Style’s Best of the Best winner for burgers is serving up smashed-to-order favorites behind Shamrock Lounge in Leesburg. Stoney Tony’s Smashed Burgers sets up Thursday-Saturday, weather permitting, with crispy-edged burgers that have earned plenty of local fans. Check the Stoney Tony’s Smashed Burgers Facebook page before heading over since hours and availability depend on the weather. 

1120 W North Blvd., Leesburg

Growing a mustache is only part of the story during “Movember,” the annual campaign that raises awareness for men’s health. The global movement held each year encourages conversations about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention while raising funds for research and support programs. This month, participants can sport a mustache, take on a fitness challenge or host a fundraiser. Since its start in 2003, Movember has funded hundreds of men’s health projects worldwide.

Gardeners of all skill levels can grow fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers at Clarke Park’s community garden in Wildwood. Free garden plots are available by reservation to those interested in growing their own produce and meeting fellow gardeners. The park also features a basketball court, pavilion and open green space.

605 Wilson St., Wildwood / 352.461.0134 / wildwood-fl.gov

Miss Lake County Fair Makenna Richey is 17 years old and a junior at The Villages High School. She plays the clarinet in her high school concert band and serves as the clarinet and flute section leader in the marching band. She also competes with Tri City Dance Twirlers throughout Florida. She enjoys scrapbooking, hanging out with friends, Friday night football games and getting a drink from Dunkin’. She hopes to attend the University of Central Florida and get a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

Mayor Joe Wynkoop was honored by the Florida League of Cities (FLC) during a Sept. 8 council meeting in recognition of 20 years of dedicated service and commitment to the Town of Montverde and its residents. Eryn Alcorn presented Mayor Wynkoop with the John Land Years of Service Award on behalf of the FLC. According to town officials, Wynkoop has devoted his time, leadership and experience in serving and strengthening Montverde throughout his years of service. 

The Miss Leesburg Scholarship Program recently honored Linda Watts for four decades of dedication and service during a special Miss Leesburg Legacy Brunch. The gathering celebrated Watts’ 40-year commitment to the program and her influence on generations of young women who have been part of Miss Leesburg. Organizers credited her love, dedication and years of service with helping shape the program and creating a legacy that remains an important part of its history.

The Miss Leesburg Scholarship Program has introduced its newest group of queens for the 2026-27 year. Five local titleholders were crowned, as follows: Tiny Miss Leesburg Madison Aniello, Little Miss Leesburg Myrcella Ciceri, Junior Miss Leesburg Raegan Mallory, Teen Miss Leesburg Harper Richey and Miss Leesburg Callie Braun. The queens will represent their respective divisions at community events and activities throughout their reign while serving as ambassadors for the program and the Leesburg community.

Bear’s Beans and Bagels opened its second location in Mount Dora, featuring handcrafted drinks, bagels, breakfast sandwiches and plenty of personality along Hwy 441. Founded in Umatilla just three years ago, Bear’s grew from Bear’s family coffee roots and a shared love of hunting down great bagels. Today, Bear and Mel Crockett are building on their reputation while keeping their focus on customers, employees and community.

Ever wonder how Lake Panasoffkee got its name? It comes from a Seminole/Muscogee term commonly translated as “valley of water,” a fitting description for an area shaped by lakes, springs and wetlands. During Native American Heritage Month, let’s remember the proud people who lived in the region long before modern settlement. Today, Lake “Pan” remains known for freshwater fishing and its surrounding protected wildlife habitat.