Style Magazine

Trendy, #Modern and Fashionable, Style focuses on the #lifestyle that makes #CentralFlorida a great place to #live, work and play.

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

❤️🚔Former Umatilla Police Chief Douglas O'Dell Foster, who dedicated more than three decades to public safety and public service, remembered for his legacy of service.

Foster served as Umatilla's police chief for 23 years, earning the respect of fellow officers, public officials and residents throughout Lake County. Following his retirement from law enforcement, he continued serving the community as an inspector at Lake Correctional Institution for seven years.

Known for his leadership, integrity, sense of humor and devotion to family, Foster left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.

He passed away on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026 at the age of 64.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kathleen, his family, friends, former colleagues and all who knew him.

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Men of Success 2026 – Cebert Wealth 🇺🇸

Built on trust, Cebert Wealth puts relationships first.

In a region defined by retirement, reinvention and second acts, financial planning isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people. At Cebert Wealth Advisors in The Villages, that distinction shapes everything they do. Founded and led by Dale Cebert, president and longtime advisor with decades of experience guiding clients through market shifts, career changes and retirement transitions, Cebert Wealth’s focus stays on long-term connection over short-term transactions.

What sets the firm apart is who they choose to work with. There are no required account minimums, a departure from many traditional firms. Instead, the emphasis is on finding the right fit.

“Most people think you have to have a minimum,” Dale says. “We only want to work with really nice people who have reasonable goals. We want to have the ability to help them work towards those goals and build long-term relationships.”

That philosophy has shaped a client base built largely through referrals, creating a network of relationships that tends to align from the start. It also reinforces the firm’s approach to planning, one that begins with understanding the individual before the investment.

That approach translates into a range of services designed to support clients at different stages of life. The firm works with individuals and families on retirement income planning, investment management, estate considerations and insurance strategies, helping clients organize the moving parts of their financial picture into something more manageable.

At its core, the work goes beyond portfolios and performance.

“We measure success on how people feel. We work toward supporting a sense of security,” Dale says. “Having the ability to impact people in a positive way and contribute to that feeling of reassurance is important.”

Read full story here ➡️ https://t.co/fk4lyVBOsk

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Generations of the Fickett Family Have Carried on Florida’s Ranching Tradition 🐎

In a region better known today for subdivisions and shopping corridors, the Fickett family is keeping a long tradition of ranching and rodeo alive.

Based in Eustis, they’ve been working cattle, raising horses and competing in the arena for generations.

“My mom, Lisa Burns, taught me and my sister Linsey how to rope and ride,” J’Anna Fickett says. “She was the toughest cowgirl I ever knew.”

The sisters, raised in the rodeo arena by Lisa and their dad, Jay Griner, are now bringing up their own kids in the rodeo lifestyle.

And Jay is still riding and training, these days alongside his grandkids, Colton and Jaylee. Their cousins — Linsey’s daughters, Lacy and Laney — also compete.

“Back in the day, we went to smaller amateur rodeos,” Jay says. “The fun was going as a family outing. It made for great memories.”

Jay’s roots in Lake County go back more than a century. He worked cattle in towns like Oxford, was a tie-down calf roper and has been involved with the Lake County Cattlemen’s Association for decades. He also trained horses for competition.

Read full story here ➡️ https://t.co/VzoX0xq760

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

After a Decade in Prison, Former Lake Attorney Bruce Duncan Speaks Out

Bruce Duncan had it all. Until he didn’t.

“I had the best of everything, I had the job I wanted, the profession, the wife, the house,” says the 63-year-old.

But everything changed on Oct. 17, 2009. He was coming home from a University of Florida football game and was yards a few yards away from his driveway when he turned left on Wolf Branch Road into the path of a motorcyclist, killing Steve Muller., a retired postal worker.

There was a bottle of vodka in Duncan’s truck, and his blood-alcohol level was twice the legal limit. He would plead guilty to DUI manslaughter and spend almost a decade in prison.

Calling his actions “inexcusable,” according to the Orlando Sentinel, Duncan told the judge, “I can assure you that I will spend whatever time I have left when I get out of prison to try to rectify what I have done in some way, shape or form.”

Today, he works to live up to that promise, speaking to various groups about how not to live your life addicted to drugs or alcohol.

“I can speak to a roomful of engineers and doctors and say, ‘You don’t think it can happen to you, but it can.’”

Denial is a key part of alcoholism, he says.

Read his full story here: https://t.co/Q52rOyUbPN

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Men of Success 2026 – Bob Tucker 🇺🇸

In the local floral and event world, Bob Tucker has built his reputation on reliability, creativity and mentoring young designers with one credo.

“Dare to be different,” he says. “I’ve done that all of my life.”

After 22 years in business, that mindset is shaping the next chapter of Miss Daisy’s Floral & Event Décor. The company is rebranding and consolidating operations, moving fully into a 7,000-square-foot warehouse and shifting to an appointment-only model designed to better serve clients and streamline the creative process.

“We are trying to be a little more specific with our purpose,” Bob says. “The services aren’t changing. We are going to continue to offer the same customer service we always have.”

That includes everything from everyday floral deliveries to large-scale weddings and corporate events. Whether it’s one table or 200, the approach remains the same.

“We can accommodate any event or occasion, and with our network of preferred partners, we can create an all-inclusive experience.”

Through a network of preferred vendor partners, Miss Daisy’s can coordinate everything from catering to music, creating a more seamless experience for clients.

At the center of it all is a simple idea.

“We pride ourselves on letting our clients show up, enjoy themselves and leave,” Bob says. “We handle all the details in between.”

That attention to detail extends to a large inventory of décor housed in the warehouse, as well as thoughtful touches like offering pet-friendly flower options, something few in the industry prioritize.

As the business shifts and refocuses, the goal remains the same.

“We’re here to help people,” Bob says. “Every event is different, every purpose is different, and we make sure it feels that way.”

➡️ https://t.co/oqOKgapMDh

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Lakeridge Winery Prepares for Another Exciting Summer Season

One of Central Florida’s longest-running agritourism destinations is heading into another busy summer season as crowds gather among the rolling hills of Clermont for live music, festivals and wine weekends at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards.

Known for its sprawling vineyard views, weekend entertainment and Muscadine wines, the winery has spent more than three decades building a reputation that stretches well beyond traditional wine tastings. Founded in 1989, the winery now welcomes thousands of visitors annually and has earned recognition both statewide and nationally for its wines and visitor experience.

While wine remains the centerpiece, the atmosphere has become just as much a draw.

“We can’t wait to bring back our Summer Music Series,” says Christian Slupe, Lakeridge marketing director. “It will take place every weekend in July, and then we’ll celebrate harvest at our Annual Harvest Festival, August 21-23.”

The three-day event will feature vendors, live music, food court, and grape stomping.

On Saturdays and Sundays, guests spread lawn chairs and picnic blankets across the vineyard green for Weekends at the Winery, while live musicians perform outdoors from noon to 4pm. Food vendors, wine bars and seasonal drinks like wine slushies help transform the property into one of the area’s more established recurring weekend gathering spots.

Full story here: https://t.co/HVPwibe8WI

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Cigar Lounge Offers Stogie Sanctuary for Friends and Aficionados 🥃

In a world of endless bar themes, cigars and scripture might be a first. Holy Sh’mokes in The Villages proves the combination works as a haven for folks who love to light up.

“We created Holy Sh’mokes through the love of faith and cigars,” owner Larry Fagan says. “So far, the last two years have been a dream come true.”

After a successful liver transplant in 2012, Larry and his wife Natalie Pascarella Fagan moved here in 2015 from the Pittsburgh area when his surgeon suggested he embrace a more relaxed lifestyle in a warmer climate.

“This is a second chapter for us,” Natalie says.

The former women’s professional football player (Pittsburg Passion of the Women’s Football Alliance, 2007-’10) also has a background in healthcare leadership, which played a role in her work as a caregiver as she supported both her family and Larry through his recovery.

Larry, in his signature Panama hat and relaxed Cuban style, plays host while Natalie attends to the finer points of running the bar.

Read full story here ➡️ https://t.co/0NBd6XBMi4

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Eagle Exterminating is celebrating 50 years in business, marking a milestone for the locally owned pest control company that has served generations of customers throughout Lake County.

The company was founded in 1976 by Ed Robinette Sr. and his nephew, Danny Holderfield, in Mount Dora. According to owner Kenny Driggers, the business originally operated out of Holderfield's home before growing into the company it is today.

Kenny joined Eagle Exterminating in 1981 at age 19 after leaving his father's roofing business.

"It was just a job at that time," Kenny says. "Then I decided I liked meeting different people, and you're not in one place all day. So just figured I'd make a career."

After working in the industry for several years, Kenny became a certified operator and later served as a supervisor for the company. In 2019, Ed Robinette Jr. sold him the pest control portion of the business. Ed retained the termite division as he began transitioning toward retirement.

Today, Eagle Exterminating serves customers throughout Lake County, The Villages and parts of northern Orange County, including Apopka and South Apopka.

Asked what has helped the company remain successful for five decades, Kenny points to its relationships with customers.

"I think it's just an old-school hometown," he says. "Our customers are family. They're not just a number."

Read the full story here: https://t.co/lAxYOTmjM0

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Bear’s Beans & Bagels Expanding to Mount Dora with Second Location

The popular coffee and bagel shop recently gave customers a sneak peak of the new location, teasing a photo of a colorful mural created by local artist Room Sparkles ahead of the grand opening scheduled for June 14.

Bear and Mel Crockett opened the Umatilla location in July 2023 after transforming a former tea supply store into a retro-inspired coffee shop known for its creative specialty drinks, fresh bagels and community-focused atmosphere.

The new Mount Dora location will operate in addition to the existing Umatilla shop, which will remain open.

For Bear, the growth is the realization of a goal he shared shortly after opening the business.

“Ideally, I'd like to get a second location and eventually franchise,” he said during an earlier interview with Style. “I think this is something we could really do well.

The idea for Bear’s Beans & Bagels was inspired by family traditions. Bear’s grandfather, Patrick O’Dare, operated a commercial coffee business for decades throughout Central Florida, while the two shared a love of discovering great bagels together.

Full story here: https://t.co/NopNs2UVhb

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Clermont Teen Creates Inspirational Rock Garden for Cancer Survivors

Family members, friends and community supporters gathered Saturday afternoon at the Clermont Historic Village to celebrate a project designed to bring comfort, hope and awareness to others for years to come.

There, 18-year-old Girl Scout Synthia Pascoe unveiled an inspirational rock garden she created for the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation's (GCCF) reflection garden, a project that earned her the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouts and the equivalent of an Eagle Scout Award.

The May 30 unveiling was attended by Synthia, GCCF President Laura Henry, directors Kay Simpson and Natasha Selski, volunteers from the Clermont Historic Village and several community members who stopped to admire the colorful display.

For Pascoe, the project was personal.

"My mom actually had thyroid cancer when she was pregnant with me and then my brother had melanoma before I was born," she says. “Cancer is one of those things that most people are touched by somehow.”

A Juliette Girl Scout—a Girl Scout who participates independently rather than as part of a troop—Pascoe has been involved in the program since kindergarten. She previously earned both her Bronze and Silver Awards before setting her sights on the Gold Award.

"I knew I wanted to do something with GCCF so I decided to partner with them and do something along the lines of a kindness rock garden," Synthia says.

The project consists of two large planters filled with painted rocks featuring inspirational messages, encouraging words and the colors associated with different types of cancer. Visitors are encouraged to take a rock and add one of their own.

Read the full story here: https://t.co/8DQdochlab

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

What’s Going On In and Around Lake County - June 2026 ☀️

From award-winning barbecue and local landmarks to community milestones and hidden gems, discover what's happening across Lake County this month. Check out the latest edition for hometown stories, local businesses, history and events that make our community unique.✨

➡️ https://t.co/rhWWTMPZOS

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Men of Success 2026 – Andy Price 🇺🇸

Andy Price has spent his career in the utility industry, building on a foundation that started with his father’s company, American Safety Utility Corporation. He learned very early what it takes to support the people responsible for keeping the lights on.

But what began as a career has grown into something far more personal.

For nearly three decades, he has been collecting artifacts tied to the history of line work, some dating back to the 1800s. What started in 1996 as curiosity turned into a mission after he realized something was missing.

“This is the greatest story that’s never been told,” he says. “The linemen, everything they do, especially now, they are the forgotten heroes,” he says. “We should think of them daily.”

That mission now lives at the Lineman Ranch in Leesburg, a nearly 20-acre property dedicated to preserving the legacy of the men and women who built and maintain the power grid. The museum continues to expand, with archives, relics and historical pieces that bring the trade into focus in a way few have seen before.

“You think about first responders and go immediately to firemen and law enforcement,” he says. “But when the hurricanes come and the lights go out, that’s when the linemen show up, often in the dark in very dangerous situations.”

To support mission, the beautifully restored barn called “The Venue at Lineman Ranch,” is a full-scale event space designed for weddings, corporate gatherings and community events. They work with local preferred vendors and are a 501(c)(3), with all the generated revenue going to fund the museum and other projects.

“This space is not only perfect for event but All of that money goes to these important projects to ensure the history—and the people behind it—are not forgotten.”

➡️ https://t.co/ZK2D4do8zL

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Arcade Lights, Sports Simulators and a Steady Buzz of Activity Collide in Clermont’s Newest Entertainment Concept 🕹️

On any given afternoon in downtown Clermont, it’s easy to spot the mix; kids darting between arcade games, parents lining up a putt, couples laughing or playfully arguing over a shared challenge.

It’s the kind of energy Darren Johnson had in mind when he set out to create something the area didn’t have: a whole family entertainment venue.

“I’ve been in the hospitality business and as a grandparent, I quickly realized there were limited places for kids’ entertainment, a little bit of adult entertainment, plus food and beverages, here in town,” he says.

That realization became the blueprint for Game On, a family-friendly entertainment hub and event center that keeps everyone happy.

“It was a matter of pulling all the pieces together for the right mix of participation from adults and from their kids,” he says.

Less than one year in, the concept is catching on.

Game On buzzes with activity. Rows of arcade games light up the room, from skee-ball and pinball to crane games and virtual reality attractions that keep kids (and plenty of adults) stockpiling points, which are loaded onto cards and can be presented for prizes.

Read full story here ➡️: https://t.co/nIsUvv69qC

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

The June issue of Lake & Sumter Style Magazine is here! 🎉

This month, we shine the spotlight on our 2026 Men of Success — a group of hardworking, dedicated men who are making a difference throughout Lake and Sumter counties through their leadership, service, entrepreneurship and commitment to their communities.

Read the June issue online here ➡️: https://t.co/XGzImB0SnL

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

👑 Business Women of Style 2026 – Salon NK

Nicole Campbell and her team at Salon NK in Fruitland Park focus on delivering a personalized experience for every client who walks through the door. With more than 55 years of combined experience, the salon offers dimensional color, extensions and customized cuts tailored to each individual.

Nicole works alongside Christie Truluck, Amanda Youngren and Jasmine McClain, each bringing their own strengths behind the chair. From custom color and blonding to extensions and keratin treatments, the team works together to create a well-rounded experience.

“We want people to feel at ease when they come in,” Nicole says. “If they’re relaxed and happy, everything else falls into place.”

That approach has helped build a loyal client base and a salon environment where people return not just for great hair, but for the welcoming atmosphere and the team behind it.

➡️ https://t.co/DzSeIeiW7f

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Rachel Sadlemire Helps Middle Schoolers Find Their Confidence🌟

AVID | Tavares Middle School

Rachel Sadlemire knew early on that she wanted to work with children. More than that, she wanted to be the adult who sees potential before a child sees it in themselves.

Today, as the AVID teacher at Tavares Middle School, she gets to live that calling every single day.

She began her career in Lake County Schools as a school social worker. While she loved building relationships with families and supporting students behind the scenes, she realized her heart belonged in the classroom. Teaching allows her to become part of each student’s daily story, not only guiding their academics, but helping shape their confidence.

Before stepping into her current role, Rachel taught second grade for many years and loved every minute of it. Still, she knew that if the AVID position ever opened at Tavares Middle, she would apply. Middle schoolers, she says, are the perfect mix of sass, curiosity and uncertainty.

“They are standing at the edge of who they will become, and I feel incredibly blessed to walk alongside them during those pivotal years,” she says.

One of her greatest joys is teaching many of the same students from sixth through eighth grade, watching their growth over three formative years.

➡️ Read full story: https://t.co/ftYnnV0DBT

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Lake Schools Considering Combining Oak Park and Carver Middle Schools

Lake County Schools is proposing to combine Oak Park Middle School and Carver Middle School into a single middle school campus in Leesburg, a move district leaders say would expand academic offerings, increase elective options and create new opportunities for students.

Under the proposal, the combined school would be located on the Carver Middle School campus and would open for the 2027-28 school year. Both schools would continue operating separately during the 2026-27 school year while district officials work through a yearlong planning and transition process.

According to the district, the proposal is designed to strengthen middle school programming by bringing together students, staff and resources from both schools into a larger learning environment capable of supporting a broader range of courses and extracurricular activities.

Currently, enrollment at both schools limits the number of electives and specialized programs that can be offered. District leaders say combining the schools could allow students access to additional opportunities such as culinary arts, digital design, robotics and other courses aligned with the Career and Technical Education pathways available at Leesburg High School.

The district is also exploring the addition of Pre-AICE coursework to help prepare students for the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education program offered at Leesburg High.

If approved by the School Board, renovations at the Carver campus could begin as early as this summer. District officials say students, families, staff and community members would be invited to participate on committees throughout the transition process to help guide planning and decision-making.

Full story here: https://t.co/9ITZf4aHKE

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

👑 Business Women of Style 2026 – Mustard Seed Decor and Gifts

Linda Lee Hosler turned a passion for home decor into Mustard Seed Decor & Gifts, a shop in Middleton that has quickly become a favorite for those looking for something a little different. Located near the Eastport town center, the store offers a wide selection of home accents and unique gifts for all ages, including more than 30 brands made in the United States, along with products from local artisans in The Villages.

Linda works alongside a close-knit team that includes her mother, Linda Kerspilo, as well as store managers Tara Hosler and Casey Costello. Together, they focus on creating a welcoming environment where customers feel comfortable asking questions and exploring ideas for their homes.

“My favorite part is when someone comes in not knowing what they want, and we help them find that perfect piece,” Linda says. “Once they see it, they know it’s exactly what they were looking for.”

Before opening the store, Linda worked in home decor and later became a certified interior decorator, something she now encourages her team to pursue as well. That background shapes how they approach each interaction, offering more than just a retail experience.

“We’re more than just salespeople,” she says. “We want to help make your home beautiful and bring your space together.”

Since opening, the response from the community has been strong. Linda says the support from Middleton and The Villages has helped the store grow faster than expected, especially in its first year.

The shop is constantly changing, with new merchandise arriving regularly and displays updated often to keep things fresh.

“If you come in today and come back a few days later, you’re not going to see the same store,” she says. “We’re always bringing in new things and reworking the space.”

For Linda and her team, it’s about more than what’s on the shelves.

“We sell decor and gifts,” she says, “but what we really love is helping people create joy in their homes.”

➡️ https://t.co/eiw0z3pCJB

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Electrical Works’ Tristan Ciceri Named to National Electrical Code Panel

OHI announced that Tristan Ciceri, president of Electrical Works in Leesburg, has been named to the National Electrical Code’s Code-Making Panel 7 (NEC-P07), where he will represent RV parks, campgrounds and glamping businesses on electrical code matters affecting the outdoor hospitality sector.

Tristan succeeds Wade Elliott, founder of Utility Supply Group, who served on the panel for more than a decade after being nominated by OHI. The association selected Tristan following Elliott’s announcement last year that he would retire from the NEC board role.

According to OHI, NEC-P07 is the governing body responsible for overseeing electrical code provisions related to RV parks, campgrounds, marinas and manufactured homes. The association has historically nominated individuals with expertise in campground electrical systems to represent the outdoor hospitality industry on the panel.

Electrical Works is a family-owned electrical contracting company that specializes in the design, construction and rewiring of electrical systems for outdoor hospitality properties across the United States.

“I am honored to be representing the outdoor hospitality industry and grateful to have been nominated by OHI, especially during such an important time,” Tristan says. “As Ground Monitor Interrupters (GMI) begin to show up in new RVs next year, it is especially important that our industry has representation on the NEC.”

https://t.co/EYuIISA0on

[Style Magazine @GetStyleMag]

Congratulations to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Michael Marden on being selected to attend the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. ⭐

He will join Class 299 this July, an honor reserved for a select group of law enforcement leaders from across the country. Fewer than 1% of law enforcement officers are invited to attend the academy during their careers.

The FBI National Academy is recognized as one of the nation’s premier leadership and professional development programs for law enforcement professionals. Marden’s selection reflects years of dedication, hard work and service to the citizens of Lake County.

Congratulations on this outstanding achievement and best of luck as you represent Lake County on the national stage!!