Style Magazine, Village Edition, September 2026

SEP’26

WHAT DO THE EXPERTS SAY?

WELL

FOR LIF

Leading answers and trusted insights from local medical professionals to help you better understand your health.

R EVEA

LI N G T

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IT S AN D CH O I CES T H AT CAN H E LP YO U T H R IV E TH R O U G H EVE RY D ECAD E OF L I FE .

P G . 32

S P EC IAL P R O M OTI O N FEATU R E

PG. 49

freedom YOUR

CHAPTER

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SEP’26 V.22

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CONTENTS 1 of 2

FEATURES

049 In the Know Local experts answer common questions and share helpful insight from the fields they know best.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

070 Healing Space From forensic exams to sexual wellness counseling, Georgia Skyers helps women reclaim safety, confidence and connection.

STORY: GINA HORAN

096 Shared Ambition Twin brothers Noah and Landon Mauriell turn sibling rivalry into success in athletics, academics and leadership.

STORY: CINDY PETERSON

032

Health Check From prevention to everyday wellness, discover simple ways to understand your body and protect your health at every stage of life.

STORY: AKERS EDITORIAL

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SEP’26 V.22

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CONTENTS 2 of 2

DEPARTMENTS

first

022

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THE HIT LIST 020 PERSON OF INTEREST 022 OUTSTANDING STUDENT 024

agenda

020

079

080

024 084

TO-DO LIST 080 LOCAL TALENT 084 ATTRACTIONS 086

sports hub

FEMALE ATHLETE 092 MALE ATHLETE 094 SPORTS FEATURE 096

menu

092

104

099

IN THE KITCHEN 100 FORK ON THE ROAD 104 DINING GUIDE 106 BEHIND THE BAR 110

096

094

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100

110 SEP ’26

SEP’26

L AKE & SUMTER

columns FROM THE PUBLISHER 014 FINAL THOUGHT 114

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BODY WISE

E ON TH R C OV E

Listen now.

Live healthier longer.

IT ISN'T JUST ABOUT ADDING YEARS TO YOUR LIFE, IT'S ABOUT ADDING LIFE TO YOUR YEARS.

Seen& Heard

Creating space for women to heal.

PG. 70

Art of Enso

One brushstroke, infinite expression.

PG. 84

PG. 32

114

WELL

FOR LIFE

Leading answers and trusted insights from local medical professionals to help you better understand your health.

R EVEALI N G TH E HAB ITS AN D C H O I C ES THAT CAN H ELP YO U TH R IVE TH R O U G H EVERY D ECAD E O F LI FE .

S P EC IAL P R O M OTI O N FEATU R E

PG. 32

PG. 49

freedom YOUR

CHAPTER

Good

Question Straight answers from local experts.

WHAT DO THE EXPERTS SAY?

PG. 49

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Imagine retirement with fewer responsibilities and more time for friends, great food, activities and the things you love. Welcome to a new way of independent living with Sumter Senior Living.

PG. 44

Lake & Sumter Style

Village Edition

Design: Michael Gaulin On the Cover: Longevity

Design: Shawnee Coppola Photo: Nicole Hamel On the Cover: Sumter Senior Living

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Lasting Vitality Longevity isn't about living longer; it's about living better.

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

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

health deserves to be a priority, not something we squeeze in after we've taken care of everyone else.

That's exactly why we created this issue—to introduce you to physicians, wellness experts and health care professionals who are passionate about helping people live healthier, fuller lives. You'll discover new ideas, practical advice and inspiring stories that I hope encourage you to take one small step toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.

My own journey is still unfolding.

I'm still learning, still asking questions and still working every day to become stronger than I was yesterday. Maybe that's what longevity is really about, not chasing perfection, but embracing progress.

Thank you for allowing Style Magazine to be part of your journey. Here's to feeling better, living healthier and making every year ahead our very best.

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 Danny Mussman Aubrey Akers Simmons ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE danny@akersmediagroup.com

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

To your health,

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.

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

EXECUTIVE EDITOR cindy@akersmediagroup.com

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

f someone had asked me a year ago what longevity meant, I probably would have said, "Living to 100."

Today, my answer is completely different.

This past year has been one of the most challenging of my life. Like so many women, I found myself navigating hormonal changes, unexpected health issues, weight loss, exhaustion and moments when I simply didn't feel like myself anymore. There were days I questioned what was happening to my body and wondered if I'd ever feel "normal" again.

I've learned that longevity isn't measured by the number of birthdays we celebrate; it's measured by the quality of the life we live.

It's waking up with energy. It's taking care of our minds as much as our bodies. It's making time for the people we love, choosing foods that fuel us, moving a little more and giving ourselves grace when life doesn't go according to plan.

Most importantly, it's realizing that our

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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FIRST

P EO PLE C O MM EN TA RY NEWS

24

OUTSTANDING STUDENT From barrel races to newspaper bylines, Tavares sophomore Sloane Stephens is blazing her own trail.

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

/ 019

THE HIT LIST

THE LONG GAME: They may call him Mayor, but plenty of Wildwood folks still know Ed Wolf simply as “Coach,” a nickname that stuck long after his successful years leading Wildwood Middle School football. The longtime educator and one of Florida’s longest-serving mayors recently celebrated 50 years of public service by earning the Florida League of Cities’ John Land Years of Service Award.

RAISE A GLASS: September is packed with reasons for beer lovers to celebrate, from National Beer Lover’s Day on Sept. 7 and National Drink Beer Day on Sept. 28 to the kickoff of Oktoberfest season. Make the most of the month with a visit to South Lake’s newest brewery, Crooked Can Brewing Company in Minneola.

The sprawling destination that opened in July features a taproom, food hall, outdoor entertainment stage and splash pad, all which make it an ideal spot to sample a cold craft brew, gather with friends and family to toast the arrival of fall.

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SOLE PURPOSE: An ancient healing tradition has found a home in Lady Lake. Relaxing Feet specializes in reflexology, a practice dating back thousands of years that focuses on applying pressure to specific points on the feet. Finally, a place just for tootsies!

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CONE SWEET CONE: The giant cone has landed in The Villages.

Twistee Treat’s iconic 25-foot-tall landmark is now adding a sweet slice of roadside nostalgia to the community with soft-serve cones, sundaes, shakes and banana splits in Pinellas Plaza.

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FINAL BELL: The 2026-27 school year marks Superintendent Diane Kornegay’s last before retirement. During her decade leading Lake County Schools, the district earned consecutive A ratings for the first time, expanded career and technical education programs and achieved a record-high graduation rate. Kornegay, Florida’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year, leaves behind a legacy of leadership, innovation and dedication to students. Congratulations on an outstanding career and a well-earned retirement.

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

TINY BUBBLES: Fairy tales meet self-care at Bibbidi Bubbly Soaps, where Clermont-based owner Ellie Zury Zambrana handcrafts small-batch soaps, sugar scrubs, lotion bars and lip balms inspired by books, fantasy and a nearby theme park. Find her colorful creations at the Downtown Clermont Farmers Market, other local shops or purchase online at bibbidibubblysoaps.com.

LUCKY SEVEN: This month, Roberto’s beloved Italian restaurant celebrates its seventh anniversary of bringing people together for handcrafted pizzas, classic pasta dishes, warm hospitality and a large selection of spirits. Stop by and help commemorate a milestone that has made Roberto’s a favorite.

COMMUNITY CARE: The Lake County Board of County Commissioners recently recognized Lifepointe Church for its commitment to helping local residents during cold-weather events.

Through its partnership in operating cold-weather shelters, the church provides a safe, warm place for those in need when temperatures drop. Congratulations to Lifepointe Church for making a difference in the community when it matters most.

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AGED TO PERFECTION: Nearly 20 years after opening in downtown Leesburg, Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe has new owners with the same neighborhood spirit as the ones that came before them. Locals Ryan McCabe and Layna Sasser are preserving the beloved gathering place while adding their own touches, proving that some traditions are worth uncorking for another generation.

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LOST LAKE COUNTY: History buffs looking for a hidden piece of Old Florida should add Ethel to their must-see list. The tiny community established in the 1860s featured a schoolhouse, general store, post office and railroad stop along the Sanford and Lake Eustis Railway. A devastating freeze in 1895 and changing times eventually led residents to leave, and today only traces remain, including the historic Ethel Cemetery. Thanks to the efforts of local historians, including author/Tavares Vice Mayor Bob Grenier and supporters of the Ethel restoration project, work is underway to preserve and recreate parts of the lost community for future generations. Learn more, schedule a tour or support the restoration effort at wwt-cso.com.

S E P ' 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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PERSON OF INTEREST

PEO PLE

SERGEANT

ALEX NELL Commitment to service has shaped every chapter of the Leesburg officer’s life.

My start as an officer: I enlisted

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

my scheduled 12-hour shift, I was heading home on CR 48 in Yalaha.

After seeing smoke, I saw what looked like flames coming from the roof of a residence. Working together, the homeowner and I secured her two dogs. Thankfully the fire department was then able to extinguish the fire.

in the United States Marine Corps infantry in 2008. I used what was left of my GI Bill to put myself through the academy while working on weekends. The Leesburg Police Department was among the first agencies I applied to and the first one to offer me a job while I was still in the academy.

• Age 37 VITAL STATS

STORY: ROXANNA BATRIZ

• Originally from Punta Gorda • U.S. Marine Corps Combat Veteran • 9 years at Leesburg Police Department • Member of Mid-Florida SWAT team

A person I look up to: My dad.

He’s always been my biggest fan and has always been there as a parent, coach and counselor. He also saved my life when I was about 10. He’s the embodiment of a true hero.

Certifications: Firearms Instructor, Defensive Tactics Instructor, General Instructor, Tactical Team Leader Development, LockUp-L.E.A.D.S., FBI-LEEDA (SLI), Advanced F.T.O., Line Supervision, ALICE, Field Training Officer and Combat Pistol.

GR U P, I O W I N G O F BD R E A M T E PRO FE ING A BAS SS I O N A E BA L L PLA YER L .

When off duty, you’ll find me: With my wife,

Saving a life: After stopping at a gas station in Leesburg early one morning on shift, I noticed a vehicle parked near me that had begun to roll backwards. An elderly female yelling for help fell. Luckily, I was able to quickly sprint behind the vehicle, throw my body weight into the back of it and stop the vehicle.

Megan and our two sons. Whether doing something adventurous together, going to a theme park, reading or running between different practices or games from the sports my sons are in, there’s always something going on.

Any other downtime, I am usually working out or training.

Saving a life again: I’d unknowingly be put into another incident of right place, right time.

A few weeks ago, after working

Know a person of interest? Tell us!

Email your recommendation to roxanne@akersmediagroup.com.

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

ROXANNA BATRIZ

OUTSTANDING STUDENT

Barrel racing start: I’ve been around horses my whole PEO PLE

life, but I didn’t start riding consistently until fourth grade.

Sloane Stephens Horses, headlines and honor rolls keep this sophomore on the move.

STORY: ROXANNA BATRIZ

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

Proudest accomplishments: Qualifying for the State Finals five times and the World Championships four times all represent countless hours of hard work, dedication and sacrifice. None of it would’ve been possible without the support of my parents, Katelyn and Neil Stephens, and my coach Melissa Green of Racewood Acres Equine. They have believed in me every step of the way.

My journalist persona: I’m a freelance writer for my school newspaper. Because I’m taking AP and advanced classes to complete as many graduation requirements as possible, I couldn’t fit journalism into my schedule.

I look up to: Kristin Hanchey. She’s incredibly humble, whether she wins or loses and she’s one of the smoothest riders I’ve ever watched. I met her during my first NBHA State Finals in 2022 when I fell off my horse during my run.

Kristin came over and told me even the best barrel racers fall off and that you’re not a real cowgirl until you do.

In my free time, you’ll find me: With my horses, spending time with family or at the baseball fields cheering on my brothers.

Best advice for my younger self: Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Everyone’s journey is different. I’ve learned that your character is far more important than how good you are.

Surprising fact: I was adopted by my mom Katelyn from the age of 3 and she’s treated me like her own child from day one. I also have siblings from my biological mom’s side and have relationships with them to this day. My brother (Slayde), sister (Sawyer), brother (Bo) and brother (Tommy) were all adopted by different families. Having family on both sides has been a very important part of my life.

VITAL STATS

• Age 15 • Sophomore, Tavares High School • GPA 4.6 • Newspaper writer • Loves science, physiology & anatomy • Barrel racer with Racewood Acres Equine team

Know an outstanding student?

Fill us in! Email your recommendations to roxanne@akersmediagroup.com.

ROXANNA BATRIZ

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THE

B L U E P R I N T LE ADING E XPERT S SHARE S TR ATEGIES

that can help you maximize your health, happiness and quality of life. ongevity isn't just about adding years to your life, it's about adding life to your years. The choices we make in our 20s, 40s and beyond all shape the future version of ourselves. In this special feature, we asked experts in medicine, mental health, nutrition, fitness and wellness to share what

matters most during every stage of adulthood. From preventing disease and building healthy habits to managing stress, maintaining strong relationships and staying physically active, this comprehensive guide explores what it takes to live longer, healthier and better—one decade at a time.

STORIES: AKERS EDITORIAL PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON, NICOLE HAMEL AND PROVIDED

20-39 Habits you build can shape how long and how well you live.

STORY: CINDY PETERSON

BUILD A LIFE THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO ESCAPE.” KORTNIE LYNCH Owner of Next Right Thing Behavioral Health

Most people in their 20s and 30s aren’t thinking about longevity. They’re focused on building careers, paying bills, raising families or simply figuring out who they want to become.

But according to local experts, those foundational years are when lifelong habits take root. The choices you make in your 20s and 30s, from how you care for your body to how you manage stress, can have lasting effects on your physical, emotional and mental well-being for decades to come.

PRE VEN TION OVER T RE AT MEN T Longevity isn’t about waiting until something goes wrong; it’s about building healthy habits before you need them.

While many routine screenings aren’t recommended before age 40, Dr. Maen Hussein, director of Value-Based Care for Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, says younger adults shouldn’t assume they’re too young to think about prevention.

Knowing your family’s medical history could warrant screenings years earlier than usually recommended.

“If there is a significant family history of cancer or other diseases, then they need to have some form

of screening on a regular basis,” Hussein says.

Living under Florida’s sun brings another consideration: skin cancer can appear at any age. Hussein encourages younger adults to regularly examine their skin and act promptly if any moles change appearance.

“It’s a good habit to have,” he says.

“Pay attention. If you feel like a mole is changing in color or consistency or shape, make sure you seek medical advice.”

But prevention extends beyond visits to your doctor. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol all play a role in reducing long-term health risks.

“Exercise actually can prevent cancer,” Hussein says. “There are lots of factors to being healthy and avoiding disease.”

He also emphasizes moderation.

Rather than chasing the latest diet or relying on supplements alone, focus on eating nutritious foods and maintaining a healthy weight.

That doesn’t mean just avoiding obesity, but avoiding becoming underweight as well.

When it comes to vitamins, Hussein says food should come first.

Supplements have not been shown

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NO TIME? NO EXCUSES Simple ways to fit movement into your day—even when life is busy.

PARK FARTHER AWAY.

Skip the closest parking spot and add a few extra minutes of walking.

TAKE THE STAIRS.

Even one or two flights a few times a day can strengthen your heart and legs.

EMBRACE THE 10-MINUTE RULE.

Three 10-minute walks throughout the day provide many of the same benefits as one 30-minute walk.

SET A MOVEMENT ALARM.

Stand up, stretch or walk for two to five minutes every hour if you spend your day at a desk.

TURN COMMERCIALS INTO WORKOUTS.

Watching TV? Do squats, lunges, planks or push-ups during commercial breaks.

MAKE FAMILY TIME ACTIVE.

Go for an evening walk, play tag with the kids, shoot hoops or take the dog to the park.

GET OUTSIDE.

Fresh air, sunshine and a short walk can improve both your physical and mental health.

STACK HEALTHY HABITS.

Do calf raises while brushing your teeth or stretch while waiting for your coffee to brew.

to improve survival, unless you’re deficient in a particular nutrient.

Fruits, vegetables and whole foods allow the body to absorb nutrients naturally, making them a better long-term investment than a cabinet full of pills.

“Your body is your temple,” Hussein says. “As much as possible, try to preserve it in a clean way.”

T R ADE BURNOU T FOR BAL ANCE Success often means long workdays, financial pressures and growing responsibilities, but constantly running at full speed comes with a cost.

Kortnie Lynch, owner of Next Right Thing Behavioral Health and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, says chronic stress is one of the biggest threats to long-term health.

“If you are baseline high in your cortisol levels, then that does a number on your body and you might not necessarily even feel it,” she says.

The effects of chronic stress don’t always show up immediately.

Over time, however, elevated KORTNIE LYNCH

stress hormones may contribute to cardiovascular disease and other health problems later in life.

Kortnie says people should prioritize their health instead of staying busy and wearing exhaustion like a badge of honor.

“Make self-care a priority so that you can extend your life,” she says.

Kortnie says that balance—not perfection—should be your goal.

Healthy routines become unhealthy when they become the only way to cope and are taken to the extreme.

Many addictions begin the same way. Rather than addressing the source of stress, people often turn to alcohol, drugs, gambling, excessive social media use or other habits to temporarily escape how they feel.

“You should build a life that you don’t want to escape,” Kortnie says.

K NOW YOUR SELF For National Certified Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Alisha Casamona, founder of Red Bird Cottage and Farm, one of the greatest challenges facing today’s young adults isn’t physical; it’s about learning who they are.

“You have to develop identity outside of social media,” Alisha says.

She says the transition from the teenage years into adulthood can be confusing. People in their 20s are often balancing college, careers and relationships while trying to define

themselves in a world that constantly tells them who they should be.

Social media only adds to that pressure.

“It normalizes a luxurious lifestyle and makes people think less of themselves if they aren’t that,” she says.

Alisha encourages young adults to spend time discovering what truly grounds them instead of comparing their life to someone else’s highlight reel. For Alisha, who regularly incorporates equine therapy at her practice, that’s always been her horses. For others, it may be the outdoors, creating art, volunteering or simply sitting quietly by one of the area’s lakes.

Kortnie agrees.

“Go enjoy your life and be out there doing life rather than watching life,” she says. “Get your feet in the grass.”

Even replacing 30 minutes of doom scrolling with time outside can have a significant impact on mood, focus and overall well-being.

PROT EC T YOUR PE ACE As life becomes more demanding, learning to establish healthy boundaries may be one of the most important skills you develop.

“Self-care isn’t an indulgence,” Alisha says. “It’s a necessity.”

She compares boundaries to a fence.

“It has a gate,” she says. “You get to decide when you open it for something or someone.”

Learning to say “no” doesn’t happen overnight. It’s often a skill that develops

throughout your 20s and 30s as priorities begin to shift.

Alisha also encourages people to take inventory of their closest relationships. She often asks clients to make two lists: five people they know they can always call, and the people they would call if it was their last day on Earth. The exercise, she says, helps reveal which relationships deserve the greatest investment and often becomes the foundation for long-term emotional stability.

Ultimately, longevity isn’t built through one perfect diet, one supplement or one workout routine. It’s built one decision at a time. Prioritize your health, manage your stress, build meaningful relationships and find purpose outside a screen.

The foundation you build today will determine how well you live tomorrow.

TESTIMONIAL

Fred Griffin Jr. AN UNEXPECTED DETOUR. Thirty-one-year-old Fred Griffin Jr. was doing everything he thought he was supposed to do.

He was healthy, raising a family, building his business and at the height of his career.

Then his back started hurting.

“I was trying to figure out why,” Fred says.

Weeks later, he learned he had stage 4 stomach cancer that had already spread to his brain.

“I had no symptoms,” he says.

“Nothing.”

The diagnosis left him searching for answers.

“My initial questions were how and why,” he says. “I’ve always taken care of myself.

I just couldn’t wrap my mind around what was going on.”

Fred endured intensive chemotherapy over the next year and a half, watched his weight fall from nearly 200 pounds to just 97, and fought

his way through treatment. He says he’ll celebrate eight years in remission this October by the grace of God and IV therapy with Amanda Gaskin.

Today, he continues to follow his doctors’ advice, exercises, eats better and keeps up with regular checkups. But medicine wasn’t the only thing that helped him through.

“Having the right support system around you played a critical part,” he says. “And just being positive. I found things that made me happy.”

For Fred, that meant getting back to work when he could and spending time near the water between treatments.

Longevity isn’t always about preventing the unexpected.

Sometimes it’s about choosing to keep moving forward after life changes in an instant.

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Midlife is less about aging and more about preparing for what’s next.

STORY: ROXANNA BATRIZ

40-59 women may face new challenges due to hormonal shifts.

It’s easy to blame everything on age, but healthcare providers say there is often more to the story.

DON ’ T IGNORE SIGNAL S

The years between 40 and 59 often bring changes that can be difficult to ignore.

You may not bounce back as quickly as you once did. Energy levels may dip, it becomes harder to lose weight, and sleep isn’t as restful.

Men may notice changes in stamina, recovery and sexual health, while

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For women, perimenopause can begin years before menopause itself, bringing symptoms that extend far beyond changes in menstrual cycles.

“You start having the hot flashes, memory fog, the decrease in libido because your body is still producing the hormones,” says Amy Ester, APRN, owner of Anchored in Health in Oxford.

As women transition into menopause, declining hormone levels can affect multiple body systems.

“We see higher cases of stroke, heart disease and bone issues because those hormones not being present anymore affect all of those different body systems,” Amy says.

Men and women alike may also start experiencing fatigue, sleep issues, digestive concerns, chronic pain, weight gain and changes in sexual health, often signs that it’s time to take a closer look at what’s happening inside the body.

LOOK BE YOND SY MP TOMS Dr. Kassie Sorokach of Divine Acupuncture & Wellness and Amy, approach healthcare from different perspectives, but they share a similar philosophy: lasting health improvements begin by identifying the underlying cause.

“You have to dig into the root cause of what’s causing it and then try to see if there’s a way to fix it,” Amy says.

For some women, vaginal dryness or painful intimacy may be related to hormonal changes. Estrogen can be used to treat that dryness.

Urinary incontinence may stem from weakened pelvic floor muscles, particularly after childbirth. Amy says pelvic floor therapy can often help strengthen those muscles and improve symptoms.

For men, erectile dysfunction may be linked to diabetes, circulation problems, other underlying conditions or medications.

Sorokach sees similar patterns in her practice.

“For people who are dealing with a lot of anxiety or not sleeping well, it may not even necessarily be a hormone issue,” she says.

THE GOAL IS TO WORK TOGETHER TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH, PREVENT DISEASE PROGRESSION AND TREAT WHATEVER WE CAN.” AMY ESTER, APRN Owner of Anchored in Health

Both providers encourage patients to consider how stress, nutrition, sleep and lifestyle habits may be contributing to symptoms people assume are simply part of aging.

“Just trying to change little things here and there makes such a huge, huge difference,” Sorokach says.

AIM FOR PRE VEN TION Both providers agree that prevention is one of the most powerful tools available to adults in their 40s and 50s.

Routine screenings can help identify potential health concerns long before symptoms appear.

RECOMMENDED SCREENINGS FOR AGES 40-59 • Annual blood pressure checks • Fasting lipid panel every five years (or more often if high risk) • Diabetes screening every three years • Colon cancer screening beginning at age 45 • Annual mammograms beginning at age 40 for most women (earlier with a strong family history of breast cancer) • Cervical cancer screening through Pap smears and HPV testing • Prostate cancer screening for men through PSA blood testing, typically between ages 45-50 • Thyroid screening, especially during perimenopause and menopause • Annual skin cancer checks • Bone density (DEXA) screening beginning around ages 50-55

Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, colon cancer and breast cancer screenings all play important roles in early detection.

“Screenings can help us catch things sooner so we can start treatments faster,” Amy says. “In order to maintain healthy bone density, a healthy weight and lower our risk for cardiovascular disease, you have to focus on your lifestyle.”

Sorokach believes people who embrace healthy habits earlier are better equipped to handle setbacks.

“If we don’t take very good care of ourselves, we’re not eating well, we’re not resting appropriately and we’re letting ourselves get burnt out, then the time of menopause is going to be a lot harsher on us,” she says, as one example.

MIDLIFE SQUEE ZE The 40-to-59 age range comes with unique pressures for many adults. Careers, children, aging parents and financial responsibilities often compete for time and attention.

“The caretaker, the one who’s taking care of their parents and taking care of their children,

“ACUPUNCTURE IS GREAT FOR EVERYTHING. IT HELPS TO BALANCE THE BODY IN SO MANY DIFFERENT SENSES. DR. KASSIE SOROKACH Owner of Divine Acupuncture & Wellness

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they don’t get a moment to rest,” Sorokach says.

She often sees patients experiencing fatigue, anxiety, insomnia and other quality-of-life concerns after spending years putting everyone else’s needs before their own.

Sorokach incorporates a variety of Chinese medicine techniques, including acupuncture and herbal medicine combinations, to help patients manage stress.

“Acupuncture is great for everything,” she says. “It helps to balance the body in so many different senses.”

She also encourages meditation, yoga, tai chi, journaling and grounding, which can be as simple as spending time outdoors with bare feet on grass or sand. Acupressure can help relieve stress, reduce pain and improve circulation by targeting specific energy channels (meridians) in the body.

“There is a point near the top of the ear called ‘Shen Men’ and it’s like the calming point,” she says.

START SMALL While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, Sorokach believes many people can benefit from simple daily habits.

“Warm water with ginger or lemon is a great way to start the morning,” she says. “Just order a cup of hot water with your meal and start with the hot water first or cut out the iced coffee. You will notice a huge difference.”

In traditional Chinese medicine, eating and drinking warm items is vital to protect your “digestive fire” and support the spleen and stomach.

She also encourages regular movement, adequate sleep and nourishing foods. Rather than focusing solely on calories, she emphasizes foods that support the body’s overall function and energy levels.

TESTIMONIAL

Gretta Ellis GE T TING TO T HE W H Y.

She also says that people dealing with allergies, respiratory concerns or stress may benefit from a Himalayan salt room, which she has incorporated into her practice.

“It’s kind of like going to the beach without the heat of the beach,” she says.

For patients experiencing chronic pain, low back pain or circulation issues, she recommends therapies such as acupuncture or StemWave therapy and lifestyle changes.

CONVER SATION MAT T ER S Perhaps the most important message for adults in this age group is not to suffer in silence.

“The person’s relationship with their provider is important,” Amy says.

Many conditions that people assume are part of aging can be improved through treatment, lifestyle changes or a combination of both.

Pay attention to your body, seek help when needed and talk openly about symptoms.

“As a provider, you shouldn’t have to pry this stuff out of your patients,” Amy says. “The goal is to work together to maintain your health, prevent disease progression and treat whatever we can.”

At 40, Gretta Ellis understands firsthand what it feels like to know something is wrong, but not have any answers.

Years earlier, while working as an emergency room nurse, she began experiencing severe fatigue, brain fog, headaches, joint pain, neck pain and digestive issues.

Specialist after specialist searched for answers, but the treatments only addressed her symptoms.

“I knew it wasn’t normal to be 25, 26, 27 and feel that bad,” she says.

Eventually, Gretta discovered the source: hidden mold inside her home from a slow leak no one knew existed. The exposure had contributed to her long list of health problems, including severe digestive issues and Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune thyroid condition. Once the mold was removed and she began treatment, her health gradually improved.

But the story didn’t end there.

Several years later, her husband, Cory, also became ill. He developed lung and heart problems and was eventually diagnosed with an autoimmune blood disorder linked to the same mold exposure.

Those experiences have shaped her career.

Now an APRN and owner of Ellis Integrative Medicine in Tavares, Gretta focuses on identifying the underlying cause of illness rather than simply masking symptoms.

“We always go down to the root cause,” she says. “Whether it’s mold, Lyme disease, environmental toxins or gut inflammation, everything starts with finding out why.”

Gretta says many people don’t always develop symptoms immediately, adding that some adults begin experiencing unexplained symptoms during midlife because years of stress, poor nutrition and environmental exposures finally catch up with them.

“That’s about the time your bucket starts overflowing,” she says. “Then you start having all these symptoms.”

60 Look around, the proof of vibrant life is everywhere.

Today’s active seniors are dancing in the town squares, stretching through water aerobics, playing pickleball, volunteering, laughing around mahjong tables and showing up for morning coffee with a circle of friends.

Some of it is genetic. Some of it is luck or socio-economic status.

But longevity really comes down to staying social, remaining positive, being in motion and refusing to shut down.

“Longevity isn’t just about adding years to life,” says Mica Gilles, campus executive director at Sumter Senior Living in The Villages. “It’s about adding life to those years.”

Mica says that the healthiest older adults she knows aren’t necessarily the ones with the fewest medical conditions. They’re the ones who continue to move, build relationships, find purpose and wake up each day with something to look forward to.

FIND A SENSE OF PURP OSE Purpose looks different for everyone.

For some, it’s volunteering. For others, it’s joining a fitness class, learning a new hobby or simply committing to a daily walk.

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Experts say movement, purpose and community are the keys to living well after 60.

STORY: GINA HORAN

The common thread isn’t perfection; it’s staying committed to tiny positive habits.

“Consistency over perfection is the goal,” says Hope Stickley, senior rehab director at Legacy Healthcare in The Villages. “The decisions you make today are an investment in your tomorrow and it’s much better to be proactive than reactive.”

Research supports what Hope sees every day. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults 65 and older should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, along with strength and balance exercises.

The National Institute on Aging reports that regular movement helps older adults maintain independence, lowers the risk of chronic disease, improves brain health and reduces the risk of falls. One study found adults averaging 8,000 steps a day had a 51 percent lower risk of death from all causes than those averaging 4,000.

Regular physical activity can slow brain aging by up to 10 years.

And studies show that exercise helps protect the brain and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and several forms of cancer.

LONGEVITY ISN’T JUST ABOUT ADDING YEARS TO LIFE. IT’S ABOUT ADDING LIFE TO THOSE YEARS.” MICA GILLES Campus Executive Director at Sumter Senior Living in The Villages

THE SCIENCE OF LONGEVITY STAY IN MOTION

The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, plus musclestrengthening and balance exercises to help maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls.

TAKE MORE STEPS

One study found that adults averaging 8,000 steps a day had a 51% lower risk of death from all causes compared to those averaging 4,000 steps.

FEED YOUR HEALTH

Diets rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds provide nutrients that support brain health, reduce inflammation and promote healthy aging.

BOOST YOUR BRAIN

The Harvard Aging Brain Study found that regular physical activity can slow brain aging by up to 10 years. Yale School of Medicine reports that exercise also helps protect the brain while lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and several cancers.

STAY CONNECTED

Research has consistently shown that older adults who maintain strong social connections are less likely to experience depression, cognitive decline and social isolation. Friendships, volunteering, clubs and shared activities all contribute to healthier aging.

PRACTICE GRATITUDE

Studies suggest regularly practicing gratitude can improve mood, reduce stress, promote better sleep and contribute to overall emotional wellbeing, all of which play an important role in healthy aging.

TESTIMONIAL

Tweet Coleman THERE’S NO SLOWING HER DOWN. Tweet opened Le’ahi Health Cafe in The Villages with a mission she’s spent more than five decades living.

Tweet, a former international pilot, registered nurse, brain health educator and author of “Nourish to Flourish: For Energy, Clarity, and Longevity,” believes healthy aging begins with everyday choices. For more than 56 years, she’s followed a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle free of meat, dairy and highly processed foods. She credits those choices with giving her the energy to continue working, teaching, exercising and playing tennis into her 80s.

“My mission isn’t simply to serve smoothies or healthy meals,” she says.

“It’s education and integrating this lifestyle into our daily routines.”

That philosophy is rooted in years of teaching brain enrichment classes, where she emphasizes that the brain and body work together. Vegetables and colorful fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds provide the nutrients the brain needs to function at its best, she says.

Her daily routines reflect that mindset.

Each morning begins with positive affirmations before she gets out of bed.

Each evening ends by writing down three things she’s grateful for, a habit she believes shifts perspective from what’s missing to what’s meaningful.

Healthy living isn’t about perfection for Tweet. It’s about making small, intentional choices every day that allow people not just to live longer, but to flourish.

“I’m motivated by the people I connect to this way of living, because it works,” she says. “I just love seeing success stories. It’s not for everyone, but it does change lives.”

From experience, she offers some heartfelt advice.

“For those just entering their later years and want to make any changes, I say just choose three tiny habits you want to change and do that,” Tweet says.

“Baby steps are ok and can lead to better health and life.”

E VERY MOVEMEN T MAT T ER S

T HE P OW ER OF COMMUNIT Y

“Each movement, no matter how small, has the power to improve strength, balance, confidence and quality of life,” says Hansi Morales, life enrichment director at Sumter Senior Living.

Hansi specializes in seated exercise, which proves that movement doesn’t have to involve running or lifting heavy weights to make a difference. Seated workouts improve muscle strength, flexibility, circulation, coordination and endurance while reducing the risk of falls.

Among the movements she teaches are seated marches to strengthen the legs and hips to improve flexibility and coordination throughout the body. She also uses arm-opening exercises that improve posture, strengthen the upper body and make breathing easier.

Overall, local experts Mica, Hope and Hansi agree that movement is only part of the equation.

People thriving after 60 aren’t waiting for permission to feel well; they’re making small decisions every day to keep moving, stay connected and keep showing up.

More than genetics or luck, that quiet commitment may be the real secret to longevity.

“Even small daily interactions and activities can improve mood and enrich life,” Hope says. “We sometimes underestimate the power of community.”

“Purpose, laughter, friendship and belonging are just as important as exercise in helping people age well.”

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I N D E P E N D E N T L I V I N G AT

Sumter Senior Living A L L- I N C L U S I V E E A S Y L I V I N G

etirement is not the final chapter. Consider it your “freedom chapter.” It’s a prime opportunity to meet people, make new friendships, and enjoy activities you didn’t have time to pursue when working and raising a family.

Think of all the things you love about taking a luxury vacation.

Comfortable, stylish surroundings.

Endless options for dining, activities, and entertainment.

Zero responsibilities for clean up or maintenance.

Independent Living at Sumter combines a country club lifestyle with the best aspects of taking luxury

vacation. You’ll find a wealth of amenities all included in one monthly fee. It’s totally up to you what to participate in, be as busy and sociable you choose to be.

MAKING IT EASY Many things become more difficult as we age, but that shouldn’t include where you live.

Instead of budgeting for property taxes and insurance and worrying about the next major home repair, isn’t it time to let that go?

Independent Living at Sumter provides the benefits of living in beautiful Central Florida with none

Worry-free living for one all-inclusive monthly fee includes: Apartment with full kitchen, washer and dryer Balcony or patio (except for studios) Weekly housekeeping and maintenance, including linen service Most utilities, including cable and wi-fi Full access to all campus amenities and residence services Heated salt-water pool and fitness center Health and fitness activities Chef-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner every day Full bar Resident Services Coordinator Golf cart accessible with charging stations Transportation to local destinations

of the concerns and costs of home ownership.

“You get all the privileges and amenities of being on The Villages® property without all the responsibility and maintenance that come with owning your own home,” says Mica Gilles, executive director of Sumter Senior Living.

Enjoy the convenience of an onsite beauty salon/barber shop. Massage services are also available There is ample parking, and residents have the option of paid carport space.

SIZED RIGHT Apartment choices fit all different budgets.

Independent living units range from studios to 2 bedroom/2 bath apartments, from 441 sq. ft. up to 1,150 sq ft. in size.

With a total of 298 apartments, independent living, assisted living and memory care options are all available in one location with a warm, family-like atmosphere.

SAVOR THE OUTDOORS Although it was a relief to sell your house and say goodbye to chores and responsibilities, you might wonder if you’ll miss having a yard with the chance to get your hands dirty and putter in the garden. Not to worry!

The Garden Club gives interested residents plenty of opportunities to garden through

the seasons. Plus, you can always add personality to your own unit with potted plants.

Most independent living apartment units (one bedroom and up) have their own outdoor space. Ground floor units have individual outdoor patios.

Apartments on higher floors each have their own balcony. Make that space distinctly your own with outdoor décor and your favorite plants thriving in pots right outside your door.

Residents can spend as much time enjoying the outdoors as they like. In addition to the pool area, there are walking paths and an enclosed courtyard.

PET-INCLUSIVE Independent Living at Sumter means you don’t have to give up a beloved pet. The campus is pet-inclusive, and many residents share their lives with furry and feathered friends.

“We love pets here and have plenty of residents with dogs, cats and birds,” says Mica.

There’s even a fenced-in dog park on site.

CHEF-PREPARED MEALS Once you move in, house cleaning and cooking are just memories.

You don’t have to worry about meals, housework or maintenance ever again.

Even though your apartment includes a kitchen, you’ll only

You get all the privileges and amenities of being on The Villages® property without all the responsibility and maintenance that come with owning your own home. — Mica Gilles

cook if you feel like it. In fact, most residents admit they rarely use their stove/oven. Why bother cooking when three daily healthy and delicious meals are included in the monthly fee?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day. Snacks are available in the bistro area.

Residents rave about the restaurant-quality meals prepared by real chefs. There are no cafeteriastyle meals or assigned seating here. Just like dining out at your favorite restaurant, you’ll choose from the menu and enjoy quality food and service. There’s always a daily special, and once a week, residents enjoy a themed dinner buffet.

Dining Services Director Deborah Rivera changes out the menu quarterly and ensures it always features healthy, fresh, and tasty choices.

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There’s a full bar with full liquor license, so you don’t even have to leave campus to socialize over meals or drinks.

STAY CONNECTED Staying active and engaged in your community supports your overall well-being and happiness. You can choose to be busy every day or just participate in a few favorite activities each week.

Whatever your style, the best thing is that you never have to go it alone.

“I think one of the best things about living in our community is the friendships that form,” says Mica.

“We have people ranging in age from 70s to over 100. With 330 total residents on campus and about half of those in independent living, you’re going to meet people you have things in common with.”

When you can’t live near family or don’t have any family, friends can become family and play a vital role in your life.

“We need people in our lives; that helps us stay young,” says Mica.

“Some people move in as couples, but we have a lot of singles. Also, when people come to our community as a couple and one passes away, they have created relationships that can support them moving forward.”

AGE WELL Where you live can actually impact how well you age.

Choosing independent living when you’re still active and independent means you can fully enjoy and benefit from the lifestyle rather than waiting for a crisis.

“I believe that people who move into independent living have healthier, longer lives because they are getting the help they need earlier and can focus on what’s important to them,” says Mica. “The right environment can make healthy choices, meaningful connection, and active living much easier to maintain.”

Residents of Independent Living at Sumter have access to the pharmacy and can choose to see the doctors, nurse practitioners, therapists and other medical professionals who care for residents in assisted living and memory care.

“These health care professionals also service our independent living residents at their will, so if you live here and don’t want to drive out for medical care, you can receive it here on campus,” says Mica.

CARING SUPPORT Every resident matters and is noticed.

This detail is especially important for residents who live alone. It’s comforting to realize that caring staff members get to know you and will take action if you may need help.

If family doesn’t see their relative often, they may not notice when that person’s mental or physical health changes.

“People don’t slip through the cracks here like they can when living at home alone,” says Mica. “If I haven’t seen someone doing their normal routine, I’m going to check on them. For example, if someone hasn’t been coming to lunch and they usually do, we follow up and will reach out to their contact if needed.”

Whenever a resident signs their lease, they are asked to provide emergency contacts and power of attorney contact (POA) to make sure staff knows who to contact should that be necessary.

“We’re able to intervene and can be the line of communication between a resident’s family and emergency contacts,” notes Mica.

Should your situation change, help is available right where you live.

“Independent living is truly a standalone community, but if their care needs change, residents have first priority over someone living off campus to move into assisted living or memory care,” says Mica.

DEDICATED EMPLOYEES Residents appreciate that with 150 employees working across the campus, there is always someone who can help or address whatever question or need they may have.

Even in independent living, there’s someone at the front desk 24/7.

“We pride ourselves on hiring the best staff, training them well and retaining

Deborah Rivera Dining Services Director

them,” says Mica. “Some members of the team have been here since the community opened in 2012.”

Fitness Director Hansi Morales has created an extensive calendar of exercise classes for all interests, from stretching and strength training to cardio drumming, vibration plate and more.

Classes are held across campus five days a week with life enrichment activities offered every weekday.

STYLISH REFRESH Independent Living at Sumter routinely earns 5-star satisfaction reviews from residents.

In July, the community marked its re-grand opening to celebrate a major refresh of most common spaces. The lobby, restaurant, bar, bistro, fitness center, and full-service salon all received a bright makeover with new flooring, lighting, furniture, and paint.

Units have always received a refresh between residents and are upgraded as needed with new flooring and new appliances. Now the common spaces share the same appealing presentation.

“We are the oldest independent living facility in The Villages®, with a high occupancy rate of 98 to 100 percent, but we were aging, and first impressions are everything,” says Mica. “We reinvested back into the community so that

residents can visually have the same level of quality as their experiences here.

We’ve been providing great experiences and now our aesthetics match. Now we look like what we provide.

We match our vibe!”

If you’re ready for all of the benefits with none of the responsibilities, call today. Make plans to come tour the property. Have a meal, enjoy some entertainment and experience how it feels to live like a resident of Independent Living at Sumter.

It’s not like home, it IS home.

1490 Killingsworth Way, The Villages 352.618.2587 www.sumterseniorliving.com License #12227 PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

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UROGYNECOLOGY EXPERT

Bela Kudish, MD, MS, FACOG

Meet the Expert: Bela Kudish, MD, MS, FACOG, is a double board-certified, fellowship-trained urogynecologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of complex pelvic conditions, lower urinary tract disorders and pelvic floor dysfunction. With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Kudish is known for her compassionate approach.

UF Health Medical Group Urogynecology ufhealth.org/doctors/bela-kudish-napartovich

How does urogynecology differ from general gynecology or urology?

A: Urogynecology combines aspects of gynecology and urology, focusing specifically on female pelvic floor disorders. We treat conditions involving bladder and bowel control, pelvic organ support and pelvic floor function. While general gynecology focuses on the overall health of the female reproductive system and urology deals with the urinary tract and male and female reproductive organs, urogynecology specifically addresses the overlap between these areas, particularly concerning the pelvic floor's structure and function in women.

What are the most common conditions treated in your practice?

• Urinary incontinence • Pelvic organ prolapse • Overactive bladder • Recurrent urinary tract infections • Pelvic pain • Bowel-control problems There are a variety of pelvic floor disorders that can cause discomfort,

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pain or difficulties with bowel and bladder functions. My goal is to help patients manage these conditions through a variety of treatments, ranging from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to medications and surgery.

How do you diagnose and treat complex urogynecological conditions?

A: We begin with a detailed history and pelvic examination, followed by specialized testing — such as bladder-function testing, cystoscopy or imaging — when necessary. Based on the diagnostic findings, I develop a personalized treatment plan that may include behavioral changes, pelvic floor physical therapy, pessaries and office procedures. For more severe cases, surgical options may be recommended.

What specific services and treatments are offered?

A: We provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for female pelvic floor disorders. Services include: • Bladder retraining • Pelvic floor therapy • Pessary care • Urethral bulking

• Sacral neuromodulation • Incontinence procedures • Vaginal, laparoscopic or robotic reconstructive surgery Whenever possible we utilize minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery and laparoscopic procedures.

These approaches often result in shorter recovery times, less pain and reduced scarring compared to traditional surgery.

Depending on the case, we may need to collaborate with other specialists, such as colorectal surgeons, urologists and physical therapists, to provide the most effective and personalized treatment.

We understand that the many of the conditions we treat here can significantly impact a woman’s daily life.

Helping those patients regain control and comfort can dramatically enhance their overall quality of life.

UF Health Medical Group Urogynecology — Mount Dora 18650 US-441, Mount Dora UF Health Medical Group Urogynecology — Summerfield 10435 SE 170th Place, Summerfield 352.323.5665

SPINAL SURGERY EXPERT

Ali Zarezadeh, MD Meet the Expert: Ali Zarezadeh, MD, a highly skilled spine surgeon with extensive expertise in treating both common and complex spine conditions. Dr. Zarezadeh uses the latest technology and techniques and works with a skilled team of medical professionals at UF Health. The goal is always to restore function, improve quality of life and provide optimal patient outcomes.

UF Health Spine Center ufhealth.org/doctors/ali-zarezadeh

What kind of chronic and complex spine disorders do you treat at UF Health?

A: I treat a wide range of spine conditions affecting both the neck and lower back, from common problems like herniated discs, spinal stenosis and degenerative arthritis to more complex conditions, including: • Scoliosis and spinal deformities • Spinal injury and fractures • Spinal stenosis • Surgical and nonsurgical treatments Many patients have been living with chronic pain or nerve symptoms for years before seeking care. My goal is to understand the source of their symptoms and develop an

individualized treatment plan that helps them return to the activities they enjoy. While surgery is sometimes the best option, many patients improve with nonsurgical treatments. Surgery is recommended only when it offers a meaningful benefit.

How does advanced technology play a role in surgical and nonsurgical spine treatments?

A: Technology has transformed the way we care for spine patients. At UF Health Spine Center, we utilize advanced imaging, computerassisted navigation, intraoperative CT scanning, and minimally invasive surgical techniques that allow us to perform complex procedures with greater precision.

These technologies can improve implant accuracy, reduce tissue disruption, and often help patients recover more quickly. We also use motion-preserving procedures, when appropriate, to maintain normal spinal movement. Just as importantly, advanced MRI and CT imaging help us make more accurate diagnoses and guide treatment decisions, whether that treatment is surgical or non-surgical.

Is there anything people should do on a regular basis to maintain spine health?

A: The best way to maintain a healthy spine is to stay active. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening your core muscles, practicing good posture and avoiding tobacco use all play an important role in preventing back and neck problems. I also encourage patients to listen to their bodies.

Persistent pain, numbness, weakness or balance problems should not be ignored. Seeking evaluation early can often prevent a condition from worsening and may allow us to treat it without surgery.

UF Health Medical Group Orthopaedics — Leesburg 701 Medical Plaza Drive, Leesburg 352.323.4000 UF Health Medical Group Orthopaedics — Spanish Springs 1501 US HWY 441 Building 1800, Suite 1832, The Villages 352.323.4000 UF Health Medical Group Orthopaedics — Tavares 2051 Mayo Drive, Tavares 352.323.4000

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PRIMARY CARE EXPERT

Lyndie Bentley, NP Meet the Expert: Lyndie Bentley, FNP-BC has over 20 years of experience as a registered nurse. Her approach is always to start by listening to the patient, answering their questions and helping them understand the condition they are dealing with. The goal is to have health care professionals and patients working together with patients taking an active role in their own health.

UF Health Medical Group Primary Care ufhealth.org/doctors/lyndie-bentley

What should Central Florida residents know about accessing high-quality primary care at UF Health Medical Group?

A: Primary care is available at several convenient locations throughout the region including The Villages, Leesburg and Mount Dora. Having access to boardcertified primary care specialists gives patients the best opportunity to regain, improve and preserve their health.

We currently have five primary care providers who provide personalized highquality care. In many cases, we’re able to offer same and next-day appointments in Lake, Sumter and Marion counties to work with your busy schedule.

What kind of services are available?

A: From checkups and annual physicals to management of complex and multiple health concerns, we offer comprehensive primary care services, including: • Acute illness, such as respiratory infections and minor wounds • Geriatric Care • Immunizations • Pediatric Care • Preventative Care • Routine Physicals • Routine Screenings • Treatment of minor injuries • Wellness Exams

What about patients dealing with chronic conditions and acute illness?

A: Our providers care for patients with chronic conditions that require management, such as: • Asthma • Cardiovascular Disease

• COPD • Diabetes • Hypertension

For more information, visit our website at UFHealth.org/Primary-Care-CentralFlorida. Take charge of your health and call today to schedule an appointment at the most convenient location.

UF Health Medical Group Primary Care – Leesburg 700 Doctors Ct., Leesburg 352.323.5665 UF Health Medical Group Primary Care – Mount Dora 1898 N Donnelly St., Mount Dora 352.720.7980 UF Health Medical Group Primary Care – Summerfield 10435 SE 170 Place, Summerfield 352.323.5665 UF Health Medical Group — Primary Care and Multispecialty 18650 US 441, Mount Dora 352.323.5665

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COLORECTAL EXPERT

Cesar ReateguiSanchez, MD Meet the Expert: Cesar Reategui-Sanchez, MD, is a board-certified colorectal surgeon who specializes in advanced GI and surgical oncology and routinely uses robotic and minimally invasive surgery to treat patients.

He has contributed to the Colorectal Disease Site Working Group at the Society of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Reategui-Sanchez credits his mother, a retired physician, for inspiring his passion for medicine early in life.

Uf Health Medical Group - Colorectal Surgery ufhealth.org/doctors/cesar-o-reategui-sanchez

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in our country, so what are the recommended screening guidelines?

A: For people with no risk factors, screening is now advised to start at age 45. Ideally, someone should have a colonoscopy every 10 years. Because a colonoscopy provides an in-depth look at the entire colon, this screening tool is considered the “gold standard.” Alternatives include stool DNA testing every 3 years or flexible sigmoidoscopy performed every 5 years in combination with yearly stool occult blood testing.

Having a parent or sibling with colorectal cancer or polyps generally means you should start screening at age 40 and continue screening every 5 years.

What factors can make someone more at risk for colorectal cancer?

A: There’s not a definitive answer to what causes colorectal cancer, but we do know that certain factors can increase someone’s risk of developing colorectal cancer, including: • Being older than 50 • Smoking • Family history of colorectal cancer, especially in parents and/or siblings • Having Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis for 8 years or longer • History of colorectal polyps in your family or personally • Having had breast, uterine or ovarian cancer

Since colorectal cancer is often not diagnosed until it has progressed to later stages, what symptoms should people be aware of?

A: People don’t typically have obvious symptoms in the early stages of colorectal cancer. By the time someone is experiencing abdominal pain and weight loss, the cancer is already late stage. This is why routine screenings are so important.

Symptoms include: • Change in bowel habits: constipation, diarrhea, frequency of the bowel movements • Narrow/smaller shaped stools • Bright red or very dark blood in the stool • Ongoing abdominal or pelvic pain

• Bloating • Unexplained weight loss • Nausea or vomiting • Fatigue, tired most of the time

Why is UF Health ranked as one of the top places to receive colon cancer surgery?

A: UF Health offers the latest in surgical care for colon and rectal disease and pelvic floor disorders.

The surgical team can use minimally invasive procedures, such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery and robotic procedures for the best patient outcomes.

Ready to take the next step in your health? Visit ufhealth.org/ufhealth-colorectal-services to learn more and schedule an appointment at a location near you.

UF Health Medical Group Surgical Specialists — Leesburg 705 Doctors Court, Leesburg 352.323.5025 UF Health Medical Group — Primary Care and Multispecialty 18650 US-441, Mount Dora 352.323.5665

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ONCOLOGY EXPERT

Norman Anderson, MD, FACR Meet the Expert: Norman Anderson, MD, FACR has been in practice since 1985. With five locations in Central Florida, RBOI provides patient-centered oncology close to home and is accredited by the American College of Radiology and the American Society for Radiation Oncology.

Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute RBOI.com | 5 RBOI Locations for your convenience

What is low-dose radiation therapy?

A: Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) uses carefully targeted, low levels of radiation to reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by certain benign, or noncancerous, conditions, and stops destruction of cartilage. The radiation dose is substantially lower than doses typically used to treat cancer.

What benign conditions may be treated with LDRT? A: LDRT may be considered for osteoarthritis and other chronic inflammatory or degenerative conditions affecting joints and spine.

Eligibility depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, prior treatments, and the radiation oncologist’s clinical assessment.

Who may be a candidate for treatment?

A: Patients may be considered when pain or limited mobility continues despite established conservative treatments. These treatments may include medications, injections, physical therapy, activity modification, bracing, or other appropriate medical care.

LDRT may also be considered when these treatments are not tolerated

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or are medically contraindicated, and when the patient is not ready, willing, or medically able to pursue surgery.

How does LDRT help relieve symptoms?

course may include several treatments scheduled over approximately two to three weeks, depending on the physician’s recommendation.

Are there side effects?

A: LDRT is intended to produce an antiinflammatory response in the treated area. By decreasing inflammation, treatment may reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling and may improve mobility.

It stops the destruction of cartilage but does not repair cartilage or reverse existing joint damage.

A: Side effects are generally limited because the radiation dose is low. Some patients may experience temporary soreness, mild skin irritation, or a short-term increase in symptoms. Your physician will discuss potential shortand long-term risks based on the area being treated.

What happens before treatment begins?

Can LDRT be repeated?

A: You will meet with a radiation oncologist who will review your medical history, imaging, diagnosis, symptoms, and previous treatments. If LDRT is appropriate, a planning appointment called a simulation will be scheduled to identify the exact treatment area and create a personalized plan.

A: Yes. The standard treatment approach consists of three cycles delivered within a structured timeframe, consistent with established European clinical protocols. The patient’s response will be evaluated at scheduled follow-up visits, and each additional cycle will be provided based on the physician’s clinical assessment.

What is treatment like?

Will insurance cover treatment?

A: Treatment is painless and usually takes only a few minutes, although additional time is needed for positioning. Radiation is delivered only to the planned area. A typical

A: Coverage varies by insurance plan and medical-necessity requirements.

Our team will review benefits and obtain authorization when required before treatment begins.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE EXPERT

Gretta Ellis, FNP Meet the Expert: Gretta Ellis, APRN, worked as an ER nurse, in hospice, palliative care, and family medicine before founding Ellis Integrative Family Practice in Tavares. She and her team are dedicated to preventative wellness and helping patients achieve long-term health.

Ellis Integrative Family Practice 1865 Nightingale Lane, Suite B, Tavares | 352.508.5418 | ellisintegrative.com

What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)?

A: This is a condition in which mast cells—an important part of the immune system—become overly sensitive and release inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine, when they shouldn't.

Normally, mast cells help protect the body from infections, parasites, and injury. In people with MCAS, however, they overreact to triggers that are often harmless, leading to symptoms throughout the body.

SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:

• Flushing • Hives • Itching • Asthma • Abdominal Pain • Diarrhea

• Headaches • Brain Fog • Fatigue • Dizziness • Heart Palpitations • Joint Pain

What causes mast cells to overreact?

A: There is no single cause of MCAS, and it is likely influenced by multiple factors. Genetics may make some individuals more susceptible, while chronic infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, hormonal

changes, environmental exposures (especially mold), and physical or emotional stress can contribute to mast cell activation. Some patients also have related conditions such as POTS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or long COVID. Although triggers vary from person to person, the result is an immune system that reacts more strongly than necessary.

How is MCAS diagnosed?

A: There is no single test that confirms MCAS. Diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms involving multiple body systems, laboratory evidence of mast cell mediator release, and improvement with treatments that stabilize mast cells. Blood tests, such as serum tryptase, and specialized urine tests for histamine and prostaglandin metabolites may be helpful, particularly when collected during a flare. Because many other conditions can mimic MCAS, a thorough evaluation is important to rule out other causes.

Can MCAS be treated successfully?

A: While there is currently no universal cure, many patients experience significant improvement with the right treatment plan. Management focuses on identifying and avoiding triggers,

using medications that stabilize mast cells or block inflammatory mediators, and treating any underlying conditions that may contribute to immune dysfunction.

Some patients achieve long-term remission if an underlying trigger can be addressed, while others require ongoing management to keep symptoms under control. With a personalized treatment approach, many individuals experience fewer flares and a greatly improved quality of life.

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WELLNESS SPA EXPERT

Sabrina Ciceri Meet the Expert: Sabrina Ciceri, owner and founder or Immunity Health Spa, has been a leader in preventative medicine and wellness for the last 20 years. After working 10 years as a conventional nurse, she began training and learning natural ways to support the body so it can heal itself and boost the immune system to prevent premature aging and illness. She spent a decade working with the number one healing center in the world with serious diagnosis such as Cancer, Lyme disease, Auto Immune and much more. She bring that knowledge and passion to her home town community and is dedicated to using innovative treatments with scientific backing and proven protocols to help people achieve optimal health.

Immunity Health Spa 33040 Professional Drive, Leesburg | 833-4-TIME4U | immunityhealth.com

Life is so hectic and we’re soon going into one of the busiest seasons of the year. What treatments would you recommend for someone wanting to stay healthy and renew their energy?

A: When we're "running on low," our cells may not have enough of the vital nutrients they need to efficiently produce energy, support the nervous system, and maintain normal body functions. IV nutrient therapy and vitamin injections can help replenish certain nutrients more quickly than oral supplementation alone.

How do you personalize a protocol for someone after their consultation?

A: This is very individualized. We develop a protocol based on how the client is feeling and what struggles they share. Ideally, we encourage some type of diagnostic testing (advance lab test, stool testing, micronutrient testing, hormone testing, foodintolerance testing, etc.). Such testing is the best way to dig deeper and know exactly what is going on without guessing. There are times that testing may not be necessary and just based on conversation with the client,

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we’ve found that a good supplement, IV nutrient drip, or a treatment modality such as Red Light therapy, could be helpful.

If someone can only come in once or twice a month, which treatments would offer the most benefits for that schedule?

A: Layering multiple therapies (bio-stacking) magnifies the benefits.

If someone is looking for the best "Whole-Body" monthly visit plan, I recommend:

O P T I M I Z I N G H E A LT H . E L E VAT I N G L I F E .

• Personalized IV Nutrient Therapy - This will help replenish targeted nutrients, improve hydration, support energy, and immune function. You can choose from a full menu of IV Drips, depending on your individual needs.

• Pair that IV Nutrient Therapy with one of the following modalities: - Hyperbaric (oxygenation and recovery support) - Theralight 360/Red Light Therapy (cellular energy and inflammation support) - VEMI Bed (nervous system relaxation and stress recovery) If you were able to do this plan even once per month, wow, what a bonus that will be for your body! We know that the body can heal itself when given the support it needs not just to survive but thrive.

TH E RA L I GH T 360

NUTRITION EXPERT

Katie Gravante, CL. N., CNC

Meet the Expert: Katie Gravante, CL. N., CNC, is a clinical nutritionist with Immunity Health Spa who has worked in the medical field for 30 years in both traditional medicine and functional medicine. She focuses on healing the body through a diagnostic and holistic approach that combines proper testing, supplementation, detoxification, dietary changes, and other supportive therapies and modalities.

O P T I M I Z I N G H E A LT H . E L E VAT I N G L I F E .

Immunity Health Spa 33040 Professional Drive, Leesburg | 833-4-TIME4U | immunityhealth.com

What is the gut-brain connection and how does this impact our everyday lives and health?

A: The gut-brain connection is the two-way communication system between the digestive tract and the brain. The gut and brain are constantly sending signals back and forth through nerves, hormones, immune pathways, and chemicals produced by the gut microbe. When this is disrupted, we present with more symptoms like brain fog, low energy, mood changes, poor sleep, weight gain, bloating, digestion problems, low stress tolerance, compromised immune system, lowered ability to prevent disease and premature aging.

How can colonics release builtup waste and restore balance?

A: We use closed system colonics, a therapy that addresses a range of issues. During treatment, filtered, temperature-controlled water is gently introduced into the large intestines at low pressure through a small rectal tube. The water helps soften and loosen stool, and the body's natural contractions help move waste out through the tubing system. It can help restore balance by assisting the

body's natural elimination process, relieving stool buildup, and creating gut awareness, which influences every cell in the body. Also, during colonics it’s great to introduce implants of nutrients that are immediately absorbed into the bloodstream and stimulate the liver to cleanse and detox. Most people feel an immediate improvement with energy, mental clarity, and reduction of bloating after the first session.

Who should consider using this treatment?

A: Anyone could truly benefit from colonics, but there are some common signs that you may need treatment, including: • Constipation • Fatigue • Bad Breath • Body Odor • Skin Issues

• Bloating • Headaches • Mental Fog • Low Energy

What are ways to better support our health knowing the immune system is housed in the gut and most disease processes begin there?

It’s not just one supplement or one dietary change that can take care of the requirements of a strong gut and immune system. We need multiple

approaches to support cleansing the entire body system and energizing our cellular health to stay strong and detox pathways clear. We have brought all of these to Immunity’s offerings: • Body massage, scrubs and wraps • Sauna, Cryotherapy (Dual Chamber Electric and cold plunge) • Steam and Hot tub • Colonics • IV Therapy • Redlight therapy • Hormones/Nutritional testing and support • Weekly and Monthly Cleansing Programs

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE EXPERT

Purvi Desai, DO Meet the Expert: Purvi Desai, DO, VITAS medical director, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and fellowship trained hospice and palliative medicine physician.

Dr. Desai is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered end-of-life care that preserves dignity, honors individual values, and supports patients and families through every stage of their journey.

Vitas Healthcare 800.93.VITAS | vitas.com/referrals

What do families most often wish they had known—or done—sooner?

What are common misconceptions about hospice care?

A: People frequently say, “I wish we had called hospice sooner.” Many families wait until the final days of life, not realizing that hospice can provide valuable support for months, not just days. Hospice is most beneficial when patients and families have time to fully access the support and resources available.

Families often wish they had started conversations about care goals, priorities and preferences sooner.

Hospice focuses on what matters most to the patient and helping them live as comfortably and meaningfully as possible. When discussions happen earlier, patients and families have more time to make informed decisions, create meaningful moments together, find peace and avoid crisis-driven choices.

Hospice helps families know what to expect as their loved one’s illness progresses. VITAS provides education and 24/7/365 clinical support, so families can focus their energy on spending quality time together rather than navigating a medical crisis. VITAS Inpatient Care Center at Edgewater Village will open in late 2026 to help care for patients with acute symptoms.

• Hospice is a service, not a place. Many people believe hospice means moving into a facility, however, hospice is a philosophy and service of care that is provided wherever a patient calls home.

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• Hospice is not “giving up.” Hospice focuses on comfort, symptom management, dignity and quality of life, rather than curing disease.

Patients and families often discover that hospice helps them make the most of the time they have together.

• Hospice is not just for the last few days of life. Eligibility for hospice begins when a physician determines that a patient may have six months or less to live if the illness follows its expected course. Timelier enrollment allows patients and families to benefit more fully from the support hospice provides.

• Families worry about the cost of care, but Medicare Part A covers hospice services, typically with little to no outof-pocket costs.

To learn whether hospice may be appropriate for a loved one, schedule a no-obligation eligibility consultation with VITAS. Referrals are accepted 24/7/365 through the VITAS mobile app.

RETINA CARE EXPERT

Nisarg P. Joshi, MD Meet the Expert: Nisarg P. Joshi, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained vitreoretinal specialist who joined Florida Retina Institute in September 2023. His research has focused heavily on surgical and medical retina. He conducts clinical trials and routinely treats patients for various eye conditions, including dry age-related macular degeneration and uveitis.

Florida Retina Institute 4072 E FL-44, Freedom Plaza, Wildwood | 352.612.9006 | floridaretinainstitute.com

Many people develop “floaters” and “flashes” as they age, so is there any reason I should see an ophthalmologist about them?

A: Floaters are incredibly common and as we age, a gradual increase in floaters is normal. Most people develop them as the vitreous gel inside the eye naturally shrinks and separates from the retina with age. Floaters can manifest in a variety of shapes. People have described them as dots, bugs, worms, cobwebs, clouds, and other images.

Flashes can resemble shimmering, flashing or streaks of light in your field of vision.

As the vitreous pulls away, it can occasionally tug hard enough to tear the retina, and a tear can silently progress to a detachment if it’s missed.

My advice for every patient is that any new onset of floaters or flashes deserves a dilated eye exam within a few days. It’s the best way to rule out a retinal tear and detachment.

What are symptoms of retinal detachment syndrome and why does this serious condition need prompt medical attention to avoid permanent vision loss?

A: A retinal detachment is a true emergency, so don’t delay seeking medical help if you experience any of these symptoms: · Sudden increase in floaters · Floaters that resemble a shower of floaters or new large cobweb · Flashes of light, especially off to the side

· Flashes that resemble c-shaped streaks or lighting strikes · Dark curtain or shadow covers part of your vision

Once the retina detaches, it loses its nutrient supply and can develop permanent damage. Early on, the detachment is often still peripheral with the center part of your vision intact. This is the best time to catch and treat the detachment to preserve excellent vision. The longer the retina stays detached, the more damage can accrue. So, as with most health issues, the sooner you treat it, the better it is. That’s the reason we treat these symptoms with urgency. The goal is always to protect and preserve your vision.

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ORTHOPEDICS EXPERT

Alfred Cook, Jr., MD Meet the Expert: Alfred Cook, Jr., MD is a boardcertified orthopedic surgeon and founder of the Advanced Orthopedics Institute. A leading expert in the reverse total shoulder procedure, Dr. Cook specializes in shoulder reconstruction, cartilage regeneration and total joint replacement.

Advanced Orthopedics Institute 1400 North U.S. Hwy 441, Suite 552, The Villages | 352.751.2862 | goaoi.com

What is new with shoulder rotator cuff repair?

A: We are looking at the biologic approach to problems. Instead of putting metal in the body, whenever possible we’re trying to use biology to cure disease. For the last two years, we’ve been using the Regeneten patch and have had excellent outcomes in pain relief, mobility and diminished risk for re-tear after surgery. The Regeneten patch is a collagen-based bio inductive implant applied to the rotator cuff once repair has been performed.

The patch reinforces the repair as tissue grows into it and creates a healing environment.

What is the latest in knee cartilage regeneration?

A: Beginning this year, we’ve been using the CartiHeal Agili-C implant, which now has FDA approval and five years of data behind it. The procedure is specifically designed to repair damaged knee cartilage and bone. Most of the technology that exists and the way procedures are performed are more invasive or require multiple surgeries.

CartiHeal is a one-step process.

We remove damaged cartilage from the knee and place the CartiHeal in

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that lesion like a plug. This unique implant is made from aragonite, which is derived from the exoskeletons of coral. Because the implant material is porous, it acts like a support structure for new tissue to grow and promotes the natural healing process. The implant is gradually absorbed by the body and replaced with new cartilage and bone tissue over a period of 12 to 24 months.

Patients have done well with the CartiHeal and report significant relief from pain and improved joint function.

We’ve also found it helps decrease the advance of arthritis in the knee. The goal is to rejuvenate and replenish lost cartilage, but we’re also trying to short-circuit the pathway for arthritis and believe this will be a realistic way for some patients to avoid knee replacement in the future.

To learn more about the technology and see if the procedure can help you, call to make an appointment for evaluation. After doing an MRI, we have an idea if a patient is a good candidate for CartiHeal.

MENTAL HEALTH EXPERT

Alisha Casamona Meet the Expert: Alisha Casamona is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who founded Red Bird Cottage and Farm LLC in 2022. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and has completed doctoral-level coursework toward a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. A lifelong equestrian, Alisha has earned numerous competitive honors, including 2024 Reserve World Champion in level one hunter under saddle at the AQHA Worlds.

Red Bird Cottage and Farm 814.671.2364 (call or text) | redbirdcottageandfarm.com

What is Wellness Horsemanship and what can someone expect to experience?

A: Nature is organically healing, but a lot of people don’t have horses available to them. Wellness Horsemanship combines mindfulness techniques, breathwork, and life coaching components. If you love animals and being outside but don’t have your own horse, this can be just what you’re craving. Some people schedule this as their weekly “self-care” session.

Many people consider Wellness Horsemanship as a “gym for the mind.”

Sessions are one hour and include time on the ground and horseback.

Some participants have been riding a long time, while others have never been on a horse before. Alisha works with each person based on their experience. Even if someone doesn’t want to ride, they’re still spending rich, quality time with the horse.

will learn to ride, but you’ll do so by learning to slow down, be mindful and communicate successfully with the horse.

How can someone get started with Wellness Horsemanship?

A: Book your initial session, during which you’ll meet Alisha and the horses and establish customized goals for your self-care needs.

What other programs are available?

A: Alisha offers non-clinical grief support and life coaching. Kristen Janica, LCSW, provides clinical mental health counseling.

Sessions can take place indoors or outdoors in a tranquil, lakeside setting with horses grazing nearby.

Kristen Janica, LCSW, also coaches trauma-informed yoga, which focuses on relieving trauma-stored tension where each person carries it.

Learn gentle, accessible movement, breathwork, and grounding to help regulate your nervous system and shift out of fight, flight, or freeze states.

Sunrise or sunset group yoga sessions are also available.

Learn about programs and book sessions on the website. Specials are always offered!

Is this different from regular riding lessons?

A: This is not your traditional riding lesson, which is about learning to ride and be competitive. This is about human mental wellness, not your walk-trot-canter standard lesson. You

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VEINS EXPERT

John D. Horowitz MD, FACS

Meet the Expert: John D. Horowitz MD, FACS, a board-certified vascular surgeon, has been practicing vascular surgery since 1993, dedicated to minimally invasive vein therapies. He is the founder of Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center with four locations, now celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center The Villages, Ocoee, Kissimmee, Oviedo | 352.736.6764 | cfvein.com

What inspired you to focus on venous disease and start the practice 25 years ago?

A: As a vascular surgeon I have cared for patients with both arterial and venous disorders, but vein and arterial patients are two distinct patient populations with very different health problems and needs. As one of the only adopters of dedicated vein care in Central Florida, I have been able to create a practice where venous disease is the highest priority of care. Patients get the specialty attention they deserve from practitioners who are truly experts in the field, as opposed to a practice that mixes arterial and venous care.

What specific conditions bring patients to your practice and what sets CFVVC apart from other practices?

A: The most common reasons people present to us are visible varicose veins, spider veins, leg pain, heaviness, tiredness and swelling. As a comprehensive vein care center, in addition to routine vein problems we are equipped to help patients with more advanced, complex problems such as venous ulceration or skin breakdown, DVT or blood clots, restless

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legs syndrome, and lymphedema. Most other vein treatment practices do not care for the full spectrum of venous and lymphatic diseases, while our doctors have achieved board certification in their treatment. We focus solely on venous disorders to provide the most advanced, state-of-the-art care in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. This results in a higher level of care and better patient experience.

Is it normal to have leg pain and swelling or should this be a concern?

A: One of the most common misconceptions is that leg pain, aching,

heaviness and tiredness are a normal part of aging.

These symptoms may represent underlying venous insufficiency, the root cause of venous insufficiency or blood pooling in the legs. Untreated venous insufficiency is unhealthy and is always progressive over time, so early treatment is best. Venous ulceration or even blood clots can occur if untreated.

What can indicate early signs of venous disease?

A: The following symptoms are warnings that underlying elevated venous pressure may need attention: • Visible leg changes, such as varicose veins or spider veins • Swelling of the foot, ankle or calf If you have these symptoms or other concerns, call today to schedule an appointment for evaluation and treatment.

WELLNESS COMMUNITY EXPERT

Doug Bruk, COO Meet the Expert: Doug Bruk is chief operating officer for GT USA, developer of Panther Run, a master-planned community in the Wellness Way corridor. A U.S. Army veteran, Bruk has more than 20 years of leadership experience throughout the southeastern United States, with expertise in development, home building, land planning and placemaking.

Panther Run pantherrunfl.com

What should readers know about the role “wellness” plays in plans for Panther Run? Wellness is about more than fitness.

It is about designing a community that makes healthy living, connection and access to everyday needs part of daily life.

Wellness Way was planned around Lake County’s strengths, including its reputation as a winter training destination for world-class athletes and plans for a new National Training Center along US 27. As the largest development in the Wellness Way corridor, Panther Run embraces those principles on a community-wide scale.

Panther Run will include 11 miles of trails and 20 parks, all open to the public. Those amenities will be connected to neighborhoods,

commercial areas and employment centers, making it easier to walk, bike and interact with neighbors.

More than 1 million square feet will be devoted to non-residential uses. That creates opportunities for jobs closer to home, potentially reducing long commutes and giving residents more time for family, recreation and community.

How do master-planned communities offer better opportunities for wellness?

The entirety of Wellness Way is master planned. That allows the area to be designed as a connected whole rather than developed piecemeal.

Transportation, conservation, parks, neighborhoods and employment can all be coordinated

in ways that benefit both people and the environment.

More than 72% of Panther Run will remain green space, including lakes and wetlands, helping to complete a critical connection within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. This corridor supports the movement of native wildlife through Central Florida, connecting North Florida to the Everglades.

Ultimately, wellness is about stewardship as much as recreation. It means creating a community where people can enjoy Lake County’s outdoor lifestyle while protecting the land, water and wildlife that make the area special.

How will Panther Run help meet the area’s growing public-service needs?

Wellness also means having essential services close to home. Panther Run includes an eight-acre Public Safety Complex planned to serve the surrounding area, and planning anticipates the need for additional educational facilities, including a potential new high school. These investments can help ensure that public services and infrastructure grow alongside the community.

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DENTAL EXPERT

Keyur Patel, DDS Meet the Expert: Dr. Patel is a proud graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, completing his studies in May 2020. He currently resides in Central Florida with his wife and two children. Passionate about improving lives, Dr. Patel is actively involved in humanitarian efforts to enhance his community. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and exploring the high seas.

Elite Dental of Summerfield 17820 Southeast 109th Avenue, Summerfield | 352. 245.5400 | elitedentalfl.com

How many dental visits do I need each year?

A: For most people, two visits a year — every six months — cover routine hygiene cleanings and exams. This twice-yearly rhythm lets your dental team catch small problems before they become expensive ones and keeps plaque and tartar from building up.

Some patients with gum concerns or other risk factors need to come in three or four times a year. Your dentist will tell you if your situation calls for a more frequent schedule.

Why are X-rays so important, and can I have an exam or cleaning without them?

A: X-rays reveal what the eye can't: cavities between teeth, bone loss, root infections, cysts, and impacted teeth all hide below the surface. By the time a problem is visible, it's usually more advanced. X-rays catch it early, when treatment is simpler, more comfortable, and more affordable.

Think of it this way: just as lab work is essential to primary care, X-rays are our "labs" in dentistry; they let us see beyond the surface.

They let us see beyond the surface.

Without them, we're only seeing part

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of the picture, and could easily miss something developing underneath.

That's why a truly thorough exam relies on them.

If I get regular cleanings, why am I told I need an SRP?

A: This is one of the most common worries we hear, and the reassuring answer is no. Dental X-rays use an extremely low dose of radiation; far less than you're exposed to naturally from the environment in everyday life.

Modern digital X-rays have cut that exposure even further. Your team also takes protective steps, and X-rays are only taken when they're needed to protect your health. The information they provide far outweighs the minimal exposure.

A: It's a fair question. A regular cleaning (called a prophylaxis) maintains healthy gums by removing plaque and tartar at and just above the gumline. An SRP is a different, more involved treatment for when disease has already taken hold beneath the gums. If bacteria and tartar have worked their way into deeper pockets around your teeth, a standard cleaning can't reach them. An SRP does. It's not a sign you've neglected your teeth; gum disease can develop for many reasons, including genetics, and sometimes a deeper cleaning is simply what the situation requires.

Healthy Tooth

Periodontitis

Is it dangerous to have dental X-rays taken?

What exactly is periodontal disease?

A: Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and the bone that support your teeth. It starts as gingivitis — red, swollen, or bleeding gums — and if left unchecked, it can advance to periodontitis, where the supporting bone begins to break down. Left untreated, it's actually the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

The good news is that it's highly manageable when caught early, which is another reason those regular visits matter so much.

What's the difference between a prophylaxis cleaning and a periodontal cleaning?

A: A prophylaxis is a preventive cleaning for healthy mouths; it keeps good gums healthy. A periodontal cleaning (that maintenance schedule

mentioned earlier) is for patients who have been treated for gum disease and need ongoing, more thorough care to keep it from returning. The difference comes down to your gum health: one prevents disease, the other manages it.

What's the difference between traditional dentures and implant dentures?

A: Traditional dentures rest on top of your gums and are usually held in place with suction or adhesive.

They're removable and a time-tested solution. Implant dentures, by contrast, anchor to titanium posts placed in the jawbone. This gives them a secure, stable fit that doesn't slip, allows for stronger chewing, and helps preserve the jawbone over time, something traditional dentures can't do.

How long do dentures last before they need replacing?

A: Traditional dentures generally last five to seven years. Over time, your mouth naturally changes shape and the dentures wear, so they'll eventually need relining or replacing to keep fitting comfortably.

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ADVANCED WOUND CARE EXPERT

Joy Hall, APRN Meet the Expert: Joy Hall, an autonomous Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with specialized expertise in wound care and lower extremity preservation. She is the owner of Advanced Wound Ostomy and Continence Care and brings extensive knowledge and experience in wound, ostomy, and foot care nursing, having previously held CWON and CFCN certifications. She is dedicated to providing evidence-based care for patients with chronic, complex, and non-healing wounds, ostomy and continence issues.

Advanced Wound Ostomy & Continence Care 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ste. 6003, Ocala | 352.897.0063 | myadvancedwound.com

What types of injuries require advanced wound care?

A: Advanced wound care is necessary for wounds that aren’t healing as expected or are at risk of serious complications. This includes diabetic foot ulcers, pressure injuries (bedsores), venous and arterial leg ulcers, surgical wounds with delayed healing, burns, etc. One of the biggest misconceptions is that a wound will eventually heal on its own if it is simply covered. If a wound has not shown significant improvement within two to four weeks, it should be evaluated by a wound care specialist.

Early intervention is critical because prompt, specialized treatment can prevent infection, hospitalization, and even amputation.

WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE:

• Increasing Redness • Swelling • Warmth • Drainage • Foul Odor • Worsening Pain • Fever • Black or discolored tissue • Wound continues to enlarge rather than improve

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What is an “ostomy” and how can specialized care help patients maintain quality of life?

A: An ostomy is a surgically created opening, called a stoma, that allows waste to leave the body when part of the digestive or urinary system is no longer functioning normally. Ostomies may be temporary or permanent and are often necessary because of conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, trauma, or bladder disease.

Adjusting to life with an ostomy can feel overwhelming, but with proper education and support, most people with an ostomy can travel, exercise, swim, work, and enjoy a full, active lifestyle.

What advancements in wound, ostomy, and continence care are making the biggest differences?

A: Today's approach is far more evidence-based, individualized, and focused on treating the underlying cause of a wound rather than simply covering it. We now have advanced dressings that help regulate moisture, manage bacteria, and stimulate healing, as well as therapies such as negative pressure wound therapy, biologic skin substitutes, and improved compression systems for

patients with venous disease. Better diagnostic tools allow us to identify circulation problems, pressure risks, and infection earlier. In ostomy care, improvements in pouching systems and skin barrier technology have significantly reduced leakage and skin irritation. Successful outcomes require treating the whole person. Nutrition, diabetes management, circulation, mobility, and patient education all play essential roles in wound healing and long-term health.

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Prostate & Ovarian Cancer Basics PA I D

PROM OT IO N A L

F E AT U R E

T

he prostate gland is about the size of a walnut in younger men, but it enlarges as men age. It adds fluid to semen, and its muscles help push semen through the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body through the penis.

Being age 50 or older, having a history of smoking, having a family history of prostate cancer, and being African American increases one’s risk of the disease. Prostate cancers tend to grow slowly.

Some tumors never become a problem, but this is not always the case. A PSA test measures prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated levels can mean cancer is present.

Early-stage prostate cancer usually has no symptoms, but they can show up later. Symptoms include

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having to pee more often (especially at night) or straining to empty your bladder, blood in your urine or seminal fluid, new onset of erectile dysfunction, discomfort or pain when sitting, and pain or burning when urinating. Other symptoms can occur if cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland.

Should you get screened if you have no symptoms? There’s no easy answer, because tumor growth is hard to predict. Discuss your risks with your doctor.

How is prostate cancer treated with radiation?

Prostate cancer is most often treated with external-beam radiation therapy (EBRT), delivered from outside the body, and specifically with intensitymodulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which treats the tumor while protecting nearby normal tissues.

In another method, brachytherapy, small radioactive pellets are placed directly into the prostate.

Brachytherapy alone is generally used only in men with relatively slow-growing, early-stage prostate cancer. Brachytherapy combined with external radiation is sometimes used with men whose cancer is more likely to grow outside the prostate.

How is ovarian cancer treated with radiation?

by the numbers

333,830 and

21,010

Estimated new cases of prostate and ovarian cancers in the U.S. in 2026

13.2% and

1.1%

Proportion of men who will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and women who will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in their lifetimes in the U.S.

3,700,086 and

254,621

Men living with prostate cancer and women living with ovarian cancer in the U.S. in 2023

0.8% and

2.9%

Decrease in average annual death rates of prostate and ovarian cancers in the U.S. over 2015–2024

Ovarian Cancer Basics

Radiation therapy is not used as a first treatment for ovarian/ fallopian tube cancer. Externalbeam radiation therapy (EBRT), delivered from outside the body, is sometimes used to treat small, localized recurrent cancer. Brachytherapy, in which radioactive pellets are placed inside the body, is rarely done for ovarian cancer.

Ovaries are about the size of an almond. They release eggs and the hormones that control menstruation. When ovarian cancer develops, it is usually in cells on the outside of the ovary, though it can also occur in the fallopian tubes, which transport eggs from the ovary to the uterus (womb).

Ovarian cancer is usually aggressive and the risk of this disease increases with age. It’s rare in women younger than 40, but half of all ovarian cancers are found in women age 63 or older. Women who have never had a child, who have not taken birth control pills, or who were older than 35 when they had their first full-term pregnancy are also at higher risk. Additional risks include a family history of ovarian and several other cancers.

The most common symptoms of ovarian cancer are bloating and belly pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, and frequent urges to urinate.

Other symptoms include pronounced fatigue, back pain and pain during sexual intercourse, constipation, and menstrual changes like heavier or irregular bleeding. Speak with your doctor if you experience these discomforts.

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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WITHOUT

JUDGMENT The path to healing often begins with someone willing to listen.

STORY: GINA HORAN

hen she gets the call, Georgia Skyers takes a deep breath.

“Someone was violated and I have to settle myself because I’m human too,” she says.

By the time she walks into the exam room, Georgia knows the patient will need more than medical care.

“The person in front of me is looking at me to be a source of stability and I need to be the most whole version of me so I can be present for them.”

As the sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) program coordinator at Haven of Lake and Sumter Counties in Leesburg, Georgia serves patients across Lake, Marion, Sumter and parts of Citrus counties, often meeting people in the immediate aftermath of trauma. The work is both clinical and deeply human.

“I have to enter the space without judgment,” Georgia says. “It’s a safe space but it is also very scientific.”

She responds when law enforcement, emergency room, family members or victims reach out for help. Exams usually take place at a local crisis center, but each case

≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

is different. The goal, however, is the same: provide care, preserve evidence and create a sense of safety in a moment that often feels anything but safe.

A SANE exam is both medical and forensic, requiring careful documentation, evidence collection and a detailed understanding of the human body. At the same time, it requires patience, restraint and the ability to meet someone exactly where they are.

“The forensic part is another trauma,” Georgia says. “We have to return to the place where they were physically, but also in their mind. They are encouraged to tell the story over again which can be stressful.”

Survivors are given control over how much they share and how the exam proceeds.

“They can tell me, or they don’t have to,” Georgia says. “I don’t pry or cajole. If I realize it’s too big, I do what I can.”

That steadiness can be tested.

Patients may be overwhelmed, withdrawn or unable to engage at all.

“Compassion is everything in this situation. It’s not about me,” Georgia says. “This has to be one of the worst things people have been through and I understand that.”

Georgia didn’t set out to become a sexual assault nurse examiner. She was looking for a nursing position when someone asked if she’d be interested in something else. There was an opening and she said yes.

What surprised her most wasn’t the forensic work. It was how much it still felt like nursing.

Healing is helping women come back home to their bodies, their relationships and their sense of self without shame or apology.”

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“When a survivor walks through the door, I’m not thinking, ‘Here’s my next forensic exam,’” Georgia says.

“I’m thinking, ‘Here’s a person who has just experienced one of the most traumatic moments of their life and my job is to care for them.’”

Performing examinations is taxing enough, but Georgia also discovered a second calling as a sexual wellness counselor, work that draws from the same well but requires an entirely different skill set. SANE workers meet women in crisis; her wellness counseling helps women rebuild confidence, communication and their relationship with their own bodies.

As a wellness counselor, her clients include cancer patients relearning intimacy after treatment, survivors of sexual assault working toward healing on their own timeline and couples navigating disconnection.

One patient’s story has stayed with her: a young mother who survived cancer still didn’t feel like a survivor.

Everyone around her kept saying, ‘At least you’re alive.’ She already knew

that; she was grieving everything cancer had taken from her.

She had undergone a bilateral mastectomy. Chemotherapy, radiation and medications had changed her body. She couldn’t look at herself without seeing scars. Before cancer, certain sensations had been central to intimacy. Now they were gone. She told Georgia she felt sorry for her husband, not because he complained, but because she had decided for him how he must feel.

Healing happens in the presence of

dignity.

“Our first session wasn’t about sex,” Georgia says. “I use the initial visit to give women permission to grieve.

It’s important to grieve the old you, the way it was and the feeling that life is normal.”

They lived with losses most people try to rush past, then acknowledged that surviving cancer and grieving what cancer changed can exist at the same time.

“Those aren’t competing emotions,” Georgia says. “They’re both real and they exist at the same time.”

The young mom slowly learned to stop questioning what her body couldn’t do and started asking what it could. She started to laugh more after Georgia challenged her to learn from her 8-year-old daughter how to laugh at silly things. She allowed herself to be touched again. Eventually, intimacy became something she enjoyed instead of feared.

Another patient — a survivor of childhood sexual abuse — came to

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Georgia because she was unable to stay present during intimacy even though she was in a healthy relationship. There was nothing wrong with her body. Her mind simply had never felt safe enough to let it respond.

The issue wasn’t about performance; it was about safety, about separating the man standing in front of her from the person who hurt her years before.

“To someone else it might not sound remarkable,” Georgia says.

“But for a survivor, being fully present with someone who loves you can be an extraordinary act of courage.”

Examining traumatized patients taught Georgia that victims of sexual assault must feel emotionally safe before they can heal physically. She carries that knowledge into every wellness session.

“Healing happens in the presence of dignity,” Georgia says. “Whether I’m caring for someone after an assault or helping a woman rediscover intimacy after cancer, my goal is the same. I want her to feel seen, believed, respected and reminded that her experience matters.”

Both roles demand the same thing: showing up fully present, and without judgment, for whatever a person needs in that moment. A sexual assault nurse examiner meets women at their most broken. A sexual wellness counselor helps them find their way back to themselves.

“There are two worlds I walk in, and they are closer than people realize,” Georgia says. “I chose to exist in both worlds because survival is not the finish line.”

“Healing is helping women come back home to their bodies, their relationships and their sense of self without shame or apology.”

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WHERE

STEEL MEETS Bob Tucker and Aaron Crawford combine two very different crafts to create one-of-a-kind event pieces.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

hat do you get when you combine a florist and a welder?

Apparently, just about anything.

For years, Bob Tucker has been known throughout Lake and Sumter counties for transforming event spaces with flowers, décor and imaginative designs through Miss

Daisy’s Floral & Event Décor. Now, a partnership with Aaron Crawford of ALC Metal Creations is opening the door to custom-built pieces limited only by imagination.

From towering floral displays and suspended centerpieces to custom arches, balloon installations and one-of-a-kind event structures, the collaboration blends Bob’s decades of design experience with Aaron’s metalworking and fabrication skills.

“Between the 2 of us, there’s nothing that can’t be created from what you imagine,” Bob says.

The partnership began several years ago when Bob approached Aaron about creating decorative pieces for a convention.

“I welded on farm equipment, trailers, tractors, boats, none of

“Between the 2 of us, there’s nothing that can’t be created from what you imagine,” Bob says.

AARON CRAWFORD ALC METAL CREATIONS

BOB TUCKER MISS DAISY’S FLORAL & EVENT DÉCOR

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FROM CONCEPT TO MASTERPIECE

BEFORE AFTER this stuff,” says Aaron, a lifelong Lake County resident.

Aaron learned the basics of welding from his father and spent years building and repairing heavy-duty equipment before launching ALC Metal Creations. Self-taught beyond those fundamentals, he has spent the past 15 years honing his craft.

The collaboration began when Bob showed Aaron a floral armature he had been making by hand from curly willow branches.

The concept dated back several years to a wedding where Bob was tasked with creating an oversized bridal bouquet. Looking for a way to add dramatic scale without using countless additional stems, he attempted to develop a support structure.

“Aaron saw it and said, ‘I can make that,’” Bob recalls.

A trip to the hardware store followed and before long Crawford had transformed the handmade design into a welded metal framework that became what Tucker calls his “magic ring,” a floral armature intended to make designing bouquets easier and more versatile for both professional florists and beginners.

Today, Aaron builds everything from floral stands and arches to custom display structures that Bob can incorporate into weddings, galas, corporate events and large-scale celebrations.

One recent project involved six connected frames transformed into an 8-foot-tall balloon installation. Other pieces can support suspended floral arrangements, dramatic centerpieces or oversized event backdrops.

For Bob, the goal isn’t simply creating something beautiful. It’s creating pieces that can serve multiple purposes and help event professionals maximize their investment.

“It’s crazy to watch something you’ve done turn into what he can do with it,” Aaron says of Bob’s expertise with floral arrangements.

One of the partnership’s largest early projects involved producing dozens of custom stands for a major event on a tight deadline.

Working largely on his own, Aaron spent long days and late nights cutting, welding, grinding and painting to complete the order.

The finished result filled a massive event space with hundreds of decorated tables.

“If you dream about it and put it on paper and bring it to me, I’ll give it to you,” Aaron says.

The partnership also reflects the changing direction of Miss Daisy’s, which relocated from downtown Leesburg and now operates from an amazing 7,000-square-foot warehouse at 1600 2nd St just down the road.

The larger space provides room not only for floral production and event inventory, but also for design experimentation and fabrication built on collaboration in both metal and wood.

The customer envisions it, and together, Bob and Aaron create something guests may never forget.

Ideas often begin as sketches and conversations, with the two men spending days, sometimes weeks, defining concepts before anything is built.

“Bob’s great with what he does and I’m great at what I do, so in the end, it turns out to be perfect,” Aaron says.

W W W. A L C M E TA L C R E AT I O N S . C O M

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Sales Representative JESSE KNAPP Mike Killngsworth General Sales Manager TONY PAGANO AMADO VALENTIN I just want to say thank you Jesse Knapp and Plaza Cadillac again for making my purchase of this beautiful Escalade.

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AGENDA

EV EN TS CULTURE PEOPLE

ATTRACTIONS Discover the peaceful thrill of seeing Lake County from thousands of feet in the air.

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Sep. 2026

ONGOING EVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation.

EVERY WEEKEND

EVERY MONDAY

EVERY TUESDAY

EVERY THURSDAY

1ST FRIDAY

Lakeridge Winery presents: Weekends at the Winery 10am-5pm Sat 11am-5pm Sun 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

THE TO-DO LIST

EVENT

Loaded Weekend The Sumter County Super Show returns to the Sumter County Fairgrounds for Labor Day weekend with three days of antiques, arts and crafts, collectibles and one of Florida’s largest Second Amendment gun and knife shows.

Vendors from across the region fill the fairgrounds, making it a popular stop for bargain hunters, collectors and families looking to browse something different.

7620 SR 471, Bushnell / 352.569.6851 / nextlevelshows.com SEP

5-7

SEP

25

EVENT

FROM YES TO I DO

FESTIVAL

¡Olé!

The Venue Clermont’s Wedding Expo brings engaged couples and local wedding professionals together for a complimentary evening filled with inspiration, ideas and planning.

Attendees can meet florists, photographers, cake designers, honeymoon specialists, entertainers and décor experts while exploring ways to create their perfect wedding day.

Fiesta en la Plaza celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with an evening of authentic cuisine, live music, dancing and cultural activities in downtown Leesburg.

The annual celebration showcases the community’s diverse traditions while bringing families together for a festive night in Towne Square.

2400 S Hwy. 27, Bldg. 1-101, Clermont 4-8pm / thevenueclermont.com

500 W Main St., Leesburg 352.728.9885 / leesburgflorida.gov

SEP

10

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

SEP

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EVENT

SMOKE SIGNALS Pitmasters and Pourers brings beer, bacon, bourbon and barbecue to Mount Dora’s waterfront for a day of smoky flavors, live music and friendly competition. The annual festival pairs pitmasters with craft beverages in a lively outdoor setting overlooking Lake Dora.

Elizabeth Evans Park, 100 N Donnelly St., Mount Dora / 352.735.7183 cityofmountdora.com

sep.

SPIRITS IN THE PARLOR

9/12–10/4

Noël Coward’s classic comedy Blithe Spirit brings ghostly mischief to the Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse. When novelist Charles Condomine invites eccentric medium Madame Arcati to conduct a séance, she accidentally summons the ghost of his first wife wreaking havoc on Charles’ marriage to his second wife, Ruth, setting off a hilariously spirited battle between the living and the dead.

ON STAGE Enjoy quality entertainment on the many stages of Lake and Sumter counties.

SEASONS OF LOVE

9/11–10/4

“Rent” opens the Bay Street Players season with the Tony Award-winning rock musical that has inspired audiences for generations. The powerful production set in New York City’s East Village explores friendship, hope and resilience through an unforgettable score.

The State Theatre, 109 N Bay St., Eustis 352.357.7777 / baystreetplayers.org

The IceHouse Theatre, 1100 N Unser St., Mount Dora / 352.383.4616 / icehousetheatre.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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sep.JAMS Move to the beat of your favorite performers at these great concerts and local venues!

9/3 @ 7pm

9/16 @ 11am

MOTOWNERS Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford

SANDRA & ALEX LEKID Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/3 @ 4pm & 7pm

9/17 @ 7pm

ROCK OF ABBA Savannah Center, The Villages

TRIBUTE TO PINK FLOYD Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford

9/4 @ 4pm

9/21 @ 3pm

SAL & IZY Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

JERSEY FRANK Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/4 @ 7pm

9/24 @ 11am

THREE ON A STRING IN CONCERT The Sharon, The Villages

CORRIN FARRO Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/6 @ 12pm

9/25 @ 12pm

MATT CAPPS Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

CHARITY COX Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/6 @ 7pm

9/26 @ 7pm

THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Sharon, The Villages

TRIBUTE TO FOREIGNER JOURNEY AND CLASSIC LEGENDS Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

9/9 @ 4pm & 7pm BEE GEES NOW! Savannah Center, The Villages

9/26 @ 4pm BILLY BUCHANNAN Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/10 @ 3pm DALE STUMBO Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/28 @ 3pm TIM HARGIS Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/11 @ 4pm & 7pm THE FAST LANE – EAGLES TRIBUTE Savannah Center, The Villages

9/29 @ 3pm LAYLA BRISBOIS Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

9/12 @ 12pm ACOUSTIC BLUE Ednas’ on the Green, The Villages, Wildwood

10/2 @ 7pm

9/12 @ 7pm THE SEGER EXPERIENCE Savannah Center, The Villages

ZOSO, THE ULTIMATE LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont

Are you in a band and want to be included in our monthly calendar?

Email us at gina@akersmediagroup.com.

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)

LOCAL TALENT

PEO PLE

Coming Full Circle Single phrase sparked creative practice that reveals stories people carry within.

STORY: ROXANNA BATRIZ

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

WENDY ALSO P AIN LANDSC TS AP AND OT ES HE ORIGIN R AL WORKS .

endy Pablo wasn’t searching for a new artistic medium when an unfamiliar word suddenly entered her mind.

“I heard, ‘Paint Enso,’” she says.

There was only one problem.

“I thought, ‘What is Enso?’”

Wendy, who lives in The Plantation at Leesburg, had never heard the word before.

Curious, she searched it online and discovered an ancient Japanese art form centered around a single brushstroke painted in the shape of a circle.

Enso, traditionally associated with Zen philosophy, is often described as a reflection of mindfulness, self-expression and living in the present moment. The painted circle can be open or closed, bold or delicate, but no two are ever exactly alike.

The discovery felt like something bigger than coincidence.

“I thought, ‘Okay, Lord, it’s from you because I didn’t do anything to create it,” Wendy says. “I just kept going with it.”

That moment four years ago began what Wendy describes as her “Enso art journey.”

When introducing others to the practice, she encourages them to breathe, quiet their minds and focus on the present

moment right before painting their circles.

“There’s no need for perfection because beauty is in imperfection,” she says.

One woman recovering from two broken legs once painted a perfectly closed circle, calling it “Hope.”

“She felt trapped and said, ‘I hope to one day get my freedom again,’” Wendy recalls.

A man drew what Wendy describes as “a wobbly, crazylooking” circle.

“He said, ‘This is called windswept, because I was imagining myself on a boat with the wind going through my hair,’” says Wendy, adding that the man was completely bald and weeping while sharing his thoughts.

Experiences like that continue to wow her, reinforcing what she loves most about Enso. Every participant starts with the same task of painting a circle, but the finished pieces often reveal something deeply personal.

Some circles reflect peace.

Others represent healing, patience or life’s ups and downs.

Each one becomes a snapshot of a person’s thoughts and emotions in that moment.

“Everybody’s got a story,” she says. “It’s compelling seeing all the different emotions and things brewing in each heart.”

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

ROXANNA BATRIZ

V I S UA L LY E N G AG I N G D E S I G N • T E C H N I CA L LY S U P E R I O R D E V E L O P M E N T

we just create better websites

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akersmediagroup.com | 352.787.4112

ATTRACTIONS

AIR RAREFIED

Trade traffic lights for treetops and discover Lake County from 3,500 feet up.

STORY: GINA HORAN PHOTOS: GINA HORAN AND PROVIDED

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housands of feet above Central Florida, the world grows quiet. Among the clouds, familiar places become smaller, quieter and easier to understand.

At Paradise Airsports in Groveland, tandem hang gliding reveals a side of Lake County few locals ever see. Highways become ribbons, thousands of lakes connect like puzzle pieces and neighborhoods give way to forests and farmland stretching for miles in every direction.

To get there, The Dragonfly tow plane steadily pulls the glider skyward until the release. Then, almost instantly, the buzz of the engine disappears. What’s left is the sound of the wind and an

uninterrupted view of Lake County unfolding below.

While many people associate hang gliding with adrenaline, instructor Eric Williams says the experience is far more peaceful than expected.

“Most people aren’t afraid of heights,” Eric says. “They’re afraid of falling.”

That’s why tandem flights are designed to introduce newcomers to the sport alongside a certified instructor.

“Watching apprehension give way to wonder is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

-ERIC WILLIAMS

“Every flight includes professional instruction and safety equipment, allowing passengers to focus less on fear and more on the experience itself,” he says.

For Eric, hang gliding isn’t about chasing thrills.

It’s about finding stillness.

He describes it as the closest thing to flying like a bird, quietly searching for rising columns of warm air called thermals that keep the glider aloft. Finding the next one requires patience, timing and strategy, a challenge he compares to playing chess in the sky.

Paradise Airsports has introduced visitors to flight for more than 40 years, continuing a tradition that has made Groveland one of the country’s best-known destinations for hang gliding.

Through aero towing, pilots experience one of the most effective ways

to fly in Florida’s flat landscape, where thermals and open skies create ideal conditions for soaring.

Today, the 150-acre property offers more than tandem flights and flight instruction, hosting national hang gliding competitions, aviation fly-ins, festivals and community events while welcoming visitors from around the world who want to experience one of Florida’s most unique outdoor adventures.

Eric maintains that introducing first-time flyers to the sport never gets old.

“Watching apprehension give way to wonder is one of the most rewarding parts of the job,” he says. “Especially after the towline releases and the silence takes over.”

Think you know the landscape? Add a little altitude and you’ll see Lake County like never before.

Paradise Airsports 6548 Groveland Airport Rd., Groveland | 352.429.0210 paradiseairsports.com

IF YOU STAY GROUNDED: Not everyone comes to Paradise Airsports to fly. The 150-acre property also offers RV sites, primitive camping, clubhouse accommodations and a private lake for kayaking, canoeing and catch-and-release fishing.

Visitors can relax beneath the oak trees, enjoy a lakeside picnic or simply watch hang gliders, ultralights and tow planes take to the skies throughout the day.

Paradise Airsports also hosts national hang gliding competitions, aviation flyins, music festivals, hot air balloon events, weddings and private gatherings, making it a destination worth visiting even if your feet never leave the ground.

Know a cool place you’d like us to feature?

Send details to gina@akersmediagroup.com.

GINA HORAN

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A Beautiful Smile IS POWERFUL!

Protect Your Skin.

Wollenschlaeger Orthodontics GIVES YOU THE CONFIDENCE TO KEEP

smiling

Dr. Chris Wollenschlaeger

Dr. Dave Wollenschlaeger

352.787.6800 DRDAVEORTHO.COM 33050 PROFESSIONAL DRIVE, LEESBURG

Call To Schedule Your Free Skin Cancer Screening!

(352) 622-5183 | OcalaEye.com

YOUR LOCAL EYECARE EXPERTS

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME !

With 3 offices and a NEW surgery center, expert care has never been more convenient.

The Villages Office 1950 Laurel Manor Drive Suite 250 The Villages, FL 32162

Spanish Plaines Office 1556 Bella Cruz Drive The Villages, FL 32159

Fenney Office 4508 Warm Springs Ave. Wildwood, FL 34785

Ocala Eye Surgery Center at Wildwood 3102 County Rd. 507 Wildwood, FL 34785

EYE EXAMS | CATARACT SURGERY | REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE LASIK | EYELID SURGERY | CORNEA | GLAUCOMA OPTICAL | HEARING | AESTHETICS

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Wildwood 352.768.7546 9668 N. US Hwy. 301, Suite 100 Peppertree Plaza Wildwood, FL 34785

building unique pools

“They built the pool to perfection, and the finished design was better than we ever imagined. The superintendent was willing to answer all our questions before, during, and after the project. Although we have been swimming in the pool for three months, we can still call him with any questions. Wiseman Pools went above and beyond, and the pool is functional and works like we want it to.”

—SCOTT STEPHENS

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

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SPORTSHUB S T UDEN TS Sponsored by

C OACH ES T EAM S

SPORTS FEATURE For twins Noah and Landon Mauriell, sibling rivalry fuels a relentless, yet loving race to the top.

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FEMALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE

KATE GUTHRIE

Mount Dora runner vaults toward one final state appearance.

STORY AND PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON

PERFORMANCE PROFILE Long Jump: 5.35 meters Pole Vault: 3.20 meters High Jump: 1.52 meters 100 meter hurdles: 15.99 seconds

2024 State Championship Medalist pole vault

2026 State Championship Qualifier long jump

2025 State Championship Qualifier high jump and pole vault

MDHS Coaches Award 2024, Most Improved 2025, MVP 2026

Getting started: My whole life I had been extremely active and when I started high school, I tried track and it just fit. I have been competing in it for three years now and really enjoy the range of events that you can compete in.

Greatest sports achievement: Qualifying for State Championship the past three years of high school and becoming MVP my junior year.

Future goals: For my senior year I want to keep building and improving in all my events so I can make it to the State Championship

one last time. Beyond that, I want to pursue track and field in college while majoring in biology so I can eventually enter medical school.

Pre-game ritual: I listen to 80’s music while drinking a smoothie and eating a protein bar on the way to the track meet.

For fun: I have a big, close-knit family so when I am not competing, we spend a lot of time together watching movies, cooking, eating and playing games. More than anything, I value my relaxation and alone time. This is when I turn on

School: Mount Dora High Grade: Senior

Age: 17

Sports: Track, Long Jump, High Jump, 100 Meter Hurdles, Pole Vault

The Office and spend quality time with my four dogs.

Go-to meal: Chicken and pasta.

Biggest inspiration: Tara DavisWoodall. She is the Olympic and World Champion in long jump. I love watching her for her hard work, grit and positive spirit.

My message: YOLO - you only live once so you can’t be worried about failing or fixate on what other people think.

Fun fact: I can do a backflip.

Know a talented student/athlete? Fill us in!

Email your recommendations to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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CINDY PETERSON

Y O U R T R U S T E D D E S T I N AT I O N FOR CHEVROLET SALES AND S E RV I C E I N C E N T R A L F LO R I DA , B A C K E D B Y N E A R LY F O U R D E C A D E S O F F A M I LY - O W N E D INTEGRITY AND CARE.

MAKE THE SCHOOL RUN A CHEVY RUN

H W Y 4 4 1 , E U S T I S F L 3 2 7 2 6 | V G C H E V Y. C O M | 3 5 2 . 3 4 3 . 2 4 0 0

MALE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE

Coy Sizemore Southeast Christian sharpshooter builds on record-setting career.

STORY: CINDY PETERSON

≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL

PERFORMANCE PROFILE • School record: 7 three-pointers in a game

School: Southeast Christian College

• 2021-22 FACA (Florida Athletic Coaches Association) 2A District Player of the Year

Sport: Basketball Grade: Sophomore Position: Point Guard

• 2023-24 FACA All Academic 4A District 7 Player of the Year

Jersey Number: 12 Age: 19

• 2024-25 FACA 4A District 7 Player of the Year • 2025-26 NSAC (New South Atlantic Conference) All-Academic Team

Getting started: My dad played when he was younger and then he coached me at the YMCA, so I grew up around it. I’ve been playing for 16 years since I was 3.

Greatest sports achievement: 1,900+ career points.

Future goals: I would like to be a part of leading my team to win a conference championship.

Go-to meal: Ground beef and rice bowl.

Legacy I want to leave: That I am a hard worker and a leader.

After basketball: I am working towards getting my degree and eventually owning my own business.

Favorite professional player: Tyrese Maxey Hidden talent: I am a good cook.

Pre-game ritual:

For fun: I enjoy

going fishing on my boat and playing video games.

Saying a pre-game prayer and listening to “Cold December”

by Rod Wave.

Know a talented student/athlete? Fill us in!

Email your recommendations to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

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

CINDY PETERSON

Congratulations!

2026 MIRROR BALL WINNER

Thank you to everyone who joined us on July 31 and August 1 to cheer on our local celebrity dancers! Together, we raised over $258,000 in support of the Lake County School District—helping us exceed our $350,000 fundraising goal. A very special congratulations to our Rising Star Dancer, Dr. Stephanie Luke, for taking home the 2026 Mirror Ball Trophy!

DR. STEPHANIE LUKE

READ MORE:

LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS

Join Us!

ROBOTICS SCRIMMAGE Lake Minneola High School

October 17, 2026

Scott A. Strong Memorial Golf Tournament

October 9, 2026

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

SPORTING FEATURE

DOUBLE

D R I V E Competition fuels twin brothers Noah and Landon Mauriell on field and in classroom.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

F

or most siblings, competition is inevitable but for twin brothers Noah and Landon Mauriell, it’s become a way of life.

The 17-year-old twins have spent nearly every stage of life pushing each other to be better on the cross-country course, soccer field, tennis court and in the classroom, where they strive for the top spot in their senior class at First Academy-Leesburg.

Their athletic journey began when they were just 3 years old, kicking a soccer ball around together. They’re still teammates nearly 15 years later, but now they’re also leaders on campus, standout student/athletes among the top academic performers in their graduating class.

“We’ve always played together,” Landon says.

That familiarity produces something special whenever they suit up to represent their school in athletics.

“It’s kind of nice we know each other really well,” Noah says.

“Especially with team sports like soccer, we’ve been playing together so long, so we kind of just know what the other one is going to do.”

Soccer is their longest-running sport, but cross country produced one of their proudest moments.

The twins helped lead First Academy’s boys cross country team to its first-ever regional qualification in school history. Noah had previously qualified individually, but advancing alongside his teammates

made the accomplishment even more meaningful.

“It was really cool because my team came as well with me,” Noah says.

Both brothers consistently finish as the team’s top two runners in a friendly rivalry that pushes each of them forward.

“It’s always competition between us,” Landon says.

That competitive drive extends far beyond athletics.

The brothers completed more than a year of college coursework through dual enrollment and are competing alongside one other First Academy student for valedictorian honors.

Their mother, Tiffany, says the motivation has always come from within.

“I’ve never had to say, ‘Do your homework,’” she says. “They just have that motivation to do well in whatever they do.”

Both students have embraced leadership opportunities outside the classroom and athletic venues.

Noah serves as Student Body President, Senior Class Vice President and is a member of both the National Honor Society and National Hispanic Honor Society.

Landon is Senior Class Treasurer and secretary of the Key Club, participates in Student Government and is a member of the National Honor Society and National Hispanic Honor Society.

Their parents have encouraged their sons to pursue excellence while still enjoying high school, which allows

IT’S KIND OF NICE WE KNOW EACH OTHER REALLY WELL. ESPECIALLY WITH TEAM SPORTS LIKE SOCCER, WE’VE BEEN PLAYING TOGETHER SO LONG, SO WE JUST KIND OF KNOW WHAT THE OTHER ONE IS GOING TO DO. — NOAH MAURIELL

FUN

FACT

THE BOYS HAVE VISITED 13 COUNTRIES AND 36 STATES

BY THE NUMBERS

17 YEARS OLD 3 SPORTS 2 FLORIDA ACADEMIC SCHOLARS 4.4 GPAS

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them to balance academics, athletics and family life.

The Mauriells enjoy traveling together, having visited 13 countries and 36 states, experiences they say broadened their perspectives beyond the classroom.

Both earned the Florida Academic Scholars Award, scholarships that will cover college tuition and fees as they study in the medical field at the University of Central Florida.

While they aren’t certain they’ll play collegiate athletics, they know the discipline they’ve developed

through sports will follow them wherever they go.

The twins credit First Academy’s coaches and teachers for helping shape their experience, especially Athletic Director Don Birdsall and Head Soccer Coach Scott VanDyken.

“I don’t have a bad thing to say about any of them,” Noah says. “They’re really great teachers and mentors.”

Their father, Jason, says their greatest accomplishment isn’t related to trophies, records or class rankings.

And although they’ve spent a lifetime challenging each other to reach new

heights, the greatest measure of their success will always be the character they display long after the final race is run and the last game played.

“Their competitiveness, discipline and desire to excel are certainly a big part of their story, but Tiffany and I also feel strongly that their faith has been the foundation underneath all of it,” Jason says. “They have been raised to understand that their identity and worth are rooted in Christ and that their gifts and abilities are meant to be used to honor Him and serve others.”

ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP Noah serves as Student Body President, Senior Class Vice President and is a member of both the National Honor Society and National Hispanic Honor Society. Landon serves as Senior Class Treasurer, secretary of the Key Club, participates in Student Government and is a member of the National Honor Society and National Hispanic Honor Society.

MENU

F OOD DRIN KS REVI EWS

IN THE KITCHEN Fresh and flavorful, Le’ahi’s Hawaiianinspired menu gives plant-based eating a delicious tropical twist.

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IN THE KITCHEN

RECIPE

P L A N T- P O W E R E D

PARADISE Hawaiian-inspired café in The Villages changes lives with whole-food cooking and the spirit of aloha.

STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON

vibrant Hawaiian atmosphere greets guests at Le'ahi (lay-ahhee) Health Café in The Villages, where they believe that food has the power to nourish the body, mind and spirit.

That philosophy began more than 14 years ago in Honolulu, Hawaii, where Jason Coleman founded Le'ahi Health.

"Jason created the original blueprint for what Le'ahi represents," says owner Tweet Coleman, who brought the concept to Florida. “It’s delicious whole-food, plant-based meals that help people enjoy eating healthy."

Rather than reinventing the restaurant, Tweet saw herself as carrying her son's vision to a new audience.

"When I opened Le'ahi Health Café in The Villages, I wasn't starting from scratch,” she says.

“I was building upon Jason's vision and bringing the spirit of aloha to Florida.”

As an educator who has spent years teaching brain enrichment classes, Tweet believes every

conversation about food is really a conversation about lifelong health.

"The brain is part of the body," she says. "If we want a healthy brain, we also need a healthy body."

That belief shapes everything Le'ahi does. Instead of promoting restrictive diets or making people feel guilty about what they eat, the café encourages guests to simply begin adding more whole foods to their plates.

Every conversation eventually comes back to education. Ask Tweet about kale, tofu or a smoothie ingredient and before long she's talking about brain health, longevity and giving people the confidence to make healthier choices without fear or confusion.

"People are overwhelmed," she says. "Every week there seems to be a new diet, a new headline or someone telling them what they shouldn't eat."

Her advice is to focus on vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds, but the café’s goal is to help people eat more plants and discover how enjoyable healthy food can be.

"Progress is more important than perfection," Tweet says.

Manager Melissa Guilloty is living proof that healthy eating can change more than a menu.

"Food is more than fuel. It is information for every cell in our body. Every meal is an opportunity to invest in our future health. Every bite is either feeding health or feeding disease. Choose wisely and enjoy the journey.”

—TWEET COLEMAN

"What started as a job I needed became a place where I've grown tremendously," Melissa says.

Lessons naturally followed her home as she immersed herself in plant-based cooking each day.

"I've always loved learning, especially about food and how to take better care of myself and the people I love," she says. "That's when I realized what I was learning at work was becoming part of who I was outside of work, too."

Melissa says one of the biggest misconceptions she encounters is that healthy food sacrifices flavor.

"There’s something special about watching someone try something they were sure they wouldn’t like and seeing their reaction when it’s actually delicious," she says. "I love changing someone's mind with one

S E P ' 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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IN THE KITCHEN

bite instead of trying to convince them with a lecture."

Melissa says those reactions happen regularly.

Customers who insist they don't like kale often discover they enjoy it in Le'ahi's smoothies, salads and tacos.

Others who avoid tofu leave surprised by how much flavor it absorbs when paired with fresh vegetables, herbs and house-made sauces.

"Don't judge a food until you've tasted it prepared the Le'ahi way," Tweet says.

Inspired by the flavors of Hawaii and built around whole-food, plant-based ingredients, the menu offers colorful bowls, tacos, salads, flatbreads, soups, smoothies and specialty drinks that prove healthy eating can be both satisfying and approachable.

Signature creations like the beet poke bowl put a plant-based spin on a Hawaiian favorite with steamed beets, tofu, brown rice, avocado, house-made teriyaki and shoyu dressings. Guests can customize salads, tacos or grain bowls with fresh kale, red cabbage, carrots and cucumbers, then choose from house dressings ranging from ginger tahini and cilantro lime to maple mustard.

Flatbreads topped with avocado, pesto or hummus offer lighter fare.

Rotating soups and pizzas round out the menu.

Smoothies remain one of Le'ahi's biggest draws. Tropical combinations featuring acai, pineapple, banana and coconut share the menu with nutrient-packed blends incorporating spinach, ginger, turmeric, spirulina and kombucha on tap.

Melissa says Le'ahi is developing cooking classes for this fall and beginning work on a colorful children's book introducing young readers to food, nutrition, ingredients and simple recipes.

Tweet hopes people leave Le'ahi inspired, not necessarily to become vegan, but to make one healthier choice than they did yesterday.

The same philosophy inspired her book, “Nourish to Flourish,” which shares recipes, nutrition insights and practical ways to incorporate more whole, plant-based foods into everyday life.

"Food is more than fuel,” she says.

“It is information for every cell in our body. Every meal is an opportunity to invest in our future health. Every bite is either feeding health or feeding disease. Choose wisely and enjoy the journey.”

Carrot Cake INGREDIENTS:

3c

One Healthy Choice Changed Everything Don Bruessel knew something had to change when his weight hit 286 pounds.

Living with fatty liver disease, prediabetes and high cholesterol, the 69-year-old Villages resident began learning about wholefood, plant-based eating through Tweet.

Tweet encouraged Don to join a local whole-food, plant-based club weight-loss challenge.

He won.

Today, Don weighs 217 pounds and says the transformation

has gone far beyond the number on the scale.

"My fatty liver's gone and no more pre-diabetes,” he says.

Extra energy has changed his everyday life. Once a self-described "couch potato," Don now walks golf courses he once struggled to finish.

"She got me off the couch," he says of Tweet.

Don has also embraced plantbased cooking at home and enjoys encouraging others beginning their own health transformations. He even has his own VIP table at Le’ahi.

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

carrots

1c

Medjool dates

3 4

/ c

coconut flakes

1 tsp

cinnamon

1c

walnuts

/ c

almond dust

1 4

Cashew Cream INGREDIENTS:

1c

soaked cashews

1 2

/ c

coconut milk

1 tsp

vanilla

DIRECTIONS:

2 Tbsp

maple syrup

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until the mixture comes together. Shape together into a circle, like a cake. Spread cashew cream over top like icing. Dust with almonds for garnish.

1 Tbsp

lemon juice

1 tsp

lemon zest

DIRECTIONS:

Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

"Don't judge a food until you've tasted it prepared the Le'ahi way.”

—TWEET COLEMAN

Lemony Chickpea Soup INGREDIENTS:

3c

cooked (soaked) chickpeas*

2 Tbsp

tomato paste

1 2

/ c

nutritional yeast

6

garlic cloves, minced

1

onion, diced

5-6

carrots, diced

1 tsp

turmeric

2 tsp

Italian seasoning

pinch

salt

pinch

black pepper

pinch

red pepper flakes

1 2

/ c

cooked brown rice

4c

vegetable broth

1 2

/ c

oat milk

1 2

/ c

olive oil

2

pita slices, for serving dill to taste juice of 2 lemons, divided zest of 2 lemons, divided handful of spinach, roughly chopped microgreens, for garnish

*Equivalent to about two 15-ounce cans of chickpeas.

Summer Salad INGREDIENTS:

Beets DIRECTIONS:

Carrots Cabbage Kale Green papaya Green onion Tofu

DIRECTIONS:

Sauté carrots and onion in olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper until onions are golden. Add the garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, turmeric, rice, and 1 1/2 cups of chickpeas. Stir until the tomato paste coats rice and chickpeas.

Pour in vegetable broth. Add half of the lemon juice, half of lemon zest, and half of dill. Simmer until the rice is tender. Blend remaining 1 1/2 cups chickpeas with oat milk, nutritional yeast, remaining lemon juice, remaining lemon zest until very smooth. Stir blended mixture into the soup. Turn off heat and fold in chopped spinach and remaining dill. Serve topped with microgreens and two pita slices on the side.

Avocado Walnuts Furikake Teriyaki dressing

Toss beets, carrots, cabbage, kale, green onion, green papaya and tofu with teriyaki dressing. Plate salad, top with sliced avocado, sprinkle with walnuts and furikake, and finish with another drizzle of dressing.

IF YOU GO

LE'AHI HEALTH CAFE 1016 Old Mill Run, The Villages 808.600.1010 leahihealthtv.com Hours: 8am-6pm Daily

Hey, readers! Do you have favorite recipes or know a chef we should profile?

Comment on this article or send story ideas to cindy@akersmediagroup.com.

CINDY PETERSON

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

/ 103

FORK ON THE ROAD

REVIEW

Healthier Ever After Fresh ingredients and smart cooking prove healthy food can still be delicious.

STORY: GINA HORAN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL AND PROVIDED

fter decades of comfort foods like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy and dessert, many seniors aren’t looking for someone to reinvent the menu.

Yet nutrition becomes more important than ever as we age.

The right balance of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help support muscle, energy, brain health and the independence that allows older adults to continue enjoying life on their own terms.

Most seniors understand the benefits of healthy eating but find it difficult to change their eating habits.

Deborah Rivera, campus dining service director at Sumter Senior Living in The Villages, doesn’t try to convince people that healthy food is important. Instead, she serves healthy food that feels familiar and tastes good.

“When you say ‘healthy,’ ‘sugar free’ or ‘low sodium,’ people put up a wall,”

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

says Deborah. “So, I decided to stop saying it and just started doing it.”

That philosophy shapes how the campus kitchen operates. Rather than asking residents to give up the meals they’ve enjoyed for decades, Deborah and her team quietly make them healthier.

“When you say ‘healthy,’ ‘sugar free’ or ‘low sodium,’ people put up a wall. So, I decided to stop saying it and just started doing it.”

— Deborah Rivera Salt is replaced by fresh herbs that deliver the same depth of flavor without the sodium. Sugar gives way to honey whenever possible.

Canned vegetables never make an

appearance. Instead, the kitchen staff serves fresh or flash-frozen vegetables, steamed to order to preserve both flavor and nutrients.

And the culinary team grills (instead of frying) meats sourced from a local butcher. The beloved whipped cream,

a dining room favorite, is completely sugar-free and no one is the wiser.

The goal isn’t to surprise residents with unfamiliar ingredients or trendy recipes; it’s to serve recognizable comfort foods prepared with healthier techniques and fresher ingredients.

The residents are perfectly happy with the results. Deborah jokes it’s almost a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.

“They just know they love what we cook for them,” Deborah says.

“And they get choices, which is so important to their independence and dignity.”

Those choices aren’t accidental.

A resident food committee helps shape the weekly menus. Residents choose the meals they want and Deborah’s team prepares the dishes in ways that support better nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Presentation plays an important role as well. A colorful plate of fresh vegetables, grilled meats and thoughtfully prepared sides doesn’t need a health disclaimer. Good food speaks for itself, especially when it looks as good as it tastes.

For Deborah, healthy cooking has never been about taking something away. It’s about adding fresh ingredients, better techniques and a little creativity to recipes people already love.

The philosophy reaches beyond any single dining room. Healthy eating for older adults doesn’t have to mean deprivation, lectures or giving up lifelong favorites. Sometimes it simply means making small changes that quietly add up over time.

“When you cook with love,” Deborah says, “you can use any ingredient you want.”

THE DRIGGS RESTAURANT AT SUMTER SENIOR LIVING THE VILLAGES 1490 Killingsworth Way, The Villages 352.580.6916

SMART SWAPS can be made in a larger culinary space as well as your own kitchen.

INSTEAD OF SALT:

• Fresh herbs — rosemary, thyme, basil, oregano • Garlic and onion powder • Lemon or citrus juice • Vinegar — apple cider or balsamic • Spice blends without added sodium INSTEAD OF SUGAR:

• Honey • Pure maple syrup • Dates or date paste • Unsweetened applesauce in baking • Vanilla extract to enhance natural sweetness

• Ripe bananas in baked goods INSTEAD OF SATURATED FAT:

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo • Avocado instead of butter in baking • Unsweetened applesauce instead of oil in baking • Steaming or grilling instead of frying • Low-sodium broth for sautéing instead of butter or oil • Pureed white beans to thicken soups and sauces

Let’s do lunch or dinner!

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

GINA HORAN

S E P ' 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

Gator’s Dockside

1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.242.1825

Goomba’s Pizzeria 2395 S Hwy. 27 352.989.4403

Guru Indian Restaurant

2400 S Hwy. 27, Ste. 101 352.241.9884

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards 19239 US Hwy. 27 352.394.8627

OakWood Smokehouse & Grill 230 Citrus Tower Blvd.

352.394.0036

YUMMI’S Frozen Yogurt and Café 650 8th St. 352.243.4529

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

F RU I T LA N D PA R K

Mystic Ice Cream 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

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

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 and 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. 441 352.729.6911

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

Creative sandwiches, craft beer and lively events make Barrels & Boards a Groveland favorite.

This Groveland gathering spot, known for approximately 50 rotating craft beers, wine flights and build-your-own charcuterie boards, has evolved into much more than a neighborhood bar. Creative offerings, such as the TurkBrie, beef & bacon jam and ham & gator sandwiches, share the menu with flatbreads, Bavarian pretzel sticks, fresh salads and shareable boards. Live music, trivia, bingo and karaoke keep the calendar full, while the spacious patio makes it an easy choice for date nights or evenings with friends.

Barrels & Boards / 7965 State Road 50, Suite A500, Groveland / 352.557.5007 / barrelsandboardsfl.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 19 352.589.2535

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

S E P ' 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.

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

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

Compassionate Pet Care From Your Other Family Doctor!

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

Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver

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

BEHIND THE BAR

SPIRITS

PROOF POSITIVE Prime + Ember proves great cocktails don’t need alcohol to deliver flavor and a memorable dining experience.

STORY: GINA HORAN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL

or those who don’t drink, can’t drink or simply take an occasional self-imposed exile from alcohol, the options out in the wild have long been disappointing.

At Prime + Ember in Eastport, a juice and soda mixture with a lime garnish no longer cuts it.

Prime + Ember’s zero-proof menu offers drinks like Retirement Dreams, Lavender Lemon Fizz and even an Espresso Martini Zero. You’d never guess they were booze-free.

General manager Matthew Langler understands that the reasons someone reaches for a zero-proof menu are as varied as the guests themselves: conscious sobriety, pregnancy, being the designated driver or simply a teenager at the table who deserves something better than a sad Shirley Temple.

“We’re all about the experience for all of our guests,” says Matthew. “It seems natural to include everyone

and make them feel at home and not left out.”

That approach is a genuine success.

“I can tell they are looking at that zero-proof menu because their faces light up,” says bartender Belle Jacobsen. “They’re so relieved not only because we have that option, but because the recipes are designed for excellent flavor.”

Zero-proof spirits aren’t simply alcohol-free versions of liquor. Many are crafted from botanicals, herbs, spices, citrus peels and natural extracts designed to recreate the complexity and mouthfeel of traditional spirits.

Brands such as Seedlip, Ritual Zero Proof and Lyre’s have become staples, giving bartenders the tools to build sophisticated cocktails that rival their spirited counterparts in flavor, balance and presentation.

It may cost more than a plain lemonade, but it’s worth it.

Pseudo Hugo A light, refreshing zero-proof with delicate floral notes, sweet peach, fresh mint and sparkling soda.

1 oz

non-alcoholic elderflower spirit

12

/ oz

peach purée

14

/ oz

fresh lime juice

6

fresh mint leaves

splash chilled soda water, to top Add mint leaves, non-alcoholic elderflower spirit and peach purée to a mixing glass. Gently muddle the ingredients to release the mint’s fresh aroma without over-bruising the leaves. Add fresh lime juice, then fill glass with ice. Top with chilled soda water. Gently stir to combine. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig or a lime wheel and serve immediately.

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

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

GINA HORAN

US PRESSURE CLEAN

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FINAL THOUGHT

Aspiratio nal

The Path Forward My next adventure: making sure there are more adventures.

STORY AND PHOTO: GINA HORAN

was born in 1966, the Year of the Fire Horse.

According to Chinese astrology, people born in ’66 are independent, adventurous and spirited. In Japan, the superstition was so strong that the birth rate actually dropped because families didn’t want daughters born under that sign.

That tracks.

For most of my life I’ve operated on what I now affectionately call the “hit by a bus” philosophy. Tomorrow wasn’t guaranteed, so why not enjoy today? Eat the great meal. Take the trip. Change majors. Change careers.

Fall in love with a city. Fall in love. Get dumped. Fall in love again.

It’s been a devil-may-care hot air balloon ride and I didn’t particularly care where I landed as long as it was fun, a little naughty and I made it out alive.

Then I woke up one day and realized that on September 1, I will be two years away from qualifying for Social Security.

At 60, I finally landed the job I’d spent decades dreaming about. But it eluded me because I spent so much time chasing experiences instead of climbing a career ladder. Turns out I’m a late bloomer and late is better than never. Since it worked for Julia Child, I may be able to squeeze out a few more years.

The funny thing about finally building a life you love is that you suddenly want to hang on to it for a while.

My 86-year-old Uncle Jack still plays softball, leads kayak tours and cycles because, as far as he’s concerned, that’s simply what the day calls for.

“Whatever you do, keep moving,” he always says.

Longevity isn’t something we stumble into. It’s something we quietly earn, not with one grand decision, but with hundreds of ordinary ones. A walk instead of sitting on the couch.

Choosing a Pilates class instead of another excuse.

Keep moving.

I’ve always said yes to life and I think my positive nature has served me well. Now I’m learning that embracing life also means taking care of the life you’re embracing.

There are trails to hike, stories to write and countries I’d still like to visit. And if I play my cards right, there’s another adventure waiting somewhere in my distant future . . . as long as I keep moving.

Hey, readers! Is there a particular subject that you would like me to write a commentary about? Tell me, via email at gina@akersmediagroup.com.

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

GINA HORAN

A Lasting Memory It is our goal to help you say goodbye to your special friend in the most caring and understanding way.

“A way to provide the respect and loyalty after death that your pet freely gave in life”

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Crematory Director

Central Florida Pet Crematory has been serving Lake and Marion Counties since 2002.

352.307.2256 // 10725 SE 36th Ave www.cflpetcrematory.com

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N E X T G E N E R AT I O N L E A D E R OF THE Y E AR 2024

Center of Excellence

A L E X I S B O W H AY, PA A F FA M F E L L O W S H I P TR AINED INJECTOR

2018 - 2025

winner!

BEST FACIAL PL A STIC SURGEON

DA N N Y S OA R E S , M D B O A R D C E R T I F I E D FA C I A L PLASTIC SURGEON

T H A N K YO U F O R E N T R U S T I N G U S W I T H YO U R C A R E F O R OV E R A D E C A D E . S C H E D U L E YO U R F R E E C O N S U LTAT I O N TO DAY !

3 52 . 2 59. 8 59 9 | W W W. P L A S T I C S U R G E RY V I P.C O M 6 07 C R 4 6 6 A , F R U I T L A N D PA R K

winner!

AESTHETIC PROVIDER OF THE Y E AR 2024

L A R RY B L E V I N S , PA , A L S M S MA STER INJECTOR TR AINER

BEST OF THE

HOT

LIST

WINNER