Local Talent Profile

Local Talent: Embracing art

After a successful career as a civil trial lawyer, Beth Croft Jewett has found joy as a watercolor artist. Photo: Nicole Hamel A display of Beth Croft Jewett’s watercolor creations can be seen at the Studio Art Farm in downtown…

Local Talent: A brush with destiny

Kelley Batson-Howard: ‘I find my soul while painting, and it’s never too late to start.’ Photos: Nicole Hamel Self-taught and a fulltime Eustis artist, Kelley Batson-Howard passionately puts her heart and soul into painting, something that had been on hold…

Local Talent: Destined to shine

A local country singer proves you’re never too old to launch a musical career. Story and Photo: Cindy Peterson Call it fate or God-given providence, but music found its way into local country singer J Alan Six’s life in the…

Person of Interest: Riveting prose

Eva Kovacs says ‘Zizi: A Historical Novel that will Shake America to its Roots’ is her most important work. Photo: Nicole Hamel Author Eva Kovacs of Howey-in-the-Hills has been speaking to local church groups and other forums about being raised…

Local Talent: Talented artisan

Carolyn Wood brings beauty, freshness, and new life to old furniture pieces. Photo: Nicole Hamel Just as a cosmetic surgeon does makeovers to enhance one’s appearance, Carolyn Wood does the same by bringing a fresh new look to old, outdated…

Local Talent: Magical charm

Former dental hygienist Lori Brenneman finds joy in creating jewelry pieces that leave customers feeling happy. Photo: Nicole Hamel The tagline line “Treat Yourself to Magic” can be found in Lori Brenneman’s small 10-by-9-foot shop where she makes and displays…

Local Talent: Picture perfect

Shooting beautiful sunrises, landscapes, scenic golf courses, real estate, has become Matthew Majka’s passion. Photo: Nicole Hamel Visit mdcmphotography.com and one can’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and golf courses Mount Dora photographer Matthew Majka has captured…