Style Magazine, February 2016

Including

TOP PRODUCERS

REALTORS WHO BRING HOME THE BACON

CONTRACTOR CHOICES

SELECTING THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR JOB

KEVCO MAKES DREAM HOMES A REALITY

February

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

2016

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

ENT RESI D LER, P ILDERS I Z E O J BU KE V C O

LOOK FOR OUR CUSTOM HOM

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When: Mondays, Feb. 8 - Mar. 7 5 – 7 p. m.

Cost: $35 (includes all classes and materials)

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cont February

201 6 // VO LU M E 1 2 N UMB E R 4

Featuring 30 TOP OF THE CLASS Colleen Donlevy-Burns can’t leap a house in a single bound, but she is REALTOR® OF THE YEAR in Lake County. STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS

36 TOP PRODUCERS If you’re looking to buy or sell a home, here’s the place to find the best sellers of Lake and Sumter County. These Realtors always travel the road to success.

52 BREAKING GROUND The growth and development of Lake and Sumter counties continues, and here are some great places to look for that new home! STORY: MICHELLE CLARK+SHEMIR WILES

70 BUILDING THE DREAM Don’t let the construction of your dream home become nightmare. Finding the right contractors and settling in this area is as easy as looking in the right place! STORY: LEIGH NEELY SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

43 TOP REALTORS Meet the real estate professionals throughout Lake and Sumter counties who possess the necessary qualities, skills, and passion to be ultra-successful in their industry.

On the covers Including

Including

TOP PRODUCERS

TOP PRODUCERS

REALTORS WHO BRING HOME THE BACON

REALTORS WHO BRING HOME THE BACON

CONTRACTOR CHOICES

February

KEVCO MAKES DREAM HOMES A REALITY

CONTRACTOR CHOICES

February

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

2016

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

2016

SELECTING THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR JOB

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR JOB

DISCOVER SC CODDIFDIFFERENCE VFERE THE KEVCO VCCO DI IFFE KEVCO BUILDERS’ JOE ZILER SHOWCASES HIS CUSTOM HOMES AT THE 2016 PARADE OF HOMES * SEE OUR GATEFOLD INSIDE *

LAKE&SUMTER EDITION

VILLAGE EDITION

MODEL: COLLEEN DONLEVY-BURNS DIRECTION: JAMIE EZRA MARK PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

MODEL: JOE ZILER OF KEVCO BUILDERS DIRECTION: JAMIE EZRA MARK PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

February Feb ebrua ebrua eb rua ru uary ry 20 16

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ents Departments 17 FROM THE PUBLISHER

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FIRST THINGS FIRST 20 #TRENDING A new senior center, touch ups for Venetian Gardens and Ferran Park, and a ride on the “Woof” Bus are in the news!

78

24 PERSON OF INTEREST She has a unique vision for housing growth in Lake and Sumter counties so Lisa Templin-Rayborn is settling in nicely as the new executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter.

20 26 OUTSTANDING STUDENT Nott only is he a cool guy, James Jam mes Fuhrman can keep your you ur house cool too! Meet an outstanding HVAC student from Lake Tech!

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77 ON THE SCENE

90 HI, SOCIETY!

111 78 THE TO-DO LIST No wicked stepsisters to keep you from the ball— The Leesburg Mardi Gras Crowning Event—then party hardy at Mardi Gras!

I’ll drink to that at the Lake Ridge Winefest XXVI, and revel in the music of Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra, plus many more activities.

84 LOCAL TALENT Lois Brandt Weber keeps the anc ancient art of quilling alive with her unique w jewelry, jewelry shadowboxes, and other artwork. a 84 SSOCIAL SPOTLIGHT Grab th the kids and head to Paquette’s Historical Paqu Farmall Farmal Museum for the 9th An Annual Tractor Show & Pull, featuring everything from a Neil Diamond Tribute to the—DUCK— Ladies Iron Skillet Toss!

86 OOUT+ABOUT It’s not too far away, and it’s always exciting—the alw International Speedway at Interna Daytona Beach!

Race over Dayton to see a an iconic NASCAR home!

EATS 114 IN THE KITCHEN It’s smooth, silky and when you walk in the door of Peterbrooke Chocolatier, the incredible aroma of chocolate will surround you.

See behind the scenes of this local candy store to find how they make the treats that will delight all your senses.

118 SALUTÉ There’s more than one fabulous holiday in February. If you don’t have Open That Bottle Night on your calendar, you make want to get a new calendar!

120 FORK ON THE ROAD Fine dining with a favorite golf pro at Nancy Lopez Legacy Golf & Country Club will delight, or watch seaplanes take off and land while your dig in to a bucket of shrimp or crab claws at Puddle Jumpers! ers!

136 FINAL THOUGHT HT Though it may be time, e, moving away from a hom home me you love is never easy.

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AN INSPIRED LIVING EXPERIENCE FROM

@your service PURSUIT OF HAPPINNESS

HOME THE

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PROMOTIONAL

BACON

KEVCO MAKES

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JOB

FEATURE

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BRING REALTORS WHO BACON HOME THE

CONTRACTOR CHOICES

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR JOB

2016

hot off the press!

WHO BRING

ICES CONTRACTOR CHO HOME NO PLACE LIKE

2016

REALTO RS

February

TOP PRODUCERS

Including

TOP PRODUCERS

February

Including

DTHEISKEVCCOODIIFFFFVFFEEERREENRCE SES HIS JOE ZILER SHOWCA HOMES KEVCO BUILDERS’ OF AT THE 2016 PARADE CUSTOM HOMESINSIDE * GATEFOLD * SEE OUR

The latest editions of Lake and Sumter Style, Villages Style, Healthy Living, Lake Business Magazine and Welcome to Lake County

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. For the best in enhanced magazine entertainment, join us online for the media experience of a lifetime.

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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 seasonADVERTISING // BRANDING // DESIGN MEDIA // INTERACTIVE // PUBLIC RELATIONS // PROMOTIONS // AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION

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al 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.

.com

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.

From the publisher

Kendra Akers PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF kendra@akersmediagroup.com

Doug Akers VICE PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

Jamie Ezra Mark CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER jamie@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

James Combs Steven J. Codraro STAFF WRITER CREATIVE DIRECTOR james@akersmediagroup.com steve@akersmediagroup.com

Leigh Neely Joe Deleon STAFF WRITER/COPY EDITOR SENIOR ART DIRECTOR leigh@akersmediagroup.com joe@akersmediagroup.com

Michelle Clark Josh Clark STAFF WRITER SENIOR DESIGNER michelle@akersmediagroup.com josh@akersmediagroup.com

Shemir Wiles Michael Gaulin STAFF WRITER PRODUCTION DIRECTOR shemir@akersmediagroup.com michael@akersmediagroup.com

Rheya Tanner Fred Lopez STAFF WRITER CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER rheya@akersmediagroup.com fred@akersmediagroup.com CONTRIBUTORS

Jarrod Clark Fred Hilton Mary Ann DeSantis Kathy Porter Tony DeSantis SALES // MARKETING

Tim McRae Mike Stegall VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING SENIOR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE tim@akersmediagroup.com mike@akersmediagroup.com

Heidi Ressler Lynne Kelley ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE heidi@akersmediagroup.com lynne@akersmediagroup.com

Melanie Melvin Aubrey Akers DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES ADVERTISING COORDINATOR melanie@akerscreative.com aubrey@akersmediagroup.com ADMINISTRATION

Deb Matlock OFFICE MANAGER deb@akersmediagroup.com DISTRIBUTION

Scott Hegg DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

LEESBURG PARTNERSHIP

LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

TAVARES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SOUTH LAKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WINNER OF

LAKE EUSTIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SUMTER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Recently I sat down with three very important individuals to discuss topics for this particular issue. I wanted to hear directly the opinions of area leaders regarding where Lake and Sumter counties are heading. I met with Robert Chandler, Lake County’s director of economic growth. Secondly, I met with Lisa Templin-Rayborn, our newly-appointed director at the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter. Thirdly, I met with Brenda Rodgers, CEO of the Lake-Sumter Real Estate Association.

Each conversation was overwhelmingly exciting. Things have changed in this community, and it is all for the better. I have always known Lake County wouldn’t remain a small sleepy community. But to see it beginning to flourish— and hear our leaders confirm it—well, I think that’s just cool.

It has been many years since we’ve seen dirt being moved around, new homes being built, and new businesses coming into Lake and Sumter, other than in The Villages, where they just always seem to be growing and flourishing. However, the remainder of the community, not so much—until now.

In this month’s issue, we highlight many of the new home communities currently in development. We’re also listing ng the area’s area s top real estate producers, featuring a special article on Realtor ealtor of the Year, Colleen Donlevy-Burns, and offering helpful tips on n what you need to know when building or remodeling your home.

We want to keep you up to date on what is happening here in this amazing community and celebrate rate its successes.

Lake and Sumter counties are on the verge of another boom, and while experts say it won’t be like ke it once was, improvement and growth are always a step p in the right direction.

You can find me on the sidelines cheering ng us on and shouting, “Way to grow!”

Sincerely,

LAKE & SUMTER STYLE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF

FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION

AND AWAY WE GROW

100+ AWARDS

AMERICAN ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style, February 2016. Published monthly by Akers Media, 108 South Fifth Street, Leesburg, Florida 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2016 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.

Publishe Kendra Akers, Publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com kendra@akersmediagrou

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First Things

f1rst #TRENDING PERSON OF INTEREST OUTSTANDING STUDENT

20 24

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JAMES FUHRMAN

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

A New Lease on

[Apartment] Life Cagan Crossings in Clermont holds the key to good resident service—literally. The 180-unit Glen 2 recently won the prestigious Golden Key Award for Best Lease Up Community of the Year from the Apartment Association of Greater Orlando. The association gives the award to companies and individuals who work to achieve the highest level of service and commitment in the industry. Winners in the past, Cagan Crossing obviously steps up to the challenge!

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DO YOU KNOW MISS KITTY?

Mutts Gone Nuts

E&M Theatrical brought a special show to the Clermont Performing Arts Center, “Mutts Gone Nuts.” Scott and Joan Houghton are the humans who help the hilarious pack of pooches give everyone a good time. A portion of ticket sales benefited the South Lake Animal League, which raised more than $2,000. The show may have gone to the dogs, but they weren’t barking for nothing!

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

If you spend any time in downtown Leesburg, you’re bound to run into some familiar faces that you may greet with a smile, a friendly handshake, or a scratch behind the ears. Therefore, you can’t make a trip downtown and not meet Miss Kitty, a very confident and graceful white, orange, and brown calico.

Miss Kitty spends most days wandering from shop to shop, lounging in display windows and perching on checkout counters. She’s become somewhat of a fixture on Main Street. Miss Kitty is well fed, groomed, and beloved by all the businesses.

So, who actually owns Miss Kitty? We at Akers like to think we all do, whether she has an owner or not. One thing for sure: she’s a real cosmopolitan cat!

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

BABETTE’S DOES IT BEST For years, Babette’s Furniture & Home has been celebrated locally for its commitment to excellence, but now the recognition has gone global.

The 27-year-old furniture store recently won Best of Customer Service on Houzz®, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. It was chosen by Houzz’s more than 35 million unique monthly users from among the more than 1 million active homebuilding, remodeling, and design industry professionals of the online community.

Customer service honors are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2015.

“At Babette’s Furniture, customer service is our No. 1 priority,” said Tim Cook, customer service manager. “We are here to take care of any issues customers may have with their merchandise. Our goal is to provide each customer with an incredible shopping experience and provide a level of service that will keep them coming back.”

“Anyone building, remodeling or decorating looks to Houzz for the most talented and serviceoriented professionals,” added Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing for Houzz.

“We’re so pleased to recognize Babette’s Furniture & Home, voted one of our Best of Houzz professionals by our enormous community of homeowners and design enthusiasts actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”

JAMES MES CO COMBS’

1 // DEPUTIES WITH THE TAVARES POLICE DEPARTMENT are now using golf carts to get around downtown. Will this new mode of transportation become par for the course?

2 // A LEESBURG MAN claiming to be a pastor swindled an 89-year-old man out of $25,000.

Should we call him an impostor or impastor?

3 // A MAJOR DRUG BUST in Lake County involving crystal meth

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recently landed 117 people in jail. Perhaps the Food Channel can feature them on a reality show titled “Baking Bad.”

4 // A LAKE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE PRISONER was caught with synthetic marijuana he reportedly obtained during visitation hours. We can only conclude that committing a crime in prison requires a “joint” effort.

5 // LAKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPUTIES recently charged

MAKING A SPLASH The splash pad craze has hit Lake County, and no one is complaining. After the success of Tavares’ seaplane-themed splash pad, which opened in 2009, cities all over Lake County have added similar features to their improvement projects.

With half the liabilities and maintenance work it would take to run a city pool, splash pads have a lasting benefit that make the fad worth the investment. In August, the Venetian Isles Apartments were demolished to make way for improvements, and in December, the city confirmed plans to bring a splash pad to Venetian Gardens.

All systems are go for project splash pad, strategically tucked in near Roger’s Park. The new attraction will come with other lovely features: a new covered seating area for parents, a Kids’ Korner playground, a new pavilion, and additions and renovations to parking and bathrooms.

a Groveland woman with disorderly intoxication. Here’s the kicker: She was not wearing any pants at the time of her arrest. Apparently, someone tried to pickpocket her that same evening but missed by a hair.

6 // A BOMB THREAT AT WALMART in Mount Dora forced the evacuation of hundreds of shoppers. Why do people continue to try to turn Walmarts into Targets?

NEW BIZ YEAR, NEW DIGS!

BUZZ

At Style we know presentation is everything. Our younger brother publication, Lake Business Magazine, is growing rapidly and needs a new set of clothes. Expect a new tailored look for LBM this year, emphasizing “LAKE.” This magazine is intended for the benefit of those interested in Lake County commerce and development, and the new look will reflect where the publication’s focus is as it continues to grow.

A FACELIFT FOR FERRAN Anyone who’s paid a visit to Eustis’ beloved Ferran Park will notice some changes going on.

Phase Two of the Ferran Park Master Plan has been in progress for the latter part of 2015. Improvements include landscaping, beautification to the park’s entrances, a new LED monument sign, and wider, better connected sidewalks for a more pedestrian-friendly experience.

This month, construction begins on the new splash pad, expected to open in May. In addition, the city will solicit requests for proposals in either March or April for a farmer’s market vendor and a watercraft vendor for the park.

“We have two really big city docks and we want to increase their usage,” said Miranda Burrowes, public information officer for the city. “The vendor would have access to four slips and be able to rent kayaks, paddleboards, and even small johnboats.”

The Sumter County Chamber of Commerce recently joined The Bushnell Senior Center in celebrating its grand opening with a special ribbon cutting ceremony. The senior center is a place for individuals 60 and older to socialize, play Bingo, listen to live music, enjoy good food, and meet new people.

With much anticipation, Dr. Jeffrey Brabham recently opened the doors to Florida Oncology Tavares Radiation Treatment Center.

Dr. Brabham, who is medical director, opened the center to provide worldclass cancer care in an environment marked by both serenity and convenience. He brings together a highly trained and specialized team with the newest, most advanced technologies in radiation treatment, which includes the Varian TrueBeam™.

TrueBeam allows radiation treatments to be faster, more accurate, and more comfortable than any previous radiation therapy platform, and Florida Oncology Tavares is the only facility in the area to offer it.

Dr. Brabham is joined by Julie Muhr-Wilson, office manager; Ken Cashon, medical physicist; Paula Quincy, dosimetrist; Mary Barnett, registered nurse; Colleen Royle, chief radiation therapist; Yanara Chavarri, radiation therapist; and Michelle Landis, medical receptionist.

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First things first // person of interest

WHAT IS YOUR NO. 1 FOCUS COMING INTO THIS NEW POSITION? I’m all about creating engaging experiences and effective resources for our members. I want to make sure our members feel valued, that they know what we are doing is to help them be productive and to make their jobs easier.

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT LAKE AND SUMTER’S FUTURE? I think helping in creating the lifestyle and the landscape of an area people want to come to live in. It’s up to the people to decide what we become. We have lots of land, undeveloped land. We can create because the canvas is still pretty open.

I’d like to see more people be engaged in the process, and not just be told what it is going to look like. They can be part of the direction we take.

WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO FOR THE BUILDERS? The No. 1 thing I have my eye on is taking programs that educate both our builders, as well as the community, and using them to raise the bar on the home building industry, altering people’s perception of it. We have a lot of really great, dedicated people, so we want to stop unlicensed activity, which fosters a bad reputation.

Executive Director, Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter

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FAVORITE PODCAST? John Maxwell. He used to be a minister but is now a motivational speaker. Nothing he says is earth shattering, it’s just a reminder to do the right thing.

COFFEE OR TEA? Coffee.

FAVORITE QUOTE? “Always take the high road, because there’s not a lot of traffic up there.”

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

LISA TEMPLINRAYBORN

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST HOBBY? Watching “Madam Secretary.” It’s my new version of “24.” I was a huge “24” fan.

second one, a 2015 Stingray, an employee came to my home and introduced me to the technology c that this car has. Vann Gannaway G employees go above and beyond to This i satisfy customers.”

CHECK OUT MORE REVIEWS

HWY 441 / EUSTIS FL 32726 WWW.VGCH C EV E Y.COM 352.343.2400

SEE OUR LATEST VIDEO

THANK YOU, PHIL! YOUR KIND WORDS CONTINUALLY INSPIRE US TO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

THANKS LAKE COUNTY FOR 35 YEARS OF SUPPORT!

ny car needs. • Awesome experience. Delores did an excellent job showing us vehicles and helping us make a good decision. • Once again th Vann Gannaway went out of their way to repair the shifter in my Corvette. They got the parts overnighted and had me back in the car the next s very pleased with the the sevice manager ass well as the techs. • I needed a new key FOB and didn’t have an appointment but Dwayne and k care of me rigght awayy. Can’t sayy enouggh about the ualit of service and the friendliness of sales at this dealershipp. I would higghlyy recomm • Service was great! Brad in service took care of me and Melvin made sure I was taken care of. Yolanda in Accessories took care of getting dshield tinted since my sunvisor was not long enough. I love the great service I always receive at Vann Gannaway! I am so very glad I boug from them! God bless them all! • This is the best place to buy a car and have a car serviced. My sales rep (Joe Kauk) and my mechanic (S

THE VILLAGES, FL

PHIL WINKLER

WHAT I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT VANN GANNAWAY

d a water pump replaced that was under warranty and the service was very fast and we were kept well informed. • Our service rep, Brad Bai s veryy eeffi fficcient ient aand nd ccourteous. ourteous. • Q Quick uick sservice ervice oonn VVolt. olt. H Had ad a w water ater ppump ump rreplaced eplaced tthat hat w was as uunder nder w warranty arranty aand nd tthe he sservice ervice w was as very very fast fas an weree kept well informed.

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First things first // outstanding student Keeping his cool

WHY DID YOU GO BACK TO SCHOOL? I was working at Home Depot after I got out of the Army, and then I started helping family members with rental properties. When you’re dealing with rental properties, especially older rental properties, things break down all the time. I fixed broken windows and tried to fix air conditioners. That’s when God called me back to school. He opened doorways so I could go back when I wasn’t really doing anything.

WHY HVAC? I tried to work on units and figured being here in Florida there is really no shortage of jobs for air conditioner repairmen.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES WITH THIS NEW CAREER? I just want to have a good job and support my family.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING THING YOU’VE LEARNED IN THE PROGRAM? There are a lot of things you learn that have to do with chemistry and electrical connections. You have to put a lot together to understand how air conditioners really work.

HOW LONG WERE YOU IN THE ARMY? Four years. I did one tour in Iraq.

HOW DID THE SERVICE PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR NEW CAREER? It helped in just about every situation, with adaptability, problem solving, and responsibility.

AGE 29/HVAC STUDENT AT LAKE TECH

JAMESFUHRMAN

FAVORITE QUOTE? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

FAVORITE SONG? “Voice of Truth” by Casting Crowns.

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and Sensory Walk March 19th, 2016

LAKE SUMTER STATE COLLEGE

Sign up now!

To register:

To register: http://newvisionfl.org/events

Eye Care, I Run!

New Vision for Independence provides training to help people of all ages with visual impairment in Lake and Sumter Counties learn to adapt to and overcome vision loss. Join us at the annual EYE RUN proudly sponsored by Lake Eye Associates for a 5k run/walk, 10k run and 1/2 mile blindfolded sensory walk – all to benefit New Vision for Independence.

Shirts will be given to 5k and 10k participants who register by March 18th, and all finishers will receive a custom Eye Run medal.

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You can also opt for Transitions lenses with any package, so the choice is yours, always priced well below retail.

For the look that invite looks, come discover the affordable optical packages from Precision Optics, with two locations in The Villages® community:

352-365-2021 ,ADY ,AKE s ,EESBURG s 4AVARES s 4HE 6ILLAGES

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at

REALTOR OF THE YEAR, ®

IS THE

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COLLEEN DONLEVY-BURNS

REAL DEAL From marketing croutons and cola in the corporate arena to selling homes in the world of real estate, Colleen Donlevy-Burns attributes much of her success to good communication skills. The Montverde resident’s career reached a pinnacle when the REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties recently named her Realtor® of the Year.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

February 20 16

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When Colleen Donlevy-Burns helps you find a new home, don’t be surprised if you are still getting holiday or anniversary cards from her 12 years later. She’s been in real estate full-time since 2004 and she’s still in touch with her first clients.

“I consider myself their Realtor for life,” says Burns, a real estate consultant with Avalar Real Estate Services. “You never know when they will want to buy another house.”

Burns is devoted to her industry, having served on the board of directors for the REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties for nearly seven years. She’s also made time to serve on numerous committees for the 1,800-member organization, as well as in professional leadership roles with the South Lake Council of Realtors. A multimillion-dollar producer, Burns has received many awards and honors over the years, but the recent Realtor® of the Year is something only a few real estate professionals ever achieve.

“Only the elite hold that award,” explains Brenda Rodgers, executive director for the REALTORS® association. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime honor given by peers who are past recipients. The winners are considered to be the ‘elite of the elite.’

“Our association has grown by leaps and bounds because of members like Colleen,” Rodgers continues. “She’s one of the people who looked to the future.”

The award honors association members who contributed the most to the profession, to fellow real estate agents, and to the community over time.

Criteria are based on ethics, business accomplishments, community involvement, character, and personality.

And Burns’ personality is something that shines through whether it’s selling houses, striking a pose for a photo shoot, or making a tongue-in-cheek YouTube video about a super agent. She was so surprised by the Realtor® of the Year honor that she wanted “to meet that person” when association president Jim Mariucci read the accolades.

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“It wasn’t until he mentioned that the winner lived in Montverde that I realized it was me,” she says with a laugh.

“I am very honored and appreciative of the recognition.”

Real estate seems to be a natural fit for Burns, who had a long and successful marketing and management career in the corporate world before joining Century 21 in 2004 and quickly becoming a Top 10 producer among 250 agents. It could be that real estate was her destiny. When she was a student at Manhattenville College in New York, she took a career assessment test and the results recommended real estate as a possible career. Instead of that career path, however, she went on to the University of Miami for a Master of Business Administration degree.

“Real estate was always in the back of my mind,” she says. “It was years later when I was at Chatham Village Foods and they sold out that I thought it was time to get my real estate license.”

The real estate career was put on hold awhile longer when a corporate headhunter came calling and offered her another corporate job making good money and a car.

“I did not think I could make that kind of money in my first year of real estate,” says Burns. “I kept my license and took the test every two years. When I was working with Farmland Foods and they got sold, I put my faith in God that I could succeed in real estate.”

“OUR ASSOCIATION HAS GROWN

BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS BECAUSE OF MEMBERS LIKE COLLEEN.

SHE’S ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO LOOKED TO THE FUTURE.” — BRENDA RODGERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, REALTORS® ASSOCIATION

Burns belied her own prediction about early real estate earnings and became a multimillion-dollar producer in her first year with Century 21.

She said getting an MBA degree gave her confidence in herself, but she attributes her success to her father, who worked his way up from driving trucks for Pepsi-Cola to being president of company plants.

“He always told me I could be whatever I wanted to be,” she remembers. “I also have never taken no for an answer.”

Her persistence and positive attitude helped her market everything from Kellogg’s cereals to King Cola (a venture developed by her dad and a friend) to pre-packaged croutons long before they were popular.

“Chatham Foods was the first one to bring ready-made croutons to market in about 1993,” says Burns, who was responsible for developing Chatham’s crouton business throughout the U.S. “I made calls and got us in with United, American, U.S. Air, and others. I learned a lot by getting something new off the ground.”

Today, all that experience has led her to be a successful realtor, serving clients in Lake, Sumter, and parts of West Orange. She says some people believe being a Realtor is easy, but it’s not always as smooth as it seems.

“The easy part is finding a house,” says Burns. “A lot goes on behind the scenes. You have to stay in touch with other realtors and sometimes they don’t do what they should do.”

She says being a good communicator is vital to a real estate career just as it is in any field.

“You have to be a good listener and stay in touch with your clients,” she adds.

Burns once had a prospective client in England who she sent listings to for six years before he finally bought a home.

“I have a lot of patience,” she says with a laugh. “I also have faith that when one door closes, God will open another that’s even better.”

For Burns, the most rewarding part of the job is helping families find homes.

“I’m very careful that they are getting a good investment, because it’s often the biggest investment in their lives,” she says. “It’s especially rewarding when they thought they couldn’t afford to buy a house.”

Trends that Burns is seeing in this area include more energy efficient homes and new development, especially in the Minneola area.

“Minneola is going to get hotter than ever…it’s going to take off like crazy,” she says. “The area has benefited from Lake-Sumter State College becoming a four-year school.”

She’s also seeing prospective buyers from northern Lake County retirement communities who still want 55-plus communities but want to be closer to Orlando’s theme parks for visiting grandchildren.

Burns’ downtime is spent with her family. Her husband, Glenn, is a town councilman for the city of Montverde and a Geographic Information System (GIS) consultant who wrote the grant for the Florida Scenic Highway. She often spends time driving around with him when he’s on assignment. The couple has two daughters: Megan, who graduated from veterinary school at the University of Florida last year, and Anna, currently a student at the University of South Florida.

She likes to read and play backgammon but thoughts about work are never far off.

“I love what I do…I don’t think of myself as a workaholic because real estate is not work to me,” Burns explains. “I see it as helping people.

After all, I consider myself your Realtor for life.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: People use the terms REALTOR® and real estate agent interchangeably, but that is incorrect. There are differences between REALTORS® and real estate agents. They are not the same. Although both are licensed to sell real estate, the basic difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR® is a REALTOR® is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. As such, the main difference that you hear a lot about—but are likely confused about —is that a REALTOR® must subscribe to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.

February 20 16

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Celebrating 10 Years Of Success Thanks To Our Dedicated And Diversified Team

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352.435.HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788 352.530.2665 // 1217 W MILLER ST., SUITE 6, FRUITLAND PARK, FL 34731 morrisrealtors.com

VOL. 5 // ISSUE 1

THERESA MORRIS REALTOR® // BROKER // OWNER

352.360.3736 // THERESA@MORRISREALTORS.COM THERESA SELLS A PROPERTY EVERY 29 WORKING HOURS!

LAKE UMATILLA! With spectacular views and on two acres this 6/4 home is perfect for any family.

Granite counter tops, formal dining with crown covering indirect lighting, and walk in butler’s pantry.

Original windows, large foyer, and original wood floors. Formal living with wood burning fireplace, double French doors that lead to front porch with brick floor. In-law quarters includes gas range full size. Bosch dishwasher side by side stainless refrigerator. Bath with pedestal sink, tub/shower, bedroom plus separate living room area. Attached 4 car garage. $449,000 MLS# G4820905

CHAIN OF LAKES! On approximately 1.5 acres this 3/2 home has no HOA fees and is boarded on two sides by the lagoon leading to the Chain of Lakes. Large eat in kitchen with granite countertops and an island for additional space. Detached building for an additional man cave or in-law quarters. $359,900 MLS# G4821096.

TUCKED AWAY on quiet cul-de-sac is this wonderful 3/2 with 2 car garage plus 2 workshops detached for the “handyman” with electric! Master bath with double sinks, garden tub, separate glass walk in shower, and deep walk in closet. Open patio great for BBQ’S and entertaining. $174,950 MLS# G4820512.

TERRIFIC FIND! This 3/2 has been completely remodeled. New exterior/interior paint., kitchen and bathrooms, carpet and tile throughout, and new hardware and ceiling fans. Formal living/dining area.

Great room with fireplace and oversized family room and more! $189,000 MLS# G4818510.

PEACEFUL PARADISE on lovely Myrtle Lake. Residential plus income producing ranch estate on waterfront.

Amazing 3/3, with formal living and dining rooms. Family room with real wood burning buck stove, and cathedral ceilings.Includes covered rv patio that could house up to a 38 ft. 5Th wheel. $590,000 MLS# G4818289.

MEMORIES BY THE FIREPLACE! 2/2 split floor plan. Master bedroom with walk in closet & master bath with separate dressing area & water closet with shower. Side entry 2 car garage. Huge back porch & attached additional storage in rear of home. $147,900 MLS# G4815351.

LAKEFRONT! Lovely 4/3.5, tri - level home. Boating, skiing, fishing, kayaking on a pristine crystal clear lake.

Bedrooms carpeted with split bedroom plan for privacy for your guest or in-laws. Formal living, dining rooms, and family room with stone wood burning fireplace with bench setting. Open layout of home invites itself to lake views, awesome sun sets or stargazing from the large screened birdcage pool and deck area. Home made for large family and entertaining. $549,000 MLS# G4818701

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

725 E Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352.408.5999 cell // 352.742.1077 fax

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WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

We are committed and passionate professionals who puts our clients' best interests and satisfaction above all else.

Our team’s determination to cater to our clients' specific needs coupled with our market expertise, attention to detail and superior negotiating skills allows you to receive first class service.

JO LEEN COOPER HOWE RESIDENTIAL SALES // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND RENTALS

352.267.0770 // JOLEEN@MORRISREALTORS.COM THE RESULTS WILL MOVE YOU!

FLORIDA LIVING ON THE WATER IN THE PLANTATION The BAGONIA model and its blooming

with upgrades. 3/3 and extra half bath. Your own separate office, formal living and dining room.

Family room overlooking Lake Lessman. Enjoy the views $299,500 MLS# G4818472.

10 ACRES-HORSE LOVERS PARADISE Home has over 2500 sq ft of living area with tons of upgrades

throughout. 3 car garage. Oversized 2 car gargae.8 stall barn and huge workshop. RV hookup. Fenced and cross fenced with irragation water to every pasture. LUSH green pastures. Private and secluded. There is no place like HOME and this is IT. $430,000 MLS# G4819760.

REDUCED FISH FROM YOUR OWN BACKYARD. Corner lot.

Deep water canal on the chain of lakes In lake harris shores. 500 Yearly dues includes water for the year too. $149,900 MLS# 4813559.

CUSTOM BUILT HOME BY KEVCO-5+/- ACRES IN THE COUNTRY Eustis area. 3 bedrooms, possible 4.

Many upgrades throughout. Detached oversized 3 car garage with bonus room upstairs. Fenced and cross fenced and close to several horseback riding preserves.$ 374,900.

REDUCED

CLOSE TO THE VILLAGES Master bedroom downstairs. All appliances stay even the washer and dryer. New carpet and freshly painted. New AC in 2012, New roof in 2011, and new well pump in 2010. Affordable home 3/2 for only $115,000.

FABULOUS FIND IN THE FAIRWAYS tucked away but minutes away from Brownwood Square in the Villages. 3/3 with office/Den. Open floor plan with upgrades galore. 3 car garage and home is on oversized lot. $348,900 MLS# G4816883.

HOME ON DEEP WATER CANAL IN LAKE HARRIS SHORES Spacious home with huge kitchen, living

room and family room with fireplace. Covered patio overlooking the water. $189,900.

morrisrealtors.com

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JOAN DEFOE REALTOR®

352.516.6843 // JOAN@MORRISREALTORS.COM REAL ESTATE “LITTLE GIANT” // MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER // PREMIER AGENT

CHAIN OF LAKES WATERFRONT! Tucked away in your own oasis this great three bedroom two bath home also includes a den/office. Two boats slips with double hoist and upstairs sun deck or great for star gazing.

Spectacular views from almost all rooms to enjoy sunsets and sunrises. Deep driveway with lots of parking leads to this BOATERS DREAM HOME! $499,000 MLS# G4815689.

BONUS! FOR YOUR BUYERS! Seller will pay initiation fee for social membership in HARBOR HILLS COUNTRY CLUB. LIKE NEW..MOVE IN READY! 3/2 including all appliances. Living/Great Room, brand new carpet, Inside laundry, and 2 Car Garage. $164,500 MLS# G4821494.

REDUCED

BRING THE FAMILY to this gated community! 3/2.5 has all the amenities you desire; clubhouse, sparkling pool, and playground area. Over sized master suite with walk-in closet, double sinks, and garden tub with separate walk-in shower. Large kitchen/dining area with bay window a great room with screened porch. $174,900 MLS# G4819120.

AMAZING VIEW OF LAKE IDLEWOOD with your own dock and boat ramp. Spectacular lake view through glass sliding doors and large screened porch with river rock flooring. Kitchen remodeled with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. $274,850 MLS# G4816438.

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WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

VALERIE FOERST REALTOR®

352.360.3492 // VALERIE@MORRISREALTORS.COM

YOUR CENTRAL FLORIDA NATIVE // 35 YEARS OF HELPING CENTRAL FLORIDA WITH THEIR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

JUST LISTED Scottish Highlands Pond view with

custom upgrades. Ceramic Tile throughout, gorgeous open light kitchen, with Island split plan, no popcorn ceilings and roof was replaced in ‘09. Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $110,000 MLS# G4816037.

BACK ON THE MARKET 4 bedroom 4 bath with

POOL. Very open retro plan with Tile in all living areas. Cathedral Ceilings and possible Mother-InLaw suite. This is a very Unique Home! Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $215,000 MLS# G4808450.

SUNSETS OVER THE VILLAGES. Close to all the Squares and Charter Schools without the Village cost and bonds. Like new custom block home with a lot of upgrades and an ideal location next to 1 acre community area perfect for the little ones. Yep, neighbors on only one side of your 1/2 acre lot. 3/2 split plan with office has vaulted ceilings, stunning kitchen with stainless appliances wood laminate flooring. Your future awaits, call now! Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492

NEAR THE VILLAGES IN WINGSPREAD - with a 4 CAR GARAGE! Stately 4 bedroom plus office and Fireplace. Volume Ceilings, Granite counter tops, Lots of Tile and Laminate on a half acre. Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492. $340,000 MLS# G4815521.

NEW CONSTRUCTION Ryland Homes 3/2 in Grand Island Reserve, 1481 SQ FT with Granite Countertops and Tile in living areas. $152,946 MLS# T2759876.

Have a home to Sell? Buy a Ryland Home and ask about the huge discount possible on YOUR sale. You must Call Valerie Foerst 352-360-3492.

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PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT INSPECT BEFORE YOU INVEST

morrisrealtors.com

| 5

KIM DUCHARME REALTOR®

352.874.5906 // KIM@MORRISREALTORS.COM KIM CONNECTS...YOUR REAL ESTATE CONNECTION!

REDUCED

REDUCED

BRING ONE; BRING ALL! There’s room for the entire family is this rare find. Main home features 3/2, formal dining, living, family room, large kitchen with granite countertops. Master suite with fireplace.

1/1 in-law apartment features living, bar, and kitchen. Screened pool with lanai, 2 pole barns, private basketball court, horse stalls, RV parking, all on 6 acres! A must see! $649,000 MLS#G4819722.

UNFORGETTABLE FIRST IMPRESSION! 3/2 golf

BREATHTAKING VIEWS FROM EVERY ROOM! Come home to the 3/2 remodeled lake home. Featuring over 2,600 sq ft of living the entire home is new. New kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, self closing drawers and more. Staggered porcelain tile throughout the main floor. Dining area features electric fireplace. Large lot directly on Lake Unity also includes boat dock with lift. You will fall in love at first sight! $399,000 MLS# G4817892.

WOW! COME SEE THIS SPACIOUS 3/2 Located in Howey in the Hills boasting over 2,200 sqft of open living. Formal living/dining area, open kitchen overlooks family room. Master bath includes dual sink vanity, walk in shower, & garden tub. Other features include new roof within 3yrs, newer appliances. A must see! $249,000.

HARBOR HILLS - 3/2 with direct golf course frontage on just under 1 acre. 1800+ sq ft of living. Open floor plan, volume ceilings, granite countertops in kitchen.

Immaculate and move in ready! .A must see! 2 car garage + golf cart garage. $239,000

3/2 POOL HOME over 2,000 sq ft of living space. Open

kitchen overlooks family room. Master bedroom features trey ceilings, sliders to pool area, and bay windows. Master bath includes dual sink vanity, garden tub, walk in shower, and walk in closet. Screened enclosure with swimming pool and separate jacuzzi. $184,900. MLS#G4821864

course frontage home is located in the Gated golfing community of Harbor Hills. Featuring over 2500 sq.ft. of living. Vaulated ceilings, split floor plan, kitchen with granite. His/her garage and separate den. $319,000 MLS# G4816150.

LIFE CHANGING CONVENIENCE! 3/2 + den minutes from the mall! 1800 sqft of living. Features include volume ceilings, open kitchen overlooks living room, formal dining, split floor plan. Master bedroom includes walk in closet, jucuzzi tub, dual sinks, and separate shower stall. Screened lanai and fence backyard and more! Call today! $149,000.

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WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

Contact: Amanda Wettstein

352.406.0422

GREG BOLIEK REALTOR®

352.267.2349 // GREG@MORRISREALTORS.COM

$20,000 PRICE REDUCTION! Only 5 minutes from shopping and the villages. 2/2, 1650 Sqft, indoor laundry, lanai is glass enclosed and has a/c, extended patio for BBQ, enclosed pool, fenced yard, 2 car garage with multiple builtins for storage, 1 car carport, large site built shed. $130,000 MLS# G4818482.

$10,000 PRICE REDUCTION! Come and take a look at this fully furnished, 3/2 home on a 1 acre lot. Open floor plan, formal living room, family room, breakfast bar, and indoor laundry. This home needs some TLC and will be a great family home. Owner asked that everyone who tours this home make an offer. $70,000 MLS# G4820082.

AMAZINGLY AFFORDABLE! 3/2, kitchen has breakfast area, range, dishwasher, , great room and dining area with cathedral ceiling, Florida room with glass windows, fenced backyard including storage shed.

Great Location close to shopping, schools, college and restaurants. $148,900 MLS# G4815779.

PRICED FOR A QUICK SALE. This is a must see 2/2 14 x 56 single wide, with an 11 X 19 addition plus an 11 X 16 open lanai and 1 car carport. Central Air and Heat replaced approximately 4 years ago as well as the roof, completely furnished, inside laundry, and storage shed. All appliances included. $16,500.

HAYNES CREEK ACCESS! Doublewide with over 1300 sqft, 2/2, new flooring, kitchen cabinets, appliances, screened lanai, attached workshop, 2 detached sheds, storage shelves everywhere, lot rent includes water, sewer. Located in the wonderful waterfront community of Tara Village. $25,200.

CLOSE TO SHOPPING AND RESTAURANTS! Home is clean and well kept, fully furnished. Nice 2/2, open floor plan, separate dinning room, breakfast bar, built in shelving, and laminate flooring throughout. Lot rent includes lawn service, water, sewer, trash pick up. $29,900

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| 7

LAUREN FICKETT REALTOR®

352.636.2167 // LAUREN@MORRISREALTORS.COM LEAVE IT TO LAUREN!

COUNTRY LIVING AT IT’S FINEST! 5 ACRES! 4/3, 3500+ sq ft of living. Formal living with fireplace, Kitchen with gorgeous cabinetry and granite overlooking family room, Formal dining.

Whole house crown molding. To many upgrades to list. Call today. $549,000.

ELEGANT...EXQUISITE...STUNNING! Luxury living at it’s finest with this new home. Will be completed August 2015. 4/3.5 home with 4,200 sqft of living and 3 car garage situated on almost 4 acres. Summer kitchen with gorgeous pool with tanning area and spa. Gated community. Truly a must see! $745,000.

PEACE AND QUIET AWAITS YOU! 2+ acres! POOL HOME! This 2 bedroom 1.5 bath home is settled back off the road with such a private feel. Gorgeous large pool area.

Great for entertaining. New A/C in 2013 and new pool pump 2014. $159,000.

BRING YOUR OWN BUILDER! This gorgeous lot is perfect for a new home. Lake view. Gorgeous oak trees. Nice and open. $29,900.

LEGACY OF LEESBURG! Double door entrance welcomes you to this gorgeous 3/2. Formal dining area, Living area, Kitchen with beautiful 42” cabinets that overlooks the family room. Romantic master suite with additional office/den.

Corner lot! $198,000.

MOTIVATED SELLER! C'mon into this recently remodeled home! This 4/2 boasts over 1800 sq ft and $30,000 worth of upgrades. Large bedrooms, tray ceilings in family room, Kitchen with eat in space. Huge fenced in backyard with shed. New roof 2015! $159,900.

PANDORA • Vera Bradley • Costa Del Mar Vietri Lampe Berger & much more!

7 -AIN 3T p (ISTORIC $OWNTOWN ,EESBURG &, p /PEN - & p 3AT

SecurityNational Mortgage Company, Inc. 5222 Andrus Ave, Suite A Orlando, FL 32810

O: 407.730.2902 // F: 407.641.9395 Branch Phone: 407.730.8823

shopaladas.com

Todd Levensohn Sales Manager 321.287.5440 NMLS 299664

Branch NMLS 1449449 | Co. NMLS 3116 | State License: FL-LO12263 | snmcloanteam.com/toddlevensohn | todd.levensohn@snmc.com

8|

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

MARSELLA FABRE

REALTOR®

352.217.0575 // MARSELLA@MORRISREALTORS.COM

ONE OF THE KIND! CANAL FRONT… this fabulous home offers 5 bedrooms 4 1/2 baths plus separate 1/1 with full kitchen in law apartment. High ceilings in living room with wood burning fire place, great kitchen, office, inside laundry. Lease option/purchase possible with satisfactory terms to sellers. Venture to the ocean! Convenient in town location near hospital, school, and shopping. Come and make this home yours! MLS# G4707007.

BRING THE FAMILY! Stunning lakefront 5/4 with pool. Enjoy almost 2 acres on tranquil peaceful waters. The home offers formal living & dining areas a great kitchen island and walk in pantry for the gourmet cook and breakfast nook open to great room, multiple master suits, den/office. Plenty room on the lanai/ pool area, in winter snuggle next to the fireplace. Outdoors you can enjoy your own basketball & tennis court or fish from your own dock. Great location! Call today! MLS# G4810354.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD 4/3 HOLLY MODEL Huge kitchen Granite counter opens to breakfast nook and family room to sliding doors to lanai on L shape with room for a pool. This neighborhood is open to ALL Ages. Master with His & Hers closets, double vanities, garden tub, and Separate oversize Shower. Close to everything. Superb location.

Call me MLS# G4816810.

BEAUTY & COMFORT Gated secure golf community.Enjoy custom built & Expanded great Spruce model. 3/2 plus 1/2 bath guest. Foyer opens to formal dining area, separate living area, oversize kitchen with upgraded appliances that included: range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. 20X10 screen birdcage porch w acrylic roof and custom shade. 55 and Better. Call me, don’t miss it MLS# G4816722.

morrisrealtors.com

| 9

MICHAEL BARRETT

RESIDENTIAL SALES // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND RENTALS

352.255.5710 // MICHAEL@MORRISREALTORS.COM

VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD “THE CLUBHOUSE” Gated Community Family and Adult Community Large Clubhouse and Pool

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD Featuring 5/3.5 this conventional floor plan with a downstairs master suite includes crown molding, large walk-in closet, double sinks and garden tub. Kitchen has Corian counter tops, upgraded cabinetry, and breakfast bar. $219,990 MLS# G4816271.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD BEAUTIFUL! 3/2.5 two story home feautures diagonally laid tile, flowing floor plan, and large patio. Kitchen offers gorgeous black whirlpool appliances. Master includes double sinks, walk-in closet. $184,990 MLS# G4816270.

THE VILLAGES OF PARKWOOD Exquisite 4/2.5 features an inspiring kitchen with 42” cabinetry, granite, and loads of counter space. Bonus Room downstairs could be a den/office or extra bedroom. Master includes granite counter tops, custom tiled shower, double sinks and large garden tub. Loads of extras! $259,990 MLS# G4816313.

David Knowles Exclusive Agent David A. Knowles Agency Allstate Insurance Company 27615 US HWY 441 Suite 110 Leesburg 34748 24 Hour Customer Service

Cell: 352.455.2589 10 |

FL Insurance License # A143808 Phone: 352.326.9300

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

Fax: 352.326.3931

SCOTT STREM

REALTOR®

352.978.3428 // SCOTT@MORRISREALTORS.COM SERIOUS ABOUT SELLING // MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER

REDUCED

REDUCED

WONDERFUL LAKE DORA FRONTAGE ON PRESTIGIOUS LAKESHORE DRIVE! This 3/2.5 home features nearly 125 ft.

LAKE frontage on half and acre, complete with boat dock and aluminum seawall! Home features a spacious kitchen, vaulted ceilings, newer roof and A/C, and updated flooring! LOW COUNTY TAXES! $415,000 MLS# G4807523.

BEAUTIFUL LAKE FRONT HOME ON LAKE DORA ON OVER 1/2 ACRE! Home features 3/2 with den/office, stainless steel appliances, and also a 2 car garage. Recently built private boat dock features boat lift, jet ski lift, and screened room for taking in the amazing sunsets on the lake! Just minutes to downtown Mount Dora! $349,900 MLS# G4800507.

1 ACRE C-3 HEAVY COMMERCIAL CORNER including two commercial buildings partially leased. 2850 Sqft building divided into 3 units/950 sqft each and 2nd building is 1740 sqft office warehouse. Lots of parking and property in good repair. Great income investment, with great rental income! $255,000 MLS# G4820047.

EXCEPTIONAL OFFICE/WAREHOUSE BUILDING located in green leaf business park in busy leesburg. Great location with easy access to the villages, clermont, turnpike etc. 6,750 Total with very nicely appointed 870 sq ft office space. Approved for another 4500 sq ft of space if desired. Clear span design. 2 Grade level 14x16 rollup doors. $340,000 MLS# G4686423.

BEAUTIFUL HOME ON LAKE ELDORADO! This wonderful paradise features 2/2, a detached 2 car garage. Attached garage has been converted in to a 3rd bedroom, but could easily be converted back to garage or shop! Located in peaceful county location with amazing views and direct frontage on the lake! $195,000 MLS# G4819854.

DIRECT LAKE HARRIS LAKEFRONT! This one of a kind lot boasts 200+/- ft of frontage on the Harris Chain of Lakes, elevated sunset views over the water, and even a professionally maintained organic orange grove on site!

This is paradise! $335,000 MLS# G4815996.

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ONE OF A KIND! 90 +/- ACRES ON LAKE YALE! Over 2000 waterfront feet on lake yale and over 2400 front feet on cr 452! Beautiful level land with amazing waterfront views. Property has numerous potential uses! $849,900 MLS# G4808401.

PROFITABLE TANNING SALON BUSINESS FOR SALE! High traffic location, excellent visibility and signage! Located in busy, fully leased plaza across from Wal-Mart and Target!

Co-Tenants in plaza include a gym and nail salon! MAKES GREAT MONEY! $43,000 MLS# G4818028.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

725 E Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352.408.5999 cell // 352.742.1077 fax

13.45 TO 30+ ACRES OF COMMERCIAL/MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY with 1770 ft. direct lake frontage on Harris Chain of Lakes. Plus over 850 feet on busy Hwy 441! Prime property at a great price! $2,490,000 MLS# G4697916.

We are committed and passionate professionals who puts our clients' best interests and satisfaction above all else.

Our team’s determination to cater to our clients' specific needs coupled with our market expertise, attention to detail and superior negotiating skills allows you to receive first class service.

morrisrealtors.com

| 11

CAMIE KENNEDY REALTOR®

352.408.4668 // CAMIE@MORRISREALTORS.COM CAMIE CAN!

HARBOR HILLS - GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE Spacious 4/2 with beautiful panoramic golf course views.

Large glass enclosed Florida room with wet bar, vaulted ceilings, separate breakfast nook, rounded corners and many other upgrades. Great buy! $285,000 MLS# G4808902.

HARBOR HILLS - GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE 2/2 (with den)

on golf course with breathtaking views! Great room, breakfast nook, inside laundry room, enclosed, ducted Florida room, 2 car+ golf cart garage and an additional storage room/ workshop (air conditioned) located in the garage. Sure to impress! $229,000 MLS# G4819514.

HARBOR HILLS WITH GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE Southern Living comes to life in this 3/2.5 home. True one of a kind with formal dining, den/ office, wood floors, granite, Jack and Jill bath, large inside laundry room and oversized 2 car garage. Many, many features, true custom home.

Come be wowed! $319,900 MLS# G4816664.

REDUCED

SIMPLY STUNNING! 3/2 San Marco model with fenced yard and custom pond. formal living, dining, family room and spacious kitchen with all new “Bosch” appliances. Glass enclosed lanai, 2 car + golf cart garage and so much more! Call today to preview. $258,020 MLS# G4822221.

HARBOR HILLS - THE GROVES Ready to go, 3/2 pool home with no rear neighbors! Formal dining, volume ceilings, breakfast nook, split plan, separate 10x13 room, inside laundry room and much more!

All this in sought after gated/golf community. Don’t pass this one by! $239,900 MLS# G4816749.

HARBOR HILLS Immaculate inside and out! 2/2.5 with private backyard. “Seville” model with den, dining room, breakfast nook and spacious inside laundry room. Many upgrades: Pavers, extended lanai, arched entry ways and more! This is the one! $244,900 MLS# G4815925

HARBOR HILLS- VILLA (former model) with no rear neighbors and great views! 2 bedroom with one being a Master suite/Mother in Law quarters with own entrance. New carpet, neutral colors, inside laundry and more! You must check out this gem! $134,900 MLS# G4814404.

OVERLOOK AT LAKE GRIFFIN 3/2 on corner lot. Move

SILVER LAKE BEAUTY! Enjoy gorgeous sunsets over silver lake from your own home... this three 3/2.5 house features a gourmet kitchen with granite, top of the line appliances, and gorgeous features throughout. 1.7 acres with a detached game room/in law potential. $499,900.

in ready! Split floor plan, vaulted ceilings, eat in space in kitchen, 2 car garage, fresh interior paint and newer AC. Act Fast, great find! $129,900

SecurityNational Mortgage Company, Inc. 5222 Andrus Ave, Suite A Orlando, FL 32810

O: 407.730.2902 // F: 407.641.9395 Branch Phone: 407.730.8823

Todd Levensohn Sales Manager 321.287.5440 NMLS 299664

Branch NMLS 1449449 | Co. NMLS 3116 | State License: FL-LO12263 | snmcloanteam.com/toddlevensohn | todd.levensohn@snmc.com

12 |

WELCOME HOME // 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 3, LEESBURG, FL 34788

LYNN HAYNES

REALTOR®

352.516.0903 // LYNN@MORRISREALTORS.COM

GOLF COURSE HOME ON 7TH HOLE WITH EXPANSIVE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS from this spacious 3/2.5 Williamsburg model in Del Webb Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club.

Enjoy entertaining by the gas FIREPLACE in the great room which opens to the dinette and kitchen area. Kitchen offers ample counter space, tin back-splash, gas range, double door pantry and much more you must come and see. INSURANCE ON THE APPLIANCES, A/C AND HOT WATER TANK TRANSFERS TO NEW OWNER. Bedroom 2 has views of the golf course and bedroom 3 is closetless and includes the bed and wardrobe unit. Relax or entertain in the large lanai enclosed with acrylic windows with sunset views of the golf course or in the additional screen enclosed lanai. This beautifully maintained community is TRULY GATED with personnel and offers 36 holes of golf, a restaurant, clubhouse, fitness center, 3 pools and spas, tennis and pickle ball, a softball field, nature trail and 60 resident formed clubs. $375,000 MLS# G4819783.

GREAT LOCATION minutes to the El Santiago recreation

center, medical facilities, shopping, restaurants, entertainment, & more! 3/2 home on a quiet street.

Read, sip a cool drink, or enjoy company on the screened lanai with mature landscaping providing privacy. NEW PRICE********$241,900 MLS# G4816347.

BEAUTIFUL SUNRISES AND SUNSETS on this 4.54

acres in Courtney Jane Estates next Lakewood Ranches.

Build your dream home in the country but close to shopping, medical and the soon to arrive highway. Deed Restrictions protect the land value without HOA fees or being too restrictive. $179,900 MLS# G4818987.

COME HOME to enjoy the peaceful sunset with green

pasture farmland behind this home. This 3/2 home is well cared for by one owner. Pasture views from the open living/dining rooms and screen enclosed lanai.

Close to shopping, restaurants, and medical but yet a little bit in the country. $116,700 MLS# G4818824.

Take charge of your financial future.

Call us today at 352.350.2397.

VAN VOORHEES, ELSTAD & ASSOCIATES A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 3507 Wedgewood Lane The Villages, FL 32162 352.350.2397 rob.elstad@ampf.com steven.van.voorhees@ampf.com www.VE-Associates.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (7/14)

morrisrealtors.com

| 13

LENA WILLIAMS REALTOR®

352.636.4488 // LENA@MORRISREALTORS.COM LENA SELLS!

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GORGEOUS SILVER LAKE AREA POOL HOME 3200+ sqft, 4/2.5 on almost a half acre with oversized 2 car garage with work bench area, large rooms with walk in closets, wood floors, stunning fireplace, and more... This traditional style gem will not last long! $269,900 MLS# G4814359.

PRICED TO SELL! This home has over 2,400 sq.ft.,

3/2.5, and plenty of entertaining space. Fenced yard, screen enclosed lana, completely remodeled kitchen with gorgeous granite, custom cabinetry, and a convenient island. There are so many features you must see to appreciate! $219,900 MLS# G4819360.

REDUCED

THIS SPECTACULAR HOME IS MOVE IN READY! 3/2 with circular drive, split plan, large additional bonus room, incredible workshop with electric and a/c, laminate wood floors, fresh paint, corian counters, and more! A must see at $134,900! MLS# G4821804.

REDUCED

LOCATION LOCATION... Don’t miss the fabulous price!

Almost 1800 sq.ft. on a corner lot. Featuring 3 bedrooms and a large kitchen with island! Enjoy breezy nights on your screened patio or stroll the neighborhood... after all there is no thru traffic with one way in and one way out!

Low HOA fees! $129,900 MLS#G4817075.

PURELY PEACEFUL! Gorgeous Lakes and Springs

home. 3/3 with Den and bonus playroom, gorgeous granite, custom cabinets, plenty of storage, and on .79 acres with chain of lakes view and pond frontage. $379,900 MLS# G4819143.

WINDSONG AT LEESBURG! Five Bedrooms! Plenty of space with 2823 sqft, granite kitchen, private backyard, gorgeous laminate floors, upgraded fixtures, and much more. Priced at only $194,900 MLS# G4820897.

EXCEPTIONAL WATERFRONT HOME ON BEAUTIFUL SPRING FED LAKE WOODWARD! Immaculate custom

SILVER LAKE SPRINGS! This quiet community is

GORGEOUS 5.83 ACRE CHAIN OF LAKES ESTATE!

home with tons of upgrades and features. You will be impressed. Plenty of entertaining with an amazing pool and dock, additional entertaining room with custom bar.

4/4 with 2 half baths! $599,900 MLS# G4819728.

Lic# EC13005476

352-460-0810

home to this beauty... 3/2 with private backyard, completely remodeled kitchen, wood burning fireplace, amazing back porch and private road access to Silver Lake Drive! $244,000 MLS# G4820513.

• LIGHTNING & SURGE PROTECTION • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

www.ElectricalWorksFlorida.com

5/4.5 and 4500+ sq.ft.! You may spend most of your time outside in the enclosed pool area or on the custom dock, built in fire pit, plenty of entertaining areas, jet ski lift, boat hoist, and 2 story sun deck! All of the bedrooms have lake views and private bathrooms.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

725 E Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352.408.5999 cell // 352.742.1077 fax

morrisrealtors.com

| 15

YOUR PLACE TO MEET & PLAY IN LAKE COUNTY

Meetings

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Book your 2016 meeting of 25 room nights or more and receive your choice of afternoon coffee break, 30-minute reception, or afternoon 9-hole golf or tennis tournament.

Unmatched beauty within Central Florida Hills for groups of 25 - 250.

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Through motivation, ion, determination and a can-do attitude, the followin following real estate agents have distinguished themselves as premier players in their pprofession.

THIS LIST WAS PROVIDED BY THE REALTORS ASSOCIATION OF LAKE AND SUMTER COUNTIES

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TOP 2015

PRO DUC February 20 16

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37

PLATINUM LEASE CLUB

CATHERINE HANSON REAL ESTATE, INC

DUNN REALTY

GEORGE KITTLESON

MARY DUNN SEAN DUNN

CENTURY 21® CARLINO REALTY, INC

ALEX VONHARTMAN CENTURY 21® JOHN C. THOMAS, INC

BNB REALTY, INC

STEPHANIE FREDERICK

GOLD LEASE CLUB ERA® GRIZZARD REAL ESTATE

SHELLEY ANDERSON GLENN W. COWHAM, IV TWILA LARGENT RONALD RICKETTS DIANE SCHLOSSER HOWARD WHELCHEL

MULTIMILLION DOLLAR CLUB ARELLANO REALTY & INVESTMENTS, LLC

KARIN ARELLANO MARIE KAY THERESA KAY LINDA KILLORAN ASHLEY PUN ARROW REALTY & INVESTMENTS INC

JAMES ROMEYN AVALAR REAL ESTATE SERVICES

CELIA DAVIS COLLEEN DONLEVY-BURNS DOREEN LANDI TRACIE RUFFOLO ASHLEY TAYLOR BEACON REAL ESTATE & ASSOCIATES, INC

GERRI ROSENTHAL BLACK TIE REAL ESTATE & INVESTMENTS, INC

MARK DYER BONJORN REAL ESTATE, INC

PAMELA BONJORN LESLIE CAMPASANO GENGER NAREHOOD BUD KEELER CONSULTING, INC.

RALPH (BUD)KEELER CAN REALTY, LLC

NICOLE MAY

EMPIRE NETWORK REALTY

COLDWELL BANKER® CAMELOT REALTY

RETO C. BADRAUN NANCY PRUITT, PA

JUDY BLUNDELL ARTHUR BLUNDELL BILL CASEY PAUL COLLARD PHYLLIS DALLINGA PAULA GILBERT LINDA KELLERMAN SHANNON V. KING AUDREY MAINE JEANA R. MATTHEWS RAMONA MONTGOMERY ELLIOTT OWENS BREEZY OWENS ROBERT (BOB) PODELL BETTY SALAS LISA WEST ANA ZITNICK COLDWELL BANKER® TONY HUBBARD REALTY, INC

RICHARD BISAILLON DAWN GIACHETTI MARSHA BURTON GORDON KALEY HANSEN LISA HAYNES JANE KETOVER JEAN NUNN STACEY PADGETT BRANDI STEWART ANDREA SUMMERS VICKI THOMAS DONNA WALL LINDA WEBER COLDWELL BANKER® TYRE & TAYLOR

JEANNE H. SUTTON COLETTI REAL ESTATE, INC

RONALD COLETTI CYNTHIA L. COLETTI CONNIE MAHAN REAL ESTATE GROUP

CONNIE MAHAN MARY ANN MERRITT CYNTHIA TOMPKINS DANA REALTY GROUP, LLC

DANA FASSETT DAVE LOWE REALTY, INC

NOVA FULLER MICHELE LOWE PAMELA MYERS ANAMARIA NOLAN JANET SHATZER

CARLINO COMMERCIAL GROUP, INC.

JEFF CARLINO

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JANN KNIGHT

JOHN C. THOMAS

PAULA PURVIS ERA® GRIZZARD REAL ESTATE

E-DIRECT REALTY, LLC

DISCOVER FLORIDA REALTY

SIMON AMBROSE CATHERINE MACKENZIE

.com

ERA® GRIZZARD REAL ESTATE

JEANNE ABERNATHY SUSAN AICHER RICHARD BATTS LIA BEIRO RICHARD BELIVEAU ANNA BRADY DOELENE BROWN TONI CHAPMAN CHRISTI CHARPIA DONNA CLINE-HANSARD WALTER COE, PH.D MARLENE COOK SHEILA DAVIS TIM DAVIS KRIS DILEVA IAN DRUMMOND DOUGLAS E. DUVARNEY TAMMY FREILICH TERRI GORDON BONNIE GRAHAM JESSICA GRAHAM CHRISTINA GRANT LINDA GRIZZARD RYAN HEITMAN JOEL HAMBLIN SANDY KELLY HOLEWINSKI SCOTT HUBBARD FELECIA HUMPHREY OLGA JAKUBOWSKI LISA JONES CAROL JULIANELLI CHRISTINA KEENE JUDITH KELLEY TAMMY KING TAMI KLINGENBERG DALEMARIE LAMB-WITTER LAURALYN LANE ROXANNE LOGAN LORETTA MAIMONE AUTUMN MAKIN MELANIE MAKIN JAYNE MARVIN DIANA MIGUEL IRA MILLER CRISTA MOFFETT LORI MORGAN MARILYN MORRIS MICKI MORRISON KRISTEN MYER JULIE (MISTY) NOLAND KATHLEEN O’BRIEN

ANGELA PARKER JEL PARKER ROBERT PAYNE KARA PURYEAR JIM RICHARDSON KATHY REEG-PARKER CAROL SCHMID REBECCA SHORT BRIAN SMITH MARGARET (ANN) SMITH SHARON SMITH GLORIA TABOR DANIEL TATRO JULIE TOWNSEND BEVERLY VAN DE VEER KENNETH WEBER SUSAN WELLINGTON CYNTHIA WHEELER CONSTANCE WILHELM LESLIE WILLIAMSON SHARON WOOTEN CRAIG YOX EXIT® REALTY TRI-COUNTY

GINA BEFUMO JESSIE KULPAN LEAH MASON SHIRLEY PEACOCK NICHOLAS POULSEN FLORIDA INVESTMENT REALTY SPECIALIST TEAM

MATTHEW WHEATLEY FLAMINGO REAL ESTATE & MANAGEMENT

MARGARET RODRIGUEZ ROBERT SHOEMAKER FLORIDA PLUS REALTY, LLC

CLAIRE BROOKS JOHN GREENSLADE LESLEY GREENSLADE NICOLA MARTZ JELIXA NOVO DON WILSON FLORIDA REALTY MARKETPLACE

JERI ANARUMO FOUR STAR HOME BROKERS, INC

SHARON BACON GARNET EVERSOLE FOXFIRE REALTY, LLC

GARY ARNOLD BARRY COOPERSTEIN FRAN DANN-AKIN HOPE DESZELL SHEILA MCKATHAN MICHAEL RITZENTHALER JILL RUELL JOHN WALTER JIN WANG ROBERT WOODSFORD

THERESA A. MORRIS SCOTT STREM LENA WILLIAMS

JULIE CLAY KIMBERLY JONES RONALD PHILLIPS

TERZA REAL ESTATE

SEAN RICH ADAM RICH

NARROW ROAD REALTY

REAL LIVING® GOOD NEIGHBOR REALTY, LLC

THE FLORIDA PROPERTY SHOP SALES & RENTALS, INC

NORTHSTAR REALTY SERVICES

HOLLY JANE CURLEY

LILY BOUTROS GREGORY HOMAN MARY KELLY JOY RAY DEBORAH STUDER

LISA CARTER CHRIS FEAMSTER COLLIE HENDRICKSON REECE ORLANDO LYNN RISCH MARGIE SMITH MARY JO WILLIAMS

SARAH GHOLAMI

HOLLY CURLEY CHOICE REALTY, INC

FRONT PORCH REALTIES, INC

JOY ZAHN HARBOR HILLS SALES, INC

JOHN ROBERTS REALTY

MICHAEL ALBERSON KAROL MCDERMOTT KELLER WILLIAMS® CLASSIC III REALTY

REGINA CRUZ VIVIENNE CUNNINGHAM PATRICIA FLOOD KELLY FRENCH ELAINE GIDDENS CHERYL GLOVER SUSAN HALVERSON DEBBIE HAUERT TIKI JACKSON PATTI-JO JUNGREIS BRANDIE MATHISON-KLEIN SUSAN MOELLER APRIL RAGER STACEY RAY JUAN F. RODRIGUEZ GALE L. SPRINGER PAMELA (D.H.) TARVER KELLIE WHEELER CHAD WILLIAMS

BRADLEY VERKAIK

OPTIMA ONE REALTY, INC

CALEB COX ANTHONY STANLEY AIMEE STANLEY PAL REALTY

DAWN BROOKS CARY FIER MARY JANE GRIMES RICHARD (KIRK) MOREL ADRIANA SKOLODA RE/MAX® NAVIGATOR

JANNIE GURNEY RE/MAX® PREMIER REALTY

MIZZ REALTY GROUP, INC

LYNN BARTLETT BRENDA BELL BARBARA BUCALO JOHN BUXMAN PAUL CARRAWAY DEBBIE GENTRY THOMAS HELLER BRENDA HERR JARENE MATHIAS DENISE PIERCE LARRY PIERCE HOLLY STRATTON SHARON BASSETT CHRIS CANFIELD BUDDY CLARK TANA DARLEY SHARON KING BONNIE MANROSS ROSE ESPOSITO RUPE DIANE SIEFKAS ROBERT SLUTSKY CYNTHIA STEINEMANN ROLAND STULTS JOY WILSON DEBORAH WOODS

DARLENE MISCIAGNO STEPHEN MISCIAGNO

RE/MAX® REALTY CENTER INTERNATIONAL

KELLER WILLIAMS® CLASSIC VI REALTY

AUDREY BENASSI SABRINA DEEM STEVE ROBINSON JONATHAN WANBERG ANGELA WORKINGER EDDY WORKINGER LA ROSA REALTY, LLC

JOHN NAPIER PATRICIA TIVER LOWRY REALTY, LLC

SANDY TRZASKA MICKI BLACKBURN REALTY

PATRICIA DARIES MISSION INN REAL ESTATE, INC

MARY JANE EASLEY JANET PRATT

MORRIS REALTY AND INVESTMENTS

JO LEEN COOPER KIM DUCHARME LAUREN FICKETT VALERIE FOERST CAMIE KENNEDY LINDA MARSH

REALTEAM REALTY, INC

TRISH LEISNER REALTY EXECUTIVES IN THE VILLAGES

KATHERINE ABRUZZO LAUREN ARCH ROBERT A. BERUBE NANCY J. BRITTON KAROL CLARK ELIZABETH DIETRICH LAURA JENSEN SALLY LOVE KARLA MASON FRANK MELINO JOHN MELLO JOHN (J.P.) PORTA JUDY ROWLEY LINDA SEARS PASQUALE SERAFINO BEVERLY SHIVE CYNTHIA WISE CAROL YOUKEY REALTY PROFESSIONALS OF FLORIDA, LLC

NICHOLAS CLOUGH HARVEY ROSENBERG RLW REALTY

LOGAN WILSON ROBERT SLACK FINE HOMES LLC

MARY POILLION ROCK SPRINGS REALTY, LLC

JOEL A. BORNSTEIN CATHY NANFELDT SCATES REALTY & INVESTMENTS PROPERTIES, INC

EILEEN SCATES SELLSTATE NEXT GENERATION REALTY ALTY

KEN PYLES JUDY TROUT MAUREEN WILSON

HEATHER HAMILTON ADDIE OWENS KIRSTY PITTS GUY SHIPLEY KENDALL VANSANT

SMITH & SMITH REALTY, INC

RE/MAX® RESULTS

STAKE YOUR LAND REALTY, INC

SABINE BAYONA JEARRI BUSH

KATINA HARGROVE

HANK GOODWIN DANNY SMITH SPRUCE CREEK REAL ESTATE, LLC

KATY CROUSE

DELPHINE LAMPERT CINDY SAPP

TRAVIS REALTY GROUP

CARA FITZGERALD SHELLY LINDER DIANE TRAVIS

According to the National Association of Realtors, buyers indicated the biggest factors influencing their neighborhood choice were:

Quality of the neighborhood

%

63

Convenience to jobs

48% Overall affordability of homes

40% Convenience to family and friends

38%

®

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SOURCE: www.yourhomeforsale.com/blog/posts/2013/11/04/fifteen-fun-real-estate-facts/

HOMEOWNERS % HAVE A 120 BETTER CHANCE OF SELLING THEIR HOME WHEN USING A REALTOR .

VANGIE BERRY SIGNATURE REALTY

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ANNE JONES ELIZA KAPP DONALD WEBSTER VICI WINN COLDWELL BANKER® TYRE & TAYLOR

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APRIL ALLAIN KATIE MODICA

ROBERT J. GALLUCCI PAUL N. OLIVIERI FRANCES PIERCE CAROL YOUKEY

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FRONT PORCH REALTIES, INC

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February 20 16

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Meet your

ESTATE

OF LAKE+SUMTER There is nothing easy about being a Realtor or real estate agent. They have to be flexible with their demanding schedules, juggle multiple clients with family life, and answer those occasional early-morning or late-night telephone calls.

For many, however, the joy of helping clients buy or sell homes certainly trumps those small nuisances. In this special section, you can familiarize yourself with real estate professionals throughout Lake and Sumter counties who possess the necessary qualities, skills, and passion to be ultra-successful in their industry.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

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Loretta MAIMONE THE “ONE TO GET IT DONE” IN LAKE COUNTY FLORIDA

Why do Loretta Maimone’s clients recommend her to family and friends?

Because her high-energy, customer-first philosophy, her take-charge attitude, and her drive to succeed, combine to turn her clients’ real estate goals into reality. Meanwhile, her fun-loving personality makes the process pleasant and clients become friends.

Having lived in Lake County for 34 years, Loretta is familiar with every street and development in her territory, as well as the people to see when problems need solving. Her knowledge and real estate expertise, combined with well-honed listening skills, an ability to understand clients’ needs and wishes, and a reputation for “telling it like it is,” have earned her a loyal following.

Meanwhile, more than $20 million in sales in 2015 attest to her ability to “Gett it done.” don onee.”

A full-time REALTOR® with ERA Grizzard d Real Real EEstate, stat st atee, Loretta Lor oret etta was voted 2014 REALTOR® of the year by her peers in Lake and Sumter Counties. She’s also a member of the Rotary Club of the Golden Triangle, Home Builders of Lake and Sumter County, serves on several REALTOR® Association Committees, and actively supports local charities such as Deliver the Difference and The Open Door.

ERA Grizzard Real Estate 600 North Donnelly Street Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.357.2400

YOUR 24/7 TEAM Individually, people know them as Carol Julianelli, Jayne Marvin, and Kris DiLeva, but together they are Your 24/7 Team; a well-oiled machine of real estate excellence available around the clock.

They are a “Realtor Team” that doesn’t rely on assistants, buyers agents, or list agents to get the job done. They are a hands-on, equally collaborative unit that’s available whenever clients need them. This makes them different from other teams because clients are guaranteed access to three highly skilled and experienced real estate profes-

sionals who deliver a full range of services for buyers and sellers.

Outstanding communication and exceptional customer service are the foundation of the Your 24/7 Team. In turn, they produce superior results for their clients and build genuine relationships that last.

It’s more than just buying or selling a home.

It’s about delivering a rewarding real estate experience that encompasses integrity, diligence, passion, vision, and innovation, and doing it as a team—Your 24/7 Team.

Your 24/7 Team 840 County Road 466 The Villages, FL 35159 352.751.0247 www.Your247Team.com

Terri L.

GORDON REALTOR®

If there is one thing Terri Gordon has learned in real estate, it’s the importance of being a great listener. She knows her job goes beyond just helping people buy or sell a house; it’s about discovering her clients’ particular needs and guiding them toward the results they want.

“A lot of times I can tell immediately from a person’s body language if this is the home for them,” she says with a smile. “However, it can actually be beneficial to see what you don’t want so you can have a better idea of what you do want.”

It’s the difference between selling them a house and finding them a home.

“I want to know what you want your home to be. Do you want the space to host Sunday dinners? Do you want to be close to the lake to go fishing?”

Terri says. “Buying a home is a very personal thing and should be handled with care, so I go further than just finding the right number of bedrooms.”

It’s why Terri feels the most rewarding part of her job is knowing she’s assisted them in finding the perfect place to call home.

“This is a relationship business and I have had the good fortune of meeting and working with some of the most wonderful people,” she says. “I care about them and I want to help them see their dreams come true.”

Terri has lived in Lake County since 1989. She received the Rookie of the Year award after her first full year in real estate and has been a multimilliondollar producer every year.

600 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.551.9104 www.tgordon.eragrizzard.com

Jessica Huey

GRAHAM REALTOR®

Jessica Huey Graham is a third-generation Realtor, whoo obtained her broker’s license at age 19, and has been in the business iness for 17 years. As a fourth-generation Floridian, Jessica knows ws the markets in Lake, Sumter, and Marion counties. A busy mother with three children, she understands the value of making ng priorities and efficient time management. In 2015, Jessica sica had more than 136 closed transactions and $10 million in sales.

1300 Citizens Blvd, Suite 150, Leesburg, FL 34748 352-787-6966 office // 352-504-7772 cell www.ERAGrizzard.com

Scott

HUBBARD REALTOR®

840 County Road 466 The Villages, FL 32159 352-259-4900 office 352-391-3688 cell www.ScottInTheVillages.com

Originally from Indiana, I’ve worked in real estate and insurance for more than 20 years. I started visiting The Villages and Central Florida in 2003 and decided to make The Villages my home in 2012. Though we’re not 55, my girlfriend, Brenda Skoczelas, a Physics Professor at Lake Sumter State College, and I live in The Villages and love it.

We are involved with the soccer, bicycle, SCUBA, waterskiing, and boat clubs. The Villages offers unlimited activities for the active person. In The Villages you don’t a home, you buy a lifestyle.

My business plan is very simple. I answer my phone, call people back, and treat people as I would like to be treated. Buying or selling a home is a stressful time. I pride myself on being knowledgeable about the local real estate market. I specialize in The Villages, 55-plus communities, and foreclosures. That combined with full use of technology makes the buying or selling process easy, efficient, and painless as possible. In 2015 I closed $10.9 million in sales in more than 70 transactions.

I want to be your real estate professional for your buying and selling transactions. I look forward to meeting you.

Annie

RAGAR REALTOR®

There are few things Annie Ragar is more passionate about than helping locals achieve their dream of home ownership.

A Realtor with Micki Blackburn Realty since the 1980s, she has found that maintaining open communication and keeping her clients’ best interest in mind are the keys to success in real estate.

In fact, Annie was Lake County’s top-producing real estate agent for seven years, and in 2015 she achieved $5 million in sales. The lifelong Lake County resident has also been a consistent multimillion dollar producer.

“We have it all in Clermont—rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and wonderful residential communities,” she said.

“That makes it very easy for me to sell a lifestyle. I have to give lots of credit to my boss, Micki Blackburn. She is a pioneer in the real estate industry who came up with many innovative marketing programs.”

Annie does not see herself leaving real estate anytime soon.

“I love meeting all types of people, ranging from first-time homebuyers to retirees. Seeing their smiling faces when they’ve discovered the perfect home will never get old to me.”

Micki Blackburn Realty 450 E. Hwy. 50 Clermont 34711 352.394.6611

RealLiving Good Neighbor Realty The Real Estate Professionals with Real Solutions "Don’t trust one of your most important purchases to just anyone….

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Call (352) 408-0035

Lake and Sumter is finally bouncing back, and with growth comes the need for more housing.

After years of inactivity, dirt is finally starting to stir, signaling the return of residential building.

Projects are popping up all over the place, so Style decided to take a closer look at the newest stock of developments you may need to put on your house-hunting radar.

STORY: MICHELLE CLARK+SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: PROVIDED+SHUTTERSTOCK

BREAKING

GROUND February Feb F Fe eb ebrua ebru ruary rua uaary ry 20 201 16 6

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53 5 3

LEESBURG

SILVER LAKE CLUB Opened at the peak of the Florida land boom of the 1920s, Silver Lake once teemed with activity from those who enjoyed the popular golf and country club lifestyle that made it such a sought-after location.

TAVARES

ETOWAH

SILVER LAKE CLUB

However, a decline in revenue in the late 1990s and the closing of the golf course in 2008 left the future of Silver Lake unclear—until recently. Adopting the new name Silver Lake Club, the 104-acre vacant tract will eventually be home to 233 custom homes and 82 townhouses. townho “Silver Lake Club will be a refl r ection of what the country club used to be,” said Lanny Husebo, who is handling the marH keting for Silver Lake Club developer Jim Hartman. Husebo has dev resided in Silver Lake since the late 1970s.

“There will be five th to seven builders used to build the homes and it will be done in phases. Plus, there will be a new ne clubhouse that will reflect the original one. The community’s history will be tied to it.”

Silver Lake Club will feature plush landscaping around the perimeter, acting as a buffer be between adjacent communities. In addition, homes will range between 1,800 to 3,000 square feet bet and lot sizes will vary between 10,200 and 19,800 square feet.

Speaking from a resident’s stance, Husebo says he’s excited s about the future of Silver Lake Club.

“I welcome it. Hartman has a vision for what he wants to do for Silver Lake. He wants to m make it a nice, quality development,” Husebo said. “People are a speaking about how it will affect them personally, and gra granted, when I look out at my backyard I won’t have the fairways anymore. However, I have fairw to look beyond myself and think about what’s great for the area. thin We have to embrace that.”

Etowah isn’t new but with the recent activity in the new home building market, it is definitely on the path to expansion.

The KB Home, single-family community has 12 different floor plans with home sizes ranging from 1,443 to 3,550 square feet.

There are also options to build both one-story and two-story homes, and future homeowners can take their experience one step further with personalization options available through the KB Home Design Studio.

Amenities consist of an oversized pool, playground, tennis and basketball courts, a cabana, and a community dock on Lake Eustis. Homes are priced from $164,990.

EUSTIS

VALENCIA GROVE For working families looking to relocate to Eustis, Housing Trust Group’s Valencia Grove couldn’t come soon enough. Construction on the $21 million, 144-unit affordable housing community started in November and is to be completed in 13 months.

Located north of Huffstetler Drive, between Kurt Street and Dillard Road, the rental housing will contain a mix of

GROVELAND

EAGLE POINTE This 310-home Royal Oak Homes development held its official grand opening in July.

Located off Silver Eagle Road and County Road 565A in Groveland, Eagle Pointe is looking to attract people who desire a bit of quiet, country living but still want to be close to all the fun activities South Lake has to offer, such as biking, fishing, golfing, and much more.

More than 120 homes are planned for the first phase of construction; 17 of them will sit on lakefront property, offering spectacular views of Cherry and Cook lakes. Residents may choose from plans featuring three to six bedrooms and two to four bathrooms. Home sizes range from 1,695 square feet to 3,237 square feet and prices start in the $180s.

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sold, while others are still in process. A portion of the Windy Acres Farm, Fruitland Park’s rodeo, is the site of current development. The correlating section of 466A is still under road construction.

OXFORD

GRAND OAKS MANOR For a while, most of the development in Sumter County came by the way of The Villages expansion. However, this new development of luxury homes located in Oxford prides itself in maintaining the native landscape; in fact, it’s a part of the attraction for potential buy-

ers. The community’s 13,000-foot clubhouse sits in a wonderfully preserved grove of grandfather oaks, a feature that inspired the name. There are seven home styles featured: Azalea (2 bed/2 bath), Breeze (3 bed/2 1/2 bath), Jewel Box (3 bed/2 1/2 bath with the option of a spacious loft or fourth bedroom suite), Magnolia (3 bed/2 1/2 bath), Oleander (2 bed/2 bath), Serenity (2 bed/2 bath), and Willow (3 bed/2 bath); each with distinct layout features which make it perfect for different lifestyle needs.

Amenities include a resort style pool, a dog park, walking trails, playground, passive parks, and a pickleball court.

WILDWOOD

OXFORD OAKS Selling itself as a family neighborhood, this gated community is just a stone’s throw from The Villages Charter School. The development offers three kinds of homes: cottage, designer, and premier. Under each of these tiers are multiple home layouts, ensuring a divergence from the cookie-cutter community planning. The bulk of existing homes, numbered between 30 and 40 built, are located near the recreation area, but an array of beautiful plots are still available.

CLERMONT

THE CANYONS AT HIGHLAND RANCH As Clermont continues to grow, more and more housing developments are expected in the area.

One place to look out for is The Canyons at Highland Ranch.

These Taylor Morrison-built homes start from the $220s and come with a load of impressive features, including Energy Star appliances, sparkling granite countertops, tech-ready wiring, spacious master baths, and oversized walk-in closets with low maintenance shelving.

Family-friendly community conveniences include a park, pool, cabana, splash pad, mail kiosk, pet stations, and four miles of walking trails. Additionally, residents will also have access to the South Lake Trail.

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T ESI DE N E R, P R LDE RS L I Z E I JO BU KE V C O

WHEN YOU’RE READY TO BUILD YOUR HOME…

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EVCO DIFFERENCE

“THE STANDARD LIST OF FEATURES KEVCO OFFERS IS SUBSTANTIALLY MORE THAN WHAT OTHER BUILDERS OFFER. FEATURES OTHERS WANTED TO CHARGE FOR ARE STANDARD WITH KEVCO AND THAT MADE A MAJOR DIFFERENCE IN OUR IMPRESSION OF KEVCO AS WELL AS GETTING THE MOST FOR OUR INVESTMENT.

— Dr. Farhaad Golkar

For Dr. Farhaad Golkar, what started out as a desire to purchase a new home, quickly turned into a disappointment. Time after time he was finding it difficult to customize other builder’s existing plans, or he was running into additional costs for even the most basic upgrade. Until they met with Kevco Builders’ president, Joe Ziler. “We initially chose the Mona Lisa floor plan but Joe worked with us to completely customize that plan to fit our needs and lifestyle,” explains Dr. Golkar.

“He was so flexible in accommodating what we wanted. Every change, every request, everything that was going to make this home our home, Joe and his team said, ‘OK, no problem.’ The standard list of features Kevco offers is substantially more than what other builders offer. Features others wanted to charge for are standard with Kevco and that made a major difference in our impression of Kevco as well as getting the most for our investment.

Scan the code to view a video featuring the Golkar’s story

Innovation

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“WHEN WE REFLECT BACK ON THE PROCESS AND THE END RESULT, I THINK BUILDING OUR HOME WITH

KEVCO PROVIDED FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE AND A TREMENDOUS VALUE.”

—Elizabeth and Daniel Heine

Elizabeth and Daniel Heine decided their growing family had outgrown their starter home. In designing a home that they could live in for years to come, they put a premium on space and upgrades. Elizabeth explains, “Our new home has granite counters, beautiful cabinets, warm lighting and gorgeous architectural features. Things we asked other builders to do, which they said would be really expensive, Kevco said, ‘We can make that happen for you.’ So when we reflect back on the process and the end result, I just think building our home with Kevco provided for a great experience and a tremendous value.”

Scan the code to view a video featuring the Heine’s story

While both Inc. Magazine and The Orlando Business Journal have recognized Kevco Builders for its extraordinary growth as a business, Kevco president Joe Ziler knows his company’s success, awards and recognition are entirely driven by customer satisfaction and their referrals.

Since 1980, Kevco Builders has been setting the standard for stability, flexibility, quality and value. As Central Florida’s most awarded custom home builder and remodeler, Kevco Builders prides itself in its approach to the process and, perhaps the most critical foundation of any customer relationship, communication.

Whether bringing your own architectural plans, building from or customizing Kevco’s extensive collection of standard and Energy Smart® floor plans, or starting from scratch with our in-house design team, Kevco can make your home a reality.

But we also believe in maximizing the value of your investment. From upgraded baseboard and trim work to granite counters, the list of Kevco’s “standard features” impresses all, especially the most cost-conscious homeowner.

From retirees to growing families, your lot or one of ours, your Kevco home is designed to suit your needs… your wants… your lifestyle… your budget.

“We never take for granted how we got here,” says Ziler. “Builders come and go. Homes are completed and turned over to the owners. But the experience of your custom home build or remodel will linger for years, if not decades, to come. When someone asks one of our homeowners about their Kevco experience, their answer will define our next client’s expectations and perpetuate a reputation of honesty and quality we strive for every day, on every project.”

That’s The Kevco Difference.

C E N T R A L M O S T

F L O R I D A ’ S

A W A R D - W I N N I N G

C U S T O M A N D

H O M E

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R E M O D E L E R

KEVCO BUILDERS Innovation

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2104 South Bay Street, Eustis, FL 32726 KevcoBuilders.com 352.742.3398 Se habla Español CBC 1259012

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Showcase Furniture is family owned and operated by John Purvis and son; Chad. Their main line is Ashley, which is the number one selling brand of home furniture in North America. There is over 12,000 square feet of beautiful furniture for every room in your house in every style you could imagine!

Although Ashley Furniture is their main name brand, they carry many others as well. No matter what room in your house you are looking to furnish, you will be sure to find it at Showcase Furniture. There is also a separate showroom called the Sleep Zone and it is filled with complete bedroom sets and any

type of mattress that you prefer.

You will also be impressed with the large selection of accessories they have to add to the final touch: Lamps, candle holders, bar stools, T.V stands, rugs and many unique decorating pieces.

John and Chad would like to invite you to come in and look around. “We take pride in offering friendly, old fashioned service, but we never pressure our customers,” says John. “Once people do visit us and see the selection we carry, along with our modest prices, they become repeat customers.”

Recently Showcase Furniture has expanded to open a used furniture store next door to offer even more furniture

options. Perhaps you have a piece of furniture that you are tired of or perhaps doesn’t fit your décor. Now you can trade it in on a piece you will love! One new piece of furniture can make your home look totally different. Invest in yourself and your home, where you spend most of you time.

You can view some of their furniture selections at www.showcasefurnishings.com or better, stop in their showroom and look around financing is available with no credit check.

To celebrate 24 years in Lake County, Showcase Furniture is offering SPECIAL DISCOUNT.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD:

10% OFF $1000 // 15% OFF $2000 // 20% OFF $3000

ASHLEY

VISIT OUR STORE 4580 NORTH HIGHWAY 19A MT. DORA, FL 32757 PHONE: 352.357.0080

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237 West 4th Ave. Suite 2 * Mount Dora, FL 32757 * 352-383-3600 We are located in the Arbors & Eyebrows complex at the corner of Alexander and 4th Ave. in Historic Downtown Mount Dora.

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Gourmet Kitchen Products Unique and Hard To Find Specialty Kitchen Products

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JACK’S S LAR 352.267.4903 // jacksolar.com 37331 Oak Lane Umatilla, FL 32784 License # CVC56714

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Now you can deposit your checks virtually anywhere. Mobile deposit capture technology makes depositing quick and easy by using the USB App. Deposit safely and securely with check images stored at USB and never on your devices. To learn more about the many advantages of mobile deposit banking, call us at 352-669-2121 or visit our website unitedsouthernbank.com Availability may be affected by your mobile device’s coverage area. Mobile Deposit is supported on Android™ smartphones with OS 2.2+ and iPhones® with iOS 6.0+. Mobile deposits are limited to $5,000 per day.

unitedsouthernbank.com • 11 locations

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BUILDING A

DREAM

HOME without nightmares There’s something special about buying a plot of land and building a house. However, there is much to do before you open the door and say, “Honey, I’m home.”

STORY: LEIGH NEELY

A

ccording to reports from the Home Buying Institute, the rise in the job market could mean more home building for 2016. If rates go up, consider the overall cost of the mortgage and gauge the slight difference it will make in the end. You may decide the difference is negligible. It’s still a good time to build a home in Lake or Sumter counties.

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CONTACT THE CONTRACTOR With the decision to build comes the time for research before hiring a contractor. Do due diligence so you don’t end up building your disappointment instead of your home.

The old saying “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is” definitely applies to this situation. According to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, there were 440 complaints filed in their office involving unlicensed contractors. Be sure you your builder or developer’s licenses. In November, a sting operation in Okaloosa County netted 11 arrests of unlicensed individuals.

Why is it important to hire a licensed contractor? Most importantly, it’s the law. Every contractor must have a license. This means that person has the necessary education, experience, insurance, and qualifications to apply for the license. Once an application is made,

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the contractor must pass a stringent examination to receive a license.

There are a number of websites available to verify licensing information, where you can search by name, license number, city or county, or license type.

All these records are public and accessible to anyone.

Just remember, a license is required for any work on homes or property— electrician, plumber, general contractor, and so on. There are no exceptions, whether you’re building, getting repairs done, or remodeling. A licensed contractor knows the proper procedures and permits needed.

To make this process easier, contact the Home Builders Association of LakeSumter. As executive director, Lisa Templin-Rayborn placed the issue of unlicensed contractors at the top of her priorities.

All the builders participating in the Parade of Homes are vetted, with no

exceptions. Chartered in 1973, HBA of Lake-Sumter includes Lake and Sumter counties. Members of this local association are also members of the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders.

“They must pay dues and have a license,” Templin-Rayborn says. “It’s not just a matter of joining. They have to meet requirements. Associate members include the ancillary businesses like real estate companies, title companies, and so forth.”

To ensure the work done on your home follows proper guidelines, look for a licensed and bonded builder. A bonded contractor purchases a surety bond or a type of insurance policy that protects the homeowner. If the contractor fails to complete the job as required, the bond protects and compensates the owner.

Having these kinds of guarantees is essential. To find a contractor who is

IF I HAD A HAMMER Statistics from the Department of Labor indicate Florida added more construction jobs in 2015 than any other state except California. However, local construction companies say the need far outweighs the demand.

Dr. Diane Culpepper, director of Lake Technical College in Eustis, said the school is taking steps to meet these demands through education.

“When the recession came about, a lot of those tradespeople left. They went to Texas and other places,” Culpepper said. “We’re in the process of putting together a short program that would give students a basic introduction to the construction trade industry.”

The school received a small grant from the Florida Department of Education to fund the program. Culpepper said plans are now to create a 100-hour curriculum with recommendations coming from a local committee made up of construction industry leaders, including members of the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter.

There are also plans to incorporate studies for GED into the program for those who have the need. “Hopefully we can help them see the need for further education by using things like ‘construction math,’ which will give them something they’re interested in. This will help us introduce them to geometry and why it’s important,” Culpepper said. “Whether it’s reading blueprints, technical manuals, or

anything like that, we’ll cover it.”

Presently, Lake Tech offers training in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). This will become a part of the curriculum, which will also include an introduction to electrical, carpentry, plumbing, and other skills for building trades. With the growth of the program, plans are to make it a complete Building Technology Program by 2017. The goal of Lake Tech, as always, is to prepare technicians for work in the community where they live.

Culpepper said the school also has a new curriculum developer to work with the construction leaders so the program fits the needs of local builders and developers and meets education standards.

“We have a small campus in Mascotte, an old elementary school, where the program will be housed. This is great because much of the new growth is occurring in the southern part of Lake County,” Culpepper said.

Right now, a plumbing apprentice program is held at the school, and it is headquarters for the maintenance team for the schoolboard, which Culpepper said they could help staff.

With the aging of those in the building trade, it’s imperative that younger generations step up to take their place. With the implementation of a building trades’ curriculum, Lake Technology College hopes to lay the foundation for success.

licensed and bonded, go to lakesumterhba.com and follow the tips offered for hiring a contractor. You’ll also be able to see and understand what is expected of a licensed contractor.

Verify that your contractor is insured, and don’t be intimidated into signing a contract. You are the head of your home-building project. You are the one in charge who has the ultimate say on decisions. Beware of contractors who offer “good deals” in exchange for free advertising.

“The builders in this area are building themselves back up after the housing crisis,” Templin-Rayborn explains.

“With the excellent leadership team we have, we now have the opportunity to provide great services for local builders.

We’ve seen a lot of growth in the area, and now most of it is planned growth.

Sumter County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country, and there are plans for thousands of new homes in Minneola.”

Most reputable contractors have websites and ready access to information about their business and its quality. Always ask for references. If the contractor is unwilling to provide references, or if the person you call doesn’t provide a good reference, look no further. These red flags mean it’s time to move on in your selection process.

This year’s Parade of Homes takes place Feb. 27 through March 6, featuring a variety of homes in various places to give residents a look at the work of local contractors.

TAKING THE NEXT STEP Being a homeowner has its privileges, but it also means significant responsibilities. Property taxes are due annually and significant penalties can occur with late filing or failure to file.

Property tax is the only major tax common to all 50 states, and it is the oldest tax in the United States. According to polls of Americans, it is the second worst tax, but it has undeniable value to the community where you live.

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The Lake County Property Appraiser recently received an award from the International Association of Assessing Office for its website. The organization called it “a website that is transparent and easily understood.” Carey Baker, who was elected property appraiser of Lake County in 2012, has included information for prospective homebuyers, as well.

“One important item every homeowner should be aware of is what possible exemptions there are to minimize the tax burden,” says Baker. “If you’re a fulltime owner and residence, you get a homestead exemption.

Another exemption available is a possible disability or limited income senior disability.”

Other exemptions found on the website include the military/veterans and widow/widower exemption. Applications must be submitted by March 1 of the

year the homeowner exemption is requested to begin.

Apply by mail, in person at one of the two offices of the Lake County Property

Appraiser, or online for the homestead exemption. Carefully read the instructions regarding the exemption you seek to ensure you do

HELPFUL WEBSITES HOMEBUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF LAKE COUNTY

HOMEADVISOR

www.lakesumterhba.com

www.homeadvisor.com

FLORIDA HOMEBUILDERS ASSOCIATION

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

Publications for homebuyers and homeowners

www.consumer.ftc.gov

www.fhba.com

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOMEBUILDERS

Home improvement articles and tips

Consumer information site

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION To verify professional licenses online

Resources for consumers

www.myfloridalicense.com

www.nahb.org

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES

FREEADVICE Answers for legal question concerning construction

real-estate-law.freeadvice.com/ construction

freshfromflorida.com/DivisionsOffices/Licensing

2016 PARADE OF HOMES Feb. 26 – March 6

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exactly what is required.

For those purchasing a new home in the area, there is a wealth of information in one convenient location.

“Prospective homeowners should consider my website an excellent resource for almost everything that pertains to an individual home. If you’re looking for a particular home, from my website you can find out where the closest school, fire station, police station, or library is,” Baker says.

“You can find out when your trash is picked up or who provides your water and electric. All that information is available on the website for those shopping for a home.”

If you’re thinking of selling your home, Baker’s website can aid in that effort, too. “It can be used to determine the value of your home. We have a feature that shows the values of homes sold in your neighborhood for the past three years,” Baker adds. “You can do your own price comparison.”

Whatever you may encounter while deciding to build or buy a home in Lake or Sumter counties, there are places to find the answers you need.

THE FUTURE OF HOME COMFORT IS NOW!

M&S AIR CONDITIONING AND APPLIANCE SERVICE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Now You Have a Choice: C ENTIRE HOME OR JUST

THE FUTURE OF HOME COMFORT

Mitsubishi Electric ductless cooling and heating technology offers a welcome alternative to the tradit rather than on a central air system, it’s more energy-efficient, more flexible, and easier to install — as that ductless is the fastest growing segment of the American air conditioning and heating market.

Our products reduce energy costs and easily solve problems such as: Hot and Cold Rooms Additions/Renovations Enclosed Patios Homes without Space for Ductwork Larger, Multi-Zone Living Spaces

COOL AND HEAT YOUR ONE ROOM AT A TIME

tional systems we all grew up with. Because it focuses on individual rooms and living spaces rather n by decades of successful use in Europe, Asia, and across the globe. It is not surprising that duct-

ABOUT M&S AIR CONDITIONING M & S Air Conditioning & Appliance Service of Central Florida is owned and operated

by David Macdonald and Steve Dullum. Between the two of them they have over 50 years of combined experience in the HVAC industry.

M & S Air Conditioning is a licensed and insured company.

We offer service, repair, and installation of all brands of heating and air conditioning systems, both residential and commercial grade, as well as all brands of major kitchen and laundry appliances.

STEVE DULLUM

At M & S Air Conditioning & Appliance Service of Central Florida, we strive to offer personalized service. We care about our customers and our commitment is to provide the best service out there. We take pride in our work and complete it in a timely manner. We realize there are many air conditioning companies to choose from — and we are confident that once you choose us, you will be a customer for life.

One of the many ways we offer piece of mind to our customers is by using Ask the Seal which is a third party verification company.

You can rest assured that our employees are regularly background-checked, our licenses and insurance is verified, and our employees are issued photo IDs, so you know who will be at your home working on your equipment.

We do this because many companies out there claim to do background checks, but either do incomplete checks or none at all. Any company can issue an employee badge or email a photo of their employee — but by using third-party verification, you can be secure knowing the technician who shows up to your door is who he says he is.

DAVID MACDONALD

HOW OUR DUCTLESS SYSTEM WORKS Ductless systems pump cooled or heated refrigerant directly to wallor ceiling-mounted air-handling units through small lines. Each room or living space has its own air-handling unit, and each unit has its own wireless electronic temperature control system. Here’s how the system works in a single room application.

INDOOR UNIT uses refrigerant to cool or heat air and quietly streams it where you need it in the living room space.

OUTDOOR UNIT has an inverter-driven heat pump that cools or heats refrigerant and sends it inside to an air handler through small lines.

WIRELESS CONTROL UNIT conveniently allows you to adjust temperature, fan speed, and more… at the touch of a button.

ADVANCED FEATURES

for Greater Comfort, Efficiency and Convenience PUT YOUR COMFORT ON CRUISE CONTROL Thanks to our advanced INVERTER-driven compressor technology, you can achieve consistent temperatures throughout your space while saving energy during both the summer and winter months.

The compressor speed is controlled to maximize efficiency, changing speeds according to the needs of your room(s). Like a car’s cruise control, the system varies the compressor speed, which reduces power consumption for energy savings.

DETECT AND CONTROL TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS Select M-Series indoor units feature our i-see™ Sensor which automatically detects the temperature of troublesome regions closer to the ceiling and the floor. It scans the room and makes adjustments based on the ambient temperature readings. This process ensures that you always enjoy ultimate comfort.

Indoor Unit

HEAT AND LOTS OF IT Refrigerant Lines

Outdoor Unit

The advances in the heating performance of our units are unmatched in the industry. Our available H2i® technology can heat your space effectively even when temperatures outside are down to -13° F. Our Hot Start technology provides hot air from the start with no drafts.

MULTIPLE FILTERS FOR HEALTHIER AIR All indoor models use a sophisticated multi-part filtration system to reduce contaminants such as allergens, viruses and bacteria from the air. This combination of filters provides a healthier breathing environment for the home.

QUIET AS A WHISPER Both the outdoor and indoor units operate quietly.

The indoor units can operate as low as 19dB — that’s quieter than a human whisper.

MULTI-ZONE APPLICATIONS MULTI-ZONE APPLICATIONS

Multi-zone units you to an oasis of comfort Multi-zone units allowallow you to create an create oasis of comfort throughout your whole house house in the rooms you rooms use most.you use most. throughout your whole in the

First Floor

Each room (zone) operates independently Each room (zone) operates independently with its own wireless/wired remote with its own wireless/wired remote control, control, so people in different rooms so people in different rooms can choose can choose the teamperature that the temperature that makes them makes them most comfortable. most comfortable.

Second Floor

THE PERFECT PERFECT THE PERFECT SOLUTION SOLUTION TOTO YOUR TO YOUR COOLING COOLING AND HEATING AND HEATING PROBLEMS PROBLEMS THE SOLUTION YOUR COOLING AND HEATING PROBLEMS High Energy Costs

SING

Hot or Cold Problem Rooms

Renovations and New Homes

Why pay to cool/heat your home all year long

An American Home Comfort Study (AHCS)

You don’t have to install ductwork to make a

A room isn’t really comfortable unless the air

when you only live in a few rooms at a time?

reports that 67 percent of homes in the U.S. have

living space comfortable. Mitsubishi Electric

breathes comfortable. That’s Hotwhy or Mitsubishi Cold Rooms

With Mitsubishi Electric, you can actively

a room that’s too hot in the summer or too cold

ductless solutions require only a 3" opening for

Electric cooling and heating systems use a

condition the rooms you live in while dialing back

in the winter. It’s a common problem with ducted

two refrigerant lines, control wiring and electrical

sophisticated multi-part filter system to reduce

energy costs in the rooms you don’t use. Plus,

forced air systems — one that can be solved

connections. Mitsubishi Electric ductless is the

odors, allergens, viruses and bacteria from the

Mitsubishi Electric’s inverter-driven compressors

quite simply with a Mitsubishi Electric system.

perfect solution for new additions, for renovated

air as it circulates within a room.

automatically adjust to changing conditions to

ϐ

bedrooms and office spaces, for garage and

ϐ

Hybrid filter absorbs odor-causing gases.

ϐ

Blue-enzyme, anti-allergen filter on select

deliver ideal comfort while only using the energy

throughout the room and makes automatic

that is needed.

ϐ

Inverter heating performance is far more efficient than traditional heat pumps.

ϐ ϐ

ϐ

Options include more than 25 ENERGY STAR® qualified models and 9 ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient models.

Installation is as simple as mounting units, connecting the refrigerant lines and making a

basement workshops or studios. And it’s a lifesaver for any home that can’t accommodate

ϐ

No ductwork required, so installation is fast and doesn’t require any messy renovation.

ϐ

models reduces germs, bacteria and viruses

ϐ

and helps trap dust, pollens, mites and

Outdoor units come in a wide variety of capacities, are compact, lightweight and easy to install and camouflage.

ϐ

Attractive enclosures are available to beautify and protect outside refrigerant and electric

Options for single rooms, multiple rooms or your entire home.

Single rooms the power of

ductwork.

few electrical connections.

Single and multi-zone systems available to fit any room or your entire home.

ϐ

adjustments.

Cooling is up to 40% more efficient than standard systems.

Wireless control unit senses the temperature

Allergens and Odors

lines.

ϐ

other particles that plague allergy sufferers.

ϐ

With regular cleaning, filters can last up to 10 years.

ϐ

Kitchens

Filters are easy to clean and maintain — you can do it in a matter of minutes.

Indoor units can be installed anywhere in the room — on the ceiling, on the walls or on floor.

Living Rooms / Media Room

I’m very pleased with my Mitsubishi system.

Installation and services by M&S was great!

Single rooms can now have SINGLE-ZONE APPLICATIONS ultimate comfort with the power of precise control Single rooms can now have ultimate comfort with power precise control over hot and cold spots. over hotthe and coldofspots

Living Rooms / Media Rooms

GLE-ZONE APPLICATIONS can now have ultimate comfort with precise control over hot and cold spots.

ms

Master Bedrooms

‘‘

Bonus Rooms / Guest Rooms

The bedroom system works great at desired temperature and lanai system removes humidity problems… the room is now enjoyable.

I was very pleased with the quality of service and installation from M&S.

Bonus Rooms / Guest Rooms

—MRS. CASWELL

Mitsubishi system works great,

Sunrooms

Master Bedrooms

—MRS. BRANDONSIO

‘‘

very pleased with Jeff, our installer.

—MR. AUDETTE

I love my Mitsubishi cooling/heating I never leave my lanai! I had excellent system. installation service from M&S employees.

—MRS. PARAVANO

‘‘

Kitchens

‘‘

Sunrooms

‘‘ ‘‘

Hot or Cold Rooms

‘‘

SINGLE-ZONE APPLICATIONS

‘‘

At M&S Air Conditioning, we are passionate about providing our customers with world-class air conditioning and heating repairs, sales, and installation.

We are family-owned, licensed, and fully insured, with more than 50 years in the HVAC industry.

You can trust that we will be here today, as well as tomorrow, to take care of your home comfort needs.

It is our commitment to provide you with quality service at the best possible price. We value your business and strive to always keep our prices competitive while keeping your best interest in the forefront of our business.

We feel confident that we will have the best solution for all your heating and cooling needs.

We specialize in Residential and Commercial heating and cooling solutions, whether you are a homeowner

or a property manager, we’d like the opportunity to earn your trust.

We repair and service all brands of equipment and we are proud to service Lake, Sumter, and South Marion Counties. Based in Fruitland Park, we are just minutes away from The Villages, Clermont, Eustis and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Our pledge to you is to provide the most honest, reliable and affordable air conditioning & appliance service in Florida. Should we fall short, then our pledge to you is to do everything possible to correct the situation.

Your call is very important to us, so we are ready to receive it 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

M & S AIR CONDITIONING & APPLIANCE SERVICE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, LLC. Licensed & Insured

Lake/Sumter: 352-314-5004 Marion: 352-307-6722 David vid Macdonald

msaccfl.com CAC1814193 CAC1817242

Steve Dullum

THE 6th ANNUAL 2016 LAKE-SUMTER

New Home&Remodeling Expo Saturday, March 5th, 8am to 3pm, Leesburg National Guard Armory In Historic Downtown Leesburg ~ 400 W Meadow Street ~ Admission is FREE and Parking is FREE

Over 50 Builders, Remodelers, and Suppliers on Display!

ALSO AT THE EXPO, GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING SEMINARS BY

Jonathan Squires “THE BAREFOOT GARDENER”

The 2016 Lake-Sumter New Home&Remodeling Expo has something for everyone, so bring the whole family!

We have over 50 Builders, Remodelers and Suppliers displaying their products and services at this year’s New Home & Remodeling Expo. They will each be giving away door prizes throughout the day. You must register at their booth first.

The American Heroes Walk - Register and take a lap around Veterans Memorial Park, from 8am to 3pm. Ro-Mac Lumber & Supply will donate $5 per person for the first 2,000 people to complete the walk, to Habitat’s Veterans Village Project. It’s FREE to participate.

Veterans BBQ Lunch and a raffle for a GAS BBQ GRILL giveaway - sponsored by the Home Builders Association of LakeSumter. All proceeds go to the Veterans Village Project.

Music and Prizes and Cash — Oh My!

Jonathan Squires is the owner of Just Perfect Plants and a recognized lawn and garden expert.

Jonathan will be presenting two free seminars at the 2016 New Home & Remodeling Expo at 10am and Noon on Saturday, March 5th in front of the Expo. If last year’s crowd is any indication, you will want to come early to get a good place.

Jonathan will be presenting seminars on The Incredible Edible Garden, utilizing vegetable plants as a part of the home’s landscaping, and No Lawn Landscape where he will show homeowners how to have a beautiful yard without a traditional lawn. Jonathan will be available all day at the Expo to answer all of your gardening and landscaping questions. He will also be displaying some of the newest plant varieties available from Just Perfect Plants.

Jonathan Squires is a renowned expert on Florida-Friendly gardening and his techniques for weed and pest control help protect Florida’s sensitive ecosystem. The Barefoot Gardner believes chemicals are to be used very sparingly and he will show you how to enhance and protect your plants naturally. This is one of the area’s most popular seminars and it’s FREE to attend.

- LHS Jazz Band performing 9am - 2pm - Over 50 Door Prizes to give away -

$1,000 CA$H Grand Prize Drawing at 3pm!

The 2016 Lake-Sumter New Home & Remodeling Expo is hosted by Ro-Mac Lumber & Supply, along with Our Media Partners and Sponsors

For More Information contact Rebecca Ballash at at 352.787.4545 ext-325 or go to RomacLumber.com

On the

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

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On the scene // the to-do list

FEBRuar r 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

EVENTS FEB. 3

LEESBURG MARDI GRAS—REVERSE DRAW The final dash for King Rex and Queen Divine votes occurs this evening. Raffle winners announced and prizewinners revel publicly in their stupendous luck.

Held at the lovely Opera House in downtown Leesburg, it’s sure to be a night of good fun. Get your fill of food, drink, and dancing. No cover charge for this event; save your money for raffle tickets.

For more information, call 352.365.0053. 6 p.m. 108 S. Fifth St., Leesburg.

FEB. 5

LEESBURG MARDI GRAS—CROWNING EVENT In its 19th year, this ball is the center of Leesburg Mardi Gras festivities.

King Rex and Queen Divine are crowned with plenty of pomp at the Leesburg National Guard Armory.

This is a formal affair, so dress with plenty of flair.

For more information, call 352.365.0053. 7 p.m.

400 W. Meadow St., Leesburg.

FEB. 6

19TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS— PARTY IN THE STREET The jazziest street party this side of Lake Pontchartrain comes to Main Street Leesburg for the 19th consecutive year.

Twelve hours of parades, beads, and performers.

There will be food vendors, live music, and all of your friends. Make sure you don’t miss it! For more information, visit leesburgmardigras.com or call 352.365. 0053. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Main St., Leesburg.

FEB. 6

12TH ANNUAL TAVARES AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL & PARADE A true celebration, this local tradition honors the contributions and achievements of African Americans in and for our community. There will be food and vendors of all sorts. Come to Wooton Park and spend your day at this free cultural event. For more information, call 352.406.9608. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 200 S. Rockingham Ave., Tavares.

FEB. 11

LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING That! Company has a new location, and it’s ribbon-cutting time. Join local dignitaries and the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce for the grand

opening of the Internet marketing company’s new site. Call the chamber at 352.787.2131 for more information. 5 to 7 p.m., 4046 Via Del Medico, Leesburg.

FEB. 13

“A LURE FOR LOVE” PET EXPO AND FUNDRAISER Mount Dora’s Elizabeth Evans Parks is going to the dogs...and their owners couldn’t be happier.

This is the second year Paws for Mount Dora is downtown. This year it features a Swift Paws automated dog lure course and an agility course.

It’s a free event with food and other vendors.

Visit their website, pawsformountdora.com for information, and to see which downtown establishments welcome pooches during the event. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 100 00 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora.

FEB. 12

Winefest XXVI As if you need a reason to raise a glass, Lakeridge Winery is hosting their beloved wine fest, a three-day procession of the best our area has to offer. Come try their award-winning wines.

Lakeridge events always have a great selection of food and showcase unique artisans. Winery tours are available during events and since it includes tastings, don’t neglect having a looksee. Entry comes with a $2 donation. For more information, call 352.394.8627 or email jiceberg@lakeridgewinery.com. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 19239 U.S. Hwy. 27 N., Clermont.

music at the Trout Lake Nature Center. Tickets are $50 per attendee. To register, go to universe. com/rookeryFeb.2016 or for more info, call 352.357.7536. 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 520 E. County Road 44, Eustis.

FEB. 13

SUNSET ON TROUT LAKE Looking for an easy way to spend a latee winter night?

Come watchh the birds return to roost ost against a beautiful Trout Lake sunset. The bonfire and a ne will keep glass of wine you nice andd toasty.

Follow up with a good meal set to Florida folk

FEB. 18

9TH ANNUAL TRACTOR SHOW & PULL Paquette’s Museum has planned three days of tractor-related fun. There is something for everyone at this event that feels like an old-timey county fair with tractor competitions and frying pan tosses, among other fun activities. A Neil Diamond tribute concert and a barbecue dinner are also on the weekend’s roster. Tickets are $15 daily. For a full look at the event, visit stewsihstuff.com or call 352.728.3588.

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 615 S. Whitney Rd., Leesburg.

r ry

show coming to you from Mount Dora’s initiative to bring nationally recognized live entertainment.

Tickets are $25 - $75. For more information, visit mountdoralive.com. 7 p.m. 520 N. Baker St., Mount Dora.

FEB. 18

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Business After Hours is hosted and sponsored by Occupational HealthLRMC. This is a great way to network and meet people from other area businesses. Call the chamber at 352.787.2131 for more information.

5:30 to 7 p.m., 550 E Dixie Ave., on the campus of LRMC, Leesburg.

FEB. 25

LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SUNRISE BREAKFAST The monthly Sunrise Breakfast is today! Don’t miss a dynamic speaker and good fellowship with local businesspersons.

Call the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce at 352.787.2131 or visit www.leesburgchamber. com for more information. 7 to 8:30 a.m. at Leesburg Community Building, 201 E Dixie Ave., Leesburg.

MUSIC+THEATRE FEB. 2

AMBROSIA IN CONCERT This event may make a great date-night surprise for the “biggest part of you.” Take a dose of nostalgia and join the popular 70s rock band at Mount Dora’s Community Building. Another great

FEB. 3

CALENDAR GIRLS Sometimes a good cause requires you to bare all and Calendar Girls is a play just about that. It’s based on the true story of a group of women who disregarded what might be scandalous to pose nude for a calendar that benefited leukemia research. The Bay Street Players invite you to question what heroism looks like. Join them on Feb. 3 or check out some of their other dates by going to baystreetplayers. org. Tickets are $18 to $21.

For more information, call 352.357.7777 or email boxoffice@ baystreetplayers.org.

8 p.m. 109 N. Bay St., Eustis.

FEB. 4

FUNNY MONEY You may remember the 2006 Chevy Chase film, but this farce was originally a British stage comedy written by Ray Cooney.

It’s a classic case of the switcheroo. After Henry Perkins finds his briefcase holding his cheese and chutney sandwich replaced with one stuffed with money, mayhem and hilarity ensue. The IceHouse Theatre invites gh you for a good laugh throughout February. ary. For n, call more information, 352.383.4616 or email heatree. info@icehousetheatre. com 8 p.m. 1100 N. Unser St., Mountt Dora.

FEB. 18

FLORIDA LAKES SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SCOTTISH FANTASY An unparalleled night of music is coming your way.

Fittingly hosted at St. Patrick Catholic Church, the performance features violin virtuoso Konstantin Dimitrov. Tickets are $42 in advance, $45 at the door, and $15 per student. For more information, call 352.589.1500. 7:30 p.m.

6803 Old Hwy. 441 S. (Highland St.), Mount Dora

FEB. 25

A CARPENTERS TRIBUTE Paquette’s invites the public to this night of music from days gone by. Celebrate one unforgettable voice and one unforgettable duo with the sounds of The Carpenters Once More.

From the debut of this dynamic duo to the last of their public performances, this heartwarming show highlights hits like “Yesterday Once More.”

Tickets are only $14. For more information, call 352.728.3588. 6 p.m.

615 S. Whitney Road, Leesburg.

FEB. 6

Bird Count & Nature Walk It’s great weather for a nature outing! Join expert birders Bob and Mary Wexler on this month’s bird survey at Trout Lake Nature Center. See nature at its finest! Florida during the cooler months is a perfect time to see birds in large numbers. Catch them before they leave in the spring. The duo has a lot to share about patterns and local wildlife.

For more information, call 352.357.7536 or email tlnc. info@gmail.com. 8 a.m. 520 E. County Road 44, Eustis.

ARTS+EXHIBITS FEB. 6

LADY LAKE ART IN THE PARK Join the City of Lady Lake for a two-day showcase of local artists. This event is at Veteran’s Park. Look for the log cabin they call the red caboose. Browse the booths that display fine art and excellent craftsmanship. You’re sure to find a treasure.

Food vendors and live entertainment complete the experience. For more information, call 352.344.3440. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Veteran’s Pa Park, U.S. Hwy. 27/441, Lady Lake.

FEB. 12

39TH ANNUAL LEESBURG ART FESTIVAL It’s been almost four decades since The Leesburg Center for the Arts introduced this beloved cultural event.

Come be a part of the tradition and enjoy beautiful downtown Leesburg. It’s a two-day affair with free admission.

For more information, call 352.365.0232. 10 a. m. - 5 p.m. Towne Square, Leesburg.

FEB. 19

RENNINGER’S ANTIQUE EXTRAVAGANZA I’m certain you haven’t been to anything bigger.

With more than 800 booths, it’s Florida’s biggest antique show.

If you’re looking for a treasure, odds are in your favor. Vendors come from all over the U. S. offering varieties that ensure finding unique pieces. Friday to Sunday at Renninger’s Antique Center.

For more information, call 352.383.8393. 8 a.m.

- 5 p.m. 20651 U.S. Hwy. 441, Mount Dora.

FEB. 19

GUN SHOW The gun show has come back to the Lake County Fairgrounds. This yearly event puts you in front of sellers and experienced firearm experts. Concealed weapons classes are offered both days for $69 and last about two-and-ahalf hours. Entry each day is $5. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 101 County Road 452, Eustis.

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INCONCERT

Loretta Lynn PHOTO COURTESY OF CMT

DATE

TIME

ARTIST

VENUE

2/4 2/5 2/5 2/6 2/7 2/8 2/10 2/11 2/11 2/12 2/12 2/13 2/13 2/14 2/14 2/14 2/15 2/17 2/18 2/18 2/18 2/19 2/19 2/20 2/20 2/21 2/21 2/22 2/22 2/24 2/25 2/25 2/26 2/26 2/26 2/26 2/27 2/27 2/27 2/28 2/29 3/2

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

9 p.m.

9 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

8 p.m.

9 p.m.

8 p.m.

9 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

9 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

8 p.m.

9 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

8 p.m.

9 p.m.

5 and 8 p.m.

8 p.m.

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7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Tyler Haney Three Tenors Plus One Liquor Box Liquor Box Jon Cabrera Smooth Country Band Jeff Whitfield Tyler Haney Kelly Jarrard Kings County Chicken Train Da Boys Chicken Train Dennis Gallo Peter Nero Defenders of Daisies Smooth Country Band Jeff Whitfield Neil Diamond Tribute with Keith Allynn Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra Kelly Jarrard Roxx Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra Kings County Roxx Jon Cabrera Defenders of Daisies Loretta Lynn Smooth Country Band Jeff Whitfield Tyler Haney Kelly Jarrard Travis Tritt Grateful Hearts Mark Z Missin’ Piston Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals Da Boys Missin’ Piston Jon Cabrera Smooth Country Band Jeff Whitfield

1884 Restaurant and Bar, Eustis The Sharon, The Villages Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Olympia Banquets and Events, Mount Dora Ruby Street Grille, Tavares 1884 Restaurant and Bar, Eustis Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares The Sharon, The Villages Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Olympia Banquets and Events, Mount Dora Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Paquette’s Farmall Tractor Museum, Leesburg St. Patrick Catholic Church, Mount Dora Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Family Christian Center, Clermont Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Ruby Street Grille, Tavares The Sharon, The Villages Olympia Banquets and Events, Mount Dora Ruby Street Grille, Tavares 1884 Restaurant and Bar, Eustis Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Mt. Dora Community Center The Sharon, The Villages 1884 Restaurant and Bar, Eustis Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg The Sharon, The Villages Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Shamrock Lounge, Leesburg Ruby Street Grille, Tavares Olympia Banquets and Events, Mount Dora Ruby Street Grille, Tavares

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

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Kelly Jarrard

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Peter Nero PHOTO BY DONNA BILLINGSLEY, COURTESY OF THE SHARON.COM

Travis Tritt

HOOPS Life

HOOPS Life is a fun and challenging youth program that uses the sport of basketball to bridge home, school, and life. From the child who has never dribbled a ball to a player with experience; The HOOPS Life program is designed to introduce how a team works with each individual involved becoming their best.

Sound too good to be true? Our HOOPS Life families have shared their surprise in how much impact that this program has made, not just on the court, but more importantly off the court.

Is it right for your child? Our HOOPS Life kids have shared, ‘The coaches make it fun and support us in getting to the next level. Each season we make more and more friends and enjoy playing together’.

What are the possibilities for your child? The HOOPS Life program success is based on relationships. Our coaching staff prides itself on getting to know each player and allows them to be themselves. They do this by assisting them with personal challenges and goals, at home, school, and life. Some of the triumphs our players have experienced are confidence, communication, time management, conflict resolution, emotional management, leadership, just to name a few.

Imagine the possibilities of your child being in a 12 week youth program that provides VALUES, EXPERIENCE, AND TRANSFORMATION. What would that do for your child and what would that do for your family?

(352) 253 - HOOP (4667)

info@hoopslifeusa.com

2 LOCATIONS BOYS & GIRLS AGES 7-14 March 14th - June 11th TAVARES HOOPS 15839 OLD US HWY 441

CLERMONT THE ARC 3700 S. HWY 27

www.hoopspatburke.com

LOCAL TALENT

LOIS BRANDT WEBER

THE MEDIEVAL ART OF QUILLING STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

Quilling is an ancient art form that dates back to the 15th century and may have started even earlier. For local artist Lois Brandt Weber, it’s a way to express herself and share her artistry with the world. However, that wouldn’t have happened if they hadn’t decided to end tap dancing class at Hawthorne at Leesburg.

“The gals here had been tap dancing for so long that at the end of the season, they said they weren’t going to do it anymore,” Lois said. “I knew I had an hour every day and I wondered what I was going to do. I went by the quilling room and I remembered I’d done that.

So when I went back up North, I went to Ben Franklin Crafts and Frame Shop and bought all the papers in all the colors. In six months I had 35 pictures done.”

The art of paper filigree, or quilling, is rolling or coiling thin strips of paper into various shapes and using the tiny pieces to create a design. Like doing tapestry, it was considered a fine art for the women of the 18th century. Because the designs are made with paper, not many of them are still around today, except in museums in New England and New York City. In an effort to have the art last longer, artists today use acid-free paper.

Lois always had an artistic nature.

She took classes in elementary and high school and got back into art as the mother of five children. “The doctor said the kids are driving you crazy, get out of

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the house. I took a class in oil painting at the YWCA, which was two blocks away,” Lois said.

With growing children, however, that venture didn’t last as long as the doctor hoped. She was soon busy being ‘Mom’s Taxi Service.’ Lois is also an avid dancer.

She did clogging and tap dancing.

“I taught country couples ballroom dancing, and at one point, line dancing.

I’m a dancer from way back when.”

Unfortunately, arthritis put an end to dancing for Lois, though she still serves as a mentor for the clogging group at Hawthorne. Painful wrists kept her from being able to knit or crochet, but the finger work involved in quilling is still manageable, and she generally works six to eight hours a day on her quilling. At 81, she’s not able to go to craft shows like she once did, though she still does the Leesburg Partnership’s Christmas House.

In addition to making ornaments, shadow boxes, and pictures of all sizes, Lois makes all kinds of jewelry— necklaces, earrings, designs in watch faces, bracelets, and pins. Lately, she has been duplicating designs from quilts for her ornaments and jewelry. She proudly displays her “no-man” bracelets that are easy to put on without assistance. They are wraparound and made with elastic.

Her jewelry is available at Gallery East

Art Center in Belleview.

Lois does her work as Ladybug Creations, and every piece she does has a little red ladybug on it somewhere. She received best in show at the national quilling conventions three times. “When I won best in show, others were doing butterflies, but they did them all in a row, like specimen. I did mine in 3-D on a field of green.”

The last piece she entered for competition was called Butterflies on Purple Thistle.

“I said if this one wins, I’m giving it to the church because God gave it to me, and I’m giving it back,” Lois said. The 3-D picture hangs in Lakes and Hills Covenant Church in Howey-in-the-Hills, where Lois attends.

She truly enjoys making unusual pieces for family members, too. For her grandson, who is a commercial pilot, Lois did a Hat in the Ring plane from World War I, and for her granddaughter, the advanced math teacher who married on Pi Day, she did the wedding announcement in a frame with roses and a pi symbol. There’s also the grandson who loves “Star Wars” and got R2D2 and C3PO in metallic paper.

Lois leads the classes in quilling at Hawthorne now. “I keep teaching and passing it on. Things just fall into place when I’m working.”

Our team… …has the highest level of education and skill. …uses top-notch technology and equipment. …provides the best possible care to our patients. …is getting bigger.

Meet the newest team members.

DR. ROBERT L. PURDON

Dr. Robert Purdon, a radiation oncologist for 30 years, loves being part of RBOI. While he feels honored to offer patients advanced technologies and techniques, the most rewarding part of the job is interacting and forming genuine relationships with patients.

DR. HERMAN FLINK

We’re excited to announce the addition of Dr. Herman Flink, a radiation oncologist for nearly 40 years who is board-certified in both radiology and radiation oncology. He completed his residency and fellowship at Johns Hopkins University.

THE VILLAGES 352.259.2200 OCALA 352.732.0277 TIMBER RIDGE 352.861.2400 INVERNESS 352.726.3400 LECANTO 352.527.0106 RBOI.COM

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

THE THRILL OF THE

PULL

Three days of tractor pulling, parades, prizes, and plain ol’ fun at Paquette’s.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

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bought a professional sled. He uses it up there in the summertime, and we use it here in the wintertime.”

The tractors compete in various class levels: stock antique, super antique, open gear, farm stock, modified farm, open gear farm, and V-8 modified. The tractors pull a set weight in the sled.

When a tractor makes it to the end of the 100-meter track that’s considered

You’ll find a carnival atmosphere at Paquette Historical Farmall Museum this month. Days will be filled with music, food, games, and a tractor pull.

“We’ll have pulling for three days,” owner Stewart Paquette said. “There will be music during the day, a barbecue dinner on Friday night, the antique car club, and an antique truck show.”

The museum is Stewart’s passion. Ask him almost anything about the famous International Harvester tractors and he can tell you about it. “It was pretty much the tractor of Florida,” Stewart said.

“Until we had the big freeze in the ’80s, they were all over this area. They went out of business in ’85.”

Stewart became interested in International Harvester (IH) because of its history and longevity. Back in 1830, Cyrus Hall McCormick field demonstrated his version of a horsedrawn reaper, which was patented in 1834. He and his brother, Leander, moved to Chicago and started McCormick Harvesting Machine Company. Famed financier, J.P. Morgan, merged with the company and it became International Harvester, which lasted until they began experiencing deep losses in the 1980s.

Today, collectors around the world keep the tractors visible and, like Stewart, rebuilt and working.

This three-day event provides a great opportunity to enjoy not only exciting events like the tractor pull, but the amazing ladies’ frying pan toss, cornhole beanbag toss, a bouncy house, daily tractor parades, and lots of other fun-filled activities. There will be vendors, kettle corn, a food truck with Mexican food, ice cream, and many other goodies.

The ladies’ frying pan toss is always an enjoyable event. “They used castiron skillets, and they kept breaking,” Stewart said. “So we made steel ones.

They’re all the same size so everybody has an equal chance, and we give out prizes. There will be prizes and trophies for everything.”

Stewart thinks the antique truck show and display of antique cars should be of special interest to history buffs. The trucks are part of Vintage Trucks of Florida and include everything from semis to farm trucks to fire trucks and their apparatus.

Though it’s not a sanctioned event, the tractor pull is governed by National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) rules.

“We have a track and a sled, which is like those used in events in Inverness and Ocala,” Stewart said. “We didn’t have a professional pull in the beginning, so our events were just local drivers. We got together with a guy from Ohio and

a “full pull.” More weight is added to the sled and competitors who moved past 300 feet have a “pull off,” and the winner is the tractor that pulls the sled the longest distance.

Jennifer Sidelinger, Stewart’s niece, runs the offices of the museum. The store offers an assortment of parts for IH vehicles; they receive orders from places across the pond like the United Kingdom and as far away as Australia and Japan.

There’s plenty of parking for cars and for self-contained campers. “We have places for tents and RVs,” Jennifer said.

“We’ll have new events and activities every day,” Stewart said.

“Normally it’s $15 to tour the museum, but that’s included in the $10 daily ticket for this event.”

Don’t miss the ninth annual Historical Farmall Tractor Show & IH Chapter 27 State Show, Feb. 18–20, 8 am. – 5 p.m., at Paquette’s Historical Farmall Museum, 615 S. Whitney Road, off U.S. Highway 27. For information, visit stewsihstuff.com or call 352.728.3588.

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

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DAYTONA RISES TO FAMILY FUN The Daytona 500 is an event of mythical proportions, especially with all the new “Daytona Rising” changes at the International Speedway. Even if you are not a racing fan, you most likely know something about this annual meetup of NASCAR competitors. Although racing will permeate almost every corner of Daytona Beach on Feb. 21, the city has a lot more for visitors than just the “Great American Race.”

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: TONY DESANTIS+PROVIDED BY DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

L

et’s just get this out of the way first: A trip to Daytona Beach isn’t complete without a tour of the International Speedway—especially this year as the world’s first “motorsports stadium” has just been unveiled. The location is the same (after all, you can’t miss it when you are headed to the beach), but a $400 million reimagining of the iconic Speedway has turned it into more than a racing venue. It’s a small city within itself, complete with its own solar plant and enough steel to represent one percent of the entire U.S. steel production.

Promoted as “Daytona Rising,” the new construction on the speedway began in July 2013 and was completed

last month in time for the 2016 Rolex 24. Changes to the 58-year-old structure include five expanded “injectors,” the 21st century name for the redesigned entrances that lead fans to a series of escalators and elevators. They are then transported to three different concourse levels, each featuring spacious social areas, or “neighborhoods,” along the nearly mile-long frontstretch. New, wider, and more comfortable seats accommodate 101,500 fans along with twice as many restrooms and three times as many concession stands.

“The International Speedway is much more of a social experience now,” says Lori Campbell Baker, Daytona Beach’s director of public relations.

“It’s also more than the World Center of Racing…it’s now the World Center of Entertainment.”

In addition to racing and other events, the speedway will host the inaugural “Country 500” music festival May 27– 29 featuring some of the top names in country music, including Luke Bryan, Kid Rock, Lady Antebellum, Willie Nelson, and dozens of others. Three huge performance stages—all specially designed and built for the festival—will be set on the infield.

And that infield is something to see

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up close and personal. A 30-minute speedway tour by shuttle is available ($16, adults; $10, ages 6-12), but my husband and I opted for the 90-minute all access tour ($23, adults; $17, ages 6-12). If your time allows, the extra $7 is worth the price because you can exit the shuttle and get a behindthe-scenes view of the International Speedway. I must admit I’ve never been to a NASCAR event, but touring the Daytona International Speedway was a cultural experience I will not forget. It also laid the groundwork for understanding and appreciating how many of the city’s other attractions relate to the racing tradition.

For example, Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the Ponce De Leon Lighthouse, is a landmark not just

TRIP

TIP

because it was built in 1887. Early stock car races took place along a 4.1mile stretch from Ormond Beach to the lighthouse. Today, the Inlet Light Station is on the National Register of Historic Places and is surrounded by several dwellings that explain life as a lighthouse keeper in the 1800s.

Climb the 203 steps to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of the inlet and Daytona Beach. Take a deep breath of salty air, release all of your tensions and just imagine what it looked like when those drivers came hauling down the beach.

Within walking distance of Lighthouse Point Park is the Marine Science Center, where youngsters as well as the youngat-heart can explore the area’s diverse ecosystems, touch stingrays, and learn

If the boardwalk area is too noisy for you, head just a couple of miles south on A1A to Daytona Shores, where beaches are less crowded and the race car drivers often stay. The Shores Resort, where you might bump into a few of the drivers and crews, offers relaxing amenities, such as its nightly “S’mores at the Shores.” Sit around the fire pits with your own s’mores kit provided by the hotel—a great treat on a cool February night. The Shores also features a gallery of historic racing photos that will surely bring back memories for longtime fans.

about the bird rehabilitation program in Volusia County.

The Marine Science Center is just one example of how Daytona Beach is a family friendly destination—even when it’s too cool to sunbathe on “America’s Original Beach,” as the folks in Daytona call it.

Take advantage of winter’s less-thanideal beach weather and head into town. Tourists often fail to discover the city’s world-class museums located across the Halifax River on Nova Road.

The newest offering is the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum that showcases paintings spanning nearly 200 years of

Florida history from the 1800s into the new millennium. Well-known artists John James Audubon, Thomas Hart Benton, and N.C. Wyeth are among those who traveled to Florida to paint, and their works are displayed in the unique cracker-style facility.

Located in the same 90-acre nature preserve as the Brown Museum is Daytona Beach’s Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS), which houses American, African, and Cuban art collections, as well as a prehistoric Florida gallery where a giant ground sloth skeleton hovers over visitors. We elected to visit MOAS late in the day so

we could stay for the electrifying laser show in the museum’s planetarium.

The state-of-the-art astronomy facility features dynamic and educational programing and a rocking light show with music.

One of Daytona’s “sweetest attractions” is the Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory, where free 20-minute tours are offered Monday through Saturday on the hour. Located on South Beach Street, the factory is known for high quality, handmade chocolates made fresh daily.

Of course, no trip to Daytona Beach is complete without a stroll or two along the famous Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, a combination of history and fun. The historic bandshell is the site for seasonal weekend concerts and special events while the Joyland Amusement Center is the place for family Go-Kart races. Take time to explore the boardwalk’s historic markers that offer lasting tributes to races of the past.

Seeing all Daytona Beach has to offer in a weekend is a race to the finish, but we gave it our best try. And the good news: it was just a trial run until our next visit.

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On the scene // Hi, society!

WE’RE IN BUSINESS There’s no shortage of wonderful businesses in Lake County. Those companies and their products were on full display at the 2nd annual Business Expo, held at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora. Not only did attendees have an opportunity to interact with business owners; they also enjoyed food and drinks. The free event was organized by the Tavares Chamber of Commerce and the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce.

TARIN LAWRENCE, CIERRA JACKSON AND GINO MORALES

ANN MAN AND SUSAN LYNN

PHILLIP BOWMAR

GLORIA SAVANNAH-AUSTIN ANGILA CHAMBLISS AND TIM PICCIRILLO

BRYAN FETTER AND ORLANDO GREEN

ROBIN AUSTIN AND LESLIE LIGHTBOURNE

ELIZEBETH CLARK AND RUTH BRUNNER

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PHOTOS: AUBREY AKERS

JOANN KELLER ARNP

Together we can make a brighter future.

The Miller Grimes Group Financial Advisors SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. 352.227.5085 352.561.3393 millergrimes@suntrust.com

For 17 years, The Miller Grimes Group has been helping clients make the most of their financial situation. That experience, paired with the broad range of products and solutions offered

by SunTrust Investment Services, will help them develop and implement a personalized investment strategy for each of their clients. Because their goal, just like ours, is to help you shine.

Investment and Insurance Products: Are not FDIC or any other Government Agency Insured • Are not Bank Guaranteed • May Lose Value Securities, insurance (including annuities) and other investment products and services are offered by SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., an SEC registered investment adviser and broker-dealer, member FINRA, SIPC, and a licensed insurance agency.

SunTrust Bank, Member FDIC. ©2015 SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust and How can we help you shine? are federally registered service marks of SunTrust Banks, Inc.

On the scene // Hi, society!

POP THE CORK Main Street Leasing recently celebrated the arrival of an exhibit called “escherick to NAKASHIMA,” with a champagne reception at the Modernism Museum. The event, which provided support for the culture of fine arts, crafts, and education in Mount Dora features dignitaries such as David Rago, Suzanne Perrault, and John Sallo of “Antique Roadshow” along with Nakashima expert, Robert Aibel. Paul Eisenhauer, former director of the Wharton Esherick Museum was also a guest.

JULIETTE DAVIS, JOHN SOLLO, DAVID RAGO, PAUL IESENHAUR, KEN MAZIK, DONNA BROWN, ROBERT AIBEL, SUZANNE PERRAULT AND LARRY BAKER

KEN MAZIK AND PAUL EISENHANER

(CHIEF OF POLICE) JOHN AND MAUREEN O’GRADY

JOSH AIBEL AND ROBERT AIBELA COHEN JOHN SOLLO

MAYOR CATHY HOECHST AND BRET LIVINGSTON SUZANNE PERRAULT AND MMERRY HADDEN

MICHELL MIDDLETON AND JULIETTE DAVIS

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PHOTOS: JARROD CLARK

(PIANO PLAYER) JAMES POWELL

On the scene // Hi, society!

A ‘STRONG’ COMMITMENT A large crowed gathered as King Rex and Queen Divine candidates of the Leesburg Mardi Gras showcased their unique talents while vying for votes. The “Talent Party” event held outside the Leesburg Partnership LINDA SHEPHARD-MILLER AND building included a cash bar, dancing and buffet. JULIE ROBINSON-LUEALLEN DEAN SIMMONS, AUBREY AKERS, AUSTIN SIMMONS, DEAN SIMMONS, AND DAVID BOOTH

ALLAN SEABROOK AND JORDAN HAWKINS CARMAN CULLEN-BATT, CORY GIBBS, STEPHANIE STRONG, AND DEAN SIMMONS

STANLEY GETTY, ANDREW ENTWISTLE, JAMES CALLAHAN, AND GREG SHAFFER

TOM GRIZZARD, TED WOLFE, AND MARK BRIONEZ LISA STRONG, LORI STRONG RICKETSON, AND STEPHANIE STRONG

PHOTOS: AUBREY AKERS AND LYNNE KELLY

BARBARA WITSON SMITH, DOUG MAJOR, ROSEANNE BRANDEBURG, AND MARIAH DELGADO

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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.

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

Gregory Prevatt, CLTC, CFP® Nicole Silberstein Client Service Associate nicole.silberstein@morganstanley.com

Senior Vice President Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor gregory.prevatt@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. © 2015. 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. CRC 1386730 01/16

On the scene // Hi, society!

STRUT YOUR MUTT Pooches with pizazz walked the runway at the Eustis Community Center in the Strut Your Mutt Fashion Show to raise money for the Lake County Animal Services. Every breed and trend were represented. From Labs in jerseys to poodles in – ahem – poodle shirts. Let’s just say the catwalk went to the dogs.

SARA WATTINS, JESSICA WHITEHOUSE AND JOSHUA PROCTOR

BOB AND BONNIE FIELD ELLEN TIDWELL, BARBRA THOMPSON AND PETE CRAFT

WITTNEY LUCKART, LISA RICHARDSON AND MICHELLE BALLINGS ANNA AND STEVE ZITNICK WITH MEL JOANN HOLLAND, JANE STROPES HORBAL AND GENEVIEVE MATOS AND MARY RHODES

J SCOTT BERRY

MICHAEL MCDUFFIE AND PENNY JENNESS BOBBY BAKER AND JERRY COBBS

KAREN AND CHIEF THE BOXER

NATALIE HEDBERG ANNMARIE FINNEGAN

PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

ED AND MICHAEL MARGIE SMITH MAYOR HOLLAND

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E YEARS OF S TY

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Founder of TriCounty Orthopaedics.

Joint Replacement Therapy, Past Director of Total Joint Program at Albert EEinstein Medical Cent ter, Philadelphia Center,

1585 Santa Barbara Blvd., Suite B, The Villages tricountypodiatry.net // 352.259.1919 MEDICAL & SURGICAL TREATMENT OF: • Bunions and Hammertoes • Corns • Morton’s Neuromas • Ingrown Nails and Warts • Heel and Arch Pain • Thick, Painful Toenails • Foot Injuries • Diabetic & Geriatric Foot Care • Sports Medicine • Orthotics • Diabetic Shoes • Numbness/Tingling of Feet

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FOCUSING ON YOUR EYECARE NEEDS FOR 29 YEARS! 1128 Bichara Blvd., The Villages Dr. Albert R. Ducharme

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Dr. James K. Berry

352.728.8318 BeaconAdvancedEyecare.com VILLAGES LOCATION GOLF CART ACCESSIBLE

THE PRIORITY IS THE PATIENT, NOT THE ILLNESS Dr. Tarek Bakdash believes compassion and caring are essential parts of any diagnosis.

Tarek Bakdash, MD is not just a neurologist, he is also a compassionate, conscientious, caring human being who believes that treating a patient is so much more than dealing with an illness. Dr. Bakdash’s philosophy is to treat each patient with the same care he would give to his own family member.

“In my religious belief, saving one soul is like saving the entire humanity,” Dr. Bakdash said. “That is why when the Emergency Room calls me for a stroke

drill, I am prompted to see the patient and make critical, life-saving decision by providing accurate and immediate treatment.”

Dr. Bakdash has privileges at Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Regional Hospital, which make up the Central Florida Health Alliance.

In addition to being board certified in psychiatry and neurology, Dr. Bakdash is certified in neuromuscular care, a subspecialty that is relatively new.

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves controlling voluntary muscles, like those in your arms and legs.

These diseases are often rare and genetic or inherited. That’s why it’s so important for Dr. Bakdash to have a personal relationship with each patient and their families.

“I can’t just focus on the brain. I have to focus on the entire aspect of the nervous system,” Dr. Bakdash said. “I’m on a mission with a patient to learn everything I can to define what the problem is.”

First, he makes the patient feel comfortable by letting the patient know he is focused on that particular area.

“Sometimes when a patient comes here, they really don’t know why they’re seeing a neurologist.

I acknowledge all the patient’s complaints and put together their symptoms and other medical history to make a clearer diagnosis,” Dr. Bakdash said. “This patient has several problems and has probably seen multiple doctors before coming here.”

Dr. Bakdash studies the patient as one who would study a puzzle, putting all the pieces together to create the perfect picture of that patient. “What I do is acknowledge, listen, and analyze the entire problem.”

“I had a patient who was a flight attendant in her 50s, and she had what was termed a ‘nervous breakdown.’ She was diagnosed with dementia,” Dr. Bakdash said. “When she came to us, she did not behave like someone with Alzheimer’s. While there was anxiety, there was no continuing evidence of dementia.”

Dr. Bakdash sees the patientphysician relationship as precious, confidential and deeper than a family relationship. The patient provides confidential medical history and personal life experiences that aid in diagnosis. “Doctors often spend more time with the patients than we spend with our family. That means if I’m not there for my patient, that relationship is inefficient.”

After careful examination and developing a relationship with the flight attendant, Dr. Bakdash was sure her problem was not dementia. Rather, he believed she was experiencing anxiety; a problem treatable with medication and talk therapy. His deeper understanding of her personality and her physical issues helped him reach this conclusion.

Extensive dialogue with the patient is imperative to finding an accurate diagnosis, so Dr. Bakdash makes it

a point to take the time to see his patients. “Poor communication with the patient is a major failure of the physician-patient relationship that we value and are keen to maintain in neurology at Central Florida Health Alliance,” Dr. Bakdash said.

He compares giving a diagnosis of this nature to the verdict a jury presents after reviewing all the evidence. “Like a responsible jury, I am very keen to provide the patient with the accurate and fair verdict/diagnosis.”

told her she could take it orally.” The problem came when the doctor didn’t explain the correct dosage of the oral vitamins to the patient, which confused her. “She was taking less than what was needed, but it was a problem that was very simple to fix.”

Dr. Bakdash wants patients to know he is there to help. “People come to a doctor for answers,” he said. “I take the time to choose what needs to be done with care because I am dealing with human beings.”

“As we get older, we have issues, things that need attention, just like a vehicle”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

“As we get older, we have issues, things that need attention, just like a vehicle,” Dr. Bakdash said. “Things in a car get older and must be attended to, like changing the oil and lubing various parts or tuning the engine. It’s the same with our bodies.”

In order to provide optimal care for his patients, Dr. Bakdash has chosen to practice the entire field of neurology and its disorders of the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nerves. “For example, a patient with Parkinson’s disease, whose illness involves the brain, can also suffer from nerve or muscle disease. It is imperative that the neurologist care for both conditions,” Dr. Bakdash said.

Dr. Bakdash believes that helping a patient is as simple as explaining in detail how the medication is taken. “One of my patients needed to take B-12 shots, but when she went to her primary care doctor, he

III PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE III

________________________________

TAREK BAKDASH, MD 1400 US Hwy 441 Bldg. 500, Suite 524 The Villages, FL 32159 352.751.8790

Central Florida Expressway Authority

Expanding Opportunity, Driving Progress WEKIVA PKWY

Mt. Dora

Economic Driver • 25-mile Wekiva Parkway (SR 429) will complete the beltway around Metro Orlando

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E-PASS: Local Investment • Paying with E-PASS keeps toll dollars in the Central Florida region • E-PASS rewards frequent beltway drivers with volume and beltway discounts

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Vision Statement: To provide the region with a world-class, integrated mobility network that drives economic prosperity and quality of life.

Governing Board

Welton Cadwell Chairman, Lake County Commissioner

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Scott Boyd

Brenda Carey

Vice-Chairman, Orange County Commissioner

Secretary/Treasurer, Seminole County Commissioner

• 81% surveyed said that CFX should play a role in multimodal LYNX

• In June 2014, the state gave CFX the authority to explore other transportation modes within its right-of-way Buddy Dyer

Fred Hawkins, Jr.

Board Member, Orlando Mayor

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Andria Herr

Teresa Jacobs

Board Member

Board Member, Orange County Mayor

Jay Madara

S. Michael Scheeringa

Board Member

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SERVICE CENTER

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Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise: Non-Voting Advisor

The Villages Facelift Specialist You Can Trust Surgical or Non-Surgical.

Don’t settle for less.

Results are typical and do vary.

Dr. Rich Castellano is a Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon as seen on:

Results are typical and do vary.

NEW!

FACIAL BEAUTY MASTER CLASS LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE

Free ImageLift seminars are being held at the following locations in November and December. Meet the doctor and enjoy free food, books, *drawings and door prizes. *RAFFLE DRAWINGS AWARD FREE FILLER TREATMENTS, A $1200 VALUE!

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Waterfront Inn, The Villages Citrus Hills Country Club, Hernando Waterfront Inn, The Villages ImageLift Office, The Villages Citrus Hills Country Club, Hernando

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

Dr. Castellano

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good nutrition makes healthy families

WIC provides the following at no cost: Healthy foods, nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding support and referrals to health care, immunizations, and community services.

Call WIC today!

Wo m e n | I n f a n t s | C h i l d r e n

English: 352.771.5559 // Spanish: 352.394.3464 ext. 3002 USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Your heart is amazing!

Give it some extra love this February.

February is American Heart Month Join us as we celebrate the month with education and fun by attending one of our many events.

Women’s Hot Topic Breakfast Friday, February 5, 8:30 a.m.

Tavares Pavilion on the Lake

Enjoy a heart-healthy breakfast and an open discussion of women’s health topics from heart disease to hormones, nutrition, stress and more.

NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY, SHOW YOUR SUPPORT BY WEARING RED!

Amazing Heart Day Friday, February 12, 7 to 9 a.m.

Florida Hospital Waterman Main Atrium

Featuring free health risk assessments (includes glucose, full lipid panel and lifestyle assessment) and a tour through the MEGA Heart, a walk-through, inflatable, interactive, educational model of the human heart.

Registration and fasting required for screenings.

Cooking for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, February 17, 5 to 6 p.m.

Florida Hospital Waterman Conry CREATION Health Center

Join us for a heart-healthy cooking demonstration in the CREATION Health Kitchen.

Treatment for Heart Arrhythmias Presented by Miguel Bryce, MD

Thursday, February 25, 1 to 2 p.m.

Florida Hospital Waterman Mattison Conference Center

All events are free and open to the public. However, space is limited.

Please register by calling (352) 253-3635 or visit FHWatermanHeart.com

eats QUICK BITES IN THE KITCHEN SALUTE FORK ON THE ROAD DINING GUIDE

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EATS // QUICK BITES Bits and Bites of Food in the News

A Place to Enjoy Salad Days

Where can you get 15 different varieties of chicken salad? At the new Chicken Salad Chick located at 996 La Plaza Grande in Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages. The company has franchises in several places in Florida, including Orlando, Tallahassee, and Gainesville. The menu features fresh, healthy food and nothing fried. Previously the site of Mario’s Pizza, the new business will be open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

A Taste of Italy!

There’s going to be a new Italian deli in town thanks to Giovanni Manco, owner of Giovanni’s Ristorante & Pizzeria in Southern Trace Plaza. The commercial complex will house six small buildings, in addition to the deli, and is located just north of the Oxford Post Office on U.S. Highway 301.

Customers can buy sausages and other ingredients included in the tasty Italian dishes served at Giovanni’s, and there’ll be space for tables and chairs.

WAVE OF GOODNESS If you drive anywhere in the tri-county area I can bet you’re near a Darrell’s Diner. This small-town diner has become a chain, with seven established locations and the newest one, No. 8, going into a long-boarded-up building in Wildwood. Darrell’s “Doggone Good” Diner’s golden Retriever logo was spotted on the corner of 301 and 462. Renovations of the location continue, but it sure is a welcomed sight!

FEBRUARY 2016

GRAB A FORK AND CELEBRATE Holidays don’t always have to be about presents and spending time with the family. Sometimes it can be as simple as celebrating something you love, and since this is Quick Bites, we’re talking about food. Here are some odd yet delicious food holidays to mark on your calendar this month, according to Foodimentary.com

National Fettuccine Alfredo Day

7 National Bagels and Lox Day

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BYE , Trace on down to Tillie’s BYE Foodies are singing the praises of downtown Eustis’ newest hotspot, Tillie’s Tavern & Pub on Magnolia Avenue. This hometown restaurant is quickly gaining a reputation for its generous portion sizes and laidback, friendly atmosphere.

If you want some suggestions on what to try, people are raving about Tillie’s wings, the homemade mac and cheese, and the variety of massive burgers.

You may have noticed on an early morning biscuits-andgravy run that Bojangles, the beloved restaurant known for its Southern-style fast food, closed its doors throughout Central Florida. Quite inexplicably, the owner of the chain decided to leave the business behind— effective immediately, For Bojangles lovers, this means

SO LONG, SONNY’S

Longtime Leesburg favorite, Sonny’s BBQ on Griffin Road, closed its door forever Feb. 1. Though it was the No. 1 Leesburg location for many years, the decision not to renew the franchise agreement came about for a number of reasons. Employees were offered positions with other Sonny’s restaurants in the area.

National Plum Pudding Day

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no more delectable chicken biscuits, or scrumptious sweet potato pies. If that wasn’t sad enough, it also put a sour taste in the mouths of numerous former employees, who were only given a three-day notice. It is now projected that Chick Fil A and Starbucks will be taking over many of the former locations.

National Muffin Day

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EATS // in the kitchen

PHOTO, THIS PAGE: Shutterstock

Out of the frying pan and onto the page

LUSCIOUS, RICH

CHOCOLATE When you open the door of Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Lake Sumter Landing, you are enveloped in the luscious aroma of chocolate. For this special season, when chocolates make the perfect Valentine for the one you love, Style visited in the kitchen with the staff of Peterbrooke.

STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ + SHUTTERSTOCK

“The process in the kitchen begins every day with tempering the chocolate,” said Sarah Bowersox, confectioner for the candy store. “Just to temper the chocolate takes an hour and a half every morning. That’s the process of pouring it and heating it to the proper temperature so it’s presentable.”

The glossy, firm finish you see on premium chocolates and candy bars is the result of tempering. Time and temperature differ for tempering dark, milk, and white chocolate.

Sarah said chocolate tastes good no matter how it looks because nothing alters the flavor. “When you [work with it] out of temper, it can be very streaky or speckled,” Sarah said. “It

doesn’t look pleasing to the eye. You have to temper it right to get it to look right so that it cools properly.”

Passionate about the candy the store offers, Sarah takes her responsibilities very seriously. Each day brings a new set of activities that she finds enjoyable and rewarding.

Peterbrooke Chocolatier built its foundation on recreating the look and taste of fine European chocolate with only the best ingredients and Old World techniques to create the perfect complement with American comfort food such as popcorn and Oreo cookies. The chocolate ships to the stores directly from the factory in Jacksonville, but Sarah prepares and creates

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EATS // in the kitchen Out of the frying pan and onto the page

many of the items sold on site.

Owners Veronica and Roger Barnes came to the area at the suggestion of her parents, who live in The Villages.

“My parents lived here, and when we decided to open the store, they said we needed to see Lake Sumter Landing,” Veronica said. “At the time, we lived in the Heathrow area. We’re both Christians, and when we saw it, we felt like God was telling us, ‘This is the place.’”

*

Sarah’s work in the kitchen requires careful attention to detail. Her artistic side comes out, especially when working on novelty items like the ladies’ high-heeled shoe or purse…

Veronica said people warned them it would take six to eight months to get the business up and running, but they did it in three. “We opened in March 2008 right before Easter. I’ve never made so many bunnies in my life.”

Prior to opening the chocolate shop, Veronica worked as a convergence engineer, where she combined voice and data networks in information technology.

“It took some adjusting for me to work here because I just wasn’t used to this environment after working in an office for so long,” Veronica said. “It has been an amazing journey.”

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FUN FACTS FOR

VALENTINE’S DAY

48

%

of people hope to receive chocolates on Valentine’s Day At any given time, roughly 91 percent of households have chocolate in them.

That number bumps up to

Each season brings a new focus for molds, gift baskets, and original designs.

“I do more than 80 percent of the chocolate in the store,” Sarah said. “There are just a few items I don’t do. I do the ginger, all the pretzels, the orange peels—pretty much everything except the bin items up front, which come from Jacksonville.”

Sarah’s work in the kitchen requires careful attention to detail. Her artistic side comes out, especially when working on novelty items like the ladies’ high-heeled shoe or purse, unique gifts with corporate logos on them, seasonal items, and the ever-popular popcorn and array of chocolate assortments. Almost anything you’d like covered with chocolate is accommodated in this kitchen, including wine bottles.

“Everything is prepped differently, so it takes different time to prep,” Sarah said. “I have two temper machines now so I can do two at a time. If I do both, I do more than 60 pounds of chocolate a day. That takes about six to seven hours a day, not including tempering.”

Veronica originally learned the process with representatives from the Jacksonville factory. Sarah began her career working the floor of the store. She demonstrated an avid interest in the preparation process, much to Veronica’s delight, and now keeps the kitchen running smoothly.

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%

during holiday seasons.

According to Candy & Snacks Today,

of people study the “map” included in their box of chocolates before eating; 24 percent randomly select a piece of candy; 9 percent will take a bite to get to the middle; and 5 percent poke the bottom to check inside the chocolate.

53

%

of women dump their boyfriend if they receive no Valentine’s Day gift.

“The people who work for me are a huge blessing,” Veronica said. “A lot of them have been with me seven years plus and I’m just grateful for every one of them. I’m also extremely grateful for those who support us.”

Oreo and Nutter Butter are among the most popular cookies. However, you can get them encased in the creamy Peterbrooke milk or dark chocolate. “If I’m doing the enrober line with the cookies and crackers, that doesn’t take as much prep work because the cookies are premade,” Sarah said.

“We use Oreos and Ritz crackers. However, we do make the turtles and peanut butter Ritz back here, which is great but very time consuming.”

Enrobing is the process of covering a cookie, pretzel, cracker, fruit, or other item in creamy chocolate. Sarah said the machine has taken considerable time off this process.

Hand-dipping each item made it a lengthy process.

Chelsea Riley works on the floor, and when asked if she gets overwhelmed with chocolate, she just smiled and said, “I have days when I really want chocolate and some days when I don’t. I really love the chocolate here because it’s so good.

The dark sea salt is my favorite and it’s a favorite of Villagers, too.”

Buying a candy assortment always leaves you vulnerable to that one person who pokes a finger in the array to see what’s in the middle. With Peterbrooke Chocolatier that won’t be a problem. You’ll not only be able to choose each piece to go into your box, you’ll be able to pick the perfect box. There are the traditional heart-shaped boxes along with others of various sizes and designs.

“We also have a box that looks like a little book,” Sarah said. “When you open it, there are your truffles.”

But there’s more…

“One special thing we do for Valentine’s Day is the strawberries,” Sarah said. “Customers can call us or come in the store, and we do a preorder, maybe a week before Valentine’s Day, and they’ll get a discount.”

Keep an eye on peterbrookethevillages. com for details.

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EATS // saluté A worldly look at wine

CELEBRATE FEBRUARY’S OTHER WINE HOLIDAY Open That Bottle Night has become an international phenomenon since two enterprising wine columnists created it in 1999. What will be your special wine on Feb. 27?

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS

D

ig deep into that wine fridge or cabinet for a bottle of wine you’ve been holding onto for a while. Open That Bottle Night (OTBN) is just around the corner, and it is time to pop the cork on a special bottle. The last Saturday in February is the official Open That Bottle Night, but the nice thing about this holiday is you can celebrate any time you are ready to open a wine that is significant to you. Moreover, it doesn’t have to be an expensive or rare vintage either.

If you’ve never celebrated OTBN, then you probably need a little history about how the idea began. Florida natives Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher, a husband-and-wife team that began their journalism careers at The Miami Herald, wrote the wine column “Tastings” in the Wall Street Journal for 12 years. Like many other writers, they probably struggled occasionally to find interesting topics that hadn’t already been written ad nauseum. After all, how many times do you want

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SOURCE: https://grapecollective.com/articles/this-pinot-changed-his-world-perfect-for-open-that-bottle-night; PHOTO: Courtesy of Dorothy Gaiter

DOROTHY J. GAITER AND JOHN BRECHER

to read about wines and chocolate for Valentine’s Day? More importantly, they were also getting hundreds of letters from readers asking “when” to drink a particular wine.

“Not a week went by that we didn’t get a letter from someone telling us about a wine they’d had for a long time and asking when it would be at the peak of aged perfection,” Gaiter wrote recently in her new role as a senior editor for Grape Collective magazine. “Sometimes the wine had been brought back from a marvelous vacation…or it had been the gift of a departed relative or friend…In one instance, the wine was from a case a mother had bought for her son’s wedding, and many years had passed without him getting close to getting hitched—she was ready to drink.”

The columnists answered those queries with the same advice throughout the year: Prepare a special meal on a Saturday, gather some loved ones, and open that bottle. They believed the wine’s peak moment would be when it was shared and discussed.

Then, in 1999, Gaiter and Brecher had a brainstorm and created the OTBN wine holiday. They encouraged their readers to open a symbolically significant bottle and then share

stories about why the bottle was important and how it tasted.

Thousands of readers responded every year with hilarious, thoughtful and, most often, poignant comments.

In a recent email to me, Dorothy shared a reader’s comment that touched her deeply after the very first OTBN. A gentleman in Pennsylvania wrote, “I can only express one regret.

Had we found an occasion last year to open this great ‘gift of the grape,’ my bride of over 50 years could have been present to enjoy this event in person rather than in spirit only.”

Similar if only…stories were repeated every year. Others found a bottle tucked away that they had long forgotten or had inherited. Some people had Bordeaux Grand Crus but were too intimidated to open them; others decided it was a good night to commemorate an event, even if that event was successful knee replacement. Many prepared elaborate meals while others had pizza or hot dogs. Nevertheless, the wine holiday encouraged people to savor life and friendships. The reasons for finally opening a special bottle became more important than the wine itself.

Although Gaiter and Brecher moved on to different publications, they continue to celebrate OTBN

in their adopted hometown of New York City, where they invite folks to join them at a local café. Since its inception, OTBN has become a signature fundraising event for many charities, including some in Florida.

Some restaurants around the country waive their corkage for the night, and wine stores use it to promote special varietals or vintages.

I began reading “Tastings” in the early 2000s, and the OTBN follow-up columns were among my favorites. I was fascinated by the reasons people had for saving their wines. My husband and I had our own stash of 1996 vintages—the year we married.

After a few years, we ran out of “our” vintage, but we’ve managed to always have a special bottle tucked away. We learned that OTBN wasn’t always about the wine, though. The evening was more fun with friends who brought their own special bottle of wine along with their stories and memories.

As one of Gaiter’s and Brecher’s readers wrote after the first OTBN, “Drink it, don’t revere it!” I can’t think of more appropriate advice.

If you celebrate OTBN this month, please share your experience with me by sending a brief email to maryann@ akersmediagroup.com with OTBN in the subject line. I would like to share your stories about your special wine evening in a future “Salute!”

Until then, happy OTBN!

ABOUT THE WRITER Living in Italy was the catalyst for Mary Ann DeSantis to understand more about wine, and she now enjoys sharing what she’s learned.

Since 2010, Saluté has covered topics for oenophiles of all levels — from novice wine drinkers to experienced connoisseurs. The column received a 2014 Florida Magazine Association Silver Award for Best Department and a 2012 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Award for Commentary.

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EATS // fork on THE Road Tasty insights and observations

PUDDLEJUMPERS IT’S NOT AIRPLANE FOOD! STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

Puddle Jumpers Lakeside in Tavares offers a fantastic combination—great food and a view that’s always exciting. You can enjoy fresh seafood, a tender steak or a delicious burger while watching the seaplanes on Lake Dora.

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No matter where you sit in the glassfronted restaurant, you have a great view to enjoy with a delicious meal. I had the Puddle Jumpers burger sliders, which aren’t your typical tiny burgers. These juicy steak burgers, grilled fresh with all

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the trimmings, were wonderful. The fries were hot and crisp. Since they have a full bar, I also had a Malibu rum and pineapple juice with my lunch.

My husband had fish and chips, skipping the French fries and going instead for the house kettle chips, which he thoroughly enjoyed. The lightly breaded fish was cooked to perfection, served with fresh tartar sauce, and enjoyed with an Absolut screwdriver.

Our only problem was we didn’t have room to try more menu items, such as the jalapeno cornbread BLT or buffalo ranch chicken sandwiches. The dinner looked

even more enticing with fresh Norwegian salmon, ribeye steak or the Pilot’s Platter with its center-cut Angus sirloin, fried shrimp, and homemade lump crab cake.

During our lunch, we had an active view. There were jet-ski races and boat races going on while the planes were coming in and out. We strolled along the water’s edge after lunch and visited the Tavares Prop Shop, which has lots of cool T-shirts and other goodies with the airport logo on them.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a lazy lunch, dinner with a touch of elegance or a Seaside Bucket with snow crab cocktail claws and peel-n-eat shrimp, Puddle Jumpers is the place to go.

4 FORKS

(OUT OF POSSIBLE 5) PUDDLE JUMPERS 111 W. Ruby St., Tavares 352.508.5862 www.puddlejumperslakeside.com

FORK REPORT: Casual dining // $$ // Seated immediately (late afternoon) // Wait for meal: 15 minutes OUT-OF-THE-ORDINARY STARTERS ($8.99-$24.99): The Seaside Bucket: Includes peel-n-eat shrimp and crab cocktail claws; Crab Cakes: made with lump crab, served with rémoulade sauce; Chicken Pitadillas: Soft pita bread stuffed with grilled chicken, toasted, served with homemade ranch dressing.

ENTREES: ($8.99-$24.99) Pilot’s Platter: 8 oz. Angus center-cut sirloin, fried shrimp, and homemade lump crab cake with garlic mashed potatoes and a vegetable medley; Seafood Medley Pasta: Sautéed shrimp and Mahi tossed in special seafood sauce garnished with snow crab claw; Steak Burgers: Served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and mayo along with fresh-cut fries or kettle chips.

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.

LEGACY RESTAURANT

AT THE NANCY LOPEZ COUNTRY CLUB Where fine dining meets country club living STORY: SHEMIR WILES

The Villages is known for its array of fine country club dining establishments. However, some stand above the rest, and such is the case with Legacy Restaurant at the Nancy Lopez Country Club.

With four elegant, well-sized dining rooms, Legacy accommodates parties of all sizes. It also has enough intimate seating for a romantic night out with a special someone, and the staff’s attentive, friendly nature makes you feel right at home.

I was lucky enough on the evening I dined at Legacy to be seated right away. By 6:30, the early evening dining crowd had left and my friend and I found a cozy booth in the corner of the main dining area. Once settled, we promptly looked over the dinner menu.

My friend suggested I try the mushroom brie soup, which is a favorite among her friends in The Villages. I decided to order the soup to start and settled on the filet blanco y negro for my main course. My friend, however, choose my second choice for an entrée: the grilled salmon Mateo. She paired it with a half serving of the cranberry and walnut salad.

As we waited for our food, we pored over the wine menu. My guest, who is more knowledgeable about wine than I am (and happens to write Style’s Saluté wine column), had a glass of Mark West pinot noir. I, on the other hand, wanted something different and eventually settled on a glass of Diseño Old

Vine malbec. The wine was smooth and velvety in texture, and paired well with my mushroom brie soup. A fan of brie, I found the soup silky and rather rich but not heavy, and the mushrooms added some earthiness.

When my main course arrived, I was dying to try my 8-ounce filet that was served in a lovely peppercorn sauce and peppercorn demi glace. The steak was extremely tender and juicy and both the peppercorn sauce and demi glace were nice accompaniments, but the steak could have easily stood alone.

My sides—mashed red potatoes and green beans—were both delicious and cooked to perfection.

I also sampled my friend’s dishes and found her cranberry and walnut salad was absolutely delightful. The spring mix was fresh and the raspberry vinaigrette was light and tangy. Her grilled salmon Mateo was also very tasty. It is marinated for eight hours in bourbon and brown sugar and then finished with a delightful sesameginger glaze. The glaze reminded me of teriyaki, but less sweet and subtler.

For dessert, I ordered a slice of raspberry white chocolate brûlée cheesecake. It was almost too gorgeous to eat with its bold red raspberry swirls, but it tasted as good as it looked. The cheesecake was pure bliss, as each bite melted in my mouth. And the hand fired, glazed crème brûlée topping added a bit of crunch that was pleasantly unexpected.

If you plan to visit Legacy, be prepared to spend a good chunk of change.

Most of the entrees are in the $20 to $35 range. However, if it means excellently prepared food and impeccable service in a relaxing, five-star setting, then it is worth every penny.

LEGACY RESTAURANT AT THE NANCY LOPEZ COUNTRY CLUB 17135 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages 352.753.1475

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

1884 RESTAURANT AND BAR OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: 11A.M.–12A.M. // LUNCH, DINNER, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 12 EAST MAGNOLIA AVENUE, EUSTIS // 1.800.856.1884 // WWW.1884RESTAURANTANDBAR.COM 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 11am to Midnight 7 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 7 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 3 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 pm with happy hour from 4:30 - 6:30. No doubt, there’s something for everyone at 1884. This restaurant has won in 4 categories for the 2015 Lake and Sumter Style’s Hot list: Best server - Shelly Jaggers, Best bartender - Chelsea Harkness, Best Cocktail, 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. Join the email list at www.1884restaurantandbar.com to be the first to know of all specials, entertainers and events.

BARNWOOD BBQ AND COUNTRY KITCHEN 50 W. ORANGE AVE., EUSTIS. // 352.630.4903 // WWW.BARNWOODBBQ.COM Mouth-watering barbecue. A family-like atmosphere. Old-fashioned service. Those are three qualities that patrons of Barnwood BBQ and Country Kitchen in Eustis experience upon each visit. Owners Dan and Elaine Backhaus have discovered that the recipe behind delicious barbecue is cooking meats low and slow over smoldering wood. That method has served them well, both for their restaurant and food truck business. Diners can also purchase Barnwood’s delicious, award-winning barbecue sauces and special seasonings. Popular breakfast items include a ham-and-cheese omelet, smoked sausage omelet, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and a variety of breakfast combinations, which are served all day. The restaurant’s equally delicious lunch items include a three-rib sandwich, pulled pork sandwich, beef brisket platter, smoked country sausage platter, mushroom Swiss burger, and grilled Reuben sandwich. Burgers, soups, and salads are also available. Be sure to top off your meal with one of Barnwood’s popular desserts, which include fruit cobbler and dark-chocolate brownies.

Judges Choice Best Entree for our pulled pork 2014 and 2015 at the Taste of Triangle Food Event.

HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 7A.M. TO 3P.M. LOCATION: 50 W. ORANGE AVE. IN EUSTIS. CONTACT: 352.630.4903 OR VISIT WWW.BARNWOODBBQ.COM.

COUSIN VINNIE’S FAMILY SPORTS RESTAURANT OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK: 11A.M.–9P.M. // FOOD, SPIRITS, MUSIC, SPORTS 10700 U.S. HWY. 441, LEESBURG // 352.253.2442 // WWW.CVINNIES.COM Cousin Vinnie’s is located on U.S. Hwy. 441 across from Lake Square Mall. 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 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. 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.

Thursday night is “Karaoke Night” where everyone is a star! 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 almost seven years, if you have never been there… it is absolutely time for you to check it out!

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

THE GOBLIN MARKET RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 331-B DONNELLY STREET (REAR ALLEY), MOUNT DORA 352.735.0059 // WWW.GOBLINMARKETRESTAURANT.COM Nestled on a back alley in downtown Mount Dora, the Goblin Market Restaurant has been charming locals and tourists alike since 1996. The restaurant, housed in a renovated warehouse, features three intimate, book-lined dining rooms and a full-service lounge furnished in soothing, muted tones with tasteful modern art. The private, tree-shaded courtyard and garden patio are open year-round for al fresco dining. Low lighting and “new age” music add the finishing touches to the restaurant’s casual elegance. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski embrace a simple philosophy of offering the highest-quality products, served in a unique and romantic atmosphere by a personable and attentive staff.

The Goblin Market’s wine list and menu represent a refreshing mix of ideas from its culinary team. The diversified origins and background of each member ensure exciting menu offerings and nightly selections.

HOURS OF OPERATION: LUNCH: TUESDAY–SATURDAY 11A.M.–3:00P.M. DINNER: TUESDAY–THURSDAY 5–9P.M., FRIDAY–SATURDAY 5–10P.M., SUNDAY 11A.M.–3:30P.M.

JOIN US FOR OUR NEW “LIGHTER FARE” DINNER MENU, GOURMET SOUPS, SALADS, AND SANDWICHES. TUESDAY– THURSDAY FROM 3–9P.M. (REGULAR DINNER MENU ALSO AVAILABLE).

SUBWAY WWW.SUBWAY.COM Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food.

LADY LAKE // 208 W. Guava St. // 352.750.4929 EUSTIS // 469 Plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 MOUNT DORA // 18870 U.S. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 LEESBURG // 2013 Citrus Blvd. // 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. Hwy. 441, Suite 4 // 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27, Suite 4 // 352.314.8847 THE VILLAGES // 1580 Bella Cruz Drive // 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane // 352.750.9991 1070 Lake Sumter Landing Drive // 352.205.8535 349 Colony Blvd. // 352.391.1657 WILDWOOD // 480 W. Gulf to Alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800 HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY–SATURDAY SUNDAY

10A.M.–10P.M. 10A.M.–9P.M.

TIKI WEST RAW BAR AND GRILL 118 WEST RUBY ST. TAVARES // 352.508.5783 A fun-filled dining experience and delicious food await patrons at Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill. Owner Chris Clark serves up tasty Key West-inspired food such as homemade crab cakes, mahi tacos, fresh oysters, and our famous chargrilled oysters. We now offer all you can eat specials everyday on crab legs $37.99, peel and eat shrimp $24.99, fried shrimp $24.99, crawfish $19.99, fried mahi mahi $ 16.99, fried clamstrips $15.99, and fried tilapia $11.99. Choose an all you can eat and you get any of the others of equal or lesser value!

Daily specials are also offered, including .60¢ wings on Monday, $2 off dozens of oysters on Tuesday, peel-and-eat shrimp for $9.99 on Wednesday, $16.99 Angus Choice Prime Rib dinner on Thursday, and discounted buckets of oysters on Sunday. Happy hour is all day, everyday. Diners can also sit at the horseshoe-shaped oyster bar and see how shucking oysters is an art form.

HOURS OF OPERATION 11 A.M. TO 10 P.M. SUNDAY THROUGH THURSDAY 11 A.M. TO 11 P.M. OR LATER FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

ZAC’S PRESSED FOR TIME CAFE 505 W. MAIN ST., TAVARES 352.253.4663 // WWW.ZACSPRESSEDFORTIME.COM Situated in beautiful downtown Tavares across Main Street from the Lake County Courthouse, Zac’s Pressed for Time Café is a popular casual dining restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. Zac’s offers indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate every season and the widely diverse menu is flavored to suit all tastes. Homemade biscuits with sausage gravy, breakfast skillets, burgers, Cuban sandwiches, quesadillas, turkey melts and fresh salads are a few of the customer favorites. Daily specials are available including the crowd-pleasing pot roast sandwich with mashed potatoes, black beans & rice and steak tacos! Have a group to feed? Zac’s has a private dining room, which can hold up to 20 of your closest friends or business associates.

HOURS OF OPERATION: OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FROM 7:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR DINING SECTION?

CALL US AT 352.787.4112

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The Area’s Premier Board Certified Plastic Surgery Group

MEMBER OF American Society of Plastic Surgeons

MEMBER OF American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Our practice is dedicated

to providing exceptional plastic surgery and achieving a beautiful, natural-looking result for our patients. We s st strive to combine surgical expertise, artistic vision, and outstanding service to m make your visit with us a positive, rewarding experience. We offer a complete range of modern procedures that include non-surgical and surgical techniques. ra E Each of our surgeons is board certified in plastic surgery. They are all fully trained and experienced in cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery and reconstructive tr surgery. Our surgeons are always on site and are directors of our medi-spa s and ancillary procedures. a In addition, we have registered nurses assisting the physicians with your care.

This cadre of dedicated professionals ensures that all your questions are answered T and that your experience is personal and complete to your satisfaction. a

S So, if you are seeking a more youthful face, enlarging your b breasts, a flattering figure, the solution to a problem area, or g guidance to help beautify and rejuvenate your skin, our practice ccan help you achieve your goals.

GET TO KNOW OUR

7dVgY 8Zgi^ÝZY EaVhi^X Hjg\Zdch

James Rogers DMD, MD

Navinderdeep Nijher MD

Leonik Ahumada MD, FACS

Dr. Rogers is a native Floridian.

He is a graduate of Emory University, and completed his dental and medical degrees from the University of Florida.

He trained in surgery at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, and completed his plastic surgical training at Tulane University and Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans. Dr. Rogers is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and has performed Cosmetic and Reconstructive Procedures in Ocala for over twenty years. He is one of the most experienced surgeons in Central Florida.

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

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

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“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with 33 years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death.

“In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.” “When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him.

Lastly, I teach him his treatment options.

If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.”

While prescribing medications for BPH can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly

evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, office-based therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy.

One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than 30 minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radio frequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 2,400 patients with this procedure.

“Medtronic is a $13 billion-a-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!”

And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than 20 years)

you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out.

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

JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D. Board Certified Urologist Practicing in Lake County for over 33 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

For more information, contact

PHYSICIANS FOR ACCOUNTABLE CARE 920 Rolling Acres Road, Suite 201 Lady Lake, FL 32159

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ProstateEvaluation.com

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THE ONLY CANCER CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

UF Health Cancer Center – Orlando Health Clermont Office is Now Open!

UF Health Cancer Center – Orlando Health is Central Florida’s only Cancer Center of Excellence. We are pleased to be a part of the South Lake County community.

TECHNOLOGY USED: t Elekta Synergy t Siemens CT Scanner

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TRANSITIONING FROM A DIVORCE OR WIDOWHOOD? “I can enable you to manage change, ůĞǀĞƌĂŐĞ ĂĐŚŝĞǀĞŵĞŶƚƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚƌĂŶƐŝƟ ŽŶ ƚŽ LJŽƵƌ Į ŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĨƌĞĞĚŽŵ͘ / ƵƟ ůŝnjĞ experience, passion, and drive to turn overwhelming problems into ŵĂŶĂŐĞĂďůĞ ĐŚĂůůĞŶŐĞƐ͘͟ —Kathleen M. Bogolin, CPA džĞĐƵƟ ǀĞ ŝƌĞĐƚŽƌ

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ǁǁǁ͘ƚŚĞŇ ď͘ĐŽŵ 3132 Ranchwood Terrace, The Villages

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Life One of the most important decisions made in life, is how to handle its end.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS: Stuart Force, John Roemmelt, Bill Ward, Jim Semesco, Jesika Pucino, Art Hilbish, and Matt Pierson.

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Steverson, Hamlin & Hilbish Funerals and Cremations 226 E. Burleigh Boulevard Tavares, FL 32778 (352) 343-4444 www.SteversonHamlinHilbish.com

Page Theus Funeral Home and Cremation Services 914 West Main Street Leesburg, FL 34748 (352) 787-5511 www.PageTheus.com

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Final thought // Rheya Tanner

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME. ANYWHERE. SERIOUSLY. I have recurring nightmares about house hunting.

Riding with my mother through that cookie-cutter subdivision for the third time in a week. Attempting to navigate cul-de-sacs and looping streets all called “Oak something,” as if that’s cute and not confusing. Successfully following the open-house sign breadcrumbs to find a house that looks exactly like the first two houses—but the flooring is linoleum instead of carpet and the faucets are newer. I remember it like it was yesterday.

Because it was.

I’ve had enough.

I admit it: I’m only going to open houses for the baked goods at this point. Who can blame me? After being dragged through the Lake County housing market for two and a half years, the sweets are all that keep me sane. It’s not that I don’t have the patience for it. I’m just not exactly warm to the idea of moving.

See, I’ve lived in the same house for 20 years. Not just the same city or even the same neighborhood. I’m talking same street address, same home phone number, same pine trees towering over my front lawn — for two decades. Consider that I myself am 20 years old and you connect the dots: I’ve never known another home in my entire life.

That’s not to say my house never changed. Being the daughter of a career construction worker and a mother who watches HGTV like your grandma watches the soaps made very sure of that. The one-story house with robin’s egg trim that

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stood behind the towering pine trees in 1996 didn’t know what it had coming when the Tanners moved in with their lumber and nails and wallpapers and dreams. Twenty years’ worth of weekends later, our two-story house boasts dark red trim and a brick façade. Not a single square foot of the original interior remains untouched—if not touched, retouched, and touched again—by my parents’ unique, homey charm. Now that the dust has settled, literally, what we’re left with is the perfect house… that’s too big.

It’s time to move out and start fresh.

Therein lies the problem. I love my house’s quirks and nuances, and I don’t want to give them up. A different address? A new number? There might not even be any pine trees. How could I accept anything other than that perfect home that Mom and Dad built?

Fortunately for me (or unfortunately, depending on how many houses I’ve seen when you ask me), it seems

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that my mother’s “ideal downsize” doesn’t actually exist. She checks Realtor.com with the same frequency and dedication that business brokers check their stocks. She runs real estate agents ragged with showings and open houses and questions about property value and inspection history and HOA fees—why would you charge $340 per quarter if you don’t even offer lawn care? Still, we come away empty-handed.

This fruitless struggle of two and a half years has taken its toll on my psyche. What if we never again find our unique homey charm and our towering pine trees? What if we can’t find a place that feels like home?

In the midst of all my complaining and cookie consumption, my alwaysinsightful mother offered a piece of advice that struck me: “Don’t sacrifice anything for comfort in a home. If you can’t pull up to the driveway and feel safe, if you can’t close the door behind you and feel peaceful, then don’t pay money for it. All the things we’ve done to our house…we can do them again.

No place will be perfect when you first meet it, but it will be close. Find the home that feels good in its bones, one you can make your mark on as you go, and it’ll do the job just fine.”

After living in the perfect house for so long, no new place will feel quite like it. For me, it seems, turning a house into a home will take time, history, creativity, and care. And while it won’t be easy, maybe if I can let go of the past, I’ll give myself a chance to embrace the future.

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