The Villages edition of STYLE, February 2014

thehomeissue this issue is definitely something to write home about!

February

2014

Featuring

building smart joe ziler shows how kevco is changing the homebuilding industry with cost-effective, energy smart homes

parade of homes enjoy the hottest trends in home design

Chronic knee pain?

You wouldn’t total your car after a mere fender bender.

So why total your knee?

Why undergo a total knee replacement if only a small portion of your knee is arthritic? That’s the beauty of a partial knee replacement performed by Dr. Kerina of the Tri County Orthopaedic Center. Dr. Kerina is a national leader in the innovation and development of partial knee replacements. The procedure leaves all the normal knee ligaments and

tendons intact and resurfaces only the damaged cartilage and bone thereby leaving up to 70% of the knee in it’s natural state.

This allows for vastly shortened recovery time and significantly improved patient satisfaction through the restoration of normal knee bio-mechanics. Dr. Kerina designed the Uni Path program which is

the nations first outpatient partial knee replacement program to help hundreds of patients get back to their active lifestyle without a hospital stay.

Don’t total your knee without exploring viable options like the partial knee replacement. For an appointment call Dr. Kerina 352-787-9141.

J. Mandume Kerina, M.D.

352-787-9141

Pain Free Outpatient Partial Knee Replacement, the future of Knee Replacement Surgery.

National Leader and #1 Surgeon for Zimmer/ZUK Partial Knee Replacements*

*J. Mandume Kerina, M.D. - Surgeon for Zimmer/ZUK Partial Knee Replacment and NAtional Leader in Outpatent Partial Knee Replacement and Most Requested by Zimmer for Surgeon to Surgeon Training

Faster. Safer. C learer.

we’ve gone DIGITAL.

Florida Hospital Waterman and Center for Medical Imaging are proud to announce that all of our X-Rays are now digital, allowing us to better serve our community’s imaging needs through faster service, less radiation dose to the patient, and superior image quality.

Digital Radiology (DR) is a superior method for X-Rays than conventional CR (Computed Radiographs) offered at most imaging centers.

It’s also better for our patients – the dose of radiation per image is much lower (in most cases, approximately ½ the dose of conventional X-Ray procedures), and since results are immediately viewable and easier to analyze, our Expert Radiologists can spend more time concentrating on what the patient needs and collaborate with other doctors even more quickly than before. The X-Rays take much less time to perform, providing another benefit to our patients.

We’re proud of and excited for this important step that keeps us on – and ahead of – the cutting edge of imaging in Lake County. We are the only facilities in Lake County to offer this newest technology to all of our inpatients and outpatients receiving X-Rays.

Diagnostic Services 1000 WATERMAN WAY, TAVARES 352.253.3700 • www.fhwat.org

1922 SALK AVENUE, TAVARES 352.253.6363

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“After having a peripheral nerve stimulator implanted, my pain has been decreased by 85 percent. I am no longer on pain medication and muscle relaxers.

Dr. Pyles is excellent, and I’ve recommended him to friends.”

“They do not get any better than Dr. Pyles. He has helped reduce the nerve pain in my legs by 70 percent. He is a great doctor who listens carefully to his patients and addresses their concerns. He is a top-notch doctor and friend.”

—MELISSA HOLYCROSS, OCALA`

—STEVE CARROLL, OCALA

Pain is inevitable, suffering

“Dr. Pyles is a miracle worker. I have spinal stenosis and thought I would live with leg pain for the rest of my life. He implanted a spinal cord stimulator and gave me my life back.

He is a wonderful doctor.”

—PAM COOK, OCALA

Stephen T. Pyles, M.D.

is optional

Pain Treatment Centers of Florida 2300 S. Pine Ave. I Ocala, FL 34471

352.861.4600 www.drpyles.com

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DESIGN CONSULTING FINANCING OPTIONS LOCAL DELIVERY

“We love bringing fresh, current, and custom styles to our community. It’s great to be able to offer quality made furniture at affordable prices.”

— Gina and Brian Ward

We can help you see

YOUR BEAUTY WITHIN join us for

TO YOUR

HEALTH MONDAYS

WELLNESS

Dr. Dino Madonna

WEDNESDAYS

CALL 1.855.MY1.FACE FOR YOUR RESERVATION

THE VILLAGES Scan the code for a video tour of Face2Face

| 352.259.5126 | 1.855.My1Face | Face2FaceFL.com

To learn more about upcoming seminars, FREE Monday and Wednesday screenings, and special offers at Face 2 Face in The Villages, please visit Face2FaceFL.com or subscribe to our exclusive e-newsletter by sending an email to Face2FaceFL@Gmail.com

cont February

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201 4 // VO LU M E 1 1 N U M B E R 4

Featuring THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Every year, the builders of Lake and Sumter counties roll up their sleeves to prepare for Parade of Homes. Produced by the Home Builders Association of Lake and Sumter, Parade of Homes allows the public to tour new and remodeled homes and gather ideas to build or buy the home of their dreams.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

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HIDDEN POTENTIAL

When seeking your dream home, remodeling can be a better option than relocating. That’s what Fruitland Park residents John and Helene Alexander discovered when they hired building professionals to give their 1979 home a massive facelift. Now, they wake up each day enjoying a much more exciting, comfortable, and functional living space.

STORY: JAMES COMBS

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LIVING OUTDOORS

In Florida, enjoying the great outdoors is a way of life, and many residents have found a way to make living alfresco a part of their home life. In the Lady Lake country club community of Harbor Hills, Dr. Richard and Julie Held are no exception. They transformed their small, screened-in porch into a gorgeous lanai perfect for entertaining family and friends.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

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FROM DRAB TO FAB: A DIY FURNITURE MAKEOVER That peeling piece of furniture that is driving you nuts is far from being unsalvageable. Instead, refurbish old, everyday furniture into something new again using these simple and affordable steps.

CLERMONT:

GEM OF THE HILLS

Lake County’s southernmost city was a diamond in the rough during its early years as an agricultural center, but early residents recognized its potential. Today, the city is polishing its image even more as it embraces its phenomenal growth as one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS

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LAKE & SUMTER EDITION

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TUS POR AS PLA ENDIGNIHICIT ESSEQUE NIS ID ES RE CUSAPELLABOR SETH

On the cover PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

THEHOMEISSUE TUS POR AS PLA ENDIGNIHICIT ESSEQUE NIS ID ES RE CUSAPELLABOR SETH

February

2014

Featuring

BUILDING SMART JOE ZILER SHOWS HOW KEVCO IS CHANGING XXXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXX XX XX XXXXX XX XX XX XXX PARADE OF HOMES XXXX XXXXX XXX XXX XX XX XXXXX. SEE THEIR STORY ON PG 54

VILLAGES EDITION On the cover MODEL: JOE ZILER OF KEVCO CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

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Departments 20

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116 THE TO-DO LIST Music and Mardi Gras are just the tip of the iceberg.

Read our To-Do List for a comprehensive listing of this month’s community events.

FROM THE PUBLISHER FIRST THINGS FIRST 26 #TRENDING Read the round up on the most interesting people, places, and events in Lake and Sumter counties.

30 PERSON OF INTEREST A man with local roots and hometown pride, Robert Chandler IV, director of Lake County Economic Development and Tourism, talks about the big plans he and his department have in store for Lake County.

ON THE SCENE

120 SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT Happy birthday, Mr. President This marks the 112th year that the City of Eustis has held its popular GeorgeFest celebration. Come show your patriotic pride while enjoying a parade, fireworks, live entertainment, and classic cars.

Story: James Combs

32 OUTSTANDING STUDENT Matt Lapas of Beacon College is living proof that having a disability doesn’t have to keep you from living life to the fullest.

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122 OUT+ABOUT Nashville notes Music City USA is about a lot more than country music.

The hip and vibrant town has become one of the South’s leading — and budget friendly — destinations.

Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 124 HI, SOCIETY! From South Lake to Leesburg, Hi! Society is recapping all the highlights. and other local happenings.

122

141 EATS!

142 IN THE KITCHEN Sweets to the sweet Surprise your sweetheart for Valentine’s Day with a special treat that is out of this world. Kilwins in The Villages specializes in making scrumptious goodies that no sugar lover could resist.

Story: Shemir Wiles 146 SALUTE Cellar ideas Storing wine properly can be a challenge, but local oenophiles have found some cool and clever places to keep their wine collections.

Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 148 FORK ON THE ROAD Goblin Market If decadently rich cuisine in a relaxed and elegant setting sounds like a fairy tale of an afternoon, experience Mount Dora’s best kept culinary secret at Goblin Market in Mount Dora.

Story: Shemir Wiles

We do what others promise.

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

Doug Akers

VICE PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

Jamie Ezra Mark CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER jamie@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN Tina Morrison

EDITORIAL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR tina@akersmediagroup.com

Mary Ann DeSantis

EDITOR-AT-LARGE maryann@akersmediagroup.com

Steven J. Codraro ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR steve@akersmediagroup.com

Josh Clark

SENIOR DESIGNER/ADVERTISING josh@akersmediagroup.com

Shemir Wiles

Anthony Casto

James Combs

Fred Lopez

COPY EDITOR/WRITER shemir@akersmediagroup.com STAFF WRITER james@akersmediagroup.com

Heather Tootle

OFFICE MANAGER heather@akersmediagroup.com

Matthew Gaulin PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN

Fred Hilton Leigh Neely Kathy Porter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

SENIOR DESIGNER/EDITORIAL anthony@akersmediagroup.com CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER fred@akersmediagroup.com

Michael Gaulin PRODUCTION DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

Aubrey Akers RECEPTIONIST

Morgan Ellis

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

SALES // MARKETING Tim McRae

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING tim@akersmediagroup.com

Heidi Ressler

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE heidi@akersmediagroup.com

Mike Stegall

SENIOR MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE mike@akersmediagroup.com

Lori Strong

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE lori@akersmediagroup.com

Shaena Chastain SALES ASSISTANT shaena@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION Scott Hegg

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

LAKE & SUMTER STYLE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF

Commercial Cleaning Services & Supplies CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

352.753.8653

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WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

lake & sumter style, January 2014. published monthly by akers Media Group, 1450 e. North Blvd, leesburg, florida 34748. all editorial contents copyright 2013 by akers Media Group. all rights reserved. lake & sumter style is a registered trademark of akers Media Group. 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. “special to lake & sumter style” and “special promotional feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. the ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of akers Media Group.

SINCE 1990 • LICENSED & INSURED

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This month on

What’s happening beyond the print edition

TORI PETRY

HOst Of “stYle tV”

COVER STORY

When buying a home, location is everything. However, sometimes the look of the house doesn’t match its gorgeous views. In Fruitland Park, one couple fixed this problem by remodeling their small, dated home and turning it into a 4,500-square-foot masterpiece.

BON APPÉTIT

What are some of the ingredients that make for a fine dining experience? Dim lights, lovely décor, attentive service, and of course, outstanding food. On this edition of Bon Appetit, Jana Wheeler visits a restaurant in Mount Dora that has it all.

For many people with chronic dry eye, everyday can be a struggle with itchy, irritated eyes. Fortunately, there’s a place where patients can receive a whole spectrum of dry eye treatments under one roof: the Dry Eye Center at Ocala Eye.

HI, SOCIETY!

Country music, great food, and Pop Warner football was the name of the game at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Clermont. Hi, Society! correspondent Tina Morrison was on location at this popular parking lot party to help raise money for the South Lake Dominate and listen to some very talented local country music singers.

CITY SERIES

Saturdays in Leesburg are the perfect time to bring your family, friends, or significant other downtown to enjoy all it has to offer. From Saturday Morning Market and various boutiques to Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe and delicious food, there is something for everyone!

TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT STYLE AT: 16

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You’ll put more money in your pocket when you finance your new or used vehicle, or refinance your existing loan from another financial institution with Insight Credit Union. Just think about all the things you could do with the extra cash.

After all, it’s your money, keep it insight!

1.49% APR is for members with a credit score of 720 or above who finance a new or used vehicle or, refinance their existing auto loan from another financial institution with Insight Credit Union. An additional 0.25% APR autodraft discount may apply when you autodraft your loan payment from your Insight Credit Union checking account. All new checking accounts must be verified and approved through ChexSystems to be eligible for the 0.25% APR autodraft discount. Loan subject to normal underwriting guidelines. Your actual rate will be customized based on your credit score. No other discounts may apply. Maximum term of 36 months at 1.49% APR. Terms 85-96 months require a $40,000 loan amount to qualify. Loan application subject to a $30 Application Fee. Approved refinance loans subject to a $74.75 Lien Recording Fee. Interest accrues from the date of contract. Existing Insight Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for refinance. Other restrictions may apply. Offer begins Jan. 2, 2014, and may be withdrawn at any time. Federally insured by NCUA.

Offices in Eustis, Leesburg, Clermont and Lady Lake 407.426.6000 or Toll-Free 888.843.8328 InsightCreditUnion.com

At your service Where to find us

CFA Live Presents Songwriters Night

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $24. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Style or Healthy Living magazine. Choose both magazines for $36 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112, go to www.akersmediagroup.com or mail us at Subscriptions at Akers Media Group, P.O. Box 490088 Leesburg, FL 34749.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address change request to general@akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 490088 Leesburg, FL 34749.

Live on stage! at the Leesburg Center for the Arts Saturday, April 12 at 7pm, tickets are only $10 each

An intimate evening of hearing songwriters tell the stories and perform their songs. What do musicians talk about when they get together? Get an inside view of a conversation between these artists who tell the stories of the songs they’ve written and perform each other’s music in an acoustic setting.

BACK ISSUES: Order by mail for cover price at $4.95+ sales tax and shipping. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.

We’re looking for

a Few good story ideas Let us know what you would like to read in

Lake & Sumter STYLE magazine.

* SEND YOUR IDEAS TO: tina@akersmediagroup.com Or Mail us at: aKers Media grOUP, inC. P.O. BOX 490088 LeesBUrg, FL 34749

415 W. Main St. • Historic Downtown Leesburg, FL 34748 • 352.728.0033 Open: M-F 10-6 • Sat 10-5

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PANDORA Valentine’s Day gift sets starting at $125.* Available starting January 15. *While supplies last. See store for details.

LAKE EAR NOSE THROAT & FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

Q&A

By providing quality, comprehensive care that is tailored to the unique needs and desires of each patient, our accomplished board-certified physicians, physician assistants, and doctors of audiology can effectively diagnose and treat individuals who come to our offices looking for answers and solutions.

Q: A:

What are some of the most common allergies?

Some of the most common allergies are to dust, mold, trees, grass, weeds, and animals such as dogs and cats.

Dr. Michael A. Freedman

Q:

How do Botox injections work? When will I see results from a Botox cosmetic treatment?

A:

Botox injections work by blocking the chemical that signals the targeted muscle of the face to contract and move. The onset of action usually takes two to three days to start and continues for the first week. Afterward, the Botox effect typically will last three to four months. Regular use may increase the longevity of a Botox treatment.

Dr. Dino Madonna Learn more about sinus conditions and the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure at our dedicated website www.LakeSinusRelief.com

Lake Ear Nose Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Scan the code to view Peg’s Sinuplasty success story video.

THE VILLAGES 352.753.8448 LEESBURG 352.728.2404 TAVARES 352.343.7279 LakeENT.net

F�� the publisher

IN SEARCH OF HOME If you are in the market to buy, build, or remodel, we have made it easier for you with this month’s home issue.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wanted to build or buy a home but you didn’t have any idea where to be begin? I know I have been in that situation before and it can be very frustrating and overwhelming. In fact, my husband, Doug, and I felt this way just a few years back. We were in the market to buy a home, and after our Realtor showed us multiple homes that weren’t our “dream home,” we decided to consider the option of building.

We thought it would be great to be able to sculpt the perfect home for us and create the layout we had always dreamed of having. Unfortunately that didn’t happen. As we began looking for model homes for ideas, we quickly discovered there weren’t any available to view. This left us feeling unsure and we began to reconsider our decision to build.

Things have certainly changed since then. The building and real estate industry is beginning to boom again. Homes are being sold daily and people are now seeking qualified builders to create the home of their dreams.

Therefore, if you are in the market to buy, build, or remodel, we have made it easier for you with this month’s home issue. We’ve created a resource for everything you can image for your home. We’re featuring amazing remodels, outdoor living spaces, this year’s Parade of Homes, and instructions on how to restore worn-out furniture. We are also highlighting Lake County’s top Realtors with a listing of multimillion-dollar and million-dollar producers for 2013, and we’ve included local Realtor profiles so you can get to know a few of them.

Also, you will notice we have added a new column to the magazine called “Final Thought” by the extremely talented and entertaining writer Gary McKechnie. Each month, Gary will share his thoughts and views about the news and events taking place within our community. You can learn more about Gary on his website, www. garymckechnie.com. Gary is a fantastic addition to our editorial team, and I am certain you will enjoy reading his column.

You can also see this month’s issue come to life on “Lake Style TV,” which has changed channels for more viewing options. It can now be viewed on LSTV and will air more than 30 times a month.

By the way, getting back to the beginning, Doug and I eventually found a house that we remodeled and now can call our home. It was a challenging process, but we are living happily ever after.

I hope you enjoy this month’s issue, and as always, we have enjoyed putting it together for you.

Until next month,

Kendra Akers, publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com

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Experience a gallery where you are the artist. Where you can see, touch, and feel your home the

way you want it, right now. All the latest appliances. Gorgeous sinks and faucets. Brilliant lighting.

Plus, the product expertise that makes it easy to turn your vision into reality.

FERGUSON.COM Daytona Melbourne 840 Jimmy Ann Drive 7003 Technology Drive (386) 274-4516 (321) 837-5411

Ocala 3501 SW 13th Street (352) 732-3114

Orlando 1200 Alden Road (407) 893-5452

Winter Haven 3490 Recker Highway (863) 299-5373 Š2014 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.

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co ule Op m a m vi en un sit ity to ! to da y!

W r n Sch e’r ew ed e ou

The right choice means everything HarborChase Assisted Living and Memory Care is now open!

Discover our state-of-the-art community and the warm hearted associates that are ready to provide exceptional care for you or a loved one that requires assistance with day-to-day needs or is challenged with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Schedule a visit to see our beautiful new community for yourself.

888-998-2395

Keep in touch with us on

Assisted Living Facility # Pending

Assisted Living & Memory Care 13517 NE 86th Court, Lady Lake, Florida, 32159 (across from The Villages Regional Hospital) 888-998-2395 | www.HarborChase.com/Villages.htm

MEDICAL & SURGICAL TREATMENT OF: • Bunions and Hammertoes • Corns • Morton’s Neuromas • Ingrown Nails and Warts • Heel and Arch Pain • Thick, Painful Toenails • Foot Injuries • Diabetic & Geriatric Foot Care • Sports Medicine • Orthotics • Diabetic Shoes • Numbness/Tingling of Feet

MEDICARE AND MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED

SCAN HERE with your smart phone To learn more about Tri-County Podiatry

1585 Santa Barbara Blvd., Suite B, The Villages tricountypodiatry.net // 352.259.1919

FOOTC A R E F OR PE OPL E OF A L L AG E S W I T H AC T I V E LIFEST Y LES.

“Dr. Esarey is very warm, caring and highly skilled. He explains in detail the techniques he uses in treating my foot.

He welcomes me to ask any questions or address any concerns I may have. I’m never rushed, and he treats me as if I’m the only patient in the office. Not only is Dr. Esarey outstanding, his team of nurses and front office staff are very responsive and friendly. I don’t believe there’s another practice within 200 miles that offers the level of service they offer to patients.”

-David White

Caring

for all generations

Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid Florida

LLC

LEESBURG 601 E Dixie Ave., Medical Plaza #401 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.787.1535 THE VILLAGES 1400 US Hwy. 441 N, Bldg. #950 The Villages, FL 32159 352.259.5649 www.leesburgobgyn.com JoAnn Newmons, ARNP

Michelle Wood, MD, FACOG

Alfred Moffett, Jr., MD, FACOG, FACS

Douglas Moffett, MD, FACOG

First Things

Shaping Lake’s future Read more about Robert ON PAGE 30.

f1rst

rOBert CHandLer iv

#TRENDING PERSON OF INTEREST OUTSTANDING STUDENT

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

LOCAL STANDOUTS

YOU ‘BETA’ BELIEVE IT!

Emily Leto, an eighth-grade student at Christian Home and Bible School, was elected state president of the National Beta Club. She became the school’s first student to become state president after receiving a majority of votes from 1,850 members at the Junior Beta

Convention on Dec. 3. Emily placed first in the campaign speech and third place in convention speech categories.

In addition to Emily’s outstanding achievement, the following Christian Home and Bible School students placed first at the convention

for their campaign skit: Emily Reising, Summer Johnson, Hanna Carter, Megan Wright, Lauren Abbate, Georgea Serwe, Regan Saulsbury, Danielle Christopher, Dylan Quinn, Caleb Baker, Aijalon Carrasco, Molly Elenz, Melody Coe, Alexis McCreary, Sam

LOCAL ACHIEVEMENT

He’s nO. 1

Thom Kieft, mathematics department chairman at LakeSumter State College, was named as 2013 Professor of the Year by the Association of Florida Colleges.

He was selected from among 13 candidates and received the award at the association’s annual convention.

Kieft has spent the past two

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decades at L-SSC helping students strengthen their critical thinking and analytical skills. “I realize that students may not use some of the mathematical concepts I teach in everyday life, but they will have to problem solve and think critically for the rest of their lives.”

Brown, Coleman Bevill, River Saulsbury, Jack Webster, Justin Rickerson, Hunter Robertson, and Danny Carpenter.

The National Beta Club promotes high academic achievement, improves student leadership skills, and encourages service to others.

*

Leesburg Mardi Gras by the numbers:

200

LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT

THE MAGIC OF MARDI GRAS

Grab your costumes and beads, and let the fun begin. The spectacular sights and sounds of Mardi Gras will come alive this month as carnival revelers stream into the Lakefront City on Feb. 22 for the Leesburg Mardi Gras.

The event is highlighted by three parades: a kid’s parade at 11a.m., a pet parade at 2p.m., and the ever-popular Main Street Mardi Gras Parade at 7p.m. This fun-filled party will also feature the crowning of Leesburg’s King Rex and Queen Divine, as well as street performers, stilt walkers, jugglers, tight rope walkers, fire eaters, live music, and much more.

For more information, please call 352.365.0053 or visit www.leesburgmardigras.com.

The number of cases of beads either purchased or thrown into the crowd during Mardi Gras.

20,000

The number of people who attend throughout the day.

40

The number of entries in the Main Street Parade.

$80,000

The approximate amount raised from the 2013 Mardi Gras.

SOURCE: Leesburg Partnership

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

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

A+ EDUCATORS LOCAL EDUCATION

Forty-seven teachers were named Teacher of the Year for their individual schools. After a panel of six administrators graded the teachers’ applications for the 2015 Lake County Teacher of the Year award, the list was narrowed to three finalists: Keith Hyndshaw from Leesburg High School, Tiffany Scott from Mount Dora Middle School, and Rachael Adams from Round Lake Charter Elementary School.

The winner will be chosen during a ceremony on Feb. 22 at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora. Congratulations to the other 44 nominees.

• • •

Matt Burris, Astatula Elementary Karen Zachar, Beverly Shores Elementary Linda Wright, Carver Middle

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Jennifer Lykins, Clermont Elementary Nethia McConnell, Clermont Middle Stacey M. Taylor, Cypress Ridge Elementary Betty Howard, East Ridge High Cheryl Manganiello, East Ridge Middle Kristy Beach, Eustis Elementary Damian Bardoni, Eustis Heights Elementary Jessica Dawn Mariany, Eustis High Roberta Schneck, Eustis Middle Ellen Miller, Fruitland Park Elementary James Neiford, Grassy Lake Elementary Chelsey Gismonde, Gray Middle School Amy Tarquine, Groveland Elementary John Wall, Humanities of Fine Arts Charter Gina M. Hay, Lake Hills Stephanie Dunlap, Lake Minneola High Beth L. Thornton, Lake Technical Center Carolyn Mendez, Lake County Virtual Jessica Hunter, Leesburg Elementary Sue Reid, Lost Lake Elementary Wendi Newman, Mascotte Charter Elementary

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Natalie Dyer, Minneola Charter Elementary Billye Kozlowski, Mount Dora High Andrea Smith, Oak Park Middle Kristin O’Hara, Pine Ridge Elementary Theresa Daugherty, Rimes Early Learning Center Imali Kent, Sawgrass Bay Elementary Edwin Anderson, Seminole Springs Elementary Jennifer Hurley, Sorrento Elementary John Hebert, South Lake High Kelly Ferrie, Spring Creek Charter Terri Reynolds, Tavares Elementary Debbie Ziebart, Tavares High Thomas Valenta, Tavares Middle JulieAnn Feezor, Treadway Elementary Whitney Fraizer, Triangle Elementary Wendy Clark, Umatilla Elementary Jaime Adkins, Umatilla High Kerry McLaughlin, Umatilla Middle Tatyana Baty, Villages Elementary Laurie Lindsay-Zahn, Windy Hill Middle

RAISING THE PAR Lake County has become a prime destination where the nation’s outstanding young golfers will tee off and showcase their skills.

The National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) recently announced that Lake County has been chosen to host the 2016 Division II Men’s Golf Regional Championship, the 2017 Division III Men’s Golf Championship, and the 2018 Division III Women’s Golf Championship. All three events will be held at Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills.

The championship golf tournaments are expected to bring almost 1,200 out-of-town visitors to Lake County, resulting in an estimated $1.3 million economic impact. “The county’s economic action plan set a goal to promote Lake County as a destination for sporting events,” says County Commissioner Welton Cadwell. “By being chosen to host the NCAA golf tournaments, it demonstrates that Lake County is working hard to achieve that goal.”

“Events like these have a positive impact on our local economy and draw attention to the great venues we have in Lake County,” says Robert Chandler IV, director of Lake County’s Economic Development and Tourism Department.

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LOVABLE VALENTINE’S DAY FACTS Greeting cards, chocolate, and roses will be flying off the shelves of local stores this month as sweethearts and spouses celebrate Valentine’s Day. Here are some interesting facts about how this special day impacts our economy: • • •

• •

•

• •

About 73 percent of people who purchase flowers on Valentine’s Day are men.

Roughly 15 percent of women in the U.S. send themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day. Approximately 110 million roses, mostly red, will be sold and delivered within the three-day Valentine’s Day period.

Nearly 189 million stems of roses are sold in the U.S. on Valentine’s Day. According to the U.S. Greeting Card Association, approximately 1 billion Valentine’s cards are sent out worldwide. That’s second only to Christmas.

Teachers receive the most Valentine’s Day cards, followed by children, mothers, wives, sweethearts, and pets.

Women purchase roughly 85 percent of all Valentine’s Day cards.

More than $1 billion worth of chocolate is purchased for this special day, including 35 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate.

Source: www.sheknows.com/holidaysand-seasons/articles/807655/fun-factsabout-valentine-s-day

LOCAL ART

WAX ON, WAX OFF

The encaustic paintings of 35 artists from around the country will be showcased inside the gallery at the Mount Dora Center for the Arts. The exhibit, called the “Big Bad Wax” show, will be held through March 2.

Encaustic painting is an ancient art form first discovered by Greek shipbuilders and later used by Egyptian painters.

Although its popularity has waned over the centuries, popular artist Jasper Johns resurrected this medium in the mid-20th century.

Encaustic painting uses beeswax, resin, and pigment. Its surface can be polished for a luminous effect, or the wax can

be modeled, sculpted, textured, or combined with collage material.

The exhibit is also available during the 39th annual Mount

Dora Arts Festival on Feb. 1-2.

For more information, call the Mount Dora Center for the Arts at 352.383.0880.

LOCAL RECOGNITION

Hard work pays dividends Because they are both huge assets to United Southern Bank (USB), Sherry Howard and Ivan Gonzalez recently received promotions.

Howard, a former branch manager in Mount Dora, has moved to the Tavares office as branch manager to replace Bob Speaks, who is retiring.

“Sherry has been part of the USB team for 20 years, and she is eager to get to know the community in Tavares,” says Greg Lewis, senior vice president of the bank.

Gonzalez was promoted

to consumer banker in the Mount Dora office and will be working alongside Allan Seabrook, a commercial lender. “He is a rising star

here at USB,” Lewis says.

“This young man has an exciting future, and we are pleased to watch him grow along with our bank.”

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First things first // person of interest Movers and shakers

VITAL STATS AGE: 35

CON ‘GRAD’ULATIONS: Graduated from Davidson College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and from the University of Florida with a master’s degree in business administration.

MOVIN’ ON UP: Robert served as regional coordinator of Lake County Economic Development and Tourism before being promoted to director in April 2013.

LOCAL ROOTS: Robert is a Lake County native who graduated from Leesburg High School in 1996.

introduction by mutual friends. The first time we met, she spent most of the evening questioning if my name was real.

Everyone calls me “IV” because my name is Robert Chandler IV.

SUIT D LEA DIRECTOR, LAKE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

AND TOURISM

GOALS: As director of Lake County Economic Development and Tourism, I have two main goals: to assist the private sector in the creation of high wage jobs and to attract more tourism visitors to Lake County.

Economically, we do this by supporting our existing businesses and by marketing Lake County as a destination for startups or expanding businesses. From a tourism standpoint, we put a strong emphasis on marketing Lake County’s unique tourism strengths, such as our historic downtowns, ecotourism activities, or many popular events and festivals, to help the county become a great destination for visitors.

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MESSAGE TO THE PEOPLE: We have one of the hardest working staffs I have ever been around and an innovative strategic plan that I believe has Lake County poised for tremendous success. While ultimately we will play only a small role in shaping Lake County’s future, I want the Lake County taxpayers to know we will be responsible stewards of their money and will work tirelessly to ensure Lake County has a bright future.

HOW YOU MET YOUR WIFE: My wife, Jennifer, and I have been married since 2005.

We met in Gainesville through an

FAVORITE MEMORY GROWING UP IN LAKE: Meeting friends at Friday night football games and then taking our trucks to the woods.

Sometimes we would go mudding and other times we’d sit around a campfire telling stories.

WORST ADVICE: When people give advice based on their own fears and insecurities, they are not looking out for your best interests; they are offering advice based on what makes them comfortable.

FAVORITE JUNK FOOD: I’m an equal opportunity junk food guy, but if I had to name one thing it definitely would be Skittles.

SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU: Right after college I landed a job with IMG, a sports marketing company. One aspect of my job entailed attending NASCAR races and handing the winning driver a Coke whenever a Coke-sponsored driver won. So if you ever saw a hand on television giving the winning driver a Coke, that was me!

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

O ED T

ROBERT CHANDLER IV

LAST ROMANTIC DATE: Jennifer and I dropped off the kids and were going to have dinner in Orlando. However, we never ate. Instead, we stopped at a car dealership and traded our van in for a new SUV.

The Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute is dedicated solely to treating prostate cancer.

The center is designed for patient comfort and convenience with innovative technology and the highest standards of quality.

There are many ways prostate cancer may be treated. Our team of board-certified urologists, pathologists and radiation oncologists personalizes treatment based on each patient’s unique needs.

Adjacent to The Villages, the Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute offers a variety of techniques and treatments including: • RapidArc IMRT with IGRT Utilizing ConeBeam CT

The Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology as the result of a recent

• Hormone Therapy

review by the American College

• Watchful Waiting

of Radiology. Our patients can

• Minimally Invasive Surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System

trust that it meets standards for

(performed by our urology team at local hospitals)

radiation safety and image quality.

Together, our clinical team is dedicated to finding the best prostate cancer treatment option for you.

TM

12109 County Road 103 • Oxford, FL 34484 • 1-855-298-CURE • 352-350-8272 AdvancedProstateCancerInstitute.com Successful prostate cancer treatment depends on early detection. Speak with your physician about your risk factors to determine when screening for prostate cancer is right.

First things first // outstanding student Making the grade

VITAL STATS A STRONG POINT: Matt maintains a 3.9 grade-point average at Beacon College.

GRADUATION LOOMS: Matt will graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in human services.

PLEASE DO THE HONORS: Matt is a member of Gamma Beta Phi, a national honor society with chapters throughout the United States.

point in my life I realized I might as well enjoy life and have a good time. I decided not to let my speech disorder bother me and realized it is part of who I am. If people do not like me for who I am then it is not my fault.

THE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE to anyone who feels different because they suffer from a mental or physical problem is this: There’s only one you, so make it count.

I BEGAN ATTENDING BEACON COLLEGE at age 22. I have met some really wonderful friends here who have had a positive impact on my life. One of my absolute best friends is Rachel Yellon, who is currently a junior. We are study buddies and also hang out at Subway.

I HAVE OVERCOME MY SHYNESS and have made appearances on local television and radio stations to talk about my life and the wonderful experience I’ve had at Beacon College. I have also been interviewed by newspaper reporters.

WHILE ATTENDING BEACON COLLEGE, I have enjoyed volunteering at local festivals such as the Leesburg Chili Cookoff, Leesburg Bikefest, and the Leesburg Main Street Christmas Parade.

I also volunteer twice a week at the Humanities and Fine Arts Charter School on Lee Street. I enjoy working with children.

AGE : 2 5 S E N I O R AT BE AC ON C OL L E GE

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AT AGE 20 I moved to Australia and became a teacher’s assistant. At that

MY FAVORITE BOOK IS Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado. This book helped inspire me to enjoy life to the fullest.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

MATT LAPAS

I WAS BORN WITH a speech disorder known as dyspraxia. Because of this disorder, a bully used to pick on me when I was 12. I used to let dyspraxia bother me quite a bit. There was a time when I was afraid what people might say, so I sheltered myself and did not have any best friends. I was antisocial and did not talk to anyone in high school.

AFTER GRADUATION, I plan to take one year off and do some traveling. Then I will enroll at Webster University in Ocala and earn a master’s degree in psychology. Ultimately, I want to become a school counselor. I have a passion for schools, and being able to have a positive impact on children is the greatest way I could possibly give back.

kevco builders Innovation

Integrity

352.742.3398

Excellence

2104 S. Bay Street, Eustis, FL 32726 • kevcobuilders.com CBC #1259012

2013 Parade of Homes Best in Class Winner $350,000 - $400,000 range 2013 Parade of Homes Best in Class Winner $100,000 - $150,000 range 2013 Parade of Homes Merit Award for Best Bathroom 2013 Parade of Homes Merit Award for Kitchen 2012 Builder of the Year 2012 Parade of Homes Best In Class 2012 Parade of Homes Best Value 2012 Parade of Homes Remodelers Showcase *** No Parade of Homes was held in 2010 and 2011 2009 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2008 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2007 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2006 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2005 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2004 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2002 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 2001 Showcase Winner – HBA Remodeler of the Year 1995 HBA Builder of the Year 1991 First Place Winner HBA Parade of Homes 1990 HBA Builder of the Year 1990 First Place Winner HBA Parade of Homes 1989 Second Place Winner HBA Parade of Homes

We measure our su but in the satisfaction of the

energy

smart homes

ccess not in dollars, people we do business with.

Energy Smart Home Plans is the first pre-drawn, highperformance home plan collection uniting right-sized luxury design with super energysaving technology. Built to the specifications provided, these timely, trendsetting homes consume an impressive 45% to 50% less energy than other standard built-to-code, brandnew homes, with no increase in construction cost! Many of these award-winning homes have even been built as true Net-Zero Energy Homes.

Energy Smart Home Plans are available in three popular exterior styles — Southern Classic, French Country, and Mediterranean — which include design features formerly found only in much more expensive real estate.

Kevco Builders is proud to bring this new style of construction and design to Central Florida and invites you to see their first Energy Smart home in the Home Builders Association of LakeSumter’s Parade of Homes.

“Joe and his team did a fabulous job remodeling my home. I trust Joe to the fullest, and I love the fact that he’s willing to think outside the box and kick things up a notch. Joe is dynamic instead of static. He went above and beyond to satisfy all my needs.”

— Helene Alexander

Scan the code to enjoy a video tour and hear more from Helene Alexander about her Kevco experience.

Never at a loss for

awards The success of Kevco Builders has not gone unnoticed. In the past few years, the company has continued nailing one award after another. As a matter of fact, Kevco has become Lake County’s most award-winning construction company.

It was recently ranked third on the Orlando Business Journal’s Fast 50 list of Central Florida companies. The publication’s Fast 50 list recognizes the fastest-growing private companies headquartered in Lake, Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties.

Inclusion on this prestigious list is based on a company’s percentage of revenue growth from 2010 through 2012. Kevco’s revenue grew more than 280 percent during that time. Even more impressively, Kevco ranked 22nd overall in Florida.

“We are very proud of the new business we’ve been able to generate,” Joe says. “More importantly, our team has never lost sight of our goal to provide clients with creative, high-quality craftsmanship, no matter the size or scope of the project.”

In addition, Kevco Builders is the only company to win both the residential construction and remodelers

showcase categories for two consecutive years in the Parade of Homes. In 2013, the company won in the following Parade of Homes categories: Remodelers Showcase, Single-Family New Construction In the $100,000–$150,000 Range; and Custom-Home New Construction Project In the $350,001–$400,000 Range.

In 2012, Kevco was named “Builder of the Year”. “It is an honor to be recognized by our industry peers for the work we do in the community,” Joe says. “In addition to peer recognition, Kevco’s commitment to client and community service is why more than 65 percent of our projects are the result of customer referrals.”

These awards undoubtedly reflect the pride and commitment that Joe and his team display throughout every project they undertake. The teamwork, quality construction, and strong emphasis on customers ensure an experience that exceeds expectations.

“I’ve always liked the fact that I can bring somebody from a concept on a piece of paper into a home that’s sustainable and enjoyable. Twenty years down the road, I can drive by and say, ‘I helped create that.’”

Although Joe has been in the industry for 23 years and has worked for both regional and national builders, his five years at Kevco have been the most rewarding of his career.

“For me, the coolest thing is to have bought a company that had a great reputation and longevity in the county and five years later, be where we are today. It’s a dream realized for me,” says Joe. “I thoroughly enjoy being part of Lake County and feel like we are an integral part of the community.”

a smartidea For Joe, staying abreast of the changing technology and innovations in the homebuilding and remodeling industry is of utmost importance. That’s one reason why Kevco became the first builder in Central Florida to offer Energy Smart homes. As a result, Kevco not only offers superior craftsmanship and design, but super energy-saving technology, as well.

Energy Smart is a new technology where air conditioning and heating equipment, along with duct work, is designed within the actual living space of the home instead of the attic or garage space. These homes consume an impressive 40 to 50 percent less energy than standard, built-to-code homes — with no significant increase in construction costs. The building materials feature high-performance

windows, doors, and Energy Starrated ceiling fans and appliances.

“The concept of Energy Smart grew out of collaboration between a Gainesville engineer and a South Florida architect,” Joe says. “In comparison to solar energy, which has a seven- to nine-year return on investment, Energy Smart homes have a two-year return on investment without the obtrusive look of solar panels on the exterior of the home.”

Joe says the estimated annual energy cost on a 2,100-square-foot home is $1,200. “Kevco believes so strongly in this new technology that we will be paying the first-year energy costs of the home regardless of the actual amount,” he adds.

Kevco recently completed construction on its first Energy Smart home in Lady

Lake. “In the future, we will incorporate this Energy Smart concept into nearly every home we build.”

Energy Smart home plans come in three styles —Southern Classic, French Country, and Mediterranean. Each feature 10-foot high ceilings and tray ceilings in the main rooms, as well as strategically placed windows to maximize natural light. The models are available in one- and two-story designs and range in size from approximately 1,500 square feet to more than 3,500 square feet.

Scan the code for a video sneak peek inside a Kevco Energy Smart home during construction.

Built Scan the code for a video interview with Kevco president Joe Ziler about the Kevco philosophy.

on a solid foundation

More and more clients throughout Central Florida feel right at home with Kevco Builders.

You may desire to build the home of your dream. Or perhaps you simply want to change some things in your home without changing where you live.

These days, more and more people are relying on Kevco Builders, a locally owned, well established building and remodeling company. Having been in business for 33 years, Kevco Builders has developed a loyal following of satisfied customers in Lake County and throughout Central Florida who value local expertise and quality craftsmanship above all else.

President and owner Joe Ziler and his team are poised to take on any project involving home construction and home remodeling. From the initial concept through completion, they work closely with clients through every detail of the project. They take a great deal of pride in each job and want their work to be worthy of a client’s investment.

“We are extremely proud of a recent customer service program we have implemented,” says Joe, who purchased Kevco Builders in 2008. “We have an internal customer service manager who calls clients on a weekly basis to follow up on the progress of a job, make sure they are being serviced properly by field staff, and ensure their expectations are being met. If you let little problems fester, then little problems become big problems. By keeping in constant communication with our clients, we make sure to handle small problems before they fester. As owner of the company, I am very engaged and visit our job sites. I always know what is going on with our jobs, employees, and customers.”

When times are tough like they have been for the construction industry, it is smart business owners such as Joe who survive. Not only has his company survived; it is also operating debt free. That gives Kevco Builders a competitive advantage in a turbulent economic environment.

“We feel very fortunate because being debt free is far from the norm in our industry,” he says. “This also gives our clients peace of mind because they know we are not trying to survive week to week and leave them worrying whether we’ll be out of business before a project is completed.”

“Kevco built a house for my mother over 20 years ago and my custom home last year, which won the Parade of Homes in the $350,000–$400,000 class.”

— Al Rios

Scan the code to learn more about this and other custom built Kevco homes.

kevco builders Innovation

Integrity

Excellence

Let us help you get back in the game

Villages Rehab & Nursing Center The brand new and state of the art Villages Rehab and Nursing Center is now open and accepting seniors in need of a helping hand recovering from a recent hospital stay to quickly and thoroughly return to their previous active lifestyle.

We are proud to bring to the area pioneering concepts to make rehab a personalized and positive experience for the patient and their family.

Rehab & Nursing Center

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THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

Local homebuilders get ready to showcase their skills during the 2014 Parade of Homes.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

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Everyone dreams of a place to call “home.” Some fulfill that dream by buying a house and transforming it into something beyond their wildest imaginations. Others desire to see their home built from the ground-up, ensuring each precious detail is executed to achieve a picture-perfect vision.

Before the first wall can be knocked down or the first concrete slab can be poured, plans must be in place. Ideas need to be shared. Finding ideas for the perfect home, however, sometimes can be difficult.

Flipping through magazines may not be enough.

That is where the Home Builders Association of Lake and Sumter’s Parade of Homes comes in. Since 1979, the local Parade of Homes tour has given builders and developers the invaluable opportunity to display to consumers the latest in home design, energy efficiency, new home choices, and much more.

The local Parade of Homes took a two-year hiatus in 2010 and 2011, but the event returned in full force in 2012, signifying that the housing market was making strides toward recovery. Lake and Sumter HBA Executive Director Carolyn Maimone says she sees nothing but continued growth as the number of

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Parade of Homes participants and entries increase with each passing year.

“In 2013, we had 11 participants and 20 entries. This year, we have 19 participants and 32 entries.

For us, it’s great to see builders willing to be a part of Parade of Homes again,” she says. “It means slowly but surely we are getting back to some type of normalcy for the construction business.”

For the first time, Mainsail Solutions is joining in the Parade of Homes to promote its new Lady Lake housing community, Green Key Village.

* The Annual Parade of Homes runs from Feb. 22 to March 2

GREG AND KIM THOMAS

“We just opened our doors in late November, and we want to use Parade of Homes as an opportunity to introduce ourselves to the community at large,” says Kim Thomas, who owns Green Key Village along with her husband Greg, the community’s

.com

*

builder and developer.

Set on 78 acres near Lake Ella Road, Green Key Village is slated to be the first fully green community in Lake County. Each home will be solar powered, resulting in net zero living.

“The goal of our net zero homes is to be energy efficient,” says Thomas. “A family will only generate as much energy as it consumes annually.”

For the Parade of Homes tour, three models will be available for viewing at Green Key Village. Thomas says those who plan to visit should expect a comprehensive educational experience.

“We’re looking forward to it,” says Thomas. “We hope to drive a lot of traffic to our village and give people a full understanding about how our homes are built.”

Also looking to reap benefits from his participation is 2013 Builder of the Year Andrew Nutt. His experience working for various

ANDREW NUTT

“It’s great to see builders willing to be a part of Parade of Homes.”

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

— Carolyn Maimone

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other building companies has given him a firsthand view of how beneficial the Parade of Homes is for business. This year, he is looking to showcase his own company, Holly Homes.

“I’ve been in the parade before with other companies, and it is a good customer draw,” says Nutt.

“Before, I didn’t have the material to participate, but I’m excited to have a remodel entered this year.”

Though some work still needs to be completed, Nutt expects the home will be ready to show by Feb. 22, the opening day for Parade of Homes. Holly Homes’ Eustis entry is a complete interior and exterior overhaul of an older home. Nutt’s goal was to make the home more accessible, making entryways and hallways wider, which can be extremely handy for people looking to live out their golden years in their own home.

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“What we did was pretty extensive. I wanted to give the home great access for walkers and wheelchairs,” says Nutt. “People sometimes don’t think of having a home with all the amenities necessary for growing older comfortably. I believe this is one of our most diverse remodels, so we’re happy to be able to show it to the public.”

JACK LAZINSK

Jack Lazinsk, director of sales and marketing for Lennar Homes for the Orlando region, expresses equal excitement about participating in Parade of Homes.

.com

“We always look forward to meeting new prospects we otherwise wouldn’t have met in our communities,” he says. “Parade of Homes is a great traffic driver for people who may be in the market for a new home.”

This year, Lennar Homes will be highlighting two homes: one located in the RedTail golf community in Sorrento and the other located at Heritage Hills in Clermont.

Many of the homes slated to be on display range from the mid $130,000 to the high $570,000. A virtual entry, valued at $1,795,000, will also be available for viewing.

Maimone says builders will be showing off some of their signature touches and unique features. For example, Kevco Builders is well known for incorporating granite and crown molding into their homes, regardless of the home’s construction costs.

“It’s a little bit of everything,” she says. “The builders have niche things they do and that will cer-

tainly be front and center with these entries.”

Noticeably missing from this year’s Parade of Homes are housing communities.

Though things are moving positively for the local building industry, it is still experiencing growing pains. With the inventory of existing homes for sale being low, more and more people are seeking to have their homes built. However, the labor force isn’t in place to meet the demand.

According to a recent story by the Sun Sentinel, Florida contractors said in a recent survey that they are having the most trouble finding project managers and craft workers, including pipe fitters, welders, and masons. They also lost workers to industries outside the state, particularly to the oil industry.

“Things are moving in a positive direction, but there have been a few hiccups,” explains Maimone.

“When the housing market crashed, the trained labor left the state to find work elsewhere. Now that things are recovering, builders are

having a tough time finding workers and materials to complete their jobs.”

As a result, Lake and Sumter HBA has been actively urging local and regional technical schools to begin pushing classes pertaining to the construction trade again.

“Homebuilding is coming back, but it’s hard for these builders to schedule projects. Houses aren’t going up as fast and that also directly affects the amount of entries we get for our Parade of Homes,” says Maimone.

“These companies must have homes ready to show when the event comes

around and timing can be difficult. It’s a fine line to get that entry in.”

Nevertheless, the overall outlook stays positive for local homebuilding — and for future Parade of Homes showcases.

“Our builders always report having good foot traffic and a fair amount of contracts as a result of Parade of Homes,” says Maimone.

“Each year, we work our hardest to promote it and make it as big as possible.

In the end, we want to give our builders a great return on their investment because when we’re successful, they’re successful.”

2014

Parade of Homes participants

A&M HOMES • D.R. HORTON HOMES • ELITE LIFESTYLES OF FLORIDA • GINGERICH CONSTRUCTION • HARBOR HILLS DEVELOPMENT HEGSTROM HOMES • HOLLY HOMES J CHRISTOPHER HOMES • J. DREWES CONSTRUCTION • KB HOME • KEVCO BUILDERS LENNAR HOMES • MAINSAIL SOLUTIONS • MARONDA HOMES • MEDALLION HOME • PIONEER CUSTOM HOMES • PRINGLE HOMEBUILDING GROUP PSL CONSTRUCTION INC. • ROYAL OAK HOMES

what is the

PARADEof

HOMES?

The very first Parade of Homes started in 1946 with The Salt Lake Home Builders Association. Since that time, home builders associations throughout the United States have embraced this annual event as a way to showcase the best of the best in local home construction and remodeling.

The Lake and Sumter HBA’s Parade of Homes is a scattersite tour open to the public. Each year, builders display their best workmanship through newly built model and renovated homes. In return, potential homebuyers and homeowners looking to remodel can see the latest technologies and trends in a casual setting.

“This event is our largest multimedia promotional campaign and it’s fairly popular,” says Maimone. “People are curious to see what’s new, and they use this event as an opportunity to develop concepts for what they may want in their own homes. I actually had a woman call me to say she had collected our guidebooks over the years and used the ideas she gained from Parade of Homes to build her dream home.

That’s what we aim to accomplish with this event. We want to inspire people to take part in the American dream of homeownership.”

This year, Lake and Sumter HBA added a new category to the Parade of Homes called the Showroom Showcase. It allows members to highlight their retail showrooms and drive traffic to their stores. “If you’re a plumber or you do flooring, it gives you the opportunity to show the public what products and services you have by opening up your showroom,” Maimone explains. “It gets the businesses that contribute to the building industry involved. We have two companies participating this year, but we hope to see interest in this category grow as Parade of Homes continues to grow.”

This year, the Parade of Homes runs from Feb. 22 to March 2. Be on the lookout for the 2014 guidebooks at Lowe’s and other locations throughout Lake and Sumter counties. In addition, those with a home subscription to the Orlando Sentinel will receive the guidebook inside their newspaper prior to the event.

For more information about Parade of Homes and other guidebook distribution locations, visit lakesumterhba.com.

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HOT TOPICS Friday, February 7th @ 2 PM MIGHTY MEDICINE MUSIC Join us to hear this new entertainment venue.

Does the name have your interest sparked?

Come and find out what this is all about.

Friday, February 14th @ 2 PM

VALENTINE’S DAY SWEETHEART DANCE Mr. October will be here to sing love songs for you to listen and dance to. This special event will be fun for everyone whether you are single or married. You may find that “special someone” right here. Refreshments will be served.

Tuesday, February 18th @ 2:30 PM NIKKI & BUCK MINISTRY

Promoting the Gospel of Jesus Christ This is an uplifting hour of ministry and Gospel music. If you have not heard this ministry before, please join us.

Friday, February 28th @ 2PM

SOCIAL HOUR W/PETER ROCKFELD If you like to sing, you will enjoy this event. Peter Rockfeld plays the guitar and leads you in a sing-along of favorite songs.

a Life

to

c e L e b r at e

Greg Padgett 1963-2014 GreG PadGett,

a native of

LeesburG,

was a seLfLess

Leader who was dedicated to betterinG the community.

he

wiLL be remembered for his warm

smiLe, Positivity, and kind Generous nature.

he

touched the Lives of many and he wiLL be GreatLy missed.

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GET INSPIRED!!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! THE 2014 LAKE & SUMTER PARADE OF HOMES IS ALMOST HERE! SATURDAY FEBRUARY 22 - SUNDAY MARCH 2 THIS ANNUAL MULTI-SITE EVENT HIGHLIGHTS COMMUNITIES, BUILDERS, REMODELERS AND SHOWROOM SHOWCASE ENTRIES. THERE ARE OVER 30 ENTRIES IN THIS YEARS PARADE. SO MAKE SURE TO GET YOUR HANDS ON THE OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK, WHERE YOU CAN FIND PICTURES AND ADDRESSES FOR THE ENTRIES AND A PULL OUT MAP OF THE ENTRY LOCATIONS. THEY WILL BE DELIVERED TO ORLANDO SENTINEL HOME DELIVERIES ON FRIDAY FEBRUARY 21 AND WILL BE AVAILABLE IN SPECIAL NEWSTANDS AROUND LAKE AND SUMTER COUNTIES. WATCH FOR MORE INFORMATION IN THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, AND A SPECIAL PARADE OF HOMES “PROFILES” PROGRAM ON LSTV THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY. FOR UP TO THE MINUTE INFORMATION, CHECK OUT THE PARADE OF HOMES WEBPAGE AT WWW.LAKESUMTERHBA.COM.

PRESENTED BY:

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

For more details call 352-343-7101 or Email Admin@LakeSumterHBA.com or visit www.LakeSumterHBA.com

“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with thirty-one years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death.

“In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.” “When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says.

“Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him. Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.”

While prescribing medications for BPH

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

One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than thirty minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radiofrequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 1,200 patients with this procedure. “Medtronic is a $13 billiona-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!”

And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than twenty

years) you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out.

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

JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D. Board Certified Urologist Practicing in Lake County for over 31 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

For more information, contact

PHYSICIANS FOR ACCOUNTABLE CARE 920 Rolling Acres Road, Suite 201 Lady Lake, FL 32159

352.751.4990 801 Northshore Drive, Eustis, FL 32726

352.357.6786

ProstateEvaluation.com

HIDDEN

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before

POTENTIAL STORY:JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

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The living room, especially the open-floor plan and 12-foot high ceilings with coffers, gives the house a contemporary feel. Unbelievably, it took only one day to reconstruct and raise the roof in the living room. Directly underneath the big-screen television is a linear gas fireplace with LED lights.

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As avid wine enthusiasts, the Alexanders decided to incorporate an Italian-style wine cellar in their living room. Natural stones artistically surround the cellar’s grape-leaf patterned iron door. The authentic-looking tiles atop the wine cellar were actually made from Styrofoam™ and faux painted by Helene. This cellar holds up to 650 bottles of wine, and the temperature stays a constant 55 degrees.

before

Helene and John Alexander are self-described “Parade of Homes groupies.” For 30 years, they’ve attended various events throughout the country, gathering pictures and obtaining ideas and visions of what their dream home would one day look like.

Several years ago, they made this dream become a reality.

Rather than purchase or build an extravagant new home, they decided to remodel their existing waterfront house in Fruitland Park, which was originally built in 1979.

“When my father died in 2006, my mother came to live with us,” Helene says. “We eventually built a 2,000-square-foot addition to our home so she could have her own living space. The addition was beautiful and incorporated all the ideas we had gathered from attending Parade of Homes events. We decided to remodel the original part of the home and stick to the same theme and flavors as the addition.”

In June 2009, Kevco Builders, which built the addition, began a complete overhaul of the home’s interior. The project was completed in December 2010.

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The new kitchen was physically moved to the area that was the Alexander’s family room. As a result, plumbing fixtures were relocated. The old galley-style kitchen gave way to a state-ofthe-art designer kitchen equipped with a steamer oven, futuristic joystick faucet handles, induction cooktop, and a convection oven and microwave

before

The wait was well worth it. The home is a perfect blend of contemporary and traditional, including features such as an Italian-style wine cellar, a raised living room ceiling with 12-foot high coffers, plantation shutters, travertine and hardwood flooring, a modern linear fireplace, and a kitchen with upscale appliances and exotic granite countertops. Complementing the home’s stunning interior is a 14-foot high porte cochere entrance with stone pavers that provides an elegant arrival for all guests.

“Everything in here is very personal to us and says who we are and what we like,” Helene says.” We could never grow tired of living here.”

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The master bathroom, pictured above, underwent a major renovation. The old shower was converted into a glass medicine cabinet and linen closet. The new shower is equipped with wonderful amenities, including rain showerheads, body jets, a television, and stereo.

“It’s a great way to start your day,” Helene says.

before

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Door Solutions Made Easy Through

Craftsmanship

Ro-Mac Doors is managed by Chuck Shoop, who is a master tradesman in doors and millwork. Chuck has been solving difficult door problems at Ro-Mac for over 16 years and previously worked as a master craftsman in the cabinet industry for nearly two Chu and his skilled team decades. Chuck of craftsman are ready to serve you – they will solve your door problems quickly and make your home more beautiful.

Ro-Mac Doors is available in case of emergencies due to break-ins, storms or fire.

Is your front door a “Plain Jane” six-panel door?

When you look at your front entrance, do you see a door that is ordinary, uninteresting, dull, or boring?

Maybe it’s rusted, worn-out, beat-up, or just plain ugly. If so, you, like thousands of other homeowners in Lake and Sumter Counties, may believe you are stuck with a front door that takes away from the beauty of your home. Let Ro-Mac help. Ro-Mac Doors in Leesburg can easily improve the look of your front door without breaking the bank.

Most homeowners believe changing an ugly front door will be a big costly ordeal that requires hiring a carpenter. In most cases, that’s not true, as Ro-Mac Doors can usually replace the door without ever removing the door jamb. Ro-Mac’s custom door plant in downtown Leesburg can size and hinge new doors to fit most existing openings. In many cases, Ro-Mac’s door technicians can unpin hinges to an old, ugly front door and have it replaced with the door of your dreams within five minutes.

Adding Decorative Glass Inserts: Maybe you have “senior eyes” and need some extra light in your home or maybe you just want to let the glorious outside light shine into your home. Ro-Mac Doors can transform your solid door with a decorative glass insert. Ro-Mac has a special onsite door machine that can cut and install decorative glass into most solid doors that will completely improve the look of your home.

Replacing the Door Unit: In many cases, homeowners need to replace both the door and jamb (door unit) due to damage from rain, humidity, or sprinklers. Ro-Mac’s technicians can completely take care of all your needs, from permitting to installation. They can install a fiberglass door unit with composite jambs and moulding that is completely rot resistant. A true “set it and forget it” door solution.

Interior Door Solutions:

Ro-Mac Doors also offers the most innovative solutions for replacing plain, worn out interior doors in your home by specially milling interior doors that can easily be re-hinged to match your existing door openings. For literally just a few extra dollars, you can have embossed panel and cathedral doors installed in your home in a matter of minutes. From complete door change-outs to moulding replacement or weather-strip repair, Ro-Mac Doors can dress up the interior millwork in your home.

www.romaclumber.com Need Custom Sizes?

No Problem. Ro-Mac Doors has a fully operational door plant in downtown Leesburg and can usually accommodate all custom-sized doors and millwork.

Unlike the big box stores that only offer a “one-sizefits-all” solution, Ro-Mac Doors can cut down doors, shift hinge placement, and change lock positions to fit your needs and save you money. Custom jobs are nothing new for the most experienced door staff in Central Florida.

DOORS

LICENSE NO. CBC1252465

700 E. Main St. | Leesburg, FL

352-314-3169

Over 300 colors

in stock!

COUNTERTOPS • VANITIES • FIREPLACES • FLOORING • CUSTOM FABRICATION

Real Estate Professionals Delivering Real Solutions to Real Estate "Don’t trust one of your most important purchases to just anyone…. Trust the REALTORS® at Real Living Good Neighbor Realty"

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Call (352) 516-2278 www.RealLivingGoodNeighbor.com

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2014_RoMacHomeShow_FP_style_c.indd 1

1/15/2014 4:31:26 PM

VILLAGER OWNED & OPERATED FULL SERVICE FLOORING TEAM WITH 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

4521-B Monaco Way, Wildwood Across from Brownwood entrance on sr44 behind Sparr Building and Farm Supply • look for the Gulf Oil sign Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm • Saturday 9am-2pm

352.748.6700

The crew was skilled, polite, & professional.

A very well done job!

—Barry and Carolyn Hickman, The Villages

We are very pleased with the product and the crew, they do great work in a timely manner!

—Pete Guido, Leesburg FL “If you’re looking for professionalism, responsiveness, attention to details and a result you will really love, I can only recommend Ted and his crew. His experience and capabilities are very evident in his work. Our friends and neighbors have fallen in love with our floors - we very highly recommend them.”

—Joe and Pat Gruden - The Villages

sUPPLYing tHe needs OF a COMMUnitY Great customer service, competitive pricing, and quality products has made Sparr Building and Farm Supply one of the most successful farm and ranch home center retailers in the state.

S

parr Building and Farm Supply has been a known and trusted name in agriculture throughout Florida for more than 65 years. However, in recent years, Sparr has expanded its reach to fulfill the needs of everyday homeowners while holding on to its tradition of providing high-quality products with genuine service.

“Our dedication to customer service and offering the best brand-name goods to our customers is what sets us apart from our competition,” says Sam Howard, who co-owns and operates Sparr with his brother Paul. “It’s what helped us survive the recession and it’s what continues to help our business grow.”

A BIT OF HISTORY

Sparr has been a family owned and operated business since its humble beginnings. It started in 1947 after Elbert Griggs returned home from fighting in World War II. He and his wife decided to purchase a small grocery store in the small, rural town of Sparr, located 10 miles north of Ocala.

“The original store had gas pumps and groceries. How-

ever, my uncle grew tired of the food spoiling, so one day when my aunt left to visit her brother, my uncle decided to replace all the food with lumber, hardware, and building materials,” says Sam. In 1981, the Howard family purchased the business from their aunt and uncle and immediately set their sights on expanding the business. The growth of their customer base came easy as the community grew and the word spread about Sparr’s impressive and ethical business practices.

As the company continued to establish itself as one of the premier farm and ranch home center stores in Florida, Sparr expanded with the opening of a second store in Williston in 1999 and a third store in Wildwood in 2003.

“We leased a location in downtown Wildwood until we were able to build our big store at its current location across from Brownwood,” says Sam. “We were also able to add more warehouse space and a state-of-the-art lumberyard to our Sparr and Williston stores. This has come as an added benefit to our customers because it has allowed us to give them more choices.”

special advertising feature

SERVING WILDWOOD

The impressive 30,000-square-feet retail space and 30,000-square-feet warehouse at Sparr’s Wildwood location combines all the essentials of a hardware store, lumberyard, and farm supply retailer under one roof, making it a convenient, one-stop shop for those looking for agricultural and household materials.

As the largest farm fence dealer in Florida, as well as one of the largest independent lumber retailers in Florida, Sparr’s Wildwood store offers a full line of lumber and plywood out of its spacious lumberyard, as well as a variety of fencing and building materials.

In addition to finding the right materials to build or maintain your farmstead, Sparr also proudly stocks Purina, Nutrena, and MannaPro feeds for horses, cattle, poultry, and exotic animals like monkeys, tortoise, llamas, and elephants. Since 2001, Sparr has had a six-year run holding the distinction of being the largest Purina horse feed dealer in the United States.

Nevertheless, Sparr not only addresses the needs of the farming community, it also actively serves the residents of The Villages and surrounding communities by offering a wide selection of everyday household products that are perfect for keeping the home running in tip-top shape.

From pet food and light bulbs to state-of-the-art grills and cleaning supplies, Sparr indeed has it all. It also houses a large assortment of Benjamin Moore paints. “We make sure to have everything from pesticides to plumbing in our store.

We’re like a Home Depot meets Tractor Supply but with our own unique mix,” says Sam. “We’re a big company but we still like to preserve that homegrown feel.”

Ensuring the downhome hospitality and great product

selection keeps customers coming back in Wildwood is store manager Tom Buss and his team of knowledgeable employees. “We try to treat customers the way we would want to be treated, and Tom has been instrumental in making that a reality at our Wildwood location,” says Sam. “It has kept our customers loyal over the years, and we appreciate that.”

In addition to being a respected household name in hardware and farm supplies, Sparr is also a leader in giving back to the community. Locally, the company has been involved with youth fairs and Future Farmers of America chapters, as well as the annual county fair. Over the years, Sparr has donated a number of materials to various animal rescue organizations and Habitat for Humanity. Since 1981, Sparr has also donated in excess of one million dollars to local charities and organizations in Marion, Sumter, and Levy counties. The ability to do this is a point of extreme pride.

This speaks volumes about Sparr’s devotion and sense of responsibility to the areas it serves. It’s also why Sparr can proudly proclaim to be a company with celebrated longevity and a level of prominence that continues to garner attention not only in Florida but also throughout the U.S. “We’re not just an overnight sensation,” says Sam. “We have third generation customers whose grandparents shopped in our store when my aunt and uncle owned it. That’s certainly something you don’t find too often in Florida.”

Sparr Building and Farm Supply has three locations that are open Monday–Saturday, 7a.m. to 6p.m. and Sunday, 10a.m. to 4p.m.

6000 Signature Drive, Wildwood, FL 34785, 352.330.1718 13033 N.E. Jacksonville Road, Sparr, FL 32192, 352.622.7063 240 S. Main St., Williston, FL 32696, 352.528.6177

special advertising feature

LIVING OUTDOORS

With gorgeous vistas and nearperfect weather year-round, Florida is just right for

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+MATTHEW GAULIN

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ON HOT SUMMER DAYS,

the dark aquamarine saltwater pool is the place to cool down. Giving the pool its gorgeous hue is its super durable Pebble Tec finish. By having a saltwater instead of chlorine pool, the water not only feels great on the skin, but requires very little maintenance. Both the pool and the raised hot tub can be heated with solar energy or propane gas during the cooler months. \

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Although it’s winter in the beautiful Sunshine State, the livin’ is still easy. While the rest of the country battles snowstorms and frigid temperatures, Floridians can throw on a light sweater and still enjoy the outdoor lifestyle this state epitomizes.

Having a great outdoor space year-round is essential for many people in Florida. Lanais often become an extension of home — or even a conveniently located home away from home.

Dr. Richard and Julie Held find their 911-squarefoot lanai is the perfect place to relax with their children or entertain friends.

“We added this space to our house about a year and half ago because the outdoor patio we had before wasn’t even large enough to fit a table,” says Julie. “My husband and I love

to entertain, so we decided it was time for our outdoor space to match the rest of our house.”

With only a few ideas jotted down on a piece of paper, the Helds enlisted the architectural skills of their friend Judd Dickerson of John S. Dickerson Architect Inc. in Leesburg and contractor Richard Ortengren of Advanced Construction in The Villages to spearhead the project. The expansion of their Harbor Hills home also included an entertainment room, basement, spacious food pantry, and exercise room.

Though the style and color scheme of their lanai conjures up feelings of Tuscany, Julie coyly admits she and her husband had no particular theme in mind when they built the lanai. She is a fan of neutral colors, which explains the use of muted browns, grays, and reds. Richard loves to cook, hence the im-

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The kitchen also features a built-in stainless steel refrigerator with wine drawers, a commercial-grade draft dispenser used to serve Richard’s homebrewed beers, and an impressive wood-burning pizza oven.

THE HELD’S OUTDOOR KITCHEN

is always the bustling epicenter during parties and small get-togethers. It isn’t uncommon to find Richard cooking on his wood pellet grill affectionately called “The General.”

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WHEN IT COMES TO SPENDING QUALITY TIME TOGETHER

Richard, Julie, and their children often move family night outdoors. The Helds found it important to include some home elements in their outdoor sitting space so it could be just as comfortable as their indoor living room.

“Sometimes we’ll cook a pizza, heat up the fireplace, and turn on the television to watch a program or a good movie,” Julie says. “When the weather is really nice, we tend to spend more time out here than in our actual home.”

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pressive outdoor kitchen area. Julie says they focused more on making sure the area had features they would use and that the expansion would blend seamlessly with the rest of the house.

“The best compliment we’ve gotten is from our home’s previous owners who said they couldn’t tell where the old part of the house ended and the new part began,” says Julie.

“This outdoor space has really brought everything together, and we couldn’t be happier with it. The kids love it, we love it, and our friends love it. In my wildest dreams, I would have never thought of having this… but I’m very thankful that we do.”

Green and white fire glass accents the propanepowered fire pit. The green “S” stands for Spartans, the mascot for Michigan State University where Richard and Julie first met and attended college.

The Helds incorporated their love for different hobbies into the space. They installed a small putting green instead of two planters called for in the original design since Julie admits to having a “black thumb.”

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PR

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of a master bedroom that was bigger than your entire first apartment?

Or a master bath where you can enjoy the daily luxuries of a resort suite?

Ever thought you would be worthy…

where you provide your neighbors and friends with cool drinks and warm memories. Maybe it’s the kitchen you promised yourself “someday.” You know, the one you always swore you would build, the one with the exquisite custom cabinets and granite top island that never fails to invoke the most memorable conversations. How can a slab of stone do that?

Maybe it’s the lanai…

during remodel

From coffee-stained napkins with spontaneous sketches and randomly collected color swatches to magazine clippings and photos from places you have visited, you know what you want and we know how to bring it home.

After all, PSL Construction has built its business on building relationships first. We know that to be in the “custom-anything”

business, you first have to be in the “custom-er” business. And to be in the customer business, we know we have to earn your trust, respect, and confidence. Owners Sean and Justine Williams set the tone for the team of PSL project managers who dream your dream with you every step of the way. PSL’s tradesmen are the best in the business, and our office staff

The PSL Construction family prides itself on listening to your wants, your needs, and your budget. We pride ourselves on translating your ideas into dreams and then turning your dreams into reality.

becomes your extended family.

What makes us so committed and confident? It’s not the awards or community recognition. It’s not the heart-warming letters of thanks or countless customer referrals. It’s actually quite simple. We have a dream, too, and we’re living it every day.… And so should you.

your home should reflect you, your personality, your wants, and your desires. It should complement your lifestyle and create an environment that is warm and inviting and makes visiting family feel at home (or, if we have our way, even better than their own home).

We believe…

Tony

Travis

Charles

Justine

Sean

Les

Matt

Mark

4414 NE 83rd Road, Wildwood www.pslconstruction.net 352.330.1817

Brian

You dream it, we’ll build it.

Scan the code and get to know PSL

open here to learn more

open here to learn more

N TW OW O L SE OC RV AT ING IO NS !

Family Owned & Operated • Serving Central Florida for Over 25 Years

TILE • LAMINATE • VINYL • HARDWOOD CARPET • BLINDS • SHUTTERS

352.787.4036 3199 US Highway 441/27, Fruitland Park, FL 34731

352.771.2364 12 Orange Lane, Umatilla FL 32734

US 19 North Across From Beef O’ Brady’s

HOURS OF OPERATION 9AM-5PM MON-FRI • 9AM-2PM SATURDAYS

Fab

FROM DRAB TO

a

d-i-Y

Are some of your beloved wooden tables and chairs starting to look a little shabby and timeworn? Revitalize forgotten furniture with a simple DIY transformation.

FUrnitUre MaKeOver

Putting your own flair into an old piece of furniture or thrift store find is a creative and budget-friendly way to transform unused items into personal treasures.

Refinishing old tables, chairs, and other wooden items can instill new life, making these pieces functional and contemporary once more. Whether you’re repurposing a piece entirely, or simply updating the look, there are a few things to keep in mind.

COLOr: Do you have a specific room in mind to use your selected

piece? If you have a place already chosen, consider a color stain to match the room’s décor. If not, a versatile wood tone may be a better choice.

PrOdUCt: Is this your first project? If so, water-based products

can be a simpler, do-it-yourself (DIY) friendly alternative to oil-based stains and finishes. Will your “new” furniture be in frequent or casual use? To protect from wear and tear on daily-use items, be sure to finish your project with an appropriate sealant or protective coat. Interior stain and sealers offer a protective element built into the product, which provides rich color and tough, durable results.

PreParatiOn: Although you may be eager to put your new

treasure to use, taking time to properly strip and prepare your wood for its new finish will ensure the best results.

This DIY project, created by Beth Hunter, author of the blog “Home Stories A to Z,” shows you how to take a tired, outdated coffee table from attic to amazing in three simple steps.

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tiP:

For a richer color, use the finest sand paper possible to remove as little stain as possible between coats. Apply more layers for a darker look, or only one coat for a distressed look.

• • • • • • •

Chemical stripper Hand-held paint scraper Tack cloths or lint-free rags Rubber gloves Safety glasses Orbital sander with 60-, 120- and 220-grit discs Interior wood stain and sealer product (in the ready-to-use or custom-tinted to your color of choice)

• Painter’s tape • Paintbrush • 300-grit sandpaper

instrUCtiOns:

1. Use a chemical stripper to remove heavy layers of paint, stain, or varnish. Follow the label’s directions, allowing the stripper to sit for the designated amount of time. Then gently scrape and wipe away the residue. Remember, a tack cloth or lint-free rag is important so you don’t leave particles behind.

tiP: Remember to wear gloves approved for chemical handling and eye protec-

tion, and be sure to set up your project in a well-ventilated area. A respirator may be necessary to ensure you don’t inhale too many powerful fumes.

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2. Once your piece has been stripped, wiped clean with a damp rag, and allowed to dry thoroughly, you are ready to sand. Although for some small projects sandpaper sheets will do, you will get the best results using a quality orbital sander (there are many options in the $50 to $100 range, well worth the investment if you’ll be doing more projects in the future). Using the sander, start with a low-grit, coarse sandpaper (60-grit) and work up to the high-grit, fine paper (220grit). The low grit takes off any remaining finish quickly and roughens the wood, while the finer grits smooth the wood and create a pristine surface. After sanding, use a tack cloth to wipe down your piece and remove the dust.

3. Now you are ready to add color. For this project, a series of colors in the Cabot Premium Wood Finish line were used. The products in this line are water-based stain and sealers so they dry quickly, and they are good choices for a person who loves DIY projects because they stain and protect at the same time while providing beautiful results. If you will be using multiple colors, as with this project, tape off areas to make crisp lines. Use a brush to apply the product, and allow to dry as described on the package directions. Use ultra-fine grit sand paper, such as 300-grit, to sand the first coat lightly. Finish with a second coat.

PROVIDED BY: FAMILY FEATURES AND WWW.CABOTSTAIN.COM

sUPPLies:

We know making it easy to find flooring you’ll love.

From our convenient displays to our knowledgeable staff, The Floor Shoppe is dedicated to making your buying experience as simple and enjoyable as possible. We invite you to visit our new showroom where you will find only the finest quality flooring and pavers for your home.

And if you can’t make it in, our design consultants will bring the samples straight to your front door. Call us for an appointment! · Official flooring supplier to The Villages · Only the best quality products and value · A sumptuous array of colors, finishes and design choices · Friendly, experienced, no-pressure staff · Locally owned and operated for 30 years · Outstanding design and installation services

The Floor Shoppe

Family owned & community trusted since 1979

352-748-4811

Wildwood Oaks Business Center | 9815 N. US Hwy 301 | Wildwood Mon – Fri 9:00–5:00, Sat 10:00–2:00

| www.thefloorshoppe.com

Big MONEY

PHOTO: Š SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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

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Big MONEY

ARELLANO REALTY: Karin areLLanO Multimillion dana Fassett Multimillion tHeresa KaY Multimillion steFanee PUCHLOPeK Multimillion sUsie WestBrOOK Multimillion AVALAR REAL ESTATE SERVICES: sHarOn BLaCK Multimillion trisHa BrOWne Multimillion CeLia davis Multimillion COLLeen dOnLevY-BUrns Multimillion dOrreen Landi Multimillion traCie rUFFOLO Multimillion rOBert WaLKer Million BARBARA L. JOHNSON REALTY, INC.: tiMOtHY COndrOn Million JULie HaLL Million BEACON REALSTATE: geraLdine rOsentHaL Multimillion BLACK TIE REAL ESTATE: MarK dYer Multimillion BNB REALTY, INC.: PaULa PUrvis Multimillion BON JORN REAL ESTATE: PaM BOnJOrn Multimillion ginger nareHOOd Multimillion dOLOres steWart Million BUD KEELER CONSULTING: raLPH KeeLer Million CATHERINE HANSON REAL ESTATE: geOrge KittLesOn Million CENTURY 21 CARLINO REALTY: vaLerie BaKer Million diane BrOWn Million CYntHia COLetti Million sandra dedaLis Million PatriCia King Million aLeX vOnHartMan Multimillion CENTURY 21 JOHN C. THOMAS REALTY: KatHi HiLL Multimillion CENTURY 21 PROFESSIONAL GROUP, INC.: CatHLeen MCgratH Multimillion CHARLES RUTENBERG REALTY: deBOraH eLLiOtt Million COLDWELL BANKER ALL VILLAGE REALTY: Margaret rOdrigUeZ Multimillion CarOLe rOHan Million

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Meet your

REALESTATE PROFESSIONALS OF LAKE+SUMTER

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

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

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ERA Tom Grizzard Realtors is the #1 real estate company in Lake and Sumter Counties in both sales volume and total number of transactions. Why? “Constantly evolving the company and staying abreast of the latest real estate trends,” states owner Gus Grizzard. “Collaboration and teamwork are the backbone of the organization. When a customer lists their property with us, not only are they using one member of our team; they are leveraging the resources and tools of our entire team.”

On the horizon for 2014, Grizzard’s team growth strategy includes a greater presence in the South Lake/Clermont area.

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1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150, Leesburg, FL 34748 • 352.787.6966 13710 US Hwy 441, Suite 200, The Villages, FL 32159 • 352.259.4900 600 North Donnelly Street, Mount Dora, FL 32757 • 352.735.4433 tomgrizzard.com special advertising feature

LauriGRIZZARD OWNER/AGENT, CRS

You could say that real estate is in Lauri Grizzard’s blood. Both of her parents were in real estate and Lauri was introduced to the business at an early age. Lauri started selling real estate in 1994 and, for the past 20 years, has loved every minute of it. Lauri is a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and prides herself on staying on top of the latest marketing trends and tools.

“What I love most about real estate is that every day is different — different people, different challenges, and different opportunities. Whether working with first-time homebuyers, families relocating, or customers downsizing, I enjoy being a part of those chapters in their lives.”

“Real estate is a relationship business and I’m great at building relationships!”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.267.1420 lagrizzard@tomgrizzard.com laurigrizzard.com

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Linda

GRIZZARD REALTOR , CRS, SFR ®

After dedicating the past five years to general real estate, Linda Grizzard is excited to be returning to her specialty: waterfront, luxury and distinctive homes.

“I love this area of real estate,” she says.

“Because I’ve worked in this area for 40 years, it’s nice when I can help my clients explore the nooks and crannies of this county and find that hidden gem to make their home.”

Linda attributes her success as a Realtor to her love for people and her desire to cater to her clients’ needs. “I try to talk with people and get inside their minds so I can know how best to help them,” she says. “I want to get to know my clients on both a professional and personal level.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.504.0085 ligrizzard@tomgrizzard.com lindagrizzard.com

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JimRICHARDSON REALTOR , CDPE ®

From first-time homebuyers to financially distressed homeowners and everyone in between, Jim Richardson has worked with a diverse group of clients since becoming a Realtor with ERA Tom Grizzard in 2009. Jim has been a multimillion-dollar producer each year since 2010. He is a certified distressed property expert and one of his specialties is short sales, which means he helps homeowners in distress sell their homes for less than what they owe on their mortgage. Short sales help clients avoid foreclosure and salvage some of their credit rating.

“I always try to think outside the box to help some live the American dream and help others get on with their lives.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.874.7606 jrichardson@tomgrizzard.com jimrichardsonrealtor.com

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With extensive knowledge of the local housing market, Cindy Wheeler is a trusted real estate professional who passionately helps clients buy and sell homes. Cindy, who has been a Realtor in Lake County since 1994, takes a great deal of pride in providing the highest level of service and forming meaningful relationships with clients. Those qualities explain why she has won multiple national awards since joining the ERA team.

“Buying or selling a home can be stressful, so as a Realtor I try to make it as fun as possible,” says Cindy, who has been a multimillion-dollar producer each year since 1999 and proudly serves Lake and Sumter counties and The Villages.

Cindy

WHEELER REALTOR

®

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.255.6032 cwheeler@tomgrizzard.com

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IraMILLER REALTOR

®

Ira Miller has been a real estate agent in and around The Villages for 14 years.

“Through experience and passion for results, I match my clients with the ideal home. I am committed to providing quality service and that is why the bulk of my business stems from repeat clients.”

Those repeat clients also call Ira to list their homes when they are ready to upgrade to a larger home or downsize to a more manageable one. They trust Ira with their most valuable asset.

For 2012, Ira received the “Realtor of The Year” award for ERA/Tom Grizzard’s Villages office. Last year, he earned ERA’s most prestigious “Leaders Circle” award, which recognizes the company’s highest-ranking producers throughout the country in real estate sales. In addition, he was #1 again in ERA/Tom Grizzard’s Villages office for 2013.

13710 US Hwy 441, Suite 200 The Villages, FL 32159 352.454.9561 imiller@tomgrizzard.com homesaroundthevillages.com

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For Cheryl Hilty, working in real estate isn’t just about helping people sell and buy homes. It’s about good customer service that leaves a lasting impression. “I try to treat each customer like they’re my only customer,” she says. “I am a strong believer that if you work hard and treat your clients well you will be rewarded.”

A real estate agent since 1986, Cheryl specializes in retirement homes and waterfront properties.

“I fell in love with the interconnecting lakes in Lake County and built a modest Key West style home on Lake Eustis in 2005. I enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and jet skiing on the chain of lakes.

Every morning I look out at the lake and think of the saying (If you’re lucky enough to live on the lake...you’re lucky enough!) I truly enjoy helping people discover the many joys of waterfront living!

CherylHILTY

REO, ALHS, CLHS, CSP

600 North Donnelly Street Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.638.5688 lakecountylakefront@hotmail.com mountdorawaterfronthomes.com

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GloriaTABOR REALTOR , GRI ®

Gloria Tabor’s life is all about faith, family, career and being a frequent visitor to Disney World, because the ‘magical’ theme parks are places where dreams come true.

That’s ironic, because as a Realtor with ERA Tom Grizzard, Gloria has made the dreams of homeownership come true for thousands of clients. She goes above and beyond to help clients discover their dream home.

“People tell me I take the time to listen to what they want,” says Gloria, who has been a multimillion-dollar producer every year since becoming a Realtor in 2004.

“My mission is to fulfill their dreams and wishes.”

13710 US Hwy 441, Suite 200 The Villages, FL 32159 352.209.7171 Gloria@gloriatabor.com www.gloriatabor.com

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JelPARKER REALTOR

®

After a successful career as an attorney, Jel Parker took her knack for negotiation and has crafted it into an equally successful real estate career.

With 11 years of experience under her belt and the distinction of being a multimillion-dollar producer, Jel utilizes her skills as a problem solver to help her clients achieve success. As a result, she continuously receives positive feedback.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some wonderful people who are buying or selling their homes.

I feel a sense of responsibility to my customers who have entrusted me with, in many cases, their most important financial asset.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.409.5738 jelparker@aol.com jparker.tomgrizzard.com

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RoxanneLOGAN REALTOR , SRES, GREEN ®

Roxanne Logan isn’t your conventional Realtor. With her Harley named “Therapy” and effervescent personality, she’s an advocate for thinking outside the box, and her career in real estate allows her to flex her creative muscle.

“I love the diversity of real estate. It’s never the same day to day, hour to hour, minute to minute,” says the central New York native. “I love helping people move forward whether they are buying or selling a home.”

In addition to being a multimillion-dollar producer and senior real estate specialist (SRES), Roxanne is a NAR Green designee, meaning she has received advanced training in green building and sustainable business practices so she can help clients seek out, understand, and market properties with green features.

600 N Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.636.1127 roxanne.logan@hotmail.com roxannelogan.com

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LisaJONES REALTOR , CDPE, GRI, SFR ®

Bitten by the real estate bug after successfully flipping houses, Lisa Jones decided to become a Realtor. Starting out in a depressed market presented a challenge, but enabled her to focus her attention on one important task: learning to do the business the right way.

With a passion for problem-solving, Lisa plunged into the niche market of short sales. “I have helped families avoid foreclosure and enabled them to get a fresh start.”

Nowadays, as the market continues to improve, Lisa has been helping former short sale clients achieve the goal of homeownership again.

“I’m happy to see people bounce back,” she says, “and I love helping them have another chance at the American dream.”

600 North Donnelly Street Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.250.3320 ljones@tomgrizzard.com myownfloridahome.com

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MistyNOLAND REALTOR , REO, CDPE, SRES ®

Growing up, Misty Noland admired her grandparents’ real estate prowess.

“My grandfather went from being poor to being well off. He was so good he could tell what a piece of property was worth just by looking at it.”

Wanting a career that would challenge her and allow her to reap the benefits of her own hard work, Misty honed her own skills to become an accomplished Realtor.

From listings to buyers, she does it all. And with an eye for detail, Misty not only helps her clients achieve their dreams, she also makes sure they receive their money’s worth, whether someone is buying or selling.

“I love helping people. When I work with someone, I want them to feel like it was their best experience.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.255.2502 mistynoland@gmail.com mistynoland.com

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MarilynMORRIS REALTOR , QSC, SRES ®

When it comes finding the adult community of your dreams, Marilyn Morris has the tools to make the process stress-free.

A multimillion-dollar producer with a senior real estate specialist (SRES) designation, Marilyn helps retirees grow accustom to living the Florida lifestyle. She goes beyond just helping the newly retired find their perfect home; Marilyn also acts as a personal guide, assisting her

clients find everything they need while they adjust to their new surroundings.

Her dedication is why Marilyn was named Leesburg ERA Tom Grizzard’s “Realtor of the Year” in 2012. “I provide quality customer service that doesn’t end at the closing table. I recognize what people want and provide the necessary resources to make their transition seamless.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.396.3565 mmorris@tomgrizzard.com marilynmorris.com

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TammyFREILICH LICENSED REALTOR , CDPE, SRES ®

Whether it is downsizing or relocating, Tammy Freilich possesses the necessary experience to help seniors with all their real estate needs. A consistent multimillion-dollar producer since she began her real estate career, Tammy utilizes her skills by working with residents of The Villages and surrounding areas.

“I enjoy working with people who are retiring and beginning a new phase in their lives,” she says. “For me, it is exciting to help them find the ideal home so they can start that new phase.”

As a respected real estate agent with ERA Tom Grizzard, Tammy prides herself on representing clients with professionalism and providing each one with personal attention.

13710 US Hwy 441, Suite 200 The Villages, FL 32159 352.414.8473 shohorses@gmail.com HomesInTheVillagesFlorida.com

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SharonWOOTEN REALTOR , SFRS, CDPE ®

Since becoming a Realtor in 2006, one of Sharon Wooten’s favorite memories was finding a nice, safe home for a young couple living in a hazardous situation.

“To see the joy on their faces the day they moved in was priceless,” says Sharon, who works with ERA Tom Grizzard. “They were happy to have a better place to raise their

two children. Moments like those make real estate so rewarding.”

Sharon, a multimillion-dollar producer, handles each transaction with honesty and integrity. “It’s not about the big sale. I guide clients throughout the home-buying process and genuinely want them to be happy.”

1300 Citizens Blvd., Suite 150 Leesburg, FL 34748 352.255.6115 swooten@tomgrizzard.com sharonandrichardwooten.com

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Being a successful real estate agent in today’s market takes passion and a lot of hard work, but Theresa Morris and her daughter Lena Williams would not have it any other way. They both share a passion for providing the best real estate experience possible for all clients who choose

Morris Realty and Investments. Moreover, both are lifelong Lake County residents and possess a great deal of hometown pride.

These ladies realize the key to success stems from upholding the company’s motto: “Integrity.

Experience. Results.”

Theresa

Lena

MORRIS

WILLIAMS

BROKER/OWNER

REALTOR

®

352.636.4488 lena@morrisrealtors.com lenasells.com

“Most of our business is from repeat customers who know they can trust us,” Lena says.

Theresa, Lena and all of the agents at Morris Realty and Investments are here to assist with all of your residential and commercial real estate needs.

10135 Highway 441, Suite 3, Leesburg, Florida 34788 10935 SE 177th Place, Suite 207, Summerfield, FL 34491

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“Theresa sells property every 29 working hours” 352.360.3736 theresa@morrisrealtors.com morrisrealtors.com

With more than 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Trisha Browne delivers outstanding results to her clients.

Although she possesses experience in all areas of real estate, including residential, she now specializes in commercial real estate in South Lake County. As an agent with Avalar, she focuses on commercial leasing, sales, and land acquisition for retail, medical, and industrial clients.

Armed with an upbeat personality and positive attitude, Trisha received the Greater Lake County Association of Realtors’ Rookie of the Year award in 2006. She continued her success by becoming a consistent million/multimilliondollar producer and one of the company’s top agents.

Trisha

BROWNE REALTOR

®

17301 Pagonia Rd. Suite 300 Clermont, FL 34711 352.267.1037 trisha@avalarinclermont.com avalarinclermont.com

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ConnieMAHAN

BROKER/OWNER

Every day, Connie Mahan and company roll up their sleeves and get to work in the business of selling real estate. From being open seven days a week to creating property specific marketing plans, their level of commitment to both craft and customer is clear.

“We take as much of the guesswork out of the equation as possible,” Connie says. “We are very proactive on the front end of each transaction, specializing in identifying the nuances of every situation in order to effectively achieve our customer’s desired results.”

The company earned Sumter County Small Business of the Year in 2012 and in 2013, Connie was named Sumter County Business Woman of the Year.

218 N Florida Street, Suite 1 Bushnell, Fl 33513 352.569.0233 Info.cmreg@gmail.com conniemahan.com

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Micki

BLACKBURN

BROKER/OWNER

Micki Blackburn is a popular name in the local real estate industry. She began her career as a part-time Realtor in 1972 and 22 years later, opened Micki Blackburn Realty in Clermont.

Her keen business sense, upbeat personality, community-minded spirit, and visionary leadership have helped the company become one of the county’s most proficient real estate firms. As the matriarch of the company that bears her name, Micki is proud of her close-knit staff and the office’s family-like atmosphere.

“We work together better than any place that I have ever seen,” she says.

Micki Blackburn Realty has offices in Clermont, Webster, and Mascotte.

The Webster office is managed by Dale Odom, who has been with the company for 15 years.

450 East Hwy. 50 Clermont, FL 34711 352.394.6611 (Clermont) 352.793.8084 (Webster) micki@mickirealty.com mickirealty.com

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DoeleneBROWN DonaMarieNOSSE REALTOR

®

REALTOR

®

After a life of raising children and being selfless parents, it’s nice when a couple can enter retirement and begin living for themselves. “As parents, we put everything on hold for our family,” says Doelene Brown. “So when you retire, it becomes all about you, and I love helping retirees begin this new chapter in life.”

A multimillion-dollar producer, Doelene takes pride in weaving the dreams of those who want to make The Villages their new home. “It’s so nice when you help someone find a home they love,” she says. “You see their faces light up and that’s when you know you’ve done your job well.”

They say that the best form of advertisement is word-of-mouth. That has certainly been true for DonaMarie Nosse, who has been a Florida Realtor for 10 years and currently works with Foxfire Realty. Going the extra mile for clients is one reason she has built her business on referrals and repeat customers.

“Selling your home can be stressful, so I guide my clients every step of the way and consistently re-evaluate my marketing strategies to get their home sold for the best price in the least amount of time,” she says. “I am very detail-oriented and am a big believer in communications, not only to keep my clients informed, but to make them feel taken care of.”

DonaMarie focuses on all areas of residential real estate, including 55+ communities, waterfront homes, and oceanfront homes.

“If you’re looking for Quality Service with Results, look to DonaMarie.”

REAL Experience. REAL Results. Your REALTOR®

11714 NE 62nd Terrace, Suite 300, The Villages, FL 32162 352.408.3004 doelenebrown@comcast.net • doelenesellsthevillages.com

126 North Highway 27, Lady Lake, Florida 32159 352.209.0333 donamarie@thevillagesliving.com • thevillagesliving.com

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city series STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”

CLERMONT GEM OF THE HILLS //

Clermont is a city with many faces. If you view the thousands of rooftops from the Highway 27 or Florida Turnpike interchanges, it appears to be a bedroom community for commuters into Orlando.

If you exit Highway 27 and go east on State Road 50, Clermont’s athletic side appears with the National Training Center complex.

Travel west along SR-50 for few miles and there is the city’s picturesque, historic side — the face of Clermont that many of its newest residents rarely, if ever, have seen.

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY: MARY ANN DESANTIS OTHER PHOTOS BY: FRED LOPEZ + MATTHEW GAULIN

VITAL STATS FOUnded:1884 inCOrPOrated: 1916 POPULatiOn: 30,201 (2013) siZe: 14.9 square miles (June 2013) source: city of clermont

PUBLIC OFFICIALS CitY Manager: Darren Gray MaYOr: Harold turville Jr. COUnCiL MeMBers: ray Goodgame, Keith Mullins, timothy Bates, rick Van Wagner POLiCe CHieF: charles Broadway Fire CHieF: carle l. Bishop

.com

S Lake Trail (Lake Mineola Scenic Trail) W Osceola St.

THE DOWNTOWN CLERMONT FARMERS MARKET IS HELD EVERY SUNDAY FROM 9A.M. UNTIL 2P.M. ON MONTROSE STREET.

Minneola Dr.

CLerMOnt’s HistOriC viLLage THIS SEVEN-BUILDING COMPLEX AT THE CORNER OF WEST AVENUE AND OSCEOLA STREET OFFERS A GLIMPSE INTO CLERMONT’S PAST.

Lake Ave.

W Desota St.

7th St.

W Montrose St.

8th St.

West Ave.

St.St. 10st 10th

Minneola Dr.

FarMers MarKet

CitY HaLL CITY LEADERS ARE BUSY PLANNING FOR CLERMONT’S W Juniata St BRIGHT FUTURE AS ONE OF SOUTH LAKE’S TOP DESTINATIONS.

Center Lake

Lake Ave.

7th St.

8th St.

West Ave.

10th St.

W Broome St.

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city series // CLERMONT STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”

Warm weather, beautiful lakes, and rolling hills — a rarity in Florida — have drawn people to South Lake’s southernmost city for generations. The story is the same whether talking about pioneers from Georgia who settled the area in 1852 or modern-day triathlon athletes looking for a year-round training ground or transplants looking for a laidback community away from stressful jobs in the city. Early on, it was described as the “gem” in Florida’s hill country, and that description continues to entice new residents. Since the turn of the 21st century, Clermont became one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida with a population growth rate that increased by

more than 215 percent, according to citydata.com. [Source: www.city-data.com/ city/Clermont-Florida.html] The area’s natural scenery was a jewel in disguise for early settlers. Life was hard in the area that the U.S. government had deemed as “swamp and overflowed,” before granting it to Florida in 1850.

Swampland did not deter early pioneers who emigrated — mostly from Georgia — to homestead the land in 1852. Tomatoes and cattle were much more predominant than citrus until the 20th century. In fact, Clermont was the “tomato capital” of Florida until deep freezes during the winter of 1894-95 decimated the crops.

Many residents left for work elsewhere,

KEEPING MAMA HAPPY

The infamous Ma Barker Gang robbed the former Citizens Bank in Clermont not once, but twice. The first time was in December 1930 and employees were herded into the vault, which had been rigged to open from the inside. The employees escaped and called police, but the two bandits with false mustaches and motorcycle goggles got away. The Barker Gang returned in June 1931 around closing time.

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but the timber and turpentine industry soon followed. By the 1920s, hundreds of citrus trees were planted and a short time later the Clermont Fruit Company formed.

Citrus was on its way to becoming the new cash crop.

When World War II ended in 1945, veteran Charles Konsler decided to join his brother in Clermont to start a welding and steel fabricating business. He remembers seeing the land being cleared to make way for even more citrus groves.

“Clermont had not come into its greatness yet,” said the veteran pilot, who flew 74 missions over Germany during the war.

“There have been a lot of changes since I arrived… mostly good ones but others not

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Missions flown over Germany

by Clermont resident Charles Konsler who volunteers at the Historic Village’s WWII Museum.

so much.” Konsler was among the Clermont residents who watched both the rise and the fall of the citrus industry. Like the tomato farmers, the citrus growers were also victims of Florida’s unpredictable winters.

“The freezes of 1983, 1985, and 1989 changed the character of Clermont,” says Ann Dupee, a Clermont resident since 1967 and the former owner and publisher of the South Lake Press. “Those freezes were

FUNFACT

The Mediterranean-style Alice McClelland Bandshell is one of only two historic bandshells remaining in Florida. The other is in Daytona Beach.

so bad you could hear the trees break, and it killed the orange groves.”

After the first freeze in ‘83, growers replanted; then in ’85, more trees were wiped out.

After the 1989 freeze, most didn’t replant and the groves sat vacant. Landowners were selling and developers were buying.

“We weren’t paying much attention,” says Dupee. “The turnpike entrance onto the east-west expressway made it accessible for people from Orlando to come this way. Prices were lower and they could get more house.

However, schools got too crowded; it was tragic.”

Today, Clermont’s community leaders are paying more attention and creating a vision for the future that encompasses what both new and longtime residents want.

Arts and entertainment are high on the list and the City of

Clermont recently bought the 69,000-square-foot Celebration of Praise Church just off Highway 27. It will become the largest banquet facility in Lake County and will be a new venue for groups needing the 250-seat auditorium.

“The city is at the beginning stages of assessing the best use of the property,” says City Manager Darren Gray. “In January, the City Council approved having architects create formal plans for building a new police department at the site, using part of the structure that is already there. The amenities that came with the property, including the adult and children’s swimming pools, basketball court and the largest auditorium in Lake County, all offer many exciting opportunities.”

Clermont is not the agricultural center it once

was, but the city is embracing its residential growth and commercial development.

The downtown area is experiencing robust commerce, especially with the expansion of the popular Sunday morning Farmers Market. It also hopes to become one of Lake County’s top destinations for people looking for things to do.

“The city plans to continue to make our downtown and waterfront park areas a priority. Through the visioning process conducted in 2013, the community made it clear that the arts and entertainment are high priorities,” adds Gray. “As we move into the next phase, with branding and master planning, we definitely will be incorporating arts and entertainment into our plans.”

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city series // CLERMONT STYLE’s guide to the places we call “home”

WaLK tHrOUgH HistOrY Clermont’s unique history. Clermont’s historian “emeritus” Delores Gano Walker, whose grandfather came to Clermont in 1878, says many new residents have never visited Clermont’s Historic Village. “When they hear about it and come to see us, they are fascinated by the village,” she says.

The largest structures are houses that belonged to two of Clermont’s earliest families.

The Townsend House, built in 1895, belonged to James and Sallie Townsend, the first AfricanAmerican residents to settle in Clermont. The Kern

House, built in 1885, belonged to Alexander Kern, one of Clermont’s original pioneers who built and operated the town’s first public water system.

Other original buildings include the Cooper Memorial Library (1914), Clermont’s railroad depot (1925), and a WWII Quonset hut. Two buildings are replicas, including a schoolhouse and an outhouse, which is reported to be the most photographed building in Lake County.

PHOTO BY TONY DESANTIS

Just because Clermont is looking to its future doesn’t mean it has forgotten its past.

Clermont’s Historic Village, a cooperative effort of the South Lake Historical Society and the City of Clermont, is a unique setting where visitors literally walk through history. Five original historic buildings have been moved to the parklike complex and are open for free tours.

Located at the corner of West Avenue and Osceola Street next to Lake Minneola, the buildings and furnishings offer a glimpse into

COOPER LIBRARY HISTORIC VILLAGE

HISTORIC VILLAGE WWII MUSEUM

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A LITTLE GIRL’S DREAMHOUSE

The Clermont Train Depot was built on the shores of Lake Minneola.

HISTORIC VILLAGE TRAIN DEPOT

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Belle Kuperinsky was a popular lady in Clermont.

She made exquisite, detailed dollhouses that were replicas of her clients’ homes. An example of her work — and a replica of her own home — is displayed in the Kerns House in Clermont’s Historic Village.

Photo by Helen A. Lockey - helenalockey.blogspot.com/2012/09/lakeridge-vineyards-florida-dry-wines.html

A TOAST OF ITS OWN

Have sOMe FUn

*

226 feet The height of the Citrus Tower.

an earLY BeaCOn One of Florida’s first landmarks, the Citrus Tower, stands 500 feet above sea level. Built in 1956, the tower was a tribute to Central Florida’s citrus industry, and it once offered a glass blowing studio, alligator wrestling, and amphibious rides to nearby lakes. Today, it’s considered a beacon for the future.

SOURCES: SOUTH LAKE HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND SOUTH LAKE PRESS CENTENNIAL EDITION, DEC. 18, 2013.

sOUtH LaKe BiCYCLe traiL

Also known as the Lake Minneola Scenic Trail, it is a rails-to-trails adventure that takes bicyclists and hikers through some of the most majestic scenery in Lake County. It’s a workout though, with hills that can be challenging for weekend warriors.

CLerMOnt WaterFrOnt BiKes and BOards No bike, no problem. Just rent one right near the trail. The City of Clermont awarded Tim Engle a five-year contract to operate the city’s bike, paddleboard, and kayak concessions at Clermont’s waterfront.

read aLL aBOUt it

The South Lake Press, the area’s newspaper, debuted in 1913 as the Clermont Clarion. Publisher W.E. Rorabaugh was a transplant from Des Moines, Iowa. Price of an annual subscription was $1.25.

OLYMPiC ideaLs

The National Training Center, open since 2001 in Clermont, is the home base of some of the nation’s most accomplished amateur and professional athletes. Dozens of Olympians have trained there, including Tyson Gay, the former American record holder in the 100-meter dash and 2012 silver medalist.

MOOnLigHt PLaYers

Clermont’s award-winning theatrical troupe is beginning its 20th year with productions like “Man of La Mancha,” “South Pacific,” and “On Golden Pond.”

President’s HaLL OF FaMe

It may sound a little kitschy but this wax museum serves as a tribute to U.S. presidents. Don’t miss the miniature replica of the White House, which has traveled the country since 1976 and just returned home two years ago.

Clermont’s Lakeridge Winery is the largest premium winery in Florida with 127 acres and a 28,000-squarefoot building. The winery can produce up to 1,500 cases per day.

Pig On tHe POnd FestivaL (MarCH 7–9)

This sanctioned barbecue competition and festival has been an annual tradition in Clermont since 1998.

tHe trUe Center OF FLOrida

The intersection of State Road 50 and Highway 27 is the exact center of Florida.

From that point, it is equidistant from the east and west coasts and from the northern and

CHECK OUT THE LATEST CITY SERIES ON catch us on LSTV on Bright House channel 199 and comcast channel 31.

Tuesday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Thursday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Saturday: 10a.m. and 10p.m.

Sunday: 11a.m. and 5:30p.m.

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Featuring

livin’ easy on the lanai Page 8

Until Tuesday

Book Club learns about PTSD in a different way Page 14 Plus

the landscape and garden club is blossoming Page 4

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

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meet a villager story: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: Provided

Keith Adee first automobile and what it meant: I had a 1935 Ford convertible. The car was 15 years old when I purchased it and was in perfect condition. I paid $1,500, which was exactly what it cost new in 1935. The first day I drove to school I was “king of the hill.”

Favorite destination: Italy because the countryside is gorgeous and the people are beautiful. They also have Italian food there!

Favorite food: Italian, then Italian, and then more Italian. My wife is the best cook alive, and she keeps an Italian kitchen. “Hey Pisan. Watzup? Si down… have some pasta e fagioli.”

Your hometown and what makes it great: I am from Averill Park, N.Y. It had one grocery store, one ice cream parlor, one gas station, one drive-in, and one barber shop… and 600 people. It was a great place to grow up.

Charitable Involvement: I own Villages1.com, a website developed exclusively for The Villages.

We donate eight ounces of food to local food banks for every new visitor to our site. We have tons of information online for residents, and the site received 5 million page views during the past year.

As a result, lots of food was delivered to the needy. Page viewers make the sponsors ecstatic.

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CLUB OF THE MONTH story: JAMES COMBS PHOTOs: Mary Ann Desantis and provided

Rooted in beauty Norm Isbell is no stranger to creating efficient, eyecatching, and inspirational landscape designs.

A native of California, his vast experience in the industry is impressive. After earning a degree in ornamental horticulture in 1963 from California State Polytechnic University, he worked at botanical wonderlands such as the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, as well as Descanso Gardens, which contains the country’s largest collection of camellias. As owner of his own landscape business, Norm spent six months landscaping streets in the popular seaside community of Marina Del Rey. He has also shared his knowledge of landscape design as a teacher at various public schools and colleges throughout California.

“I’ve always had a passion for natural beauty,” he says.

For Norm, a resident of The Villages, that passion burns stronger than ever. That’s one reason why he went back to his roots and launched the Landscape and Garden Club in October 2011. Today, the club has blossomed to 300 members who meet on the third Monday of every month inside Laurel Manor Recreation Center.

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“Unlike other garden clubs around here, our emphasis is on landscape design,” Norm says. “For instance, we may have a guest speaker share how citrus can be aesthetically pleasing rather than discussing how bugs and freezes affect citrus. I provide club members with choices and different ways of looking at landscape and gardening.”

One way he accomplishes that is through the club’s “Let’s Talk Landscape” program.

Norm and other members will visit a person’s home, tour the property, and discuss the successes and failures of the landscape design. “We then have a brainstorming session on how to improve the landscape,” Norm says.

“This is also good for the other members who attend because they can pick up tips on improving their own landscape designs.”

Another component of the club is the “Landscape of the Month” award where a Villager is recognized at the club meeting for maintaining an aesthetically pleasing yard. “In the beginning, we would drive around and find these yards,” Norm says. “Nowadays, we receive referrals, mostly from homeowners themselves.”

Last fall, the club entered the charitable arena when

members held a 10-home landscape garden tour.

The event raised $2,500, which was used to provide scholarship money to area high school and college students studying an area of horticulture. Norm also conducts two tours each year where he and club members board a bus and visit a garden in Florida.

For more information about the club, please call Norm Isbell at 352.750.2895.

“… I’m a people person and I love landscape design.

Therefore, being part of this club offers me the best of both worlds.”

— Norm Isbell

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this ‘n’ that story: Fred Hilton

2014 Peacock Vows

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My Peacock Vows: • I will use the treadmill for something other than a place to hang clothes.

• I will exercise more by bowling, golfing, swinging the tennis racket, playing basketball, and many other sports — as long as the Nintendo Wii continues to work.

• I will cut back on sweets. Wait, is that cake?

• I will stop blaming the dryer for my clothes not fitting.

• As a kid, I always blamed the dog for eating my homework. Now, I will stop blaming the dog for certain noises and odors.

• I will actually laugh out loud when I type “LOL” on Facebook.

• I will claim my fat dog as a tax dependent.

• I will remove the tag from a mattress.

• I will read the operator’s manual — as soon as I find it.

• When someone says, “Pull my finger,” I won’t do it.

• I will take part in a 10K race — if they let me use my golf cart.

• I will remove the voodoo curse of carnivorous love bugs that I’ve been trying to put on the grump down the street who yelled obscenities at me when my fat dog peed in his yard.

• I will leave the toilet seat up… or is it down?

• I will not start stories with “back in the day.”

• I will learn to pronounce the names of all my medications.

However, the greatest answer to questions about New Year’s resolutions was given by that renowned philosopher, Calvin.

Not the French theologian John Calvin but Calvin, the little kid in the brilliant and much-missed comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes” by Bill Watterson. Calvin’s buddy, a tiger named Hobbes, is a stuffed animal to everyone else but to Calvin he is a real tiger.

In one strip, Hobbes suggested that Calvin needed to make New Year’s resolutions and Calvin blew up: “Just what are you implying? That I need to change? Well, buddy, as far as I’m concerned, I’m perfect the way I am!”

Calvin, you may be little but you “da man”!

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

Photo illustration by Anthony Casto

Now that it is February, many of you are probably realizing that New Year’s resolutions are clearly the second greatest source of lies on the planet. The No. 1 source: the White House. This is a non-partisan slam; it applies equally to anyone who has occupied the White House — Republicans, Democrats, Whigs, whatever. All occupants of the White House have a tendency to play a little loose with the truth and more often than not, a lot loose. The only exceptions are Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, who were both too cool to tell lies. George Washington didn’t lie either, but he never lived in the White House so he doesn’t qualify.

There is nothing new about making resolutions. They have been made and broken for centuries. The ancient Babylonians made promises to their gods at the start of each year that they would pay their debts. Now that is a novel idea: paying your debts. Suggest that to any of those truth-bending guys who live in the White House and their heads would explode.

In the medieval days, knights took the “peacock vow” to re-assert their commitment and dedication to chivalry. The idea of chivalry also would make the heads of many people explode. But “peacock vow” does have a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? Maybe we wouldn’t break peacock vows so easily.

I certainly have no problem breaking a New Year’s resolution, but I would have to think twice about violating a peacock vow.

Maybe it is just a sign that we are more committed to lying today than in past, but the number of people who make New Year’s resolutions is on the upswing. In the early 1930s, only about a fourth of American adults made New Year’s resolutions. Today, about 40 percent of us make them. And, according to a recent survey, nearly 90 percent of us fail to keep them — and usually by the end of February they are completely forgotten.

There is no question that I’m with the majority on this one.

I have made dozens of resolutions and have managed, with relative ease, to break every single one of them — with one exception. In 1990, I fulfilled my resolution to quit smoking.

However, I had broken the no-smoking resolution for 14 consecutive years before that. Quitting smoking created a brand new perennial resolution: to lose weight. This will be my 24th straight year to shatter that resolution.

With that said, I’d like to put forth my peacock vows for 2014. These lend themselves to be used by others in The Villages who fall into a certain popular demographic category.

(Saying “old” bothers me.)

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Livin’ Easy on the Lanai Story: Leigh Neely Photos: Fred Lopez + Matthew gaulin

When looking at the vista of Lake Miona from Gary and Judy Curbow’s lanai, it brings to mind lazy days of summer, enjoying time on the water, and creating family memories.

“I knew when I came in here and saw the view that this was the house for us,” Judy says with a smile. “Let me show you why.”

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She points to a picture on the wall of their bedroom that features a view amazingly similar to the one they see every day now. The picture, however, is of the James River and is the one they enjoyed from their home of 40 years in Newport News, Va. It was there they raised their three daughters and it was the home they thought they’d always own.

It was only natural that the peaceful waters of Lake Miona and the serene surroundings in the area attracted them to a new retirement home in The Villages. The long pier heading out into the water created an extension of their outdoor lifestyle.

“We love being out here,” Judy says. “We entertain at the end of the pier as much as we do on the lanai.”

The spectacular water view enticed them away from a golf course view at their first retirement home in The Village of Virginia Trace, where they had lived the life of snowbirds since 2009. “We’re both big golfers, and we had never lived on a golf course before,” Judy says. “We really enjoyed it and began staying down here longer and longer. Then one day Gary asked if we had to go back.”

That called for a big decision. Soon they had their home in Virginia up for sale and planned to make a permanent move to The Villages.

“The Realtor called and said she had a house she thought I would love,” Judy says, “but I wasn’t sure I wanted to leave the golf course.”

However, when she saw the view of Lake Miona from the home they now have in The Village of Bridgeport, that all changed. Someone else had put down a deposit, but the Curbows went on the waiting list. When that deal fell through, Judy got another call.

“Gary was on the golf course when the Realtor called and said it was available. I told her to hold it for us. I called Gary and when he got home, I put a bottle of champagne in the golf cart and said, ‘I’ve got something I want to show you.’” Judy laughs. “For a while, we were dealing with three houses!”

Fortunately, the other two houses soon sold and the house on Lake Miona quickly became “home” with the addition of furniture, photos, and decor from Virginia.

The couple recently added a sitting room to the master bedroom, so they could have a fireplace. The glass-enclosed room features a sofa and two leather recliners that swivel so they can watch the fireplace or enjoy the view across the shimmering water.

Building this addition, however, meant they needed

“We love being out here. We entertain at the end of the pier as much as we do on the lanai.”

-Judy Curbous to expand the lanai. There was already a pool in place, and room for eating and chaise lounges, but the Curbows wanted a waterfall beside the pool. Judy also wanted a summer kitchen because all they had was the large grill. She wanted to be able to prepare meals and still be in the midst of the gathering.

The waterfall adds a tropical air to the pool, especially with the plants and rocks behind it. The summer kitchen faces the pool, providing a clear view of the entire lanai, which expanded to be even with the new sitting room. The theme is comfort on the water, and they continued with the Travertine stone from the original lanai. The seating area next to the outdoor kitchen contains wicker furniture that belonged to Judy’s grandparents. “I can still see my grandfather sitting in that rocking chair.” Judy says.

They had the furniture dipped in auto paint some 30 years ago, and they use it regularly.

“I brought it out here because I thought it would be worn out soon anyway, but it still looks great.”

The summer kitchen took about 18 months to complete. The sturdy kitchen cabinets, made completely from recycled materials, house a stainless steel refrigerator and a sink.

The grill faces the counter for convenience.

Dan Watson was their contractor through T&D Pool & Spa Construction.

He now works with T&D Distribution, Inc. He says the trend for summer kitchens has risen steadily in the past few years.

“Outdoor living has grown to incorporate a lot of elements,” Dan says.

“It now includes many different items and larger grill capacities.”

Dan says using the outdoor kitchen is mostly a seasonal activity done primarily in the fall and winter months. “When the weather is very hot and humid, outdoor entertaining is generally limited to pool use,” Dan says.

Judy and Gary each had something special added to the plans when working with Dan on the design.

Judy had a stone path added in the foliage behind

the waterfall, where she has her secret herb garden.

Basil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and oregano thrive in the humid atmosphere, and Judy has easy access for trimming and working on the plants.

During a visit to a piece of property they own near Spring City, Tenn., Gary found a stone and brought it back to Florida. It was installed in the waterfall.

“Now I have a little bit of Tennessee right here,” says Gary, who is originally from Polk County in The Volunteer State.

“We get all kinds of special requests. People have a

tendency to bring mementos from their home, and we’re accustomed to that,” Dan says. “We are always happy to accommodate the customer.”

The Curbows are avid kayakers and belong to The Villages Canoe and Kayak Club. They don't have to kayak far — or at all — to get an interesting view of the lake. Sometimes seaplanes from nearby airports do touch and goes, and the alligator hunters whizz by in their airboats during hunting season.

However, most days, it is peaceful and restful.

Though they enjoy the feeling of country living in their home, they are also happy to be in a neighborhood with nearby shopping and dining.

“We feel we have the best of both worlds living here,” Judy says.

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book club story: Kathy Porter

Until Tuesday

A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Who Saved Him Former U.S. Army Captain Luis Carlos Montalvan will tell you that this book is about a man and a dog, war and healing, ability and disability, and spiritual restoration. Suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Montalvan was trapped in his apartment, often in an alcoholic haze. He could not deal with the collapse of his family, his marriage, and his career. He could not work and took 20 medications a day for physical pain and severe agoraphobia. Enter service dog Tuesday, and the story takes a dramatic change as Tuesday helps him rekindle his ambition, hopes, and dreams.

Facilitator Diane Dean decided to take us in a different direction for this discussion. Instead of focusing on the book, which teaches us so much about war, Army politics, and PTSD, Diane invited special guests whose programs are in the forefront of helping veterans cope with PTSD. Julie Drexel is co-founder and CEO of Patriot Service Dogs (www. patriotservicedogs.org). Their goal is to place well-trained service dogs with disabled veterans in need. Many of the dogs in the program are trained by prison inmates, as was Tuesday. Julie brought Hero with her, a very handsome and enthusiastic Golden Retriever that delighted the group.

I brought Dee Dee, a beautiful Goldador (a Golden Retriever and black Labrador Retriever mix), to the meeting as well. I am raising Dee Dee, an aspiring guide dog

the next meeting

The Bookworm Book Club will meet Feb. 18 to discuss The Scoundrel and The Spy by John H. Frye. Club chair Kathy Porter can be contacted by phone at 352.259.8196 or email at kathymporter@comcast.net.

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Personally, I think every American should read this book. Many hardships come from war, but the personal pains many of the soldiers endure are horrendous. These dogs are such a gift to mankind.”

—Nancy Wahl Rio Ponderosa for the visually impaired. Southeastern Guide Dogs’ (www.guidgedogs.org) primary mission is to place guide dogs, but exceptional dogs not suited for a guide dog career may be placed in one of their other programs such as Paws for Patriots, which provides veteran service dogs and facility therapy dogs. .Jen Elliott’s program is Combat Boots to Cowboy Boots, the signature program of Horse in Miracles (www.horseinmiracles.org). Combat Boots to Cowboy Boots is a five-week equine professional program that teaches the basics of horse handling and horse care. The training culminates with an equine specialist certificate enabling the veteran to work at one of the more than 600 horse farms in the area. .Without question, the group was inspired not only by the book but encouraged by the three programs. The book club members sincerely hope more will be done to help those who have served their country so honorably.

About the Author .Luis Carlos Montalvan enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1990 at the age of 17. In 2003, he joined the officer corps after graduating from college and completing the officer training with honors. He was deployed to Iraq and awarded the Combat Action Badge, two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and the Army Commendation Medal for Valor. He was honorably discharged in 2007. In 2013, Tuesday received the AKC Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence.

Montalvan holds a Bachelor of Science in sociology from the University of .

Maryland and Master of Science in journalism from Columbia University. He is living in New York City with Tuesday and pursuing a second master’s degree in strategic communications at Columbia. He tours the country speaking as a vocal advocate for Americans with disabilities. A motion picture based on Until Tuesday is in production.

HARDCOVER BESTSELLERS AS of January 21

1. The Invention of Wings by: Sue Monk Kidd

2. Private L.A.

by: James Patterson

3. NYPD Red 2

by: James Patterson

4. The Goldfinch by: Donna Tartt

5. S.

by: J. J. Abrams

6. First Love

by: James Patterson

what club members thought The story of Luis and his helpful service dog Tuesday was very informational. I was most influenced by Luis’s description of the Army and the Veterans Affairs.

We, as a country, need to redouble our efforts to assist those who have served.

“Until Tuesday” was so educational for me. I knew very little about dogs being used to treat PTSD. The speakers at our meeting talked about the pet programs available for vets. This was a truly inspirational book club meeting for me.

Santiago

Caroline

Ina Lidsky

Linda Ferens

This book explained PTSD better than anything I have ever read. In this case, the solution of a loving service dog provided a miraculous step into healing.

I learned things I did not know before such as flashbacks are not visual but a feeling. Veterans Affairs needs to do a better job treating PTSD.

Summerhill

Santo Domingo

Sharon McHenry

The book showed PTSD to me in ways I could understand.

Kathy Hansen

Pam Sherman

7. Motherland by: Maria Hummel

8. Gone Girl by: Gillian Flynn

9. The Husband’s Secret by: Liane Moriarty

10. Sycamore Row by: John Grisham

Santo Domingo

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Belleview Veterinary Hospital Now offering

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Central Florida Pet Crematory offers a way for pet owners to provide the respect and loyalty after death that their pet freely gave them in life.

– Janet Erwin

Lisa Elliott

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For the love of

Animals

Central Florida Pet Crematory has served the Marion County area since 2002. It is our goal to help you say goodbye to your special friend in the most caring and understanding way.

Central Florida Pet Crematory is owned by local veterinarian Dr. Rick and Janet Erwin and is located adjacent to Belleview Veterinary Hospital. Euthanasia services provided.

352.307.2256 10725 S.E. 36th Ave. cflpetcrematory.com

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Look Your Best for Valentine’s Day! What do people really want on Valentine’s Day? Love, Connection, Smiling, Happiness? Are you looking to rekindle your relationship, or start a new one altogether? Looking and feeling your best can give you the confidence you need! The best place to start this Valentine’s Day is with YOU! The experts at ImageLift are here to help you look and feel your best, just in time for Valentine’s Day! Let your confidence shine through and fall in love all over again with that special someone or experience the thrill of dating again!

Now is the perfect time to experience all of the joys and excitement with the one you love. Don’t let your age or appearance hold you back! With so many surgical and nonsurgical treatment options using the latest techniques, there has never been a better time to look and feel your best. We can help prevent aging from controlling how you feel on the inside!

Would you say that we live in a visual society? And does aging or appearance make a difference in the workplace or in our relationships? The answer is clear, and who is the most important person you will visually influence? Yourself!

Make a great impression on yourself by taking care of you! Dress yourself up, pamper you – it feels good, doesn’t it?

And nothing replaces what a lift can do for you. Find out from ImageLift which suits you the best: Small – You like what you see when you pull on your neck and jawline in the mirror, pulling the skin in the direction towards your ears.

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are comfortable with more extended recovery times.

Remember, other treatments can be good in the interim, but the ImageLift Facelift gets the “Wow” results. If you need even a little perk-up, we can handle that with little to no-downtime treatments for you. You deserve to look and feel your best!

At ImageLift, we are a National Center of Excellence for our long-term fillers, and we even train other doctors in the ImageLift techniques. The combined experience of two Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Rich Castellano and Dr. Randall Weyrich, is sought after across the country and internationally. They will absolutely provide you with a customized treatment plan that works for you and your individual needs, right here in The Villages, no travel required.

And our book is an easy read and an excellent resource. Here is a comment from Pat, an actual ImageLift patient: “I am very grateful to have read Dr. Castellano’s book before I had my treatment. I felt more comfortable about my decision, and I knew what to expect ahead of time!”

Let us help you get that younger look back! Call now to learn what treatment is best for you at 877-789-3223 or visit our website at Imagelift.com.

DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEONS, RANDALL WEYRICH, M.D. AND RICH CASTELLANO, M.D.

LIZ HAD THE LASER IMAGELIFT AND FACIAL FILLERS.

RESULTS ARE TYPICAL AND DO VARY.

Meet The Docs At An Upcoming Seminar!

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Thursday, February 6th @ 11:00 AM Artefill® Luncheon at the Villages Office

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Tuesday, February 18th @ 1:00 PM Seminar at the Top of the World

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Thursday, February 20th @ 1:00 PM Seminar at the Waterfront Inn

Learn More At An Upcoming Webinar!

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Wednesday, February 5th @ 6:00 PM Call to RSVP

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Let us help you get that younger look back! Call now to learn what treatment is best for you at 877-789-3223 or visit our website at Imagelift.com

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I am very grateful to have read Dr. Castellano’s book* before I had my treatment. I felt more comfortable about my decision, and I knew what to expect ahead of time!

- Pat, ImageLift patient.

*Available for a limited time at our Villages location at no charge to you.

The Villages | 8630 East County Road, Suite 466 | 877.789.3223 | ImageLift.com

”

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WE OFFER VARIOUS MEDICAL SERVICES:

• Adult medicine - preventative and routine services • Acute care • Blood pressure and heart diseases • COPD and other lung diseases • Dermatology • Minor surgeries • Osteoporosis care • Rheumatology - knee and other joint injections • Diabetes and other endocrine disorders • Nutritional/dietician services • Diabetic teaching • In-house diagnostics and lab

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Our advice to people curious about Freedom Pointe is to please throw out all of your preconceived notions. It is unlike any independent living community. Freedom Pointe is an active, and we mean ACTIVE neighborhood, with fascinating, interesting, and caring residents and staff. Residents and staff… we all become family. We haven’t laughed or smiled as much in years!”

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

Open 7 days a week

Gourmet Kitchen Products Unique and Hard To Find Specialty Kitchen Products

We Carry USA Made Products

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Make Us Your 2014 Baking and Cooking Headquarters

*Cooks Tools & Gadgets Galore *Nordic Ware Bundt & Baking Products *Everyday Cooking & Baking Supplies for Everyone *KYOCERA Advanced Ceramic Knives, Lifetime Warranty *LorAnn Gourmet Vanillas, Oils, Bakers Emulsions *Specialty Gourmet Salts PLUS Salt & Pepper Mills *PLUS Hard to Find Baking & Cooking Ingredients *Demo Cooking Class are now available

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*Gift cards available *Also shop on-line at www.KaDeeKay.com

On the

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

February 20 14

116 120 1 22 124

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On the scene // the to-do list

febRUary to have an event considered for the calendar, send a short text description along with a color photo (if available) 60 days in advance of event to: calendar@akersmediagroup.com or lake & sumter style calendar, p.O. Box 490088, leesburg, fl 34749

EVENTS FEBRUARY 8

SPRING BLING FASHION SHOW & BRUNCH New Beginnings, a nonprofit that helps lake county homeless children and their families, will host a fashion show and brunch beginning at 10a.m. at trilogy Orlando, 107 falling acorn ave., in Groveland. tickets: $25. cONtact: 352.617.8788

FEBRUARY 15

BLOOMING LOTUS in every woman lives a goddess that is ready to bloom, and this Day of Bliss program will help you do exactly that. Nurture yourself and learn to transform negative self-talk and defeating beliefs to regain self-confidence. learn to use the law of attraction to manifest the relationship you want, whether new or existing. cost is $75 and starts at 11:30a.m. at the Windhorse/ Vitruvian Health center in eustis. cONtact: 321.804.5439

FEBRUARY 14–15

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY SEMI-ANNUAL BOOK SALE the friends of the cooper Memorial library sponsor this semiannual book sale where prices can’t be beat. Books, movies, and music are just some of the great items at this gigantic book sale benefiting the cooper Memorial library. from 9a.m. to 1p.m. cONtact: 352.536.2275

FEBRUARY 21

INAUGURAL CELEBRATION Beacon college will proudly inaugurate its third president, Dr. George Hagerty. the inauguration also launches a yearlong celebration of the 25th anniversary of Beacon’s founding. the installation ceremony begins at 2p.m. cONtact: 352.638.9768

FEBRUARY 15

PET RESCUE FUNDRAISER & ADOPTION EXPO Join the pet-friendly folks at Bill Bryan subaru from 10a.m.–4p.m. the event will host several pet rescue agencies with cats, dogs, and even rabbits up for adoption.

Various area vendors will attend, including therapy dog agencies, dog groomers, a professional pet photographer, and a licensed dog trainer. food trucks, live music, pet supplies, children’s games, and prizes will all be at this charitable event. proceeds

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“charlie Brown,” “Young Blood,” “searchin’,” “spanish Harlem,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse rock,” and “i’m a W.O.M.a.N.” the sonnentag theatre at the iceHouse, 1100 N. unser st., Mount Dora. cONtact: 352.383.3133 or www. icehousetheatre.com

from donations and raffle drawings will benefit nonprofit rescue organizations. cONtact: 352.787.2223

MUSIC+THEATRE

FEBRUARY 20–23

MOUNT DORA MUSIC FESTIVAL The 17th annual festival kicks off Thursday, Feb. 20, with the teen music talent contest at 7:30p.m. featuring 10 Lake County high school music students who will compete for scholarship prizes.

Friday night, the legendary recording artist Leon Redbone performs a Tin Pan Alley ragtime jazz and blues repertoire.

Saturday, the 60s British Invasion duo Chad & Jeremy will perform some of their top hits, such as “A Summer Song,” “Yesterday’s Gone,” “Willow Weep for Me,” “Distant Shores,” and many more.

Four days of festivities continue with free concerts throughout the weekend in downtown Mount Dora.

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.com

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS the Broadway musical based on the 1988 film. two fraudsters in the french riviera cross paths and realize the town isn’t big enough for the both of them. a challenge is made: the first to successfully swindle a young woman will stay; the other must hit the road. these con men end up with much more than they bargained for in this hilarious musical with more twists and turns than pearls on a stolen necklace. tickets: $29 ($25 students/seniors). Garden theatre, 160 W. plant st., Winter Garden. cONtact: 407.877.4736 or www. gardentheatre.org

FEBRUARY 7

GOSPEL CHOIR SHOWCASE celebrate Black History Month at the leesburg center for the arts with a gospel choir showcase featuring the christian Worship center choir and an exhibit from the leesburg africanamerican Museum. the event begins at 7p.m. cONtact: 352.365.0232

CONTACT: 352.385.1010 OR WWW.MOUNTDORAMUSICFEST.COM FEBRUARY 8 THROUGH FEBRUARY 23

Warehouse theatre, 732 B W. Montrose st., clermont. cONtact: 352.319.1116

THROUGH FEBRUARY 9

MAN OF LA MANCHA this musical version of Don Quixote is framed by an incident allegedly from the life of its author, Miguel de cervantes. Don Quixote is the mad, aging nobleman who embarrasses his respectable family by his adventures. Backed by his faithful sidekick sancho panza, he duels windmills and defends Dulcinea, his perfect lady. Moonlight players

THROUGH FEBRUARY 23

will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions — from sidesplitting comedy to on-the-edge-of-yourseat drama. these modern-day Houdinis have recently been named “international Magicians of the Year” and have been named “performing arts entertainers of the Year” six times. critics worldwide call this show the “best non-stop entertainment that will have you believing the impossible.” cost: $22. at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. at lake-sumter state college’s paul p. Williams fine arts auditorium. cONtact: erin O’steen-lewin at 352.365.3506

minister gives way to profound compatibility as they share more than dance steps. Melon patch theatre, 311 N. 13th st., leesburg. cONtact: 352.787.3013 or info@melonpatch.org

THROUGH FEBRUARY 2

SIX DANCE LESSONS IN SIX WEEKS this two-character comedy opens as an aging but still formidable woman hires an acerbic dance instructor to give her lessons in st. petersburg Beach. antagonism between the gay man and the widow of a southern Baptist

THROUGH FEBRUARY 16

SMOKEY JOE’S CAFE a smokin’ musical revue featuring hit songs of the 1950s and 1960s, including “On Broadway,” “stand By Me,” “Kansas city,” “love potion #9,” “poison ivy,”

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE this parody of 1920s american musical comedies concerns a middle-aged, asocial musical theatre fan. as he plays the record of his favorite musical, the show comes to life onstage. Bay street players at the Historic state theatre, 109 N. Bay st., eustis. cONtact: 352.357.7777

A NIGHT FOR THE ITALIAN the city of Mount Dora cultural series continues with “a Night for the italian”’ with international recording sensation franco corso, who is known as “the Voice of romance.” at 8p.m. at the Mount Dora community Building. tickets: $20–$30. cONtact: 352.217.8390

FEBRUARY 14–15 FEBRUARY 1–2

SPENCERS THEATRE OF ILLUSION the spencers’ theatre of illusion

DO YOU REMEMBER the city of Mount Dora and Just us productions present a music-fil ed evening featuring the greatest hits

FEBRUARY 22–MARCH 02

PARADE OF HOMES The Home Builders Association of Lake and Sumter Counties is hosting its 2014 Parade of Homes. See new homes and meet the builders in person. In addition, several remodeled homes are on the parade route this year along with several showroom showcase entries that will highlight products and services for those still making design decisions.

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EDITOR’S PICK

from elvis presley, the platters, the everly Brothers, the Duprees, Whitney Houston, Nat King cole, the righteous Brothers, and many more. the fun begins at 7p.m. both nights at the Mount Dora community Building. tickets: $20. cONtact: 352.735.7183

FEBRUARY 16

FOREVER ELVIS elvis (aka tony roi) and his fully staged live band bring down the house wherever they perform! few performers can emulate the look, sounds, and characteristics of the “King of rock ‘n roll” as well as Branson’s very own tony roi. You can’t help falling in love with tony in his “forever elvis” show at the Vil ages savannah center. reserved seating: Vil ages residents, $25; general public, $30. iNfOrMatiON: www.thevil agesentertainment.com. cONtact: 352.753.3229

CONTACT: 352.343.7101

FEBRUARY 21–22

LEESBURG MARDI GRAS Come see the official crowning of the Mardi Gras King and Queen on Feb. 21 during this fun and formal event, which features delicious food, full cash bars, and outstanding live entertainment. This ticketed event begins at 7p.m. and will be held at the Leesburg Opera House. Formal or costume attire is suggested. Then on Feb. 22, the “Party in the Streets” of downtown Leesburg begins at 11a.m. with the Kids Masquerade Parade. At 2p.m., the Mardi Gras Pet Parade kicks off, and the party keeps on going until 11p.m.

CONTACT: 352.365.0053 OR WWW.LEESBURGMARDIGRAS.COM

FEBRUARY 20

MARCH 1–2

WOMEN OF IRELAND for the first time, a stage show brings together all the most adorned elements associated with irish & celtic music, song, and dance in one super stage spectacle. featuring an-all female lineup of irish step dancers, which includes three long term lead dancers from riverdance and Michael flatley’s lord of the Dance, the shows are scheduled for 5p.m. and 8p.m. at the Vil ages savannah center. reserved seating: Vil ages residents, $24; general public, $29. iNfOrMatiON: www. thevil agesentertainment.com. cONtact: 352.753.3229

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE sponsored by insight credit union, this show contains a wealth of talent derived from all areas of irish life. combining traditional irish dance and music with the modern arts of dance and music, the richly costumed show marries the contemporary and the ancient as you relive the journey of the irish celts throughout history. cost: $22. at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. at lake-sumter state college’s paul p. Williams fine arts auditorium. cONtact: erin O’steen-lewin at 352.365.3506

MARCH 2

MICKY DOLENZ Micky Dolenz, lead singer of the Monkees, wil bring his music to Mount Dora. all proceeds wil benefit the Mount Dora library and its programs. Micky wil sing all his hits and meet his fans. Don’t miss this 7p.m. show and help raise money for the library. cHBs field House, 301 W. 13th ave., Mount Dora. cost: $35. cONtact: 352.383.1958

unsold items going to charity. there will also be new and used things for sale, including original artwork and crafts, plants, jewelry, books, puzzles, and home-baked goods. location: 440 fox run Blvd., tavares. cONtact: eileen Brey at 352.343.4152 or Barb Graff at 352.552.3328

FEBRUARY 8–9

FESTIVALS/FAIRS FEBRUARY 8

FOX RUN FAIR the biggest attraction will be a huge white elephant sale with

OLD FLORIDA OUTDOOR FESTIVAL a weekend festival celebrating the outdoor lifestyle wil be held at the apopka amphitheater at the Northwest recreation complex. the festival wil feature birding,

fishing, hunting, shooting sports, Highwaymen art, children’s activities, a local farmers market, a backyard chili cook-off, and a florida Barbecue association cook-off. National country music recording artists wil perform evening concerts. tickets are available at www.oldfloridaoutdoorfestival.com. cONtact: 407.703.1809

ART/HISTORY EXHIBITS THROUGH MARCH 2

HELMETS FOR HEROES: DEAN S.WARREN innovative and creative sculptor Dean Warren exhibits his creations in this one-person exhibition. lake eustis Museum of art, 1 W. Orange ave., eustis. cONtact: 352.483.2900

FEBRUARY 14–16

WINEFEST XXIII indulge in lakeridge Winery’s full range of award-winning table wines during this year’s Winefest. this fun event offers wine lovers an opportunity to enjoy all the fruits of lakeridge’s bountiful harvest from the previous year. Wines from dry to sweet wil entice newcomers and draw rave reviews from longtime devotees. More than 80 local artists and crafters are invited to display their work. live music throughout the entire weekend. cONtact: www. lakeridgewinery.com

THROUGH MARCH 2

‘BIG BAD WAX’ NATIONAL JURIED ENCAUSTIC EXHIBIT Works from 35 national artists were selected for this national juried event featuring encaustic art. encaustic painting uses beeswax, resin, and pigment and is polished to a high gloss for a luminous effect. the wax also can be modeled, sculpted, textured, and combined with collage material. the selected artists’ works explore the interpretations that apply to “Big Bad Wax.” location: Mount Dora center for the arts, 138 e. fifth ave. cONtact: 352.383.0880

February 20 14

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On the scene // the to-do list

INCONCERT TICKETMASTER 800.745.3000 TICKETMASTER.COM Dates are subject to change without notice so please call ahead to confirm venue listings DATE

ARTIST

02/05 Kevin Johnson 02/06 Walk Off the earth 02/07 J Boog 02/07 Queens Of the stone age 02/08 Jeanne robertson 02/08 Orlando philharmonic Orchestra 02/08 Pat Metheny Unity Group 02/08 remedy Krewe 02/08 sebadoh 02/09 Big sandy & His fly rite Boys 02/09 Gold city 02/09 panic! at the Disco 02/10 Jars Of Clay 02/11 trey anastasio 02/12 abandon all ships 02/13 Mason Jennings 02/13 Myon & shane 54 02/14 selwyn Birchwood 02/14 Shovels & Rope 02/15 Jim Jefferies 02/15 lorrie Morgan 02/16 MattyB 02/16 that 1 Guy 02/17 the Kingston trio 02/20 art Garfunkel 02/20 led Zeppelin 2 02/20 “Mount Dora Music festival” 02/21 New Madrid 02/22 Orlando philharmonic Orchestra 02/22 “Winter Garden Blues & BBQ festival” 02/23 “Larry’s Country Diner Cruise” 02/23 “Mount Dora Music festival” 02/24 the Black angels 02/24 “larry’s country Diner cruise” 02/25 Big Gigantic 02/25 “larry’s country Diner cruise” 02/26 austin Mahone 02/26 “larry’s country Diner cruise” 02/26 Memphis May fire 02/26 tim lovelace 02/27 fifth Harmony 02/27 “larry’s country Diner cruise” 02/27 Tommy Emmanuel 02/28 excision 02/28 Jennifer Nettles 02/28 “larry’s country Diner cruise” 03/01 Big al & the Heavyweights

VENUE Disney cruise line - Disney Wonder House Of Blues the social Hard rock cafe / Hard rock live plaza live Orlando Bob carr perf. arts centre House Of Blues universal studios the social Will’s pub aloma Baptist church House Of Blues Backbooth House Of Blues Backbooth the social roxy Nightclub leu Gardens The Social plaza live Orlando Orange Blossom Opry plaza live Orlando the social the Villages plaza live Orlando House Of Blues Mt. Dora community center Will’s pub Bob carr perf. arts centre Historic Downtown Winter Garden

ENjoy Food Trucks, Live Entertainment from Wade Williams & a FREE Movie under the stars

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

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MR. PRESIDENT

The popular GeorgeFest celebration is sure to get your patriotic juices flowing.

STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: CHRISTIE BOBBITT

G

eorge Washington is an iconic figure in American history. He served as first president of the United States and was also an amazing general who helped the original 13 colonies achieve independence from Britain.

Because of his legacy, towns and cities throughout the country hold annual celebrations to honor his birthday. Can you guess what American city annually hosts one of the oldest Washington celebrations? Here’s a hint: It’s not his hometown of Alexandria, Va. For 112 years, the City of Eustis has displayed patriotic spirit with its popular GeorgeFest celebration, which today attracts thousands of visitors from throughout the world. That ranks second — by a meager four years — to Laredo, Texas, which began celebrating the first president’s birthday in 1898. GeorgeFest

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is also the longest-running festival of any kind in Florida.

Throughout the years, the format of the event has changed from a one-day to a multi-day celebration. However, the goal has always remained the same: allow fun seekers to enjoy themselves and revel in patriotic pride. That goal continues being met, as evidenced by the 23,000 spectators who attended last year’s event.

“We had visitors who came from as far away as Canada and even Portugal,” says Christie Bobbitt, executive director of the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s a weekend full of family fun, and children and adults alike will have a good time because there are so many things to do. Also, businesses in downtown Eustis will be open, so it is a great opportunity for local residents to visit the unique stores and see what they offer.”

PATRIOTIC PRIDE The theme of this year’s event, which is being held Feb. 28 to March 2, is “It’s a Grand Old Flag.” The festival kicks off on Friday at 7p.m. with a concert by Turnstiles, a Billy Joel tribute band, in Ferran Park. The night skies will light up immediately following the concert with a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Eustis As always, one of the festival highlights is the popular parade that begins Saturday morning at 9a.m. Spectators will line the sidewalks of Bay Street to watch colorful floats, baton-twirling cheerleaders, marching high school bands, and representatives from local businesses and civic organizations. The parade also features the dog jog, where pet owners and their furry friends jog and walk together on the one-mile parade route.

The three-day event will also include a carnival, food and craft vendors, piebaking contests, a patriotic storefront contest, and a classic car cruise-in. In addition, musicians will continuously perform live music representing popular songs from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.

“Some people come for the music, some for the fireworks, and others for the carnival,” Bobbitt says. “The best thing is you can enjoy all these fun activities for free. This is a very community-oriented event, and we are thankful for the city and other partners that make this happen.”

Do yourself a favor and partake in Florida’s longest-running festival. After all,

by George, it’s Washington’s birthday!

For more information, call the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce at 352.357.3434.

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

NASHVILLE NOTES It’s not your grandfather’s Nashville anymore… or I should say Nashville is a lot different from the way my grandfather described it to me. I grew up hearing stories about the Grand Ole Opry and its legendary performers like Ernest Tubb, Jimmie Rodgers, and Johnny Cash. Today’s Nashville, however, is a hip and vibrant city where rock, folk, hipster, and even a world-class symphony truly make it Music City USA. STORY AND PHOTOS: MARY ANN DESANTIS

T

he pounding backbeats emanating from the music venues along Nashville’s “Honky Tonk Highway” reinforce the message that Tennessee’s capital city is no longer just a country music mecca.

Today’s stars — such as Kings of Leon, Casey Frazier, and The Black Keys — are attracting a whole new generation. In fact, Music City USA is in the midst of a revival that 12 million visitors discovered last year.

However, it’s more than just the music

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that brings in visitors of all ages. The arts scene is one of the South’s most outstanding and innovative. Professional and collegiate sports are also a big lure, especially the NHL Predators whose ice hockey games sell out quickly. And if you’ve ever wondered why Nashville is called “the Athens of the South,” just visit any one of its famed educational institutions or historic sites for even more arts and culture.

“Without question, we are considered a

creative community and we are nourishing the creative class for the future,” says Butch Spyridon, president of the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation.

“People are our greatest asset.”

Knowing where to begin a Nashville visit can be a challenge, especially if time is limited. I grew up in the Bible Belt and in a home filled with country music, so it seemed appropriate that I should first pay homage at the “Mother Church of Country Music” — the Ryman Auditorium and

GEORGE GRUHN

home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 until 1974. With so much character, history, and amazing acoustics, it seemed almost sacrilegious to me that the Grand Ole Opry moved to the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center and left the Ryman vacant for 20 years. A major renovation in 1994 brought the former 1890s Union Gospel Tabernacle back to glory, and it now attracts performers like Sheryl Crow, Widespread Panic, Billy Joel, and even stage actor Van Kilmer.

If Ryman Auditorium is the church, then the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is the fellowship hall. Located in downtown Nashville near the Visitors Center, the $37 million facility boasts a collection of 2 million artifacts. Singer/ songwriter Vince Gill describes it as “the house that holds all the music.” In addition to handwritten song lyrics that became classics, such as Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” and Kris Kristofferson’s “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” the museum has an eclectic mix of memorabilia including Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac.

The museum is not just for old-timers either. “We’re getting an influx of younger visitors, especially with the Taylor Swift Education Center here,” says Mick Buck, curatorial director. “The newer stars are also donating or lending memorabilia. It’s funny how we got Kellie Pickler’s costume from the finale of ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ Her publicist sent an email offering it just as we were getting ready to ask.”

So much of Nashville’s history and reputation rest on the country music

industry but the city offers much more — even for visitors who prefer classical jams.

The $123 million Schermerhorn Symphony Center is one of North America’s premier concert halls and home to the Grammy Award-winning Nashville Symphony.

And then there is art… Nashville is home to so many world-class museums that it’s hard to do them justice in a few sentences. Not-to-be-missed art facilities include the Frist Center for the Arts, an Art Nouveau architectural wonder that was Nashville’s main U.S. Post Office from 1934 until 1986, and The Parthenon, a full-size replica of Greece’s iconic building that was built in 1897 to symbolized the city’s quest to be the “Athens of the South.”

Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art is eight miles west of downtown, but certainly worth the drive. Maxwell House heir and original IBM investor Leslie Cheek built the 1932 Georgian mansion, which houses a permanent art collection. In the spring, more than 50,000 tulips bloom on the 55-acre property.

Nashville’s historical treasures and its new $623 million downtown convention center complex, restaurants, bars, and hotels have transformed the city into a hot travel destination. Budget Travel named it a Top 10 Best Budget Destination and Travel & Leisure named it the No. 1 Friendliest City in the U.S. “We are certainly in a golden age for the city,” says Spyridon. “The transformation is remarkable, and yet we’re able to hang on to important things like authenticity and history.”

NASHVILLE NUMBERS: 100 – NUMBER OF SEATS IN THE FAMED BLUEBIRD CAFÉ WHERE MANY SONGWRITERS GOT THEIR START.

1,500 – GUITARS IN GRUHN GUITARS SHOWROOM. 250 –

NUMBER OF SONGS ELVIS PRESLEY RECORDED AT RCA’S HISTORIC STUDIO B ON MUSIC ROW .

3 MILLION –

POUNDS OF CHOCOLATE ANNUALLY USED BY THE STANDARD CANDY COMPANY TO MAKE GOOGOO CLUSTERS, A NASHVILLE INVENTION. sOurce: VisitMusiccitY.cOM

Trip

TIP If attending the Grand Ole Opry is your goal, you may want to stay on the east side of Nashville, near Opryland Mills and the Opryland Resort and Convention Center.

Downtown attractions, such as the Ryman Auditorium and free music venues, are all within walking distance of several hotels, including the historic Union Station Hotel and The Hermitage Hotel.

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On the scene // Hi, society!

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2013

IN GOOD TASTE

More than 1,000 people attended the Taste of South Lake and Business Expo and enjoyed signature dishes and drinks from the area’s 25 best restaurants.

The event, which was held at Waterfront Park in Clermont, also featured live entertainment from Grammy-nominated bass player Jerry Bravo and saxophonist Charlie DeChant. Carrabba’s Italian Grill won the People’s Choice Award.

TERESA BAILEY, FRANK RANFONE, AND DAN NAPOLINE

SUSAN SPITULSKI, FAHA ABDUL’HADI, AND DAVINSON BOX

JONI STORY AND STACEY WHITE

AMY SMITH AND MATT BOOROM

JACKIE NOBLE AND RICK NOBLE

DONNIE HUNT

“Keep calm and eat a cupcake.”

— Leslie Kirkland

JULIE CHEVALIER AND DEBBIE SWOPE

PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS

KELLY STETSON AND ANDREA RODRIGUEZ

Feb 22nd 11am-11pm Visit: www.LeesburgMArdiGras.com

Leesburg

Events!

On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2013

WEARING THE CROWN WITH PRIDE The 27th annual Miss Leesburg Scholarship Pageant was held at Leesburg High School. The pageant helps build community pride by promoting volunteer service work. The winners will represent Leesburg at special events, parades, and community activities throughout the year. In addition, the pageant awards $10,000 to help local students further their education.

TAYLOR BROWN AND HUNTER WORRELL

PHOTOS: AUBREY AKERS

LANDI HICKS AND ASHYLNNE COUNTS

“I’ve been doing pageants since age 3.”

SAVANNAH ZUK MCKENZIE PARRISH, TAYLOR PELFRY, AND EMILY PELTON

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On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2013

CREEPILY CREATIVE Cornfields are not the only place where you’ll see scarecrows these days. The fifth annual Scarecrow Expo and Build Off was held in downtown Leesburg. Armed with Halloween spirit and creativity, participants built their own scarecrows, which lined the streets of downtown Leesburg throughout October. The event was presented by the Leesburg Partnership and the Leesburg Downtown Business Association.

TORI AND CAMIE KENNEDY

ANNA GRACE & ELIZABETH CLINTON AND LOIS HANSON

CRYSTAL AND CLAIRE MATHIS

PHOTOS: AUBREY AKERS

WEST LEESBURG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORP

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A SERVICE OF FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE www.ocalaice.com

LIMBSTITUTE

Women and vein care INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE

IME’s new addition is a woman

put ice on it.

I N N O VAT I O N • C O M PA S S I O N • E X C E L L E N C E

“Women and men face similar risks yet their disease processes present differently, and the diagnostics and treatment they receive is specific to not just their medical history but to their gender.”

— Dr. Asad Qamar

The hearts behind the giving

// INSTITUTE OF CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE //

Women and heart disease

Gender makes a difference

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and the exchange of the universal symbol of the emotion— the heart. On this day, hearts are given to others in every imaginable way. Hearts are on cards, balloons, made out of flowers and chocolate, drawn, painted, and etched. The universal symbol crosses borders and oceans, all the while maintaining its meaning.

Although the symbol of the heart is not reflective of the anatomical heart, it, too, varies in size, shape and color.

The sentiment behind Valentine’s Day is to show others they are loved, appreciated and admired.

As I imagine the differences between how men and women celebrate the day, more often than not, women are the recipients of these expressions of love. I may not be able to explain the motive behind these differences but will stick to the physiological differences in the hearts behind the giving.

By nature of size, a woman’s arteries and vessels are smaller and their heartbeat is 8-10 beats faster than a man’s at rest with the female hormone, estrogen being the main factor behind these biological differences.

Women and men face similar risks yet their disease processes present differently, and the diagnostics and treatment they receive is specific to not just their medical history but to their gender.

As we pay special attention to those we love this month on Valentine’s Day, especially the women in our lives, let us be reminded it is not just the emotional heart we care about, but the health of their hearts and bodies that mean the most.

Q: Heart Disease is the No. 1 killer in women.

What factors contribute to this?

Whenever you think of cardiovascular disease you think of men as the flawed, but on any given day in the ICE cardiac catheterization labs there are more woman than men. Risk factors are the same in both males and females regarding smoking, hyperlipidemia (too many lipids—or fats —in the blood), diabetes and high blood pressure.

Women face an increased plaque burden, diffuse nature of arterial disease and smaller caliber of the peripheral and coronary

arteries. Additionally, there is more of an atypical presentation in woman than in men, whereas men typically present with angina. Peripheral arterial disease is also atypical in woman and can present as discomfort in the legs or in the heel that is present at rest or during exercise or may not be confined to the muscle.1

Q: Are there disorders that women are more susceptible to?

If so, which ones and why?

Microvascaular angina (chest pain caused by the small resistance coronary artery vessels that are

Yours,

42.9

million women are currently living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Asad U. Qamar, MD FACC, FCCP, FSGC, FACP, FSCAI Cardiologist

Source: Go A S, Mozaffarian, D, Roger, V L, Benjamin E J, et al.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics 2014 Update

A D VE RT ISE M E NT

“I look forward to participating in my patients’ care for many years to come.”

— Devin Di Scala Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner

not visible in a coronary angiography2) is more common in woman than men. Basically, the small arteries have the inability to dilate themselves and it is atypical angina but in the absence of any significant blockage in coronary arteries. Although incidence of diabetes is the same in women and men, women with diabetes do more poorly with CAD and PAD than men.

Q: What symptoms should women be aware of when recognizing and identifying heart disease?

More important than symptoms, first of all woman should be aware of the fact that incidence of coronary and vascular disease is similar in woman and in men. Controlling lipids (cholesterol), diabetes, hypertension and smoking is important.

The symptoms to be aware of include shortness of breath on activity, indigestion, any back discomfort with

activity (woman present more commonly with interscapular pain than men), numbness or tingling, and fatigue in the legs upon ambulation. Also, symptoms of palpitations, lightheadedness and dizziness are important for coronary artery disease and vascular disease in women.

Q: How can ICE help women to manage/prevent heart disease?

We can do comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation focusing on risk factors and appropriate non-invasive imaging for early detection and treatment of coronary and vascular disease.

The onset of heart disease tends to appear in women later in life than males, and this can also be complicated or go undiagnosed due to the fact of other comorbidities that have developed. Women should begin educating themselves early and address the risk factors to help prevent and identify the risks related to cardiovascular disease.

Hughes, Sue. “Peripheral Arterial Disease Affects More Women Than Men.” Medscape.24 February 2012. Web. 19 January 2014.

Cannon RO, Epstein SE. “Microvascular angina as a cause of chest pain with angiographically normal coronary arteries.” Am J Cardiol 1988; 61:1338–43.

1.

2.

ADVERT ISE M E NT

// INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE //

From flight nurse to feet on the ground Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Devin Di Scala knew instantly she wanted to join ICE’s Institute of Medical Excellence (IME). “Everyone was so accommodating and it felt like a family,” says Devin about her first experience with Dr. Qamar and his team. “I have always been drawn to making a difference in people’s lives, and I could tell the providers and team members at ICE felt the same, so it was a perfect fit.“ Devin brings a unique mix of aero-medical trauma and intensive care, internal and family medicine, ICU, and cardio-pulmonary experience to IME. Devin also practices as a registered flight nurse with Orlando Health’s Air Care Team where she implements emergent care to treat life-threatening complications. “I was promoted to a flight nurse within one year of working in the trauma room,” she says. “I was able to extend my critical care knowledge to a job that I truly enjoyed because I am helping people when it most counts.”

Devin’s ability to think quickly on her feet will benefit her patients as she joins IME here on the ground. “I look forward to participating in my patients’ care for many years to come. As a flight nurse, I treat patients in an acute setting. I don’t get a chance to develop the long-term relationships I want,” she says.

Devin sees patients in the Ocala, Summerfield, and The Villages offices five days a week. “I am intrigued by medicine and enjoy sharing my knowledge with my patients to help manage and prevent disease processes. The care I give is individualized and based on a personal connection.”

put ice on it.

I N N O VAT I O N • C O M PA S S I O N • E X C E L L E N C E

Risk factors for varicose veins and venous insufficiency include: Older age • Being female (Hormonal changes from puberty, pregnancy and menopause can lead to varicose veins. Taking birth control pills or hormone replacement can also increase your risk.) • Being born with defective valves • Obesity • Pregnancy • History of blood clots in your legs • Standing or sitting for long periods • Family history of varicose veins

// THE LIMBSTITUTE //

Treating venous insufficiency can make your legs look and feel better

Source: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001109.htm

There are many risk factors that contribute to leg pain and vein problems in patients today. Family history, a job requiring prolonged periods of standing or sitting, obesity, and more specific to women, pregnancy and the extended use of high heeled shoes are all risk factors for venous insufficiencies. The vein’s inability to return blood to the heart from the legs can become a chronic problem when the veins are blocked or blood is leaking around the valves of the veins.1 “Women, (and men) should pay attention to symptoms of vein disease such as swelling ankles, swollen feet and/or legs, heaviness, cramping, restless legs, achiness, tired legs, bulging veins, and early vein disease of spider veins,” states P.A. Tom Tran of The Limbstitute.

With 12 years of experience, over 20,000 procedures done on veins, and a current research facility focused on the advancement of vein treatment options, The Limbstitute offers comprehensive vein care to help

patients suffering from symptoms of vein disease. P.A. Tran explains, “Patients are treated from the medical aspect while also addressing the cosmetic component of vein disease. Once treated, symptoms are relieved from the underlying vein problem, the added benefit of cosmetic vein procedures can make the legs look better, too.”

1.

www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000203.htm

Tom Tran, PA-C, MPAS A SERVICE OF

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retina care improving

through research

In the ever-expanding field of retina care, vitreoretinal specialist and surgeon Dr. Shalesh Kaushal is excited that the Retina Specialty Institute continues to play a key role in furthering medical advances through its participation in clinical trials and giving patients access to the most advanced care.

A clinician scientist with a strong academic background, Dr. Kaushal takes great pride in being involved in cutting-edge clinical trials to treat many conditions of retinal disease. He earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md., and his Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

His work as head of the retina division at the University of Florida in Gainesville has helped cultivate his passion for solving problems for both his patients and the scientific community. As result, he has earned a reputation as being a selfless visionary and compassionate practitioner.

As an avid researcher, Dr. Kaushal has participated in numerous clinical trials involving revolutionary breakthroughs in retina care such as gene therapy, stem cell treatment, and new drugs. And he is bringing these breakthroughs to Retina Specialty Institute’s Villages office, which is conveniently located in the Sharon Morse building Suite 532.

High on the list of innovations is the use of stem cells. “There are many types of stem cells, but there are two basic kinds that we look at. There are cells that can rejuvenate tissue and then there are types that can actually regenerate and replace cells that are lost through normal wear and tear, injury, or disease,” says Dr. Kaushal.

“We want to bring those types of trials to The Villages.”

The Retina Specialty Institute is also highly involved in researching the use of nutraceuticals to treat a variety of visionthreatening diseases, especially within his field of specialty: inherited retinal and macular diseases like retinitis pigmentosa

(RP) and Stargardt disease as well as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). “Instead of patients receiving injections to treat dry macular degeneration, we are hoping to find oral medications to mediate the disease,” he says. “We’re bringing exciting research to Central Florida.”

As a FDA-approved clinical trial study center, Retina Specialty Institute is known widely among major pharmaceutical companies, peers, and patients for delivering continual peak performance. The goal is to use the research to provide patients with better results while being less intrusive.

Aside from his contributions and active involvement in clinical research, Dr. Kaushal carries a real passion for charity — as proven by his many diligent hours caring for and treating underserved populations in local communities as well as abroad.

Dr. Kaushal also enjoys the sacred relationship between doctor and patient and makes it a point to communicate in a way that is both clear and understandable. He considers it a great honor to provide quality patient care that not only restores sight and improves vision but also increases quality of life.

The surgeons of Retina Specialty Institute are lending shape to the unknown, forging the next generation of knowledge and technology that help preserve the gift of sight from retina diseases like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

Experience visionary retina care. Preserving. Treating. Advancing Now accepting patients at The Villages.

Call today for an appointment at 850.529.7077

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eats

did YOU KnOW? National Caramel Apple Day is always Oct. 31 in the United States.

However, thanks to Kilwins in The Villages, you can enjoy this delicious treat all year long.

READ MORE ABOUT THEIR SWEET OPERATION ON PAGE 142

IN THE KITCHEN SALUTÉ FORK ON THE ROAD DINING GUIDE

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February August 20 14 20 I 13 I 2 141

EATS // fork on the road Tasty insights and observations

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SWEETS TO THE SWEET

From delectable caramel apples to uniquely flavored fudges, Kilwins in The Villages is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

I

t’s February, and those with sweethearts know it is time to head to the store to buy sappy love cards, overstuffed teddy bears, and most importantly, heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. However, if you are anything like me, the typical V-Day fare doesn’t impress. In my humble opinion, it is predictable, uncreative, and a little dated.

Therefore, in search of something a little more inspired, I looked high and low for a place that would satisfy my love for sweets and pique my curiosity. I found what I was looking for at Kilwins located in the Spanish Springs Town Square in The Villages.

This Kilwins location isn’t new; it’s been in the square for a quite a number of years.

However, the owners, Gary and Dale Uptegraft, are new;

they just purchased the franchise last September.

“We started thinking about retirement, but couldn’t fully retire. Therefore, we decided we would look into possibly buying a Kilwins franchise,” said Dale. “Gary knew Kilwins because he grew up in Michigan where Kilwins started, so we looked all over for a location and found this one for sale in The Villages.

We thought we would give it a shot.”

With a little elbow grease and a lot of love, the Uptegrafts restored the store to its former glory and opened quietly to little fanfare. However, the word about their premium confections and extraordinary ice creams spread rapidly, bringing in a steady stream of customers through the entire holiday season.

One thing I loved about Kilwins is the fact most of their products are made on site. “In the store, we make caramel corn, peanut brittle, and another treat we call Nutcracker Sweets, which has popcorn, almonds, pecans, and caramel,” said Dale. “We also dip graham crackers, Nutter Butters, marshmallows, Oreos, Twinkies, and pretzels in chocolate right here in the store.”

Nevertheless, when it comes to what the locals love, Dale said people can’t seem to resist Kilwins’ caramel apples and fudge. Luckily for me on the day I came for a visit, Gary and his kettle cook, Howard LaBarca, were preparing a 25-pound batch of caramel to dip apples.

Cooked for three hours, the caramel is consistently stirred in a copper kettle. By

the time I had arrived, the caramel had already reached the desired consistency and Gary and Howard were chomping at the bit to start dipping. With the synchronized precision of an assembly line, the men moved quickly to dip 72 Granny Smith apples. Tightly holding the sticks, which are planted into the top of each apple, they rolled the apples swiftly yet smoothly in the caramel. After a few quick shakes to remove any excess caramel, each apple then landed in a bowl packed with chopped nuts.

On this day, Gary worked with pecans while Howard handled the peanuts.

Next, I watched as Gary and Howard scooped the nuts in their palms and packed them tightly around the apples, making sure the nuts bonded to the caramel.

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Then once fully covered, the apples were placed on cookie sheets covered in parchment paper to cool, and the leftover caramel was put away to be made into chews later.

Watching all the action made me a little hungry so I was happy when Dale said she was slicing an apple to set out for customers to sample. She handed me a slice of their dark chocolate and sea salt caramel apple, and it was so delicious that I took one back to the office.

These are nothing like the cheesy little caramel apples people purchase from the grocery store around Halloween time. Kilwins’ caramel is smooth and creamy but it does not stick to your teeth, causing you to fear losing a dental crown.

And the Granny Smiths are the right amount of tartness to contrast with the sugary sweetness from the chocolate and caramel. Moreover, they are juicy and quite fresh.

I didn’t get to see Howard make his legendary fudge (which I understand is a sight to see all on its own), but he did explain the whole process, which involves working the fudge for 15 minutes straight with a paddle before it can be turned into a loaf. On most days he makes about three loafs, but he recalled making 10 the day the store reopened.

I told Howard he must have amazing upper body strength; he just looked at me with a smile, then laughed.

I usually don’t like fudge

because I think it’s too sweet, but I figured it was important for me to see why Kilwins fudge has created such a fuss. With 12 different flavors in the store, it was hard to decide which one to sample; I eventually decided to try the newest flavor: rocky road. To my surprise, it was actually pretty yummy and not excessively sweet. And I liked how the marshmallow and nuts in the fudge gave it that real rocky road ice cream taste.

Before leaving, I talked with customer Jeanette Williams, who lives in Country Club Hills and has been coming to Kilwins for six years. That day she was in the store with a friend admiring the caramel apples. “I just love their ice cream and caramel apples,” she said. “I also love their chocolate-covered cherries. I moved here from Ohio and let me tell you, there is nothing like this up there. I come at least a couple times a month to treat myself.”

Though Kilwins will be offering Valentine’s Day goodies like hand-

STAFF PICKS FAVORITE CARAMEL APPLE FLAVORS

GARY UPTEGRAFT: Pecan and caramel DALE UPTEGRAFT: Turtle JENNIFER DYER: S’mores HOWARD LABARCA: Peanut and caramel

dipped chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry chocolate chunk fudge, and strawberry cheesecake ice cream, I still encourage people to be bold and different.

Who knows, a delightful piece of fudge or a gourmet caramel apple may be just the thing to turn this cookiecutter, Hallmark holiday into something a little more special — and a lot more sweet.

KILWINS

BY THE NUMBERS

3

Fudge loaves are prepared every day

150

Pounds of chocolate are used each month for dipping apples

72

Granny Smith apples are dipped every week

70

Minutes are needed to cook fudge

EATS // saluté A worldly look at wine

CELLAR IDEAS

Storing wine properly is important whether you are simply keeping a few bottles on hand to share with friends or aging wines in a long-term collection.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+MARY ANN DESANTIS

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Tavares office of certified etting bitten by the financial planner Thomas wine-collecting H. Ruggie don’t always bug happens see the climate-controlled quickly. It starts wine “closet” next to his with two or three bottles conference room. Creating the of your favorite varietal, 12-by-4-foot space became a but before you can say necessity when he outgrew his Gewürztraminer three times, 125-bottle wine unit at home. the pantry door will not “About the time space shut because several cases was running out at home, I of wine are in the way. purchased my current office Living in Florida presents building and there was a fairly special challenges for wine large closet in the conference storage. Most obvious is room,” Ruggie says. “Though the warm climate followed I was concerned with it being by the inability to have a ‘over the top’ for a financial true underground cellar. adviser to have a wine cellar In addition, closet space in his conference room, I always seems limited in overcame this issue.” homes designed Many are surprised for downsizing, to learn that Ruggie’s and it goes collection is not an without saying investment. “I enjoy that garages purchasing older are a big no-no wines, but they unless you are generally do not last trying to make too long as I buy for vinegar from enjoyment,” he says.

Chardonnay.

Bill Biebesheimer “There is nothing Wine lovers, like sharing a great bottle of however, are finding cool wine with some friends.” and clever ways to store In addition to opening their wines, often in some favorite wines with his unexpected locations. friends, Villager Bill Clients visiting the

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Biebesheimer coordinates the monthly purchases for several wine clubs. He is always scouting for interesting wines and good values, which often means buying and storing several cases before the clubs actually need them.

“Having a storage area, even just a wine frig, let’s you take advantage of case discounts,” says Biebesheimer. “And by keeping several bottles of the same vintage, you can see how the wine changes with each year or how it tastes with different foods.”

About eight years ago, Biebesheimer enclosed part of the front porch on his Village of Palo Alto home to create a climate-controlled wine room. A contractor raised the slab and poured the foundation, but Biebesheimer and his son framed the room and created an interior door from the window space. After a small air conditioner was vented into the garage, his personally designed wine closet was ready to hold up to 2,000 bottles of wine.

“I usually only have a

couple of hundred, including about 100 bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon, which I like to keep two years before I drink,” Biebesheimer says.

“It’s not unusual, though, to find a bag of onions or potatoes stored in there, too.”

Both Ruggie and Biebesheimer advise the best wine purchases are the ones you like to drink.

“Prices and ratings can provide some indication about the quality, but it ultimately boils down to personal preference,” says Ruggie.

Biebesheimer adds, “Wines are always changing.

If you find one you like, grab it because the taste could be totally different with the next vintage.”

ABOUT THE WRITER Living in Italy was the catalyst for Mary Ann DeSantis to understand more about wine, and she now enjoys sharing what she’s learned. Since 2010, Saluté has covered topics for oenophiles of all levels — from novice wine drinkers to experienced connoisseurs. The column received a 2013 Florida Magazine Association Bronze Award for Best Department and a 2012 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Award for Commentary.

WINE COLLECTING TIPS 1. Build your storage area or buy a wine refrigerator larger than you think you will need. Collections grow faster than you expect.

2. If possible, locate the storage area close to your kitchen and dining area.

Wine should be part of the food experience.

3. If you plan to keep wines for awhile, look for high acidity and tannins. If you start with low acidity, the wines will taste flat when you hold them too long. Tannins diminish with age and the wines become smoother; however, if you begin with low tannins the wine loses its complexity and is not the taste the winemaker intended.

4. Maintain a stable and consistent temperature in wine storage areas. Wine Spectator recommends 45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with 55 degrees being the optimal. More importantly, avoid extreme or frequent temperature fluctuations.

Thomas H. Ruggie

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EATS // fork on the road Tasty insights and observations

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THE GOBLIN MARKET RESTAURANT & LOUNGE What this popular Mount Dora restaurant lacks in prime location it makes up for in food and atmosphere. Known for spinning culinary sorcery that leaves patrons craving more, The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge is a hidden jewel that rarely disappoints.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

G

rowing up, I loved fairy tales.

My imagination always transported me to faraway, magical lands where princesses lived happily ever after, brawny heroes slayed fire-breathing dragons, and supernatural creatures possessed mystical powers.

Stumbling along the cobblestone path of Dora Drawdy Way in my high heels, I felt like a modernday Snow White trying to find my way through the concrete “forest” of downtown Mount Dora.

However, instead of discovering the home of The Seven Dwarfs, I found a quaint eatery hidden away from the foot traffic by overgrown florae and high wooden fencing.

A garden arch covered in feral vines welcomes customers to The Goblin Market Restaurant &

Lounge. I instantly felt like I was entering into my own secret fairy tale as I followed the small brick path that leads to the main entrance. And once inside, I smiled as the beautiful book-lined dining room and muted color scheme reminded me of the bookstore Belle visits in the Disney version of “Beauty and the Beast.”

I was greeted by General Manager Paul Haverly, who then ushered me to a cozy table in the main dining room. Slated to celebrate 18 years of unique fine dining in March, Goblin Market was inspired by the narrative poem of the same name that was written by Christina Rossetti. In her poem, Christina describes a goblin fruit market in the woods where the goblin men cry, “Come buy, come buy” in an attempt to entice two willful sisters

to taste their ware.

Fortunately, this Goblin Market doesn’t have to rely on the shrills of mischievous sprites to lure customers. Its impressive menu speaks for itself. Paul said Goblin Market’s menu is eclectic, embracing flavors from all over the world with a modern American flair.

“Nothing is mundane.

You may see familiar dishes, but we put our own signature stamp on them,” he said. “We serve homemade dressings and fresh baked breads. We even make our own demiglace and butcher our own meat and fish. Everything is made fresh.”

The ambiance is also certainly a draw all its own. As a self-proclaimed bookworm, I enjoyed the air of dining in an antique library. It was intimate and quite romantic. Any minute, I thought my

Prince Charming would sit down and join me for a glass of sweet tea, but sadly, I ate alone — though I welcomed the good company and service of my waiter, Robbie.

From my seat, I could see the tree shaded courtyard and garden patio area, which is perfect for dining alfresco.

And while waiting for my first dish, I also noticed how Goblin Market — with its popularity reaching beyond Mount Dora — serves as a place where friends and couples come to catch up and enjoy a bit of elegance and enchantment.

Robbie soon appeared with one of Goblin Market’s popular starters: tempura-dipped artichoke hearts. Stuffed with pesto cream cheese and served with sweet and hot mustard, this appetizer assaulted my palate with a variety of flavors that surprisingly worked well

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together. The sweetness of the cream cheese cut through the sharp taste of the artichoke hearts, resulting in a harmonious intermingling of tastes. And the sweet and hot mustard added an interesting hint of heat that wasn’t too overpowering.

Goblin Market has an affinity for using exciting ingredients to make ordinary dishes extraordinary. For example, the potato-crusted grouper Caesar salad comes with savory peach-chive chutney and the Mexican chorizo quesadilla is topped with a tomatillo peppadew salsa and finished with a cilantro-cumin crème fraiche drizzle. It is a gourmet’s paradise when restaurants push past the mundane and marry flavors that make for mind-blowing eats.

For my main course, I tried the cashew-crusted chicken Montagu sandwich. On paper, this could have looked just like any other chicken sandwich; however, several

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elements elevate it into a league of its own. The cashew crust on the chicken breast offers a sweet and buttery bite with good crunch, and while people traditionally think cranberry with turkey, the cranberry-apple relish complemented the chicken brilliantly. Moreover, the melted Brie helped tie the entire meal together.

For dessert, I was torn between a slice of banana chocolate cheesecake and a slice of la bête noire, but I eventually settled on the latter. La bête noir means “the black beast” in French — and for good reason. This flourless chocolate torte is exquisitely rich, and the creative minds at Goblin Market made it even more decadent by adding peppermint patties. Because it is such a heavy dessert, I could only eat half of it; therefore, I suggest sharing it with someone.

Satiated and content, I thanked both Robbie and Paul for the amazing food

.com

and hospitality. And as I sauntered back over the cobblestone alley to my car, I wondered what the ending to this culinary tale would be in a real-life fairy tale.

Maybe something like, “And she dined happily ever after. The end.”

ADDRESS: 330 Dora Drawdy Way, Mount Dora, FL 32757 PHONE: 352.735.0059 HOURS OF OPERATION: Tuesday–Thursday, 11a.m.– 9p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11a.m.–10p.m.; Sunday, 11:30a.m.–3:30p.m.

POPULAR LUNCH DISHES Crab Bisque: $7 Tempura Dipped Artichoke Hearts: $10 The Market Cobb: $13.25 Potato Crusted Grouper Caesar Salad: $13.25 The Goblin Club: $11.25 Cashew Crusted Chicken Montagu: $12.25 Braised Kurabuta Pork Belly Sandwich: $12.25

GET A SNEAK PEEK INSIDE GOBLIN MARKET THIS MONTH ON catch us on LSTV on Bright House channel 199 and comcast channel 31.

Tuesday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Thursday: 10a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Saturday: 10a.m. and 10p.m.

Sunday: 11a.m. and 5:30p.m.

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Events by Miss Daisy’s Let us plan your event!

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Miss Daisy’s Flowers & Gifts

“Whatever Your Occasion, Let Miss Daisy’s Make It Special!”

1024 W. Main Street Leesburg, FL

352.787.6806

www.MissDaisysFlowers.c om February 20 14

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

BaMBOO BistrO

700 nOrtH HWY. 441 (in FrOnt OF target), LadY LaKe // 352.750.9998 the Villages Bamboo Bistro welcomes you to experience a delightful dining experience with us. enjoy an impressive selection of asian dishes from china, Japan, Vietnam, and thailand, as well as a full sushi bar. some of the more popular items include peking duck, pepper seared filet mignon, the bamboo basil seafood delight, and the chilean sea bass served in black bean sauce. Of course, there are plenty of other enticing items made with our freshest ingredients, such as the shrimp in lobster sauce, Mongolian beef, and the ever-popular General tso’s chicken. Noodle soups and noodle dishes are also available; a variety of asian beers and the extensive selection of wine will complement that perfect meal. Dim sum Hours: Monday–saturday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; sunday Noon–9 p.m.

HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: MOndaY–tHUrsdaY FridaY and satUrdaY sUndaY

11a.M.–9:30P.M. 11a.M.–10P.M. nOOn–9P.M.

BOniFaY COUntrY CLUB

1033 PineLLas PLaCe, tHe viLLages 352.205.7455 // WWW.BOniFaYCOUntrYCLUB.COM Bonifay country club is a casual, fine dining restaurant that infuses florida-inspired cuisine with the relaxing and open atmosphere of a beach getaway. Our eclectic menu, with a focus on fresh, clean, and local products, is filled with delicious fare and handcrafted cocktails that will be sure to delight the palate, while staying reasonably priced. the interior design is fun and vibrant, with pastel colors, bright canopies, and light fixtures in the restaurant and outside bar will delight your senses and appetite. Whether coming off the beautiful, Ken ezell-designed golf course or stopping by before a night on the town square, Bonifay country club is the right choice.

HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: sUndaY – tHUrsdaY: 7:30a.M.–9P.M. FridaY – satUrdaY: 7:30a.M.–10P.M. BreaKFast: everY daY 7:30a.M.–11a.M. HaPPY HOUr: everY daY 11a.M.–5P.M.

COUsin vinnie’s FaMiLY sPOrts restaUrant OPen seven daYs a WeeK: 11a.M.–9P.M. // FOOd, sPirits, MUsiC, sPOrts 10700 U.s. HWY. 441, LeesBUrg // 352.253.2442 // WWW.Cvinnies.COM

cousin Vinnie’s is located on u.s. Hwy. 441 across from lake square Mall. Owner “cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a sports bar with a family restaurant. Vinnie’s recently won “2013 Medium Business of the Year”and is famous for outstanding food and even better service! they also have been voted Best WiNGs in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013. additional menu items offered are killer ½ lb. burgers, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheese steaks, healthy wheat wraps, homemade salads, 16 awesome appetizers, and their signature deep fried ice cream and snickers Bars! every Monday is “texas Hold’em” from 6–10p.m. tuesday night is “family Night” from 4–8p.m. when kids 12-and-under eat free. Wednesday night is “trivia Night” when the fun starts at 6:30p.m. with prizes given to the top 3 teams. thursday night is “Karaoke Night” where everyone is a star! every saturday watch your favorite college team while enjoying $1.50 domestic draft beers all day and night. On sundays they offer “the sunday Nfl ticket,” catch any game… any time! cousin Vinnie’s also offers weekly specials, free Wi-fi, great music, and an enthusiastic staff ready to exceed your expectations. “i absolutely look forward to serving you and your family very soon!” says owner cousin Vinnie.

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Allergy & Asthma Care of F lorida

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Physicians Board Certified by the AMERICAN BOARD OF ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

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3509 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162 in the Southern Trace Plaza 352.391.1334

G. Edward Stewart II, M.D.

CELEBRATING 30+YEARS!

Valentine’s Day Bouquet.™ Edible.com Delivery not available in all areas. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS® & Design and all other marks noted are trademarks 0000000 Address Line 000-000-0000 of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2013 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.

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1501 US Hwy 441 N., Suite 1406,The Villages, FL 32159 (352) 753-1422 • OPEN FOUR DAYS A WEEK

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Flu Vaccine Available

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1740 SE 18th Street, Suite 1002 Ocala, FL 34471

*Offer valid at participating locations shown. Containers may vary. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Visit Edible.com for details and restrictions. Edible Arrangements®, the Fruit Basket Logo, and other marks mentioned herein are registered trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. © 2014 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.

February 20 14

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

tHe gOBLin MarKet restaUrant & LOUnge 331-B dOnneLLY street (rear aLLeY), MOUnt dOra 352.735.0059 // WWW.gOBLinMarKetrestaUrant.COM

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

HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: LUnCH tUesdaY–satUrdaY 11a.M.–3:00P.M. dinner tUesdaY–tHUrsdaY 5–9P.M. FridaY–satUrdaY 5–10P.M. sUndaY 11a.M.–3:30P.M.

JOin Us FOr OUr neW “LigHter Fare” dinner MenU, gOUrMet sOUPs, saLads, and sandWiCHes. tUesdaY– tHUrsdaY FrOM 3–9P.M. (regULar dinner MenU aLsO avaiLaBLe).

tHe OYster trOFF

936 nOrtH BaY street, eUstis // 352.357.9939 “the troff” is a great place to meet up with family and friends in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. family owned and operated for more than 14 years, we offer something for everybody with our full menu and bar. We have Happy Hour Monday–thursday that includes ½ pound of peel-and-eat shrimp for $5.99, one dozen middle neck clams for $4.99, and fifty cents off all alcoholic beverages. if you can’t make it for happy hour, don’t worry, we run other specials during the entire week! Monday we have oysters at $7.99 per dozen, tuesday you can find middle neck clams for $14.99 per bucket, Wednesday we have Happy Hour food all night, thursday offers live Maine lobster with two sides for $17, friday we have all-you-can-eat fried Mahi Mahi strips for $10.99, and sunday offers up $6 pitchers of beer and ½ pound of peel and eat shrimp for $5.99.

We are nOW OPen tHUrsdaY, FridaY, and satUrdaY at 11:30a.M. HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: MOndaY–WednesdaY tHUrsdaY FridaY–satUrdaY sUndaY

3–9 P.M. 11:30 a.M.–9 P.M. 11:30 a.M.–10 P.M. nOOn–9 P.M.

PaLM tree griLLe

351 nOrtH dOnneLLY street, MOUnt dOra 352.735.1936 // WWW.PaLMtreegriLLe.COM the décor is sophisticated yet casual allowing for the perfect meeting, family gathering, or private event. Our “Wall of Wine” makes for a stunning display of more than 600 bottles of wine. culinary offerings include classic italian as well as steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, salads, tasty sandwiches, sumptuous desserts, and more. Guests can relax in the lounge where we offer a full bar with unique wines, craft beers, and a variety of spirits. the restaurant is available for special events such as weddings, corporate functions, family gatherings, and other celebrations. every month, the palm tree Grille operates a “Wine connoisseur Dinner.” these exciting dinners offer four-course meals with each course being paired to a particular wine. Guests may also purchase wines to take home with you, just as you would in a wine shop.

LOCated in MOUnt dOra, tHe PaLM tree griLLe Has Been FaMiLY OWned and OPerated sinCe 1995.

HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: sUndaY MOndaY–satUrdaY

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nOOn–8P.M. 11a.M.–9P.M.

FNBLighthouseHalfpg.pdf

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BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Daringly Traditional.

You crave it. We serve it.

Turkey Avocado Sandwich Slow roasted turkey breast, avocado, arugula, tomato with lemon garlic aioli.

Exclusively at TooJay’s Gourmet Deli

At First National Bank, we share your devotion to Lake County – because we live, work and thrive here, just like you. We consider our first 85 years to be a noble beginning to a voyage propelled by an unwavering dedication to the folks who bank with us.

At First National, you’re not just another customer.

Because we’re not just another bank.

Since 1981, TooJay’s Gourmet Deli has been delighting diners with an exciting and eclectic menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When the craving strikes indulge in authentic NY–Style deli sandwiches or settle in with slow roasted turkey, old fashioned pot roast and other time–honored comfort food favorites. Friendly, professional service is a part of every meal, so make plans today to join us for “a little taste of home”.

Legendary desserts: carrot cake, black & whites, chocolate Killer Cake.

352-383-2111 • www.fnbmd.com Trust and Investment Services are not FDIC Insured, not deposits of the bank, not guaranteed by the bank, not insured by any government agency, and may lose value.

Village of Spanish Springs (352) 753-3510 Lake Sumter Landing (352) 430-0410 www.toojays.com February 20 14

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EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

raMsHaCKLe CaFÉ

1317 nOrtH 14tH street, LeesBUrg // 352.365.6565 Just for the fuN of it! come on in and experience ramshackle café! it’s a great place for the whole family. fajitas, steaks, sandwiches, salads, ribs, delicious burgers, and of course, killer wings. We feature a Happy Hour daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with most drinks 2 for 1! so, for a great time and great food, bring the kids and come on in to ramshackle café! check out our menu at www.ramshacklecafe.net HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: sUndaY MOndaY–tHUrsdaY FridaY satUrdaY

11a.M.–10P.M. 11a.M.–11P.M. 11a.M.–MidnigHt 11a.M.–11P.M.

sUBWaY

WWW.sUBWaY.COM custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. the “healthy” alternative to fast food.

LadY LaKe // 208 W. Guava st. // 352.750.4929 eUstis // 469 plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 MOUnt dOra // 18870 u.s. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 LeesBUrg // 2013 citrus Blvd. // 352.787.6442 10135 u.s. Hwy. 441, suite 4 // 352.326.3234 27405 u.s. Hwy. 27, suite 4 // 352.314.8847 tHe viLLages // 1580 Bella cruz Drive // 352.750.9600 8796 s.e. 165th Mulberry lane // 352.750.9991 1070 lake sumter landing Drive // 352.205.8535 349 colony Blvd. // 352.391.1657 WiLdWOOd // 480 W. Gulf to alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800 HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: MOndaY–satUrdaY sUndaY

10a.M.–10P.M. 10a.M.–9P.M.

tOnY’s PiZZa

2760 e. Orange ave., eUstis 352.589.9001 // WWW.tOnYsPiZZandsUBs.COM tucked away on the east side of eustis, tony’s pizza has been serving the locals for over 25 years. previously voted “Best pizza,” tony’s casual setting offers a variety of entrees, such as our Blackened chicken cajun pasta. in addition to the lunch specials, tony’s has expanded its menu to include a variety of flatbreads and the very popular Mahi salad. if you are a pizza lover, you will appreciate freshly made dough and enjoy the new Wild Green Mushroom and Mediterranean pizzas. the menu also offers some wonderful desserts, including a variety of cakes and cheesecakes. Whether it’s for your favorite pizza or garlic rolls, tony’s variety and style will have you coming back for more.

DINE IN • TAKE OUT • CATERING HOUrs OF OPeratiOn: MOndaY–tHUrsdaY FridaY satUrdaY sUndaY

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11a.M.–9P.M 11a.M.–9:30P.M. 11:30a.M.–9P.M. 11:30a.M.–8P.M.

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MEMBER OF American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Our practice is dedicated

to providing exceptional plastic surgery and achieving a beautiful, natural-looking result for our patients. We strive to combine surgical expertise, artistic vision, and outstanding service to make your visit with us a positive, rewarding experience. We offer a complete range of modern procedures that include non-surgical and surgical techniques.

Each of our surgeons is board certified in plastic surgery. They are all fully trained and experienced in cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery. Our surgeons are always on site and are directors of our medi-spa and ancillary procedures.

In addition, we have registered nurses assisting the physicians with your care.

This cadre of dedicated professionals ensures that all your questions are answered and that your experience is personal and complete to your satisfaction.

So, if you are seeking a more youthful face, enlarging your breasts, a flattering figure, the solution to a problem area, or guidance to help beautify and rejuvenate your skin, our practice can help you achieve your goals.

GET TO KNOW OUR James Rogers DMD, MD

Dr. Rogers is a native Floridian.

He is a graduate of Emory University, and completed his dental and medical degrees from the University of Florida.

He trained in surgery at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, and completed his plastic surgical training at Tulane University and Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans. Dr. Rogers is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and has performed Cosmetic and Reconstructive Procedures in Ocala for over twenty years. He is one of the most experienced surgeons in Central Florida.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons

Navinderdeep Nijher MD

Dr. Nijher is a native New Yorker who now resides in Ocala with his wife who is a pediatrician. He completed his plastic surgery training at the prestigious New York Hospital of Cornell and Columbia Universities and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He provides the latest cutting edge techniques in minimal scar surgery of the breast, face, forehead, and eyes. He also specializes in all facets of body sculpting including but not limited to liposuction, abdominoplasty, and post bariatric body contouring. Dr.Nijher lectures extensively trying to educate patients on plastic surgery and has subsequently become one of the most sought out plastic surgeons in Central Florida.

Leonik Ahumada MD

Dr. Ahumada specializes in cosmetic and plastic surgery. He is trained in the latest plastic surgical techniques of the face, eyelids, breast and body with emphasis on minimal scarring. This includes non surgical (fillers,botox,fat grafts,sclerotherapy) and surgical procedures (facelift, eyelids, nose, breast,tummy tucks,liposuction). He graduated from Harvard with a degree in biochemistry and completed medical school at the University of Miami. He was awarded many honors while completing Plastic Surgery training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has authored and co-authored papers in plastic surgery. He prefers a personal approach to his patients and will listen to your concerns when suggesting procedures. Dr Ahumada’s family is from South America; in addition to English he is also fluent in Spanish and has an international clientele. He is married and father to three girls; when not seeing patients he enjoys time with his family.

F E B R U A RY

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Normally priced at $20 marked down to $15 System Includes: • Cleansing Wash (1oz) • Fruit Acid Exfoliant (.33oz) • OPC Reparative Gel (.33oz) • Enriched Facial Moisturizer (.25oz) • Gentle Action Application Pads (25ct)

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C A L L U S T O D AY

(352) 750-0019 REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

www.VillagesPlasticSurgery.com THE VILLAGES LOCATION 1501 US Hwy 441 N, Bldg 1000, STE 1001 The Villages, FL 32159

OCALA/PADDOCK PARK LOCATION 3320 SW 34th Circle, Ocala, FL 34474

Final thought // Gary McKechnie

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT LAKE

I

f I look familiar, you may have read James Combs’ Pulitzer-worthy profile about me in Style’s October issue. If not, I’ll share that I was raised in Maitland and later lived in Orlando. But in 1992 when I learned that most accidents happen within two miles of home, I convinced my wife we’d be safer by moving 30 miles north.

In some ways, coming to Lake County was like coming home. My lasting memories of youth included playing in orange groves, hiking through forests, swimming in creeks, sailing on lakes, and going to bed with an open book, as well as an open window (just to hear the lullaby of a train whistle’s high and lonesome call sailing across the night).

Similar memories met me in Lake County. Once again, I saw a downtown hardware store and people riding bicycles. There was a two-man railroad crew who would park their one-car locomotive in the center of Mount Dora so they could step off and grab a morning coffee from a village restaurant. I never knew a postman until ours knocked on the door to welcome us to his route. A nearby grove reminded me orange blossoms are more enchanting than the fragrance of any perfume. In the wake of Orlando, Lake County was refreshingly simple, friendly, and casual.

Twenty-two years later, things have changed — but not that much. What remains

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I lakeandsumter

the same is a strong sense of community created by ordinary people in ordinary situations.

For instance, on any given day each table and booth at Mount Dora Pizza is filled with landscapers, lawyers, soccer moms, seniors, work crews, mechanics, salesmen, politicians, firefighters, cops, kids, and families. Behind the counter, a half-dozen cooks race through orders while floor servers dodge around customers and each other, and a lone cashier juggles a ringing phone, cash, credit cards, and carry-out orders.

In this small restaurant in a nearly vacant strip mall in this small American town, this scene has been replayed each day for more than 30 years. It reminds me of George Bailey’s building and loan in “It’s A Wonderful Life.” His may not be the largest or most profitable business, but it’s an integral part of Bedford Falls.

While here, I think of the thousands of people that have been touched by its presence.

I think of the customers, employees and their families that are connected to this place.

Ultimately, I picture manager Joe Folgore as Mount Dora’s own good ol’ George Bailey — the richest man in town.

Recently at the Bay Street Theatre in Eustis, it seemed performers in the children’s theatre production of “Annie Jr.” rivaled the number of family members filling every seat. But what made this amateur musical memorable was

.com

A nearby grove reminded me orange blossoms are more enchanting than the fragrance of any perfume.

In the wake of Orlando, Lake County was refreshingly simple, friendly, and casual.

watching kids of every color and size and ability working together. Regardless of his or her range of talent or the color of his or her skin, every child on that stage had committed itself to memorizing every line and lyric. Most likely, the children accomplished this with the help of caring family members who are also of every color, size, and ability. And after those kids had rehearsed each dance step on stage and again at home, the lights went up as they fought the butterflies and sang and danced for themselves and their families and their fellow performers. So on this one weekend in a small theatre in this small American town, they were in the spotlight — most unaware that their larger role was in their contribution to that much-valued sense of community.

And so it goes: Ordinary people in ordinary situations collectively creating a sense of public good. And they are not alone. Throughout Lake County, caregivers aid those in need, neighbors help neighbors, and teachers, coaches, and mentors are pitching in, too. Citizens donate their time to assist food banks, churches, and charities. For the benefit of the public, volunteers devote time to an endless calendar of festivals, events, and activities. Goodness surrounds us and chances are you’re a part of it.

It was nice to meet you. See you next month.

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11 Convenient Locations • (352)669-2121 • UnitedSouthernBank.com Jeanne Lazo, Mortgage Lender - NMLS# 514769 Janet Noack, Mortgage Lender - NMLS# 514772 February 20 14

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“Treating customers with honesty and integrity for over 34 years! You’ll be treated as an honored guest in our home!”

—Frank DeLuca, President/Owner

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Facelift Tummy Tuck Breast Augmentation Liposuction Eyelid Surgery Hair Transplant Botox & Injectable Fillers Spider Veins Chemical Peels

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons James Rogers DMD MD • Navinderdeep Nijher MD Leonik Ahumada MD MEMBER OF American Society of Plastic Surgeons

MEMBER OF American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

C A L L U S T O D AY

(352) 750-0019 REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

www.VillagesPlasticSurgery.com THE VILLAGES LOCATION 1501 US Hwy 441 N, Bldg 1000, STE 1001 The Villages, FL 32159

OCALA/PADDOCK PARK LOCATION 3320 SW 34th Circle, Ocala, FL 34474