Author Archives

James Combs

Akers Media Group's James Combs has been a staff writer for several local publications since August 2000. He has had the privilege of interviewing some of Lake County's many fascinating residents—from innovative business owners to heroic war veterans—and bringing their stories to life. A resident of Lake County since 1986, James recently embarked on a journey to lead a healthier lifestyle. He has lost 60 pounds and walks nearly five miles a day. In his spare time, he enjoys target shooting, skeet shooting and watching his beloved Kentucky Wildcats!

Turning back the clock

Bobby Vignapiano brings back the timeless songs of yesterday. Photos: Nicole Hamel The room goes dark. As the singer makes his appearance on stage, a spotlight projects a bright beam of light onto him. Simultaneously, battery-operated candle lights turn on…

In the Villages: Strive for a happy, healthy New Year

Villagers, make 2022 your best year yet. Remember the 1980s hit song “I’m so Excited” by The Pointer Sisters? With 2022 here, I’m very excited and I just can’t hide it! Actually, I have this joyful feeling with the arrival…

Meet a Villager: Nancy Stampahar

A compassionate woman helps retirees live meaningful and fulfilled lives. Photo: Nicole Hamel Career: I am a retirement life coach, which means I concentrate on the non-financial aspect of retirement. I focus on the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of…

Final thought: Be a good sport

Don’t force an unwilling child into playing sports. Jess Lair, a former Montana State University professor who wrote a bestselling book on self-help, gave us this thought-provoking quote. “Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be…

Sew Wonderful

Sometimes, something as small as a quilt can carry a big message of love. Photos: Nicole Hamel They warm arms. They warm legs. And, most importantly, they warm hearts. Members of the Mulberry Quilters Chapter of The Villages Quilting Guild…

In the Kitchen: The sweet taste of success

For Nikki Anderson, being a self-employed baker is icing on the cake. Photos: Nicole Hamel Nikki Anderson stands in her home kitchen, baking a cake with laser-like focus. She precisely measures ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. They blend beautifully.…

In the Villages: Sweeten your Florida experience

Raise your glass and enjoy one of the state’s hidden gems. OK, all you newbies to The Villages. We know you’re looking for fun activities not too far away from your new home. If you’re an oenophile (wine lover), then…

Lake County Fair wins multiple awards

The Lake County Fair, Eustis, Florida received four Award of Excellence in the Hall of Honor Communications contest during the International Association of Fairs and Expositions 2021 Virtual Awards Show. Those awards included… _First Place – “Out of the Box…

Hope springs eternal

A Clermont organization provides plenty of love and generosity. Photos: Cindy Peterson A single parent seeking steady employment. A homeless family searching for housing. A poor person in need of food. A middle-aged man enduring daily stress. These are among…