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!

Final Thought: Let’s play fair

Transgender women should not be allowed to participate in girls’ sports. For Selina Soule, competing in Connecticut’s 2019 state championship track meet presented a golden opportunity. A strong performance there would allow her to qualify for the New England Regional…

Local Talent: Tuned into his passion

Local man hasn’t let an illness stop him from finding his voice. Each day, aspiring singers arrive in Nashville hoping to make it in the country music business. Tyler Haney, a singer/songwriter from Leesburg, joined those dreamers when he moved…

Fork on the Road: Good sports

Gators of Umatilla scores lots of points on delicious food. Photos: Anthony Rao At Gators of Umatilla, the infamous Boobie’s Burger tastes as good as it sounds. OK, get your mind out of the gutter. This isn’t what you think. …

UF Health announces new chief operating officer for Central Florida division

Heather Bentley Long, M.S.N., has been named chief operating officer for University of Florida Health Central Florida. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to join a world-class academic health system that is respected as a leader in…

Lord of the ring

Wrestling icon flexes his faith to help aspiring wrestlers reach their dreams. Photos: Anthony Rao A group of spandex-clad warriors gather around 77-year-old Afa Anoa’i, whom they affectionately call ‘Pop.’ One can hear a pin drop as he delivers a straight-from-the-heart…

Need a laugh? Orlando Comedy is coming to Lake County

The past 12 months have brought social unrest, a deadly pandemic, and a deep political divide. We could all use a good laugh. Fortunately, Orlando Comedy is providing Lake Countians an opportunity laugh until their hearts are content. The company…

Covid vaccine available at Lake middle schools for students 12 and older

Lake County Schools, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Lake, will offer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to students age 12 and older at select middle schools across the county this week. Employees, community residents and other eligible children…

Covid vaccine available at Lake middle schools for students 12 and older

She’s the boss

Sabrina Ciceri has no problem getting down to business. Photos: Douglas Tyler Sabrina Ciceri has a high tolerance for risk and seldom worries about rejection. She’s full of determination, maintains a high level of confidence, and relishes every opportunity to…