Celebrate Veterans Day, Nov. 11, by honoring all who have served our country – men and women, young and old, from every walk of life. While many think of husbands or fathers, countless wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters have proudly worn the uniform, too. Fly a flag, wear a red poppy, pause for a moment of silence, or simply thank every veteran you come across for their service. Small gestures carry lasting meaning.

Mark your calendar for the 2025 UF Health Bourbon, BBQ & Bustin’ Clays on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 9am to 1:30pm at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays & Archery. Enjoy sporting clays, bourbon tastings, BBQ from Florida Cracker, lawn games, vendors, and more—all supporting the UF Health Leesburg Hospital Heart and Vascular Program.

Tickets: $250 individual, $1,000 foursome, $75 guest pass.

Register now: classy.org/event/2025-bourbon-bbq-and-bustin-clays/e677508

Join a lively 1943 USO show filled with music, suspense, and a twist of espionage at Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy: A Baker House Murder Mystery on Nov. 3, 6, 7, 10, 13 and 14 at 6106 CR 44A, Wildwood. Performances begin with a pre-show at 4pm, dinner at 4:30pm and the mystery at 5pm. Costumes encouraged! 

For more information, call 352.461.0134.

Although it’s quaint and modest, Minneola Schoolhouse Library has served the city for many years. Local officials and residents recently celebrated the grand opening of it’s new 5,800-square-foot public library at 302 W. Pearl Street. Designed by Powell Studio Architecture and budgeted at $1.6 million, the modern space features meeting rooms, a teen zone and inviting reading areas. City officials hailed it as “a vibrant space where stories begin and the community comes together,” marking a proud new chapter for residents eager to learn, connect and grow together.

Green thumbs will gather in downtown Mount Dora Nov. 1 & 2 for the 31st Annual Plant & Garden Fair. This free two-day event showcases Florida-native and exotic plants alongside garden décor, experts offering gardening advice, volunteer help for heavy purchases, and a delightful, no-cost celebration for both seasoned gardeners and curious newcomers. 

530 North Donnelly St. / mountdoraplantandgardenfair.com / 9am-5pm.

As seen on America’s Got Talent, Puppy Pals Live is a fast-paced, family-friendly show starring adopted and rescued dogs performing stunts, tricks, and laugh-out-loud feats. Catch the excitement on Saturday, Nov. 8, with shows at 4pm and 7pm at The Tracy Performing Arts Center, 2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way, Sumterville.

For more information, visit:
thetracy.com or call 352.753.6600.

The Wildwood Middle High School debate team is earning top recognition across Florida and beyond. Oscar Rubio-Flores is ranked #1 in the state for Extemporaneous Debate and #6 nationally, Joseph Wise is #13 in Florida (#57 nationally), and Jacob Clayton is #18 in the state (#71 nationally). Clayton also placed #3 in Big Questions Debate, with top 10–40 finishes for Rubio-Flores, Wise and Jordan Miranda Juarez. Nashaly Soto, Gerardo Cardoso and the entire team added strong state placements in storytelling, commentary, expository, declamation and poetry.

Pears are a great desert to serve with Autumn spreads throughout November. Keep it simple with a few ingredients or offer toppings on the side. 

Simple directions:

Halve and core pears, place cut-side up in a baking dish.

Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, then roast at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.

Serve warm with a dollop of mascarpone and a splash of lightly whipped cream.

*Pears baked without cinnamon are great with a variety of cheeses like gorgonzola, manchego or brie. You can also pour on a bit of brandy or spiced rum during baking, then add vanilla gelato.

The Clermont Historical Society presents its 8th Annual Heritage Day Festival from 10am to 4pm on Nov. 22 at the Clermont Historic Village, 490 West Ave., Clermont. Volunteers wearing period costumes will demonstrate butter churning, ice cream making, canning and more alongside WWII reenactors. Model T cars will be on display and children can try hands-on activities like rug beating, washboard laundry, hanging clothes on the line, wooden tools and old-fashioned games. Museums will be open for tours, with lunches for sale. For more information, visit clermonthistoricvillage.org or call 352.432.3496.