January 29, 2026
East Ridge High Student Turning Creativity Into a Bright Academic Future
By Roxanne Brown
East Ridge High Student Turning Creativity Into a Bright Academic Future
Abi McDonald
Farming heritage: My Papa (grandfather) Jay Griner has raised cattle in Lake County for decades, so I grew up on a family beef operation with mostly Brangus. He gave me my first show heifer for 4-H when I was 8, which is how I started my own herd. I now have two bulls, eight mama cows and three heifers. From their calves, I raise beef steers every year, one to show and two to sell. My mama cows have names but not the ones I raise for beef, although I have no problem eating beef I’ve raised. The money that comes from selling the fair steers goes back into my herd, so my cow/calf operation pays for itself. I’m getting my 2026 show steer ready for the fair now.
Favorite subject in school: Agriculture.
Outside of school you’ll find me: At volleyball practice, taking care of the cows and riding my horses. I compete around the state in rodeo events and am a team roper (heeler).
My closest friends describe me as: Driven. Confident. Funny.
One of my greatest accomplishments: Having my farm-to-table beef featured this past summer on the menu of a local restaurant, 1921 Mount Dora. I showed my steer at the 2025 Lake County Fair, and Larry Baker, owner of the restaurant, bought him. He even invited me to come to 1921 Mount Dora and have a meal from my steer.
Inspiration: My parents and my Papa. I’m very family oriented.
In 10 years I see myself: Going to school for equine and human chiropractic. I hope to stay in Florida for college.
Animals besides livestock: I have a border collie to work cows, and three pet dogs, two Jack Russells and one dachshund.
Something people wouldn’t know about me: I have an artistic side and am good at drawing.
I’d most like to be remembered as: Being an all-around good person with good intentions.
Photos: Nicole Hamel
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Originally from Nogales, Arizona, Roxanne worked in the customer service industry while practicing freelance writing for years. She came on board with Akers Media in July 2020 as a full-time staff writer for Lake & Sumter Style Magazine and was promoted to Managing Editor in October 2023—her dream job come true. Prior to that and after just having moved to Florida in 1999, Roxanne had re-directed her prior career path to focus more on journalism and went on to become a reporter for The Daily Commercial/South Lake Press newspapers for 16 years. Additionally, Roxanne—now an award-winning journalist recognized by the Florida Press Club and the Florida chapter of The Society of Professional Journalism—continues working toward her secondary goal of becoming a published author of children’s books.
