The Villages edition of STYLE, March 2014

2014

March

Featuring

MONEY. FAMILY. AND FURRY FRIENDS. A LOOK AT GERALD BAUM, THE PRESIDENT AND CEO OF BAUM FINANCIAL SERVICES

Why obliterate 100% of your knee when only about 25% is arthritic?

Chronic knee pain? A total knee replacement obliterates 100% of the cartilage and up to 50% of the ligaments in the knee. But why undergo a total knee replacement if only 25% of your knee is arthritic? That’s the logic behind a partial knee replacement performed by Dr. Kerina at Tri-County Orthopaedic Center. The procedure preserves all the tendons and ligaments of the knee, allowing for shorter recovery time

and greater function. Dr. Kerina pioneered outpatient partial knee replacements, and has helped thousands of patients return to the active lifestyle they enjoy. Don’t total your knee without exploring viable options like the outpatient partial knee replacement. Call Dr. Kerina today at 352-787-9141 for a one-on-one consultation.

J. Mandume Kerina, M.D.

National leader and #1 surgeon for Zimmer/ZUK partial knee replacements; most requested for surgeon-to surgeon training

352-787-9141 ~ Patient specific, ligament-sparing partial knee replacement for rapid return to your active lifestyle ~

HOW MANY CATCHES ARE LEFT IN THAT KNEE? LET MAKOplasty ROBOTIC SURGERY TAKE YOU FURTHER. ®

Knee pain shouldn’t slow you down or keep you off your game. If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from painful early to mid-stage osteoarthritis of the knee, MAKOplasty Robotic Knee Surgery may be an option for you. Available only in Lake County at Florida Hospital Waterman, this innovative procedure is less invasive than traditional knee replacement, and allows patients to get back to their life quicker and with less pain.

Visit FHWatermanOrtho.com for more information or to sign-up for a free upcoming educational seminar.

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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

Alani Me

edical S a Look Forward to Fresher Skin

Gift Certificates are always available Botox $10 per unit Restylane 15% Off Profractional 25% Off Laser peels 25% Off SilkPeel 15% Off Offer Expires 3/31/14 Open 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday

call us and Add your Email to our online concierge system and receive exclusive discounts and gifts

US Hwy 441/27 Lady Lake, Fl. 32159

352-350-1210 www.alani.com

Your life.

Well furnished.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS!

THE AREA’S LARGEST SHOWROOM

WITH OVER 55,000 SQ. FT.

— Gina and Brian Ward

FAMILY OWNED!

FREE

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.

DESIGN CONSULTING LOCAL DELIVERY FINANCING OPTIONS

BABETTE’S FURNITURE & HOME SHOPPE 8345 U.S. HWY. 441, Leesburg babettesonline.com // 352.728.5600

FOOT AND ANKLE CARE Board-certified foot surgeons Dr. Michele McGowan and Dr. Timothy Henne offer a number of foot and ankle services for comprehensive foot care and ankle disorders. They are trained to handle problems as small as ingrown toenails and warts to as large and complex as bunions, hammertoes and heel pain.

PINPOINTE LASER TREATMENT The Center for Ankle & Foot Care uses the state-of-the-art PinPointe Laser to cure embarrassing and unsightly toenail fungus. This FDA-approved treatment is a safe and effective way to kill fungus and improve the appearance of your nails. Our practice also sells the SteriShoe. This patented ultraviolet shoe sanitizer kills the microbes that cause athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and offensive shoe odor.

THE NATURAL NAIL SPA For a relaxing and enjoyable spa experience, try the Natural Nail Spa, a podiatrist-owned and certified modern nail lounge that maintains a pampering, relaxing atmosphere and the utmost sterilization and safety techniques. Even the nail polish bottle goes home with the client — just another step to heighten the “safe pedicure experience.”

cont March

201 4 // VOLU M E 1 1 N U M B E R 5

Featuring

40 THE NEARLYWED GAME With wedding plans underway, four local couples put their budding nuptials on the line to participate in Lake & Sumter Style’s first ever “The Nearlywed Game.”

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

50

LOVE IN BLOOM

Sometimes future brides need a bit of inspiration; therefore, local wedding and event planner Bob Tucker of Miss Daisy’s Flower & Gifts breaks down the trends and details couples should keep in mind while planning their wedding day.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES

72 LAKE&SUMTER EDITION On the cover PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

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BRIDE GUIDE

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SMALL TOWNS OF SOUTH LAKE:

VILLAGES EDITION On the cover MODEL: GERALD BAUM OF BAUM FINANCIAL SERVICES PHOTOGRAPHY: FRED LOPEZ CHAIR PROVIDED BY BABETTES FURNITURE & HOME IN LEESBURG

It’s hard to know where to begin when it comes to planning the picture-perfect wedding. Therefore, Style has compiled a helpful list of local businesses that can help you create the wedding you’ve always envisioned.

Mascotte • Groveland Minneola • Montverde You didn’t think South Lake was just Clermont, did you?

Learn about the small and fascinating towns that give South Lake its uniquely rustic charm.

STORY: GARY MCKECHNIE

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80 THE TO-DO LIST March is all about pig races, art, and rodeo rides in Lake and Sumter counties.

24 #TRENDING From noteworthy animals to blossoming local talent, find out what is trending for March.

84 SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT Simply amazing The Amazing Race for Charity is a scaled-down version of the CBS hit reality show “The Amazing Race.”

Funds from the event will be distributed to nine Lake County charities.

Story: James Combs

FROM THE PUBLISHER FIRST THINGS FIRST

28 PERSON OF INTEREST Hear about the fascinating life of World War II veteran Howard Blanding, the oldest retired New York State trooper.

30 OUTSTANDING STUDENT Since moving to the United States from China more than one year ago, Elsie Zhao has thrived as a student at Christian Home and Bible School and has her sights set on becoming a doctor.

Oops!

In the February issue, we erroneously referred to the Outstanding Student as Matt Lapas. His real name is Matt Whitlock. “Style” sincerely apologizes for the error.

30

ON THE SCENE

86 OUT+ABOUT Honeymooning on the high seas After planning a stressful wedding, a romantic cruise may be the best way for newlyweds to celebrate a new life together.

Story: Debbie Selinsky 88 HI, SOCIETY! See all the sights from some of the area’s most happening events this month.

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EATS! 100 IN THE KITCHEN Let them eat (wedding) cake!

Kathi Hall Vincent of Cotillion Southern Café in Wildwood knows what local brides want when it comes to the perfect wedding cake.

Story: Shemir Wiles 104 SALUTE Enjoying wine: A lifelong learning pursuit When it comes to tasting wine, it’s best to keep an open mind and be adventurous.

Story: Mary Ann DeSantis 106 FORK ON THE ROAD Tony’s Pizza Just when you think you have eaten it all, Tony’s Pizza in Eustis serves up classic Italian-American food that outshines the rest.

Story: Shemir Wiles 120 FINAL THOUGHT Learning is life You are never too old to set new goals and weave new dreams in life.

Story: Gary McKechnie

Feb_Lake Sumter Style_3.9062x9.8437 1/28/14 8:08 PM Page 1

Kendra Akers

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

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

Doug Akers

Daringly Traditional.

VICE PRESIDENT doug@akersmediagroup.com

Jamie Ezra Mark CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER jamie@akersmediagroup.com

You crave it. We serve it.

EDITORIAL // DESIGN Tina Morrison

EDITORIAL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR tina@akersmediagroup.com

Mary Ann DeSantis

EDITOR-AT-LARGE maryann@akersmediagroup.com

Steven J. Codraro 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

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

Matthew Gaulin

Michael Gaulin

Ellen Cora Fred Hilton Gary McKechnie Kathy Porter Debbie Selinsky

Tony DeSantis Morgan Ellis Tim Totten Ron Vandevander

PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Strawberry Citrus Salad Mandarin oranges, fresh strawberries, red grapes, and mixed greens tossed with Gorgonzola and toasted almonds served with a tangy raspberry vinaigrette on the side.

Exclusively at TooJay’s Gourmet Deli

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR steve@akersmediagroup.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR michael@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

SALES // MARKETING Tim McRae

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING tim@akersmediagroup.com

Heidi Ressler

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE heidi@akersmediagroup.com

Aubrey Akers

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR aubrey@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

FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION

LEESBURG PARTNERSHIP

LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

LAKE EUSTIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SUMTER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AMERICAN ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION

TAVARES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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”.

SOUTH LAKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Lake & Sumter Style, March 2014. Published monthly by Akers Media Group, 1450 E. North Blvd, Leesburg, Florida 34748. All editorial contents copyright 2014 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.

Legendary desserts: carrot cake, black & whites, chocolate Killer Cake.

Village of Spanish Springs (352) 753-3510 Lake Sumter Landing (352) 430-0410 www.toojays.com March 20 14

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This month on

What’s happening beyond the print edition

TORI PETRY

HOST OF “STYLE TV”

COVER STORY

What happens when you take four soon-to-be-married couples and place them in a game show environment? Well, that is exactly what happened this month at Akers Studio in Leesburg. Each of the four engaged couples squared off in a fun contest to see who really knew the most about their future spouse.

CITY SERIES

Lady Lake isn’t just the town before The Villages! With mainstays like Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant, the Tuesday Morning Market, and the ever-popular Orange Barn, which has been a Lake County landmark for over 40 years, this quaint town truly is a hidden gem.

BON APPÉTIT

For most new restaurants, it can take years to develop a name for itself. However, Graziella’s Melody Lounge in Clermont developed a loyal following in just a few short months. It may have something to do with the fantastic views of the rolling hills, the quiet ambiance, or the delicious, authentic Italian cuisine. Bon Appetit correspondent Jana Wheeler was there to see firsthand what diners love.

HI, SOCIETY!

Want the full Mardi Gras experience but can’t travel to New Orleans? No problem! Hi, Society! correspondent Tina Morrison is on location at the 17th Annual Mardi Gras in Leesburg for 12 hours of madness in the streets, which includes live entertainment, a funny and adorable pet parade, and many New Orleans-worthy festivities.

Food sensitivity is a growing epidemic. From gluten to sugar to corn, these foods can wreak havoc on your body, exacerbating conditions you may not realize you had. This month, we take you inside the Institute of Medical Excellence with Dr. Julio Ugarte and some of his patients as he explains how testing for food sensitivity can lead to life-altering dietary changes that can slow the progression or even alleviate certain illnesses.

TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT STYLE AT: 16

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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.

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

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 *Specialty Gourmet Salts PLUS Salt & Pepper Mills *LorAnn Gourmet Vanillas, Oils, Bakers Emulsions *Hard to Find Baking & Cooking Ingredients *Demo Cooking Class are available

Gift & Wedding Registry Available In Store & On Line

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

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Brokerage-HalfPageV.pdf

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At your service Where to find us

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.

We’re here to help you invest today and through lots of tomorrows.

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.

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

Pete Baksh, Susie Pelfrey and John Pease

Your Investment Team When you need investment services, you want a bank that acts as your partner, not your manager. As advisors with the Trust Department at First National Bank for more than 15 years, it’s our job to help enrich your life, not fulfill a quota or generate fees. Our seasoned professionals customize investments to fit your goals and personality – so you can invest your way with confidence.

When you want a bank that does more, come to one that cares more. First National Bank.

Let us know what you would like to read in

Lake & Sumter STYLE magazine.

TRUST & INVESTMENT SERVICES

* SEND YOUR IDEAS TO: Tina@akersmediagroup.com OR MAIL US AT: AKERS MEDIA GROUP, INC. P.O. BOX 490088 LEESBURG, FL 34749

THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK

The people you know, the bank you trust.

352-383-2140 • www.fnbmd.com MOUNT DORA • GOLDEN TRIANGLE • LEESBURG SOUTH LEESBURG • SORRENTO

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.

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NO-CLOSING-COST BUSINESS MORTGAGE Give your number cruncher something to smile about.

AS LOW AS

AT

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SUCCESS!

Membership is open to anyone in Alachua, Marion, Lake and Sumter counties!3

Call David Barber, Commercial Loan Manager at 237-9060 x10121 today!

Summerfield 17950 U.S. Highway 441

F�� the publisher

LOVE IS IN THE AIR When we set out to create this year’s bridal issue, we had no idea just how much fun we would have. As always, we wanted to do something a bit different, which is no easy task. The Akers team discussed many ideas, but one idea quickly developed that we all unanimously agreed was our winner.

That idea was to re-enact the very popular “The Newlywed Game” show.

However, we gave it our own spin and geared it toward couples who are not married yet but are engaged. We called it Lake & Sumter Style’s “The Nearlywed Game.”

Typically, our brainstorming sessions focus on ideas for upcoming issues of the magazine, but a story like this with an actually game show fit perfectly on “Style TV,” as well as the magazine. Therefore, we set forth with our plan and reached out to the community to find local engaged couples.

We posted a call for participants on our Facebook page and the response was unbelievable. It seemed as though we instantly had chosen our four fantastic couples. Each couple is dynamic, interesting, extremely funny, and completely in love. We wanted our readers to be able to get to know each couple personally, so we are featuring them in the magazine. You can read all about them and then watch the couples play the actual game on “Style TV.” “The Nearlywed Game” was great fun, but that’s not all. For those of you who are planning or beginning to plan your wedding, we have a great resource available to you to assist you through this process. We reached out to Florida’s No. 1 floral designer Bob Tucker, who happens to live right here in Lake County and is also a well-regarded wedding and event planner.

We asked Bob to share with us the latest trends in colors, fashion, venues, and floral arrangements. However, Bob quickly informed us that there is no exact outline for the perfect wedding; each celebration is a reflection of the couple who is planning it. Therefore, with that in mind, Bob offers some great ideas and options for creating your unique and perfect wedding.

For those of you who are not planning a wedding, stay with us. There is much more in this issue to enjoy. We always do our best to consider all of our readers, and we are certain there is something in this issue for everyone.

Be sure and check out “The Nearlywed Game,” which will air on “Style TV” on Comcast channel 13 and Bright House channel 199.

Until next month,

Kendra Akers, publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com

feedback Tell us like it is!

WE LOVE IT!

I just saw the November issue of Style magazine and the half-page article on the Mount Dora Tour of Homes.

As usual, James Combs did a fantastic job. The article and the picture are terrific.

Thank you so much. We really appreciate you doing this for us.

of 2014, if the finances are available. We have seen some of this in our own ministries here on our Leesburg campus, so it is a local challenge and it is happening at an alarming rate.

Thank you for the awareness that Style has given this terrible situation.

— Carol Newton

— Pastor Gary Blanchard

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A SPOTLIGHT ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING

LOVE FROM THE COVER GIRL

I missed the March 2012 issue of Style, but was recently given a copy to read due to my involvement in raising awareness with sex trafficking.

The article “Dealing in Flesh” by Jim Gibson was done very well and made my insides hurt, as well as my heart. On page 53, the question is asked: What can you do? All good advice is given for sure.

Since the passing of the Safe Harbor Act, Florida Baptist Children Homes is helping by building a safe home where girls can find shelter, unconditional love, and a safe place to help them begin a new life. It will be a place they will find physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Our goal is to spread prevention, advocacy, and awareness by training our law enforcement personnel to better identify and help human trafficking victims.

We also want to reach out to girls statewide to prevent more from becoming victims.

It is our goal to open the first safe house by spring

I LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! Thank you so much for the deliciously rad write-up.

Happy New Years! Cheers to cooking up more collaborations in 2014.

P.S. Did I mention I LOVE :) — Emily Ellyn

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WILD ABOUT EMILY What a great cover!

Since 1990 • Licensed & Insured

Thorough Cleaning Services For: Banks Doctor’s Offices Professional Businesses New Construction Cleaning Property Management Cleaning Services Also Include: Floor Maintenance Carpet Cleaning Window Cleaning Pressure Washing Cleaning Supplies: Paper Chemicals Equipment

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Fabulous!!!

— Carol Lombardo

via Facebook

Emily, by all rights, should have won “Food Network Star.” We feel she was jipped… you guys made the right choice for the cover of your magazine! How can anyone deny that style?

— Prisby Dion

via Facebook

We love feedback! Send your letters and comments to: letters@ akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Letters at Akers Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 490088 Leesburg, FL 34749. (Letters may be published.

If you prefer not to be published, just mark your correspondence “not for print”).

danucc@aol.com 352.753.8653 March 20 14

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NORMAN S. NOVIS, M.D., P.A. Our patients’ care is our first priority.

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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COUNTERTOPS • VANITIES • FIREPLACES • FLOORING • CUSTOM FABRICATION

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First Things

f1rst

HOWARD BLANDING Retired New York State Trooper Read more about Howard ON PAGE 28.

#TRENDING PERSON OF INTEREST OUTSTANDING STUDENT

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

EASY TO ‘IDOL’IZE

It’s safe to say that Idol is a doggone good canine.

Throughout his life, the German shepherd has served as a seizure-alert dog for a military veteran suffering from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as a therapy dog for veteran Hospice patients.

His efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Idol recently received a special pin from a veteran Cornerstone Hospice staff member during a Cornerstone SALUTES! ceremony. Idol’s former veteran owner, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Basil Reid (left), was also recognized during the event, although he was unable to attend.

When Reid could no longer keep Idol, the dog was honorably discharged from his service dog duties. He is now owned

by Leesburg resident Missy Ziler. “I look forward to continuing to share Idol with veterans who have proudly served our country,” Missy says. “When veterans are around Idol, you can see joy in their eyes.

He really brightens their days.”

A ‘SITE’ TO SEE

Sumter County offers a little bit of everything — from historical landmarks and fishing hotspots to scenic trails and secret restaurant hideaways.

Now, officials in Sumter County are hoping to showcase these features and bolster the county’s tourism industry. To accomplish this goal, the Sumter County Tourism Development Council recently launched DiscoverSumterFL.com.

The comprehensive website contains information on tourism attractions such as fishing camps, historical sites, and shopping opportunities, as well as detailed listings of lodging options and restaurants for overnight

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visitors. In addition, the site informs users about upcoming events such as the Sumter County Fair, scheduled for March 7–15.

“We need an informative and compelling website to promote our many diverse tourism assets,” says Doug Gilpin, chairman of the Sumter County Tourism Development Council.

“We also have several other initiatives in the works aimed at bolstering tourism throughout the county, including a series of sporting and recreational events and an upgraded fairgrounds facility, with a schedule full of exciting new entertainment options.

*

By the numbers

6 8 million to

animals are handled by animal shelters in the United States each year.

56

%

of dogs are euthanized after entering animal shelters.

71

%

of cats are euthanized after entering animal shelters.

3.7 million animals were euthanized in shelters nationwide in 2008.

Sources: peta.org/issues/companionanimal-issues/overpopulation/euthanasia/; americanhumane.org/animals/stop-animal-abuse/ fact-sheets/animal-shelter-euthanasia.html

ADVOCACY FOR ANIMALS

The South Lake Animal League (SLAL) received a $5,000 grant from the Weidman Family Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward. The organization will use the grant to provide food, medical care, and shelter to animals in its care.

“Many animals that come to South Lake Animal League have been abandoned, neglected, injured, and are homeless,” says SLAL President Doreen Barker. “They often have a variety of medical ailments requiring extensive veterinary care. We appreciate the generous support of the Weidman Family and the Community Foundation of Broward for providing funds for an improved quality of life to the animals.”

Serving Lake and surrounding counties since 1988, SLAL is a no-kill shelter that rescues abandoned, abused, or neglected dogs and cats. In 2013, the organization found new, loving homes for 700 pets. To learn more about the organization, please call 352.429.6334 or visit slal.org.

Source: Leesburg Partnership

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTH LAKE ANIMAL LEAGUE NEXT MONTH IN STYLE’S PET ISSUE

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

JAMIE MARK’S MARCH

THE ‘WRIGHT’ STUFF David Allen Taisch of Tavares received the coveted Wright Brothers “Master Pilot Award” during a luncheon held in January by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Mid Florida Chapter 534. Recipients of this prestigious award have accrued 50 years of accident-free flying and had no license revocations during that time. In essence, they demonstrate excellence in flight safety.

As a pilot, Taisch has certainly soared to incredible heights. Since earning his private pilot’s license at age 17, he has logged 6,400 flight hours in 37 different aircraft. He has also flown 116 Angel Flight missions and is active in the EAA Young Eagles flight program.

Taisch currently flies a Mooney M-20M Ovation and is founder of the Florida Mooney Lunch Club, which is comprised of pilots who own Mooney aircrafts and fly to different airports throughout Florida for lunch meetings. Several Mooney Lunch Club members flew into Leesburg International Airport to watch Taisch receive his award. Rock Rockcastle, a representative of the Federal Aviation Administration’s safety team, presented the award.

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1 // LAKE SQUARE MALL: What’s the deal with the Lake Square Mall sale? Possibly NO deal with the Kohan contract in trouble.

2 // MOUNT DORA gets recycling cans! Here’s an idea I hope all of Lake and Sumter will… recycle.

3 // ANOTHER CLERMONT SINKHOLE! Officials saying this problem isn’t getting worse, discovering yet another hole in their story.

4 // SOCHI OLYMPICS: So exciting to watch.

So proud of our athletes. So many great sports moments. So… guess I’ll go back to ignoring most of those sports for another four years.

5 // SEXUAL PREDATOR sting catches 22. Please tell me there is a special cell waiting for the jerk that showed up with a Happy Meal.

6 // PRESIDENT: Beacon College gets a new president! Let’s hope he works well with Leesburg’s new King and Queen after Mardi Gras.

7 // UMATILLA man arrested after falling asleep during alleged burglary. Is there is a charge for being “asleep at the steal?”

8 // THE LEGO MOVIE: The new hit film has turned me into a real blockhead, one brightly colored piece at a time.

THRIVING MISS DAISY

Newly engaged? Bob shares some of his wedding planning expertise on page 50

THEHITLIST

Bob Tucker, owner of Miss Daisy’s Flowers & Gifts in Leesburg, recently won first place in the Floriology Institute Florist Design competition held in Jacksonville. During the competition, he and five other floral designers were tasked with completing three separate floral arrangement projects in three hours.

“It was nerve-racking, but I thoroughly enjoyed going against other talented florists,” said Bob, who is a Florida State Master Designer (FSMD).

“Competition design is obviously much different from everyday design.”

His first-place finish earned him $500 and a

scholarship to attend the Floriology Institute.

“I did not compete in this competition for the prizes. I did it because I love what I do and the experience of seeing how other florists design. The educational component is invaluable.”

Held in Jacksonville, the competition was part of Napco and Bloomnet’s Fresh Forum 2014, which attracted 150 florists from 25 states. Attendees enjoyed live demonstrations and training workshops.

As a representative for Bloomnet, Bob promotes the floral industry and provides education.

“It is almost sinful that people pay me for what I love to do,” he says. “I want to be an innovator rather than an imitator.”

FULFILLING COLLEGE DREAMS The Lake-Sumter State College Foundation raised $261,380 during its Annual Campaign, which ran from September through December. That amount exceeded the foundation’s goal of $235,000.

The funds will support various student initiatives, including scholarships, programs, technology, funding for books, and other essential student needs. The Annual Campaign is important because the scholarships students receive can potentially mean the difference between graduating college and dropping out.

In 2013, the foundation provided 628 students with scholarships that totaled more than $612,000.

“We are most appreciative of the tremendous support we receive from our community,” says Rosanne Brandeburg, executive director of the L-SSC Foundation. “It is because of people’s generosity that LakeSumter State College is able to make it possible for so many students to have the opportunity to achieve their dream of a college education.”

DID YOU KNOW?

The lifetime earning of someone with a bachelor’s degree is $2.1 million, while someone with only a high school diploma earns $1.2 million.

Source: United States Census Bureau

EXPANDING HER VISION Lake County School Board member Rosanne Brandeburg was appointed as chairwoman of the Central Florida School Boards Coalition in December. Brandeburg, who was first elected as school board member in 2008, will lead the coalition with school districts from Brevard, Hillsborough, Lake, Manatee, Marion,

Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, and Volusia counties.

She also serves as the legislative liaison for the Lake County School Board and is a board member of the Florida School Boards Association. In 2010, Brandeburg earned the certified school board member designation.

Laying a solid foundation The Community Foundation of South Lake recently hired two staff members to its team.

Bryan Williams is the new executive director, and Kathy Smith will serve as director of community relations.

Williams comes to the organization with nearly a decade of nonprofit management experience, including his most recent role as chief financial officer of Halifax Humane Society in Daytona Beach. He also served as the marketing and special events director of the National Kidney Foundation of Florida, which is headquartered in Orlando.

Smith has eight years of

experience in the nonprofit sector. Her most recent stint was with Winter Garden’s Foundation Academy, where she was director of development.

She was also involved with a capital campaign that helped develop the school’s

south campus in 2008.

“The Community Foundation is excited with the addition of these two fine individuals,” says Rocky Destefano, president of the foundation’s board of directors.

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First things first // person of interest Movers and shakers

VITAL STATS AGE: 99 MARITAL STATUS: Married to Doris Blanding, 96.

RECENT ACCOLADES: Howard recently received a letter congratulating him for being a Mason for 67 years.

COLLECTOR: Howard has collected everything a person can imagine — old woodworking tools, coins, stamps. Moreover, photography has always been a big hobby.

PEOPLE DON’T KNOW: He’s the oldest living retired New York State trooper.

a cow. Killed the cow, bent the handlebars.

We had to wire my dad for money to get back home.

LIVE TO RIDE: In 1936, I passed the exam to join the New York State Police and became a state trooper. They knew I rode so that is how I ended up on the motorcycle patrol.

RETIRED NEW YORK STATE TROOPER

FROM TOYS: In the 1930s, I worked at Fisher-Price in an old frame house in my hometown of East Aurora, N.Y. There was a woman at a desk in one corner and a desk for Mr. Fisher or Mr. Price in the other.

They would give me a lithograph of a duck or an animal stuck on wood and covered with a copper template. Then I would saw around that on a big band saw.

TO TWO-WHEELS: My first motorcycle was a hunk of junk — a 1921 Harley that was frozen to the ground. My grandfather and I

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pried it loose, took it home, took it apart, and somehow got it running. I paid 10 bucks for it and sold it for $20.

ON THE ROAD: In October 1935, another fellow and I thought we would ride to Florida.

I had my first decent bike then: a 1931 Harley-Davidson. We had an old WWI canvas trunk and a blanket roll across the handlebars, then away we went.

ROUND TRIP: We dumped it coming down a hill in West Virginia, and in Georgia, we hit

SUBMARINE PATROL: I served for three and a half years on a patrol craft, PC-469, which was a 180-foot sub chaser. You couldn’t dwell on whether or not a torpedo would hit you.

TALES FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC: I was at Iwo Jima. Our ship was a control vessel, and we watched as those Marines went ashore.

They were really something. Nothing happened until they got ashore; then all hell broke loose. Oh, it was noisy. I don’t enjoy fireworks anymore.

MADE IN JAPAN: We were on a little island near Okinawa when a kamikaze came right at us. If he had hit us, we would have died.

But at the last second he flew over us, and we blasted the hell out of him. I saved a splinter from a hunk of the propeller that was floating in the water.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: I turn 100 on June 26. It surprises me, too. It’s a mystery, a gift, and by the grace of God.

STORY: GARY MCKECHNIE PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

HOWARD BLANDING

SAFETY FIRST: We wore Stetson hats, not helmets, back then. The first few weeks you damn near broke your neck because the brim was so stiff it would pull your head back as you rode. I never knew why the hat didn’t fly off.

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First things first // outstanding student Making the grade

VITAL STATS SHE’S ‘A’ OKAY: Elsie has maintained straight A’s since enrolling at Christian Home and Bible School.

YOU HAD BETTER RECOGNIZE: An aspiring doctor, Elsie was nominated to attend the prestigious Congress of Future Medical Leaders by Dr. Connie Mariano, who serves as medical director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists.

JUGGLING ACT: In addition to maintaining good grades, Elsie has participated on the school’s golf and tennis teams.

physicians or go into medical research fields. I met students from across the country, as well as some of the nation’s top medical professionals. For me, it was quite fascinating to hear about the future of medicine and medical technology.

I MOVED TO THE UNITED STATES from the Fujian Province in China more than a year ago.

I wanted to receive the best education possible. My parents are still in China, but I live with my host mother, Nancy Beatty, who is also my English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher.

AT FIRST, I only spoke a little English. I told myself not to become frustrated because I would eventually speak the language fluently. I read all kinds of books to improve, and I even did some of my ESOL classes through Skype. I picked up on things very quickly.

FOR ME, STUDYING IS VERY important and that is what I do most nights until 1a.m. My parents always preached to me about working hard to meet all my goals and dreams.

EVEN THOUGH I ENJOY STUDYING, I do not think earning good grades is everything. You can achieve success without making good grades. God gave everyone special talents and abilities. You must discover your God-given talent and work hard to continue developing that talent.

ELSIE ZHAO

AGE : 1 7 SOPHOMORE AT CHRISTIAN HOME AND BIBLE SCHOOL

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I ASPIRE TO BECOME an emergency room physician. I like the idea of treating everything from broken bones to high fevers.

I WILL STUDY MEDICINE at Washington University in St. Louis. This university has a very challenging medical school and also has a pre-med program for undergraduate students.

I RECENTLY EXPERIENCED a once-in-alife opportunity when I attended the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Washington, D.C. This program is for high school students who desire to become

THERE IS QUITE A DIFFERENCE between American schools and Chinese schools. In America, students leave the classroom as soon as the bell rings. In China, teachers make you remain in the classroom if they are not finished teaching a lesson. Also, students remain in one classroom all day in China, while the teachers are the ones who move around to different classrooms.

MY FAVORITE SUBJECT is math because I’m more of a logical thinker. I am not very creative and do not draw or paint.

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

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A SERVICE OF MARCH 2014 ISSUE www.ocalaice.com

INSTITUTE OF CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE

inside the cath lab what makes ours different

LIMBSTITUTE COMPREHENSIVE VEIN CARE AND LIMB SALVAGE

in step

with a cardio waltz program

The newest member of ice

Dr.Donald Liebelt

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

“Dancing can be magical and transforming. I’ve seen many patients fall in love with dancing and greatly improved their quality of life without even realizing they have adopted an exercise regime.”

— Dr. Asad Qamar

May we have this dance?

// INSTITUTE OF CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE //

Our cath lab can

This issue of IMPULSE shines a spotlight on the benefits of dance—from the intricate moves performed by the skilled staff who perform catheterization procedures in our cath labs at ICE to yes, actual dance—as in, Cardio Waltz.

Here at the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence we are fortunate to be able to provide our patients with the very latest in proven technologies and advanced medical equipment. But state-of-the-art machines, while important, are only half of the equation. People are the other half and we are blessed to have the support of a remarkable team of medical professionals not only in our cath labs but throughout the Institute as well.

As nice as our staff is, I know most people would prefer to never have to meet them under those circumstances. One way to stay out of the cath lab is to commit to a regular exercise regimen. Nothing new there. But waltzing your way to fitness? That is new. Cardio Waltz is a program that injects a healthy dose of fun and social interaction into exercise. Those in need of something different or who just can’t find an exercise program they like well enough to stick with are discovering the health benefits of Cardio Waltz. Studies show that dance improves balance, strength, stamina—and most of all it’s fun. See you on the dance floor!

Yours,

It’s called the Cardiac Catheterization Lab but it is so much more than that. Not only does it perform Left and Right Heart Catheterizations, the lab also does Carotid Artery Angiography, Cardioversions, TEE’s, IVC filter placements, Lower Extremity, Visceral, Renal and Subclavian Angiography and Interventions. We treat Peripheral Arterial Disease with angioplasty, atherectomy, stenting or thrombectomy. Peripheral Venous Disease with Radiofrequency Ablation, Laser, and Sclerotherapy among other procedures.

There are 2.7 million cardiac caths performed in the U.S. each year.

We continually upgrade equipment and technology to keep them all state-ofthe-art. A full complement of the latest hemodynamic monitoring, procedural and nursing documentation software and imaging/ archival systems are the newest additions to the list. But critical as having the latest equipment and technology is, it’s important to realize that a cath lab is much more than the sum of its state-of-the-art parts.

The hands prepping the procedures and ultimately using all that equipment are the real secret behind getting a superior result. Good news for our patients—the professionals in our ICE cath lab are all “old hands” at achieving success no matter how challenging the procedure. The team has grown from 6 in the early years to 30 today and they’ve

1912

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

Frizt Bleichroeder records the earliest procedures of cardiac catheterization on humans without x-ray imaging.

A D VE RT ISE M E NT

“In my opinion, a good physician is as much a teacher as a diagnostician and care manager“

X-ray of cardiac catheterization

—Dr. Donald Liebelt

worked together so long— many for over fifteen years— that they operate as a singleminded unit, anticipating and complementing one another day after day. At the head of the team, Dr. Qamar sets the example: work hard and serve your patients with your best knowledge and a singleminded devotion. As a result, patients who come to ICE requiring a catheterization can be assured they will receive the very best care possible from a team of experts unsurpassed in both their skill levels and their compassion.

So, while the equipment in our ICE cath labs is the

very definition of state-ofthe-art and we are justifiably proud of that, the skilled team of people who put that equipment and the technology to use deserves equal credit. The Board of Medicine at the Florida Department of Health agrees.

They have licensed the facility and staff of ICE as a Level II Office Surgery Center because we meet or exceed standards of care required to perform outpatient surgical procedures. That means, whatever needs to be done to repair or maintain a healthy cardiovascular system—the cath lab at ICE can do it.

// INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE //

Donald Liebelt, MD

specializes in the “golden rule.”

Dr. Don Liebelt has been on both sides of the hospital bed. Much of his youth was spent in doctors’ offices dealing with a congenital foot problem. “I had to visit a doctor every two months from age 12 to age 20... and most of those visits involved two hours in the waiting room prior to being seen…Obviously, we can’t guarantee timeliness. You never know how sick a patient is or how much time an individual is going to need. But I am very sensitive to patient wait time.”

Dr. Liebelt practiced in clinics and hospitals in Georgia and Florida, before finally finding a ideal fit with the team at The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence. “Being associated with a top notch cardiovascular group was a key factor when I was first considering coming on board with ICE. They clearly have a philosophy where the patient comes first.” Here at ICE as well as at Dr. Liebelt’s previous practices, Dr. Don employs a highly personalized approach to patient care. “One of the things that I think I do well is listen carefully to my patients. Hidden in their description of symptoms are clues that can often be the only thing that gives you a sense of what the real problem is. I try to take the ‘Sherlock Holmes’ approach … combining facts, test results, symptom clues and logic to get to the diagnosis.”

Dr. Don Liebelt is a perfect addition to the family at ICE. Not only is the way he practices modeled deliberately on the Golden Rule—“My philosophy… is based upon how I would like my own family to be treated.” It also happens to fit beautifully with the vision behind The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence. As it turns out…“It’s one of many reasons I joined ICE.”

A D VE RT ISE M E NT

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

put ice on it.

Feel like hitting the dance floor?

Dr. Ferns will begin a new Cardio Waltz Program in the spring! Drop a line to Cardiowaltz@gmail.com for more information. // THE LIMBSTITUTE //

It’s as simple as 1-2-3, 1-2-3…

“Cardio Waltz” is what it’s called and it is the latest fitness craze to get people up and off the couch. Why all the talk? Probably because gliding across a dance floor with a partner in your arms beats pounding out miles on a treadmill any day. Cardio Waltz is more fun. It’s more social. And the best part? It actually works!

Waltzing burns about 380-400 calories an hour. Not necessarily enough to create a major change in health, but it’s certainly enough to maintain it. An Italian study tracked patients for eight weeks through a rehab program. Half waltzed their way through it, while the other half spent their time on a treadmill. Objective testing at the end for oxygen consumption, vital capacity and ventilation capacity showed more substantial improvements in the dancers.

Cardio Waltz is not as easy as it sounds. Holding frame, supporting a partner, and flexing those quads gives you a real workout. Balance improves. Strength increases.

Self-confidence grows. But perhaps the real secret to why Cardio Waltz delivers outstanding results is because it’s enjoyable. The more you like something, the more likely you’ll continue with it.

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Before they make the biggest commitment of their lives and become husband and wife, these couples tested their compatibility with Style’s special version of “The Nearlywed Game.” Let’s meet our contestants.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

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Meet

STEVE ELLI & SUSAN SNELL Work and their love of music brought Susan and Steve together.

“We met at a Battle of the Bands event I organized at Ferran Park in Eustis,” explains Susan. “Steve volunteered to run the sound and manage the stage.”

After chatting for months about the fundraiser’s details, they began to form an unexpected bond. By the end of the night, Susan admits she was already sad about not talking to Steve on a regular basis anymore. “I told him I was going to have ‘Steve withdrawals’,” she says.

However, it was Steve who suffered withdrawals and called Susan two weeks later to ask her out. Sadly, Susan wasn’t aware it was a date. “He was doing a show at a local venue and asked me if I wanted to hang out, so I said yes.

After that, he would call me to hang out, but I didn’t know we were dating until two months later when he asked me to spend the Christmas holiday with him and his family.”

Oblivious to how he felt, Susan declined. “I didn’t hear from him for three days, so I finally called him and

he said he thought we were dating,” she says. “He then officially asked me out, and we had our first date on New Year’s Eve.” Four years later, Steve picked New Year’s Eve again to be the day he would propose. He popped the question onstage at the House of Blues in Orlando. “Originally we were going to go to the mountains but it didn’t work out, so I quickly made arrangements to do it at the House of Blues,” Steve says. “I had been thinking about proposing for a year. I didn’t want to let her get away.”

Susan says she was completely surprised. After the end of her first marriage, she had completely written off getting married again. “I said never again. Plus, Steve and I had talked several times about not getting married so I didn’t think he would ask.”

Steve, on the other hand, says it was Susan’s headstrong attitude that changed his mind… and the fact they are so similar. “We are so much alike that it’s scary,” Susan says. “I know what he likes and how he’s going to answer a question. Being with someone just like me takes the guesswork out of our relationship.”

And while Susan and Steve haven’t picked a date yet, they are certain on one thing. “We’re country so we’re going to have a barn wedding,” says Susan.

As for Steve, he just plans on showing up when it is time to say, “I do.” “When my alarm goes off on my calendar and I see my clothes laid out, I’ll know it’s time,” he says with a laugh.

Meet

KYLE COLE & KRISTEN SELLARS

Kyle didn’t like Kristen being the quiet girl at the party, so with some gentle ribbing he encouraged her to talk.

“I told her she didn’t have to be so quiet. It was a party. That’s how we ended up having a conversation,” Kyle says.

Kristen thought he was a nice guy, and later that week, Kyle found Kristen on Facebook and asked for her phone number. Then, while she was on vacation, Kyle asked her to attend his birthday celebration. The next week, they had their first date, which was a success.

“I thought she was relaxed and really mellow,” says Kyle. “She wasn’t high maintenance at all.”

Kristen thought Kyle was extremely sweet.

“He was an absolute gentleman,” she says. “He was just so easy to talk to.”

Overtime, the couple grew a friendship that helped build a strong foundation to their relationship.

“I feel like I can tell him anything, and I love his personality,” says Kristen. “There was never a specific moment where I knew I wanted to spend my life with Kyle. I just always had it in the back of my mind.”

Last June, Kyle arranged for the message “Will you marry me?” to be posted on the signboard at Ramshackle Café in Leesburg; Kristen accepted his proposal without hesitation.

“My whole family was there. I was so happy,” she says.

Their wedding date is June 21. Everything is pretty much set for the big day, thanks to the help of a wedding planner. It will be an indoor, traditional ceremony at the couple’s church.

“Deep down, she has the same values as I do.

That’s one of the things I love most about her,” says Kyle. “Three to four months into our relationship, she became like my best friend. She’s my rock that keeps me sane.”

Together, the couple says they are laidback, but still fun and energetic.

“And awesome! We’re like a magic carpet ride,” says Kyle with a laugh.

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Meet

BEAU NACKE & KIRSTEN GERMEROTH To Kirsten, Beau was always just her brother-in-law’s best friend. So when he called her out of the blue to ask her out on a date, she didn’t know what to think.

“We had both just gotten out of relationships, and I was certain my brother-in-law had pushed him into calling me,” says Kirsten. “I decided to go on the date because when I met him at my sister’s baby shower, he seemed like a nice guy.”

For their first date, Beau kept it simple with dinner and a movie.

However, he won over Kirsten with his amazing sense of humor. “I couldn’t stop laughing,” she says. “He is extremely funny.”

They began dating in July 2012 and became an official couple in October of the same year. Beau admits that he soon found himself loving Kirsten’s company whenever they were together. “That’s when I knew I wanted to be more serious,” he says.

So, on Dec. 21, Beau whisked Kirsten off to the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando for a lovely dinner.

She was unaware, however, that Beau had arranged for her family to be at the hotel on one of the balconies so they could witness the proposal. “I told Beau that if he ever proposed, my family would have to be there,” she says. “When he proposed I looked around for my family and couldn’t see

them. Then I looked up and saw them all on the balcony. I couldn’t talk; I had no idea he was going to ask me to marry him.”

Nevertheless, Kirsten already knew in her heart the answer would be “yes.” From the beginning, she cherished the way Beau got along with her family and adored his patient and kind nature. “Plus, he treats me like a princess,” she says with a laugh.

The couple will be tying the knot on Dec. 20 in downtown Orlando. And the date couldn’t be early enough; Kirsten says her and Beau’s families are ready for them to finally become Mr. and Mrs. Nacke. “They are definitely ready for it to happen,” she says. “And we’re both excited, too. I can’t wait.”

Meet

CHASE WEST & BRIDGETTE BERISFORD

Chase met Bridgette at a St. Patrick’s Day party at the University of Florida. However, it would be another six months before the two would talk again.

“He tweeted a quote or something and as I joke, I responded back with ‘Marry me,’” says Bridgette.

Little did she know the bit of shameless flirting would lead to her packing her bags to visit Chase three weeks later in Nashville, where he was attending school. Chase and Bridgette spent the next eight months traveling back and forth between Gainesville and Nashville, with Atlanta serving as a midway meeting place on occasion.

But after a while, the constant trips began to wear on the young couple. So in September 2012, Chase decided to relocate to Florida.

“What really influenced my decision to move was visiting in July to celebrate Bridgette’s birthday. We rented a beach house in Daytona and had friends and family come stay with us. That’s when I started to see myself with her for the rest of my life,” Chase says. “Two months later, I made plans to move.”

Bridgette, however, says she knew she wanted to marry Chase way before her birthday. “I was at a point in my life where I was happy being single, but I always said if God brought me somebody that would be cool, too. Chase was the one I prayed about. Our love just grew stronger.”

This past December, Chase orchestrated a very elaborate but top-secret proposal. “Bridgette has a Christmas party with her family every year, so I had friends come in from out of town. I set up candles under the gazebo behind her parent’s house and had rose petals leading from the back door up to the gazebo.”

When they arrived, Chase led Bridgette through the empty house and to the gazebo where he proposed. “I started crying,” says Bridgette. “Then my family and friends came from around the house and formed a circle around us. I had no idea it was going to happen.”

Though they don’t have an exact date for their wedding yet, Chase and Bridgette have tentatively selected May of next year as the month they will exchange vows.

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Allergy & Asthma Care of F lorida

Offering Care for: Pediatric and Adult Allergies & Asthma Insect Allergies Food Allergies Hives, Sinusitis & More

Physicians Board Certified by the AMERICAN BOARD OF ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

G. Edward Stewart II, M.D.

Thomas L. Johnson II, M.D.

Beau Caruthers, ARNP

CELEBRATING 30+YEARS!

1501 US Hwy 441 N., Suite 1406,The Villages, FL 32159 (352) 753-1422 • OPEN FOUR DAYS A WEEK

CLINICAL RESEARCH DIVISION (352) 629-2223 NOW ENROLLING IN CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDIES!

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1740 SE 18th Street, Suite 1002 Ocala, FL 34471

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:

I have a neck mass. Do I need to have it checked out?

There are several causes for neck masses. Let’s start with the ones that appear on the sides. There are two salivary glands, which can swell quickly and cause a neck mass.

One is the parotid gland, which appears first behind the ear lobe. This can be painful if the area swells quickly enough. You can become quite ill if you quit drinking fluids due to the painful swelling. The same is true of the submandibular gland, which first presents as a mass just underneath the jaw. It can also be the cause of systemic toxicity should the gland become infected. Antibiotics can treat this situation. Should a fever result, IV fluids and antibiotics may be required for treatment. Any neck mass that causes redness of the skin along with painful swelling and fever will need to be closely looked at due to the fact an abscess can form.

Dr. Judith C. Milstead

Q:

I have seen recent ads and commercials. What is Face 2 Face Aesthetic & Wellness Center all about?

A:

Face 2 Face is Lake ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery’s Wellness Division. It’s primary goal is to focus on a “healthier you.” It offers a wide array of services, including nutrition, weight management, skin care, massage, spa services, etc. Various seminars and screening programs will be offered to promote wellness. Visit Face2FaceFL.com for further details and a calendar of events.

Dr. Dino Madonna Learn more about sinus conditions and the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure at our dedicated website www.LakeSinusRelief.com To learn more about FREE upcoming seminars, screenings and special offers from our wellness division, please visit Face2FaceFL.com or subscribe to our exclusive e-newsletter by sending an email to Face2FaceFL@Gmail.com

Scan the code for a video tour of Face2Face

THE VILLAGES 352.753.8448 LEESBURG 352.728.2404 TAVARES 352.343.7279 LakeENT.net

Local wedding and event planner Bob Tucker of Miss Daisy’s Flower & Gifts shares his insights on current wedding trends and what couples need to know to create an affair to remember.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

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LIVE AND IN COLOR Just from color choices, Bob can tell a lot about a bride.

“The colors tell me about the bride’s personality,” says Bob. “For example, if a bride likes yellow that tells me she is outgoing, energetic, and cheerful.”

And from there, it trickles down to other important details like the wedding gown, flowers, the cake, and even the venue. Over the years, Bob says he has learned that canned weddings do no couple justice; therefore, when he consults with a future bride about her big day, he always strives to make things personalized. And the best starting point always seems to be color. “For example, I have a bride right now and her favorite color is red, so she is doing a Snow White themed wedding,” he says. “Color is very important.”

In Bob’s world, color choices are a clear indication of what type of wedding a bride will want. “Traditional black, white, and red colors mean a more traditional type wedding, though there’s nothing traditional about weddings anymore,” he explains.

“Blues, beiges, earth tones, and pastels mean the bride is looking for something more casual and mainstream. Bright colors like yellow, hot pink, and lime green automatically let me know the bride is fun and wants a fun wedding.”

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Themes are incredibly trendy right now. From modern to classic to vintage, themes can also heavily influence color choices. For example, Bob explains that rustic weddings, which have become increasingly popular in the area, often embrace neutral, earthy colors.

“Think mason jars with burlap and baby’s breath,” he says. “Everything is very natural and countryinspired.”

.com

Each year, the Pantone Color of the Year influences wedding color trends.

This year’s color is RADIANT ORCHID, a bright, rich purple with fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones. “From furniture to paint, people should expect to see this tone everywhere,” says Bob. “I’ve already started seeing brides use this color not necessarily in their dresses but with other details like linens on their tables and flowers.”

When it comes to flowers, Bob is an expert. He recently won first place in the Floriology Institute Florist Design competition held in Jacksonville. He is also a Florida State Master Designer. As a wedding planner, Bob tries the drive home the importance of investing in good floral arrangements for a wedding.

Using Florists’ Review’s “The American Floral Trends Forecast 2014–2015,” Bob notes four trends that are sure to be on the rise: POETIC NATURE: This style is very romantic with just a touch of old-fashioned flair. It’s all about textures, natural fibers, and organic elements. Floral materials include roses, garden roses, peonies, hydrangeas, lilacs, stocks, tulips, lisianthuses, heather, dusty miller, and lamb’s ear foliage. The anchor colors tend to be muted, gentle tones of cream, gray, and rose paired with colors ranging from dusty blush to brightened lilac.

FLUID NATURE: The ocean and sky inspire this particular style, giving weddings a more spa-like ambiance. Hydrangeas, lavender, rosemary, waxflowers, variegated ivy, irises, and ranunculi are just a few of the floral choices associated with this striking concept.

SUSTAINABLE NATURE: Think autumn-inspired, wholesome, and rural. With many of the colors mimicking the shades of fresh fall produce (such as beets, figs, and pomegranates), the floral materials bring that theme to life. Kale, succulents, dahlias, zinnias, fig leaves, gerberas, and exotic spider flowers all hit the right note.

SYNTHETIC NATURE: If you love vibrant colors, eclectic elegance, and ethnic accents, then this concept may be for you. Callas, liatrises, kangaroo paws, alliums, and “Green Trick” dianthuses make this fun, artistic, youthful trend pop.

FRESH AS A DAISY Hydrangeas, roses, and Gerber daisies are proving to be prevalent with local brides, Bob says. In addition, there is a growing trend with pairing flowers with succulents for a more robust, sustainable look. Once known as “grandma’s flowers,” baby’s breath and Queen Anne’s lace are seeing a return in demand, and brides looking to embrace Florida’s subtropical climate are choosing to incorporate more tropical, exotic flowers in their arrangements.

When you look back at photographs of your wedding, you want to take comfort in knowing you made a great investment in beautiful arrangements. It’s more important than most brides realize. Flowers contribute to the overall look of the event.

— BOB TUCKER

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SAYING ‘YES!’ TO THE RIGHT DRESS In the 80s, we loved puffy sleeves, obnoxiously long trains, and lace — tons of lace. In the 90s, things became a lot simpler. Silhouettes started becoming sleeker and dresses more minimalist.

However, fast forward to 2014 and Bob says brides are letting personal style and budget do the talking.

In the battle of strapless dresses versus sleeved dresses, Bob believes it is about equal. Once thought to be completely chaste, long sleeves of today are featuring striking lace or floral embellishments — and even crystals — to show off the bride’s stylishness.

Curve-hugging silhouettes are also quite chic right now with brides looking to embrace mermaid- and sheathstyle dresses. Also contributing to the shape of many dresses on the market are asymmetrical pickup skirts, sheer overlay, peplum skirts, cascading organza, and tulle.

“I’m also seeing a lot of feathers for the skirts,” says Bob. “And instead of brides wearing pure white, they are opting for a more pearl white. They are also loving embellishments like rhinestones, pearls, and sequins. At least 90 percent of the dresses I see have some type of embellishment. The showier and flashier the dress, the better.”

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Gone are the days when little girls fantasized about wearing their mother’s wedding dress. Bob says modern brides are still incorporating their mother’s gowns into the ceremony, but in different and unique ways.

“I’ve had brides cut up their mother’s old wedding dress and use it as tablecloth,” he says. “I’ve also seen brides use the lace from their mother’s dress as a part of their bouquet, wrapping the lace around the stems of the flowers. This is really becoming popular with brides seeking a more rural-inspired theme.”

At one time, long, cathedral-style veils were all the rage. Now, Bob says he sees brides are doing away with veils all together.

“They want to wear hair pieces that can be seen,” he says.

“If a bride does wear a veil it’s usually very short.”

And veils aren’t the only things getting nipped short.

Wedding dress trains have also gotten shorter over the years.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF BELLA COLLINA

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Over the last five years, Bob has only planned two church weddings. Times have changed. Couples are constantly on the lookout for new and exciting venues to host their big day. Fortunately, for brides who want to keep things local, a wide range of places exist that can fit any budget.

For those looking to create an unforgettable day, venues such as Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howeyin-the-Hills, Grand Oaks

Resort & Museum in Lady Lake, and Bella Collina in Montverde remain local favorites. Each venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience, ranging from romantic Southern outdoor beauty to Tuscany inspired design.

Bob also sees many couples springing for other well-known event venues such as the Leesburg Opera House, the Mount Dora Yacht Club, the Leesburg Boat Club, and the Wildwood Community Center.

One of the unique features of the Leesburg Opera House is its 19th century antique bar, which was salvaged from the Washington Hotel in Indianapolis and can be used as a bar or a buffet serving

area. Both the Mount Dora Yacht Club and the Leesburg Boat Club offer amazing views of some of Lake County’s most beautiful bodies of water. And the Wildwood Community Center has all the amenities in place for a seamless day of fun, laughter, and endless memories.

And for those going for a more intimate affair, Bob says many couples are opting for backyard weddings on the water.

“With so many lakes in the county, people are bound to know one person who has a home on the water,” he says. “But those weddings are typically for people looking to have less than 100 guests.”

Getting hitched isn’t just for the young. It’s also for the young at heart. Recently, Bob has planned his fair share of weddings for the 55 and older crowd.

“Villagers really love the community centers. From the Savannah Center to the SeaBreeze Regional Recreational Center, the options are there for something memorable,” he says. “And clubhouses inside retirement communities are also common venues.”

Also, inns like The Waterfront Inn at Lake Sumter Landing and Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora, along with classic venues like Lake Receptions in Mount Dora, are proving to be the quintessential romantic settings for seniors looking to say “I do.”

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Patty Smith was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer in 2012. To breathe comfortably, her pulmonologist prescribed a nebulizer that she had to use once a day. Then one day, Patty’s girlfriends stumbled across information about The Salt Room in The Villages. They got together and decided to buy her a monthly pass.

“I started going in April of 2013, and within two weeks of going, I was able to stop using my inhaler completely,” she says.

Even Patty’s doctor was pleased with the health of her lungs. “He said I shouldn’t be able to breathe as well as I do, but I attribute my improved health to The Salt Room,” Patty says. “I go every day now.”

In addition to being able to breathe easy, Patty says The Salt Room also helps her peace of mind and her overall health.

“The atmosphere at The Salt Room is just so peaceful. It really relaxes me and helps me mediate,” she says. “I’ve also noticed it has helped with my blood pressure and my heart rate, and my skin feels a lot better, too.”

SALT THERAPY

Relieve respiratory and skin ailments + strengthen immune system

ACUPUNCTURE Heal your body + reestablish your energetic balance

SKIN CARE

Correct and protect your skin with our natural methods + products

MASSAGE

Relax + soothe your mind, body, and soul

Located in Kohl’s Shopping Plaza, next to Tuesday Morning

352.750.9909 SaltRoomVillages.com

Scan this QR code with your smartphone to learn more about The Salt Room!

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Don’t know where to begin in planning your wedding? Here is a list of local businesses that can help you turn your wildest bridal dreams into reality.

BRIDEGUIDE March 20 14

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CATERERS If gratuity is not built into your caterer’s service fee, couples should expect to tip 15 to 20 percent of the total bill, which will then be divided among the staff.

Blackbear Smokehouse 18750 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.2327

blackbearsmokehouse.com

Cheeser’s Palace 707 W. Montrose St. Clermont, FL 34711

352.404.9431

cheeserspalace.com

Creative Events Catering

CAKES Most bakeries require custom cakes be ordered weeks in advance; therefore, have your order in at least two months before the wedding.

Bloom’s Baking House & Restaurant 610 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.787.1004

Cotillion Southern Café 101 N. Main St. Wildwood, FL 34785

352.748.1223 cafecotillion.com

Cupcake Delights 122 E. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.2200

mountdoracupcakes.com

Incredible Edible Cakes

4295 W. Old Hwy. 441, Ste. 2 Mount Dora, FL 32757

Sugar Britches Cupcakes P.O. Box 814 Tavares, FL 32778

352.255.8095

sugarbritchescupcakes.com

Sugar Mama’s Bake Shoppe 650 Eigth St. Clermont, FL 34711

352.241.9738

sugarmamastreats.com

Yalaha Bakery

8210 County Road 48 Yalaha, FL 34797

352.324.3366

16770 S. U.S. Hwy. 441, Ste. 601 Summerfield, FL 34491

352.693.2304

yalahabakery.com

7623 Laws Road Clermont, FL 34714

352.536.2599

creativeeventscatering.net

Orlando Caribbean Catering 13236 Via Roma Circle Clermont, FL 34711

352.536.1833

orlandocaribbeancatering.com

Gourmet Today

427 S. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.1050 saucyspoon.com

Simply Catered, Inc.

352.978.1203

gourmettodayinc.com

Pisces Rising

239 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.385.2669

piscesrisingdining.com

Presentations Catering Company 50 W. Orange Ave. Eustis, FL 32726

352.357.3900

.com

352.735.4059 ccofmtdora.com

Sugarboo’s Barbecue

352.343.5151

352.735.7675

Florida Balloon Adventures

simplycatered4u.com 1305 Grandview St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 sugarboo.com

Vic’s Embers

7940 U.S. Hwy. 441 Leesburg, FL 34788

352.728.8989 vicsembers.com

VENUES It is becoming increasingly popular for couples to choose a single venue for both the ceremony and reception. This helps cut down on travel costs and you won’t have to pay fees for two separate venues.

18000 Eagles Way Tavares, FL 32778 deerislandgolf.com

28905 Shirley Shores Road Tavares, FL 32778

352.253.0031

floridaballoonadventures.com

Grand Oaks Resort & Museum 3000 Marion County Road Lady Lake, FL 32195

352.750.5500

thegrandoaks.com

Harbor Hills Country Club

6538 Lake Griffin Road Lady Lake, FL 32159

352.753.7000 harborhills.com

Bella Collina

Heron Cay Lakeview Bed & Breakfast

407.469.4945

352.383.4050

16335 Vetta Drive Montverde, FL 34756

495 W. Old Hwy. 441 Mount Dora, FL 32757

bellacollina.com

heroncay.com

Chapel of Love

Hickory Point Recreational Facility

901 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis, FL 32726

352.483.2171 chapeloflove.cc

Clermont Garden Club

849 West Ave. Clermont, FL 34711 clermontgardenclub.com

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1900 Country Club Blvd.

Mount Dora, FL 32757

321.202.4586

352.250.0213

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Country Club of Mount Dora

Deer Island Country Club

139 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont, FL 34711

Leesburg, FL

presentationscatering.com

352.223.3581

Saucy Spoon

27341 State Road 19 Tavares, FL 32778

352.343.3777 lcwa.org

Hot Air Balloon Tours P.O. Box 332 Oxford, FL 34484

352.243.7865

hotairballoontourscentralflorida. com

Lake Receptions 4425 N. Hwy. 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.357-8223

lakereceptions.com

Lakeside Inn

100 N. Alexander St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.4101 lakeside-inn.com

Leesburg Boat Club

1 Dozier Circle Leesburg, FL 34748

352.787.8916 or 352.326.8274

Mote-Morris House

1195 W. Magnolia St. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.315.1800

Venetian Gardens

109 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.728.9885

leesburgflorida.gov

leesburgflorida.gov

Mount Dora Golf Club

Wayside at Cottom Farm

352.383.3954

352.728.1800

1100 S. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

41407 Edna C Blvd.

Weirsdale, FL 32195

mountdoragolf.com

waysideatcottomfarm.com

Mount Dora Yacht Club

Wildwood Community Center

351 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.3188

6500 County Road 139 Wildwood, FL 34785

352.330.1330, ext. 114

mountdorayachtclub.com

Rohr Balloons

2547 Lakeshore Drive Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.735.7647

leesburgboatclub.com

rohrballoons.com

Leesburg Opera House

Room: Valencia at the Citrus Tower

1300 W. North Blvd.

Leesburg, FL 34748

141 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont, FL 34711

352.728.0033

352.516.2649

leesburgoperahouse.com

valenciareceptions.com

Legends Golf and Country Club

The Duncan House

EVENT PLANNERS A wedding planner serves as your point person. They will coordinate meetings, ask the right questions, and most importantly be there to make sure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day.

A Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies for You

1700 Legendary Blvd.

Clermont, FL 34711

426 Lake Dora Drive Tavares, FL 32778

352.243.1118

352.435.5278

legendsgolfcc.com

Mission Inn Resort

The Wesley Center

3750 Liberty Hill Drive Clermont, FL 34711

352.243.4016

All Faith Wedding & Mobile Notary Services

10400 County Road 48 Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737

715 W. Juniata St. Clermont, FL 34711

missioninnresort.com

fumcwesleycenter.com

352.324.3916

Morris House

17533 Silver Creek Court Clermont, FL 34711

352.435.9424

Triangle Boat Club

12001 U.S. Hwy. 441 Tavares, FL 32778

863.256.6097

thebritishamericantoastmaster.com

Bold, Beautiful and Beyond Weddings and Events Sorrento, FL 32776

352.391.8288

boldbeautifulandbeyond.com

Chapel of Love 901 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis, FL 32726

352.483.2171 chapeloflove.cc

KJ Event Planning P.O. Box 563 Minneola, FL 34755

352.217.6212

kjeventplanning.com

Magnolia Ridge Events

Fruitland Park, FL 34731

352.636.0340

magnoliaridgeevents.com

EVENT RENTALS From tents to chandeliers to chairs, event rental companies are great for ensuring all the little details for your wedding.

Small and Intimate Wedding Planning 13355 Biscayne Drive Grand Island, FL 32735

352.357.2459

smallintimatewedding.com

A Simply Unforgettable Party Shop 556 N. U.S. Hwy. 441 Lady Lake, FL 32159

352.259.4111

Belly’s Balloons

Miss Daisy’s Flowers & Gifts

912 W. Broad St. Groveland, FL 34736

352.787.6806

Classic Tents & Events

Signature Weddings & Events, Inc.

352.357.7920

1024 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

missdaisysflowers.com

1120 W. Minneola Ave. Clermont, FL 34711

352.250.0740

signatureweddingsorlando.com

352.429.1100

bellysballoons.com 1255 E. County Road 44 Eustis, FL 32736 classictentsevents.com

Grand Rental Station Party Plus 4800 Hwy. 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.357.9242 grandrent.com

Jan’s Party Rental 238 Hatteras Ave. Clermont, FL 34711

352.241.0423

janspartyrental.com

23549 Oake Ave. Sorrento, FL 32776

352.267.7573

352.533.8398

triangleboatclub.com

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FLOWERS AND DECORATIONS

Katherine’s Florist

Accent Entertainment

Don’t book your florist last. Begin the process by speaking to one vendor from each category before booking anyone. This can help you gain an idea of what things will cost so you can budget better.

352.394.2728

352.729.1013

Ariel’s Flowers & Gifts 725 W. Main St. Tavares, FL 32778

352.343.6600

arielsflowersandgifts.com

Blossoms Arrangements of Distinction

16203 Hillside Circle Montverde, FL 34756

352.250.3278 blossomsfl.com

Bold, Beautiful and Beyond Weddings and Events Sorrento, FL 32776

352.391.8288

boldbeautifulandbeyond.com

Claudia’s Pearl Florist

3700 N. Hwy. 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.735.0012

claudiaspearlflorist.com

Clermont Florist 487 W. State Road 50 Clermont, FL 34711

352.394.6108

clermontflorist.com

Downtown Waterfront Florist 517 West Ave. Clermont, FL 34711

352.241.7567

downtownwaterfrontflorist.com

Eustis Flower Shop

114 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis, FL 32736

352.357.2421

eustisflowershop.com

Florida Florist of Lady Lake

1132 Bichara Blvd.

Lady Lake, FL 32159

352.750.1113

thevillagesflorist.com

Hall’s Flower & Gift Shop, Inc. 112 N. 14th St. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.787.7878

hallsflowers.com

1151 Seventh St. Clermont, FL 34711

katherinesflorist.com

Kim E’s Flowers 350 E. Broad St. Groveland, FL 34736

352.429.1089

kimesflowers.com

Miss Daisy’s Flowers & Gifts 1024 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.787.6806

missdaisysflowers.com

Shananne Cain Florist, Inc. 937 N. Central Ave. Umatilla, FL 32784

352.669.5994

shanannecainflorist.com

The Flower Basket 1016 E. Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778

352.343.7846

theflowerbasketflorist.com

15519 U.S. Hwy. 441, Ste. 302 Eustis, FL 32726 accentdj.com

Dreams in Motion Eustis, FL 32736

386.717.9374

dreamsinmotiondj.com

Forever Ballroom, LLC

5 Starcular Entertainment

35202 Pinegate Trail Eustis, FL 32736

866.998.6331

5starcularentertainment.com

.com

bonniewhicherphotography.com

Digital Dan Photography

19525 Spring Oak Dr. Eustis, FL 32736

352.589.0407

foreverballroom.com

352.324.2400

352.742.9461

121 East Cedar St. Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737

Smooth Musical Entertainment

dreesenphotography.com

352.267.0044

352.988.8360

13745 Via Roma Circle Clermont, FL 34711 smoothme.com

Green Images, Inc. 4070 United Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757

carolyngreenimages.com

Tomaura Live Music & Entertainment

Heidi Mitchell Photography

352.455.9427

352.516.2224

922 Cancun Court The Villages, FL 32159 tomaura.com

When hiring a photographer, make sure you build a level of trust with him or her. Have faith in your photographer to keep you on schedule, to frame the photos just right, and to know what will look best.

Ashley McCormick Photography 605 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 ashleymccormick.com

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352.253.1145

Dreesen Photography

352.516.1797

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216 N. St. Clair Abrams Ave. Tavares, FL 32778

2336 Martins Run Tavares, FL 32778

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT PHOTOGRAPHY Know your music preferences and, more precisely, the type of entertainment that fits your personal style and budget.

Bonnie Whicher Photography

P.O. Box 882 Tavares, FL 32778

heidimitchellphotography.com

Image of Florida 18848 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.205.2420 image4me.com

iPortrait Studios

a Division of Video & Photographic Images, Inc. 339 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont, FL 34711

352.242.0026

iportraitstudios.com

Malcolm Yawn Photography

334-A N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.6996

malcolmyawn.com

Mark Burke Photography

Clermont, FL 34711

352.209.4150

markburkephotography.com

mlittlephotography

24042 Plymouth Hollow Circle Sorrento, FL 32776

352.360.9008

mlittlephotography.com

Myron Leggett Studio 315 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

352.326.2967

myronleggett.com

Olivia Marie Photography

18950 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.250.2935

instyleimagery.com

Photography

by Martha

334 Sunnyside Drive Leesburg, FL 34748

352.326.5858

Visual Effects Video Productions 10449 Reagans Run Drive Clermont, FL 34711

407.312.0966

visualeffectsbyseth.com

SALONS AND SPAS As a treat for putting up with “Bridezilla,” pamper your dedicated bridal party by planning the perfect spa trip.

Aesthetic Spa & Salon

210 N. U.S. Hwy. 27, Ste. 3 Clermont, FL 34711

352.394.7721

spaandsalon.com

Affinity Day Spa

3105 Citrus Tower Blvd., Ste. B Clermont, FL 34711

352.243.3332

affinitydayspas.com

Bella Collina Spa 16355 Vetta Drive Montverde, FL 34756

407.469.4001 bellacollina.com

Capillo Salon and Day Spa

503 E. Orange Ave. Eustis, FL 32726

352.483.9303 capillosalon.com

Clermont Herb Shoppe & Day Spa 702 W. Montrose St. Clermont, FL 34711

352.243.3588

clermontherbshoppe.com

Couture Skin

211 Citrus Tower Blvd.

Clermont, FL 34711

352.536.1772 coutureskin.net

Essential Therapies Garden Spa 1518 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.735.0044

Grand Oaks Resort & Museum 3000 Marion County Road Lady Lake, FL 32195

Pure Aveda Salonspa 206 W. Fifth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757

352.383.9091

352.750.5500

pureaveda.com

Hand and Stone

Robert + Robert Salon and Spa

352.227.1470

352.383.7500

thegrandoaks.com 2301 U.S. Hwy. 441 Clermont, FL 34711 handandstone.com

3911 Hwy. 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757

robertandrobertsalon.com

Healthy Alternatives Day Spa & Training Institute

Spa Marbella at Mission Inn Resort & Club

352.735.7555

352.324.2024 x 7721

1107 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

healthyalternativesdayspa.com

J. Scotts Skin Care & Day Spa 214 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

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Michael’s Couture Salon 401 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 34748

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Perfect 10 Salon Company

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Pin Up’s Salon 100 S. Fourth St. Leesburg, FL 34748

10400 County Road 48 Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737

TRANSPORTATION Traffic jams, sudden delays, and shuttling people in multiple cars could cause a few hiccups if you don’t time it just right. To avoid any problems, add 20 to 30 minutes to each trip.

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Trinity Spa

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Vitruvian Health Center 353 Plaza Drive Eustis, FL 32726

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Voltaire Mobile Spa

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2750 Hartsock Sawmill Road Lady Lake, FL 32159 candmtravel.com

Hurst Limousine Service 10826 Priebe Road Clermont, FL 34711

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Mount Dora Trolley Company 100 N. Alexander St. Mount Dora, FL 32757

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March 20 14

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Blossom This Spring - by Rejuvenating Yourself!

The Polar Vortex has caused one of the coldest winters on record this season and we feel very fortunate to enjoy our “Florida Winters.” But spring is almost here! For many, wintertime is a trade-off that’s been happening for years: as soon as the cold weather hits, snowbirds from the north travel down south to enjoy the warmth and comforts of the Florida sunshine! But why not look and feel young again before going back up north?

Now is the perfect time to have facial plastic surgery done before you head back up north - no one will know what you’ve done! Surprise your family and friends with a more rejuvenated appearance, just in time for spring, and take time to enjoy the little things again!

Make your return trip in style, by letting the doctors at ImageLift blossom your inner youthfulness.

The ImageLift Facelift is your best guarantee to getting the ultimate look that you want! Our most popular facelift is split into three categories: 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.

Medium – You need the MOST improvement right under your chin, the best result on profile.

Large – You need the most improvement you can have with one procedure, you want general anesthesia (though it can be performed under local

anesthesia by some doctors), and you are comfortable with more extended recovery times.

Remember, other treatments can be good in the interim, but the ImageLift Facelift gets “Wow” results. If you need even just a little perk-up, we offer 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.

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

THIS PATIENT HAD THE IMAGELIFT AND A LONG-TERM FILLER.

RESULTS ARE TYPICAL AND DO VARY.

Meet The Docs At An Upcoming Seminar!

11

Tuesday, March 11th @ 11:00 AM Laser Luncheon at the Villages Office

13

Thursday, March 13th @ 1:00 PM Seminar at the Waterfront Inn

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

“

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

”

FINANCIAL SERVICES

ONE NAME. ONE RULE.

DON’T LOSE

MONEY.

BAUM FINANCIAL:ON THE MONEY FINALLY, A FINANCIAL RETIREMENT PLAN THAT MAKES CENTS. Retiring to The Villages and

you use those funds, you replace them.

uses products and fixed annuities

surrounding area can offer an

Or, you build them up and then replace

that guarantee your principal from

exhilarating lifestyle. That’s assuming

them. What is important is you always

loss. Annuities were developed

you are smart about managing the

replenish the lifestyle account from the

specifically for retirement and

money you’ve saved for retirement.

additional income you will receive and

retirement planning and are rich

In the past, many retirees relied on

never let that account diminish to zero.

with features that should be used.

Social Security and company pension

That is your comfort financial pillow.

And, what is income if it is not

After first establishing your

free from taxation? The company’s

plans to guarantee they could live relatively comfortable. However,

lifestyle account, Gerald then goes

approach not only can provide more

because pension plans have declined

to work on your income. Many of

income but can also lower taxes

and Social Security faces an uncertain

his clients immediately say, “I don’t

significantly with the proper and

future, retirees are looking to alternative

need more income.” Gerald’s reply

strategic use of fixed annuities.

plans to fund their retirement.

is this: “I am very fortunate. Very

That is why Baum maintains a full-

few of our clients actually need

time CPA and a tax department

your money in a volatile stock market,

additional income. Most of the

to provide important tax work

why not grow your retirement savings

income we provide our clients is

and preparation for its clients.

with no market risk?

not for ‘critical planning’ to pay

“Each client who comes here

bills or for fixed expenses. Income

receives more income, pays fewer

Hill, and Naples, Baum Financial

enhances their lifestyle. When

taxes, has guaranteed lifetime

Services has become one of America’s

our clients realize their income

income, and can access cash. You

leading companies in providing fixed

can increase, all the while their

cannot paint a better financial

annuities for retirement planning.

financial resources are safe and

picture in retirement.”

Rather than possibly losing

With offices in The Villages, Spring

Since 2001, President/CEO Gerald

intact, they ask, ‘How much more

Throughout the years, clients

Baum has focused his company

income can I really get?’ The major

have appreciated Gerald’s unique

exclusively on retirement income

income is they are afraid of

combination of industry experience

planning. Baum Financial implements

running out of money — the

and youthful exuberance. His

safe money strategies that deliver

greatest fear of all for retired folks.”

energy and passion for his profession

income, safety, and security for the

It is important to have income

is one reason why nearly 35

remainder of a client’s life. Thus,

throughout your remaining years.

percent of business comes from

they can enjoy their retirement years

Therefore, every financial strategy

referrals and why the company

without worrying about finances.

Baum Financial Services develops

maintains a low attrition rate.

“With our approach, we can guarantee that 100 percent of your money is safe,” Gerald says. “If your risk tolerance is near zero, Baum Financial Services is the place for you.”

Imagine this: You have at least 10 percent of your financial assets in cash in what Gerald refers to as your “lifestyle account.” This account is used to fund your lifestyle, whatever that may be. But, it is important that account becomes a budgetary item. As

FAMILY “VALUES”

AN INTEGRAL PART OF OPERATING AND MAINTAINING A SUCCESSFUL FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANY. Having a quality staff is an integral part of operating and maintaining

comfortable when they come here.”

Financial advisor Tom Frank is

me up to meet directly with clients and concentrate on financial

a successful financial services

equally proud of being part of the

planning. I don’t have to worry

company. One of the greatest assets

Baum Financial Services team. He

about being bogged down in

of Baum Financial Services is its nine

formerly worked inside the corporate

paperwork and scheduling. I have

full-time employees who make the

office of a national financial services

an extraordinary crew, and each

business run smoothly every day and

company. “At that company, I worked

and every employee plays a vital

develop meaningful relationships

in a call center environment, and

role in the success of this company.”

with the company’s clients.

there was never any personal

Throughout the years, Gerald

The Baum Financial Services team

involvement with clients,” he says.

also includes Chief Financial Officer

has hired hardworking, committed

“Here, I enjoy meeting clients

and Certified Public Accountant

employees who cherish being part

face-to-face and getting to know

Dianne Lindholm; Controller Laura

of a close-knit, friendly workplace.

them on a personal level. This

Anne n; IT Ma na g e r Sp e nc e r

At Baum Financial Services, there

helps build trust and encourages

Dix; and Client Communications

is a sense of shared commitment

honest communication.”

Coordinator Susanne Giannetti.

among the play in the success of the

Renee Hart joined the company

company. Perhaps more importantly,

in October 2012 as client events

they enjoy each other as colleagues,

c o o rdi nat or. She sa y s G e r a ld

acquaintances, and friends.

cultivates happy employees, which

“We’re like a big family here,” says

in turn creates happy clients.

“Mr. Baum is very personable and genuinely cares about his workers,” she says. “I’ve never been scared or hesitant to walk into his office and talk to him whenever something needs to be discussed.”

Janet Nieradka, who serves as Gerald’s assistant, echoed Renee’s sentiments. She says he has created a happy, enjoyable, and conducive working environment. “He treats his staff like we’re part of his family,” she says. “And what a family we

Katie Kong, who serves as director of

are! His honesty and integrity are

new business and has been employed

big reasons why I have been here

at Baum Financial Services since

for seven wonderful years.”

2004. “I am Jamaican, so naturally

Gerald offers equally glowing

I have a laid-back attitude. I think

praise toward his talented and

I help instill calmness in others.

dedicated team. “My employees are

Overall, we have a happy, fun office,

talented and carry out their roles and

and I think that type of environment

responsibilities beautifully,” he says.

makes clients feel relaxed and

“Their depth of expertise frees

“My employees are talented and carry out their roles and responsibilities beautifully. Their depth of expertise frees me up to meet directly with clients and concentrate on financial planning.

I have an extraordinary crew, and each and every employee plays a vital role in the success of this company.”

“INVESTED” IN MUSIC & ANIMALS One would assume music and financial

After achieving his primary professional

Paso Fino horses, which began

planning are diametrically opposite

musical goals, Gerald returned

another love affair with Paso Fino

disciplines. After all, one requires

to Florida in 1980 and became

horses. His farm is named after

creativity and artistic ability, while the

immersed in the financial services

Caminante, his first Paso Fino

other entails logic and mathematics.

industry. “It wouldn’t have made a

horse that beat 27 horses from

difference what career I chose because

all over the world to become a

I’ve always been fiercely competitive

national champion.

This is not necessarily true, according to Gerald.

“Whether you are a musician or

and a very goal-oriented person.

Whenever Gerald and his wife

financial planner, you learn and become

My goal at that time was to learn the

travel, his brother in New Port Richey

good at your craft through commitment,

insurance and investment world and

stays at his house and looks after his

passion, practice, and discipline.”

open my own practice.”

animals. “My animals are a big part of

Gerald speaks from experience.

After a successful career with

His success as a financial planner

Prudential, Gerald opened his first

their peculiar luminance. The moment I

parallels a lifelong interest in music as

individual financial services firm in

arrive home from work and drive into

a teacher and performer. He discovered

1986 and never looked back.

the garage, I know that before I get

Despite his career change, Gerald

out of the car the door to my house

his love for music at 5. “My father was

my life. I love each animal equally for

a musician and gave his clarinet to

vowed after leaving Yale that he

will open just barely and three anxious

my older brother. Fortuitously, my

would never give up music. He kept

white bears will be peering through

brother hated it, so it was not long

that promise. Inside his home is

and wiggling with excitement below

before it became mine. It became

a recording studio complete with a

the smiling face of my beautiful wife.”

the love of my life and I practiced

mixing board, multiple synthesizers,

every single day.”

sound processors, MIDI instruments,

He continued developing his

and professional musical software

musical talent throughout his childhood

systems. “I produce professional CDs

and teenage years and ultimately

and give them away. I also work

received a full scholarship to attend

with a professional sound engineer

Yale University. After receiving his

every Saturday so I can stay abreast

master’s degree in 1972, he qualified

of the wonderful but complex world

to continue another year and earned

of digital audio and MIDI recording.”

his pre-doctoral Master of Musical

Gerald is also an avid

Arts degree. Gerald taught at Yale

animal lover. His 40-acre home

from 1973 through 1980. At age

in Brooksville is home to 24

28, he became principal clarinetist

peacocks, three Samoyed dogs,

with the New Haven Symphony

two cats, two Amazon parrots,

Orchestra in Connecticut, which

and two macaws. When he first

was under the leadership of famous

moved to Brooksville, he noticed

conductor Eric Kunzel.

a sign that read “Welcome,

“Performing as principal clarinetist

Paso Finos.” He initially thought

in the New Haven Symphony Orchestra,

it was a social club where he

as well as being a featured soloist

could meet some new friends in

with them, was the pinnacle of my

Brooksville. Two hours later, he left

musical career.”

with a borrowed trailer and two

Baum Financial Services, Inc. is a firm dedicated to providing retirement solutions for those in or nearing retirement. Our customized programs are designed to protect and conserve your assets, while providing a consistent level of income, regardless of market conditions.

For many Americans facing retirement, the phrase “if you don’t know where you are going, then any road will get you there” is all too true. As your financial leader, we help you determine where you want to go and the best alternatives for getting there. We take pride in our unprecedented level of personalized client services and our expertise in finding the right solution for your individual concerns.

Located in Spring Hill and Fruitland Park, Florida, we are able to reach folks throughout Florida. Our monthly dinner seminars detail clear and easyto-understand concepts concerning retirement issues and financial solutions, including the unique MAP Program for retirement income security.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

SPRING HILL: 213 Della Court Phone: 352.686.4925 THE VILLAGES: The Coggins House at Lake Sumter Landing 940 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 100 Phone: 352.205.7966 TOLL FREE: 800.514.7045 www.BaumFinancialServices.com

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banking for

YOUR LIFE

A home we can grow into!

A little place to call our own!

When it comes to buying a home, knowledge is power.

That’s why our loan officers make sure you know your options. We listen to your questions, and work quickly to get the answers—and approval—you need. Call Janet or Jeanne today. We’re ready to help.

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“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with 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

GET A LEG UP ON VEIN PROBLEMS

and all of your other surgical needs!

TOTAL VASCULAR CARE NOW IN THE VILLAGES! Spending all day to see your doctor is a thing of the past, now that Surgical Specialists of Ocala and The Vein Center of North Florida have opened an office in The Villages!

Located at The Oaks at 138th, Dr. Ravi Chandra and Dr. Steven Tieche can meet all of your surgical and vein treatment needs. They offer:

Ravi Chandra, MD Steve Tieche, MD

S General •

urgical pecialists of Ocala

• Doppler Ultrasound • The Venefit® procedure • Sclerotherapy Vascular • Thoracic • Laparoscopic • Laparoscopic Surgery Surgery • Vascular and Endovascular Surgery • Treatment of Spider Veins • General and Thoracic Surgery • Phlebectomies

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urgical pecialists of Ocala

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THE VILLAGES: 8550 NE 138th Lane, Bldg. 400 // 352.237.1820 OCALA: 1920 SW 20th Place, Bldg. 100 // 352.237.1212

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

SOUTH LAKE

SMALL TOWNS OF SOUTH LAKE: MASCOTTE GROVELAND MINNEOLA MONTVERDE STORY: GARY MCKECHNIE PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ AND MATTHEW GAULIN

Look beyond South Lake’s largest city, Clermont, and you’ll find small towns where a slower pace and friendly neighbors are the norm.

T

here aren’t many places in Florida where you’ll see rolling hills, but they are abundant in South Lake County.

And what else will you find? Explore towns like Mascotte, Montverde, Minneola, and Groveland, and you will discover a waterfront tiki bar, family-owned home-style restaurants, U-pick farms, and a squadron of aviators in hang gliders soaring far above an expansive vista of freshwater lakes.

Linked by two lane roads and open fields, maybe the strongest connection among them all is a slower pace that stands in contrast with the din of nearby development. Visit these places and you’ll recall a sense of Old Florida.

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Lake Harris FL IDA OR

27

E PIK RN TU

19

Little Lake Harris

33

LAKE APOPKA RESTORATION AREA

MONTVERDE

MINNEOLA

MASCOTTE

THE FRIENDLY CITY

HISTORIC SMALL TOWN LIVING

DELIVERING EXCELLENCE

19

FLO

RID

AT

UR

Lake Apopka

NP

IKE

27 50

Lake Minneola

50 Lake Minnehaha

GROVELAND

THE CITY WITH A FUTURE

Lake Louisa

27

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March 20 14

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

MASCOTTE

THE FRIENDLY CITY VITAL STATS CITY INCORPORATED: 1925 CURRENT POPULATION: 5,188 SIZE: 2.8 square miles DISTINCTION: The town was named for a small ship that hauled tobacco from Cuba during the Spanish American War. The S.S. Mascotte appears on the seal of the City of Tampa.

CITY OFFICIALS MAYOR: Tony Rosado CITY MANAGER: Jim Gleason POLICE CHIEF: Rolando Banasco FIRE CHIEF: Randy Brasher

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Mascotte’s first physician was Dr. Herman Watson, who later founded Lakeland’s Watson Clinic in 1941.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WATSONCLINIC.COM

Before the railroad arrived in 1887, letters to Mascotte were carried from Okahumpka by horseback.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES®

Because only one main road rolls through Mascotte, and that road happens to be coast-to-coast State Road 50, it seems a given that congestion and noise and overdevelopment would come with it.

On the contrary, Mascotte is just beyond the reach of Orlando’s gravitational pull, so when you come to town it appears you’re rolling back in time. One enduring part of this rural time capsule is the circa 1964 Rainbow Restaurant, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. Locals still favor it above encroaching chain restaurants, most drawn by all-you-can-eat buffets, homemade donuts, and unusually courteous service.

A short drive west, the Jot-Em-Down Store is another retro treasure — the kind of place Mike and Frank of “American Pickers” would visit to strike a bargain. A can’t-miss profile created by service station signs and road art memorabilia stops traffic on S.R. 50, while the shops themselves are jampacked with curious curios including Beatles memorabilia, Disneyana, home accents pieces, yard art, and virtually everything else you can imagine (and many other things you can’t).

A block or two south of 50, the quiet setting of Sunset Lake Park is a mirror image of Myers Lake from “The Andy Griffith Show.” And if this scene rekindles a desire to attend a hoedown, you’ll find dresses, petticoats, pettipants, shirts, blouses, shoes, string ties, neckerchiefs, and everything else you need at Virginia’s Square Dance Apparel.

Now that you’ve visited Mascotte, promenade east to…

Built in 1904, Mascotte’s oldest church is the Mascotte Methodist Church at West Myers Boulevard and North Bay Lake Avenue.

VITAL STATS CITY INCORPORATED: 1922 CURRENT POPULATION: 9,181 SIZE: 19.67 square miles DISTINCTION: Jeff Demps, Olympic silver medalist and Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back, is from Groveland.

CITY OFFICIALS MAYOR: Tim Loucks VICE-MAYOR: James Smith POLICE CHIEF: M. Smith Tennyson FIRE CHIEF: Willie Morgan

Florida’s fastest-growing town isn’t Miami. It is not Orlando, Tampa or Jacksonville, either.

Although Groveland’s population rocketed 189 percent between 2000 and 2010, you’d be hard-pressed to consider the town overcrowded or hectic. The old railroad depot sits in a vacant field as it waits for trains that will never arrive, and the one-story city hall would fit comfortably inside a Dollar General store.

Branching off 50 is State Road 33. Take it south and down the road to the Red Wing Restaurant, a local favorite that looks like an old hunting lodge. Since 1948, generations of diners have settled down for hand-cut steaks, homemade hamburgers, the “Home Wrecker” half-pound hot dog, fresh fish, weekly specials like Monday’s all-you-can-eat crab legs and Wednesday’s all-youcan-eat fried quail, and an orchard’s worth of fresh fruit cobblers: apple cinnamon, blueberry, cherry, strawberry, and peach. If you would prefer to B.Y.O.C (Build Your Own Cobbler), head to Lake Catherine Blueberries and try your hand at their U-pick field.

You may need a side dish of adrenaline to help work off your Former Confederate Cavalry Lieutenant Daniel Sloan homesteaded land that became part of Groveland.

For years, the J. Ray Arnold Lumber Company was the biggest sawmill in the Southeast. It burned down in 1925, was rebuilt in 1926, and closed for good in 1932.

The Groveland Historical Museum is open two hours a week: Saturdays from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (Other times by appointment.)

meal, so keep heading south on 33 until you spot a dirt road leading to Quest Air Hang Gliding. On a tandem trip to 3,000 feet, the instructor may let you maneuver the aircraft. Seize this opportunity to steer a course toward the Citrus Tower and then bank to the east to spy Orlando 30 miles away. Navigating a hang glider on invisible air currents is like riding a motorcycle in the sky.

More down to earth is one of Groveland’s largest companies, Cherry Lake Tree Farms, a wholesale operation where shrubs, palms, crape myrtles, bald cypress, elms, Ligustrums, red maples, magnolias, pines, evergreens, and oaks are planted, nurtured, and grow on 1,000 acres of rolling hills (and on another 800 acres across the state). Another picturesque focal point is Lake David.

Stretched out like a trampoline, it flows from downtown well south into a residential neighborhood with Lake Avenue offering a brief scenic drive. Along the way, Lake David Park offers teens an outlet with a basketball court, volleyball court, and adjacent park for skateboards and BMX bikes.

Groveland was originally called Taylorville. The name was changed in 1912.

Groveland’s first AfricanAmerican Mayor, James Smith, was elected in November 2004.

In 1910, the 20,000 acres of Groveland Farms was divided into smaller tracts and sold primarily to Swedish-Americans from Illinois.

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SOURCE: “BRIEF HISTORY OF GROVELAND” BY CYLETA LEE AUSTIN, HISTORIAN EMERITUS.

GROVELAND CITY WITH A FUTURE

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

MINNEOLA DELIVERING EXCELLENCE

It may not be Bora Bora — heck, it is not even Mount Dora Dora — but thanks to a South Pacific theme and a wonderful location, the Tiki Bar & Grill at Lake Minneola Inn is one of the most popular watering holes in South Lake County.

Bordered between majestic oaks and sprawling Lake Minneola, the Tiki Bar & Grill is one of those places you have to know about to discover. When you arrive and settle in, you will find a crosssection of patrons — bikers, seniors, college students, and couples — sitting at the bar or at tables beneath umbrellas. And each

evening when the sun goes down and the tiki torches light up, it’s possible even folks living in Tahiti would be impressed.

In Minneola, the outdoors are enchanting and where most people want to be. To accommodate those desires, more than 30 miles of continuous walking, running, skating, and biking trails have been created with the merging of the South Lake Trail, the Lake Minneola Scenic Trail, and the West Orange Trail. The trailhead, located on the east side of U.S. Highway 27, offers ball fields, a basketball court, a playground, and picnic areas, and it’s where you can embark on a tour that, with enough stamina, will take you to Clermont, Oakland, Winter Garden, Ocoee, and Apopka, providing views of hills, lakes, and wonderful vistas along the way.

VITAL STATS CITY INCORPORATED: 1926 CURRENT POPULATION: 9,733 SIZE: 10.71 square miles DISTINCTION: The Minneola tangelo is named after the city.

CITY OFFICIALS MAYOR: Pat Kelly VICE-MAYOR: Pam Serviss FIRE CHIEF: Jan Otero

Three-time supercross and five-time motocross champion Ryan Villopoto lives in Minneola.

In 2009, voters considered bringing pari-mutuel betting to Minneola. The proposal was rejected.

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The Minneola Trail is atop a sand ridge, giving this one of the highest elevations of any Florida rail-trail: 98 feet.

Minneola is derived from the Indian term for “many waters.”

MONTVERDE

HISTORIC SMALL TOWN LIVING It was settled in 1865, incorporated 60 years later, but it doesn’t seem as if Montverde has changed much in the decades since. Bicyclists ride along the trail beside County Road 455; students and instructors stroll across the campus of Montverde Academy; locals are hanging out at Green Mountain Pizza; and the overall feeling is that of a rural oasis.

Montverde’s simplicity and charm is evident at the civic complex, which includes the town hall, the Franklin Pearce Jr. auditorium, a library, the fire department, and a post office. Surrounded by picnic pavilions, basketball courts, and an oak-shaded park where movies are shown and festivals are held, the scene brings to mind images of Harper Lee’s fictional town of Maycomb.

That feeling is enhanced with the presence of Montverde Academy (established in 1912). Opened in a two-room wooden building, the academy today educates nearly 1,000 students, including more than 300 boarding students from 13 states across America and 48 countries. It even has an equestrian center opposite the town hall and adjacent to the town’s picture-perfect Methodist Church, which would make an ideal backdrop in a movie.

From here, head west to the end of Porter Avenue and you will reach Lake Florence Park, a safe place for kids to play and for adults to watch the sun set over the water and hills.

The end of another gentle day in Montverde.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FINDAGRAVE.COM

As evidenced by pottery, beads, and arrowheads found in the area, the first residents were Native Americans. Coming in second were settlers that arrived in 1865 and named the place West Lake Apopka.

Named a “Great Floridian” by the state in 2000, Ruben Wyatt Harper was a pioneer citrus grower and community leader.

The historic Harper House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The name “Monte Verde” (Spanish for “green mountain”) was suggested by an early settler who was impressed by the rolling green hills.

The Tavares and Gulf Railroad rolled through town from 1887 to 1969.

VITAL STATS CITY INCORPORATED: 1925 CURRENT POPULATION: 1,498 SIZE: 1.8 square miles DISTINCTION: Montverde was the original manufacturing plant of the Snapper Mower, developed here by brothers Alex and Neal Smith.

CITY OFFICIALS MAYOR: Troy Bennett FIRE CHIEF: Noel Fetters

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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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

On the

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

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On the scene // the to-do list

MARCH 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

CONTACT: GuideDogsWalkathon. org or call 1-800-944-3647.

MARCH 13

WINE-A-FARE Enjoy an evening fil ed with art, wine tasting, heavy hors d’oeuvres, friends, and fun at the Lake Eustis Museum of Art. A silent auction and fine art sale are also planned. Cost: $30 before the event; $35 at the door. CONTACT: 352.483.2900 or lakeeustisartmuseum.org

MARCH 8–9

BBQ, BLUES & BREW Come sample the area’s best backyard barbecue and enjoy electrifying blues music in Town Square along with The Florida Brewing Company’s lineup of delicious craft beers. Starting at 5p.m. in downtown Leesburg, this event is open to the public with admission of $10 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under.

MARCH 15 3RD ANNUAL WE BIKE FOR KIDS Presented by Downtown Leesburg Business Association.

A charity bicycle ride benefiting two CONTACT: 352.365.0053 local organizations, Project Legacy and the Sumter County Youth Center, leaves from the Seabreeze Recreation Center in The Vil ages beginning at MARCH 22 8:30a.m. Bicyclists may choose to SECOND ANNUAL PET CONNECT ride 10, 32, or 62 miles. Hosted by CARNIVAL The Vil ages Bicycle Club, the event Come to South Lake Animal League’s wil also include a light breakfast, Second Annual Pet Connect Carnival T-shirt, goody bag, and free raffle from 10a.m. to 2p.m. at Petco on ticket for more prizes. Registration is State Road 50 in Clermont. The $35 until March 1 and $40 the day celebration wil include family-friendly of the event. entertainment throughout the day, CONTACT: webikeforkids.com. including a Rescues and Runways Fashion Show, pet-related activities

by Doggie Fun Zone, a doggie kissing booth, kid-friendly activities, food MARCH 15 vendors, and more.

SOUTHEASTERN GUIDE DOGS CONTACT: 352.429.6334 WALKATHON You’re in for a tail-wagging treat at this fundraising event to benefit the Southeastern MARCH 22–23 Guide Dogs, which matches CLASSIC RACEBOAT REGATTA visually impaired individuals with See vintage and classic race boats impeccably trained guide dogs. from the early 1900s through the All well-behaved dogs and their 1980s at Wooton Park in Tavares. owners are invited to participate Several types of classic race boats wil in the 3K walk. Event festivities perform exhibition flybys in a race-like begin at 9:30a.m. at the Polo setting on a one-and-a-half-mile oval Club in The Villages. Fundraising course. Heats take place every 30 levels begin at $100 and teams minutes with boats ranging in size are encouraged.

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LEESBURG ART FESTIVAL

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For the 37th year in a row, people will flock to Main Street to experience the Leesburg Art Festival. More than 100 artists will be on hand with many giving live art demonstrations and providing interactive art experiences. Enjoy live entertainment on the Town Square Stage, including Sunday afternoon’s “Jazz on the Square,” festive food, student art exhibits, and the Leesburg Art Association’s Spring Show at the Leesburg Center for the Arts. The Saturday Morning Market, presented by the Leesburg Partnership, will be open Saturday from 8a.m. to 2p.m. on Sixth Street. Anytime Fitness’ “Walk with the Expert” will provide an opportunity to experience the festival in a completely new way and attendees will also enjoy the classic car show. Both admission and parking are free.

CONTACT: 352.365.0232 OR LEESBURGCENTER4ARTS@EARTHLINK.NET

from small outboard hydroplanes to Grand Prix hydroplanes. Speeds can range from 35 to 125 miles per hour. Meet the boat owners and drivers and see the boats up close with a “pit pass” for $2 per person.

Cost: $3 per person. CONTACT: classicraceboatassoc.com

Boat Show is the largest show of its kind in the USA. More than 250 boats are on display in the water and on land at Wooton Park from 9a.m. to 5p.m. Cost: $5.

CONTACT: acbs-sunnyland.org

APRIL 3 MARCH 28

SUNNYLAND ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT SHOW The Sunnyland Antique & Classic

SPRING FISH FRY Enjoy an all-you-can-eat, Southernstyle fish fry under the shady oaks of Mote-Morris House in beautiful downtown Leesburg. Tickets may

be purchased online at the Leesburg Partnership office or on the day of the event. The popular M.T. Pawketts wil provide live music. Time: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $30 for adults; $15 for children 13 and younger.

CONTACT: 352.365.0053 or fishfry. leesburgpartnership.com

MUSIC+THEATRE MARCH 14–30

33 VARIATIONS This gripping Broadway drama follows Beethoven in his final years as he obsesses over creating 33 variations of a simple waltz. Present day, a musicologist dealing with ALS races to finish her research on the famed composer. Plagued by il ness, but gifted with passion, their parallel journeys entwine as they learn to embrace the gift of time. Nominated for numerous Tony Awards, the production is accompanied throughout by a concert pianist performing one of the greatest sets of piano variations ever written.

Tickets: $25 ($21 students/seniors).

Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden.

CONTACT: 407.877.4736 or gardentheatre.org

MARCH 14–APRIL 16

SOUTH PACIFIC On a South Pacific island during World War II, love blooms between a young nurse and a secretive Frenchman who is being courted for a dangerous military mission. Moonlight Players Warehouse Theatre, 732 B W. Montrose St., Clermont.

CONTACT: 352.319.1116

MARCH 21–APRIL 6

SWEENEY TODD This chil ing, suspenseful, heartpounding masterpiece of murderous barbarism and culinary crime tells the infamous tale of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. His thirst for blood soon expands to include his unfortunate customers, while the resourceful pie shop proprietress soon has the people of London lining up in droves with her mysterious new meat pie recipe. Melon Patch Theatre, 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg.

CONTACT: 352.787.3013 or info@ melonpatch.org

MARCH 28–APRIL 20

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS Nick is a single guy from New Jersey who has dinner every Sunday with all four of his Italian grandparents. When he’s offered a dream job in Seattle, his grandparents do their best to give him a reason to stay.

This is an endearing comedy guaranteed to produce laughter and perhaps even a lump in the throat. The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse, 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. CONTACT: 352.383.3133 or icehousetheatre.com

MARCH 21

EUSTIS JAZZ REVUE The Eustis Band Program is hosting its Fourth Annual Jazz Revue, which will feature a three-course meal in addition to an evening of live performances

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EDITOR’S PICK

by the Eustis High Panther and Eustis Middle Mustang jazz ensembles, student soloists, and a special guest artist.

“Art is Music for The Soul” is a new part of this event and will showcase artwork by band members in a silent auction.

All proceeds go directly to the Eustis Band Program, which provides musical equipment and instruments for children in sixth through twelfth grades. From 6:30 to 9p.m. at First Baptist Church of Eustis. Cost: $30.

CONTACT: 352.357.3921

MARCH 29

ASSISTED LIVING, THE MUSICAL Sex, drugs, and gettin’ old! The critically acclaimed traveling musical returns to Mount Dora by popular demand for one show only. The performance will be in the Mount Dora Community Building Theatre, 520 N. Baker St. CONTACT: 352.383.2165

FESTIVALS/FAIRS MARCH 6–9

MICKEY CARROLL CD RELEASE CONCERT Be a part of Grammy-nominated Mickey Carroll’s CD release party and celebrate with a live concert. Meet Mickey and get an autographed CD of his latest collection of cool, bluesy, and laidback tunes. Cost: $20. Location: Mount Dora Community Building, 520 N. Baker St., Mount Dora. Time: 7p.m.

CONTACT: Janet Gamache at 352.217.8390

FLORIDA STORYFEST Hosted by the Florida Storytelling Association on the grounds of the historic Lakeside Inn, this is a premier storytelling event, known nationally for its unique combination of workshops, concerts, youthful voices, and sense of community. People come from across Florida and beyond to explore and savor the art of storytelling. Lifelong friendships have been found and renewed at this once-a-year event.

CONTACT: 800.327.1796

MARCH 15

MARCH 10–15

A NEW YORK STATE OF MIND Tony Monaco & the Fabulous Turnstiles return to the Mount Dora Community Building with a tribute to legendary singer Billy Joel. Cost: $30 for VIP; $20 for general admission; $25 at the door.

CONTACT: 352.383.2165

LAKE COUNTY BOOKFEST The Lake County BookFest aims to present a number of literary and cultural events and activities to encourage the love of reading and connect readers and writers by providing informative and entertaining programs to the community. This year’s theme “Delicious Reads” will include the best of mystery, suspense,

MARCH 8

PIG ON THE POND FESTIVAL MARCH 7–9

The three-day event at Clermont’s Waterfront Park will include a sanctioned barbecue competition, midway carnival, racing pigs, crafters, children’s zone, live entertainment, 5K Rib Run/Walk “For Education,” No Duck Left Behind rubber ducky race, Boy Scouts Pinewood Derby, and much more. Begins at 5p.m., Friday. Admission: $3 daily.

CONTACT: PIGONTHEPOND.ORG

and crime fiction. For a full list of scheduled events, visit the Lake County Library System’s website at mylakelibrary.org.

CONTACT: Judy Buckland at 352.253.6167

MARCH 21–23

WINE & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL This signature event marks the beginning of springtime.

Enjoy fabulous live music and entertainment throughout the entire weekend. Local artists and crafters are invited to display their work. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks, and a variety of tasty seafood specialties will be available for purchase, along with complimentary winery tours and tasting. Cost: $2 donation to benefit The Autism Society of Greater Orlando. CONTACT: lakeridgewinery.com

ART/HISTORY EXHIBITS MARCH 29–30 MARCH 7–APRIL 25

EQUUS AND EARTH EXPRESSIONS Karlene McConnell’s abstract acrylic landscapes set the scene for Mindy Colton’s unique equestrian sculptures. McConnell is a former art teacher and museum curator who creates abstractions of the landscape.

Colton’s horses are unique figurative abstractions with a decidedly expressionistic aesthetic. The opening reception is March 14 from 6 to 8p.m.

Location: Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave. CONTACT: 352.383.0880

SEASCAPES 2-DAY WORKSHOP In this two-day workshop, paint a beautiful seascape oil painting inspired by artists Joyce Ortner, Brenda Harris, and more. Canvas, paint, and mediums will be supplied.

Must bring brushes and other miscellaneous supplies on supply list. Registration is required. Cost: $150; $135 for South Lake Art League members. Class begins at 10a.m.

CONTACT: KATHIE CAMARA AT 352.241.6407

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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 03/06 03/07 03/07 03/08 03/08 03/09 03/08 03/08 03/10 03/11 03/12 03/13 03/14 03/15 03/15 03/15 03/15 03/15 03/15 03/15 03/16 03/16 03/18 03/18 03/18 03/19 03/19 03/19 03/19 03/20 03/21 03/21 03/21 03/22 03/22 03/22 03/23 03/23 03/24 03/24 03/26 03/26 03/28 03/29 003/29 03/29 03/29

ARTIST The Harlem Globetrotters “Flower Power Concert Series” ZZ Ward Hank Williams Jr. He Is Legend “Disney Junior Live” GG King Gino & The Goons Agent Orange Fernando Varela Spiritual Rez Kingdom Of Giants Breathe Carolina Agent Orange The Georgia Satellites JP Soars Kari Jobe Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Bros.

Mississippi Rail Company We The Kings Mississippi Rail Company Paul Simon Kevin Johnson Schoolboy Q We Butter The Bread With Butter HIM Kevin Johnson The Ocean Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band George Thorogood & The Destroyers A Great Big World Asleep At The Wheel The Casket Girls Marc Cohn The Orchestra Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra LeFevre Quartet We Are The In Crowd Kevin Johnson Miley Cyrus Fortunate Youth Lydia The Lovin’ Spoonful Casting Crowns Get The Led Out - The American Led Zeppelin The Lovin’ Spoonfu The Moody Blues

VENUE Amway Center America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center The Social SeaWorld Orlando Adventure Park Backbooth CFE Arena Will’s Pub Will’s Pub Private Function Odin’s Den Backbooth The Social Jessie’s Harley Davidson Of Orlando The Alley House Of Blues Orange Blossom Opry Universal Studios The Beacham Universal Studios Amway Center Disney Cruise Line - Disney Fantasy Firestone Live Backbooth House Of Blues Disney Cruise Line - Disney Fantasy Backbooth The Social Plaza Live Orlando Universal Studios Plaza Live Orlando Will’s Pub Plaza Live Orlando Epcot Center Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre First Church Of God The Social Disney Cruise Line - Disney Fantasy Amway Center The West End The Social America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Calvary Assembly Of God Plaza Live Orlando America Gardens Theatre @ Epcot Center Hard Rock Cafe / Hard Rock Live

ENjoy Food Trucks, Live Entertainment from Stephonie Seekell & a FREE Movie under the stars

SATURDAY MArch 22th • 5:30pm

Leesburg

Events!

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Featuring

AERODYNAMIC HOBBY

JOHN DEYOUNG TALKS ABOUT FLYING HIGH IN THE VILLAGES Page 6

CLUB OF THE MONTH:

REACHING OUT TO HEROES ABROAD AND AT HOME Page 4 Plus

MEET A VILLAGER: THROUGH THE LENS OF BETTY EICH Page 2

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

V

meet a villager STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

BETTY EICH NOTEWORTHY ACHIEVEMENT: After a career as a teacher and school administrator, I retired and reinvented myself as a photographer. I take photos of striking landscapes, nature macros, and scenes of The Villages. People select a photo they love and then I print it on canvas for them. Photography is my passion. More than just recording an event or object, a photograph is an artistic interpretation of that event or object. It conveys my point of view and my feelings.

COLLECTIONS: I collect Smurfs. I have about 430 different Smurf figures and add 10 or 12 new ones each year.

FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Two favorite destinations are Alaska and Turkey.

Alaska’s wildlife and scenery cannot be equaled. Turkey’s people — warm, engaging, and eager to share their culture — made the trip there unforgettable.

SOMETHING ABOUT YOU NOBODY KNOWS: I grew up on a farm north of Milwaukee and was active in the 4-H Club. One year I took my yearling Holstein cow to the state fair where she won the ribbon as the best yearling in the state.

CHARITABLE INVOLVEMENT: I work at the Shared Harvest Garden, where we raise vegetables for food pantries and mealson-wheels programs. I also write and lead women’s retreats for my church, Amazing Grace of Oxford.

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Bonefish Grill CVS

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Lange Eyecare

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we know making it easy to find flooring you'll love.

The Floor Shoppe

Family owned & community trusted since 1979

352.748.4811

Wildwood Oaks Business Center 9815 N US Hwy 301, Wildwood

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-2pm

thefloorshoppe.com

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CLUB OF THE MONTH STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

ARMED WITH LOVE

OPERATION SHOEBOX SUPPORTS THE NEEDS OF TROOPS SERVING ABROAD AND RETURNING HOME.

They sacrifice their time, their families and in some cases, their lives. They suffer through daily assaults of missiles, bullets, and grenades. And the emotional and physical wounds they bear sometimes never heal.

No wonder many people are so enthusiastic about supporting American soldiers.

That’s precisely what numerous Villages residents do as volunteers of Operation Shoebox.

Each Monday, they gather at Lake Miona Recreation Center and spend five hours in an assembly line crocheting hats, writing letters, and stuffing bags with food, games, and hygiene products. The care packages are then shipped to troops in Afghanistan, as well as those stationed at military bases overseas.

“Everyone who is part of this organization looks forward to Monday,” says Sandy DeChristofaro, who serves as director and vice-president of Operation Shoebox. “We work together so well because this is such a wonderful cause. It is a tiring yet rewarding day for us all.”

Mary Harper, a resident of Belleview, started Operation Shoebox in 2003 when her four sons, daughter, and son-in-law were all deployed

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to Iraq. In an effort to ease her anxiety and boost troop morale, she began spending countless hours in her living room preparing basic care packages for men and women stationed around the world.

Soon, her project blossomed into a nonprofit organization.

Operation Shoebox received an influx of manpower when Villages residents launched a chapter in 2004 to assist Mary with her good deeds.

Today, between 400 and 600 volunteers show up each Monday to package items such as shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental wash, coffee, tea, cookies, chips, cards, and letters of encouragement.

Each care package also contains a crocheted hat with the inscription, “May this angel watch over you.”

To say the packages are appreciated by troops would be an understatement.

“Throughout the years, recipients have come here to personally thank us,” Sandy says. “We give them a standing ovation. And the walls in the Belleview office are covered with thank-you letters from troops, as well as senators and representatives.

We can no longer hang them because we ran out of wall space.”

In November 2013, Operation Shoebox reached a milestone when volunteers officially shipped the onemillionth package overseas.

Weeks later, the lucky recipient sent a picture of himself holding a sign that read, “I received the millionth package!”

While individuals and other organizations donate small items, Operation Shoebox does accrue hefty postage expenses. In 2013, the organization spent $268,000 to mail the care packages overseas. Numerous fundraisers are held throughout the year to help offset the costs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT OPERATIONSHOEBOX.COM

Belleview Veterinary Hospital Now offering

Regenerative Stem Cell Therapy Program Regenerative cells can be used to help treat orthopedic injuries, degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, allergies, incontinence, and non-healing wounds.

Regenerative cells have been shown to form new tissue such as bone, blood vessels, cartilage, nerves, skin, muscle, and tendons.

Call today for your consultation

Your “Other Family” Doctor Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver

352.347.3900 10725 S.E. 36th Ave.

24/7

EMERGENCY SERVICE

Walk-ins welcome or call for an appointment Mon.-Sat.

www.BelleviewVeterinaryHospital.com

“

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

Crematory Director

“

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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FLYING HIGH STORY AND PHOTOS: ELLEN CORA

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A lifelong love of aviation took The Villages resident John DeYoung from smallplane cockpits to the handheld radio controls of his large model airplane collection.

In Michigan, he had his pilot’s license and flew a Cessna 172, a Piper Cherokee, and a Piper Saratoga, all owned by a Michigan flying club to which he belonged.

He never got his instrument rating, flying only under visual flight rules (FVR).

Nevertheless, one year after paying his small plane club dues in advance, and not flying at all, John realized the challenge of competing with radio control model aircrafts was what he really preferred to do.

Flying radio control airplanes is a popular hobby for more than 200 folks in

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The Villages and surrounding areas. Some RC flyers say they experience the same aeronautical rush and feeling of independence most full-size plane pilots do. Members of the Villages E-Flyers Club must live in The Villages and belong to the 150,000 member Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). They often scurry in early fog to get planes in the air before the wind picks up. To protect horses and manicured lawns at the Villages Polo Fields, only lightweight electric aircraft are permitted.

“Once, John participated in a halftime flying show between polo matches,” says Anne, John’s wife. “I enjoyed that afternoon very much.”

John belongs to the Southern Eagle Squadron, a smaller club with a field on

Rolling Acres Road, where model planes of various sizes and powers are flown. He also frequently competes at his favorite haunt, the Ocala Model Flyer Club in Belleview, and various meets around the country. Group practices take place, weather permitting, at the Ocala Model Flyer Club’s Belleview airstrip several mornings each week. International RC flying champions from all over the world compete in Florida because the usually mild climate is conducive to flying.

John is used to competition; he started the Bay City Flyers Club in Michigan, which holds aerobatic competitions.

However, he never expected to receive a first place award at the International Miniature Aircraft Club’s 17th Annual Spring Classic, which took

place in April in Land O’ Lakes. “I was very surprised and pleased,” John says.

While these hobbyists enjoy free-form flying and camaraderie shared by fellow enthusiasts, there is much more to this pastime.

The model aircraft hobby has come a long way since its inception more than 60 years ago. The aircrafts have single or twin propellers, a rudder, and elevator; some have ailerons, flaps, and spoilers. Moving the planes through grueling competitive maneuvers with complex controls is not child’s play.

Club flowcharts diagram patterns of required maneuvers competitors must attempt. “Each maneuver is quite easy when done independently,” John explains, “but when you have

2,000

model aviation competitions are held in the U.S. each year.

2,500

model airplane clubs are sanctioned in the U.S.

1914

year the oldest model airplane in existence was built.

9,000

artifacts are on display at the National Model Aviation Museum in Muncie, Ind. Source: www.modelaircraft.org/aboutama/whatisama.aspx

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to do 10 of these patterns in a row in a confined airspace — like within a virtual box or window — you must guide your plane out of one maneuver and right into the next one. It’s more difficult than you think because you have to be in the right place in the sky, ready for the next maneuver in the prescribed sequence.”

Anyone who visits the DeYoungs home in the Village of McClenny will likely tour their huge, two-story garage where John stores his toys.

Hiding in plain sight are fine German-built automobiles, golf carts, a shiny black-andchrome ‘big twin’ Yamaha motorcycle, and a stylish 1923 Ford T-bucket roadster. John’s joy, however, is his exceptional collection of large, radio control aircraft.

His largest is a 43 percent scale model blue and yellow Extra 330SC. It is about a nine feet long with a 10-foot wingspan. It came already painted and assembled, except for the four-cylinder 200cc engine and electrical system, which John installed. “It’s made of fiberglass and carbon fiber,” John says, “which is fiberglass processed under high heat to become super strong and durable, while retaining its light weight.”

Nearby sits a bright yellow Ultimate 10-300 ultralight balsawood biplane with a shiny film covering that John assembled from a kit. Its double wings span eight feet, with a two-cylinder 150cc engine. “My wife sometimes helps me with the tedious process of covering the wood with plastic film,” he says. His slightly smaller red, white, and blue Extra 260 plane, weighing only 28 pounds, was much more work. It came as a box of wooden sticks. With a few

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WHERE TO FIND FLYERS? The Villages E-Flyers meets from 7:30 to 10:30a.m. (weather permitting) Mondays through Fridays at The Villages Polo Club.

For more information, call Walter Steckenreiter at 352.753.5291, Barry Killick at 352.259.4271, or Harry McClary at 352.753.6362.

Southern Eagle Squadron (AMA Charter Club #1707) meets at 7p.m. every third Thursday of the month at the Leesburg Community Center, 109 E. Dixie Ave. For more information, visit southerneaglesquadron.com.

twists of a screwdriver, John removed the cockpit with its “pilot” inside to reveal its symmetrical inner balsawood frame and foam core.

John’s planes are scale models of actual aerobatic airplanes used today. His model fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters range in price from about $350 to $7,000. A mechanical lift takes John and his planes to a second-story storage area above his garage.

John and Anne also have fun buzzing a small square fourrotor Quad Copter SQ1 around the property. “The precise

control of this toy, and its instant takeoffs and landings, is impressive,” says John. “It sells ready-to-fly for about $100.”

Unfortunately, model planes do crash on occasion.

According to John, every plane seems to have a number when its flying time is over — and as careful as he is with maintenance, he never knows when its number will be up.

On a more positive note, John has logged upward of 2,000 flights on some models, which are still going strong.

Ocala Model Flyer Club meets at 10a.m. on the first Saturday of each month at their field located at 1020 S.E. 110th St., Ocala. For more information, visit ocalaflyingmodelclub.com.

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book club STORY: KATHY PORTER

THE SCENT OF SCANDAL

GREED, BETRAYAL, AND THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL ORCHID

In January, the Bookworm Book Club was honored to host Craig Pittman, award-winning journalist and author of The Scent of Scandal.

Smuggled out of Peru in 2002, a never-before-seen orchid is brought to the Orchid Identification Center at the prestigious Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota. Selby Gardens enters the race to be the first to classify and name the orchid and to publish its findings.

Thus begins a saga that involves 44 extraordinary characters that include smugglers, adventurers, scientists, and federal investigators. Those enthralled by this beautiful orchid would soon become embroiled in a scandal of international proportions, be subjected to search warrants, and have criminal charges filed against them.

The rainforests in Peru were quickly stripped of the Phragmipedium kovachii, whose purple flower was as big as a man’s hand. Avid orchid collectors lusted after the gorgeous plant, which could not be legally imported. It became a hot commodity on the black market with prices fetching as much as $10,000.

With a great sense of humor, Pittman led 76 book club members through his journey to research and write this book.

Pittman had covered the story for the St. Petersburg Times (now the Tampa Bay Times) and thought this would make a wonderful book, especially since he had all the facts, or so he thought.

THE NEXT MEETING

The Bookworm Book Club will meet March 18 to discuss My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor. Club chair Kathy Porter can be contacted by phone at 352.259.8196 or email at kathymporter@comcast.net.

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True crime and gardening in one book? This is it. Truth is stranger than fiction! This is a great read about orchids and their growers, importers, and smugglers.”

—Beth Hicks Santiago

The more he delved into the story and interviewed the principals, the more . he realized this was only the tip of the tale. Thus began months of research. He interviewed nearly all the characters involved, many of whom were more than willing to talk to him. Law enforcement officials, however, were the exception. They were less than forthcoming and even delayed giving Pittman the files he requested under the Freedom of Information Act. .Pittman also shed light on the international treaties that govern trade in endangered species, and he delighted us with tales of his escapades as he shadowed custom officials at the Miami International Airport. .Just as interesting was Pittman’s update about the characters and what they are doing now. The scandal tarnished the reputation of Selby Gardens and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, which nearly bankrupted the facility. .Members remarked that the book read more like a mystery thriller. In fact, it is probably the only book classified as True Crime/Gardening. The story confirmed that some people will go to extreme lengths to discover a rare flower and achieve the fame and money that goes with it.

About the Author Craig Pittman is a native Floridian. Born in Pensacola, he graduated from Troy State University in Alabama. Since 1998, he has covered environmental issues for Florida’s largest newspaper, the Tampa Bay Times. He has been the four-time recipient of the Waldo Proffitt Award for Distinguished Environmental Journalism in Florida, and he has twice won the top investigative reporting award from the Society of Environmental Journalists. The Scent of Scandal: Greed, Betrayal, and the World’s Most Beautiful Orchid is his third book, and it won the silver medal for non-fiction from the Florida Book Awards. He lives in St. Petersburg with his wife and two children.

Gail Feind Pennecamp

Craig Pittman’s investigative prowess and his natural ability to tell a story is simply the best. He writes with humor and keen insight, always keeping the reader’s attention. I will read all Craig Pittman’s books and check out the Tampa Bay Times.

Kathie Caron Winifred

As a gardener, I enjoyed the subject and the intrigue, but I found the reading a bit difficult with over 40 characters to keep in your head. Meeting the author was fun and helped me understand how the story and characters took on a life.

AS OF FEBRUARY 16

1. WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD by: Diana Gabaldon

2. SON

by: Jo Nesbo

3. PRIVATE L.A.

by: James Patterson

4. STILL LIFE WITH BREAD CRUMBS by: Anna Quindlen

5. THE GOLDFINCH by: Donna Tartt

6. THE INVENTION OF WINGS

WHAT CLUB MEMBERS THOUGHT Dishonesty and greed are woven through the story of orchid smuggling in Florida. Pittman’s account provided a renewed appreciation for orchids and a curiosity to visit Selby Botanical Gardens.

HARDCOVER BESTSELLERS

It was a very interesting presentation by Craig Pittman as he explained the process of writing the book. He also has a very engaging personality. If anyone has the opportunity to hear him speak, I would highly recommend they do so. He answered all our questions succinctly and graciously.

by: Sue Monk Kidd

Santo Domingo

8. KILLER

7. THE HUSBAND’S SECRET by: Liane Moriarty

Pam Sherman

The book is an extremely well-written “who done it” that masterfully combines a complex cast of characters with the intrigue of international acclaim, smuggling, and vast amounts of money. A good read for orchid lovers, as well as anyone interested in the environment.

by: Jonathan Kellerman

9. THE MARTIAN by: Andy Weir

Faith I. Andrus Bonita

10. CONCEALED IN DEATH by: J. D. Robb

Judy Linker

Country Club Hills

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this ‘n’ that STORY: FRED HILTON

“BOTTLE,” “STOPPER,” “PIGGY,” “WIENER,” “SOCKS,” ETC. STORY: FRED HILTON

Whatever happened to nicknames? When I was a kid, many local characters in my hometown had colorful nicknames. For example, there were two brothers who enjoyed their booze immensely. They were called “Bottle” and “Stopper.” Another set of brothers in town had healthier drinking habits — “Big Pepsi” and “Little Pepsi.” A lovable, but not very bright, fellow once worked for a coal-delivering business and was forever known as “Coaldust.” There was also a guy named “Hammer” and several people with nicknames that would be so offensive today that I can’t mention them.

In high school and college, my pals were known by names like “Bo,” “Boo,” “Baby Huey,” “Butch,” “Demo,” “Frog,” “Meat,” “Panda,” “Piggy,” “Peanut,” “Pood,” “Prunie,” and “Slick.” Nicknames must be a guy thing because all those folks are fellows except for “Prunie.” But that’s another story.

A true nickname has to be one you are called in normal conversation, not just something people might say behind your back, or use in print. It also can’t be a diminutive of a regular name. That eliminates names like “Billy,” “Donnie,” and “Freddie.”

For these reasons, nicknames of presidents are rare.

Jimmy Carter and Teddy Roosevelt used diminutives, not real nicknames. “Honest Abe” doesn’t qualify because Mary Todd Lincoln never said, “Honest Abe, why don’t we go to the theater tonight?” And Martha Washington certainly never said, “Please pass the mutton, Father of our Country.” Probably the only president who had a true nickname was Dwight D. Eisenhower. We all have to agree that “Ike” is an excellent nickname.

Nicknames in sports are on the demise, too. The New

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York Yankees once had players called “Yogi,” “Moose,” and “Catfish.” Today, they have “A-Rod.” Enough said.

Fewer and fewer people go by nicknames. In The Villages, I can only think of two people that have true nicknames: “Wiener” and “Socks.” Wiener’s family ran a meat business and the name has stuck with him since he was a kid. Let me point out quickly that my friend Wiener is not to be confused with that weirdo ex-Congressman Weiner from New York. I shudder to think what his nickname is.

Socks has this habit of plodding around the neighborhood swimming pool in his swim trucks while wearing — you guessed it — socks. Sometimes, they match.

He claims that sunlight causes an allergic reaction to his feet. Rumors about concealing zombie-fied feet have been pretty much discounted.

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).

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

Above: Board members of the Amazing Race for Charity include (L-R): Tammie Stinson Vinson, Tim Totten, Jill Baker, B.E. Thompson, and Eric English.

SIMPLY AMAZING

Local residents can compete in “The Amazing Race” without leaving Lake County.

STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: TIM TOTTEN

T

im Totten of Eustis has been a die-hard fan of “The Amazing Race” since the show debuted in 2001. He tunes in each new season to watch teams of two race around the world and compete in fun, exciting challenges.

Now, Totten is bringing a scaled-down version of the CBS hit reality show to Lake County.

The inaugural Amazing Race for Charity event will be held in Eustis on April 5, allowing locals to enjoy their own amazing adventure while using teamwork and problem-solving skills to complete challenges en route to the finish line.

Totten says the idea for this event was derived from the Amazing Charity Race held in

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Loveland, Ohio. For the past two years, he has served on the race committee and spent weeks in Ohio learning how organizers plan, prepare, and market the race.

“I was simply blown away,” says Totten, owner of Final Embrace. “That event draws 1,200 participants from 18 states and sells out in four to six hours.

Everybody is smiling the entire day and having a wonderful time. I wanted to bring this event to Lake County because I know everybody will enjoy it.”

Totten was also impressed that the Loveland organizers have raised nearly $500,000 for charity since its inception eight years ago. He hopes to make an equally impressive impact locally. Funds derived from the

Amazing Race for Charity will be distributed to at least nine Lake County charities.

One of the beneficiaries is the LifeStream Behavioral Center Foundation, which will provide numerous volunteers to staff the event.

“Instead of hosting another 5K, we decided to direct our attention on this event because it will allow us to work for other charities instead of competing for money,” says B.E. Thompson, director of development at LifeStream Behavioral Center.

“We will benefit financially as much from this as we would by hosting another 5K race.

Plus, it is exciting to be a part of a new concept that I feel will be a big success.”

ON YOUR MARK, GET SET …

The timed race will send teams of two racing through a five-mile course in Eustis. They will leave the starting line in one-minute intervals and along the way will compete in 20 mental and physical challenges to obtain clues to their next destination. The challenge locations will include schools, public parks, churches, and businesses such as Olivia’s Coffeehouse, Wells Fargo Advisors, and Village Framer & Art Gallery.

Although Totten does not want to reveal the challenges, he said each one will correlate with the specific venue.

For instance, competitors may perform an onstage skit at Bay Street Players. “I’ll say this much. There will be a puzzle challenge, a messy challenge where people get wet or dirty, and plenty of challenges where teams work together to complete them,” Totten says. “The best part about it is we are showcasing businesses, parks, and other neat destinations in Eustis.”

On the evening prior to the event, Totten and his staff are hosting a map release party at the Eustis First Friday Street Festival to reveal the race route and the details of each challenge. Teams who pay the $125 entry fee also receive two race shirts, two bibs, and a postrace meal.

While the race will feature serious athletes, no one has to be in tiptop shape to participate in the event, which typically takes slower competitors two hours to complete. “If you can make it through a day at a theme park, then you can finish this race,” Totten says. “You will not be climbing bales of hay or flipping tire tractors. Our goal is to ensure you have fun. There is no major bending

or anything potentially harmful.”

Those physically unable to compete can still support a good cause by sponsoring a local high school team to race. “Teenagers may not have $125 to compete, but a generous person can sponsor them so they can be part of the race,” Totten says. “It is tax deductible, and you can even indicate which high school team you want to support.”

In the future, he will move the Amazing Race for Charity to different cities throughout Lake County. “This is a golden opportunity for Lake County residents to invest money in one event that reaches a broad spectrum of charities. This race is not just about competing; it’s about promoting the community and working together to build synergy.”

For more information about the event, please call 352.242.8111 or visit amazingraceforcharity.com.

THE FOLLOWING LOCAL CHARITIES WILL BENEFIT FROM THE AMAZING RACE FOR CHARITY: PRESENTING CHARITIES Cornerstone Hospice LifeStream Behavioral Center Foundation Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake and Sumter Counties CONTRIBUTING CHARITIES Ruth House Read to Sydney Converge Teen Center Devereux Kids Sweet Treats for a Cause Safe Climate Coalition

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

HONEYMOONING ON THE HIGH SEAS

Finding the right cruise line for your romantic occasion takes a little research and planning before setting sail.

STORY: DEBBIE SELINSKY

R

omance, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. But few honeymooners would disagree that romping on pristine beaches by day, enjoying a relaxing couple’s massage by sunset, and dancing under the stars on a moonlit deck at night more than fits the bill.

In recent years, cruise lines have upped the romantic ante even more with features such as cozy, private cabanas, complete with hot tubs and chilled drinks; verandahs that give couples a chance for intimate stargazing; and private gourmet picnics

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enjoyed while lounging on real grass lawns on deck.

“Our honeymoon cruise was the most relaxing one we’ve ever taken,”

says Jennifer Baas of Leesburg. She and her husband, Jake, (pictured at left) married last August and spent their honeymoon aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas®. “We’ve taken eight other cruises in the past but this one was special. The ship was newer and the service was excellent.”

For your dream honeymoon to come to fruition, you need to do a little research and planning. For example, most honeymooners prefer to avoid ships with lots of small kids onboard. That eliminates Disney cruises, although they have many adults-only

PHOTO: © SILVERSEA PHOTO: © REGENT SEVEN SEAS

activities and amenities. You also can avoid large numbers of families and kids on cruises by dodging summer and holiday crowds.

If you are a young couple, you might be more comfortable on a ship with younger clientele and more physical activities, such as Royal Caribbean (hello, rock-climbing and zip lining) and Carnival, which boasts the only dedicated comedy clubs at sea. Jennifer says the unique activities and excellent spa services aboard the Oasis of the Seas were the best part of her seven-day honeymoon cruise in the Caribbean. “We especially enjoyed the outdoor theatre’s aqua show on the back of the ship,” she says.

And since the lowest cruise fares are usually found online, another sensible move is to check out websites that keep up with the industry, like www.cruisecritic.com, and sites that sell a variety of discounted cruises, such as www.vacationstogo.com.

Jennifer and Jake booked their cruise online but they were experienced cruisers, having traveled on several other ships in the past. “We were perfectly comfortable booking online

and we knew we wanted to be on the Oasis. We had heard and read a lot about that particular ship,” she says.

However, if you are a novice cruiser and aren’t sure about booking online, call the cruise lines directly or talk to a travel agent, especially one who is a cruise specialist. Ask or check websites to see if they have designations such as Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC), Master Cruise Counselor (MCC), or Elite Cruise Counselor (ECC). These accredited agents have completed an extensive curriculum of cruise sales training and have personally sailed or inspected a variety of cruise ships. They often can match an online price and ensure you earn points in the cruise line’s loyalty program. They are also able to arrange special events that online sites usually cannot.

CRUISING BABY BOOMER STYLE

Well-traveled baby boomers and more mature couples might check out Holland America Line, where ballroom dancing, computer classes, and gourmet cooking lessons are popular activities, or Celebrity Cruises, whose high-tech, spa-centric Solstice Class ships feature AquaClass Suites that give you special access to spa facilities and a health-focused restaurant.

If you are a sailor, you may be especially drawn to the motorized sailing vessels of Windstar Cruises. And if price is no object, check out upscale Regent Seven Seas’ ships, the most inclusive at sea. Your cruise fare includes the

price of shore excursions, spirits and wines, gratuities, and pre- and postcruise hotel stays, leaving you virtually no reason for a lover’s quarrel.

A few cruise lines offer complimentary perks to honeymooners. Don’t be surprised that while on a cruise of romantic Tahiti on the Paul Gauguin you find red rose petals scattered in your bathroom. Celebrity and Holland America offer evening celebrations for all newlyweds aboard the ship, featuring hors d’oeuvres, champagne, and special greetings from ship officers, while Silversea Cruises includes incruise fares, a bottle of top-notch champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, and flowers. Be sure to let the cruise line know you are on your honeymoon.

A honeymoon cruise is generally a great value since meals, accommodations, and most entertainment are part of your fare. But when you’re budgeting, be sure to add in the cost of airfare, beverages, staff gratuities, and funds for spa treatments, shopping, gambling, and exercise classes to arrive at the true cost of your honeymoon cruise.

Trip

TIP

CRUISE SAFETY

If you still remember seeing news footage of the Costa Concordia accident in January 2012, or if you are nervous about cruising in general, rest assured that new industrywide rules and regulations have been put in place.

Under new rules, Cruise Lines International Association, which represents 26 U.S. cruise ship companies, and the European Cruise Council, with 30 cruise ship companies, announced a policy change requiring all lifeboat and safety drills be performed before a ship leaves port. In the past, ships sometimes performed the drills the morning after sailing. For more information on the new measures, go to www.cruising.org.

About the writer

Debbie Selinsky is a freelance writer who has sailed on 111 cruises and visited all seven continents. She writes for, among others, AAA Living, AAA Traveler, The Oregonian, The Winston-Salem Journal, and USA Today Travel Tips.

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On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2013

CELEBRATION TIME

Montverde Academy’s 10th annual Celebrating Education event was an amazing night of excitement and entertainment. The event, held at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, included live performances by Bollywood dancers, savory cuisine, cocktails, a disc jockey, and live and silent auction items such as dream vacations and fabulous prizes for everyone. The Rosen Shingle Creek is the same venue where administrators celebrated the school’s centennial in 2012.

MICHELE AND CURT BUSBY DAVE AND CECILIA HARDAT

PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS

KATHY IRIZARRY AND EUGENE RESTO

TAYLOR AND MICHELE YARKOSKY

DR. AND MRS. JULIO PAEZ

MARYBETH AND JASON BOARDMAN

— Dr. Kasey Kesselring Montverde Academy headmaster

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On the scene // Hi, society!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2014

HIGH ACHIEVERS Individuals and businesses in Sumter County were recognized for their extraordinary achievements at the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce’s “Plaid and Pearls” awards gala. Realtor Connie Mahan was named Business Woman of the Year, and Mike Scott Plumbing was named as the Outstanding Large Business. Miss Daisy’s Flowers and Gifts in Leesburg provided floral arrangements for the event.

BILL CANNON AND SAMANTHA MERRITT

ANNA STANAGE AND CATHI LAMBERT WILLIAM FARMER AND MARLENE O’TOOLE

HELEN LAROCHE AND SONIA WILLIAMS

EMILY ROSE

PHOTOS: RON VANDEVANDER

JANET SPIKES AND CAROL CANE

LISA HUMPHREYS AND MICHELE BROWN

EMILY GRAHAM AND EMILY ROSE

“The Sumter Chamber not only helps build the local businesses but also builds lasting relationships.”

—Sean Williams

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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.

“I truly like Dr. Wu and felt comfortable with him every step of the way. I wouldn’t change doctors for the world. The best thing about Tri-County Podiatry is you don’t have to wait very long for your appointment time. Within 10 minutes, I was in Dr. Wu’s office, and he was chairside with me. He genuinely cares about you as a patient.”

-Frederic Wix

On the scene // Hi, society!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013

A PIGSKIN PARTY

Good times, good food and a, good cause were the reasons people came to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Clermont to raise funds for the South Lake Pop Warner Eagles. Attendees had an opportunity to meet the young football players and listen to live entertainment

by Rainer Berry, as well as the Gregg Warren Band. A percentage of Beef ‘O’ Brady’s food and beverage sales went toward the South Lake Pop Warner Eagles.

CHRISTIN WALKER AND PAULINA PRIETO

JACOB ALBRECHT, CARRIANNE KINNEY, AND MOLLY SOLTIS

JENNIFER HOUGH AND AUSTIN EDMUNDSON

CHARISMA WAHLBERG AND KRISTA THOMPSON

PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS

BRIAN ROEHN AND BOBBY AZCANO

TROY MCDONALD AND KAYLA RICHTER

“‘Style TV’ and country music. What a great night.”

— Tina Morrison

with Phil Stokes (L) and Rainer Berry (R)

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JORDYN RANDOLPH AND RAEGAN RANDOLPH

GET ON THE

BUS SUPPORT LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS

The Educational Foundation of Lake County serves as the connection between our community and public education, evaluating needs and securing resources to enhance the quality of education.

For information on how you can join our efforts please call 352-326-1265 or visit www.edfoundationlake.com

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On the scene // Hi, society!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013

HAVING A ‘GRAPE’ TIME Central Florida residents visited Lakeridge Winery to enjoy the popular Wine and Chocolate Festival. Lakeridge’s award-winning wines and Godiva chocolates were big hits. In addition, the event featured live music, an arts and crafts show, and domestic and imported beer. Proceeds raised from the event benefited the American Heart Association.

PHOTOS: MORGAN ELLIS

JOHN, SHARON, BEN, AND HENRY CARLISLE

FRANCIS KASSELAKIS

KATIE, WILLIAM, AND ARIA SCOTT SHANTAIE AND DAVID FOWLER

JENNIFER, LANSON, LANCE, AND CONNER BRUCE GREG AND DEE MORO

Karen, Avery, and Jim Wilson are having a sweet time

DANNY WILDE

Is Your SPECIALIST…

REALLY A SPECIALIST?

Dr. Tankson is the ONLY board-certified, orthopaedic surgeon fellowship trained in foot and ankle surgery, serving the tri-county area.

As the first surgeon to perform ankle replacement surgery in Lake County, he is also the only surgeon in a three-county area with the experience, skill and training to perform highly-advanced ankle replacement surgery.

Dr. Tankson receives referrals from physicians across the state who want to ensure the best options are available to their patients.

From conservative care for ankle injuries to complex care for foot and ankle trauma; arthroscopic surgery of the foot and ankle to ankle and foot fusion surgery to alleviate pain and instability; from joint replacements of the foot to total ankle replacement, trust the foot and ankle specialist other physicians trust. WHEN EXPERTISE MATTERS. Diagnosis and Treatment (Medical and Surgical) for: • Routine and Complex Fractures of the Foot and Ankle • Advanced Treatment for Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle • Symptomatic Adult Flat Foot • Achilles Tendon Disorders • Bunions, Claw Toes, Hammer Toes • Revision Surgery

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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.

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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

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eats IN THE KITCHEN SALUTÉ FORK ON THE ROAD DINING GUIDE

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EATS // in the kitchen

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LET THEM EAT (WEDDING) CAKE!

Often the centerpiece of every wedding, the wedding cake has been a longstanding tradition that has evolved over the years as styles change.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

W

hile some wedding trends seem to come and go, a few essentials never change. And one of those is the tradition of the wedding cake.

Since ancient times, wedding celebrations have always included a special cake. In Ancient Rome, wedding ceremonies were concluded with the breaking of a wheat or barley cake over the bride’s head; the newly wedded couple would then proceed to eat a few crumbs in a ritual known as confarreatio, or eating together. It was said to be a symbol of good fortune. (I call it a waste of perfectly good cake.)

And while we’ve stopped crumbling baked goods over brides’ heads —opting for a much more civil face smash — the belief still remains that no celebration of a new union is complete without cutting into a beautifully decorated cake. However, what has changed over the years are cake styles.

No chic, contemporary bride would settle for an all-white, multitiered, vanilla wedding cake. Kathi Hall Vincent, the owner and baking brilliance behind Cotillion Southern Café in downtown Wildwood, says in the last year or so, she notices brides are moving away from over-the-top, fondant-spackled spectacles and are choosing more rustic, homemade cakes that remind them of what their grandma used to make.

“Brides come to me and are very specific with their requests,” she says. “They want cakes to look homemade and they want it to taste good.”

The latter is not an issue for “Miz Kathi.” Anyone who has had the good fortune to pay her a visit at Cotillion knows she is just as well known for her delicious desserts as she is known for her

upscale Southern cooking. Every day, her antique sideboard is filled with desserts made fresh by Kathi herself.

Coming from a long line of bakers, Kathi naturally had it in her to bake.

“I remember my grandmother was always reading recipes,” she says. “Even when she couldn’t bake anymore, she would still clip out recipes. She did that until the day she died.”

Kathi started small, baking projects for friends and family as she honed her skills. It eventually grew into a full-blown catering business after she had a neighbor ask her to cater an event at Austin Horse Park in Weirsdale. “They needed food brought in. I did a hummingbird cake and made banana pudding from scratch,” she says. “I also brought food for the staff and it was after that I became a caterer for them.”

As she delved into her newfound business, Kathi never neglected her other interests — collecting antiques and genealogy.

“I’m a ninth generation Floridian, I love making my family’s old

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recipes, and I love gathering and hoarding antique lace, silver, and china. So when my last child was in high school, I decided my life would be for me now, but I couldn’t figure out what to do. I eventually settled on opening Cotillion because it blended my family history, my china, and my love for baking and cooking all together.”

The Cotillion recently celebrated its sixth birthday, but Kathi just began making custom-ordered wedding cakes. “I started getting requests, and whenever I do one for a wedding, I get at least a few orders from people who say, ‘I want the same kind,’” she says.

Lately, Kathi says she has noticed the vintage, country-inspired look is in full swing.

“I just recently catered my son’s wedding and it was definitely more nostalgic. It had that real afterchurch-for-supper feel,” she says. “People are really moving away from anything formal. They want casual with a touch of Southern elegance. Some of the key features of the cakes I’ve been making have been swirl marks I make with the frosting, sticks, vintage brooches, and jewelry.”

On the day I visited Cotillion, Kathi had whipped up four amazing cakes to show me (rather than tell me) what local brides are requesting to have at their nuptials.

Kathi’s most requested cake is the Southern salted caramel fudge cake. Garlanded with thin twigs, twine, and faux blue-hued birds, the rustic-looking cake has a thin layer of frosting that allows the splendidly dark cake to peak through, reminding me of an old, painted wooden fence fading under the harsh Florida sun.

Though simplistic with its all-white decorative rosette design, her pink velvet cake will become a fast favorite, too. My two favorites, however, were the white chocolate raspberry cake, which had a filling of fresh raspberry jam and was decorated with beautiful pink blush and Florida cracker roses and a blue satin ribbon, and the coconut cake, which had a cooked coconut filling and was embellished with antique roses.

Ultimately, Kathi said cake choices always boil down to what couples are looking for to fit their theme. For example, red velvet cakes are hot sellers for Christmas and Valentine’s Day and for those looking for something more homespun, nontraditional cakes like carrot cake and hummingbird cake are requested.

“Some couples come in with an idea and some just entrust me to make something delicious and fabulous,” she says.

Also growing in popularity are pie bars and dessert bars, which can accommodate enough variety to satisfy any wedding guest’s palette.

“I’ve also done a lot of cake buffets, cupcake orders, and groom’s cakes,” she says. “A traditional Southern groom’s cake is chocolate, but then I’ll add other elements like fresh strawberries, chocolate mousse, salted caramel, orange filling, whipped ganache, or peanut butter filling.”

With the success of her budding custom wedding cake venture, Kathi will be opening a bakery separate (but not far) from the Cotillion in the former Hollywood Café building. It will be called Miz Kathi’s Southern Sweetery. “People will be able to come in for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake. I’ll have some traditional baked goods and some unconventional

treats like hand-painted cookies and a new pink champagne cake,” she says. “I’m hoping to be officially open by Easter.”

In the meantime, Kathi continues to bring her passion for delightful desserts to the masses, whether it’s in the comforts of her Wildwood eatery or by request of soon-to-be-wed couples looking to top off their special day with something truly made from the heart.

“I used to make flower arrangements for a while for a friend and the one thing that always bothered me about it was when the flowers would get delivered, I never got to see the person’s reaction. However, when I bake something and deliver it or put it on one of my cake stands in the café, I get to see that person’s reaction, and I love that part about my job.”

A SLICE OF HISTORY:

INTERESTING WEDDING CAKE FACTS

• In medieval England, small spiced buns were stacked as high as possible. If the bride and groom were able to kiss over the tall stack, it foretold a lifetime of prosperity.

• In the county of Yorkshire in England, bride pie was the most important dish at weddings because it was considered vital to the couple’s lasting happiness. It contained a plump hen full of eggs, surrounded by minced meats, fruits, and nuts and embellished with ornate pastry emblems.

Traditionally, a ring was placed in the pie, and the lady who found it would be the next to marry.

• Bride pie eventually developed into bride cake in the 17th century. Fruited cakes, which symbolized fertility and prosperity, gradually became the centerpieces for weddings.

• Bride cake covered with white icing also first appeared sometime in the 17th century. A pure white color was much sought after because it symbolized the bride’s virginal attributes. However, because the sugar to make the white icing was so expensive, a pure white cake became a status symbol.

• It is believed that Queen Victoria’s wedding to Prince Albert in 1840 started the tradition of multitiered wedding cakes we have today. White icing was used to decorate her cake and has been known as “royal icing” ever since. The royal cake measured more than nine feet in circumference.

VERY SUPERSTITIOUS

Here are a few superstitions that have long been connected with wedding cakes.

• Sharing the cake with family and friends increases fertility and prosperity.

• The bride who bakes her own cake is asking for trouble in her marriage.

• A taste of the cake before the wedding means loss of the husband’s love (while a piece of cake kept after the big day ensures his fidelity).

• The newlyweds must cut the first slice together.

• Every guest must eat a small piece to ensure that the happy couple will be blessed with children.

Source: www.gastronomica.org/wedding-cake-a-slice-history

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EATS // saluté A worldly look at wine

ENJOYING WINE: A LIFELONG LEARNING PURSUIT With so many choices, how do you find a wine you like? “Taste, taste, taste,” say the experts.

STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: TONY DESANTIS

Y

ou’ve enjoyed the same wine for years but all of sudden the latest vintage tastes totally different… and you realize it may be time to find a new favorite.

The wine’s flavors may have changed dramatically because something affected the terroir where the grapes were grown; or possibly your taste in wine has evolved and changed. And then, some of us just get bored with a particular wine and want to find something else. Whatever the reason, the pursuit of a new favorite begins again.

The first step when tasting wine is to keep an open mind. For years, especially after seeing the movie “Sideways,” which nearly decimated the market for Merlot because the movie’s main character compared it to swill, I did not drink Merlot — mostly to avoid the chuckles from “serious” wine geeks. However, at a wine tasting I discovered Merlot actually worked better with my palate than more highly tannic wines. Some of my favorite Merlots are just as complex and flavorful as Cabernets and Syrahs.

Learning about wine also involves tasting many different varietals. Remember that your spouse or best friend probably has an entirely different palate and preference for wines than you, and that is okay. Don’t let anyone tell you what you are drinking and enjoying is bad because it’s never been reviewed by Wine Spectator or wine critic Robert Parker. In fact, Parker gave up a law career after his curiosity about wine was sparked when

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he was visiting his future wife in Alsace, France. He may have a favorite wine at home but he objectively reviews a lot of different varietals. He’s even been brave enough to drink and then write positively about a microbrew beer from Delaware fermented with Syrah grapes. A lot of Syrah lovers may call that blasphemous but, nevertheless, Parker didn’t let anyone influence his choice of drinks.

All of the wine shops in our area offer inexpensive wine tastings. For $5 or $10, you get a glass and the opportunity to try many different kinds of wines. Remember, though, tastings aren’t bars with unlimited pours. The one-ounce pours are enough to learn about different varietals and to find wines that suit your taste.

On the other end of the spectrum, trying a classic, high quality, and expensive wine is also a learning experience. Very few of us can or want to spend $100 on a bottle of wine, but an opportunity to taste a classic wine gives you a chance to see how wines stack up to one by which all others are judged. For instance, I’ve heard about Opus One for years but never had a chance to enjoy a glass until I attended a wine connoisseurs’ dinner at Palm Tree Grille & Bar in Mount Dora.

The wine pairing dinners, according to restaurateur Joe Sabatini, are a chance for wine lovers to experience wines they might not otherwise get to try.

“In the last three years since we’ve changed the restaurant’s concept to include a wine theme, it’s been like

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going to college,” says Sabatini.

His wine connoisseur dinners are indeed learning experiences. Usually a winemaker or winery representative is on hand to talk about the wines between courses. J. France Posener from Opus One shared stories about the winery’s amazing history that began as a partnership between California’s Robert Mondavi and France’s Baron Philippe de Rothschild.

“The idea had never been done before — a Frenchman and an American working together to create a wine,” she explains. “The first Opus One vintage was produced in 1979 and in 1984, the wine was released in only five states.

Today, Opus One is sold in 70 countries worldwide, and it’s the only winery to have offices in Bordeaux, France.”

I was thrilled to taste a Bordeauxtype blend from Napa, Calif., that indeed compared favorably and even outshined some of the renowned French equivalents. The next time I try a French Bordeaux, I will have a new standard by which to compare it — one that comes from California.

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.

“SINCE WE’VE CHANGED THE RESTAURANT’S CONCEPT TO INCLUDE A WINE THEME, IT’S BEEN LIKE GOING TO COLLEGE.” – JOE SABATINI

PALM TREE GRILLE & BAR

Joe Sabatini and J. France Posener

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EATS // fork on the road Tasty insights and observations

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TONY’S PIZZA

Tony’s Pizza in Eustis carries an air of freshness and excitement that sets it apart from the crowded field of Italian-American restaurants.

STORY: SHEMIR WILES PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

I

’m convinced that no matter what city you’re in, you can throw a rock and hit an Italian-American restaurant. The cuisine is ingrained in our culture, introduced to our discerning palates by Italian immigrants who modified their native cuisine to incorporate the influences of their new homeland.

But aside from its social significance, Italian-American cuisine remains a favorite because, for many, it conjures up feelings of home. I may not be Italian, but the smell of lasagna baking in the oven or the sight of a plate brimming with spaghetti and meat sauce makes me think of eating at the dinner table with my family.

Yet, while there may be a plethora of Italian-American restaurants to choose from in any given town, it doesn’t mean all are created equal. Some stand out when it comes to taste and

originality. Situated in the sprawling outer reaches of Eustis, Tony’s Pizza is that exception.

As first impressions go, don’t let Tony’s Pizza deceive you. It may be intimate neighbors with a Marathon gas station out in what feels like the wilds of Lake County, but I like to think of places like these as pearls — get past the shell and you’ll find the prize.

And in the case of Tony’s Pizza, it’s most certainly the food.

I arrived just before the lunch rush and was able to commandeer a good seat.

Tony’s has been a staple for quality Italian-American food in the community for more than 25 years.

No one remembers the original owner’s full name (everyone just knew him as “Tony), but current owner Kay Branton has been at the helm for 11 years.

Though she has had no desire to change the restaurant’s name because of

its notoriety, she did shake things up by expanding the dining room and adding new menu items that have customers old and new clamoring for more.

“When we first bought Tony’s, it was just pizza, subs, and pasta. Now, we have flatbreads and new salads with pizzazz,” said Kay. “We’re always making good, homemade food that entices people to come back. We have some regulars who come in three to four times a week.”

Kay credits much of her success to using only the freshest ingredients and employing a very devoted staff.

“I’ve always been really proud of my employees.

They work hard.”

Such was evident when the lunch hour crowd came rolling in. As clusters of people flooded the front waiting area, servers hustled to seat and serve people in a timely manner.

Luckily, time wasn’t an

issue for me; however, my flatbreads were still served promptly. I sampled Tony’s three bestsellers: The 44 Flat, YiaYia’s Greek Flatbread, and the BBQ Flat.

While far from anything Italian, the BBQ Flat was my personal favorite. It comes with grilled barbecue chicken, sautéed red onions, mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, applewood smoked bacon, and barbecue sauce drizzled atop a perfectly cooked flatbread. The sauce was sweet and tangy and went nicely with all the additional ingredients. I especially appreciated the white meat chicken being juicy, flavorful, and generous strewn on top of the flatbread.

My second favorite was The 44 Flat, which was topped with grilled chicken, feta, freshly minced garlic, spinach, mozzarella cheese, and a light balsamic dressing. I enjoyed the light feta and fresh garlic that helped diminish

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the acidity of the balsamic dressing, and the spinach was also quite fresh.

Lastly, but most certainly not least, YiaYia’s Greek Flatbread combined all the flavors of a delicious Greek salad in a handheld version. What I loved about this particular flatbread was the cool tzatziki sauce that comes with it for dipping. Nonetheless, in addition to the wonderfully appetizing toppings, I was very impressed with the actual bread of the flatbreads.

They each were soft and warm in the middle yet still crisp around the edges, which made it perfect, nofuss finger food.

Next, I tried a Tony’s favorite: Kay’s lobster bisque. Skimming the menu, I didn’t find it listed anywhere, but I’m positive if you ask for a bowl, the waiters will certainly oblige. Served with a heavenly pair of garlic rolls, I found this beautiful bisque to be rich, creamy, and seasoned nicely. The rolls were also magnificent because they appealed to my slight obsession with garlic.

Approaching satiation, Kay presented me with one final entrée, the Portofino Bay pasta. This dish brings together sautéed chicken, stunningly plump shrimp, penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and mushrooms all tossed in a lovely pesto sauce. What I loved most about this particular dish (and why I loved Kay for

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“Whenever we come into Tony’s, they have our drinks ready. It’s home,” says Sissie. “We come here two, maybe three, times a week, and we love everything. The salads are yummy, their wings are great… it really is the best in town.”

— SISSIE PIXLEY, MELISSA CONNOR, AND LOURIE MCDOUGAL OF EUSTIS

picking it) was the pesto sauce. The peppery notes of the basil always lend incredible flavor to this simple sauce. And working side by side with the earthy mushrooms and intense, concentrated flavor of the sun-dried tomatoes, this

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dish was so scrumptious it could stand on its own sans meat. Nevertheless, the chicken and shrimp are a nice touch to a generally solid entrée.

With just a smidge of space left for dessert, Kay offered a slice of turtle cheesecake. How can you go wrong with pecans, chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake courtesy of the Cheesecake Factory?

Sweet and savory, the slice put me over the edge, but allowed me to toddle happily away from Tony’s with thoughts of a future visit swimming in my head.

ADDRESS: 2760 E. Orange Ave., Eustis, FL 32726 PHONE: 352.589.9001 HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday–Thursday, 11a.m.–9p.m.; Friday, 11a.m.–9:30p.m.; Saturday, 11:30a.m.–9p.m.; Sunday, 11:30a.m.–8p.m.

POPULAR LUNCH DISHES The 44 Flat: $8.50 Portofino Bay Pasta: $12.25 Mediterranean Pizza: $16 (small); $18 (medium); $21 (large); $23 (extra-large) Chicken Alfredo Stromboli: $10.75 Blackened Mahi Salad: $10.75

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.

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. Highway 441 across from Lake Square Mall and Home Depot. Owner “Cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a sports bar with a family restaurant. Famous for outstanding food and even better service, Vinnie’s was recently named Medium Business of the Year for 2013. They also have been voted Best Wings in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. Additional menu items include killer half-pound burgers, melt-in-your-mouth chicken strips, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheesesteaks, 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. where kids 12 and under eat free. Wednesday night is “Trivia Night” with the fun starting at 6:30p.m. and prizes being given to the top three teams. Thursday night is “Karaoke Night” where everyone is a star! There is no better place on the weekends to enjoy the game. Cousin Vinnie’s also offers many cool electronic games for the children, 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 Cousin Vinnie.

EVANS PRAIRIE COUNTRY CLUB 1825 EVANS PRAIRIE TRAIL, THE VILLAGES 352.750.2225 // WWW.EVANSPRAIRIERESTAURANT.COM

Evans Prairie Country Club is a casual fine dining restaurant inspired by a Western flair while serving delicious cuisine in an intimate dining atmosphere. As the newest country club in The Villages, and as an extension of Brownwood Town Square, you will find our rustic décor pleasing to the eyes and our exceptional food a delight to your palate. Wrought iron chandeliers grace our dining areas accented by wood-like floors, giving you a feel of being in the Old West. Comfortable and inviting, our outside bar will delight your senses while the patio and outside tables provide a scenic up-close view of beautiful Evans Prairie. Our western-style menu is chock-full of cuisine you would expect to find, including citrus-infused salads, hearty steak dishes, and fresh mouthwatering seafood, while staying reasonably priced. Evans Prairie’s specialty drinks and our eclectic dessert menu are sure to have you satisfied, and we greatly value your guest experience from each and every visit.

HOURS OF OPERATION: SUNDAY – THURSDAY: 11A.M.–9P.M. FRIDAY – SATURDAY: 11A.M.–10P.M. HAPPY HOUR: EVERY DAY 11A.M.–5P.M.

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

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).

JB BOONDOCKS

704 S. LAKESHORE BLVD., HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS 352.324.3600 • WWW.JBBOONDOCKS.COM JB Boondocks is tucked away in a picturesque setting on Little Lake Harris in Howey-in-the-Hills. JB Boondocks is accessible by land, sea, and air via car, motorcycle, boat, or seaplane. With a full bar and a huge outdoor deck overlooking the lake, JB Boondocks makes for the ultimate setting to relax and unwind. The menu offers fresh seafood, steaks, chops, classic Italian dishes, tasty sandwiches, salads, sinfully sweet desserts, and much more. Each Friday night is our famous fish fry, Wednesday night features prime rib and Thursday night is Ladies’ Night. Cocktails from the bar are festive and we have a great selection of beer and wine, as well. Situated on five acres on the lake, JB Boondocks is the perfect place for your car, motorcycle, boat, or seaplane club to gather. We have plenty of dock space and parking to accommodate all your needs.

JB BOONDOCKS IS OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY 11A.M.–4P.M., TUESDAY–THURSDAY 11A.M.–9P.M. FRIDAY 11A.M.–10P.M., SATURDAY 11A.M.–10P.M., SUNDAY NOON–8P.M.

RAMSHACKLE CAFÉ

1317 NORTH 14TH STREET, LEESBURG // 352.365.6565 Established in 1989, Ramshackle Café has been a landmark for great food. 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.

EATS // dining guide Destinations of good taste

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

LOGO

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

11A.M.–9P.M 11A.M.–9:30P.M. 11:30A.M.–9P.M. 11:30A.M.–8P.M.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR DINING SECTION? CALL US AT 352.787.4112 LOGO//Sponsor

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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.

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2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares, FL 32778

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just a touch away

CFA Live Presents Songwriters Night

"It's about Living!"

March 20 14

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you lose!

If you snooze

That’s Tom Kuros’ advice for both singles and couples.

“Even though I enjoyed living in The Villages for 18 years, I found my needs changing. The rigors of home ownership became more challenging and that’s when I decided to make a change and move to Freedom Pointe. I now feel like I am FULLY in retirement and I am totally content.”

– Tom Kuros, Freedom Pointe resident

Join us for coffee, conversation and culinary delights!

Tuesday, March 11 | 9:30 a.m.

Get the inside scoop from those who know Freedom Pointe the best… the residents! Space is limited.

For reservations and more information, call 1-866-612-8225 by March 7.

A Life Care Community 1550 El Camino Real | The Villages, FL 32159 | brookdale.com

Retirement goals aren’t always easy to meet. So is it crazy to think your financial advisor should be? Not to Edward Jones.

Our over 11,000 financial advisors are in neighborhoods like yours, not downtown skyscrapers. So a face-to-face talk about your retirement is always close at hand. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com.

Actually believes retirement goals that seem out of reach require a financial advisor who’s not.

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114 East Dixie 352.383.4539 Avenue Leesburg, FL 34748 352-787-7782

Products and services offered through Edward D. Jones & Co, L.P. © 2013, Member SIPC

Products and services offered through Edward D. Jones & Co, L.P. © 2013, Member SIPC

ALL THE PLACES LIFE CAN GO is a Trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office 52040EF-ROP01-0314 SW

A BEACON OF HOPE Over a 35-year career, George Hagerty has pursued the course of an academic entrepreneur and refers to himself as an “educational explorer.” He became the President of Beacon College last year, immediately following a four-and-a half-year international experience advancing the American higher education model on four continents. Prior to his “life transforming” work abroad, Dr. Hagerty fashioned a record of leadership in American higher education, business, government, and the nonprofit sector. To say that his life and career were unified to fulfill an ambitious agenda is an understatement.

What makes Hagerty’s life and work all the more noteworthy is that he has been legally blind for 18 years. “What is most fascinating to me is that this time of supposed limitation has proven to be the most productive and meaningful period of my life,” he says. Malcolm Gladwell, in his best-selling book David and Goliath, rehearses eloquently the real-life experiences of individuals — people with learning disabilities among them—who excelled because they take hold of “the advantages of being disadvantaged.”

“The eyesight thing is certainly an inconvenience,” Hagerty admits, “but Gladwell’s message rings true to me: I alone define whatever limits are imposed. I just don’t recommend a drive with me.”

“The challenges I confront in my daily life are certainly different from those of our students, who learn differently.

I would suggest to you that the majority of our students are right-brain thinkers. We are largely governed by a left-brain world. And yet, let’s consider the advantage of this ostensible disadvantage. You see, the right brain is prominently the creative sphere. And, further, our students, by virtue of their learning differences, are adept at and tenacious in confronting hurdles. Take a gander at the annals of successful entrepreneurs and artists. You will find a significant representation of people with learning disabilities among them.”

His job, as Hagerty sees it, “is to strengthen and grow” a community of considerable achievement and promise.

Beacon is an institution that has achieved unduplicated success in the arena of American higher education in the undergraduate preparation of students with learning disabilities.

“One merely has to look at the levels of student success in terms of four-year graduation rates, student retention, alumni employment, and graduate study to know that Beacon College is an academic home that delivers and changes lives.”

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Final thought // Gary McKechnie

LEARNING IS LIFE

Y

ears ago as I drove down Highway 33 near Groveland, sailplanes were flying above the SeminoleLake Gliderport. If you’ve never seen sailplanes in action, it’s a marvelous and mystifying sight. Really. Aside from hot air balloons and the Flying Nun, not much should be able to stay aloft without an engine.

It’s not often I feel compelled to do something, but learning to fly a sailplane suddenly become the most important item on my agenda (even more important than watching my soaps).

Recognizing this desire to do something monumentally different reminded me of something long ago. It took me back to Valencia Community College where, in 1980, a visiting speaker shared a story about a friend who wanted to become a dentist.

He suggested that she do it.

“But I’m almost 50,” she protested. “By the time I graduate, I’ll be 55!”

His answer stuck with me.

“Well, you’re going to be 55 anyway,” he explained.

“Wouldn’t it be nice to be 55 and be a dentist?”

Lately, though, that message resonates. Is it because it’s been 33 years since I’ve seen a dentist? No. It’s because in Lake County I’ve been fortunate to learn from people who’ve acquired wisdom with age. Dozens of them. Hundreds of them. And

I admire the fact that they are continually setting new goals and meeting new challenges.

One unforgettable woman (whose name I can’t remember — I’ll call her “Sullivan”) shared that in the 1960s she traded in her old life as an attractive, young coed for a new life as an attractive, young newlywed. For the next 25-plus years, she cared for her children and supported her husband’s career until her husband’s career was on autopilot and her college grad kids were starting families of their own.

Then, with her husband at work and the house empty, she was alone with her thoughts. While she treasured her family and the lives she helped shape, when she reflected on college, interrupted, she knew it was time to reshape her own life. She returned to school and taking one course each semester, spent years in pursuit of her long-delayed bachelor’s degree. And after she earned that, she went on.

Adding one course a semester to her academic resume, she was simultaneously adding to her list of life accomplishments until, years later, she made an encore appearance at commencement to receive her master’s degree in English literature. Then as she saw her 60s sailing over the horizon, she visualized herself speaking to fellow scholars at a symposium honoring her favorite poet, Emily Dickinson.

I’ve been fortunate to learn from people who’ve acquired wisdom with age. Dozens of them. Hundreds of them. And I admire the fact that they are continually setting new goals and meeting new challenges.

So back to school she went, attending one class at a time until the day came when she would defend her dissertation — something about the meter of Dickinson’s poetry being inspired by the tempo of the Protestant hymns of the day.

“I was so nervous,” she told me. “They kept asking me question after question until one of the members on the review panel said, ‘Mrs. Sullivan, will you please wait outside while we confer?’

“A few minutes later, the head of the department opened the door and said, ‘Dr. Sullivan, would you care to rejoin us?’”

With her 45-year journey complete, the newly minted Ph.D was invited to Amherst, Mass., months later to speak on a panel with the world’s leading Dickinson experts.

When we’ve eased into a safe and comfortable routine, we tend to tamp down thoughts of setting and achieving new goals. Maybe it’s human nature to follow the path of least resistance.

But if you examine your life’s greatest achievements, what likely preceded it was an unquenchable passion — and what followed was unending pride.

As you consider your dreams, keep this message from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe nearby: “Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it!”

FREEDOM TO KEEP THE DOCTOR WHO FOLLOWS YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Camogliano

INTERNAL MEDICINE A P.U.P. representative is

now at our location during open enrollment.

From office to hospital to skilled nursing facility and rehab, we follow you through every stage of your care.

Lab Draws // PT-INR, Coumadin Checks // Echocardiogram Ultrasounds // Men & Women Annual Physicals Diabetes Screening/Glucose Monitoring // Blood Pressure/Cholesterol Screening/Monitoring School/Employment Physicals // Bone Density Testing // EKG Testing

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME Hospital Affiliations

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Spanish Plains Medical Plaza, 1400 US HWY 441 N. Bldg. 900 Suite 902, The Villages, FL 32159

www.DrCamogliano.com • Find us out on M–F 8:30a.m.–5:30p.m.

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