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We’re celebrating 38 wonderful years! For nearly four decades, we’ve been committed to providing the highest quality of products and an unwavering commitment to exceed our customer’s expectations. Our core values have remained the same, at Babette’s, you are family. We are honored to be a local favorite and we are grateful to each customer along the way. Here’s to 38 years and many more!

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Better With Age Celebrating success, experience and people who keep making an impact.

Kendra Akers Doug Akers OWNER/PUBLISHER kendra@akersmediagroup.com

DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL Michael Gaulin Cindy Peterson CREATIVE DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

Over 40 feature. Their stories are all different, but each is a reminder that there is no expiration date on ambition, reinvention or making an impact. I am confident this feature will become a Style tradition. We’re also celebrating our local business community with our annual Business Spotlight special section. These are the businesses, owners and professionals who help make Lake and Sumter counties such a great place to live. As a local business owner myself, I know how much work happens behind the scenes, and I’m always proud every time Style gives these businesses a platform to tell their stories. Finally, we’re taking an in-depth look at an important topic for many of us – Florida’s property tax amendment and what it could mean for homeowners. This issue is packed, and I hope you enjoy getting to know the people and businesses behind the pages.

MANAGING EDITOR roxanne@akersmediagroup.com

Nicole Hamel Gina Horan FOOD & LIFESTYLE EDITOR gina@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Cynthia McFarland

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Gary Corsair

SALES / MARKETING Aubrey Akers Simmons ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

ADMINISTRATION Emily Gaulin Taylor Browne DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES emily@akersmediagroup.com

OFFICE COORDINATOR taylor@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION Frank Suarez DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Akers Media is a proud member of

Until next month,

Kendra

Have a story to tell? We’re always looking for stories about people who live and work in our area. Send suggestions to editorial@akersmediagroup.com.

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR cindy@akersmediagroup.com

Shawnee Coppola Roxanne Batriz ART DIRECTOR shawnee@akersmediagroup.com CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER nicole@akersmediagroup.com

his issue feels a little extra special because we’re introducing something we’ve never done before at Style: 40 Over 40. Over the years, we’ve featured 40 Under 40, celebrating young professionals who are building careers, businesses and making their mark on our community. But somewhere along the way, I think we forgot that some of the best chapters come later. There is something pretty great about being over 40. You know yourself better. You’ve learned a few lessons, probably made a few mistakes and hopefully stopped worrying quite so much about what everyone else thinks. Success also starts to look a little different. It’s not always about climbing the ladder. Sometimes it’s about building something that lasts, changing direction, giving back or finally having the confidence to go after something you’ve always wanted. That’s what I love about the 40 people you’ll meet in this month’s inaugural 40

PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

Winner of 200+ Awards for Excellence Lake & Sumter Style. Published monthly by Akers Media, 120 E North Blvd, Suite 101, Leesburg, FL 34748 and 128 Orange Ave, Leesburg, FL 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2026 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” 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. *Stories published may be assisted using AI generated software.

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*Patient and any 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.

FIRST

P EO PLE C O MM EN TA RY NEWS

OUTSTANDING STUDENT Faith is her foundation, leadership her calling and big dreams only the beginning for Lena Bracciale.

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THE HIT LIST

SLOW AND STEADY: The familiar gopher tortoise is receiving renewed attention after a global conservation assessment classified the protected species as critically endangered. If you spot one, give it space and never disturb its burrow. The slow-moving reptile remains vital to the state’s ecosystem. FOR MORE INFORMATION: GOPHER TORTOISE CONSERVATION PROGRAM, 850.921.1030.

REALITY CHECK: Clermont native and South Lake High School graduate Kayden-Harmony Greenstein is turning her lifelong love of storytelling into a Hollywood opportunity. The University of Southern California student was among 40 college students nationwide selected for the prestigious Television Academy Foundation Summer Internship Program. Kayden-Harmony, a national speech and debate champion, hopes to create unscripted television that entertains while making a meaningful impact.

COCKTAILS ON WHEELS: A restored horse trailer is turning heads at weddings, festivals and private events across Central Florida. Driftwood Social’s mobile bar serves handcrafted cocktails and zero-proof drinks while providing a distinctive backdrop for celebrations. What began as a trailer makeover is now a traveling business appearing everywhere from backyard parties to elegant receptions. 352.446.8306 / DRIFTWOODSOCIALBAR.COM @DRIFTWOODSOCIALBAR

TRICK-OR-TREAT SAFELY: Make “boo-tiful” Halloween memories by following these tips from Safe Kids Worldwide: • Carry glow sticks or flashlights and use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags to help children see and be seen.

STREET SMART: Have a rural address and post office box? Many post offices allow customers to use the post office’s street address with their box number to receive packages from carriers that do not deliver to PO boxes. The free street addressing service can make online shopping easier. Check with your local post office for availability and the correct address format.

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• Accompany children younger than 12 while trickor-treating. • Drivers should slow down, remain alert and turn on headlights early. Excited children may dart into the street. • Remind children to cross streets at corners or crosswalks. • Choose properly fitting costumes to prevent trips and falls. When possible, use face paint instead of masks, which can limit children’s vision.

HONOR AMONG FARMERS: Honor-system farm stands offering fresh eggs, produce, flowers, honey, homemade treats and a convenient way to support local farms are popping up along backroads in Lake and Sumter counties. Self-serve customers make their selections and leave payment in a cash box or through a digital payment app. REPRESENTING FLORIDA: South Sumter High School student Chase Bogart will represent the Florida Future Farmers of America chapter as a delegate at the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo, Oct. 18–25 in Indianapolis. The South Sumter FFA member will participate in discussions, activities and business proceedings with members and leaders from across the country. The honor recognizes Chase’s commitment to agricultural education and leadership, teamwork, communication skills and parliamentary procedure. Thousands of students, advisors, educators and agricultural industry representatives are expected to attend. VISIT FLAFFA.ORG.

GARDEN SYMPHONY: A Swirl musical sculpture has become a popular feature at the Nunan Butterfly Garden on the grounds of the W.T. Bland Library in Mount Dora. The interactive instrument, donated to the city in 2024 by family and friends of Sebastian Morrison in his memory, was designed by a Grammy Award-winning musician to produce melodic sounds no matter which note is struck. Make some music at the garden. 1995 N DONNELLY ST., MOUNT DORA

HEROISM HONORED: Deputy First Class Stefano Gargano received the Sons of the American Revolution Medal for Heroism from Lake County Sheriff Peyton C. Grinnell. The distinguished award recognizes Gargano’s outstanding bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of imminent danger. Congratulations to Gargano on this achievement and thank you for continuing to serve Lake County residents.

SUNDAY YUMDAY: Sundays are tastier at The Venue by Brix27, where brunch is served 10am–2pm. For $40 per person, guests can enjoy an all-you-caneat spread of brunch classics and chef-inspired surprises. Because brunch without drinks is just a “sad, late breakfast,” mixologists serve mimosas, Bloody Marys and specialty cocktails to complete the experience. THEVENUECLERMONT.COM

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PERSON OF INTEREST

PEO PLE

MARJORIE M. LINDER Reaching 100 comes with a long list of memories and a reminder to never lose your sparkle. STORY & PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON

VITAL STATS

• Birthday: Oct. 5, 1926 • Born in Ohio and grew up in Greenville, SC • Married for 45 years • Mother of four, grandmother of seven • Lives in The Harrison of Wildwood • Loves bingo

My best advice: Jesus first, others second, yourself last. The secret to life: You have to look for the good things in life. Always look for something wonderful and don’t ever lose your sparkle.

What amazes me most: That I’ve lived this long.

My favorite meal: Breakfast. I have bacon and fruit. And coffee, of course.

A childhood memory I cherish: I had such wonderful parents. I want to be like them because my mother was a very sweet, gentle person, and my father was very strict, but very loving, and he taught me things even when I didn’t know I was learning.

If I could have one superpower: It would be to help to spread Jesus’ love in the world.

Something younger generations worry about too much: They worry too much about themselves. Think of other people first or learn from others. Don’t fill your mind with things that are not worthy.

What always makes me laugh: Our little kids are so cute when they’re young. And they have such a good time. They get a gift for Christmas and a lot of times they like the cardboard box that it came in better than the gift itself.

A song that takes me back: “Save the Last Dance for Me.”

The best thing about turning 100: That I turned 100. I can’t believe how quickly I got here. Even though there’s not much time left, I still have time to tell others about Jesus.

Know a person of interest? Tell us! Email your recommendation to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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CINDY PETERSON

The same great care with a new name

Adults 65+

The Villages Health is now CenterWell Senior Primary Care® At CenterWell Senior Primary Care®, you can count on our team of doctors and specialists to take a proactive approach to keep you at your healthiest. We’ll also spend the time it takes to get to know you. Because the more we understand your unique needs, the more we can deliver personalized healthcare, so you can keep doing what you love. We’re Medicare Advantage friendly! We accept many Medicare plans including Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, CarePlus, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare.

50% more one-on-one time with your doctor*

EZ-Care clinic

Close to home

Patient-centric

All locations are golf-cart accessible for your convenience

Our unique care model supports your active lifestyle

Same-day and weekend appointments for urgent needs

Accepting new patients

352-554-8729 MyCenterWellinTheVillages.com Comparison based on a study published by the Oxford Academic in June 2023 stating that the average primary care exam was approximately 21 minutes. Times vary based on services performed.

CenterWell does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age or religion in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities.

OUTSTANDING STUDENT

PEO PLE

Lena Bracciale Faith and heart guide Tavares High senior toward a promising future. STORY: ROXANNE BATRIZ

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

VITAL STATS

Activities: Tavares High Student Government Association (SGA) president, choir student conductor, varsity cheer captain, tennis, FCA and Mount Dora Youth Student Leadership. Favorite school subject: Math because I have always been good with numbers and solving problems. Why student government? I wanted to make changes in my school for the better and foster a familial student community. Whether it’s planning a pep rally or helping make every homecoming better than the last, I wanted to give my friends and fellow Bulldogs the best high school years they could ever have. As SGA president: I am constantly working hard to make sure the Class of 2027 has the best senior year ever, makes tons of fun memories to carry with them as we move on from high school and graduate with a bang.

• Age: 17

Greatest achievement: Finding my identity in Christ and

• GPA: 4.8636 weighted; 3.9697 cumulative

Biggest role models: My parents, because they have shown

letting that turn me into the person I am today. Without God, I would not have the firm foundation I have.

me what it is like to work hard for what I want in life, be the best version of myself, and learn how to balance everything going on in my life and still make time to care for others.

Three words that describe me: God-fearing. Hardworking. Grateful.

Something surprising: My life is not perfect. I may not look like it, but I struggle with my self-image and how I feel others view me and I don’t always feel 100%. Even when someone looks like their life is all sunshine and rainbows, you never know what’s going on behind the curtain.

Favorite free afternoon: Going to Disney with my friends and eating snacks while getting to ride fun rides.

Topping my playlist: Definitely any songs by Malcolm Todd or Steve Lacy and the whole setlist of all the Guardians of the Galaxy movies. Future plans include: Graduating from college with my business and marketing degrees and hopefully landing a job working for Disney or Universal as a marketing team member or manager.

Know an outstanding student? Fill us in! Email your recommendations to roxanne@akersmediagroup.com.

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Not Just Lumps:

Know Your Breast Cancer Symptoms PA I D

PROM OT IO N A L

F E AT U R E

“I

found a lump in my breast.” We hear this line most often concerning breast cancer detection, but breast cancer can exhibit other signs, too. Some may be due to benign causes, but see your doctor if these signs persist or worsen: 1. A thickening inside your breast or in your breast skin. 2. A dimple or indentation in your breast. 3. A crust on your nipple. 4. Redness, swelling, or heat in your breast that doesn’t go away with antibiotics. 5. Nipple discharge not associated with developing breasts, infection, cysts, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. 6. Skin sores developing on your breast, usually associated with a hard lump. 7. A bump on the breast. (These can also be benign lumps or cysts.)

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8. A nipple that flattens or turns inward. 9. Newly appearing blood vessels or veins on the breast or near the collarbone (if not connected to weight gain, breastfeeding, or Mondor’s disease). 10. Changes in breast size, flattening, swelling, or drooping, not due to breastfeeding or menstruation. 11. Your breast looks like the dimpled skin of an orange and might change color. This is a sign of inflammatory breast cancer. 12. A hard, immovable lump deep in your breast is the most common breast cancer symptom, though it may also be a cyst.

Mammograms Save Lives! A study from the National Institutes of Health found that during the period 1975-2020, regular mammograms accounted for 25% of the decrease in deaths from breast cancer. Improved treatments drove the rest of the reduction. The American Cancer Society recommends that women at average breast cancer risk be screened annually from age 45 to 54, and that women age 55 and older be screened every two years. Recommendations differ for women at higher risk, who may need additional screening. Dense breasts and tumors look similar on a mammogram, so a breast ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be needed. Talk to your doctor.

Supporting Each Other

RBOI’s resource room in Lecanto offers wigs, hats, and blankets free to any Citrus County resident undergoing cancer treatment, regardless of where they receive care. Residents can also obtain ﬁnancial assistance from the Citrus Aid Cancer Foundation. Marion County residents can use RBOI’s resource room in Ocala and receive ﬁnancial assistance from the RBOI-sponsored H.U.G.S. charities. Call us for more information about these resources and others, including RBOI’s cancer support groups.

Navigating Medicare

People 65 and older can enroll in Medicare or change their coverage during open enrollment, Oct. 15-Dec. 7, 2027. To help make sense of the many choices available, SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) provides free, unbiased webinars and confidential counseling to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers. SHINE is administered by Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs. Go to Floridashine.org or call (800) 963-5337 for more info. Want to know if Medicare covers your test or procedure? Go to https://www.medicare.gov/ coverage/is-your-test-item-orservice-covered to find out.

by the numbers

321,910 Estimated new cases of U.S. women’s breast cancer in 2026

13.0%

Mark Your Calendars

Join Amy Roberts, LCSW at RBOI, and Lisa McGuire, HCA Director of Oncology, to learn the Beneﬁts of Mindful Eating. When: Friday, October 23, 1-3pm Where: HCA Florida West Marion Physician Ofﬁce Building, 4600 SW 46th Court, Suite 240, Ocala RSVP by Wednesday, October 21: aroberts@rboi.com (352.732.0277) or Lisa.Mcguire@hcahealthcare.com

U.S. women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lifetime, based on 2021–2023 data

1 in 100 Frequency of breast cancer diagnosed in men

1.2%

Average annual drop in U.S. women’s deaths from breast cancer from 2015-2024

RBOI’s support services are available to the community free of charge, from before diagnosis through treatment and afterward, regardless of where you are being treated. Give us a call.

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

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Sales Representative RICK JIMENEZ Mike Killngsworth General Sales Manager TONY PAGANO MARYJANE & ENRIQUE MURPHY I would highly recommend Plaza Cadillac to anyone looking for a great car. I knew from the first time we spoke I was going to buy a car from Rick Jimenez. He was very detailed and knowledgeable about the car I inquired about, and we were pleased with the details and professionalism of how our deal was handled.

P L AZ A CA D I L L AC New Inventory Cars & SUVs

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Cadillac Certified Service

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Sales Representative SHERITTA SMITH General Sales Manager TONY PAGANO SUSAN & BOB KONIG Sheritta Smith helped us buy our new Corsair at Plaza Lincoln in Leesburg. She was amazingly patient showing us all the new features, helped us switch our insurance, and handled all of our needs. She is a most valuable asset to this dealership.

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UF Health

Brea Center C O M PA S S I O N AT E C A R E W I T H P E R S O N A L I Z E D T R E AT M E N T PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

ccording to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women in the United States - or about 12.5 percent of our country’s female population - will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. As of September 2026, there have been approximately 275,000 breast cancer diagnoses in the country this year. An estimated 42,140 U.S. women will die from breast cancer by the end of 2026. In Florida, the incidence is 133 cases per 100,000 women. Cases in

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Lake, Sumter and Marion counties are higher than the national baseline, which can be explained by the older demographics in our area. As startling as those numbers may be, there is good news. When breast cancer is localized and caught early, the five-year survival rate is over 99 percent. Early diagnosis can also mean less rigorous treatment for the patient. As of today, there are more than four million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.

LOCAL CARE UF Health has a team dedicated entirely to breast cancer care and

provides comprehensive care, start to finish, at their Breast Center located in The Villages inside of UF Health’s Spanish Plaines Hospital. In practical terms, this means Central Florida women facing breast cancer have access to the best care — and close to home. The multi-disciplinary team at UF Health Breast Center includes clinicians, geneticists, pathologists, breast surgeons, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists, in addition to skilled nursing and support staff. The team is led by Chand Rohatgi, M.D., a board-certified surgeon,

who specializes in management of cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the breast. “The detection rates among those having mammograms have improved as we embrace digital technology and AI,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “Once breast cancer is diagnosed, we have better treatment protocols today and protocols are improving yearly.” From the beginning, the goal at UF Health has been to streamline the care and treatment of women diagnosed with breast cancer, and to help protect women at high risk of developing breast cancer. “UF Health has a dedicated team of professionals who deal only with breast diseases and cancer; hence their expertise is far superior in terms of detection, treatment protocols in surgery, medical and radiation oncology,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “The support services needed by patients after their treatments are widely available. This translates to better care with less morbidity to the patient.”

When surgery is necessary, it is always designed to provide the most positive outcome for the patient. “At this time in breast cancer surgery, we are at a point nationally when we are attempting to do less with better results, and at UF Health, we have embraced it,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “This means less morbidity for the patient without compromising the results.”

“The detection rates among those having mammograms have improved as we embrace digital technology and AI.” DR. CHAND ROHATGI

PERSONALIZED CARE PLANS Breast cancer may affect many women, but each woman is an individual and treatment can differ significantly depending on each case. This is where the team approach at UF Health Breast Center comes into play. It’s not just about compassionate care; it’s about personalized treatment. Patients routinely say that their doctors at UF Health make them feel like an individual, not just another number. That is high praise to the Breast Center team as this is always their goal. “The whole team of professionals meets and discusses the patients at a single platform and decides the best pathway forward for each patient depending on each individual’s disease and risk,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “This again translates to better care.”

Among the newer technology and techniques used by UF Health surgeons are wireless driven lumpectomies which may allow the scar to be hidden.

Dr. Rohatgi explains that if full lymph node removal is needed, anastomotic surgery is available to counter the long-term effects. Newer reconstruction methods are available for cosmetic purposes. Radiation is being tailored for each patient based on their specific case.

TREATMENT OPTIONS For most patients with a breast cancer diagnosis, their journey begins when mammogram results come back abnormal. This is when the team approach of the experts at UF Health Breast Center goes into action. All UF Health breast cancer patients are given access to a nurse navigator to guide them through the process. Nurse navigators provide case management services, but their duties extend beyond the practical. These committed professionals also offer clinical and emotional support as long as the patient is undergoing treatment. Some patients require surgery combined with targeted therapy with radiation to eliminate cancer cells. Other patients may only require surgery. Still other patients may need different treatment, such as chemotherapy.

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breast center

AS A NATIONALLY ACCREDITED

UF HEALTH HAS THE LATEST INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY. AMONG THE EXTENSIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE: • Genetic counseling • Intraoperative radiation therapy using the Intrabeam system • Digital screening and diagnostic mammography (with ultrasound) • Comprehensive breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) • Fine needle aspiration • Ultrasound- and computer-guided stereotactic core biopsy • Breast-conserving surgery • Skin-sparing mastectomy • Nipple (areolar) skinsparing mastectomy • Breast reconstruction using natural tissue (TRAM, DIEP or SEIA flap microvascular surgery) • Breast reconstruction using implants • Prophylactic mastectomy with immediate reconstruction for women at high risk • Sentinel lymph node biopsy • Surgery for locally advanced or recurrent breast cancer • Chemotherapy (preoperative) • Partial breast irradiation, including: 3-D conformal, Interstitial and Mammosite • Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) • Stereotactic body radiotherapy

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Also offered are clinical studies involving the latest in targeted therapeutic medicines. “There are newer trials for chemotherapy, including targeted therapy,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “Immunotherapy and other treatments are also available.” “We have the technology at our disposal to detect lymphedema (swollen arms) at a much earlier stage where measures can be taken to stop its progression,” he says.

BE PROACTIVE Beginning in their 20s, all women should conduct regular breast self-exams. The American Cancer Society recommends women start annual screening for breast cancer at age 40, or possibly earlier, if your family has a history of breast cancer. It’s important to know your family history because having a mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer means you are almost twice as likely to develop this type of cancer yourself.

“There are newer trials for chemotherapy, including targeted therapy.” DR. CHAND ROHATGI

“The best way to find breast cancer today is still the screening mammogram but even the women who get yearly screening may find a lump in between two mammograms,” says Dr. Rohatgi. “If you have dense breasts, have family history or genetic mutations, or have had a high-risk biopsy, you should ask

your provider for more options, including ultrasound, MRI or contrast mammography.” Just over 65 percent of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at the localized stage, meaning before it has spread beyond the breast. Even when you are doing routine scans, be aware of your body and let your doctor know if you notice any unusual signs or changes. “A lump, nipple discharge, dimpling of skin should raise an alarm,” says Dr. Rohatgi. In addition to breast self-exams and annual screenings, regular exercise and a healthy diet should be part of every woman’s daily routine. “Survival rates continue to improve, and the rate of mammography surveillance has improved slightly but not all women are getting mammograms yearly,” says Dr. Rohatgi, adding that, “cancer is on the uptick in the younger population.” In fact, about 10 percent of the new cases of breast cancer in this country are diagnosed in women under age

45. When women younger than age 35 have an original diagnosis of breast cancer, they have a higher risk of recurrence.

EDUCATION AND ASSISTANCE Knowledge is power and UF Health is committed to providing education and support options for breast cancer patients and their families.

THIS INCLUDES: • Patient educators and resources • Personal wellness and rehabilitation programs • Nutrition counseling • Spiritual guidance • Palliative care • Home care • Prevention and screening • Support groups

“Survivorship meetings are held regularly with a navigator available at all times to all our patients,” says Dr. Rohatgi.

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH. If you have concerns following a recent screening, find unusual symptoms during breast self-exam, or simply want to schedule your annual screening, reach out to UF Health Breast Center today.

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600 E Dixie Ave, Leesburg, FL 34748 UF HEALTH SPANISH PLAINES HOSPITAL

1451 El Camino Real, The Villages, FL 32159

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AMENDM NT

SPOILER ALERT: Property taxes aren’t going away. STORY: CINDY PETERSON

roperty taxes have become one of Florida’s hottest political issues and when voters see Amendment 3 on their November ballot, the promise of relief may sound simple. The reality is more complicated. Amendment 3 would substantially reduce property taxes on qualifying homesteaded properties, but it would not eliminate property taxes altogether. School taxes would remain. Non-ad valorem assessments — charges that may appear on a tax bill for services such as solid waste or fire assessments — would remain. And the amendment applies differently depending on whether a

property is a primary residence, rental, second home or business. “It’s a reduction, but there is no elimination,” says Tyler Brandeburg, Chief Deputy of the Lake County Tax Collector’s Office. “Amendment 3 would substantially increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes and create a process that could allow the exemption to grow further in the future.” So what exactly are Floridians voting on? FIRST, THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION GETS MUCH BIGGER

For 2026, Florida homeowners who qualify for a homestead exemption receive a $25,000 exemption from school-district levies and a $51,411 exemption from most nonschool levies. Amendment 3 would increase the exemption for non-school property taxes to $150,000 beginning Jan. 1, 2027, then to $250,000 in 2028.

Beginning in 2029, that $250,000 amount would be adjusted for inflation. Think of the exemption as the portion of a home’s assessed value that local governments cannot tax. Consider a home with an assessed value of $250,000. Under the current system, a homeowner might have roughly $200,000 remaining subject to certain non-school property taxes after the standard exemption. With a $150,000 exemption, that taxable amount could fall to about $100,000. Once the exemption reaches $250,000, the homeowner could potentially have no remaining taxable value for those particular non-school levies. But that does not mean a zerodollar tax bill. School district property taxes are specifically excluded from the expanded exemption, meaning homeowners would continue paying those taxes based on the

applicable taxable value. Other assessments appearing on the bill may also continue. And nothing changes on the property taxes due this November. If approved, the amendment takes effect Jan. 1, 2027. IT’S ABOUT YOUR PRIMARY HOME

The largest benefit applies to homesteaded property, generally the home a Florida resident owns and uses as a permanent residence. Rental properties, second homes and commercial buildings do not receive the new $150,000 and $250,000 homestead exemptions. However, Amendment 3 also changes the rules for those properties. Currently, annual assessment increases on many non-homesteaded properties are capped at 10%. The amendment would lower that maximum increase to 5%.

That limits how quickly the assessed value used for taxation can rise, but it does not freeze the tax rate itself. That distinction matters because a property tax bill is based on more than the value of the property. Local governments also set millage rates — the tax charged for every $1,000 of taxable value. NEW RESIDENTS FACE A WAIT

Amendment 3 also creates a significant difference between current Floridians and those establishing residency later. People who are Florida residents by Dec. 31, 2026, and otherwise qualify would be eligible for the expanded exemption. Those who establish Florida residency after that date would initially receive the existing homestead exemption and would not qualify for the enhanced benefit until their fifth year of exemption, subject to federal constitutional requirements.

HOW AMENDMENT 3 EXPANDS THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION HOME VALUE

$150,000 $250,000 $400,000

STATUS

SCHOOL EXEMPTION (unchanged)

NON-SCHOOL EXEMPTION

TAXABLE VALUE

2026 LAW

$25,000

$51,411

$98,589

AMENDMENT 3

$25,000

$150,000

2026 LAW

$25,000

$51,411

$198,589

AMENDMENT 3

$25,000

$150,000

$100,000

2026 LAW

$25,000

$51,411

$348,589

AMENDMENT 3

$25,000

$150,000

$250,000

(2027)

(non-school)

WHEN WOULD THIS TAKE EFFECT? JANUARY 1, 2027 (First increase to $150,000)

JANUARY 1, 2028 (Increase to $250,000)

*SCHOOL EXEMPTION REMAINS $25,000 Current non-school exemption is $51,411 in 2026; Amendment 3 would provide up to $250,000 for non-school levies beginning in 2028.

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YES

Approves the expanded homestead exemption, 5% non-homestead assessment cap and five-year waiting period for newer residents.

That provision is intended to give the larger tax benefit first to established Florida residents. WHAT HAPPENS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT?

This is where the debate becomes considerably bigger than an individual homeowner’s tax bill. Property taxes are a major source of revenue for counties, municipalities and special districts, helping fund law enforcement, fire protection, roads, stormwater systems, parks, libraries, government operations and other services. Preliminary Lake County figures supplied using data from the Lake County Property Appraiser’s Office illustrate the potential size of the shift. Using current just values, the analysis estimates the taxable value available to Lake County’s general fund could decline about 19.5% in the first year under the $150,000 exemption and approximately 31.9% once the $250,000 exemption and 5% assessment cap are in effect. The effects vary by municipality. Preliminary estimates show Clermont’s taxable base falling about 16.5% initially and 28.5% in the second stage; Leesburg about 16.8% and 28.2%; Mount Dora about 17.6% and 30.5%; and Groveland about 21.6% and 37.9%.

Those figures represent reductions in taxable value, not necessarily identical percentage reductions in each government’s overall budget. Local governments have other revenue sources, and the estimates are preliminary. LAKE COUNTY’S TAX BASE HAS ALSO GROWN SUBSTANTIALLY

Lake County Property Appraiser records show the taxable value supporting the county general fund was about $16.27 billion in 2015. By 2025, it had grown to approximately $44.85 billion, an increase of about 176%. During roughly the same period, the Lake County BCC general-fund property-tax levy grew from about $86.3 million to $225.4 million, or approximately 161%. That growth provides important context for both sides of the debate. Supporters of tax relief point to rapidly rising values and local revenues. Local officials counter that population growth, inflation and the cost of providing services have also increased substantially.

Keeps the existing constitutional property-tax structure in place.

SUMTER COUNTY PREPARES FOR MAJOR CUTS

Sumter County has also experienced substantial growth in recent years. U.S. Census Bureau estimates put the county’s population at 157,772 in 2025, up from 129,752 at the 2020 Census — an increase of about 21.6% in just five years. That growth has brought more homes, development and taxable property, but it has also increased demand for county services and infrastructure. The competing effects are important context as county leaders consider how a significant reduction in propertytax revenue could affect a rapidly growing community. Sumter County officials say they are already planning for the possibility that Amendment 3 passes. County Commission Chairman Don Wiley says the Florida Association of Counties provided estimates showing Sumter could lose about $24 million from a roughly $120 million budget in the first stage of implementation. “We’ve been very proactive,” Wiley says.

He says the county began by identifying services required by state law, which account for the majority of county spending, then examining programs and staffing that are not legally mandated. Among the services under review are libraries, veterans services, animal services and other county operations. Wiley says the county’s working scenario includes eliminating approximately 52 positions, reducing animalservices staffing, closing all but three libraries, ending county veterans services and closing county facilities including the APEX building near County Road 466 and Morse Boulevard. Those are county planning assumptions if the amendment passes, not cuts mandated directly by Amendment 3. Wiley says the problem becomes more difficult because the second stage of the exemption would create another reduction the following year. “The first year is going to be tough,” he says. “Second year, that’s going to be even harder.” He says Sumter County cannot simply eliminate many of its largest responsibilities because services such as law enforcement and other core government functions are either legally required or protected under the amendment. “Would I like to see a decrease in property taxes?” he asks. “Absolutely. But this doesn’t work doing it this way. Too much too fast.” His broader warning to voters is straightforward: reductions in taxes may also mean reductions in services. WHERE WOULD THE MONEY COME FROM?

“What would be on the chopping block would be parks and recreation, libraries, trail systems, all the extra stuff that doesn’t directly affect day-to-day government, but does affect quality of life,” Tyler says. “The funding still has to come from somewhere.”

Amendment 3 does not itself dictate that libraries close, park fees rise or government employees lose jobs. It does, however, reduce the property tax base available to many local governments, leaving elected officials to balance the difference through some combination of spending reductions, different tax rates, other revenue sources or fees and assessments. “The amendment identifies categories for which counties and municipalities may use property-tax revenue, including public safety, infrastructure, natural resources, debt obligations, employee retirement benefits and government operations and administration,” says Rick Martin, Chief Administrative Officer at the Lake County Tax Collector’s Office. “It also permits other expenditures approved by the appropriate county officer or local governing body unless prohibited by general law. The practical effect of this provision may depend on future legislation and its implementation.” DESANTIS STILL SUPPORTS IT

Gov. Ron DeSantis has been a strong advocate for reducing property taxes, although he has acknowledged Amendment 3 is less aggressive than the approach he originally sought. During a recent appearance in The Villages, DeSantis described the measure as a significant tax cut and urged Floridians to support it. “I think everyone should vote for it,” DeSantis says, adding that he believes local governments can absorb reductions after years of increased revenue. He also suggested the state could consider grants for local governments facing legitimate difficulties after implementation. He has not withdrawn his support. DeSantis says the amendment is still “good for taxpayers” and that he intends to vote for it, but he has characterized his own proposal as part of a broader effort to move Florida closer to much deeper propertytax reductions.

Amendment 3 does not immediately eliminate non-school property taxes, but it creates a path toward further exemptions. The measure directs the Legislature to establish a uniform process that could eventually allow counties and municipalities to increase homestead exemptions up to the full assessed value. Special districts could do so with voter approval. WHAT A “YES” OR “NO” VOTE MEANS

A yes vote approves the expanded homestead exemption, lower assessmentgrowth cap for non-homestead property, five-year waiting period for certain newer residents and other changes contained in the amendment. A no vote keeps the existing constitutional property-tax structure in place. A simple majority is not enough. Amendment 3 must receive at least 60% of the statewide vote to pass. Whatever voters decide, one misconception can be cleared up before Election Day. The question on the ballot is not whether Floridians should pay property taxes or no property taxes. It is about who pays how much, which property is taxed and how Florida’s local governments will be funded going forward. THE BOTTOM LINE

Amendment 3 would not eliminate property taxes. It would determine how much of a homesteaded property’s value is taxable, how quickly non-homestead property assessments can rise for tax purposes and how Florida’s local governments may use remaining property-tax revenue.

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P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y V I P. C O M

At 40 and beyond, these business owners and community leaders bring more than experience. They bring purpose and a deep commitment to the place we call home. Through innovation and a people-first mindset, these 40 individuals are building stronger businesses and an even stronger community. PHOTOS: Nicole Hamel BIOS: Cindy Peterson, Roxanne Batriz, Gina Horan

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Lena Williams Age: 45 | Career: Real Estate Agent Company: Morris Realty & Investments My passion: I’ve spent 26 years as a real estate agent and what I love most is that so much of my business today comes from repeat clients and referrals, people who trusted me with one of the biggest decisions of their lives and came back or sent someone they love. Building that kind of trust over all these years means everything to me. My inspirations: Without question, my family. Work matters, but family is everything. My daughter Haley has taught me more about strength than anyone through her cancer diagnosis, my daughter Hannah showed a maturity beyond her years holding our family together while her sister fought and my husband Craig has always kept me grounded through it all. They’re the reason I keep going.

GloriaZ. Ebey Age: 50 Career: Entrepreneur, Community Educator & Senior Care Advocate Title/Company: Co-Founder & COO of Intentional Driven Women & IDW Foundation

A life reimagined: Moving to the United States from Colombia challenged me to start over, learn a new language and build a new life. Looking back, I'm most proud of combining that journey with a career dedicated to helping others. Seeing Intentional Driven Women and the IDW Foundation grow while creating scholarship opportunities for women and students has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my life. Lessons of success: One of the greatest lessons I've learned is that success is never a solo achievement. I've been blessed by people who believed in me, encouraged me and challenged me to grow, and I try to do the same for others every day. When we choose collaboration over competition and invest in the people around us, entire communities become stronger.

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Alisha Casamona Age: 42 | Career: Community Counselor, Equine Specialist Title/Company: Founder, Red Bird Cottage & Farm Proudest accomplishment: The accomplishment I’m most proud of is founding Red Bird Cottage & Farm after losing my father to COVID-19. Turning one of the most difficult experiences of my life into a place dedicated to healing has been incredibly meaningful. Seeing individuals, couples, families, and children find hope, growth, and restoration through the services we provide reminds me every day that even our greatest losses can become opportunities to help others. Greatest influence: My Christian faith in God has been the foundation of both my personal life and professional journey, guiding my desire to serve others with compassion, humility, and purpose. I have also been deeply influenced by the people I’ve had the privilege to walk alongside — clients, families, students, and hospice patients — whose resilience and courage continually remind me why this work matters. Their stories have shaped me into a better leader, counselor, and advocate.

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Danelle Hoffer Age: 58 Career: Real Estate Developer, Community Designer Title/Company: CEO & Founder, Urban Hideaway® Development Building community: Above all, I am most proud of my faith and my family. They are at the heart of everything I do and the foundation of every opportunity I've been blessed to pursue. Professionally, this feels like a defining moment. Huddle is moving into construction, while Aquilo, our proposed mixed-use waterfront development in downtown Eustis, represents the next evolution of our work. Both reflect what I believe thoughtful development can do—create places that bring people together and become catalysts for the communities around them.

A vision worth sharing: Have the courage to see possibility where others see only what exists today. The most meaningful development respects the character of a community while helping unlock what comes next. That requires vision, collaboration and the willingness to think beyond a single building. I believe the greatest measure of leadership isn't simply what you accomplish, but what you set in motion for the people and generations who come after you.

GeorgiaSkyers Age: 50 Career: Registered Nurse, Certified Sexuality Counselor, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Title/Company: Founder, EMANCIPATRIX: Women's Sexual Health & Wellness Alliance

Proudest accomplishment: Opening EMANCIPATRIX is the accomplishment I'm most proud of. It took more than 30 years of nursing, a lot of courage and a leap of faith to create a place where women can talk openly about menopause, pelvic pain, intimacy and other topics that are too often ignored. Nothing is more rewarding than hearing a woman say, "I thought I was the only one." Learning to listen: I've learned that the most meaningful work begins by listening. Whether I'm caring for patients, speaking to community groups or supporting survivors of sexual assault as a SANE nurse, my goal is to help women feel seen, heard and understood. When people know someone is willing to listen without judgment, healing can truly begin.

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Dr. Shireen Dhanani Age: 54 | Career: Dentistry Title/Company: Founder, My Dental Touch & My Wellness Studio Proudest accomplishment: I'm most proud of building an integrated model of care that connects oral health, medical aesthetics and total wellness under one philosophy and one roof. My goal has always been to help patients function better, feel better and enjoy a higher quality of life. Whether I'm relieving pain, restoring a smile or improving confidence, I believe treating the whole person creates the best outcomes. What sets me apart: The way I listen. Before discussing treatment, I take the time to understand what each patient is experiencing because those conversations often reveal the root cause behind the concern that brought them to my office. My patients have taught me that compassionate care begins with listening, and my advice is simple: lead with curiosity, never stop learning and always build relationships first.

Roxanne

Theodoropoulos

Age: 43 Career: Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Wealth Manager, Entrepreneur Title/Company: Founder & CEO, CapstoneWealth Where I started: As a little girl working in the cotton fields of Texas, I dreamed of a bigger future, even though I couldn't imagine what it would look like. Through faith, discipline and perseverance, I went on to advise some of our nation's highest-ranking military leaders before founding CapstoneWealth. My greatest accomplishment isn't the titles I've earned or the business I've built. It's proving that where you begin never has to determine where you finish. Guiding principle: My faith has been the foundation of every step in my journey, giving me the courage to walk through doors that once seemed impossible. My advice is simple: never let fear make your decisions. Stay humble enough to keep learning, courageous enough to take the next step and trust that perseverance often leads to life's greatest blessings.

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LisaRojas

Age: 59 Career: Entrepreneur, Commercial Printing, Engraving & Awards Title/Company: Owner, A Plus Printing; Owner, Victory Engraving & Awards Building on a legacy: One of my proudest professional accomplishments has been purchasing Victory Engraving & Awards and bringing it together with A Plus Printing. I'm proud to continue the legacy of a longtime local business while expanding what we can offer our customers and creating new opportunities to serve the community. Giving back: I've always believed being a local business owner means supporting the community that supports you. Through my businesses, I've been able to help local schools, sports teams, nonprofits, fundraisers and community organizations through sponsorships, donations, awards, printing and other services. I'm proud that the work I do every day also gives me a way to help others.

RickRojas Age: 59 Career: Building Contractor & Land Developer Title/Company: Owner & President, RJ Builders, Inc.

My passion: Building has been my passion since I was 10 years old, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have turned that dream into a career. As a statecertified building contractor, I specialize in custom homes, commercial construction and land development. The most rewarding part of my work is seeing families move into a home that began as an idea and became a place where memories are made. A foundation of service: Professionally, I'm proud to have been the first builder in Lake County to earn first-place honors in the Parade of Homes six consecutive years from the start of my company. Personally, one of my greatest accomplishments has been giving back to the community where I grew up, including building two homes that benefited the Lake-Sumter State College Foundation. My advice is to stay true to your faith, your values and your dreams, remain humble, treat others with respect and never stop learning.

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Lisa Johnson

Age: 60 | Career: Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner, Blue Ribbon Bakery

Proudest accomplishment: I'm most proud of building Blue Ribbon Bakery from a simple idea into an award-winning business that has become part of the Leesburg community. What began as baking sourdough to help my mother has grown into something much bigger, allowing me to share my passion for traditional baking, educate others and build relationships with customers who have become like family. Words to live by: Don't wait for the perfect moment to chase your dream. Start where you are, keep learning and trust the process. Success isn't measured only by what you accomplish, but by the lives you touch and the community you help build along the way.

Steve McDonald Age: 50 | Career: Trade Association Management Title/Company: CEO, REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties Making an impact: I have loved calling Lake County home for the past four years and have been intentional about investing in the community I serve. Through Leadership Lake, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake and Sumter Counties as well as Habitat for Humanity builds, waterway cleanups and other local initiatives like Lake 100. I've worked to support the people and organizations that make this community such a special place to live and work. Whether through volunteer service or my role with the REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties, I'm committed to helping our communities continue to grow and thrive. Words to live by: Be curious, stay humble and never stop learning. Some of the greatest opportunities in my career came from mentors who believed in me and from being willing to serve before seeking recognition. If you focus on adding value, building genuine relationships and helping others succeed, you'll build a career that's meaningful long after the titles change.

David Booth Age: 54 | Career: Veteran Advocate Title/Company: Founder & CEO, Combat Veterans to Careers

My new mission: After serving 20 years in the military, including combat deployments, I found a new mission by founding Combat Veterans to Careers. What began as a way to help fellow veterans transition to civilian life has also been a source of healing for me, allowing me to turn my own experiences into hope, purpose and opportunity for others. Service never ends: The veterans I've had the privilege of serving continue to inspire me every day. Their resilience and determination remind me that rebuilding a life takes courage, and I'm honored to help provide the resources and support they need to succeed. My advice is simple: get involved in your community. When you invest your time in helping others, you not only change lives, you grow as a leader yourself.

J BrianMiles Age: 43 | Career: Digital Media Title/Company: Owner, SouthLake.TV & WestOrange.TV Finding the good: I'm proud to use SouthLake.TV and WestOrange.TV to shine a spotlight on the people, businesses and organizations that make our community special. Every story is an opportunity to celebrate the positive things happening around us while helping local businesses and nonprofits grow. Knowing that my work helps connect people and strengthen the community is what motivates me every day. The power of discipline: My mom has been the greatest influence on my life. She worked multiple jobs to provide for our family and taught me the value of hard work, discipline and perseverance. Her example shaped the way I approach both life and business. My advice is simple: be disciplined more than you're inspired. Inspiration comes and goes, but discipline is what helps you achieve your goals.

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Sandi Moore Age: 53 | Career: Community Development Title/Company: President & CEO, Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Building connections: I believe that community is built through relationships. As president and CEO of the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce, I have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, connect businesses with resources and help develop the next generation of leaders. I love seeing what can happen when the right people come together with a shared desire to make Leesburg a better place. Proudest accomplishment: Without question, my greatest accomplishment is raising my two sons. My oldest serves our country in the U.S. Army, and my youngest serves our community as a firefighter/EMT for the City of Leesburg. While I'm proud of what I've accomplished professionally, nothing compares to watching them grow into men of character, integrity and service.

Lt. KellyStone Age: 51 | Career: Law Enforcement Title/Company: Lieutenant, Lake County Sheriff's Office, South Lake District

Family first: Nothing I have accomplished professionally means more to me than my family. My husband serves as a sergeant with the Clermont Police Department, and my daughter, Keileigh, is working toward her RN degree. Watching her pursue a career centered on helping others has been one of my greatest joys and reminds me every day why service matters. Leading by example: Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to learn from mentors who challenged me to grow and believed in me even when I questioned myself. They taught me that leadership isn't about rank. It's about integrity, accountability and earning the trust of those around you. Their example shaped the leader I strive to be, and I hope to pass those lessons on to the next generation.

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AngieScullion

Age: 41 | Career: Nonprofit Work Title/Company: Founder & Executive Director, The Care Closet, Inc. Proudest accomplishment: The accomplishment I am most proud of is establishing our partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank. The Care Closet was created to fill a unique gap — we are not a traditional food pantry, but a school-based program designed to provide consistent food support to students and their families beyond the school day. Becoming a Second Harvest partner was a milestone that validated the work we had been doing and affirmed that our processes, mission and commitment to serving families were aligned with the highest standards of food assistance. It was a moment that showed me our small idea had grown into an organization truly making a lasting impact in our community. My advice: You’ll never be ready and that’s okay! The biggest opportunities for impact often come from simply seeing a need and having the courage to say, “Someone should do something about this” and then realizing you can be that someone.

Andy Price Age: 57 | Career: Power Line Industry Title/Company: CEO, American Safety Utility Corporation; Founder, International Lineman Museum and Hall of Fame I’m most passionate about: My career because the equipment we sell helps build and maintain power lines that keep communities connected. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that our products play a role in restoring electricity after hurricanes and severe storms. It's incredibly fulfilling to support the crews who work tirelessly to get the power back on, helping families, businesses, hospitals and entire communities recover when they need it most. Knowing that the work I do contributes to that mission gives me a strong sense of purpose every day. Greatest professional accomplishment: Founding the International Lineman Museum and Hall of Fame. I created it to preserve the history of the electric utility industry and to honor the linemen whose hard work, innovation and dedication built the power grid we rely on today. Electricity transformed the world, changing the way we live, work, communicate, and grow as a society. The museum ensures that the stories and contributions of the men and women who made that transformation possible are preserved for future generations. Being able to honor their legacy and educate others about the industry's history is one of the most meaningful achievements of my career.

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AmyEster Age: 43 | Career: Family Nurse Practitioner Title/Company: Owner, Anchored in Health, FNP-C Career accomplishments: Building Anchored in Health has been one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my life, because it reflects every part of who I am: my faith, my years of military service and my belief that healthcare is at its best when it’s grounded in real relationships. My time in the Army taught me discipline, resilience and what it means to serve people with humility and purpose, and those lessons have shaped the way I care for my patients today, especially the veterans whose stories mirror so much of my own. Anchored in Health is more than a practice to me; it’s the fulfillment of a promise I made long ago to show up for people in a way that honors their dignity, their struggles and their hope for a healthier life. Greatest influence: My husband standing beside me with a kind of support that is steady, selfless and unwavering. From the very beginning, he believed in my calling even on the days when I struggled to believe in it myself. My children have also been one of my greatest influences, inspiring me every day to show them what grit, determination, and hard work truly look like.

KarenIvison

Age: 57 | Career: Healthcare Title/Company: Manager of Volunteer Services, AdventHealth Waterman

Greatest accomplishments: Expanding AdventHealth Waterman’s Teen Summer Volunteer Program. What began as a smaller program has grown into a meaningful opportunity for dozens of students each year to gain exposure to healthcare careers, develop leadership skills and learn the value of service. Watching young volunteers gain confidence, discover their passions and pursue careers in healthcare has been incredibly rewarding. I am also proud to have earned my Certified Director of Volunteer Services credential through the Society for Healthcare Volunteer Leaders. The greatest legacy we can leave is helping others succeed. Making an impact: Since becoming Manager of Volunteer Services in 2022, I have focused on building an inclusive volunteer program that welcomes people from all walks of life and abilities, helping them find meaningful roles where they can make a difference. I am especially proud to serve as Program Manager for Project SEARCH, a workforce development program that helps young adults with disabilities gain valuable job skills and work experience.

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Hugh Gravitt IV Age: 41 Career: Healthcare Executive, Nonprofit Work, U.S. Navy Veteran Title/Company: Founder & Executive Director, Reforged Foundation; Executive Director, Village Heart & Vein Greatest accomplishment: Founding Reforged Foundation is the accomplishment I am most proud of. After navigating one of the most difficult seasons of my own life, I realized my purpose was to help veterans before they become another statistic. Seeing veterans build confidence, improve their health, strengthen their faith and reconnect with a supportive community reminds me that our greatest struggles can become someone else’s hope. Greatest influence: My wife, Lori, has been my greatest source of encouragement, accountability and strength throughout every season of my life. More recently, finding God has completely changed my perspective on leadership, success and service. I am still learning and growing in my faith every day, but it has taught me that true leadership is about serving others with humility, integrity and purpose.

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NatalieKahler

Age: 54 | Career: Community Development Title/Company: Executive Director, Clermont Main Street

My passion: Every place we live has a unique personality and Clermont Main Street has the best mission—we help people find ways to volunteer locally doing things they love! Whether it's our new "With Love from Clermont" paint project, our Clermont On Screen movie celebrations or our Anime Nights, we try to have a wide variety of ways people can engage with our community. My favorite task is identifying the city’s special traits, highlighting them and using that to help people fall in love with it. My best advice: Spend time cultivating your strengths instead of focusing on your weaknesses. You are the only you that has ever walked this planet so your contributions are guaranteed to be unique if you stay true to your gifts and interests.

CharleneJenkins Age: 62 Career: Registered Financial Consultant, Certified Estate Planner, Licensed Life, Annuity & Health Agent Title/Company: CEO, Jenkins Wealth & Retirement Solutions, a faith-based company Accomplishments I am most passionate about: My faith in God and assisting others to secure their finances so that they have a stress-free retirement. Also, I'm proud of my two daughters and my four grandbabies who have always been there to help me in whatever I do. They are my heart and my greatest accomplishments. My best advice to others: Always keep God your first priority. Follow your passions, get involved in your community, volunteer for things you love to do, don't let the fear of something keep you from reaching your dreams.

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Shawna Pancari Age: 48 | Career: Business/Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner, The Social Cellar Proudest accomplishment: Without question, my greatest accomplishment is being a mother and raising my children. They have taught me more about patience, resilience, unconditional love and leadership than any career ever could. While I’m proud of the businesses I’ve built and the goals I’ve achieved, nothing compares to watching my children grow into the people they are today. They are, and always will be, my greatest success.

KimberlyGrogan Age: 47 | Career: Business/ Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner, Dash Sports Clermont; Owner, Dash Sports Winter Garden Proudest accomplishment: I’m most proud of building Dash Sports into a business that has become a trusted resource for our community over the past 20 years. While awards and milestones like earning more than 1,000 five-star Google reviews are meaningful, what means the most is knowing we’ve made a positive difference in people’s lives by helping them move better, feel better, and achieve goals they never thought possible. Ultimately, we want to help people live actively! My advice: Be willing to show up, work hard, and genuinely care about the people you serve. Success isn’t built overnight — it’s earned through consistency, kindness, and a commitment to making your community better than you found it. When you focus on helping others succeed, your own success will naturally follow.

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My advice: Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from pursuing your dreams. Some of life’s greatest opportunities begin with taking a chance on yourself. I’ve learned that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Some of life’s greatest opportunities come after 40, when you have the confidence to trust your instincts and pursue the dreams you’ve put on hold. Lead with integrity, treat people well and remember that the relationships you build and the reputation you earn will always be your greatest assets.

Cathie Catasus Age: 55 Career: Environmental Services, Event Planning and Volunteering Title/Company: Program Manager, Parks and Water Resources, Lake County

About my career: I have worked in Water Resources for Lake County Government for nearly 30 years. I also own a small event planning business. In my free time, I love to volunteer, whether it be with my therapy dog, as president of Trout Lake Nature Center or giving back to my community. I am passionate about helping others and educating about the environment. Greatest influence: I would have to say wanting to make a difference in my community has been my greatest influence on my leadership journey. Participating in the Leadership Lake program in 2024 was also very inspirational and informative. My “who” would have to be my mom. When I was a child, my mom would volunteer at my school in the lunchroom and the library. She would volunteer to chaperone field trips and help out where needed. Her example showed me how to give back to others.

BethMerrick Age: 55 | Career: Business/Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner, Sunshine Book Co. About my career: I own and operate Sunshine Book Co. and support all aspects of the business, including inventory, stock, event planning, social media, communications and accounting. The aspect I am most passionate about is the opportunity to serve our community through connection. Through the bookstore, we often jump in to offer donations and discounts to local schools and organizations. We have coordinated author visits and field trips, secured books for nonprofits at negotiated prices with publishers and maintain a Little Free Library on site. Greatest influence: I definitely lead with the philosophy of servant leadership. My career with Disney has influenced me in many ways, including leadership, guest service, showmanship, integrity and an inclusive approach to our business. At the core, my mom instilled a love of reading right from the start.

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DonnaKirtland

Age: 54 | Career: Nonprofit & Philanthropic Leadership Title/Company: Executive Director, Live Well Foundation of South Lake Proudest moment: In Lake County it’s an honor to lead and serve alongside 12 dedicated community board members to form the Live Well Foundation of South Lake. This is a health conversion foundation that has, over the last seven years, invested in the community and distributed over $70 million to nonprofit organizations for our South Lake County residents. LWFSL stewards a substantial investment portfolio, allowing the foundation to support impactful projects and invest in initiatives that enhance the health and wellness of the South Lake County community. Greatest influence: The greatest influence on my success and leadership journey has been a combination of education, life experiences and exceptional mentors. Because of her resilience, entrepreneurial spirit and determination, my grandmother Delores Johnson was one of my earliest leadership role models. She saw opportunities. The strength of this single mother raising seven children, then transforming what many would have viewed as a limitation into a strength, led to her building a successful 60-child daycare business.

SteveSmith

Age: 79 | Career: Change Maker, Nonprofit Work Title/Company: Executive Director, New Beginnings of Central Florida Positive impact: In 2012, I met the vice president of Florida Housing, who served with me on the State Council on Homelessness. He suggested New Beginnings consider developing a large affordable housing community that Florida Housing could possibly finance. After six years of negotiating with a landowner, winning over neighboring homeowners, securing state and county financing and selecting contractors, we opened

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Woodwinds in 2018 with 96 affordable apartments. I am especially proud that Woodwinds has two social workers on site providing after-school care for schoolage students, financial and job enhancement training for adults and counseling when job loss, family or medical issues occur. My advice: Let God lead, and learn to be patient, pleasantly persistent and never give up!

KortnieLynch Age: 45 | Career: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Title/Company: Owner, Next Right Thing Behavioral Health Proudest accomplishment: Professionally, I’m most proud of helping people find a new way to live. Watching someone overcome addiction or mental illness and begin to thrive is incredibly rewarding. Personally, I’m most proud of being a mother. My daughter inspires me every day to become the best version of myself and reminds me why the work I do matters. Greatest influence: My daughter has been my greatest inspiration. I want her to grow up knowing that with hard work, perseverance and compassion, she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. I’m also deeply grateful for the people who supported me throughout my own recovery journey and continue to encourage me today. Their belief in me has shaped the way I lead and serve others.

J.J. Dahl

Esquire

Age: 58 | Career: Board Certified Marital and Family Law Attorney Title/Company: Owner & President, Dahl Family Law Group; Founder, Women’s Giving Alliance Career accomplishments: I am most proud of serving my community for more than 35 years. Throughout my career, I have been honored to earn Board Certification in Marital and Family Law in 2004, become a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers in 2016, and achieve certification through the National Board of Trial Advocacy in 2021. I have also had the privilege of serving on the Judicial Nominating Commission and providing over three hundred pro bono hours for orphans and widows for which I have received the highest award from the Florida Supreme Court. These milestones reflect my ongoing commitment to excellence, professionalism, and service to both my clients and the legal community.

Positive impacts: Giving back to my community has always been an important part of my life. Besides pro bono services to the most vulnerable population, I was one of the founding members of the Women's Giving Alliance in 2014, an organization dedicated to supporting meaningful initiatives that improve the lives of local women and children in South Lake County. Over the years, I have also been a corporate sponsor of numerous local charitable organizations, local school Athletic departments and local non-profits, with a focus on homelessness and rehabilitation. I remain actively involved in my church, where I continue to support and serve my community.

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JeffFoley Age: 55 Career: Communications/Public Relations, Author Title/Company: Communications Director, Lake County My passion: In my role as Communications Director for Lake County, I strive to help residents better understand the work their local government does every day. I am passionate about storytelling, service and helping people see the humanity behind the work. Greatest career influences: My faith, my family and the difficult seasons of my life have had the greatest influence on my leadership journey. My wife and children remind me daily that leadership is about responsibility, consistency, patience, and love. My cancer journey has also changed the way I see success. It has taught me the importance of simply showing up each day, of valuing people and of promoting hope.

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JoeZiler

Age: 60 | Career: Retired Homebuilder, Nonprofit Work Title/Company: Founder, MIKE (Mental Illness and Kindness Endowment) Greatest accomplishment: While I’m proud of building a successful company, I’m even more proud of what that success has allowed me to do for others. Through the Mental Illness and Kindness Endowment (MIKE), we’ve been able to provide counseling, support local nonprofits, and help individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. To me, success isn’t measured by what you accumulate, but by how much you give back and the lives you positively impact. My advice: Work hard, stay humble, and never lose sight of what really matters. The most successful people in any community are those who give back, not because they expect something in return, but because they understand that doing good creates more good. If you have the ability to make a difference, you have the responsibility to do so.

Deborah

“Deb” Jayne Age: 60 | Career: Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner, Bases Loaded Consulting Group; Founder, The Booby Trap Foundation

Greatest accomplishment: While I am incredibly honored that Bases Loaded Consulting Group was named Small Business of the Year by the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce in 2023, my greatest accomplishment has been founding The Booby Trap Foundation. My breast cancer journey changed the course of my life, but it also gave me a greater purpose. What was once one of the hardest seasons of my life has become a mission to bring hope, comfort and support to women recovering from breast cancer. Knowing that my experience can help someone else is the accomplishment I am most proud of. Making an impact: I believe in giving back to the community that has given so much to me. Through my work with the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Keep Lake Beautiful, Leesburg in Bloom, The Rock Church USA, Sunrise Rotary Club of Leesburg and other community organizations and local nonprofits, I’ve helped strengthen connections among businesses while supporting events and initiatives that bring people together.

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Meredith Murdock Age: 51 | Career: Botanical Pharmaceutical Company Title/Company: Founder & CEO, Faeve Proudest accomplishment: I'm most proud of taking plant based analgesic Kevo-Prophen through the FDA's over-thecounter drug approval pathway. We voluntarily stopped all sales and marketing in 2024 to complete the compliance process the right way, even though it meant giving up our revenue. Building a company for my children and creating something that will last long after me means more than any financial success.

JamieHaines

Age: 55 | Career: Physical therapy Title/Company: Board Certified Neurologic Physical Therapist, Achieve Wellness and Physical Therapy I’m most proud of: Helping people with neurologic conditions—including Parkinson's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury—maximize their mobility, independence, and quality of life. I am driven by bringing the latest evidence-based research, education, and treatment strategies directly to my patients, empowering them with the knowledge, exercise, equipment, and resources they need to achieve their goals. The most rewarding part of my work is coaching people to move with greater confidence, maintain their independence, and continue doing the things that matter most to them. Positive impacts: I provide mobile outpatient neurologic physical therapy, allowing me to meet clients where they are and help them achieve meaningful goals in the comfort of their own homes. Beyond individual care, I enjoy sharing education with local support groups and clubs throughout The Villages, helping people with neurologic conditions, and their caregivers, better understand how exercise, movement and lifestyle strategies can improve quality of life.

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Words to live by: Don't be afraid to take the harder path if it's the right one. You don't have to have all the answers, but you do need to know the right questions. Listen more than you talk, keep learning and never let something that seems impossible stop you from trying.

Dianne Garvis

Age: 66 | Career: Singer, Motivational Speaker, Author Title/Company: Founder, The Good Neighbor Program, Inc.; Founder, Tiaras of Hope

I’m most passionate about: As a singer, songwriter, motivational speaker, and published author, the mission of my heart is to transform each day into a blessing for others. Through my music, books, and speaking engagements, I weave messages of hope, faith, and encouragement, reminding everyone of their intrinsic worth and beauty. I founded Tiaras of Hope, a global initiative that crowns those battling life-altering illnesses, symbolizing the promise of beauty from ashes as inspired by Isaiah 61:3. Career accomplishments: Since 1999, my husband and I have dedicated ourselves to “The Good Neighbor Program, inc.,” a ministry rooted in the simple yet profound mission of neighbors helping neighbors. We’ve completed extreme home makeovers for families in crisis, distributed thousands of blankets during national disasters, and provided warmth on frigid local nights. Through concerts, motivational speaking, and outreach, I strive to cultivate a sense of community and hope, inviting people to unite as neighbors did in the timeless tradition of barn raisings.

TanyaMeyer Age: 55 | Career: Animal Rescue, Job Placement Title/Company: Owner, Hoffmeyer Animal Rescue; President, ACE Staffing Unlimited, Inc. My passion: I volunteer at my animal rescue 7 days a week along with taking care of the most critical in my personal home while overseeing the administrative side of my staffing company. Saving animals and helping people who truly want to work find jobs are both so important to me. Proudest moment: I find it particularly rewarding when we

dismantle and break down an animal hoard. Getting animals into safer environments while giving the hoarder their home and life back is particularly rewarding. Also, working with the homeless camps to provide much needed vet care and food to the pets that live in the camps is also very important to me. I care very much for the homeless pets and their owners and do everything I can to help improve their lives.

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HeatherLong

Age: 56 | Career: Healthcare Executive Title/Company: Senior Vice President & Regional President, UF Health Central Florida

Greatest influence: The greatest influence on my leadership journey has been the people I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside and the patients who’ve entrusted us with their care. Every step of my journey, from the bedside to the boardroom, has reinforced that leadership begins with listening, showing up for others and never losing sight of the fact that every decision we make has the power to change someone’s life. Caring for people during some of their most vulnerable moments is an incredible responsibility — one that continues to inspire and humble me every day. My advice: Lead with integrity, stay curious and never stop learning. Success isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about surrounding yourself with great people, being willing to listen and having the courage to make decisions that serve something larger than yourself. When you keep people at the heart of every decision, success becomes less about what you achieve and more about the difference you make.

Rosanne Brandeburg Age: 64 Career: Community Engagement, Public Relations Title/Company: Business Development Director, Insight Credit Union My passion: We are fortunate to live in an area that provides me with so many opportunities to help develop our community. Collaborating with people stirs my passion for bridging the needs to enhance our quality of life. Throughout my career, my journey started in healthcare, public relations and marketing, to Executive Director of the LakeSumter State College Foundation and being elected to serve 8 years on the Lake County School Board. For the past nine years, I’ve continued to engage with so many amazing people and organizations in my position with Insight Credit Union. Career accomplishment: Being able to raise money to support students wanting to achieve their college degree and the impact this has made. It has been said we can have many things taken from us, but no one can ever take away our education.

Omar Contreras Age: 46 Career: Business/Entrepreneur Title/Company: Owner & Operator, Omar’s Painting, Inc.

Greatest accomplishments: I came from México 27 years ago and since then, God blessed me with so many people surrounding my path. He has also guided me through this journey and blessing me with the heart to be a blessing to others through the painting business. Personally, I am proud of my 2 sons, Omar Jr and Levi and I thank God every day for giving me the opportunity to be their father and teach them to never give up on theirs dreams. My best advice: Never give up on your faith and always trust in God. He will always guide us through everything we do and that’s what makes you successful.

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PRESSURE WASHING OR SOFT WASHING? What Is Right for Your Home? hen homeowners notice dirt, algae, mildew, or dark streaks, they often assume pressure washing is the answer. But not every surface can handle high pressure, and using it universally can cause unnecessary damage to your property. The best method depends on the surface, its condition, and the type of buildup being removed. UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

Pressure washing uses the force of water to loosen and remove heavy dirt, grime, and buildup. When performed correctly, it is highly effective on durable surfaces like concrete driveways, sidewalks, and certain masonry areas. Soft washing is different. It combines professional cleaning solutions with a low-pressure rinse to treat organic growth at its source. The gentler pressure makes it the preferred method of painted siding, stucco, vinyl, and many roof systems.

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PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

The goal is not simply to blast away what is visible; it is to select the appropriate process for each surface. PROTECTING YOUR HOME AND PROPERTY VALUE

Too much pressure can damage paint, scar siding, force water behind exterior materials, loosen seals, and harm roofing components. Damage may not be immediately obvious, but it can eventually lead to costly repairs. A properly performed soft wash removes algae, mildew, and buildup while helping protect the home’s finishes. Regular exterior cleaning improves curb appeal, helps prevent permanent staining, and enhances the property’s appearance and value. Before any work begins, plants, landscaping, electrical outlets, doors, windows, and surrounding areas should be inspected and protected.

automatically using the strongest pressure available. At US Pressure Clean, every property is evaluated to select the appropriate equipment, cleaning solution, pressure level, and safety precautions. Our process includes an inspection before service, protection of surrounding areas, professional cleaning, careful rinsing, and a final quality review. Before-andafter photographs document the work and give homeowners confidence that the service was completed properly. The result is more than a cleaner exterior, it is carefully maintained properly handled by professionals who understand the difference.

THE PROFESSIONAL DIFFERENCE

Professional exterior cleaning starts with choosing the right method, not

1.800.444.6387 uspressureclean.com

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Theresa Morris

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Broker/Owner

352.360.3736

Theresa@MorrisRealtors.com Theresa sells a property every 29 working hours!

FABULOUS BUILDING LOT Guard gated, all age Golfing Community! Bring your own builder! Start today the home you’ve always envisioned on this beautiful approximate HALF ACRE vacant lot in the highly desirable community minutes to The Villages...Nestled within a secure and side walked neighborhood, this spacious homesite offers the perfect setting to create your custom dream home while enjoying a peaceful and scenic lifestyle. Experience the benefits of living in a premier community, with beautifully maintained surroundings and exceptional amenities nearby. Best of all, no social membership to clubhouse is mandatory, giving you the freedom to enjoy the community at your own pace. $89,900.

ROOM TO ROAM ON 6 ACRES! Experience the freedom of country living with no HOA and a prime location just minutes from The Villages. Bring your horses, cattle, chickens, and outdoor dreams—this agriculturally zoned, fully fenced and cross-fenced property is ready for it all. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, gentle evening breezes, and peaceful pasture views from the screened front porch. Inside, the popular great room design offers an inviting space for gathering, while the spacious kitchen features abundant cabinetry and a center island perfect for entertaining. The seller will provide a brand-new private well prior to closing, adding even more value and peace of mind. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own your own slice of Florida countryside—schedule your private showing today and start living the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about! $374,900.

AFFORDABLE HOME...IN TOWN LOCATION! Three bedrooms with Central Air and Heat Strips. One car carport and laundry room that convey a washer and Gas Dryer. New Drain field to Washer installed to code in March 2026. Huge unfinished Bonus Room ready for you to easily complete for additional living space! Detached shed/ workshop with electric. Property has passed a 4-point inspection and ready for you to call this YOUR HOME!! $199,900.

8 PLUS ACRES...RESIDENTIAL HOME...consists of a 7. 5-acre parcel PLUS an additional .95 of one-acre separate lot of record!! Do not miss this “one of a kind” opportunity with so many possibilities to offer. This previous peach farm offers approximate 1 mile of underground pipeline for your future garden/ farm with a commercial grade Well for irrigation. Barn/ Workshop with a 220 AMP electric and contents convey with all the equipment to maintain property and get you started on your very own personal farm!! Main house, with its own separate well has been remodeled and features wood beams throughout, double pane Anderson windows with 3 large bedrooms and 2 baths (include a fabulous claw foot tub with handheld shower) plus an attached 2 car garage. Enjoy two large decks and screen porch with a custom grill built in great for entertaining! $619,000.

CHAIN OF LAKES ACCESS… AFFORDABLE HOME! Move in right away and bring your boat! Community ramp and dock available within walking distance …Roof replaced approximately year 2022 and HVAC in 2017...Yay! Welcome home to comfort, space, and easy living! The spacious living and oversized dining areas feature attractive wood-look laminate flooring, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen offers newer appliances, including a smoothtop range, stainless steel side-by-side refrigerator with bottom freezer, and dishwasher, along with abundant cabinetry, an appliance garage, closet pantry, and charming breakfast nook with built-in seating bar. Step outside and relax on the large, screened porch overlooking the oversized backyard—perfect for entertaining, pets, gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors. A detached 11’ x 10’ shed with electric provides excellent workshop space for the handyman or additional storage. $275,000.

integrity // experience // results

RESORT STYLE LIVING! Golf-front home with owned SOLAR POWER—a $26,000 upgrade installed in 2022, keeping electric bills at an average of just $50/ month! SELLER TO PAY BUYERS $15,000 GOLF/SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP INITIATION FEE!! Located in the highly sought-after Las Colinas community at Mission Inn Resort, this stunning Spanish Mediterranean home overlooks the 8th fairway and offers exceptional curb appeal with lush landscaping, a tile roof, paver driveway, and impressive 8-foot mahogany entry door. With 2138 square feet of living area, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 2 CAR PLUS GOLF CART GARAGE- provides both comfort and functionality, perfectly positioned to enjoy privacy with serene golf course views. $634,900.

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Lynn Haynes Multi-Million Dollar Producer

WELCOME HOME to a space that feels warm, inviting, and ready to be filled with memories. Inside you’ll find a large foyer that welcomes you in, along with a separate dining room perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or hosting friends. The living room is full of charm with a wood-burning fireplace and French doors that lead out to the screened porch. The primary bedroom offers its own peaceful retreat with French doors that open to the screened patio, along with a spacious bathroom and walk-in closet. The two additional bedrooms and bathroom are located on the opposite side of the home, providing great privacy for family or guests. Located in the Westgate community with access to a community dock on Lake Eustis, you’ll also enjoy peace of mind with a roof and AC that are only two years old, plus a brand new hot water heater ready to be installed.

4-BEDROOM POOL HOME on a spacious half-acre lot is ready to be yours! Two of four bedrooms with en suite bathrooms offering a flexible layout perfect for both comfort and privacy. Enjoy two separate living areas, including a bright and open main living room with a wood-burning fireplace that flows seamlessly into the kitchen, complete with pool views, space for a dining table, and additional seating at the bar. The additional living room is located right off the front door and can easily serve as a formal living room, home office, or playroom. Step outside through sliding glass doors to your private pool area, featuring a screened birdcage and covered lanai. Situated on a generously sized lot on a bend, there’s plenty of room for gardening, play, or bringing your vision to life. Roof replaced December 20, 2018.

352.516.0903

Lynn@LynnHaynesSellsFlorida.com

A PILOT’S DREAM COMMUNITY Loves Landing is a premier gated fly-in community where aviation and country living come together. This vacant lot measures approximately 180 ft by 150 ft and is ideally suited for building your custom home and private aircraft hangar, with direct access to one of two private airstrips. The nicely shaped lot offers a tranquil pond view and provides the perfect setting for your future dream home. Residents enjoy privacy, security, and a strong aviationfocused community. Aviation Details: FAA Identifier: 97FL, Field Elevation: 80 feet, Private-use airstrips (prior permission required for landing), N/South Runway: 3,700 ft x 125 ft, E/W Runway: 2,500 ft x 100 ft. Loves Landing offers a rare opportunity to live where your aircraft is just steps from home.

THIS IS THE ONE! This 3/2 home offers a possible 4th bedroom, home office, game room, or man cave. Welcome to The Cooper House, where touches of copper inside and out create such a vibe, from the copper rain gutters to the garage door and entry door designed to look like warm wood. Step inside to a spacious foyer with room for backpacks or a cozy bench setup, and enjoy the tall ceilings that make the home feel open and airy. The kitchen is a standout with a brick veneer accent wall, tons of cabinetry, and open shelving to display your favorite dishes and décor, plus both a full size dining room and an eat in kitchen space. The living room features sliding glass doors that open to a screened in lanai. NEW ROOF in 2025. All of this is located in the Westgate community with access to a community dock on Lake Eustis.

Jordan Holmes Jordan Holmes HOME • AUTO • COMMERCIAL • LIFE

HOME • AUTO • COM MERCI A L • LIFE

from a name you trust. ……from a name you trust.

352-326-4007| |www.insureleesburg.com www.insureleesburg.com darrschackowinsurance.com DSI352-326-4007

morrisrealtors.com

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Kim

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Ducharme Levensohn

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Residential Sales

352.874.5906 Kim@MorrisRealtors.com Kim Connects… Your Real Estate Connection

CUSTOM COUNTRY ESTATE ON 4.2 ACRES! Luxury meets country living in this custombuilt 4BR/3.5BA e close to The Villages. Enjoy a screened saltwater pool & spa, spacious loft, stunning upgrades, and the rare convenience of private bath access from every bedroom. Bring your RV, boat, and toys—the 40x40 RV pole barn with 14-ft entry offers endless possibilities. Private. Peaceful. One-of-a-Kind. Schedule your private tour today! Reduced! $1,050,000.

JUST UNDER 5 ACRES | NO HOA | HEATED SALTWATER POOL | WHOLE-HOUSE GENERATOR! Experience country living with all the comforts you love in this nearly new 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offering 2,500+ sq. ft., two primary suites, an open floor plan, 3-car garage, and a screened heated saltwater pool. Enjoy privacy, space, and peaceful Florida living—all conveniently located near The Villages, shopping, dining, and entertainment! $1,025,000.

LAKE GRIFFIN ACCESS | 3BR/2BA | ½ ACRE | 900 SQ. FT. WORKSHOP | NEW 2026 ROOF! This Leesburg home offers an open floor plan, no carpet, a fully fenced yard, screened lanai, and an impressive 900 sq. ft. detached workshop/garage. Enjoy plenty of space, Lake Griffin access, and a convenient location just minutes from Downtown Leesburg, shopping, and dining! $345,000.

WHY WAIT TO BUILD? Nearly new and move-in ready, this beautifully upgraded home features soaring ceilings, an open floor plan, no carpet, a designer kitchen with quartz countertops, flexible office/den, low HOA, and is just minutes from The Villages. Quality construction. Modern upgrades. Florida living at its finest. Reduced! $347,000.

OCEAN VIEWS • 3 PRIVATE BALCONIES • NEW A/C • PRICED TO SELL! Here’s your chance to own in Ormond Beach at a great price and remodel it YOUR way! This spacious 2BR/2BA condo offers ocean views from the living room and both bedrooms, each with balcony access, plus secure underground parking, community pool, private beach access, and a new A/C with a 10-year transferable warranty. Bring your vision, add your personal style, and create the beach retreat you’ve always wanted! $349,000.

SPRUCE CREEK DEL WEBB | 2BR/2BA | 2,000+ SQ FT | NO REAR NEIGHBORS! Enjoy Florida living in this spacious, carpet-free home featuring multiple living areas and an extended screened lanai overlooking a peaceful backyard. Located in an amenity-rich gated golf community with pools, pickleball, tennis, clubs, activities, and 36 holes of golf! $349,000.

MAINTENANCE-FREE FLORIDA LIVING! Immaculate 2 BED | 2 BATH home featuring luxury vinyl flooring, super-plush carpeting, recessed lighting, granite countertops & upgraded soft-close cabinetry. HOA COVERS ROOF, EXTERIOR PAINT, LAWN CARE, IRRIGATION, CABLE & INTERNET!Enjoy golf, resort-style pools, fitness, pickleball, dining & more—just minutes from Downtown Leesburg. LESS MAINTENANCE. MORE FUN. MORE FLORIDA! $275,500.

$10,000 TOWARD CLOSING COSTS OR RATE BUYDOWN! 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home on ½+ acre with a 3-car garage, 2021 roof, new water heater & private Silver Lake access! Granite kitchen, fireplace, screened lanai, low HOA & well water—NO WATER BILL! $489,000.

NEW ROOF 2026 • NO REAR NEIGHBORS • 2-CAR + GOLF CART GARAGE! 3 bedrooms + bonus room, over 1,900 sq ft in gated Stonecrest, minutes from The Villages. Updated kitchen, screened lanai & incredible amenities! $349,000.

CORNER LOT • NEARLY 1,700 SQ FT • ROOF 2021 • UPDATED WINDOWS & FLOORING! Move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath home in amenity-rich Stonecrest! Open living spaces, Florida Room, updated kitchen appliances, brick paver patio & 1-year home warranty. Enjoy golf, pools, pickleball, fitness & 75+ clubs—minutes from The Villages! $335,000.

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Jo Leen

Cooper Howe Residential Sales

WATERFRONT LUXURY IN LOCH LEVEN! Experience elegant waterfront living in this stunning gated community pool home featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and an oversized 3 car garage. Enjoy an open floor plan with stone fireplace , gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, luxurious primary suite with wet bar, and french doors leading to resort-style pool overlooking the water. Relax around the custom firepit or take advantage of community ammenties. Minutes from charming downtown Mount Dora, shopping, dining and Floridas turnpike. $1,100,000.

352.267.0770

JoLeen@MorrisRealtors.com The Results Will Move You!

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE FLORIDA LIFESTYLE WITH THIS EXCEPTIONAL WATERFRONT HOME on the renowned Lake Harris CHAIN OF LAKES. Offering over 3,300 sq feet of living space, this spacious residence features four bedrooms, three baths and breathtaking views of LITTLE LAKE HARRIS. RECENT UPDATES INCLUDE A NEW ROOF IN 2024, NEW HVAC IN 2022, AND NEW INSTANT HOT WATER HEATER for added peace of mind. The expansive 33’ x 12’ FLORIDA ROOM PROVIDES THE PERFECT SETTING TO RELAX AND ENJOY PICTURESQUE WATERFRONT AND SUNSETS YEAR ROUND. $825,000.

BUILT IN 2018! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home sits on an oversized lot with a spacious, fully fenced backyard and gated access on both sides—perfect for pets, privacy, and your outdoor toys! The open floor plan features easy-care vinyl flooring throughout, and all appliances are included. Additional features include a tankless water heater, water softener, and concrete patio perfect for entertaining and family barbecues.

$5,000 CARPET ALLOWANCE AND FRESHLY PAINTED Leesburg’s Scottish Highlands highly sought-after 55+ community. Newer 2020 roof and 2023 electrical panel. Step into easy living with an oversized 2 car garage, private irrigation well, and low monthly fees. Whether you are relaxing at the indoor pool and spa, staying active with tennis, or joining vibrant community activities, there’s always something to love here. Ideally located just minutes from shopping, dining, medical facilities, and places of worship, this home blends quiet community charm with everyday convenience. $215,000.

DISCOVER EASY FLORIDA LIVING in the desirable Chesterbrook Condominiums in Leesburg! This centrally located 3-bedroom 2- bath home is nestled in a welcoming 55+ community featuring a community pool and clubhouse. NEW ROOF 2026, AND NEWER AC. The HOA also covers water, sewer, trash, and cable making for a truly hassle-free living. Whether you’re looking for a full time residence or the perfect winter retreat , this is an opportunity you want to miss!! $82,500.

RENOVATED IN 2025 AND OFFERED FULLY FURNISHED, this free standing villa on Siesta Key is truly turn key-ideal as a personal retreat or a high-demand seasonal rental. Highly desirable Polynesian Gardens along the Intracoastal Waterway. 1 of only 10 villas overlooking the community pool, one of the highest elevations in the community. Private outdoor oasis with tropical landscaping and a cozy LP gas fire pit—perfect for relaxing. New Roof 2024, New HVAC System 2023, Water Heater 2025, Programmable Nest Thermostat, programmable and remote entry touch key lock, remote camera system, and new gutters 2025. $625,000.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES • RENTAL ANALYSIS • MARKETING • INSPECTIONS REALTOR® // PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

TREY HALIDAY • FOR OWNERS • OCCUPIED PROPERTIES 352.365.6900

TREY@MORRISREALTORS.COM

morrisrealtors.com

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Kendra L.

Akers

Licensed Real Estate Agent

352.638.7134

Kendra@MorrisRealtors.com

FALL IN LOVE with this adorable and affordable home, beautifully remodeled and move-in ready... ROOF REPLACED 2022!! Featuring luxury vinyl wood-look flooring throughout, a stylish kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and abundant cabinet space to include a closet pantry. Enjoy three spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, an oversized one-car garage with dedicated laundry area, and a durable Maytag washer and dryer that convey. Relax or entertain on the huge 27’ x 11’ screened wood deck and take advantage of the detached 19’ x 15’ workshop with electric— perfect for a man cave, “she shed”, hobby space, or extra storage. Call Theresa! 352-360-3736! $249,900.

YOUR FLORIDA DREAM HOME AWAITS IN SPRUCE CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB! Discover the perfect blend of comfort, style, and community in this incredible 3-bedroom, 2-bath Johnstown Model home. Nestled in the highly sought-after 55+ gated community this property offers a lifestyle of luxury, convenience, and endless opportunities. MLS# G5099176 // $419,900.

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME on this beautiful 5 acre lot in a neighborhood of custom homes that is just minutes to The Villages shopping, dining, medical facilities and so more much! This lot is already cleared, the trees have been trimmed and it is ready for you to build your new roots here in this premium location! Bring your own builder! Call Lauren 352.636.2167! $299,900.

SITUATED RIGHT ON 301 just off of 466 in the heart of Oxford, this residential lot has future land use as Commercial zoned with the City of Wildwood. Direct road front exposure on a corner lot with endless convenient shopping, restaurants and nearby medical facilities, this property is just what you have been looking for. Do not miss the opportunity to snag this lot before it is to late. Call Lauren 352.636.2167! $99,000.

Your dream home came without your dream floors? We can fix that. Every Style. Any Budget. Just Rite For You. Convenient in-home shopping appointments Immediate installation available on in-stock styles

Ralph Lambert Mobile Direct Sales

ralphlambert@riterug.com

Huge selection of high-quality flooring

352-830-5758

Guaranteed lowest prices

www.riterug.com

integrity // experience // results

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17.5 WOODED ACRES of lakefront property on Lake Deaton. This is a rare opportunity to purchase this large of a parcel directly on an approximately 500 acre Lake. This offering is for two parcels, Sumter County ID: G23-050 and G23-022, currently zoned RR5 within Sumter County. The adjacent property is zoned R2M, so the same zoning could be assigned to these two parcels. Upon rezoning, the property could yield seven lakefront lots at almost 80’ wide, then with roads and drainage, the remaining land could possibly be divided into 18 interior one half acre lots, this is a concept only and has not been approved. Imagine the potential this type of development could have! It may be possible to seek proper zoning for a lakefront RV park. All information provided must be confirmed by the buyer. $2,400,000. Contact Judd for more information.

RECENTLY ANNEXED INTO WILDWOOD! Exceptional opportunity to acquire a 9-acre parcel recently annexed into the City of Wildwood. The property was approved as Commercial Mixed Use, making it well suited for a variety of commercial development opportunities. Strategically located on Warm Springs Avenue, the site offers excellent visibility and exposure with almost 19,000 trips per day. The property sits just west of the Magnolia Shopping Plaza / Everglades Recreation Center, and just east of the intersection with US301, placing it in the path of continued commercial growth. The location also provides convenient access for residents of The Villages. This is a 7 parcel assemblage, the existing structures have no value. Buyer to verify all information. $3,900,000.

Judd Dickerson 352.516.7809

Judd@MorrisRealtors.com

UNDER CONSTRUCTION. The dark gray shell is estimated to be ready for delivery to prospective tenants by February 2026. Bring your medical, office, or retail business to this amazing location. This property is adjacent to the new Wal-Mart to be constructed. This new Commercial strip center is direct frontage on CR466, a well traveled thoroughfare with over 25,000 vehicles per day, which is sure to increase with the new Wal-Mart to the east and Costco to the west. Available spaces are unit #200 which is 4,325 sq ft and unit #300 which is 2,935 sq ft, or combine for 7,260 sq ft. The adjacent space, unit #100, is a Dentist, under contract. The adjacent building, which is also under construction, will be a thriving Dermatology practice that will bring continuous traffic to the site. In addition to the base rent, there will also be $4 CAM and $4 additional rent to cover real estate taxes and insurance. 5-year lease term minimum. MLS# G5096272 // $35.00 Per Sq.Ft.

Over 12,000 cleanings since 2015! 96.8% OF THE TIME THE CUSTOMER IS SATISFIED WITH THE CLEANING.

A CLEAN HOME OR OFFICE MAKES IT SO MUCH EASIER TO ENJOY LIFE! Let us take care of the cleaning for you to enjoy a fresh, healthy and sparkling space.

BOOK NOW

352-431-4515 | info@dustbusters.pro morrisrealtors.com

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Scott Strem

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Realtor®

352.978.3428 Scott@MorrisRealtors.com Serious About Selling Multi-Million Dollar Producer

ATTENTION INVESTORS! Opportunity in Lady Lake/Villages area! 100% occupied 2 building professional plaza now available! Fully occupied with NNN leases in place, this well maintained 2009 built property has ample parking with 38 parking spots. Suites are well designed with each unit comprising approximately 1,200 sq ft. Five diverse professional tenants occupy the two buildings for 100% occupancy. Located directly next to the Lady Lake Post Office and adjacent to major retailers and restaurants, not to mention just minutes to the immensely popular Spanish Springs Town Square! Wonderful high traffic area for maximum tenant success translates to a solid high occupancy investment to add to your portfolio! MLS# G5116836 // $2,459,000.

APPROXIMATELY 53 ACRES NOW AVAILABLE! Located in rapidly growing area of growing area of Orange County in Mount Dora near Apopka. Situated just about a mile from 441/N Orange Blossom Trail, with Bob White Airfield use property to the immediate north, distribution/industrial use properties to the immediate west, and farming uses to the immediate East boundaries of the subject property. Quick access to US-441 and SR-46, offering strong connectivity to Apopka, Orlando, and other key Central Florida markets. Just minutes from FL-429 Expressway. Property most recently used as blueberry farm. **Priced at recent April 2026 appraisal value!!!** Large tracts of land in this area don’t come to market often! MLS# G5110768 // $2,225,000.

FOR LEASE! Office/warehouse space in desirable Greenleaf Business Center. Current floorplan allows for flexibility of space configurations from 2,380 sq ft single unit all the way up to as much as 10,500 sq ft. Space sizes in the 4,000 to 6,000 sq ft range can also be accommodated. Let us know what you need and we’ll make it work! Lease rates vary upon size with single unit pricing at $10 psf base rent and larger space sizing as low as $8.00 psf base rent. M-1 Heavy Industrial zoning allows for a variety of uses. City sewer & water, 3 phase power and gas available. MLS# G5112356.

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY! Chain Of Lakes waterfront property with 2 turn-key businesses included! Take over an established jet ski/boat rental business and popular bait and tackle shop, both located directly on Lake Eustis. In addition to the waterfront location, the property is also located directly on US HWY 441, with AADT traffic counts in excess of 47,000 per FDOT. All boats, jet ski’s, FF&E, and inventory are INCLUDED! Owners are willing to stay on for a period of time! ALSO INCLUDED with the sale are 13+ pristine acres directly across from the parent parcel on US HWY 441. MLS# G5103508 // $560,000.

NEWLY AVAILABLE SPACE FOR LEASE in growing Downtown Leesburg! The second floor spaces are now available, a variety of configurations/sq ft sizes are available, from individual office rentals all the way up to 5,140 sq ft to suit a variety of office, retail and professional uses. 3rd floor approximately 5,025 sq ft available which owner will consider dividing/building out to suit you specific needs. Both the 2nd and 3rd floors are easily accessible vis elevator or stairs. Downtown Leesburg is conveniently located with an easy commute to Orlando, the Turnpike, I-75, and more. Location is walking distance to the multitude of new businesses on Main St as well as Beacon College facilities. Great walk-by and drive-by traffic on this busy corner! MLS# G5056390 / $17.50 psf + NNN.

integrity // experience // results

FIRST CLASS PROFESSIONAL OFFICE FOR LEASE! This state of the art office is loaded with upgrades and features, high speed data lines, LED lighting, PA system that includes white noise, security/fire alarms and the building is fully sprinkled. Recently remodeled office space consisting of approximately 5,500 +/- sq ft with numerous offices, open cubicle floorplan (cubicles can be included) breakroom/conference room and is turnkey ready for a new tenant. Property shares phenomenal parking (90+ parking spaces) with easy access along main road. Located in the Heart of Central Florida less than an hour to Orlando or Ocala & minutes to the The Villages. MLS# G5012866 // $12psf/NNN

Michael Barrett

Residential Sales

352.255.5710

Michael@MorrisRealtors.com

DISCOVER YOUR IDEALLY-LOCATED HOME IN CRESCENT RIDGE AT ON TOP OF THE WORLD A 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence comfortably expanded with a versatile flex/bonus room. Every room features no carpet — the main areas are finished in durable and elegant laminate wood floors, giving the home a clean, modern feel. The well-designed split-bedroom plan offers excellent privacy: the master suite includes a generously sized second-bath, and the expansive master closet is a standout feature for those who appreciate premium storage. Well-maintained, stylish, and ready for you — schedule your showing today. Call Craig 352-636-4454! $189,000.

MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING WITH GOLF COURSE VIEWS Beautifully remodeled 3BR/3BA condo just minutes from The Villages, Brownwood, Middleton, shopping, dining, entertainment, and schools. This MOVE IN READY home features a spacious great room with vaulted wood-beam ceilings, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a versatile dining/flex space. The updated kitchen offers newer cabinetry, granite countertops, a brand-new range, dishwasher, side-by-side refrigerator, plus a washer and dryer that convey. The flexible floor plan includes private entrances for the guest bedrooms, making it ideal for visitors or extended stays, while the primary suite features generous triple closets. Relax on the wraparound covered front deck overlooking the golf course. Community amenities include a pool, pickleball courts, picnic area, and playground. Enjoy easy Florida living in a prime location—schedule your private showing today! Call Theresa 352-360-3736! $129,900.

WELCOME HOME to this inviting 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence with a flex room, ideally situated in the desirable Country Club of Mount Dora. Open floor plan with both a family room and a formal living area. The kitchen offers an abundance of cabinet space, bar seating, and a breakfast nook filled with natural light. The downstairs primary suite is a relaxing retreat, complete with direct access to the pool, a walk-in closet, dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. Upstairs you’ll find additional bedrooms and a full bath, perfect for guests or family. Heated, saltwater pool with a view of the tranquil waters of Loch Leven. Covered and screened patio! Call Craig 352-636-4454! $749,000.

Brokers Title is one of the largest independently owned insurance companies in the state of Florida. Let our experienced team of professionals work for you when purchasing, selling, or refinancing your property. Brokers Title has been an established leader in real estate transactions for over 27 years, and we value you most. In fact our reputation is built on it. • Partnership Opportunities • Short Sales • REOs • Foreclosures • Staff Attorney • Mobile Closings Seminars • 24 Hour Turnaround on HUDs • Title Searches • 1031 Exchanges Remote • On-Line Notary in Office 352 .7 2 8 .6 7 0 7 | inf o @ broke rs t it l e . ne t | 9800 U S H w y. 441 Suit e 106 morrisrealtors.com

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Lindsay Sanders

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Realtor®

352.661.0232

Lindsay@MorrisRealtors.com

Let Lindsay Lead You Home

THIS HOME HAS AN RV GARAGE THAT WILL MAKE YOUR JAW DROP In addition to a 2-car garage, there’s a massive 45x14 RV garage with ductless A/C, race deck flooring, and motorized retractable garage door screens. Built in 2022, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 2,157 square feet under air with a modern, open layout.

ENJOY THE CONVENIENCE of walking to local dining, shopping, and Beacon College from this beautifully remodeled condo. Inside, you’ll find an open living and dining area featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and a bright, modern feel.

WELCOME TO THE TREE HOUSE! 1.37-acre canal-front home on a private island with access to the chain of lakes, featuring an oversized 4-car garage that can fit up to 6 vehicles and a new metal roof. Surrounded by majestic oak trees with Spanish moss, it offers peaceful canal views from a covered porch and multiple balconies across three levels.

SPACIOUS 4-BEDROOM, 3-BATHROOM home offering comfort, functionality, and room to grow. Enjoy added privacy with no rear neighbors and ample space for a future pool, plus a convenient pool bath already in place. Major updates include a new HVAC system and roof (2021).

2 PRIMARY SUITES • GATED GOLF COMMUNITY • NEAR THE VILLAGES! 1,500 SF villa featuring 2 true primary suites, remodeled baths, no carpet, a split floor plan, and a 2-car garage—all located in the gated golf community of Harbor Hills. Resort-style amenities and a country club lifestyle await! Call Kim 352-874-5906! $239,900.

OF OUT TE STA ES MOV

OWN THE LAND • NO HOA • NO LOT RENT! Affordable living awaits! This well-maintained home features an open floor plan, abundant storage, workshop, fenced yard, and numerous updates—all just minutes from Downtown Leesburg and The Villages. Updates include: roof (2021), windows (2018), vinyl siding (2018), vinyl plank flooring (2018), A/C (2016), vapor barrier (2025), expanded concrete driveway (2019), and an addition completed in 2018. Call Kim 352-874-5906! $139,900.

FR ESTIMEE AT

LICENSED & INSURED | B ASED IN L AKE COU NT Y A ND S E RVING 4 8 STATES

integrity // experience // results

Voted Best Of The Best 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2025

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Hailey Franklin Realtor®

SITUATED ON OVER 1/3 OF AN ACRE in the highly desirable Fairways community, this beautifully designed block home offers the perfect combination of space, privacy, and convenience—just minutes from The Villages while welcoming residents of all ages! Inside, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a functional split floor plan with high ceilings, abundant natural light, and an open, airy layout ideal for everyday living and entertaining. ng residents of all ages! Call Hailey 352-874-5331! $349,900.

352.874.5331

Hailey@MorrisRealtors.com

WELCOME HOME to this spacious and thoughtfully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a versatile bonus room, offering over 1,500 square feet of living space in Quail Ridge Estates! Lovingly cared for by its original owners, this move-in-ready home features an abundance of natural light and numerous recent upgrades, including brand-new interior paint, new luxury vinyl plank flooring, updated light fixtures, new light switches with dimming and mood-lighting options, and a fully replaced roof in 2024. Step inside to an inviting open layout where the living room flows into the dining area and exceptionally roomy kitchen, complete with abundant cabinetry and countertop space, a breakfast nook, and plenty of storage throughout the home. Situated on over a quarter-acre in an unincorporated area and conveniently located near Lake Yale and Lake Eustis, this home offers space, privacy, thoughtful improvements, and an impressive list of included extras that make it truly ready for its next owner to move in and enjoy! $215,000.

STUNNING SUNSETS every evening, and an exceptional opportunity to own over half an acre of direct lakefront on the sparkling shores of East Crooked Lake—a private, fresh water, spring-fed ski lake, known for its pristine, white sandy bottom and crystal-clear waters. Boasting over 100 feet of true lake frontage with no roads in between, this property offers the ultimate waterfront lifestyle with your own private dock for boating, wakeboarding, paddle-boarding, waterskiing, or simply unwinding under the Florida sun. The home is thoughtfully positioned to capture breathtaking lake views the moment you walk in, with sliding glass doors that open to a spacious 30x16 screened lanai—perfect for taking in the sunset each evening. $799,000.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

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

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

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Camie Kennedy

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Realtor®

352.408.4668 Camie@MorrisRealtors.com Camie Can!

CANAL ACCESS TO LAKE HARRIS! Enjoy Florida living with optional water access, dock and community pool! Built in 2021. The spacious living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen. Step outside to the large, screen-enclosed covered patio that runs the full length of the home. You’ll also love the additional paver patio, perfect for gathering around a firepit and enjoying sunset views. Extras include an inside laundry room, an oversized garage, a Nest thermostat, security cameras, and neutral décor throughout. With canal access to Lake Harris! Call Lena 352-636-4488! $319,000.

DREAM HOME ALERT located in an all age, 24/7 Guard-Gated Golf Community! Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, this half-acre is situated on GOLF FRONTAGE (15th Green). This beautifully designed home offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and unforgettable entertaining. The luxurious primary suite with a decorative electric wall fireplace, is a private retreat with French doors to the pool, spa-like bath, and dual custom walk-in closets. Oversized bedrooms 2 & 3 share a remodeled bath with a jetted tub. Step outside and fall in love with your own backyard paradise! Enjoy the sparkling pool and an incredible CUSTOM SUMMER KITCHEN complete with a built-in grill, smooth cooktop, dishwasher, sink, and granite countertops— perfect for hosting family and friends year-round. Call Theresa 352-360-3736! $624,900.

GREAT TAVARES LOCATION ON NEARLY HALF AN ACRE! Looking for space, a great location, and a home you can make your own? This 3/2 home sits on a spacious .44-acre lot in an established Tavares neighborhood and offers plenty of potential. With approximately 1,879 sq.ft., the home features a split-bedroom floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and 2-car garage. Outside, enjoy a large partially fenced yard with plenty of room for pets, plus a detached shed for additional storage. The home is in need of some TLC and updating, making it a great opportunity for someone looking to put their own touches on a property. Call Lena 352-636-4488! $309,000. HO TP RO

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WELCOME TO THIS SPACIOUS 4/2 Offering 1,952 sq.ft. of living space, this home features a split-bedroom floor plan with two separate living areas, a formal dining room, and an eat-in kitchen complete with solid wood cabinetry, a breakfast bar, pantry, and brand-new stainless steel appliances. Covered rear porch and no rear neighbors. Additional features include luxury vinyl and tile flooring throughout, a paver driveway, fresh paint inside and outside, all new kitchen appliances, irrigation system, a 2022 roof and a 2-car garage. Located in the gated community of Spring Ridge Estates. Call Lena 352-636-4488! $349,900.

Celia Smith Realtor®

WOW! This beautifully remodeled pool home in Kings Cove has been completely transformed from top to bottom, with virtually everything brand new! From the moment you walk in, you’ll appreciate the fresh, modern feel and stunning finishes throughout. Major updates include a BRAND-NEW ROOF, A/C, WATER HEATER, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, WINDOWS AND DOORS, giving you the look and feel of a new home without the new construction wait. Step outside and enjoy your own private Florida retreat featuring an amazing in-ground pool with a saltwater system and a completely fenced backyard—perfect for relaxing, entertaining or enjoying time outdoors. Call Lena 352-636-4488! $419,900.

508.717.7061

Celia@MorrisRealtors.com

GOLF FRONTAGE STUNNING HOME Enjoy views of the 10th green from the front and rear views of the 11th Tee. This custom home boasts over 3,000 square feet of living space plus room for all your cars and golfcart in a 3-car garage! The Primary Suite features a sitting area, doors to lanai & custom stain glass. Split bedroom design gives privacy to bedrooms 2 & 3 that share the second bath with raised dual vanity and granite countertops. “One of a kind” remodeled 3rd guest bath that features a rare onyx flooring, shower wall and custom vanity! Additional upgrades include crown molding, high volume ceilings that range 10, 12 to 14 feet, water filtration/ softener, two HVAC replaced in 2018, Hot Water Heater replaced 2023, Custom Valances and more...Transferable Termite Bond!! Buyer can choose...Seller will commit to a NEW ROOF prior to closing or adjust to lower price!! Call Theresa 352-360-3736! $617,500.

integrity // experience // results

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Lauren Fickett Realtor®

THIS CHARMING 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH HOME offers the perfect blend of space and convenience and sits on over half an acre with NO HOA! This home features an open floor plan, a 3 car garage, a massive screened in porch and a new roof in 2021. It also has a detached shed which is perfect for additional storage. Great location being just minutes to The Villages amenities such as shopping, restaurants, medical facilities and entertainment. $499,900.

BRING YOUR BOAT AND FISHING POLES!!! Located just one house in on the canal right off of Lake Eustis, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is now available! NO HOA! Every fishermen's dream dock with large boat house/hoist. As you are welcomed inside, you will love the large living area. The kitchen with views of the water has tons of great cabinets for storage and a lot of countertops. The oversized back deck is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or the cool breezes off the lake in the evenings. Metal roof that is made to look like tile is another great touch to this home. You can enjoy boating to all of the amazing restaurants on the chain of lakes right from your back yard. $270,000.

352.636.2167

Lauren@MorrisRealtors.com Leave It To Lauren!

DISCOVER THE PERFECT CANVAS FOR YOUR DREAM HOME on this stunning 5-acre parcel ideally located just minutes from the amenities of The Villages. The lot itself is cleared and ready to build, saving you time and expense so you can move forward with your vision right away. Pride of ownership is evident throughout, with high-end custom residences being built at this time setting the tone for quality and architectural excellence. Bring your own builder and design the home you’ve always imagined. $299,900.

SITUATED RIGHT ON 301 JUST OFF OF 466 in the heart of Oxford, this residential lot has future land use as Commercial zoned with the City of Wildwood. Direct road front exposure on a corner lot with endless convenient shopping, restaurants and nearby medical facilities, this property is just what you have been looking for. Do not miss the opportunity to snag this lot before it is to late. $99,000.

NESTLED INSIDE A 55+ GATED COMMUNITY this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the ideal setting for those seeking a quiet, small-town feel without sacrificing proximity to everything you need. This home has been thoughtfully updated with major improvements already taken care of for you, including a brand-new roof (January 2026), new AC system (July 2025), and a new Rainbird sprinkler system (November 2025)—giving you peace of mind and efficiency for years to come. Open floor plan with an amazing back patio area perfect for grilling and relaxing. Residents also enjoy access to fantastic amenities, including a community pool and clubhouse. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy comfort, convenience, and community all in one place! $309,900.

ESCAPE TO THE PERFECT BLEND OF wide-open space and everyday convenience with this incredible 10-acre property located near The Villages with NO HOA! This beautifully cleared acreage offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home exactly the way you envision it. With plenty of room to roam, the land is ready for your custom home, workshop, barn, or even a private retreat. Bring your own builder. The seller is willing to entertain owner financing, making this an even more accessible and attractive option for buyers ready to invest in their future. $397,000.

Rich LeMoyne Regional Manager NMLS#333158

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

morrisrealtors.com

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Joan DeFoe

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Realtor®

352.516.6843 Joan@MorrisRealtors.com Real Estate “Little Giant” // Multi-Million Dollar Producer // Premier Agent

MOVE-IN READY AND FULLY FURNISHED… just bring your suitcase and start enjoying the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about! Golf cart conveys, and the seller will even pay the $2,500 clubhouse initiation fee for the buyer, making this an incredible opportunity to step right into resort-style living (enjoy Fitness Room, Heated Pool, Raquet/Tennis/Pickleball, Activities & more) in a guard-gated 24/7 “ALL AGE” golfing community. From the moment you arrive, the brick paver driveway and welcoming foyer set the tone for this beautifully maintained home. Relax and unwind on the large, covered lanai with an additional birdcage screened porch with patented Screen Room Drains showcasing stylish stamped concrete flooring and a private backyard retreat perfect for morning coffee! Call Theresa 352-360-3736! $349,900.

LOOKING TO KICKBACK AND RELAX? Look no further than this double wide manufactured home, offering 2 bedrooms, possibly third bedroom. Large living area, large remodeled kitchen including appliances. Inside utility with washer and dryer. Workshop with lighting and ramp for wheel chair access. Located in lovely Coachwood East 55+ community. $142,500.

INSPECTION SERVICES: • Home Inspections • 4–Point Inspections • Wind Mitigations • Roof Certiﬁcations • Thermal imaging • Termite Inspections • Mold inspections 352.602.9819 | jcwhomeinspector@gmail.com 14

integrity // experience // results

Call us today to get your inspection scheduled !

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Lena Williams Realtor®

PRIVATE WATERFRONT RETREAT! Imagine being tucked away on ten beautiful acres where you can really experience peaceful Florida living...waterfront and all... This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home captures all of this and more! You will enjoy more than 600 feet of lake frontage on spring-fed Sapp Pond. Step inside and you’ll find an inviting layout with an airy open concept, highlighted by 10-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors, and elegant finishes throughout. The kitchen is complete with travertine counters, custom 60-inch cabinetry, and upgraded stainless appliances. $711,900.

STUNNING SUMTER CROSSING ESTATE! Welcome to this absolutely incredible custom-built estate in the gated community of Sumter Crossing, located in Oxford, Florida. Privately situated on 6.27 fully fenced acres, this true craftsman-style home showcases solid wood details and expert millwork throughout—offering timeless charm paired with high-end functionality. Designed for comfort, security, and versatility, the home includes an attached three-bay garage with an 11-foot high center door. In addition, a pristine detached RV garage offers two bays, including one with a 14’x16’ overhead door—ideal for RVs, boats, or workshop use. $1,295,000.

352.636.4488

Lena@MorrisRealtors.com Lena Sells!

IRIS DESIGNER HOME WITH WATERVIEW IN THE VILLAGE OF DESOTO! This doesn’t happen often so don’t wait to see this stunning home. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features 1,914 square feet of living space with an open, comfortable floor plan filled with natural light. The kitchen is a standout with quartz countertops, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a large island with seating and a closet pantry, all opening to the dining and living areas for easy everyday living and entertaining. Step outside to the best part...the large screened lanai is a showstopper. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather in your own private space with beautiful views. The extended paver patio overlooks the spacious backyard and water... the perfect spot. $674,900.

CUSTOM POOL HOME ON OVER 10 ACRES! Built in 2023 by well-known custom builder Bennett Construction, this spacious three-bedroom, three-bath home offers approximately 2,781 square feet of beautifully designed living space filled with custom details. The property is fenced and gated and includes a 24-by-30-foot steel building with a concrete floor, perfect for equipment, hobbies, storage, or a workshop. This exceptional property combines quality construction, beautiful acreage, thoughtful upgrades, and the privacy you are searching for. This is a rare opportunity that should not be missed. $1,495,000.

morrisrealtors.com

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SPECTACULAR

Lakefront Home!

Welcome to your own private retreat! Nestled on 4.7 scenic acres with approximately 234 feet of shoreline on beautiful Lake Berchfield, this exceptional property offers the freedom of NO HOA and endless possibilities. Car enthusiasts and hobbyists will love the multiple 2 car garages and workshop space, including a four-post car lift, built-in air compressor, additional 1car garage, and covered RV parking with water and electric hookups. Inside, you’ll find a spacious, inviting floor plan featuring formal living and dining areas, a large family room, and a beautiful kitchen with real wood cabinetry, newer appliances, and plenty of room to gather. Roomy inside Laundry Room convey Washer & Dryer, Shower for quick clean-up from outside and a built-in iron board! You will love the convenience of a half bath for guests! Relax in the oversized primary suite with private lanai access or unwind on the expansive screened porch with its tongue-and-groove wood ceiling while taking in breathtaking lake views... Privacy, space, waterfront living, and room for all your toys—this is more than a home, it’s a lifestyle. Don’t miss your opportunity to make it yours. Schedule your private showing today!

$645,000 | CALL THERESA 352-360-3736!

AGENDA

EV EN TS CULTURE PEOPLE

LOCAL TALENT

Jason Granger’s intricate, ink-filled creations prove a blank page is simply an invitation to dream bigger.

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Oct. 2026

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation. EVERY SATURDAY

EVERY MONDAY

EVERY TUESDAY

EVERY THURSDAY

1ST FRIDAY

Lakeridge Winery presents: Farmers Market 9am-3pm 19239 US 27, Clermont

Webster Farmers Market 6am-2pm 524 N Market Blvd., Webster

Lady Lake Farmers Market 9am-2pm 250 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake

Lake County Farmers and Flea Market 8am-noon 2101 N CR 452, Eustis

Eustis First Friday 6-9pm Downtown Eustis

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THE TO-DO LIST

FESTIVAL

Pumpkins and Puppies Historic Downtown Clermont welcomes fall with its annual Harvest Festival featuring more than 100 artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, a kids’ zone and a pet costume contest. The familyfriendly celebration offers a full day of shopping, entertainment and seasonal fun in the heart of downtown.

FESTIVAL

Splash Landing Classic cars, craft beer, live music and seaplanes come together at Tavares’ annual Rocktoberfest & Monster Splash Fly-In. Spend the day exploring downtown before watching seaplanes land on Lake Dora, browsing vendors and enjoying family-friendly entertainment along the waterfront. Wooton Park, 100 E Ruby St., Tavares / 352.742.6200 / tavares.org OCT

752 W Montrose St., Clermont 352.708.5975 / clermontdowntown.com

OCT

FESTIVAL

PIG OUT Bushnell’s annual Fall Festival fills downtown with a parade, arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, family activities and the always-popular greased pig contest. The longtime community tradition wraps up with an evening fireworks show that draws visitors from across Sumter County. 17 E Joe P. Strickland Jr. Ave., Bushnell / 352.793.2591 / cityofbushnellfl.com

OCT

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation. 1ST FRIDAY

EVERY SUNDAY

MONDAY & FRIDAY NIGHTS

EVERY FRIDAY

EVERY SUNDAY

Clermont First Friday Food Trucks 5:30-9pm 685 W Montrose St., Clermont

Downtown Clermont Farmers Market 9am-2pm Downtown Clermont

Car Shows in The Villages 5-8pm Lake Sumter Landing & Brownwood Paddock Square

Groveland Farmers Market 9am-1pm Lake David Park

Downtown Mount Dora Village Market 9am-2pm Downtown Mount Dora

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THE TO-DO LIST

OCT

24-25 FAIR

ART AND ABOUT More than 350 artists and crafters transform the streets of downtown Mount Dora during the annual Mount Dora Craft Fair, one of the nation’s top-ranked outdoor art festivals. Browse handcrafted jewelry, paintings, pottery, home décor and specialty foods while enjoying live entertainment, local restaurants and the charm of the historic downtown district. 230 W 4th Ave., Mount Dora 352.217.8390 / mtdoracraftfair.com

oct.

STAGE FRIGHTS

October 15-16

ON STAGE

Broadway and Hollywood collide in “The Haunted Theatre,” a musical revue featuring songs inspired by The Addams Family, Sunset Boulevard, The Phantom of the Opera, Little Shop of Horrors, Thriller and more. The Halloween-themed performance presented by SMASH Productions blends music, mystery and theatrical fun for audiences looking to celebrate the spooky season.

Enjoy quality entertainment on the many stages of Lake and Sumter counties. TELEKINETIC TERROR

October 30-November 15 Bullied at school and controlled at home, teenager Carrie White discovers a terrifying power that changes everything. Based on Stephen King’s bestselling novel, “Carrie: The Musical” blends suspense, drama and a powerful score by Academy Award winners Michael Gore and Dean Pitchford. Presented by Bay Street Players. Rated R for terror, language, blood and sexual situations. Bay Street Players, 109 N Bay St., Eustis 352.357.7777 / baystreetplayers.org

Savannah Center, 1545 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages 352.750.6084 / thevillagesentertainment.com

Let us help you get the word out! 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

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation. SECOND SATURDAY

EVERY SATURDAY

1ST & 3RD WEEK

2ND SATURDAY

FRIDAYS

4TH SATURDAY

Plaid in the Park 5-9pm 230 W 4th Ave., Mount Dora

Spanish Springs Mercado Outdoor Market & Music 9am-2pm

Market Night in The Villages 5-9pm Tue-Spanish Springs Wed-Lake Sumter Thu-Brownwood

Main Street Classic Car Show 5-9pm 510 W Main St., Leesburg

Story Time with Miss Cindy (Kids 0-6) 2pm, Marianne Beck Memorial Library, Howey-in-the-Hills

Eustis Classic Car Cruise-in 4-8pm Downtown Eustis

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oct.JAMS

10/3 @ 2:30pm & 7pm

10/17 @ 7pm

MAXIMUM QUEEN Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

FREE FALLIN’, THE TOM PETTY CONCERT EXPERIENCE Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

10/8 @ 6pm TRIBUTE TO DOOBIE BROTHERS / 38 SPECIAL Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford

Move to the beat of your favorite performers at these great concerts and local venues!

10/9 @ 6pm THE DEL-PHI’S ECHOES OF THE PAST Epic Theatres Old Mill Playhouse, The Villages

Are you in a band and want to be included in our monthly calendar? Email us at gina@akersmediagroup.com.

10/9 @ 7pm

10/19 @ 7pm THE BILLY JOEL LEGACY The Sharon, The Villages

10/21 @ 6:30pm V4V PRESENTS: LIVERPOOL LIVE Epic Theatres Old Mill Playhouse, The Villages

COTE & THE ULTIMATE ELVIS TRIBUTE Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

10/22 @ 6pm

10/10 @ 7pm THUNDERBEARD, TRIBUTE TO ZZ TOP Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

CECE TENEAL’S DIVAS OF SOUL Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

10/11 @ 4pm & 7pm

10/24 @ 7pm

ABSOLUTE QUEEN Savannah Center, The Villages

10/12 @ 4pm & 7pm MJ THE ILLUSION: RELIVING THE KING OF POP Savannah Center, The Villages

TRIBUTE TO CHICAGO Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford

10/23 @ 7pm

SIX GUN SALLY The Sharon, The Villages

10/24 @ 2:30 & 7pm CAPTURED – THE ULTIMATE JOURNEY EXPERIENCE Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

10/13 @ 7pm

10/28-29 @ 7pm

THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC AMERICAN ITALIAN CELEBRATION, The Sharon, The Villages

HOTEL CALIFORNIA – A SALUTE TO THE EAGLES Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

10/16 @ 6:30pm BUBLÉ & BEYOND WITH MARK RAISCH Epic Theatres Old Mill Playhouse, The Villages

10/16 @ 7pm MIKE MASSÉ Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

10/30 @ 7pm PETTY USA, TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

10/30 @ 7pm THE CARPENTERS SONGBOOK: A LIVE CELEBRATION The Sharon, The Villages

10/31 @ 7pm

10/16 @ 7pm JEREMY MCCOMB’S HONKY TONK CIRCUS TOUR The Sharon, The Villages

MEET LOAF – A TRIBUTE TO MEAT LOAF Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation. 2ND FRIDAY

1ST SATURDAY

SATURDAYS

EVERY MONDAY

EVERY LAST SATURDAY

OPEN DAILY

Second Friday Farmers Market 5-9pm Lake David Park, Groveland

Brown’s Junk in the Trunk 13940 US 301, Oxford

Villages Farmers Market Brownwood Paddock Square 9am-2pm

Boozy Bingo at Sawgrass Grove 5-8pm 766 Marilee Pl., The Villages

Howey Artisan + Orange Blossom Market 11am-2pm Mission Resort & Club 10400 Hwy. 48, Howey-in-the-Hills

Lady Lake Butterfly Haven 231 Lake Griffin Rd., Lady Lake

(Use the field gate south of Brown’s Country Store on US 301)

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LOCAL TALENT

PEO PLE

Ink-Credible Groveland artist Jason Granger turns a lifetime of doodling into detailed worlds of his own. STORY: ROXANNE BATRIZ

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

Sometimes Jason Granger knows exactly what he wants to draw. Other times, the 18-year-old Groveland artist stares at a blank sheet of paper for 30 minutes waiting for an idea. Eventually, one comes. Jason starts small, sketching a rough layout before moving to a larger surface and adding the layers of faces, figures and details that have become a signature of his work. His elaborate compositions can bring favorite musicians, movie villains, celebrities and cartoon characters together on a single page. Jason describes his style as a culmination of influences, including graffiti and large-scale murals. Some pieces take up to a month and a half to complete. Most begin in pencil, followed by ink pens for the strong black outlines prominent throughout his work. He uses alcohol brush markers for color, sometimes adding colored pencils or paint markers for texture. Jason’s fascination with filling blank pages started at age 2 when his grandmother gave him paper to doodle on while she babysat him. His parents soon noticed he wasn’t

simply scribbling; he was drawing recognizable eyes, noses and faces. “I feel like my family has definitely been the main reason why I kept drawing,” Jason says. Hundreds of sketchbooks followed. Around age 8 or 9, encouragement from his dad and other people who saw his drawings made Jason realize his talent could become something more. He also found inspiration online in VEXX, a street-art and doodle-style artist whose densely packed illustrations helped show Jason what was possible creatively and professionally. By 16, he was exhibiting work in Oakland. He later joined the South Lake Art League, where his pieces were featured earlier this year in the league’s downtown Clermont window. Now, the recent Hope Preparatory Academy graduate is a student at Savannah College of Art and Design, where he hopes to pursue sequential art, including comics and storyboarding, while exploring concept art. He’s ready for the new challenge. Jason says a piece can bring anxiety as it develops, but those emotional ups and downs make finishing it more satisfying. His advice to other aspiring artists is considerably simpler. “Just create no matter what,” Jason says. “If you feel that in you, you should do it.”

Know of a talented person in our community? Email your recommendations to roxanne@akersmediagroup.com.

ROXANNE BATRIZ

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RECLAIM YOUR YOUTHFUL VISION With more than 50 years of experience, Ocala Eye provides the expert care and advanced vision solutions you need to continue enjoying the moments that matter most.

Cataract Surgery Routine Eye Exams

LOCATIONS

Eyelid Surgery

SURGERY CENTERS

LASIK Call to Schedule

(352) 622-5183

ocalaeye.com

WELL DE SI G NE D, B U ILT TO LAST! A beautiful landscape doesn’t have to mean hours of upkeep! We love creating clean, functional outdoor spaces that are perfectly tailored to your home, your style, and the beautiful Florida landscape. From low-maintenance turf and structured hardscapes to boulders, lighting, plant installation, and defined edging, every little detail works together beautifully to create a wonderful finished look. Whether you are starting with a blank canvas or updating an existing landscape, Yard Stop in Mount Dora is your go-to partner for landscape design, materials, and installation.

7+ ACRES OF GARDEN & OUTDOOR LIVING

352-357-9964

YardStopGardenCenter.com

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WALK-INS WELCOME

OCALA & THE VILLAGES

P E ACE O F M I N D FO R

SAFETYNET A F R E E WA N D E R I N G S U P P O R T P R O G R A M

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is proud to provide the SafetyNet program free of charge to our residents. SafetyNet technology offers peace of mind to caregivers and family of those affected by cognitive disorders who may be prone to wander.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR SAFETYNET? Lake County Resident Does Not Drive Needs Full-Time Caregiver Diagnosed with a Cognitive Disorder (i.e. Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and/or Autism)

If a loved one may benefit from SafetyNet, please contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Unit at (352) 326-8108. You can also send an email to communityengagement@lcso.org.

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SPORTSHUB S T UDEN TS Sponsored by

C OACH ES T EAM S

MALE ATHLETE Leesburg High linebacker Brennan Henderson brings strength, leadership and goals to final season with the Yellow Jackets.

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FEMALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE

AVAYA WASHINGTON Umatilla all-around standout focused on making history . . . again. STORY AND PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON

PERFORMANCE PROFILE Volleyball position: All-around, primarily middle

School: Umatilla High School

Basketball position: All-around, primarily point guard

Grade: Junior

Track events: 100, 200, 400, 4x400 relay and long jump

Age: 16

Track: Top three in school history in the 400

Sports: Volleyball, basketball and track

Three-sport athlete: I play basketball, volleyball and run track. In basketball, I’m all-around but mainly a point guard. In volleyball, I’m all-around but mainly a middle.

Why volleyball: I just find it fun. I feel like I have the most fun when I’m on the court playing volleyball because there’s good energy all the time. The crowd’s loud. It’s so fun.

Dream destination: Bora Bora.

What sports have taught me: I would probably say

Pregame routine: A prayer.

communication but also bonding. The bond outside of volleyball helps a lot on the court too.

Biggest accomplishments: In track, becoming top three in our school for the 400. In basketball, having multiple 20-point games. In volleyball, being on varsity since freshman year.

My biggest influence: My sister because I look up to her. I’ve seen the name she made for herself and I wanna do the same.

Leading the Bulldogs: Being

Outside of sports: I like to go

captain is a big opportunity to show the girls what to look up to. We all get along so well and work good together.

Favorite food: Sweet spaghetti. It’s like regular spaghetti, but made with brown sugar. It’s so good.

to the gym, work out and run for fun or hang out with my siblings or my friends.

Top of my playlist:

My goal: Become the best I can be and make history.

“Adorn” by Miguel.

Future plans: I want to go to college for sports while studying in the medical field to become a cardiologist.

Know a talented student/athlete? Fill us in! Email your recommendations to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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CINDY PETERSON

CENTRAL FLORIDA PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Serra was born in Easton, PA. He spent his entire childhood in Bushnell, FL. His father, Gene Serra MD, was a general surgeon in Leesburg, FL and served as his inspiration to pursue a career in medicine.

After graduation from South Sumter High School in 1985 as class valedictorian, Dr. Serra participated in the prestigious Junior Honors Medical Program at the University of Florida, a 7-year combined BS-MD program. After completion of his MD in 1992, Dr. Serra completed a 6-year integrated plastic surgery residency at the Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. In 1998, he founded Central Florida Plastic Surgery with offices in Leesburg, Clermont, and The Villages. In 2008, the home office was transferred to The Villages and is now the exclusive location for the practice. Dr. Serra has surgical privileges at UF Health Leesburg and Santa Fe Surgery Center in The Villages. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He resides in Oxford, FL.

American Board of Plastic Surgery

American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

American Society of Plastic Surgeons

American College of Surgeons

drserra.com | 352-259-0722

Lake Sumter Landing Professional Plaza | 910 Old Camp Rd. Suite 142 | The Villages O C T ' 2 6 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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MALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE

Brennan Henderson Yellow Jackets linebacker pushes to leave his footprint on the field. STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

PERFORMANCE PROFILE

School: Leesburg High School

• Bench press: 260 pounds

Grade: Senior

• 2025 season record: 50 tackles

Age: 17

• Achievement: Set a district record in sacks

Sport: Football

• Other sports: Weightlifting

Jersey Number: 14

Position: Middle linebacker

Finding my position:

After graduation:

I played D-line as a freshman, outside linebacker as a junior and now I’m playing middle linebacker. I like linebacker the best.

Hopefully, I’ll play college football. I’m interested in LSU or West Florida.

Game I always look forward to: Leesburg vs. Eustis.

Biggest influence:

Legacy I want to leave: I hope I leave my footprint here (at Leesburg High). I gave it all, I just left it all on the field and I hope I’ll be remembered.

Coach Q. He’s my coach on defense.

skills to my playing and the way I handle myself.

Heading into senior year: I want to influence the young guys to keep going and leave a good role model for them.

How I’ve grown: I’ve changed from my leadership

My goal: I want 100 tackles this season. Last season, I had 50. Toughest challenge: Going through changes with the coaches and players, learning how to adapt and just learning from it and growing.

What I’ll remember most: The bond and relationship I have with the players and the coaches.

Player I look up to: Ray Lewis because of his mentality when he steps on the field and the way he carries himself around his teammates.

Know a talented student/athlete? Fill us in! Email your recommendations to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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CINDY PETERSON

“We can honestly say that whilst we were somewhat reluctant to sign with Wiseman owing to the long lead time from contract signing to completion, the ﬁnished product was well worth the wait. The custom design is exactly what we asked for and we maintain that the craftsmanship of the pool, spa, equipment, pavers, screen enclosure, and summer kitchen are second to none.” — TOM & LYNDA MURPHY

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

352.431.3766 | WisemanPools.com | 1517 W Main St., Leesburg

SPORTING FEATURE

Making

P M JU THE

After dominating two district championships, 14-year-old Cameron Thornton is looking for his next slam dunk. STORY: CINDY PETERSON PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON AND PROVIDED

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t 6-foot-2, Cameron Thornton is used to having a size advantage on the basketball court. That changed when the 14-yearold shooting guard arrived at Lake Minneola High School this year. “The biggest challenge was the transition from middle school to high school,” Cameron says. “When I got to middle school, all the people were shorter than me and not as strong. It was a big change coming into high school where they are all stronger than me.” The adjustment has meant spending more time in the weight room while continuing to sharpen the skills that have been developing since he first picked up a basketball around age 4. “I just picked up a basketball and loved it from there,” Cameron says. Basketball quickly became his sport. Before moving on to Lake Minneola, Cameron helped Minneola Charter School win two district championships and set a school record with 44 points in a

single game. His father, Andre, says Cameron averaged about 26 points per game during his final middle school season and could take control when his team needed him. Cameron’s athletic ability extends beyond basketball. He also competed in track, becoming a state champion in the high jump, and played flag football. Still, basketball remains his priority. Cameron’s favorite NBA team is the Los Angeles Lakers,

I TRY TO LOCK INTO THE GAME. ONCE I GET IN THE GAME, I JUST FLOW.” —CAMERON THORNTON

E MOR AN A

E M A G TH

although Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards is the player he most enjoys watching. However, given the chance to play anyone one-on-one, he would choose LeBron James. Could he score? “Probably, like, one point,” Cameron says. Cameron describes himself as a “calm, collected leader” who values good sportsmanship. One of the strongest parts of his game, he says, is leading his teammates. His father has been his biggest influence. “He’s keeps pushing me forward,” Cameron says. “He’s always trying to motivate me.” That push is becoming less necessary. His father says Cameron’s work ethic has grown to the point that he now takes responsibility for working out on his own. Before games, Cameron tries to keep things simple.

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“I try to lock into the game,” he says. “Once I get in the game, I just flow.” His routine includes pogo hops to get his body ready and prayer before taking the court. This year he hopes to add to his two favorite memories: playing in international tournaments in Puerto Rico, where he recorded his first in-game dunk, and his 44-point performance. Now, he is working on defense, transitions, strength and learning to play with a mostly new group of teammates under secondyear Lake Minneola Coach Kewaski Jackson. His long-term goals are considerably bigger. Cameron hopes to play basketball at a higher level. If basketball doesn’t become his career, he is already considering two very different paths in sports medicine or aerospace. Why not both? For now, there are four years of high school basketball ahead and a drive to exceed all expectations.

Where ambition thrives and excellence leads. In this special section, we spotlight the entrepreneurs, industry leaders and standout businesses redefining success while strengthening the economic and cultural landscape of Lake and Sumter counties.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Bright Side Services:

Taylor Krueger

Christina

5-Star Quality Cleaning You Can Trust hen the housing market crashed in 2007, Michelle Krueger was working for a Central Florida custom home builder. Watching people get laid off, Michelle took a client’s advice and started her own business, Bright Side Services, Inc. “I started off as a window washing company and those clients encouraged me to get into cleaning because they wanted their homes as clean as their windows,” says Michelle. “About two years in, the business morphed into more cleaning than window washing.” She never imagined it would grow like it has, but she’s closing in on two decades in business. “This was a God thing. From the day I quit the development company, I’ve never had one day I didn’t have work,” says Michelle. “The customers just called as if God was laying them in my path. Today, this business supports 20 employees, and none of them work a second job.” The secret is hiring and training happy people who love to clean. “Our cleaning technicians are the highest paid in the area. This is not a minimum wage job; it’s a career,” says Michelle, who was part of the cleaning team for the first 14 years. “Some cleaning companies subcontract, but all my cleaning technicians are W2

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employees, bonded, insured and background checked.” BRIGHT SIDE SERVICES OFFERS:

• Deep cleaning • Recurring maintenance cleaning • Move in/out cleaning • Priority cleaning • Window washing The business specializes in residential cleaning. Pricing is based on square footage and the level of cleaning requested. For example, with priority cleaning, the client decides what is a priority, while a deep cleaning involves hands-on wiping of all surfaces to remove build-up. Most clients start with a deep clean first and then rely on recurring maintenance cleans going forward. The business model is to use a solo cleaner. “We send one person to your home. It’s a higher level of accountability, and they have a system,” says Michelle. “Our work has a 24-hour satisfaction guarantee. If we miss something, we will come back at the earliest time convenient for you and make it right.”

Michelle Krueger

Michelle believes in giving back and partners with Cleaning for a Reason, a charity organization that provides free housecleaning for people going through cancer treatment. Bright Side Services has an office building in Eustis so you’re welcome to stop in. Or call today for an estimate and let Bright Side Services get you on the path to sparkling clean.

Bright Side Services 712 N. Grove Street, Eustis 352.434.8391 brightsideservicesinc.com

LUCKY U CYCLES:

ast fun on two wheels has always been Jeremy Coon’s passion. The Leesburg native graduated from Leesburg High School in 2001 but was working at the local Harley shop since he was 16. “I did that until I was 23 and then started my own company in 2007,” says Jeremy. He built Lucky U Cycles in Wildwood from the ground up--one motorcycle at a time. Jeremy didn’t keep track of the countless hours of hard work as he pursued his goals. Turns out plenty of people shared his enthusiasm and the shop became a destination for riders from across Florida and well beyond state lines. Beginning with used bikes, Lucky U Cycles grew its inventory to offer an impressive selection of motorcycles, scooters, trikes, off-road vehicles and LSVs. The shop is literally packed with hundreds of clean, quality pre-owned bikes. The service department became one of the largest in Lake and Sumter Counties and services all makes and models.

“We sell 1,200 a year and starting the summer of 2026, we added new bikes to the inventory,” says Jeremy. “We’re especially excited to welcome the legendary Italian brands Aprilia, Vespa, Piaggio and Moto Guzzi.” Residents of The Villages will be happy to discover that Vespa—one of the world’s most recognized scooter brands—makes getting around town a lot more fun and stylish. Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Piaggio offer over a century of performance, heritage, and timeless design, offering more adventurous options for riders. This current year has been significant for more than expanded inventory, as Lucky U Cycles opened a second location in Fort Myers in March 2026. “Our Fort Myers location has quickly become another important part of our company,” says Jeremy, who splits time between both shops. “Fort Myers offers a large selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles, scooters, trikes, off-road vehicles and LSVs.” Lucky U Cycles has always been about giving customers an abundance

of choices. To make it easy for them to own the ride of their dreams, financing is available. Jeremy is proud of how his business has grown through the years, but he refuses to stray from the principles that got him this far. “It’s all about taking care of people, working hard and selling fun,” he says. Lucky U Cycles may have a bigger selection, more brands and two locations, but the passion behind it remains the same.

Lucky U Cycles 9049 N. Hwy 301, Wildwood 352.330.0047 4607 Fowler St., Fort Myers 239.415.3271 luckyucycles.com Jeremy Coon

Bringing

Lisa Rojas

hen it’s time to make a great impression, two trusted local businesses are making it easier than ever to get the job done. A Plus Printing and Victory Engraving & Awards are now together under one roof. This summer, owner Lisa Rojas brought the two long-established businesses together in one location, giving customers a true one-stop shop for all their printing and engraving needs. Whether you need business cards, banners, employee name badges, or beautifully engraved glass and crystal awards for corporate recognition or a special occasion, you can now find it all in one convenient location. Best of all, every order is backed by decades of experience, quality craftsmanship and personalized service. For Lisa, owning and operating local businesses is especially meaningful because Lake County has always been home. She and her husband, Rick Rojas of RJ Builders,

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IDEAS to LIFE both graduated from Leesburg High School and raised their family in the community. When Lisa purchased A Plus Printing in 2008, the company was already an established local business. She continued building on that foundation and expanding the products and services available to customers. In April 2026, Lisa purchased Victory Engraving & Awards, another longtime local business with a history spanning more than 35 years. “Victory has had a great reputation for years, so I wanted to keep the name and continue what the business had built in the community,” Lisa says. While the products and technology have changed over the years, Lisa believes one thing remains just as important as ever: personal service. “If you need the items shipped, we’ll take care of that,” she adds. “We also do local deliveries.” For Lisa, it isn’t simply about completing an order. It’s about building long-term relationships with customers and helping turn their

ideas into something they’re proud to hand out, display, wear or give to someone else. AMONG THE MANY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OFFERED ARE:

• Banners • Business Cards • Brochures • Blueprints • Apparel and Embroidery • Stickers • Magnets • Yard Signs

• Corporate Awards • Scholastic Awards • Athletic Awards • Electrical Tags • Signage • Traditional Engraving

A Plus Printing 352.323.0077 | aplusprintit.com 9922 US Hwy 441, Leesburg

Victory Engraving & Award 352.343.8886 orders.victoryengraving@gmail.com 9922 US Hwy 441, Leesburg

For nearly two decades, DNJ Construction has helped Villages homeowners make more of the spaces they love. or owners Jason McDonald and David Bates, the way to run a successful business is pretty simple. “Do what you say you’re going to do, use quality materials and do the job right,” Jason says. “That’s how we handle every job we take on.” That straightforward philosophy has served Jason and David well for nearly two decades. Family owned and operated, DNJ Construction specializes in helping homeowners throughout The Villages make more of the homes they already love with room additions, lanai windows, birdcages and other screen enclosures designed around their needs. Lanai windows are one of DNJ’s specialties. Although a roofed lanai offers shade and outdoor living space, its openings can still allow in rain, dirt, pollen and outside temperatures. DNJ can install glass windows to enclose the space, making it cleaner, more comfortable and easier to enjoy throughout the year. Homeowners who need even more space can turn to DNJ for a room addition. Birdcages and other screen enclosures offer another option by expanding the usable outdoor area and providing more room for relaxing, dining

and entertaining without the nuisance of bugs. Whatever the project, Jason says DNJ focuses on quality materials, dependable workmanship and personal customer service. “We just want our customers to like us when we’re done; we should be able to be friends,” he says. “Most of all, they should love their new space.” Jason and David are Central Florida locals, as are many of the people who work alongside them. After years of doing business in The Villages, DNJ has developed a loyal following built largely through referrals and homeowners who remember the company long after their projects are finished. Jason jokes that he never has to worry about running into an unhappy former customer at Publix because for DNJ Construction, a successful project is about more than adding space to a home.

It is about doing work that lasts and leaving homeowners happy they chose DNJ. “Do the job right and when it’s finished, make sure the homeowner is happy to see you again whether it’s 10 days or 10 years later,” Jason says. “We have quite the fan club of previous customers out there and we love that.”

DnJ Construction 407.416.2039 | dnjconstructionfl.com FL LIC. CBC1253404

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People First, Quality Always ecognized as Central Florida’s #1 Custom Homebuilder, Kevco Builders will celebrate 47 years in business in 2027. Across Central Florida, Kevco has partnered with several local developments as their preferred builder. Many property owners also choose Kevco to build custom one-of-a-kind homes on their land. Whether building in a community or on private property, quality workmanship is the common denominator. As a veteran-owned business, Kevco Builders makes it a priority to put people first. “Kevco has always been about relationships and taking care of people. My time in the military and fire service reinforced the importance of serving others, and that commitment has played a big part in our success,” says President Ian Kaneshige. Ian served on active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1998 to 2007. Originally from Bayonne, New Jersey, in 2014 Ian moved to Central Florida with his wife and three daughters. He has been a Licensed REALTOR® since 2008 in New York, New Jersey, California, and Florida. Since 2012, Ian has specialized in building and selling custom homes. He works closely with Kevco clients and the construction team to ensure a smooth, seamless custom home experience.

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It’s not just about building outstanding homes. Making a difference in the community means giving back and helping others. His military background inspired Ian and Kevco Builders to step up and work with Habitat for Humanity’s ProBuild--an industry-led effort that supports affordable homeownership for a local veteran family. “Habitat is building a house for a veteran now and we are very involved in this ProBuild project,” says Ian. “Kevco is sponsoring multiple aspects of this project, including lighting and appliances.” Jingle Build-Off is another Habitat for Humanity project that Kevco proudly participates in every year. Local families in Lake and Sumter counties are selected to receive the special gift of a custom-built playhouse. Kevco Builders helps sponsor Jingle Build-Off and has construction staff on hand to support this team-building competition that benefits local families. In addition to partnering with Habitat for Humanity on these important projects, Kevco Builders gives back by supporting Lake County Schools and other local organizations through volunteerism, partnerships, and other community initiatives.

Ian Kaneshige

Kevco Builders 352.742.3398 | kevcobuilders.com 2104 S. Bay Street, Eustis

or nearly three decades, Spa Kingdom has been helping Central Florida families relax, recharge and enjoy life at home. This December, the family-owned and operated company will celebrate 27 years in business—a milestone built on hard work, personal service and generations of family involvement. The story began in 1999, when Larry and Beth Smith opened Spa Kingdom after moving their family from Connecticut to Florida in 1987. The original location was in the old Castle building on U.S. Highway 441 in Lady Lake, which has since been replaced by Wawa. From those early days, Larry, Beth and their son Matthew worked together to build the business, combining a strong work ethic with attention to detail and a commitment to treating customers like neighbors. Spa Kingdom soon became a true family enterprise. Larry and Beth’s children—Rebecca (Becky), Matthew, Jessica and Gregory—have all worked in the business, and today another generation is growing up around the family company.

Larry now serves primarily as safety manager while enjoying more retirement time with Beth. Matthew and Becky oversee the company’s day-to-day operations and continue the tradition their parents started. TODAY, SPA KINGDOM OFFERS:

• American Whirlpool, Vita Spa and Caldera hot tubs • MAAX PowerPools • Emerge cold plunges THE FAMILY’S SECOND LOCATION, FLORIDA SPA AND POOL WAREHOUSE IN LEESBURG, FEATURES:

• Hot Spring hot tubs • Endless Pools • Tylo saunas • Vigor cold plunges

“We have everything for your wellness journey,” says Matthew. “We’re fully licensed and insured, and we protect our customers by not subcontracting our work. Our team is here to help you from start to finish and beyond.” That hands-on approach extends well beyond sales. Spa Kingdom services all makes and models of hot tubs and maintains an extensive parts department with many hard-tofind and discontinued parts.

The company now employs approximately 30 people, including seven family members. Many employees have been part of the Spa Kingdom family for years, including service technician Cody, who has been with the company for 24 years. After 27 years, the mission remains simple: provide knowledgeable, friendly service and products designed to help customers swim, soak, steam and plunge their way to better living.

Spa Kingdom 352.728.0772 spakingdom.com 3050 US Hwy 441/27, Fruitland Park

Florida Spa and Pool Warehouse 352.787.7665 floridaspaandpoolwarehouse.com 1412 Griffin Rd., Leesburg

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Attention to Detail: RJ Builders, Inc. Soon to Celebrate 25 Years

ick Rojas considers each home he builds to be a work of art, designed with care and craftsmanship for each individual homeowner. Rick has been in the construction industry for 38 years and in 2027, his company RJ Builders, Inc. celebrates 25 years in business. Raised in Leesburg, Rick graduated from Leesburg High School in 1984. His construction career began early on while attending college in South Florida. What started as a small remodeling business, to working the trades hands-on from the ground up, Rick moved on to working for a large builder/developer, further expanding his construction experience in residential/multifamily/commercial construction and land development. In 1998, eager to raise his children in the same community where he grew up, Rick returned home to Leesburg. He worked as a construction manager for a local custom home builder until his employer encouraged Rick to start his own company, which he

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did and in 2002, RJ Builders, Inc. was established. TODAY, RJ BUILDERS, INC. BUILDS THROUGHOUT CENTRAL FLORIDA, PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INCLUDING:

• Residential and Commercial Construction • Large Scale Additions and Remodels • Commercial Build-outs • Land Development

Committed to quality in every aspect of building, Rick is proactive in the construction industry as a whole. Sitting on the board of directors of the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter, he remains active in government affairs. Having sat on the Board of Examiners for Lake County, he prioritizes being up-to-date on building codes and standards. Rick has a long resume. He’s a father, husband, pilot, flight instructor, realtor, disc jockey, and business owner. “Having received assistance from so many individuals in helping me get my business started, I am a big advocate of helping others pursue their business passions,” he says. “For me, it’s all about community and helping others in achieving their

dreams,” says Rick, who sat on the Lake-Sumter College Foundation Board and built two homes for the Foundation, to assist students with additional scholarship opportunities. Rick and his wife Lisa, also a Leesburg business owner, have been married since 2009. They are humbled by the decades of support for their businesses, and proud to raise their family in their hometown. Attention to detail is obvious in every RJ Builders’ project. Whether building someone’s home or office, the company is all about doing things the right way. RJ Builders has been recognized with numerous awards, but for Rick Rojas building is more than assembling walls and a roof. Every project is an opportunity to create something lasting--a place families can call home for years to come.

RJ Builders, Inc. 352.787.4600 rjbuildersflorida.com 9738 US Hwy 441, Suite 106, Leesburg LICENSE # CBC-058760

Built on Family. Growing with the Next Generation.

or more than five decades, Scott’s Roofing has been a family business. But being family-owned means more than having the same last name on the company, it means each generation takes responsibility for carrying forward the reputation the generation before them worked so hard to build. Today, siblings Tyler Scott and Sarah Scott Varnadore are doing exactly that. As the third generation of the Scott family working in the business, Tyler and Sarah grew up around roofing. They watched their father, Tommy Scott, dedicate his career to serving local homeowners and building relationships throughout Central Florida. Now, they’re working alongside him while preparing for the day when their generation takes the lead. Tyler is positioned to eventually take over the company from Tommy, with Sarah alongside him helping lead the operational side of the business. “There’s something really special about getting to work alongside my dad and my brother every day,” says Sarah. “Tyler and I have different strengths, but we both care deeply about this company, our employees and making sure our customers feel taken care of from beginning to end.”

Tyler Scott and Sarah Scott Varnadore

That sibling relationship has become one of the company’s greatest strengths. Tyler and Sarah know when to challenge each other, when to listen and where each other’s strengths lie. Most importantly, they share the same goal: protecting the reputation their family has spent generations building. “Taking over a family business that has been around since 1973 comes with a lot of responsibility,” says Tyler. “We’re not trying to change what made us successful. We want to build on what our grandfather and dad created and make sure our customers continue receiving the personal service and quality work our family name has always stood for.” For Tyler and Sarah, a customer is never just another job on the

schedule. Every project carries their family name, and the experience a homeowner has today will shape how Scott’s Roofing is talked about tomorrow. Tommy may still be leading the way today, but the future of Scott’s Roofing is already taking shape beside him. Three generations. One family name. And a commitment to making sure the values that built Scott’s Roofing never change.

Scott’s Roofing 352.343.7788 | tscottroofing.com 15049 Old US Hwy 441, Tavares

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DISCOVER THE POTENTIAL OF YOUR

Living Space

Chad Purvis

n a world where change is constant, it’s reassuring to know that some things stand the test of time. Showcase Furniture in Mount Dora has been a trusted resource for Central Florida homeowners for 34 years. The family-owned and operated business was launched by John and Cindy Purvis in 1992. Their son, Chad, began helping with deliveries when he was just 16. “I worked for my parents a long time and in 2023, I bought the business from them,” says Chad Purvis, who was born in the Keys when his dad, a Navy veteran, was stationed there. Whether you’re starting from scratch, or just need to replace a single piece, you’ll find a wide variety of furniture for every room in the house, as well as outdoor furniture and patio accessories. Showcase Furniture carries respected brands like Ashley, Stanley, Nectar, Liberty, and many more. The store makes an effort to offer products made in America. “I’ve been looking for coastal pieces and they had a fantastic selection. The whole team--from in-store to delivery-- were incredibly friendly and so easy to work with,” says customer Kristie Afonso. Many customers know what they want when they walk through the door, but others ask for advice. In that case, Chad and the Showcase

team are happy to help, whether a customer needs assistance putting together a room or a whole house. Shopping in person allows you to touch the items and better visualize how pieces will look in your home. “Some people shop furniture online, but if you come in you can sit on it and feel and see it for yourself,” says Chad. “Our prices are as good as internet prices and obviously, when you shop here, you’re supporting a local business and local employes.” “Their prices are incredibly fair. It was very easy to see why they've been around for over 30 years,” says customer Rubianne Foster. Although they’ve retired, John and Cindy Purvis stop in occasionally. Chad’s 16-year-old son, Alex, is following in his dad’s footsteps and helping at the store. Showcase Furniture offers no interest financing and provides delivery and set up across Central Florida. With seasonal celebrations and family gatherings just around the corner, now is the perfect time to update your space and get your home ready.

Showcase Furniture 352.357.0080 | showcasefurniture.net 4580 Highway 19A, Mt. Dora

INTRODUCING THE

Chiropractic Center of Central Florida

he Chiropractic Center of Central Florida is dedicated to helping patients move better, feel better, and remain active through every stage of life. The practice is overseen by Dr. Anthony Fahsholtz, Chiropractic Physician, a graduate of the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic, with more than a decade of clinical experience providing personalized, conservative chiropractic care. Dr. Fahsholtz is also a Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified professional, with advanced training in identifying movement dysfunction, golf-related injuries, rehabilitation needs, and physical limitations that may affect a golfer’s performance.

Whether the goal is improving your golf game, moving more comfortably through everyday life, or simply staying active doing the things you love, the Chiropractic Center of Central Florida is committed to helping patients improve mobility, manage pain, and maintain long-term function through natural, nonsurgical approaches. Recognizing that every patient has different needs and goals, the practice offers a variety of treatment options that can be incorporated into individualized care plans, including: • Non-Surgical Neck and Spinal Decompression • Class IV Laser Therapy • Electrical Muscle Stimulation Therapy • Therapeutic Ultrasound • Variety of Chiropractic Adjustment Techniques

18 OF THE LAST 20 MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS W E R E W O N B Y P L AY E R S A D V I S E D B Y A T P I C E R T I F I E D E X P E R T.

Chiropractic Center of Central Florida 352.530.2018 | mycccfl.org 1400 N. US Hwy 441, Bldg. 952, Lady Lake

DOGGIBAGS BY KIMME:

Legacy Continues or expert monogramming, personalized stationery, and custom gifts, one beloved Leesburg business has been the trusted source for decades. Now with Kim Paulling at the helm, the legacy started by her Aunt Dell continues at a new address. In the 1970s, Dell Ross started a home business making handbags embellished with embroidery. She called her clever creations “Doggibags” and set up shop in downtown Leesburg in 1983. “We’re a third-generation hometown Leesburg family,” says Kim. “I wanted to learn to sew and when I was 20, Aunt Dell called my bluff and said, ‘Be here at 5:00 on Saturday morning,’ and yes, I showed up!” She learned to sew and still loves it. While Kim and her husband Kevin raised two children, Karley and Kannon, Kim worked for the Lake County School system for 17 years. “The plan was always that when Aunt Dell retired, Kevin and I were going to take over Doggibags, but sadly, cancer took him two years ago,” says Kim. She stuck to the plan, retired from the school system and now has her dream job after Aunt Dell and her husband, Guy, moved to his hometown of Reidsville, North Carolina. Doggibags by KimmE offers personalization, baby gifts, and fast, expert monogramming on name brand apparel of all types. The shop

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also has a DTF (digital transfer film) machine. “The beauty of this machine is that there’s no quantity limit like with screen printing; I can print one or 300 shirts, so it’s great for family reunions, businesses, teams and groups,” says Kim. Nothing is outsourced. All work is completed in-house. If you’re a former customer of Dell’s, rest assured, Kim has all her old files and logos. After she took over Doggibags this February, Kim moved it into the building she owned on North Canal Street just off Main Street. The business name includes Kevin’s nickname for her, KimmE. Some people walk in expecting to find doggie treats or supplies. They quickly realize it’s not a dog shop, but if you want to personalize a bandana or collar for your dog, Kim can certainly do that. Customers also

enjoy meeting “Princess Jazmynn,” Kim’s sweet English Springer Spaniel, who accompanies her to work every day. “They say you never work if you love what you do and this is definitely my happy place,” says Kim. “I can’t wait to get to work every day.”

Doggibags by KimmE 352.326.8090 | doggibagsbykimme.com 510 North Canal Street, Leesburg

SEE YOUR HOME IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT:

Customized Lighting Solutions from Liquid Lights LEDs ight changes everything. The right lighting does more than illuminate a space. It creates atmosphere, draws attention to the details that make it unique, and transforms the way your home or property looks and feels. That idea has been at the heart of Liquid Lights LEDs since owners Marc Iceberg, Logan Genter and Ed Genter built the family-owned business from the ground up in 2013. Headquartered in Fruitland Park, the company began with golf cart safety lighting before expanding into residential, commercial and recreational projects. Today, Liquid Lights LEDs offers customized lighting solutions, including: • Pool Cage and Lanai Lighting • Pool Cage Sconces • Landscape Lighting • Permanent Holiday Lighting • Kitchen Cabinet Lighting • Golf Cart Safety Lighting

Quality remained a priority as the company has grown. Liquid Lights is the company’s own brand of lighting, developed specifically for

Ed Genter Marc Iceberg Logan Genter

its customers and continually refined over the years. “High quality products were our main goal and Liquid Lights is our own brand of LED lighting manufactured specifically for us,” says co-owner Marc Iceberg. “We have tweaked and improved the systems through the years, so when someone calls us for a project, they’re getting the most up-to-date, high-quality products we offer.” Liquid Lights LEDs systems are energy- and cost-efficient, versatile, weatherproof and fully customizable. But the company’s focus extends beyond the products themselves. Customer service and communication are equally important. “Communication is huge with us; we’re in constant communication with our customers throughout the process,” says Marc. “We send appointment reminders, call when we’re on the way, and follow-up after installation.” Every project begins with an in-home complimentary consultation conducted by one of the company’s owners. Marc, Logan or Ed will meet with the homeowner, discuss their vision, explain available options and provide a quote.

The team can also consult with homeowners before a pool cage is built, helping ensure the lighting system is planned for the desired finished effect. “Most people want pool cage lighting and front of house permanent holiday lighting, but no project is too big or too small,” says Marc. “Our two pillars are customer service and high-quality products. We provide a lifetime warranty on all installations.” Although much of the company’s work is in The Villages and surrounding areas, Liquid Lights LEDs also serves the greater central Florida area and beyond. With typical lead times of about 30 days, homeowners considering permanent holiday lighting should call office manager Katie now to schedule an in-home consultation and get their project underway.

Liquid Lights LEDs 352.314.3065 liquidlightsleds.com 104 N. Dixie Avenue, Fruitland Park

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COME FOR THE VIEW,

Stay for Dinner inner at Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Grill comes with something few restaurants can put on the menu: an expansive view of Lake Dora. Located along the downtown Tavares waterfront, the restaurant offers a relaxed setting for enjoying dinner, drinks and live music. Guests can dine indoors, settle onto the screened patio or head upstairs, where the lake becomes a striking backdrop for an evening out. Owner Jon Aramino describes the menu as “American Fare with a twist,” pairing familiar favorites with flavors diners may not expect. Along with steak, seafood and signature burgers, choices include a bacon jam and goat cheeseburger and fried cheese “pontoons” served with chipotle raspberry sauce instead of marinara. “We like to have things that people are familiar with, but we also like to offer new and unique things that taste delicious,” Jon says. Puddle Jumpers is a scratch kitchen where approximately 90% of its dressings and sauces are made in-house. The kitchen also handbatters its fish and chicken, makes its own crab cakes and introduces a fresh catch and butcher’s cut each week. Weekday specials, with the purchase of any beverage, offer another reason to stop in. Diners can find a $12 cheeseburger Monday, specially priced tacos Tuesday, a $9 coconut shrimp appetizer and half-price bottles of wine Wednesday,

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Jon Aramino

eight wings for $8 Thursday and $4 off fish and chips Friday. Happy hour runs from 3–6pm Monday through Friday with $2 off all bottled and draft beer, glasses of wine and all well and signature drinks. On weekends, the waterfront becomes even livelier with solo musicians performing from 6–9pm Saturday and 3–6pm. Sunday. Puddle Jumpers is also testing full-band performances from 7–10pm on the first Friday of October, November and December. Upstairs, the restaurant’s refreshed second floor is open for dining when it is not reserved. The space may also be rented for birthday parties, reunions, weddings and other private gatherings, with banquet information available online. “It’s a beautiful place to sit and hang out,” Jon says. Jon brings 37 years of restaurant experience to Puddle Jumpers, which

he opened in September 2015 after working nearly every position in the business, from busser and cook to server, manager and owner. “Having my own place allows me and my chefs the creative freedom to offer a great place for people to go for spectacular views, quality entertainment and some of the best food around,” he says.

Puddle Jumpers 352.508.5862 | puddlejumpersfl.com 111 W Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778

Stephen Thomas

YOUR LOCAL PLUMBER:

Taking Care of the Community hen business grows, you know you’re doing something right. Over the past three years, Your Local Plumber has expanded its service area to meet the needs of Central Florida customers— both residential and commercial. Built by Floridians who were raised here and love their community, the women-owned, family-operated business rebranded this year and updated its name to better represent its services. Based in Umatilla, the company has rapidly built a reputation for quality work, reliability and taking care of its customers. Co-owners Kathy Bordeaux and Destiny Thomas lead a reliable crew directed by master plumber Stephen Thomas. With 10 plumbing technicians and apprentices and five trucks on the road, Your Local Plumber services customers across the heart of Florida. “We enjoy taking care of our residential customers, but we’re always happy to help our local businesses— everything from restaurants, churches and schools to mobile home

Destiny Thomas

communities and more,” says Stephen Thomas, who brings over two decades of plumbing experience to the job. YOUR LOCAL PLUMBER HANDLES ALL MANNER OF PLUMBING NEEDS, INCLUDING: • Leak detection and repair • Installation of toilets, sinks, water heaters, shower valves, water conditioners • Camera inspection of sewage systems • Hydro-jetting of sewer lines • Drain field and septic tank installation • Re-piping • Gas piping (natural and propane)

“Hydro-jetting cleans sewer, and grease lines, and gets rid of grease, build-up, and calcium scales, which comes in real handy with commercial kitchens,” says Stephen, who is always looking for new technology that can provide better solutions for customers. As chief operations officer, Stephen is hands-on in all aspects of the business and works closely in training technicians. He is always happy to collaborate with contractors on larger projects. Born and raised in Umatilla, Stephen appreciates being

Kathy Bordeaux

able to serve the community he’s always called home. As Your Local Plumber continues to grow, the focus remains simple: providing outstanding customer service; and they know they could not do it without their dedicated team of technicians. The team is all about providing outstanding customer service while doing first-rate work. “Whether we’re servicing a home or a business, we care about the property we’re working on because it matters to you,” says Kathy, who has a lengthy background in business management, plumbing and construction. If you have a plumbing issue, large or small, Your Local Plumber is here to help. Call today for all your plumbing needs.

Your Local Plumber 352.663.0070 ylplumbers.com | CFC1432196

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Tasia Drayton

Enriching

LIVES one

PERSON at a time

hat Tasia Drayton saw in the healthcare industry after becoming a CNA, inspired her to start her own home care agency in 2017. She named her business exactly what was needed: Compassionate Connections. The agency provides clientcentered homemaker, companion, and personal care services in Lake, Sumter, Marion, and surrounding counties. A fifth generation Floridian, Tasia launched the company in her hometown of Eustis, but from the start, she had bigger goals in mind. “I want to be the Chick-fil-A of homecare,” she says. “I want to show that you can grow and be a big company and keep your integrity.” Her plan was always to franchise her company. She officially awarded her first Compassionate Connections franchise in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 3, 2026. The franchisee plans to open by February 2027.

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“I’ve been branding the business from the beginning to set us apart,” says Tasia. “I’ve talked to many people who want a franchise, but I’m treating it like I do choosing caregivers. This is my baby, and I want each franchisee to be in it for the right reasons and feel the same way I do about the caregiving business.” Matching clients with the right caregivers is one of the secrets to her success. “We’re picky when hiring caregivers. Everyone who joins our care team has Level 2 background checks, but it’s not just about passing a background check,” says Tasia, who has her own background company on site. “We really pride ourselves on choosing people with empathy,” she says. “The way we vet people is that we look deeper than just a background check and how long someone has been a CNA. We pay attention to the ‘why’ someone is doing this work, because it’s not just a shift.” Full-time care coordinator, Miriam Silva plays a big role in matching caregivers with clients.

A common complaint about the home health care industry is lack of caregiver training, so the next project on Tasia’s agenda is opening a CNA school. “We thoroughly train our caregivers, including bedside manner and emphasizing compassion, but we want to make it so CNAs get the training they need even if they’re not working for us,” she says. When Tasia launched Compassionate Connections in 2017, she was a one-woman show. She now employs over 80 caregivers, not counting office staff. She and her husband Marvin have two daughters: Majesty, 9, and Royalty, 3.

Compassionate Connections Home Care 352.800.6187 www.compassionatecnx.com 3103 Eudora Road, Eustis

F OOD DRIN KS REVI EWS

IN THE KITCHEN Old-world Italian flavors and the warmth of a family table come together at Amoré in Clermont.

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IN THE KITCHEN

RECIPE

Made with Amoré Chef Julian Sarjani invites you to experience real Italian food as a guest at his family’s table. STORY: ROXANNA BATRIZ

≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

In 2008, Julian and his brother unday dinner was a big opened Fratelli’s in downtown Orlando. deal in Chef Julian Sarjani’s Julian envisioned risotto, veal, seafood childhood home. and the dishes he loved creating, but “Every Sunday was like a downtown workers on short lunch huge table at our house. I breaks largely wanted pizza, wings and grew up with my grandma’s familiar favorites. and my mom’s recipes,” Julian He adjusted but never forgot the says as he fondly recalls family restaurant he really wanted: a sit-down gathering around a table full of place where he could cook the food he homemade dishes. treasured and build relationships with Decades later, flavors from returning guests. Julian’s earliest memories of food are It took years, but he finally reached coming out of his kitchen at Amore his goal and with his wife, Alda, Italian Ristorante in Clermont. opened Amoré on Jan. 4, 2023 after a Julian grew up with strong Italian influences in Albania. His Alda Serjani & Chef Julian Serjani grandmother was born in Italy and his mother spent her early childhood there. Julian came to the United States in 1999 shortly after graduating college and immediately entered the restaurant business. He worked for his uncle in Sarasota before eventually joining Ruth’s Chris Steak House, where he moved from prep cook to trainer and then management. The experience taught him well. “To open your own restaurant, you cannot be just a good chef,” Julian says.

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post-pandemic buildout stretched to nearly two years. This time, the old recipes came with him. Some originated with his mother and grandmother. Others came from years spent in restaurant kitchens and still others are Julian’s own creations. The result is Italian food that may taste a little different to diners accustomed to Americanized Italian fare and that’s intentional. Julian points to Alfredo as an example. In Italy, he says, panna, or heavy cream, may be used sparingly to add creaminess or alter a flavor rather than becoming the foundation of a heavy cream sauce. Spaghetti and meatballs, another American favorite, isn't traditionally served as a single dish in Italy. Still, Julian has learned to balance tradition with what his guests enjoy. “I want to try to keep my authenticity,” he says. “I want to try to keep my origin, my roots, but I want my guests to enjoy what they like to eat.” That means familiar dishes share the menu with

Veal Chop alla Parmigiana *(see recipe)

IN THE KITCHEN

recipes and techniques closer to what Julian grew up eating and he takes pride in delivering the flavor he wants. Sauces are made from scratch, garlic is not treated timidly and select pastas are made fresh and served al dente, including pappardelle and the tagliatelle used for Amore’s Tuesday cheese wheel special. That table-side dish combines fresh egg pasta with garlic Parmesan sauce before Julian uses flame to melt the cheese and tosses the pasta inside the wheel. “People love the cheese wheel because people like interacting with the chef,” he says. Still, Julian leaves himself room to experiment by offering varying chef specials. His Chef’s Cut Veal Chop is prepared differently from time to time—perhaps Parmigiana one week, Marsala another, or wrapped with prosciutto and sage. The fish of the

day allows him to work with fresh selections ranging from grouper and snapper to branzino, halibut and swordfish.

“It gives me things to play around with and a way to use my creativity to experiment with new dishes and new sauces,” he says.

Amoré isn't simply a restaurant. And service is not a strong enough word for what Julian wants people to feel the minute they walk through the door, a philosophy that sounds a lot like those crowded Sunday tables where his love of cooking began. “Everybody who’s working here is my family,” he says. “Everybody who comes here is my guest.”

When diners ask Julian to name his favorite, he can’t name just one. “They’re all my babies,” he says, adding that although some are spicier, some more lemony and some give him more room to experiment, they all belong in the restaurant he spent years imagining. His menu is about consistency. Julian knows some customers return for a specific dish they loved so his cooks follow recipes to deliver the same taste weeks or months later.

IF YOU GO

AMORÉ ITALIAN RISTORANTE 2608 S Hwy 27, Ste 100, Clermont 352.227.2003 amoreclermont.com Hours: Sun & Tue-Thu 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

Salmon Capri INGREDIENTS:

8 oz

center cut Atlantic Salmon

1 4

/ tsp

salt

1 4

/ tsp

black pepper

1 4

/ tsp

garlic powder

6 oz

mixed fresh vegetables (zucchini, squash, broccoli, carrots)

1 tsp

fresh minced garlic

DIRECTIONS:

Season salmon with salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Bake in the oven on 450 degrees for 15 minutes. Season vegetables with the same seasonings as the salmon, then sauté for 5 minutes with the minced garlic. Serve vegetables on the plate then place salmon on top and drizzle with Capri sauce *(see recipe) to taste.

Capri sauce INGREDIENTS:

butter

1 tsp

capers

1 tsp

fresh minced garlic

2 oz

white wine

1 Tbsp

onions

4 oz

chicken stock

cherry tomatoes cut in half

1 2

fresh squeezed lemon

1 Tbsp

DIRECTIONS:

Put butter and garlic in a hot pan then add all the other ingredients. Stir and simmer until vegetables are cooked and sauce is hot.

CHEESECAKE WITH BERRY TOPPING CHEESECAKE CRUST

BERRY SAUCE

INGREDIENTS:

16 oz

graham crackers, crushed

1 Ib

blueberries

4 oz

melted butter

1 Ib

raspberries

1 Tbsp

sugar

1 Ib

blackberries

8 oz

water

6-8 oz

sugar (depending on how sweet the berries are)

DIRECTIONS:

Veal Chop alla Parmigiana INGREDIENTS:

16 oz

veal chop

egg, beaten

slices mozzarella cheese

In bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter and sugar and mix well. Spoon, evenly spread and press mixture into the bottom of a 12-inch cake pan, then bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

INGREDIENTS:

cream cheese

flour

12 oz

sugar

buttermilk

2 oz

vanilla extract

eggs

6 oz

sour cream

Panko breadcrumbs

DIRECTIONS:

Lightly pound veal chop, dip it into a mix of buttermilk and egg, then coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Fry coated chop on a 375 degree pan for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on both sides and place it in an oven-safe dish. Top with homemade marinara sauce, 2 slices of mozzarella cheese and bake it at 500 degrees for 10 minutes. When done, serve with pasta.

Add the water and berries to a pot and cook over low heat. Add sugar (to taste) and bring to a boil while stirring until the water is reduced and you have a soft and creamy berry sauce. Keep sauce in a glass jar in the refrigerator and use it as a topping for the cheesecake in whole or for each slice on separate plates.

CHEESECAKE 4 Ib

*Marinara sauce and pasta of choice, prepared in advance

DIRECTIONS:

In bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar and vanilla extract together. Fold in 6 whole eggs, one at a time, then add the sour cream. Put the mixture in a cake pan and cook it a bain-marie (double boiler) for 90 minutes at 375 degrees. Let cool for 24 hours, then cut cake into 12 pieces.

"I want to try to keep my origin, my roots, but I want my guests to enjoy what they like to eat.” —CHEF JULIAN

Hey, readers! Do you have favorite recipes or know a chef we should profile? Comment on this article or send story ideas to roxanne@akersmediagroup.com.

ROXANNE BATRIZ

O C T ' 2 6 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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FORK ON THE ROAD

REVIEW

Hooked on Castaways One of Astor’s longtime favorite seafood restaurants delights diners from near and far. STORY: GINA HORAN ≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

t the northern tip of Lake County, State Road 40 carries motorists between Ocala, the St. Johns River and Florida’s Atlantic coast. Travelers of that route and locals “in the know” have been turning off the highway to visit Castaways Restaurant for nearly two decades. Motorists who pass by thinking they have to go to the ocean to find fresh seafood don’t know what they missed. “The biggest challenge has been getting people in the door,” Brian Martin says. “I hear all the time

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that people have driven by and never turned in.” “But once they come in, we’ve got ‘em for life.” Brian and wife Pam have given curious diners and repeat customers plenty of reasons to drop anchor in Astor since they opened Castaways in 2008 in a rented riverside restaurant on the St. Johns River. As business grew, Brian doubled seating capacity by converting an old houseboat into a barge. Years later, Brian and Pam bought property down the road, moved Castaways to its current location, and continued building the business.

They built on the belief that good food keeps people coming back. And Pam provides plenty of incentive to return. Before opening Castaways, Pam spent 20 years in a high-volume corporate seafood restaurant, where consistency was everything. She brought that same discipline to her kitchen but added freedom to cook from scratch. Open the freezer and you won’t find it packed with frozen, prebreaded seafood. Nearly every fried item is hand-breaded in-house, while soups, sauces and seafood are prepared the old-fashioned way.

Today, the recipes for the restaurant’s signature lobster bisque and clam chowder live almost entirely in Pam’s memory. “I don’t even know if I could write the recipe down at this point,” Pam says. During the busy season, the kitchen goes through gallons of soup every week. Ask Brian what separates Castaways from other restaurants and the answer comes quickly. “Variety,” he says. “I’ve done my homework. We have more than 20 appetizers because people get bored. Everybody is different.” The appetizer menu includes escargot, frog legs, gator bites, buffalo chicken wontons, fish dip and baconwrapped shrimp. Beyond the starters, diners will find fresh seafood, steaks, burgers, hand-cut fries and shrimp prepared just about any way they like. “If we have the ingredients, we’ll make it for you,” Brian says. “If you

aren’t having a good experience, we’ll fix it right then and there.” Hospitality is just as important as the food. Guests are greeted at the door by the staff and, on many days, by regulars like “Gator” Mark and “London” Dave. Server Linda has welcomed diners since the restaurant opened and has become a familiar face to generations of diners. Friday nights belong to local one-man band Ed Wofford, who has performed at Castaways since day one. The restaurant has become a gathering place for motorcycle riders, airboat clubs, golf outings, birthdays,

Brian and Pam Martin

anniversaries, celebrations of life and countless local fundraisers and charitable events. Helicopter pilots occasionally fly in from Ocala, Port Orange and New Smyrna Beach, landing on the property before stopping for lunch or one of Castaways’ brownie sundaes. A large sign outside proudly advertises the “Best Burger in Town.”

“People tell me it’s the best burger they’ve ever had,” Brian says. “I don’t mind, and I certainly won’t argue.” For Brian and Pam, the shared memories continue to inspire them. “I want people to be so happy about the experience that they promise to come back,” Brian says. “And they usually do.” IF YOU GO

CASTAWAYS RESTAURANT 23525 SR 40, Astor 352.759.2494 Facebook.com/Castaways2494

Let’s do lunch or dinner!

Tell us about a great restaurant by emailing gina@akersmediagroup.com.

GINA HORAN

O C T ' 2 6 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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DINING GUIDE

DINE

eats

From classic diners and lakeside restaurants to fine dining and everything in between, Lake and Sumter counties’ culinary scene is booming. Your favorite meal is sure to be served with a side of hospitality. You can find a copy of Lake & Sumter Style at all listed dining locations!

BUSHNELL

EUSTIS

GROVELAND

Amor & Agave

Gator’s Dockside

Red Wing Restaurant

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Magnolia Breeze

Barrels & Boards

2082 W CR 48 352.569.4221

2586 W CR 48 352.568.7000

Darrell’s Diner 2237 W CR 48 352.444.2318

CLERMONT

Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro

4300 S US Hwy. 27, Ste. 101 352.243.8988

Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W Montrose St. 352.404.9431

Crooked Spoon Gastropub

200 Citrus Tower Blvd. 352.404.7808

DonZito Pizza & Pasta 2395 S Hwy. 27 352.989.4403

Guru Indian Restaurant

2400 S Hwy. 27, Ste. 101 352.241.9884

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

15241 US Hwy. 441 352.357.1255 110 N Bay St. 352.357.0162

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 2911 David Walker Dr. 352.483.0137

Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W CR 44 352.589.9100

Subway

1930 N Hwy. 19 352.589.8887

Subway

469 Plaza Dr. 352.357.7827

Taki’s Pizza House

1600 S Bay St. 352.357.0022

THAT Place

925 N Bay St. #7 352.308.8676

The Troff

936 N Bay St. 352.357.9939

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

19239 US Hwy. 27 352.394.8627

F RU I T LA N D PA R K

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill

Mystic Ice Cream

230 Citrus Tower Blvd. 352.394.0036

Yummis Frozen Yogurt & Café 650 8th St. 352.243.4529

1217 W Miller St. 352.812.1366

Stavro’s & Sons 3223 US Hwy. 441 352.315.0028

The Rose Plantation 200 Rose Ave. 352.805.4340

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12500 S SR 33 352.429.2997

7965 SR 50 A500 352.557.5007

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS

JB Boondocks Bar & Grill

704 S Lakeshore Blvd. 352.324.3600

La Hacienda Restaurant at Mission Resort + Club 10400 CR 48 352.324.3910

Nicker’s Clubhouse Restaurant at Mission Resort + Club 10400 CR 48 352.324.2718

LADY LAKE

Bamboo Bistro 700 US Hwy. 441 352.750.9998

El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant 1 Lagrande Blvd. 352.750.3335

Harbor Hills Country Club

6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000

Latin Flavors Bar & Grill

13769 US Hwy. 441 352.561.4002

Marco’s Pizza 13721 US Hwy. 441 352.775.1500

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 860 US Hwy. 441 352.751.5640

Takis Greek & Italian Restaurant 13761 N US Hwy. 441 352.430.3630 LEESBURG

Brooklyn’s Pizzeria 27405 US Hwy. 27 352.728.2020

Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 US Hwy. 441, Ste. 101 352.253.2442

Donut King 708 S 14th St. 352.805.4888

Firehouse Subs 709 N 14th St. 352.323.3473

HP Grill

1403 S 14th St. 352.314.0006

Ichiban Chinese & Japanese Buffet 10301 US Hwy. 441 352.728.6669

Kawachi Sushi & Bar

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 27745 US Hwy. 27 352.435.4633

Prime 3 on Main 610 W Main St. 352.314.0015

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 US Hwy. 27 352.319.8093

Ski Beach Bar & Grill 21 Dozier Cir. 352.973.0793

The Brick & Barrel Public House 209 W Main St. 352.431.3069

The Coffee Snob

1101 W North Blvd., Ste. 1 352.460.4570

The Social Cellar 605 W Magnolia St. 352.638.6113

Wolfy’s

918 N 14th St. 352.787.6777 M OUNT ORA

10601 US Hwy. 441, Ste. C12 352.431.3449

MOUNT DORA

La Palma Mexican Grill

Barnwood Country Kitchen & Smokehouse

1690 Citrus Blvd. 352.323.1444

Luna Azul Authentic Mexican 1341 S 14th St. 352.805.4174

Marmadukes Brewery & Eatery 215 W Main St. 352.460.0421

McCracken’s Irish Pub 719 W Main St. 352.460.0659

Mystic Ice Cream 314 W Main St. 352.812.1366

3725 W Old US Hwy. 441 352.630.4903

Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill 421 N Baker St. 352.385.3540

Magical Meat Boutique 3725 W Old US Hwy. 441 352.630.4903

Mount Dora Pizza & Subs

2718 W Old US Hwy. 441 352.383.5303

Pisces Rising 239 W 4th Ave. 352.385.2669

D G O OU B G R O N T H 'S

M T H IS O R 'S E D IT P IC K

Fresh food and a front-row seat to lake life are the main attractions at Hurricane Dockside Grill.

For 15 years, Hurricane Dockside Grill has served seafood, burgers, tacos, sandwiches and seasonal specials from its location along the Dead River in Tavares. Guests of all ages arrive by car or dock at one of 26 boat slips before settling into the dining room or covered tiki hut for waterfront views, friendly service and live entertainment on weekends. Keep an eye on the shoreline and you might spot one of the resident alligators, affectionately nicknamed “Puppy” by the staff. Private banquet space makes the restaurant a popular choice for celebrations, while fresh, never-frozen burgers, signature wings and rotating seafood features keep first-time visitors and longtime regulars coming back. Hurricane Dockside Grill / 3351 W Burleigh Blvd., Tavares / 352.508.5137 / hurricanedockside.com

Subway

Cousin’s Kolaches

OXFORD

BTW (Burgers, Tacos & Waffles)

18870 US Hwy. 441 352.735.4376

Candelaria Eatery & Café

4059 Thomas St., Unit A01 352.399.2329

Pho Saigon

11717 US Hwy. 301 352.492.9423 TA SUMMERFIELD

Francesco’s Ristorante Stone Fire Pizza 16770 US Hwy. 441, Ste. 608 352.693.2008 TAVARES

Bella Nonna Pizzeria & More 280 Silverado St. 352.508.9370

359 E Burleigh Blvd. 352.742.7432 115 E Main St. 352.508.9287

Fish Camp on Lake Eustis

901 Lake Shore Blvd. 352.742.4400

Hurricane Dockside Grill

3351 W Burleigh Blvd. 352.508.5137 T HE V I LLAGE S

Cody’s Roadhouse Brownwood 3731 Meggison Rd. 352.430.2996

Cody’s Original Roadhouse

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream

Sakura Japanese Restaurant

Lopez Legacy Golf & Country Club

Subway

1041 Lake Shore Dr. 352.259.8500

1001 Lake Shore Dr. 352.751.0261 17145 Buena Vista Blvd. 352.753.1450

NYPD Pizzeria

4046 Wedgewood Ln. 352.750.1994

Peachwave

249 Colony Blvd. 352.750.2238

Peterbrooke Chocolatier 1087 Canal St. 352.415.8700

2468 Burnsed Blvd. 352.626.1059 265 Colony Blvd. 352.205.7393

1580 Bella Cruz Dr. 352.750.9600

Subway

8796 SE 165th Mulberry Ln. 352.750.9991

TooJay’s Deli 1129 Canal St. 352.430.0410

TooJay’s Deli

2835 Brownwood Blvd. 352.350.2122

UMATILLA

Sunsational Farms 40541 Roger Giles Rd. 352.771.2013

The Mason Jar

37534 SR 19 352.605.8151

WILDWOOD

Marco’s Pizza

5806 Seven Mile Dr., Ste. 101 352.571.2400

Oakwood Express 1210 N Main St. 352.461.0528

The Humble Native 819 S Main St. 352.571.8632

VKI Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 1004 Old Mill Run 352.259.9887

O C T ' 2 6 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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DINING GUIDE

Guru Indian Restaurant CLERMONT HILLSIDE TERRACE, 2400 S. U.S. 27, SUITE 101, CLERMONT 352.241.9884 | GURURESTAURANTCLERMONT.COM Celebrating 11 years, Guru Indian Restaurant offers you top quality family-style Indian dining. Chef Uday Kadam and his team are always ready to help you celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, staff meetings, and special occasions making each experience savory and wonderful. Celebrate your birthday at Guru with a FREE Dine-In Entrée, with ID Proof. Guru offers over 50 delicious entrees with generous portions of the finest prime quality beef, lamb, chicken, seafood, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. Their dishes are custom prepared and cooked to match your desired taste from mild or medium to hot and spicy. They offer mouth-watering appetizers, richly flavored Naan breads, tasty desserts, and refreshing drinks. Guru Indian Restaurant has proudly been awarded dozens of fine dining awards from the Clermont, South Lake, and Central Florida media for being ‘The Best Indian Restaurant in Central Florida’ and for ‘The Best Entrees.’ Guru has been named one of the ‘Top Restaurants in Central Florida’ by nationally respected Trip Advisor since 2018. Guru offers great catering for staff meetings and parties. Try their take-out options or deliveries with Door Dash, Uber Eats, and EZ Cater.

La Palma Mexican Grill 1690 CITRUS BLVD., LEESBURG | 352.323.1444 LAPALMAGRILL.COM La Palma Mexican Grill in Leesburg serves up bold Mexican flavors, big portions and a festive vibe that feels like Cinco de Mayo all year. Owner Ildefonso Hernandez’s menu covers everything from crispy mojarra and hearty siete mares soup to enchiladas, fajitas and arroz con pollo. The 15-inch burrito Tejano and the sizzling Molcajete loaded with steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo and veggies are must-tries. Weekly specials include $5 margaritas on Mondays and Taco Tuesdays with $1.99 tacos and 3-for-1 margaritas. The bar stays lively with beer, wine, spirits and colorful margaritas served in Patron bottles, Ildefonso’s own twist. La Palma also excels at catering, trusted by companies like Walmart and Premier Pools, and offers a private party room for up to 50 guests. Open seven days a week, it is the spot for authentic dishes, fun drinks and a lively atmosphere that turns any meal into a celebration.

Rodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 U.S HIGHWAY 27, LEESBURG | 352.319.8093 | RODELLOS.COM Chef Amadeo Avila invites you to enjoy authentic and fresh Italian cuisine in a friendly, comfortable dining environment at Rodello’s Italian Restaurant. The recipes used for his dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Italy—the restaurant is named for a city in the old country—with new culinary inspirations that Chef Amadeo has learned during many years in the restaurant business. Flavorful, homemade Italian entrees such as Pistachio Crusted Lamb, Salmon Saltimbocca, Lobster Ravioli, Shrimp Risotto, and many others are classics and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. The lunch menu features personal pizzas, calzones, subs, and pasta. Sit in the spacious dining room or enjoy drinks or desserts like delicious gelato in the cozy lounge, which features a full bar, wine menu, and an array of specialty cocktails. Always look for new features on Chef Amadeo’s menu, available on the restaurant’s website, Rodellos.com.

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Open 7 Days A Week From 11:00am-10:30pm AVAILABLE NOW!: Lone Lion – New autobiography book by Uday Kadam GET IT ON Amazon.com

Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm $5 Margarita Mondays Taco Tuesdays $1.99 + tax & 3-for-1 Margaritas

Catering available year-round.

Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

Join Us! Lake Minneola High School

October 17, 2026 Elementary & Middle School Robotics teams across Lake County come together for a friendly robotics scrimmage. This hands-on experience gives students the opportunity to see their work in action. Join us and learn how you can be involved!

Clermont Performing Arts Center

January 28, 2027

Your invited to join us & support this meaningful recognition program! Each year, the Education Foundation celebrates the exceptional educators and school staff who continually give their best and apply their unique talents to ensure every student receives a high-quality education. Nominated teachers and staff go through an application and interview process to earn the coveted recognition. The selected teachers and staff are celebrated at the annual Celebration InspirED by Excellence.

(352) 326-1265 EDFOUNDATIONLAKE.COM

Visit our website to learn more about upcoming events, sign up to participate, volunteer your time, or support our mission through a donation.

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Serving Citrus, Marion, and Sumter Counties

THE USB 2027 CALENDARS ARE HERE! Grab your copy at any of our 12 local branches. Congratulations to our featured Student Artists!

USB NMLS# 419535

352.669.2121 | unitedsouthernbank.com O C T ' 2 6 • L A K E A N D S U M T E R S T Y L E .C O M

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BEHIND THE BAR

SPIRITS

INFUSED WITH CREATIVITY Whiskey Kitchen’s Kimberly Corso turns bourbon into liquid gold. STORY: GINA HORAN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

ne of the coolest aspects of bartending is that, with the right owner and the freedom to create, the possibilities of cocktail design are endless. That’s exactly what I found when I sat down with bar manager Kimberly Corso at Whiskey Kitchen in Mount Dora. “Ms. Edna is so supportive and gives me the freedom to create what I want and what our guests ask for,” Kimberly says of Whiskey Kitchen’s owner Edna Gonzalez. “We had a movie night here once, and it inspired me to make a popcornflavored cocktail.” The drink was a hit, leading her to create flavors like peach cobbler, maple bacon, chocolate cherry and the rosemary, rye and rhubarb, which she named “Triple R.” Edna, with husband/co-owner Louie Gonzalez, have put together

an extensive whiskey selection and craft cocktail program, so Kimberly is encouraged to experiment. That kind of trust is an extension of the creative energy the couple displayed when they recently expanded the restaurant’s outdoor space and entertainment offerings. “I had a guest challenge me,” Kimberly says. “He said banana. That’s how the banana bread Old-Fashioned was created.” For Kimberly, inspiration can come from almost anywhere. “The sky is the limit once you start experimenting with flavors,” she says. “I can take just the well bourbon and look around for ingredients like honey, herbs, fruits or even chocolate.” She walked me through her process as she combined bourbon with fresh ingredients in large glass containers so the flavors could infuse for about three days before being used in cocktails. “I make batches and batches now,” Kimberly says, adding that this is the most fun she’s had in 20-plus years of bartending.

I’m not sure what Kimberly will infuse next, but I’m betting it won’t be her last twist on an Old-Fashioned. “People come in just for the flavors,” she says. “Infusions are kind of my thing,” Whiskey Kitchen also hosts daily happy hour, music video bingo on Mondays, trivia on Tuesdays, whiskey tastings and live music on select nights.

Kimberly’s Kettle Corn Old-Fashioned 2 oz

kettle corn-infused bourbon

/ oz

butterscotch schnapps

1 dash rhubarb bitters Stir ingredients in an old-fashioned rocks glass. Add a “king-cube” (large ice cube) and garnish with popcorn. Serve.

Have a favorite mixologist? Email me at gina@akersmediagroup.com and tell me which bartender stirs your drinks.

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GINA HORAN

October 17th-18th Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 11am - 5pm

Featuring Arts & Crafts Live Music, Food and Wine

$5 Admission

Children 12 and under - free

Wine Shop Specials Festival T-Shirts Bring your friends & family to welcome fall at the winery! For More Information Visit www.LakeridgeWinery.com

19239 US 27 North • Clermont, FL 34715 • 352-394-8627 • 1-800-768-WINE

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