Author Archives: BreaJjournalist

For nearly 20 years, Avon Hambrick, of Wildwood, has been working with at-risk youth who come from low-income housing in Lake and Sumter counties through her Lake County-based nonprofit organization, Life Skills of America. “Before working with us, they are feeling sad and like there is no way for them,” Hambrick said. “Because there areContinue reading “Avon Hambrick Continues To Educate Youth During Summer”

Emily Woody is passionate about connecting with the youth and cultivating a passion for reading. As the new children and teen program coordinator at the Fruitland Park Library, Woody has been working to make a difference with the local youth since she was hired in mid-April. “From a young age I realized that I justContinue reading “Emily Woody is New Librarian at Fruitland Park Library”

On Tuesday, the nonprofit marked that milestone alongside two more: one year at its current office space in Downtown Leesburg and the grand reopening of its newly expanded gift shop. Chantel Buck, president and CEO of the nonprofit, said it was amazing to see the community come together for the hourlong event at the nonprofit’sContinue reading “New Vision for Independence Celebrates 21 Years on 7/21”

Freedom rang loud and clear Sunday as members of The African American Club of The Villages and their guests celebrated Juneteenth during the club’s annual Freedom Day Potluck at Rohan Recreation. Dr. Carrie Dixon, president of TAAC, said the event looked much like how the more than 250,000 enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, celebrated thatContinue reading “TAAC Hosts Freedom Day Potluck 6/21”

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, libraries across Lake County are inviting families to celebrate a season of reading, fun and adventure. Bright colors and upbeat music created a festive atmosphere for the more than 10 families who packed a room for the luau-themed End of Summer Reading Party on Friday atContinue reading “Libraries Host One Last Chapter of Summer Fun”

An informed community is a strong community. That motto guides Mae Hazelton, of Leesburg, in her efforts to assist with planning the Community Development Corporation of Leesburg’s People’s Brunch every month for the past three years. Hazelton, who began attending the community brunch events four years ago, said it is a way for community membersContinue reading “Community Development Corporation Breaks Hiatus for Mid-Summer People’s Brunch”

A squeaky door welcomes guests daily to the Red Rooster Cookie Jar, with the smell of fresh-baked, still-warm cookies seeping out of the small house turned into a business. Yvonne Conti-O’Brien, of the Village of Poinciana, ensured every detail of her Lady Lake bakery was intentional and helps make guests feel at home. “We wantContinue reading “Find Summer Treats in the Tri-County Area”

A crowd of people flocked to Morse Boulevard and Stillwater Trail on Saturday, honking horns and holding signs in support of the nationwide Good Trouble Lives On rally, which advocates for civil and voting rights. Honoring the legacy of late civil rights activist Rep. John Lewis, the local leg of the event was hosted byContinue reading “Good Trouble Lives On Rally”

The legacy of Black military service took center stage this month with a museum presentation honoring the sacrifices of Black veterans and a library program highlighting the contributions of Black helicopter pilots during the Vietnam War. Candace Shelton feels as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, it’s the perfect year for reflection. To honor the sacrificeContinue reading “Community Programs Highlight Contributions of Black Veterans”

Ronald Nuñez is determined to create community. The president and founder of the Hispanics of Lake County Association works to create a hub of engagement for the nearly 80,000 Hispanics living in Lake County through humanitarian outreach, workforce development and multicultural awareness. One of the nonprofit’s initiatives, the annual Fiesta of the Americas, takes placeContinue reading “Preview of Fiesta of the Americas”