THE HIT LIST
THIS CHRISTMAS, TAKE A HIKE Tired of long lines? Having trouble finding the perfect gifts? Stressing out about organizing your family’s annual Christmas party? Certainly, the hustle and bustle of the holidays can leave us saying, ‘Bah humbug!’ Perhaps a date with nature can alleviate those Christmas blues. Fortunately, Lake and Sumter counties have plenty of hiking trails where you can renew your Christmas spirit. PEAR (PALATLAKAHA ENVIRONMENTAL AND AGRICULTURAL RESERVE) PARK Enjoy a guided hiking tour with Lake County park rangers, or simply discover this amazing 318-acre park by yourself. PEAR Park is home to 160 species of birds and 40 species of butterflies. 4800 University Avenue Leesburg, FL. 34748 352.253.4950
LAKE OKAHUMPKA PARK Enjoy a one-mile paved walking trail with multiple fitness stations, plaques that identify trees, and a wide variety of plants. 6085 E. S.R. 44 Wildwood, FL. 34785 352.689.4400
FLAT ISLAND PRESERVE Enjoy old ancient oak trees and unique birding opportunities as you hike at this 2,300-acre conservation area in the Okahumpka Marsh. Flat Island Preserve features two wooded islands, as well as a 440-foot boardwalk leading to a canoe launch. 2301 Owens Road Leesburg, FL. 34748 352.343.3777
LAKE LOUISA STATE PARK More than 20 miles of hiking trails through thick Florida vegetation provide plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching. 7035 U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont, FL. 34714 352.394.3969
DID YOU KNOW? Forty-six years ago this month, the Mote-Morris House was added to the National Register of Historic Places. E.H. Mote, who served eight terms as Leesburg mayor, built the home for $9,000. In 1918, the house came into the possession of the Morris family, which resided there for the next 70 years. The home known for its Victorian Revival architecture contains some interesting features, including an L-shaped stairway leading to three bedrooms on the second floor, a clawfoot, cast-iron tub, and a four-story turret, or small tower. The Mote-Morris House is located at 1195 W. Magnolia St., Leesburg.
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PUT CAITLYN JENNER OR SNOOP DOGG UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE Looking for the perfect gift for that someone who is hard to shop for? Cameo.com has the answer: a personalized video message from a celebrity. For $2,500, Caitlyn Jenner will be happy to say Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, or just about anything you request (within reason, of course). Too pricey? How about a message from Snoop Dogg for $900? On a tight budget? Steve Spurrier will talk for $149. Still too much? Consider lifeguard/ boxer BrawlnBarnes. She’ll say hello for a mere $7. Cameo.com offers a choice of more than 30,000 athletes, musicians, actors, reality TV stars, and creators from YouTube, TikTok, and more, so you’re sure to find something special for anyone. Prices range from $1 to $2,500 for each personalized one-minute video to anyone you want to surprise. Visit cameo.com to find your favorite celebs and purchase.
