemaking, these six—Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir—are the nobility in the wine world because of their reputations for making outstanding wines. This month, Salute looks at white grapes in Part I of the Big Six. Wine drinkers are usually divided into two camps: the white wine lovers and red wine enthusiasts—and rarely do the twain meet. It doesn’t matter if you are serving sirloin steak or lobster salad, some oenophiles just aren’t going to pour something different and that’s a shame.

As much as I love red varietals, I have discovered that white wine is the perfect complement to many foods, even some normally associated with red wines. I’ve also learned more about flavors in wine classes and tastings that focused on white wines. For instance, I had a very hard time distinguishing “acidity” in wines. Experts could talk about it all day, but I just couldn’t understand what I was looking for until I tried a Riesling from Alsace. And there it was: the acidity popped in my mouth!

The big three white grape varieties are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling.

These grapes are grown throughout the world, but climate makes them all different. In cool areas, like Germany and northern France, the wines are high in acidity, lower in alcohol, and often develop flavors of green apples and citrus. In warmer regions, like California, the wines often exhibit stone fruit or tropical flavors.

A great way to taste the difference among the white varietals is to sample them side-by-side. Have a light cheese and some bread or wine crackers so you can see how food changes the flavors. Serve white wines slightly chilled, but not too cold because that will mask the flavors.

Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Riesling

By far the most popular white wine and top-selling varietal, Chardonnay is the only choice for many wine drinkers. As soon as you pour a glass, you notice the yellow gold color and the rich scent.

It tends to be full bodied with a creamy or buttery texture.

Spice, vanilla, toast and oak flavors are often found in Chardonnays aged in oak barrels.

Sauvignon Blancs are often called “pool wines” in Florida because they are so refreshing and light. This varietal usually has strong aromas of citrus (grapefruit, lemon, and lime) and are almost always dry.

France’s Sancerre wines are also made from this grape variety, and they can have more herbaceous or “earthy” notes like cut grass or green bell peppers. It pairs well with many dishes, especially seafood and vegetarian menus.

An informative tasting would compare Sauvignon Blancs from different areas, like Washington State, California, France, and New Zealand.

The Riesling grape produces wines that range from very dry to very sweet.

The bottle’s back label may have the International Riesling Foundation’s scale indicating the level of sweetness. The growing regions also are a clue to the taste and style. German Rieslings tend to be sweet and light bodied; Austria and France’s Alsace Region offer the tangiest flavors and are among the most food friendly wines. A good Riesling is well balanced with the sweetness offset by high levels of acidity.

RECOMMENDED:

ALBRECHT TRADITION RIESLING, 2015, ALSACE, FRANCE: One of my favorite go-to Rieslings with spicy Asian food or pungent barbecue. It’s a classic and distinctive Riesling that is dry with a little citrus and spice flavors. The aroma is more minerally than fruity, but it’s a fun, smooth wine to drink at an affordable $19.

RECOMMENDED:

MINER FAMILY WINERY WILD YEAST CHARDONNAY, NAPA VALLEY: Miner is a family-owned winery that ferments grapes using only indigenous or “wild” yeast cultures found on the skins of the grapes themselves or in the vineyards. I liked the spiced apple flavors and the nice balance of oak and acidity in the 2012 vintage.

Winemaker Stacy Vogel uses a combination of Old World winemaking techniques and modern technology to make an elegant-tasting wine. (About $50 suggested retail).

STERLING CHARDONNAY NAPA: Sterling wines are easy to find and often a good value. A 2012 vintage was served during a wine certification class earlier this year as an example of a full body wine with lots of buttery flavors. If you are not a fan of oaky Chardonnays, this may not be among your favorites. But it if you do prefer strong oak flavors, you’ll be delighted at the approximate $13 price tag.

KIM CRAWFORD 2016 SAUVIGNON BLANC, MARLBOROUGH, NEW ZEALAND: This wine has been named among Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines four times. Marlborough is considered the benchmark when it comes to producing Sauvignon Blancs. It’s a bargain at about $18.

FRANCISCAN ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC, NAPA VALLEY: One of my favorite wines, the 2014 vintage offered a smooth taste that matched my Shrimp Alfredo. While other guests picked up grapefruit and lime flavors, I was reminded of ripe melons and honeysuckle. The 2015 vintage sells for about $17.

The Big Six Wine Grapes Light Body Style WHITE: Riesling RED: Pinot Noir Medium Body Style RED: Sauvignon Blanc RED: Merlot Full Body Style WHITE: Chardonnay RED: Cabernet Sauvignon Source: “Great Wines Made Simple,” by Andrea Immer, © 2000.

RECOMMENDED:

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

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SAIGON FUSION

Saigon meets Mount Dora STORY: DEBBI KIDDY // PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

M

ount Dora now has a great place to enjoy authentic Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine. Saigon Fusion, conveniently located at 16700 U.S. Highway 441, offers a variety of quality Asian dishes including pho, hibachi, and sushi. My daughter, grandson, and I decided to have dinner here after working up an appetite with a morning of shopping. We were not disappointed.

We arrived mid-lunch hour and were seated quickly with no waiting at one of the many tables beneath a beautiful chandelier. The décor is upscale and inviting. Upon entering, we were greeted warmly and provided menus from our server, Sandy. The menu is quite extensive, so we took a while deciding which dishes appealed to us. My daughter had the greatest difficulty, as she wanted sushi, and there were many delicious options.

We began our meal with Garlic Wings and Fried Gyoza. The appetizers came out soon after our order. The wings were seasoned with just the right amount of garlic, and we all agreed the pork dumplings (Gyoza) were tender and tasty.

My grandson, Kelly, is a picky eater, as are many children. He chose the noodles with a scrambled egg. He heartily scooped them up, enjoying every mouthful.

The sushi was fresh and delicious—the Mt. Fuji Roll and the Ninja Roll were great, and the salmon and tuna seasoned perfectly

and colorfully presented—just the way you want your sushi—accompanied by wasabi and soy sauce.

Of the many options on the lunch menu, I chose the Hibachi sirloin steak and shrimp combination, which included fried rice, noodles, mixed vegetable, onion soup, and salad with ginger dressing. My salad was served with the appetizers, giving me ample time to finish before the main meal arrived.

The full-flavored soup was excellent. Both dishes were small portions, and left room for the main meal. The rice and noodles were both tender and complemented the delicate shrimp and cooked-to-order sirloin steak.

If you are in the mood for great Asian food with reasonable prices and friendly and attentive service, visit Saigon Fusion-it is sure to please!

Saigon Fusion // 16700 U S 441, Mount Dora // 352. 800.4052

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5

Forks

(Out of a possible 5)

Cane Garden Country Club 1726 Bailey Trail, The Villages 352.750.0627 Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Breakfast: Monday to Saturday until 11 a.m., Sunday until 11:30 a.m.

CANE GARDEN COUNTRY CLUB

Better than sex country club fare

Fork Report: Casual dining // $$ Seated immediately (lunch hour) WAIT FOR MEAL: 15 minutes

STORY: DEBBI KIDDY // PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

I

f you are hungry (or thirsty) after 18 holes of golf or taking a break from the ample shopping in The Villages, there’s a great place to go. The Cane Garden Country Club scores a holein-one for a varied menu, quality food, and friendly, fast service!

Whether you sit on the sunny patio overlooking the golf course, or enjoy the tropical cane décor inside, one thing is certain—the menu options are numerous—salads, wraps, soups, burgers, pizzas, and entrees such as Rustic Baked Pasta or Pecan Tilapia.

My friend and I were warmly welcomed, and rather than wait for the coveted patio

seating on this gorgeous day, we chose a booth inside.

Our server answered questions about the menu and I chose the Chicken Marsala Sorrentino while my friend opted for the Ambrosia Chicken Salad Wrap.

My chicken dish was hot and delicious as we were served promptly. The chicken breast was tender and covered with a combination of the Marsala butter sauce, mushrooms, Romano cheese, garlic, basil, and fresh tomatoes that had my taste buds begging for more! Served with tender spaghetti and mixed vegetables, the dish was definitely a wise and flavorful choice.

My friend’s healthy chicken wrap was also a hit. The spinach tortilla was filled with diced chicken, mandarin oranges, pecans, craisins, coconut, spinach leaves, and tomatoes with a delicate raspberry dressing. The wrap was served with a mix of fresh strawberries, cantaloupe, and red grapes.

Though portions were ample, we decided to share a dessert. We enjoyed the decadent Choc’Late Lovin’ Spoon Cake—melt-in-yourmouth chocolate pudding between two layers of moist chocolate cake. Dining at Cane Garden Country Club for breakfast, lunch, or dinner is near to perfection!

OUT-OF-THEORDINARY STARTERS: ($6-$10.99) crab cakes, coconut shrimp, half pound boiled shrimp, crab and lobster smothered mushrooms, signature soups including lobster bisque.

ENTREES: ($7.29$19.99): Quiche, Pan Asian Coconut Shrimp Salad, Lobster BLT Croissant, Grecian Pizza, and weekly specials of Prime Rib, Lamb shank, Ribeye, Ham, and Roasted Turkey.

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.

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ONE FLIGHT UP CAFÉ

Taking food to new heights STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL // PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

O

ne Flight Up Café is a delightful eatery in downtown Mount Dora noted for its balcony patio as well as little indoor nooks and crannies with a coffeehouse feel.

It’s the ideal café spot to relax and enjoy people watching, especially when Mount Dora has its art and craft festivals that are fun to attend, and the café offers breakfast fare, sandwiches, salads, specialty soups, frozen drinks, espresso bar, wine, beer, and several wonderful desserts.

It has become one of my favorite places to take visiting guests for evening drinks and

desserts, and it’s also the “go-to place” when my daughters Julia of San Francisco, and Emily of Austin, Texas, come to Lake County, and that speaks well of the café since both are avid travelers who love dining at trendy places.

Among One Flight Up’s specialties of the house are a brie plate, cheese plate, black bean and queso dip, and quiche of the day. The delicious desserts range from its award-winning warm homemade bread pudding, chocolate fudge cake, carrot cake, blueberry cheesecake crumble, coconut cake, apple pie a la mode, lemon cake, and brownie sundae.

One Flight Up Café // 440 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora // 352.394.6911

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During a recent lunch outing, I enjoyed a Harvest Chicken Salad served as a wrap sandwich with tender chicken breast tossed with craisins, celery, and onions served with tortilla chips and a fresh houseblend tomato salsa.

My dining companion raved over a sandwich combo of lobster bisque soup with honey ham and Swiss cheese sandwich with lettuce and tomato, and of course we couldn’t resist ordering dessert and found the lemon cake and bread pudding to be heavenly.

One Flight Up is a Lake County gem that continues to win me over as a charming café.

HWY 441 / EUSTIS FL 32726 WWW.VGCHEVY.COM 352.343.2400

— -ED AND MARY JAVOR, LEESBURG

“The pricing was extraordinary. The dealership really did us right. The Vann Gannaway team works with you until everybody is satisfied.”

24 TAP ROOM THE ‘GO-TO’ PLACE FOR BREWS AND FOODS

The TV sitcom “Cheers” was a popular pub “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” and luckily that fun vibe is very much alive at 24 Tap Room, a new craft beer, and wine bar, at 1107 W. North Blvd., Suite 26 in Leesburg.

“Everybody that comes in says they absolutely love this place, and there is nothing like it around.

They’re happy that we are here,” says proprietor Alberto Cisneros.

“The best compliments have been on our beer selections and that our atmosphere is very cozy. All of the comments have been positive, so we are definitely doing something right!”

Along with serving the best locally brewed beer in the state and other brews from across the country to discerning beer lovers, 24 Tap Room also is the “go-to” place for a variety of delicious appetizers, including Sweet Potato Tots, Pulled Pork Sliders, Pub Pretzels, Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, Pork Shanks, Burger Sliders, and one

of Alberto’s favorites, the Black Bean and Chicken Nachos, featuring tortilla chips topped with grilled chicken, black beans, queso blanco, tomatoes, red onions and cilantro.

Of course it’s beer from Florida breweries that attracts locals and visitors.

At the time of the interview, fourteen of the 24 brews came from breweries in Boca Raton, Bradenton, Jacksonville, Ocala, Tampa, Winter Garden, and Boynton Beach. Among the most favorite of regulars are the beers from Swamp Head Brewery in Gainesville, and Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park.

The 24 Tap Room quickly became a popular hangout soon after

opening that Alberto provided a battery back-up system for customers to charge their cell phones. “We have people who want to stay here for four or five hours!”

Many of regulars love the weekly live entertainment, board games, darts, corn hole, and they enjoy watching football, and other sports on four 48-inch TV’s inside or on the outdoor patio. The room seats 36 people inside and more outdoors.

“Now that the weather has cooled down a bit, we definitely have a lot more people outside,” says Alberto.

He encourages people to “like” and follow 24 Tap Room on Facebook to be updated on upcoming events, such as visits from breweries with new

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

attractions and to give away free merchandise throughout the year.

Come check out 24 Tap Room during the hours 3 p.m.-12 a.m.

Monday to Thursday; 3 p.m.-1 a.m.

Friday; and 12 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday 12 p.m.-12 a.m. Sunday. To learn more, call 352.315.0198 or visit www.the24taproom.com.

237 West 4th Ave Suite 2 * Mount Dora, FL 32757 352-383-3600 * www.KaDeeKay.com Gift Cards Available

NORMAN S. NOVIS, M.D., P.A. Our patients’ care is our first priority.

Wishing you a happy and healthy new year!

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352-728-0777 or 800-275-5628 January 2017

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BBQ THAT STICKS TO YOUR RIBS

Tender meat, great sauce, and homemade desserts mean good eatin’.

Hungry for the best barbeque in all of Lake County? Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, succulent pulled pork and melt-in-your-mouth moist chicken describes the barbeque patrons find at Sully’s Smokehouse in Leesburg.

Raised in Lake County, Trent “Sully” Sullivan has been serving fresh, fantastic barbecue ribs, chicken, smoked sausage, and pulled pork for more than nine years. Currently located just off County Road 44, this family-owned business is well known for great barbeque and friendly, fast service at a reasonable price.

Sully’s is rated No. 7 out of 98 restaurants in Leesburg on Trip Advisor, and diners rave about the friendliness and service. One recent

reviewer, Sayler K., gave Sully’s high praise, “An excellent place to grab lunch or a take-out dinner! Pork sandwich is melt-in-your-mouth good especially with the mustard BBQ sauce. Chicken cannot be beat either!

Excellent staff, very friendly and attentive. Highly recommended!”

Additional outstanding reviews are available on Yelp.

Trent rises early in the morning to begin the natural smoking process on Black Jack oak, and after hours of low and slow barbeque, the scrumptious meats are ready. He uses three special homemade sauces to complement the meats: Southern Sweet, award-winning Spicy Red, and Hot Mustard Vinegar. You can also

purchase them to take home to enjoy!

Lunch customers often call in advance to order Sully’s Jumbo Pulled Pork Sandwich (enough for two) and choose from homemade sides of baked beans, pasta salad, collard greens, coleslaw, Brunswick stew, along with mayo red-skinned potato salad or mustard and relish potato salad to make sure the food doesn’t sell out, as it does sometimes. Be sure to take home an order of your family’s favorites for dinner to score big points with mama and the kids!

Now don’t forget dessert. Sully’s Smokehouse offers the perfect way to end your meal with a choice of decadent cakes: chocolate, carrot, or coconut.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

Want your next backyard bash, office party, or special event to be a smashing success? Sully’s Smokehouse will happily prepare meals for your next barbeque or catered event from as few as 20 people up to 500 people. Your guests will thank you! ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

SULLY’S SMOKEHOUSE

10820 County Road 44, Leesburg 352.483.RIBS (7427) Hours of operation: Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Serving the community for over 90 years.

Residential Lending Team Natasha Dykes, Amy Bolt and Margarita McCartney

Let us help you get the lowest rate on your home loan.

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UN GRAN LUGAR PARA COMER

La Palma Mexican Grill is “a great place to eat” and enjoy great food with family and friends!

Unique is what comes to mind when the family-owned and operated La Palma Mexican Grill is mentioned—for many reasons. First, owner Raudel Torres is a rare individual constantly working toward the future. When Raudel opened the restaurant at 1690 Citrus Blvd. in Leesburg three years ago, he heard several other businesses had been there and failed. Instead of worrying, Raudel immediately thought of his customers and determined how he could provide a fantastic eating experience that meant they would return again and again. He succeeded.

One way Raudel knew his customers would be delighted was by unique food.

The recipes used to create the delicious cuisine served at La Palma Mexican Grill are an exclusive blend of old-fashioned traditions originating from the families’ past generations in Zacatecas, Mexico, combined with culinary inspirations and trends from California and Louisiana learned along the way. Flavorful, homemade Mexican entrees such as Tacos Azteca, Carnitas, Fajitas, Tamales, and much more are timeless and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. Fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, and three-for-one margaritas all day every day add to customer satisfaction.

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III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

Beyond the quality food and reasonable prices, the environment is unique—diners have a variety of comfortable eating areas to choose from: inside around the inviting bar, ample booths and tables with a tropical view in the dining room, or outside on the new patio deck.

“Outside, customers can feel free to smoke and even bring their pets,” Raudel says.

Groups of 45 to 50 people can be accommodated in a private room with a smart TV. Catering is available for large parties or meetings. Daily specials are available on the website, www.lapalmagrill.com, and you can enjoy a Mariachi band the first and third Sunday of each month.

Always contemplating the next great idea, Raudel has more than 20 unique fruit trees and wants to share them with customers by building a winding path through the beautiful grounds. La Palma Mexican Grill is definitely an exotic and unique eating experience. ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

LA PALMA MEXICAN GRILL 1690 Citrus Blvd., Leesburg 352.323.1444 www.LaPalmaGrill.com

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e DINING GUIDE

Dining in your city Astatula

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

Beach Bums 12 S. Bay St. 352.308.8504 $

Legends Cafe 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441/27 Fruitland Park 352.728.0006

Flippers Pizzeria 2523 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.242.2214 $$

Dam Smoker Barbeque 36721 County Road 19A 352.357.6555 $$

Groveland

Bushnell

G’s NY Pizza 12346 Roper Blvd.

352.243.8900 $$$

Beef O’Bradys 2586 W. CR 48 352.568.7000 $

Green Garden 1790 E. Hwy. 50 352.243.2077 $$

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

Chuck’s Odd Cuples Café 117 W Belt Ave 352.568.0408 $

Legends Grille & Tavern 1700 Legendary Blvd.

352.242.1910 $$$

Coyote Rojo 2082 W. CR 48 352.569.0302 $$

Lyn’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe 824 W. Montrose St. 352.536.9935 $

Race Car Diner 25641 Monroe St. 352.253.6940 $

Astor Sparky’s Place 24646 State Road 40 352.759.3551 $$

Hong Kong Restaurants 2229 W CR 48 (352) 568-8888 $$ Howie’s Family Restaurant 840 N. Main St. 352.793.8582 $ Sonny’s Bar-B-Q 2684 W. CR 48 352.569.0200 $ TJ’s Family Restaurant 412 W. Belt Ave 352.793.8877 $$ Waffle House 2571 W CR 48 352.793.5656 $

Legend $: $5-14

Waller’s Restaurant 138 Bushnell Plaza 352.793.2592 $

$$: $15-24 $$$: $25-40

Clermont

$$$$: $40+

Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988 $$$

Kid’s Menu

Calabria Ristorante 13900 County Road 455 407.656.5144 $$

Beer, Wine or Cocktails

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Napolis Pizzeria 556 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.7500 $$ Robata Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688 $$ Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club Restaurant 2601 Diamond Club Dr. 352.243.0411 $$ Spiro’s Pizza 1203 W. Hwy. 50 352.394.5538 $$ Sugar Mama’s Bake Shoppe 648 Eighth St. 352.241.9738 $$ Troy’s Cuban & Deli 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.241.4295 $$

Eustis 1884 Restaurant & Bar 12 East Magnolia Ave. 1.800.856.1884 $$ Barnwood BBQ 50 W. Orange Ave. 352.630.4903 $$

$$ Red Wing Restaurant 12500 S. State Road 33 352.429.2997 $$$

Habaneros 3 Mexican Restaurant 10601 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.315.1777 $$ HP Grill 1403 S. 14th St. 352.314.0006 $

Howey-in-theHills

Kountry Kitchen 1008 W. Dixie Ave. 352.323.0852 $

King’s Taste Bar-B-Que 503 Palmetto St. 352.589.0404 $$

JB Boondocks Bar & Grill 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd.

352.324.3600 $$

La Palma Mexican Grill 1690 Citrus Blvd.

352.323.1444 $$

Maria’s Latin Dinner 1 N. Eustis St. 352.357.5555 $

Mission Inn Resort & Club’s El Conquistador 10400 County Rd. 48 352.324.3101 $$$$

Lilly’s Super Subs 2339 County Road 473 352.343.4663 $

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 $$ The Crazy Gator 402 N. Bay St. 352.589.5885 $$

Mission Inn Resort & Club’s Nickers 10400 County Rd. 48 352.324.3101 $$$$ Lady Lake Harbor Hills Country Club 6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000 $$$ Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 504 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.753.2722 $$ Athena New York 360 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 352.750.5227 $$

Leesburg

The Great Pizza Company 23 E. Magnolia Ave. 352.357.7377 $$

Bloom’s Baking House and Restaurant 610 W. Main St. 352.787.1004 $$

The Oyster Troff 936 N. Bay St. 352.357.9939 $$$

Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442 $

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

Fruitland Park Fruitland Park Café 3180 US Hwy. 441/27 352.435.4575 $

Cedar River Seafood 8609 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 352.728.3377 $$ Gator Bay Bar & Grill 10320 County Road 44 352.365.2177 $$

Magnolia’s Oyster Bar 201 W. Magnolia St. 352.323.0093 $$ Naples Italian Restaurant 1107 W. North Blvd.

352.323.1616 $$ Osaka 1401 Citrus Blvd.

352.728.0788 $$ Stavros Pizza 755 N. 14th St. 352.326.4202 $$ Takis Pizza Restaurant 1205 N. 14th St. 352.787.2344 $$ The Florida Porch Café 706 W. Main St. 352.365.1717 $$ The Latin Cafe 400 N. 14th St. 352.365.0089 $$ Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe 410 W Main St 352.435.9107 $$ Vic’s Catering 352.728.8989 $$$$

Mascotte Rainbow Restaurant 704 E. Myers Blvd.

352.429.2093 $$

Minneola Jack’s Barbecue 100 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.2673 $ Lil Anthony’s Pizza 205 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.394.1516 $$ Tiki Bar & Grill 508 S. Main Ave. 352.394.2232 $$

Mount Dora Anthony’s Pizza 17195 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.357.6668 $ Beauclaire Restaurant at Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. 352.383.4101 $$$ Blackbear Smokehouse 18750 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.383.2327 $$ Bocce Pizzeria 925 E. First Ave. 352.385.0067 $ Cecile’s French Corner 237 W. Fourth Ave. 352.383.7100 $$ Cody’s on 4th Cafe 111 E. 4th Ave. 352.735.8426 $ Copacabana Cuban Cafe 320 Dora Drawdy Way 352.385.9000 $$ Cupcake Delights 122 E. 4th Ave. 352.383.2200 $ Highland Street Café 185 S. Highland St. 352.383.1446 $ Incredible Edible Cakes 4295 W. Old Hwy. 441, Suite 2 352.223.3581 $

Ivory’s Take Out 1325 N. Grandview St. 352.735.6797 $

Zellie’s Pub 4025 N. U.S. Hwy. 19A 352.483.3855 $$

Sunrise Grill 462 E. Burleigh Blvd.

352.343.7744 $

Jeremiah’s 500 N. Highland St. 352.383.7444 $

Sorrento

The Hideaway 11912 Lane Park Rd. 352.343.3585 $$

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., Suite 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 Frog and Monkey Pub 411 N. Donnelly St. 352.383.1936 $$ The Goblin Market 331-B Donnely St. 352.735.0059 $$$ The Health Basket of Mount Dora 18834 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.735.1166 $$ The Windsor Rose English Tea Room 142 W. Fourth Ave. 352.735.2551 $$ Village Coffee Pot 425 Donnelly St. 352.383.3334 $

Del Franco Pizza Place 31436 County Rd. 437 352.383.8882 $ Gi Gi’s 25444 State Road 46 352.735.4000 $$

Summerfield Francesco’s Italian Ristorante and Stone Fire Pizza 16770 South U.S. Hwy. 441 352.693.2008 $$

Tavares Angelo’s Italian Restaurant 2270 Vindale Rd. 352.343.2757 $$ Buzzard Beach Grill 12423 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.5267 $$ Casa Mia Cafe 505 W Main St 352.742.9940 $ 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 $$ Ruby Street Grille 221 E. Ruby St. 352.742.7829 $$ Sinbad’s of Lake County 1050 W. Burleigh Blvd.

352.343.6669 $$

Zac’s Pressed for Time Cafe 505 W Main St. 352.253.4663 $

Umatilla Old Crow Real Pit Bar-B-Q 41100 State Road 19 352.669.3922 $ The Mason Jar 37534 State Rd. 19 352.589.2535 $$

The Villages Bob Evans 2199 Parr Dr. 352.259.1224 $ Bonefish Grill 3580 Wedgewood Ln. 352.674.9292 $$ Bonifay Country Club 1033 Pinellas Place 352.205.7455 $$ Cane Garden Country Club 1726 Bailey Trail 352.750.0627 $$ Carrabba’s 650 U.S. Hwy. 441 N 352.430.1304 $$ Chengs Chinese and Sushi Restaurant 4050 Wedgewood Ln. 352.391.9678 $$ China Gourmet III 343 Colony Blvd 352.750.4965 $ City Fire Brownwood & Paddock Square 352.561.2078 $$ Olive Garden 3680 Wedgewood Ln. 352.259.0304 $$

Evans Prairie Country Club 1825 Evans Prairie Trail 352.750.2225 $$

Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant 13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630 $$

Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill 297 Colony Blvd 352.751.0400 $$

TooJay’s 1129 Canal St. 352.430.0410 $

Hemingway’s at Havana 2484 Odell Circle 352.753.1475 $$$ Las Tapas - Brownwood Paddock Square 352.399.5516 $$ The Legacy Restaurant at the Nancy Lopez Country Club 17135 Buena Vista Blvd.

352.753.1475 $$$ The Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille 925 Lakeshore Dr. 352.753.7800 $$ Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant and Bar 320 Colony Blvd.

352.753.3824 $$ NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln 352.750.1994 $$ Outback Steakhouse 710 N. Hwy 441 352.430.2590 $$ Palmer Legends Country Club 1635 Palmer Way 352.391.9939 $$ RedSauce 1000 Canal St. 352.750.2930 $$ Sakura 265 Colony Blvd 352.205.7393 $$ Scooples 2718 Brownwood Blvd 352.750.6263 $

VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887 $$

Wildwood Aztec’s Mexican Restaurant 348 Shopping Center Dr. 352.748.2250 $ Beef O’ Bradys 840 S. Main St. 352.689.0048 $ Buddy’s BBQ 1210 N. Main St. 352.330.0338 $$ China Jade 420 W. CR 44 352.330.5913 $ Cotillion Southern Café 101 N. Main St. 352.748.1223 $$ O’Shucks! Oyster Bar and Grill 1016 S Main St. 352.399.2200 $$ Polly’s Pantry 819 S. Main St. 352.330.4002 $$ 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 $$

Square One Burgers & Bar 2542 Burnsed Blvd.

352.689.2191 $$

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e DINING GUIDE

1884 Restaurant and Bar 12 E. Magnolia Ave., Eustis // 1.800.856.1884 // 1884restaurantandbar.com Open 7 days a week: 11 a.m.–12 a.m.

Located in the historic Ferran’s building in downtown Eustis, 1884 Restaurant and Bar is a must for all to discover. The restaurant, which is open from 11 a.m. to Midnight seven days a week, has everything from Boar’s Head wraps and pressed sandwiches at lunch to hand-cut filets and the signature double-bone, two-inch thick pork chop at dinner. Sushi Bar seven days a week, lunch and dinner! With more than 10,000 square feet, 1884 can accommodate an intimate dinner for two to a private event in one of the three semi-private rooms. Diners can also enjoy the full-service bar while ordering custom craft cocktails and eight rotating beers on tap. “Wine Down Wednesday” features $4 house wines. By using the most local and fresh ingredients, the chefs and bartenders will amaze you with their talent. Dinner and daily specials begining at 5 p.m. with happy hour from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.. No doubt, there’s something for everyone at 1884. This restaurant has won in six categories for the 2016 Lake and Sumter Style’s Hot list: Best Server - Shelly Jaggers, Best Bartender - Chelsea Harkness, Best Cocktail, Best Dessert, Best Karaoke, and Best Girls Night Out. They were also named as Open Table’s Restaurant of the Month.

Call 1.800.856.1884 to reserve your table or book your party now. Lunch, dinner, live entertainment. 1884restaurantandbar.com to be the first to know of all specials, entertainers and events.

The 24 Tap Room 1107 W. North Blvd., Suite 26, Leesburg // 352.315.0198 Mon-Thu 3 p.m-12 a.m. // Fri 3 p.m-1 a.m. // Sat 12 p.m.-1 a.m. // Sun 12 p.m.- 12 a.m.

The 24 Tap Room is a fun and new craft beer and wine bar where you can enjoy 24 rotating taps, weekly live entertainment, trivia, board games, darts, and special nightly events. Visit on Sundays to watch NFL football on one of several 48-inch TV’s inside or on their outdoor patio. Proprietor Alberto Cisneros says, “We’re focused on bringing an ever-changing selection of some of the best locally-brewed beer in the state, as well as other great craft brews from across the country, to discerning beer lovers in Lake County.” A variety of appetizers will also soon be available, including Sweet Potato Tots, Pulled Pork Sliders, Pub Pretzels, Black Bean and Chicken Nachos and Grilled Chicken Quesadillas.

Buster Tubbs 110 N. New Hampshire Ave., Tavares // 352.742.7676 // bustertubbs.com Open 7 days a week at 7a.m. // Sat-Tue: open until 3p.m. // Wed-FrI: open until the music stops Voted the “Best Sports Bar” in the “2016 Hot List” of Lake and Sumter Style magazine’s August issue, Buster Tubbs is the “neighborhood watering hole” in Tavares with comfort foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a great happy hour.

It’s the go-to place to watch football, or enjoy karaoke Wednesday nights with Rudy and Belva on the new stage, music trivia Thursday nights, and live music on Friday nights. Buster Tubbs also has been generating raves from regulars for our delicious bayou barbecue, specialty coffees, Hazelnut Lattes, Peanut Butter Pie, amazing crab cakes, Buster Blue burger, Seaplane Fish, fried green tomatoes and so much more. Fans also rave about the atmosphere and friendly service. Come check out Buster Tubbs!

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Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant Open seven days a week: 11a.m.–9p.m. // Food, Spirits, Music, Sports 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441, Leesburg // 352.253.2442 // 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! They also have been voted BEST WINGS in Lake County every year since opening in 2009. Additional menu items offered are killer ½ lb. burgers, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheese steaks, healthy wheat wraps, fresh homemade salads, chicken strips that totally melt in your mouth, 16 awesome appetizers and their signature deep fried Ice Cream and Snickers Bars! Every Monday is “Texas Hold’em” from 6–10p.m. Tuesday night is “Family Night” from 4–8p.m. 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. Cousin Vinnie’s also offers, free Wi-Fi, great music and an enthusiastic staff, ready to exceed your expectations. Vinnie’s has been open eight years, if you have never been there… it is absolutely time for you to check it out!

The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge 331-B Donnelly Street (Rear Alley), Mount Dora // 352.735.0059 // GoblinMarketRestaurant.com Lunch: Tue–Sat 11a.m.–3:00p.m. // Dinner: Tue–Thu 5–9p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10p.m., Sun 11a.m.–3:30p.m.

Nestled on a back alley in downtown Mount Dora, the Goblin Market Restaurant has been charming locals and tourists alike since 1996. The restaurant, housed in a renovated warehouse, features three intimate, book-lined dining rooms and a full-service lounge furnished in soothing, muted tones with tasteful modern art. The private, tree-shaded courtyard and garden patio are open year-round for al fresco dining. Low lighting and “new age” music add the finishing touches to the restaurant’s casual elegance. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski embrace a simple philosophy of offering the highest-quality products, served in a unique and romantic atmosphere by a personable and attentive staff. The Goblin Market’s wine list and menu represent a refreshing mix of ideas from its culinary team. The diversified origins and background of each member ensure exciting menu offerings and nightly selections.

Join us for our new “lighter fare” dinner menu, gourmet soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Tuesday–Thursday from 3–9p.m. (regular dinner menu also available).

Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. MAGNOLIA ST., LEESBURG // 352.474.2739 MONDAY-THURSDAY 11 A.M.-10 P.M. // FRIDAY-SATURDAY 11 A.M.-12 A.M. // SUNDAY 12 P.M.-6 P.M. It’s a fun, friendly place to hang with friends and to meet new ones. Our Chicago/Firefighter themed Tap Room offers 6-8 of our own “session” beers featuring fresh Florida fruits and other local ingredients. Our beers are brewed on premise. We also offer (10) guest taps featuring beers from small craft breweries across the U.S. There is something for everyone. Our “Chicago” Style food menu features items like real Italian Beefs with Giardiniera peppers. Italian Sausage, the Maxwell Street Polish Sausage, Gyros, Pizza Puffs, Tamales and even the original Chicago Hot Dog “Run through the garden.” All your favorite footballs teams are playing on six (6) TVs with the NFL Package. Enjoy our spacious outdoor seating area with live music many weekends. We are located Historic Downtown Leesburg which offers a great shopping experience with specialty shops, antique stores, and a host of unique food and drink establishments. Every third Thursday, we partner with Gator Harley in Leesburg for our Bike Night; Live music, beer and food specials, BBQ, prizes and more, right here at the brewery! Cool Cars SPONSORED BY: JOIN US FOR Under the Stars event January 12th!

Find us online:

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e DINING GUIDE

La Palma 1690 Citrus Blvd., Leesburg // 352.323.1444 // LapalmaGrill.com Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm // Lunch Specials: 11:00am – 3:00pm Owner Raudel Torres invites you to a delicious dining experience at the La Palma Mexican Grill. The recipes used for these unique dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Mexico, combined with culinary inspirations and trends from California and Louisiana. Flavorful, homemade Mexican entrees such as Tacos Azteca, Carnitas, Fajitas, and Tamales and much more are timeless and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. Sit in the comfortable dining room or enjoy the outdoor view on the new patio deck. Fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, and three-for-one margaritas all day every day mean exceeding customer expectations. In addition to in-house service, catering is available for large parties, or meetings. Daily specials available on the website, lapalmagrill.com and you can enjoy a Mariachi band the first and third Sunday of each month.

Mason Jar 37534 State Road 19, Umatilla // 352.589.2535 Mon–Sat 6am-8pm // Sun 6am-2pm Established in 1979, The Mason Jar is well-known for southern style, downhome cooking; sparkling clean, casual dining room; family-friendly hospitality and reasonable prices. Located in Umatilla at 37534 State Road 19, and family-owned, the restaurant is a welcome sight for travelers and locals alike. Seven days a week patrons enjoy breakfasts of homemade grits, real fried potatoes, fluff y biscuits, country ham, and mile-high pancakes. If you are a late riser, you can still enjoy daily specials: Monday-Meatloaf; Tuesday-Beef Tips and Noodles; Wednesday-Liver and Onions; Thursday-Fried Chicken; Friday-All you can eat Fish Fry; Saturday-Fried Chicken Livers and Sunday-Award-winning, all-you-can-eat Fried Chicken. Other favorites include various beans (pintos, lima, northern) with rice, served with onion slices and corn muffins, homemade soups, fresh vegetables for sides, and of course, the meal wouldn’t be complete without a glass of southern sweet tea!

Awards: Orlando Sentinel’s Best Fried Chicken in Lake County (March, 2015) Orlando Sentinel’s Best Breakfast in Lake County (March, 2015)

Mom & Dads 304 U.S. Hwy. 441, Lady Lake // 352.753.2722 Tue-Sat 4pm–9pm // Closed Sun & Mon This little place in the heart of Lady Lake is a local favorite. All the food at Mom & Dad’s is authentic and homemade, from the famous sauce to pastas to the incredible desserts. Made from scratch in-house ravioli and lasagna. Many diners automatically order Spaghetti al la Bruzzi, which is the house specialty. This baked spaghetti has a meat sauce, mushrooms, and three cheeses. Add to that the homemade bread Papa prepares every day, and you’ve got a memorable meal. You can’t stop with the entrée, however. Mama’s homemade cakes are amazing! Moist and delicious German Chocolate, creamy, luxurious Red Velvet, Cannoli, and who doesn’t love Spumoni. If you’re looking for a great Italian dinner that will remind you of home and all the goodness of eating there, try Mom & Dad’s.

Mom & Dad’s also offers a full gluten free menu featuring pizza, lasagna, ravioli, and desserts all made in-house from scratch.

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e DINING GUIDE

Momiji Japanese Sushi and Grill 24400 State Road 44, Sorrento // 352.357.2285 LUNCH: Mon-Fri 11am-3pm // DINNER: Mon-Thu 3-10pm, Fri 3-11pm, Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-10pm Momiji Japanese Sushi and Grill offers a fine dining experience with a wide array of delicious Japanese fare, including 25 different hibachi dishes on the dinner menu (10 at lunch) and nearly 30 different varieties of chef’s special roll and a sushi bar that sushi lovers are bound to love. Among diners’ favorites are the Momiji Roll of lobster tempera, spicy tuna in soy wrap, topped with spicy king crab, mango, Momiji sauce and mango sauce, and the Sushi and Sashimi Combo with four pieces of sushi and nine pieces of sashimi and spicy tuna roll. Traditional dishes of soup and salad are available, along with starter from kitchen, starter from sushi bar, a la carte, entrée from sushi bar, rolls or hand rolls. Momiji notes its goal is to provide an unforgettable dining experience for all patrons.

Puddle Jumpers 111 W. Ruby St., Tavares // 352.508.5862 // PuddleJumpersLakeside.com Mon-Thu 11am-10pm // Fri-Sat 11am-12am // Sun 11am-8pm Casual lakeside dining at its finest is what patrons experience at Puddle Jumpers overlooking Lake Dora in Tavares. The restaurant is a local favorite and has generated raves of being a great place for good fun with friends and private events.

Come check out the offerings of delicious food and drinks from a fully stocked bar, including a wide array of fresh seafood specialties, appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, homemade soups, steaks and ribs from the grill. Puddle Jumpers is also the “go-to” place to enjoy live music and entertainment on most weekends. If you’ve never been to Puddle Jumpers, it’s absolutely time to take the plunge!

Sully’s Smokehouse 10820 County Road 44, Leesburg // 352.483.RIBS (7427) Wed-Fri 11am–8pm // Saturday 11am-6pm If you’re really hungry, you may want to try the Jumbo Pulled Pork Sandwich at Sully’s Smokehouse. It’s so big you can share it. Sully’s, which is rated No. 7 out of 97 restaurants in Leesburg on Trip Advisor, also prepared meals for catering events from 20 people to 500 people. Customers pick up their orders. Meals include ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and smoked sausage with sides of homemade Brunswick stew, cole slaw, baked beans, and collard greens, along with pasta salad, mustard potato salad, and mayo red-skinned potato salad. This family-run business has been around for nine years.

For information or to order catering, call the restaurant at 352.483.RIBS (7427) or call owner Trent Sullivan’s cell phone at 352.267.4861.

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A r o u n d T h e Ta b l e DINING GUIDE

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208 W. Guava St. // 352.750.4929 469 Plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 18870 U.S. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 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 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 480 W. Gulf to Alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800

Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill 118 Ruby St., Tavares // 352.508.5783 Sun-Thu 11am-10pm // Fri-Sat 11am-11pm Daily specials draw large groups to Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill. Diners are thrilled the upbeat, colorful Tavares restaurant overlooking Lake Dora has expanded its outdoor dining area with live music on the patio. Diners also love the “all-you can eat” crab legs (available with fries and coleslaw or rice and beans) for $39.99; peel-and-eat-shrimp—hot, cold, or fried—for $24.99; boiled crawfish for $20.99; fried Mahi Mahi fish, $16.99; or fried clams, $15.99. Among the lunch specials are $1 off sandwiches, burgers, tacos, and oysters, and $2 off half pound of peel-and-eat shrimp. There are discounted oyster buckets and $10 buckets of domestic beer on Sundays that draw football fans to watch their favorite teams on more than 10 flat-screen TVs. Happy Hour is all day, every day!

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

Call us at 352.787.4112

LAKE & SUMTER

“Easy and stress free...

Thanks Mike!”

Lena Williams 352-636-4488

“We can’t say enough about the exceptional level of service Lauren provided, it was definitely second to none.

We would recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell”

—The Spittle Family

“Lena always meets our expectations. If we ever need anything with real estate we will use her!”

— Keri Sredl

“We really appreciated Scott’s positive attitude and his level of communication during our sale.”

Mike Barrett 352-255-5710

— John & Cyndi Cummings

“Valerie’s years of experience are evident in her professionalism, knowledge of the market and attention to detail. Her communication skills and complete honesty are remarkable. She is an A1 service provider.”

— Joan Whitten

Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492

— Lynn Weber

Scott Strem 352-978-3428

Jo Leen Cooper 352-267-0770

“We really enjoyed Jo Leen’s upbeat attitude.”

— Ed and Hilda Storey

Lauren Fickett 352-6362167

Theresa Morris 352-360-3736

“Theresa did an amazing job, she went above and beyond expectations” — Janice Cook

we’ve got the area’s top realtors... but don’t just take our word for it.

“My aunt interviewed a few agents and found Lynn Haynes to be the best!”

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Lynn Haynes 352.516.0903

Joan De Foe 352-516-6843

“Greg found the place for us. We appreciate him, his professionalism and his personality” — Pat Lee

Greg Boliek

“Camie sold my home in less than two months, what more could I ask for.”

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“Joanie is great, friendly, thorough, and goes beyond the call of duty.“ — Gene and Connie Wilson

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“Kim is Awesome! She remained committed and aggressively got the job done. House is sold!”

— Mike and Mary Pat Godigkeit

Kim Ducharme 352-874-5906

“Linda understood quickly what I was looking for and found our perfect home... she was a pleasure to work with... Linda also listed our previous home and sold it within two weeks” — Susan & Bill Fuller

Linda Marsh 352-978-3016

352-435-HOME (4663)

JUMP FOR JOY

Outstanding food, friendly service, and beautiful scenery await diners at this lakeside restaurant.

A seaplane soars overhead and lands gracefully on the lake.

The sun’s rays beam down on the rippled Lake Dora water. The pleasing music of an acoustic bands is heard in the background.

Diners enjoy these fabulous sights and sounds along with dinner at Puddle Jumpers located in downtown Tavares. A trip to this popular and vibrant restaurant will ignite your senses and ensure your meal is a true experience.

Longtime restaurateur Jon Aramino opened Puddle Jumpers in September 2015. Since then, the restaurant has become well known for its creative food, stellar service, and inviting atmosphere.

The two-story facility features a large and spacious upstairs banquet room with warm, rich colors and glass windows overlooking the beautiful lake. It’s a perfect venue for birthday

parties, Christmas parties, weddings, and rehearsal dinners. The 40-seat veranda is the perfect place to dine alfresco. Soft lake breezes stir the air, and there’s always something exciting or entertaining happening on or around the lake.

All this creates the perfect stage for Aramino’s superb menu, which is innovative, fresh, and unique in Lake County. Our delicious Seafood Medley Pasta won the coveted 2016 Judges and People choice award for Best Entrée at 2016 Taste of Tavares.

The crowning touch to this great dish is Mahi, shrimp, and a snow crab cocktail claw. Some of our adventurous dishes include the deep-fried peanut butter and jelly burger, which is topped with chipotle black raspberry jelly.

Get a taste of the islands with the Hawaiian Burger covered in

pineapple and teriyaki sauce.

You like wings? Aramino makes our amazing wings using the same recipe that won first place at a 2010 wing competition in Buffalo, New York.

Other popular items include beer cheese queso and ribs coated in sweet chili barbecue sauce.

“My goal was to create a menu with food items everyone was familiar with but add small twists to them,” Aramino says. “There are too many chain restaurants around where nothing is homemade. We hand batter everything and even make our own sauces.”

For Aramino, opening a restaurant is a point of pride. His many years in the business include a stint with Disney World as a banquet and catering manager and as a corporate trainer with Chili’s Grill and Bar. However, the 1995 Tavares High School graduate was proud to

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return to his hometown and offer up a fun-filled and delicious dining experience for the community.

“It’s a great feeling to see friends I grew up with come here to eat,” he said. “I also get to employ people and help the local economy.

Owning your own business is challenging but also lots of fun.”

Puddle Jumpers now offers diehard football fans a place to enjoy NFL Sunday Ticket and great food and drinks. Music fans will find the weekends are great with local live band, Juicy Grooves, and The Band 4Play. Whenever you come to Puddle Jumpers, it’s a good time. ________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION

PUDDLE JUMPERS

111 W. Ruby St. Tavares 352.508.5862 puddlejumperslakeside.com.

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BEAUTIFUL 2 BEDROOM 2 BATH IN APOPKA! This beautiful home has wrap around corner kitchen with storage and cabinets galore. Home boasts laminate flooring throughout, built in features, inside utility, large screen room and attached shed. Home is located near shopping, dining and dancing. You will enjoy the views of nature preserve too. Do not miss this one. Make it yours today.

LB8027. Palm Isle. $37,900

“Dee was always there, patient, and helpful. We came into town, bought a home, and closed in less than 1 week!”

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Top of the line 2009 Palm Harbor home with everything you could ask for.

Split 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Large Master Suite with walk in closet and sitting area. Master Bathroom has double sink vanity and custom built cabinets. Large kitchen with island for plenty of room to cook, beautiful cabinetry and tile flooring. Home features drywall, tap and texture wall and crown molding. Inside laundry room. Screen Lanai to enjoy your morning coffee. Shed and much more.

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“Tony was great! Very much appreciated his assistance with every step of the process.”

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SPACIOUS PERFECT HOME IN A WARM AND WELCOMING COMMUNITY Do not pass up this 2004 3 bedroom 2 bath home that is priced to sell.

The home comes partially furnished with the master bedroom set and eat in kitchen dinette set. There is 1196 square feet of living space and a screened in lanai for you to enjoy the Florida weather. This home is complete with an indoor laundry and a storage shed at the end of a spacious carport. This home is a must see and will not last long.

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Widowhood calls for embracing a ‘new normal’ STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

A

new year can be exciting, yet for widows like me, it’s the start of another year filled with an unexplainable feeling that’s hard to put into words.

“We are dealing with an emptiness that we never could have planned for. We don’t have what we thought we might have for the rest of our lives,” says my friend Cindy Brewer.

THERESA AND MEMORIES OF HER LATE HUSBAND, TIM

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She’s right. We both assumed we’d live the golden years with the men we loved.

This month would have been the 25th wedding anniversary for my sweetie and me. Tim talked of going to Hawaii to celebrate; yet neither of us expected pneumonia to claim his life in 2015. I threw myself into my work after his death, found support through GriefShare offered at First Baptist Church in Leesburg, where I learned I needed to embrace a “new normal.”

Traveling and time with family and friends has been very rewarding, yet there are a few moments when I have felt alone in a crowd. Several Facebook friends echoed they understood.

“Don’t know that this feeling ever goes way...I wish there was an easy answer for this,” says Doug Green, a widower of five years.

Rhonda Murray-Carpenter lost her love and soul mate two years ago. She says the grief was understandable.

“After all, you just lost half of your heart…You just learn through faith, prayers, friends, and family to move forward the best you can.”

“Learning to live alone and being comfortable with myself was a challenge I faced in China,” adds Marc Slayton.

“I was no longer ‘defined’ or

‘labeled’ by my significant other. I learned to love myself as I was. I found peace within my soul during that period. I had the time to become quite introspective of what and who I really was. While we were not meant to live alone, many do not find the real self that only solitude can provide.

When I learned to love and accept myself as I was, I became a better person.”

Widowed for 12 years, Brenda Raney notes, “You never forget or stop missing what once was your life—finding new life and meaning is through the next open door.”

Vanessa Goodknight makes an effort to stay positive and prays for guidance; Cynthia McCorkle advises to smile even if a little tear comes through.

Adrienne Wilhelm lost her husband more than 11 years ago when she had one semester left of nursing school. Her son was 25 and daughter 11 at the time. “My world stopped but my children’s did not so I had to face each day for them,” she says. “Over time you realize you are resilient and stronger than you ever thought you could be.”

“Everybody says it will get better, and it does,” adds Donna Erickson, “but you never forget what you had.”

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Gregg Collier, Sr., CFP®, AIF®, AEP® Investment Management Consultant P: 352.385.0073 F: 352.385.0075 Visit us at www.cfsrj.com 2025 W. Old US HWY 441 Mount Dora, FL 32757 Gregory.Collier@raymondjames.com www.cfsrj.com

Gregory C. Collier, Sr., CFP®, AIF®, AEP®

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Securities are not deposits, not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency, not guaranteed by the institution, and are subject to risk and may lose value. Collier Financial Solutions is independent of Raymond James. Raymond James is not affi liated with any of the organizations named. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™ and CFP® in the U.S.

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