LEESBURG

Volunteers came together on Wednesday to distribute thousands of pounds of food to families in need before Thanksgiving.

The cause of the fire that destroyed a historic school building in Mineral Wells is now under investigation.

Our seventh grader brought home a photo of a lesson at her school. We quickly learned that critical race theory wasn't all they were teaching.

LEESBURG, Fla. — Starting today, thousands of motorcyclists will gather in Lake County for the return of Leesburg Bikefest. Read: Leesburg Bikefest canceled due to pandemicMerchants and bikers who were forced to take a detour from Bikefest in 2020 have a lot to look forward to this weekend. We have an amazing poker run event happening during Leesburg Bikefest this weekend called Wreaths Across America! pic.twitter.com/EJ4wlmkCLY — Leesburg Bikefest (@LeesburgBike) November 11, 2021Planners began preparing for big crowds early in the week, setting up food vendors, putting barriers around the main stage and even planting flowers. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 Leesburg Bikefest 2017.

"I'm hopeful that we can use this to move forward and to progress and get some true meaningful change," James Whitfield told NBC News.

A woman wanted as an accessory to a deadly shooting in Leesburg has been arrested in Virginia Beach, but the man who police believe pulled the trigger is still on the run, according to the Leesburg Police Department.

A 19-year-old man was shot and killed early Monday morning inside a home in Leesburg.

More people wanted to learn how to kayak in natural settings than state park volunteers expected. In September, Lake Griffin State Park volunteers brought back the park’s Kayak 101 classes

A 66-year-old man riding a bike was killed in a crash in Leesburg, police say.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A Lake County man claimed a $1 million prize from the new “GOLD RUSH LIMITED” scratch-off game at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. Brian Nelson, 26, of Leesburg, made the trip to Tallahassee to claim his prize with his fiancée of one month, Emily Pelton. See a map of the location below:READ: Man wins lottery twice in 2 weeksThe Quik Mart will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket. READ: $1 million winning Powerball ticket sold in FloridaThe Lottery’s newest $20 scratch-off game, GOLD RUSH LIMITED, features 32 top prizes of $5 million and 100 prizes of $1 million. Additionally, the ticket is filled with over 33,000 prizes of $1,000 to $100,000, lottery officials said.

This Lake County man is lucky in more ways than one.

A Leesburg man was arrested Thursday on the warrant for a homicide that occurred in June, according to a Lake County arrest report.

LEESBURG, Fla. — Thousands of utility customers who get their service from the city of Leesburg could get a surprise on their next bill. That’s because the company that’s paid to print and mail the bills fell behind their mailing schedule in the last billing cycle. >>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<The company said staffing issues related to COVID-19 were to blame for the delay. Now, around 16,000 of Leesburg’s 27,000 customers could receive two bills back-to-back, or a larger bill covering two billing cycles. City officials recommend calling or stopping by City Hall to speak with customer service.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating a Tavares man’s death after reports of a shooting in Leesburg Monday morning. Deputies responded to reports of shots fired at a home on Kinne Pearce Road and arrived to find an unconscious man outside the home. >>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<READ: Arden Villas residents raise concerns over complex following death of Miya MarcanoThe man was pronounced dead soon after by responding paramedics. He’s been identified by the sheriff’s office as 35-year-old Joseph MitchellThe sheriff’s office didn’t specify whether the shooting was actually the cause of Mitchell’s death. READ: Man shot after getting into standoff with police during officer-involved shooting, police chief saysThough no arrests have been made, deputies say they have everyone involved in the shooting in custody.

A Tavares man was found dead after Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of shots fired at a Leesburg residence early Monday, according to a release from Lake County detectives.

The National Women's Soccer League has called off its weekend games amid sexual abuse allegations against former North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley.

Hail and well met! The Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire will be bringing a hefty dose of pride and pageantry to Central Florida over two...

School shooting reported FILE PHOTO: Police are investigating reports of a school shooting at Heritage High School in Leesburg, Virginia. (Google Map/Google)NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Authorities are responding to a shooting reported Monday at Heritage High School in Virginia, officials with the Newport News Police Department said. >> Read more trending newsPolice said students were being evacuated to the school’s tennis courts, where parents were being asked to meet them. Shooting — Heritage High School -https://t.co/s6CcjGzwfi — Newport News Police Department (@NewportNewsPD) September 20, 2021Earlier, Michelle Price with Newport News Public Schools told WAVY-TV that a “major incident” happened at the school. Check back for updates to this developing story.

Nicole Duslak is living her dream. The artist and educator stood at the front of a classroom at CREATE Conservatory in Leesburg. The K-5 nonprofit school she runs is the result of years of study, experience and what she calls “a perfect storm of circumstances.”

With meteorological summer season officially in the books, it’s time to recap how Central Florida faired through summer 2021.

Leesburg parents Two Leesburg parents are facing negligent-death manslaughter charges after their infant child died covered in what appeared to be dirt and feces, police said. (wftv.com)Leesburg, Fla. — Two Leesburg parents are facing negligent-death manslaughter charges after their infant child died covered in what appeared to be dirt and feces, police said. Mark Brittian and Margaret Lehman are both facing manslaughter and negligent death of a child charges. Leesburg Police around 3 a.m. on Sept. 2 responded to the 400 block of Pine Street in reference to an unresponsive 11-month-old infant who was not breathing. The infant weighed about 13 pounds and was “extremely underweight and underdeveloped,” the affidavit states.

A Leesburg mother and father were arrested after their 11-month-old died on Thursday, according to court records.

A 34-year-old man is found shot to death in the yard of a Leesburg home, police say.

Two people were killed in a crash involving a tractor trailer Wednesday morning, according to the Leesburg Police Department.

A woman faces a murder charge after she sold fentanyl to a Leesburg man who ended up dying from an overdose, according to the Lake County Sheriff's Office.

Tropical rain bands moved through as Elsa skirted the west coast,. We show how it impacted the local rainfall deficit.

A house in Leesburg featured in the movie “Away We Go” burned down on Friday morning, according to investigators.

Pennsylvania GOP is trying to 'cancel' critical race theory academics, critics point out

Deputies are asking for the public's help searching for a 79-year-old Leesburg man.

Witnesses told investigators the helicopter made six passes before the snorkel, a piece of firefighting equipment, came loose.

UF Health says it has taken major precautions to thwart a cyberattack.

An iconic home, the Mote-Morris House, is now restored after it was heavily damaged by a fire in 2018.

A man driving with a suspended license confessed to a hit-and-run crash once he learned his children told authorities the crash happened, but he said he believed he hit an animal, according to the Leesburg Police Department.

Brainerd Helicopters has been awarded more than $180 million in contracts with the federal government for firefighting and other services since 2007, records show.

Federal investigators with the National Transportation Safety Bureau are back at the scene of a deadly helicopter crash in Leesburg.

The helicopter with four people on board crashed into a central Florida marsh during a training exercise. One body was recovered, and four people were on board during the training.

The Black Hawk helicopter was on a training mission when it crashed near the Leesburg, Florida airport, officials said.

At least one person is dead after a Black Hawk helicopter crashed into a marsh near the Leesburg airport during a training exercise on Tuesday, according to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Leesburg Fire Rescue.

One body was recovered Tuesday night and no survivors have been found, Leesburg Fire Rescue said in a Facebook post. A search and rescue effort began immediately after the crash, but the crash site couldn't be cleared because of hazards in the area, the Leesburg Police Department said in a news release Wednesday. “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy within our wildland firefighting family,” said Florida Forest Service director Erin Albury.

LEESBURG, Fla. — Four people were on board a firefighting helicopter when it crashed into a marsh near the Leesburg airport during a training exercise on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. READ: Royal Caribbean gets CDC approval for test cruises from Miami in late June🔥INCIDENT🔥 Currently, RED 1 (Leesburg’s airport crash truck) is on scene of an aircraft crash at the airport. More... Posted by Leesburg Fire Rescue on Tuesday, May 25, 2021According to the FAA, the helicopter was a Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk. Iozzi said his department got a call just before 6 p.m. about a downed aircraft near the airport. Leesburg fire crews responded along with them and reported seeing smoke near the site.

New heat records in three central Florida cities

Five years after their mother was killed in a Leesburg drunk driving crash, a family is demanding answers after the suspect vanished.

During the morning hours Thursday, a cold front will march into Central Florida. ORLANDO, Fla. – The heat was still on in Central Florida on Wednesday. But the record for Wednesday, in Orlando, was 95 degrees from way back in 1907. During the morning hours Thursday, a cold front will march into Central Florida. Then on Friday expect more sunshine and much cooler temperatures with a high of only 65 degrees.

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. – Two drivers were killed Thursday in a nearly head-on crash in Sumter County, the Florida Highway Patrol said. The double fatal wreck was reported around 4:48 p.m. on State Road 50 near County Road 721. The FHP said a 59-year-old Leesburg man was driving a pickup truck west on S.R. 50 and entered the eastbound lane, colliding into another pickup truck. The Leesburg man was taken to a hospital and later died, according to an FHP report.

When they arrived they found the victim lying next to his golf cart with multiple injuries. Prior to their arrival deputies had a call from the victim about an argument between himself and Coble regarding a “love affair and alleged stalking,” according to the report. Witnesses told deputies they saw the victim pull into the driveway in his golf cart and begin arguing with Coble. During the argument, Coble drove his truck at the victim in his golf cart, causing the victim to fall into the street, according to the arrest report. As the victim was laying there, witnesses say Coble put his truck in reverse and ran over the victim again, then drove forward hitting the victim for a third time.

LEESBURG, Fla. – A 27-year-old man is accused of stealing a van from a behavioral center in Leesburg, where he “got tired of waiting” before attempting to take another vehicle from a woman at a separate nearby business, according to police. Authorities began searching for the white Chevrolet van and received reports that the van was spotted going south on 441, driving on the wrong side of the road, according to the report. The van had been tracked to a nearby area, where authorities said the man was last seen running into Lake Griffin Mobile Home Park, officials said. Officers interviewed the carjacking victim and witnesses about both crimes, one of whom said Winkler first got into her vehicle while she was trying to leave work at LifeStream. Winkler is charged with carjacking without a weapon and vehicle theft, according to the arrest affidavit.

LEESBURG, Fla. – A 62-year-old man is dead after a shooting Sunday night in Leesburg, according to authorities. AdHe was flown to Ocala Regional Medical Center, where he later died, records show. Officers did not provide any additional information about what led to the shooting or any possible suspects. Investigators are asking anyone with information to call Leesburg Police at 352-728-9862 or Crimeline at 800-423-8477. Use the form below to sign up for the ClickOrlando.com 4pm Trending newsletter, sent every weekday.

The pilot of a small plane was uninjured Sunday morning after the plane had mechanical issues and crashed into Lake Harris, according to the Tavares Police Department. The pilot was unable to land the plane back at the Leesburg International Airport, but after the plane crashed into the lake, was able to swim to safety, police said.

Crime scene tape outside a home where three people were killed in a murder suicide, according to Tavares police. The victims later identified as James Delgiorno, 41, and Wendy Higgins, 39, were discovered Thursday morning in a home on Lakecrest Drive after Leesburg police requested a well-being check. Leesburg police were able to obtain his vehicle’s GPS data tracing it to Lakecrest Drive and Shorewood Drive near a home owned by Delgiorno. Leesburg authorities notified Tavares police of Mcguirl’s vehicle whereabouts and that Delgiorno and Higgins were likely inside the home. Police said they found Delgiorno and Higgins both shot to death in bed as though they had been sleeping.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A silver alert issued for a Leesburg 87-year-old has been canceled after deputies say she has been found safe. EARLIER REPORT:Lake County deputies say they’re looking for a missing 87-year-old Leesburg woman after her son reported that there were declined charges on her bank account and he’d recently received an odd text message about his mother. Deputies said they went to Hyder’s home on Galloway Court and realized she and her vehicle, a beige 2004 Buick Century bearing Florida license plate number G3BBP, were missing. A silver alert has since been issued for her. Anyone with information concerning her whereabouts is asked to call the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at 352-343-2101.

It was a record day for heat on Thursday in Central Florida. ORLANDO, Fla. – It was a record day for heat on Thursday in Central Florida. The next cold front is marching into Central Florida by the middle of the day. The last of the showers will exit Central Florida by 5 or 6 p.m. on Friday. By Monday Central Florida will return to above normal conditions with highs getting back to the upper 70s.

ORLANDO, Fla. – We’re starting off Wednesday with patchy fog once again across Central Florida. The record high is 87, set in 1921. Leesburg set a new record high Tuesday, reaching 85. The high temperature in Sanford Tuesday was 86, tying the 1957 record high. Orlando has a yearly rain deficit of 2.30 inches.

ORLANDO, Fla. – It was very warm in Central Florida on Tuesday. In Leesburg, temperatures reached 84 degrees. Once the fog burns off Central Florida will have another hot day for February. Look for the high on Wednesday to make it back to at least 84 degrees in Orlando. The warmweek keeps on going Thursday with a high of 84 degrees.

LEESBURG, Fla. – Lake County leaders say their first appointment-based vaccine clinic is improving by the hour. Thursday was the second day for the county-run vaccine clinic at Lake-Sumter State College in Leesburg. The county opened up appointments for the vaccine clinic on Tuesday and every slot filled within minutes, according to Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks. | Fifth-largest lotto jackpot up for grabs]This vaccination site filled 652 appointments per day, according to Thomas Carpenter, the county director of emergency management. He said workers at the vaccination site are trying to fill those vacancies in real-time.

A person and a cat were rescued from a fire at Best Value Inn in Leesburg. LEESBURG, Fla. – A person and a cat were rescued after a fire ripped through a room at an inn Tuesday afternoon, according to the Leesburg Fire Department. They said they removed a door and found a person who had been shut in a bathroom. He or she was airlifted to a local trauma center for treatment. 🔥INCIDENT🔥 **ONE PERSON RESCUED OUT OF BUILDING FIRE** At approximately 5:00PM today, Station 62 was notified of a... Posted by Leesburg Fire Rescue on Tuesday, January 5, 2021A cat was also rescued from the flames.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A silver alert has been issued for a Leesburg woman who hasn’t been seen since she left her home late Tuesday afternoon, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies said 77-year-old Donna Fairweather left her home on Kings Boulevard at about 4:30 p.m. wearing a black shirt and gray sweatpants. | Fla. child porn suspect had hidden bunker]She was driving her black Kia Soul bearing Florida license plate number LCHX28. Deputies said her debit card was used in the Bunnell area on Wednesday and it’s possible she could still be in Marion County. Anyone with information concerning her whereabouts should contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Cold shelters are opening across Central Florida as temperatures may dip below freezing Thursday night into Friday morning. Most of Central Florida will wake up on Friday to temperatures in the 30s and 40s with highs in the mid-50s. Eustis – pick-up times: 4:30 p.m. - Ardice Transfer Center. Friday and SaturdayClermont – pick-up times: 3:30 p.m. – Citrus Tower Boulevard and Highway 27 in Clermont. Eustis – pick-up times: 4:45 – 5 p.m. – 13 Eustis Street, the public parking lot next to The Open Door, located at 115 E. Citrus Ave. in Eustis.

LEESBURG, Fla. – Deputies are asking for the public’s help in finding a Leesburg man reported missing. Officials said deputies are attempting to find Raymond Shelton, 81, due to his son reporting him missing after not being able to make contact with him. Shelton was last seen by his neighbors Friday as he went for a walk near his home on Plumosa Drive. Shelton drives a blue four-door 2017 Chevrolet Sonic with Florida tag IJE-Z31, which is not at the home, officials said. Family members are unsure as to where Shelton may be attempting to go, officials said.

LEESBURG, Fla. – In downtown Leesburg, instead of Black Friday, they’re calling it Plaid Friday, encouraging people to shop local. “It’s been quieter, but we still have customers that are faithful,” said Dell Ross, owner of Doggibags Boutique. [TRENDING: Trump says he will leave if ... | Tropics still bubblin’ | Disney to lay off thousands more workers]Doggibags Boutique has been in downtown Leesburg for nearly 40 years. Leesburg is encouraging people to shop local through the "Plaid Friday" event. (WKMG 2020)Outside her shop, vendors are setting up for the Christmas Stroll event with live music and activities.

LEESBURG, Fla. – ***8:11 a.m. Nov. 28, 2020 UPDATE***Deputies said Charles Robert Maddox has been found safe and sound. ***ORIGINAL***The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Silver Alert for a missing 80-year-old man. Deputies said Charles Robert Maddox, who goes by the name Bob, left his Leesburg home around 7 a.m. Friday before his wife woke up. Maddox is a white man, 5 feet, 10 inches tall with brown eyes and short, straight, gray hair. Anyone with information about Maddox is asked to call the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at 352-343-2101.

Published: November 27, 2020, 7:00 am Updated: November 27, 2020, 7:32 amLEESBURG, Fla. – A Leesburg firefighter is recovering after being injured battling a blaze at a mobile home, officials said. The fire broke out last Wednesday at the Holiday Mobile Home Park off County Road 33. [TRENDING: Trump says he will leave if ... | Tropics still bubblin’ | Disney to lay off thousands more workers]Leesburg Fire Rescue said the fire was contained to one home, but some nearby homes sustained heat damage. The firefighter suffered minor injuries, officials said. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.

LEESBURG, Fla. – A 61-year-old man was found dead on his front porch Friday night after Lake County deputies say he was shot and killed by a neighbor. Deputies have arrested Scott Curtiss Rudolph, who is also 61, for the death of his neighbor, Jerry Michael Stewart. The victim’s wife told deputies they had just moved to the park about three weeks ago. In the last week, the two men had an argument and Stewart later went to apologize, his wife said. Rudolph is charged with first-degree murder and booked into the Lake County Jail without bail.

LEESBURG, Fla. – Lauren Taylor may be the unofficial record holder for approved benefits by the Department of Economic Opportunity with eight consecutive approval notices in eight weeks. The latest notice arrived in the mail on Monday with the exact message she had seen seven times before: Approved for pandemic unemployment assistance. Her 5-year-old son Steven is staying with her mother-in-law as she sorts out what has become a benefits puzzle. “If someone applies multiple times, they may receive multiple determinations,” she wrote. "In addition, the Department sent out Quarter Change information for claimants who may have been impacted from the Quarter Change earlier this month. "

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A 44-year-old man is in the Lake County Jail, accused of uploading videos exploiting a child from his employer’s computer. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office says they received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that traced back to an insurance company in Eustis. Investigators say the two files clearly contained images and videos depicting child pornography and were uploaded onto KIK, a mobile app. Authorities say though the files were uploaded from an IP address relating to the insurance company, the user information pointed them to a home in Leesburg. He’s currently in the Lake County Jail being held without bond.

LEESBURG, Fla. – Leesburg Bikefest 2020 has been canceled due to the coronavirus, officials announced Friday. “Our efforts moving forward will focus on the Spring Leesburg Bikefest April 23-25, 2021.”Organizers said the event is considered one of the largest bike and music events in the country. “We estimate our crowd to be somewhere between 200-300,000 people,” Joe Shipes, CEO of Leesburg Partnership said. Leesburg Bikefest is a three-day event that expands to more than 20 blocks in downtown Leesburg, giving restaurants, retail stores and hotels a boost in sales -- not just in Leesburg, but across several other cities nearby. “That’s one of their biggest weekends of the year is Leesburg Bikefest.

LEESBURG, Fla. – A 54-year-old man was struck and killed while trying to cross a street in Leesburg, police said. The pedestrian, identified by authorities Wednesday as Joseph Meister, was crossing U.S. Highway 27 near Griffin Road around 10 p.m. Monday and walked into the path a 2005 Chevrolet pickup truck, according to the Leesburg Police Department. Meister was taklen to UF Health in Leesburg, where he died from his injuries, according to officials. It’s not known if he faces any charges. Police are asking any witnesses to call 352-787-2121.

Investigators said a 2019 black Ram pickup, driven by 33-year-old Zachery Waldo, of Mount Dora, was heading east on S.R. A 2018 Toyota, driven by 44-year-old Christopher Smith, of Eustis, appears to have been traveling west on S.R. Smith and his front-seat passenger, 35-year-old Jessica Smith, died at the scene, according to officials. Detectives said he was traveling more than 60 mph over the posted speed limit prior to the crash. Waldo was able to evade arrest until Wednesday night when he was located in the Grand Island area, investigators said.

At some point during the 2020 Florida Collegiate Summer League Season, Leesburg will face Leesburg at Pat Thomas Stadium-Buddy Lowe Field. At some point during the 2020 Florida Collegiate Summer League Season, Leesburg will face Leesburg at Pat Thomas Stadium-Buddy Lowe Field. Officials with the Leesburg Lightning learned last Monday the FCSLs executive board approved a plan to move forward with the season and allow a second team in Leesburg. Theyll be two separate teams the Storm will not be a junior team to the Lightning. Rosters are being filled; Meier said the Lightning and Storm already have 12 to 14 players committed to play.

A Leesburg woman was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Ocala to four years in prison for aggravated identity theft and wire fraud. Officials said the 49-year-old woman was an administrative employee at several Florida medical clinics where she had access to medical records and patients Social Security numbers and birth dates. Hendricks sold patient information for cash and used the victims identities to defraud businesses. A year ago, officials said Hendricks sold stolen information to an undercover law enforcement officials. Federal agents searched Hendricks residence and vehicle and found 113 stolen identities from clinic patients.

LEESBURG Area Rotary Clubs are banding together to help refill the shelves of critically depleted food bank stores through a donation drive on Thursday. The drive runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at different locations in and around Leesburg and The Villages in an effort to help food banks recover their supplies exhausted in helping community members weather the COVID-19 pandemic. This is critical to help those who struggle to feed their families during this pandemic, Rotary Assistant Governor Larry Dolan said in a statement. Managed by the Leesburg Noon Club.Gloria Dei Lutheran, 130 South Lone Oak Drive. Each Rotary Club will distribute the food collected to various community food banks.

A Leesburg woman was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Ocala to four years in prison for aggravated identity theft and wire fraud. Officials said the 49-year-old woman was an administrative employee at several Florida medical clinics where she had access to medical records and patients Social Security numbers and birth dates. Hendricks sold patient information for cash and used the victims identities to defraud businesses. A year ago, officials said Hendricks sold stolen information to an undercover law enforcement officials. Federal agents searched Hendricks residence and vehicle and found 113 stolen identities from clinic patients.

LEESBURG Residents of The Plantation in Leesburg have taken on an initiative to show just how much they appreciate the medical professionals at the UF Health Leesburg Hospital. I take no credit.The initiative has married two causes: supporting a local restaurant and local health care workers. The Plantation is home to the open-to-the-public Plantation Oaks Restaurant which was struggling like many restaurants during the pandemic. Our waitresses also take the time to write thank you notes on each box delivered, Slattery said. It adds a nice touch and lets them know that we are still supporting them.And it doesnt end there for residents of the Plantation.

We saw some signs this week that things might be slowly getting back to normal. Initially, the Leesburg Partnership indicated it did not plan to reschedule Bikefest for this year,. Joe Shipes, CEO of the Leesburg Partnership, plans to finalize the date in September. Eve more intriguing is that it offers the possibility that Leesburg could play Leesburg this season in Leesburg. Our fans have always been a big part of the Leesburg Lightning.

Starting Monday, drive-up COVID-19 or antibody tests wont be offered at two previously open test sites: Adult Medicine of Lake County in Mount Dora and the Leesburg location in front of Pat Thomas Stadium. TAVARES Lake County is consolidating its coronavirus test sites and nixing the resident discount. Starting Monday, drive-up COVID-19 or antibody tests wont be offered at two previously open test sites: Adult Medicine of Lake County in Mount Dora and the Leesburg location in front of Pat Thomas Stadium. Previously, either test cost $20 for residents, with the county kicking in $65 of the cost. The data gathered is helping us to identify people needing treatment and isolation, as well as supporting the reopening of our local economy.

Joe Shipes, CEO of the Leesburg Partnership, announced Wednesday the 24th annual Bikefest, originally scheduled April, is tentatively rescheduled for Nov. 13-15 in downtown LeesburgLEESBURG Bikefest is back on. Joe Shipes, CEO of the Leesburg Partnership, announced Wednesday the 24th annual Leesburg Bikefest has been tentatively scheduled for Nov. 13-15. We are moving forward very cautiously.In March, when the Leesburg Partnership announced the festival had been canceled, Shipes indicated it would not be rescheduled this year. Theyre anxious to get something back on the books.A three-day event, Bikefest was originally scheduled for April 24-26 in downtown Leesburg. The event is advertised at the worlds largest three-day motorcycle festival and the citys largest annual event.

Could Leesburg face Leesburg this season in a Florida Collegiate Summer League game? LEESBURG Could Leesburg play Leesburg this season in the Florida Collegiate Summer League? The league will also offer a two-week training camp to afford players an opportunity to play themselves back into shape. Numerous other changes part of the leagues temporary restructuring plan for the 2020 season are planned, Foggi said. Lightning officials are pleased with the leagues decision to move forward with plans to play.

This pandemic has definitely pushed me into more of a public role, Miss Leesburg Kamryn Reynolds said. After my first two events as Miss Leesburg, I was hooked.LEESBURG Although many of the regularly scheduled appearances for Miss Leesburg Kamryn Reynolds were canceled amid the coronavirus pandemic, that hasnt stopped her from stepping into her role as the face of Leesburg. After my first two events as Miss Leesburg, I was hooked.Linda Watts, leader of the Miss Leesburg Scholarship Program, said she couldnt be more proud of Reynolds and how she has stepped up. Kamryn just means so much to us at Leesburg High School, he said. Not only is she Miss Leesburg, but she really represents Leesburg High School to the point that I consider her Miss Leesburg High School.

I'm looking to document the history of the Florida State League in Leesburg, said Meier, an admitted baseball historian and stat geek. The youngest former Leesburg player Angel Davila, who played here in 1968 will be 70 years old this year. Our high school team won a state championship and the Leesburg Lightning is one of the better teams in the FCSL. He had recorded every pitch, every plate appearance, every pitching change and pinch hitter in Lightning history. His stats tell the story of the Leesburg Lightning better than any other document out there.

After a short discussion resulting in further assurances from the college and a modestly amended agreement, Beacon College will be allowed to build a new pocket park on 1st St. for students and Leesburg residents alike. LEESBURG Leesburg City Commissioners approved an agreement with Beacon College Monday night to vacate a portion of 1st Street between Main and Magnolia so the college can build a public pocket park in its place. It also asked that a sign be placed at the park letting Leesburg residents know that it is open to the public. Christian said he may vote no because he felt Leesburg residents werent being invited well enough to use the existing pocket park, the Durand Garden. And though he didnt agree with Christians assessment that the residents of Leesburg were under-using the first pocket park because they werent sure it was public, he agreed to put a sign in the park quickly.

He then allegedly fired at the man through the door before walking inside. TAVARES An Astatula man was arrested in Leesburg Friday after allegedly shooting a man in the wrist during a burglary nearly two weeks before. The victim shot back with a BB gun and then attempted to wrestle the gun out of Chaudoins hands, he told police, but was shot in the wrist during the struggle. He stole the truck from Umatilla and eventually parked it in Leesburg, where he was found in the drivers seat. Chaudoin, who has been arrested multiple times for various drug offenses and other burglaries, was charged with armed burglary, aggravated battery and grand theft auto.

LEESBURG For the last several weeks, Leesburg businesses have been receiving some extra orders from residents who want to send gifts to places like UF Health Leesburg Hospital and the Leesburg Police Department. We really appreciate everyone who is supporting us during this time, but for us, its about supporting local businesses, Iozzi said. A local Leesburg resident that wants to be anonymous donated 52 dozen donuts that was delivered last Wednesday to the Leesburg hospital. Miss Daisys has also been sending flowers to local businesses, the Leesburg Police Department and the Leesburg Fire Department, thanking them for their services and support. Weve seen a lot more support for small, local businesses, Tucker said.

Saturday, in front of Blooms Baking House in Leesburg, the Easter Bunny and a few of his friends waved at passing motorists. LEESBURG It was an Easter parade of a different kind in the changing landscape brought about by the coronavirus. Saturday, in front of Blooms Baking House in Leesburg, the Easter Bunny and a few of his friends waved at passing motorists. I hated to see the corona virus take one more thing away, said Cheryl Bloom, the owner of Blooms Baking House and Restaurant. She said every year she takes her kids to see the Easter Bunny and get photos taken so they can see how they grow from year to year.

Virtual Scavenger HuntThe Lake Square Mall in Leesburg is hosting a virtual scavenger hunt this weekend through their Facebook page. Easter Bunny Drive-byThe Easter Bunny will be visiting Blooms Baking House, 610 W Main Street in Leesburg, on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon for a special guest appearance, drive-by style. Families are invited to drive-by to honk and wave to the Easter Bunny, but are asked to not get out of their cars. Easter in a BoxGrace City Church, 32441 CR 437 in Sorrento, is handing out boxes of Easter activities this Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, or until boxes run out, to be opened on Sunday during their online Easter program. This special service will bring everyone together in a unique social distancing way while still enjoying the message of hope with live music.

City of Leesburg offficials announced recently that customers of Leesburg Electric will see a reduction of up to 9% on their bills for May and June. LEESBURG Customers of Leesburg Electric will soon see a reduction in their electric bills. Beginning May 1, Leesburg Electric will reduce its Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) charge to $0.00 per Kilowatt Hour (kWH). The reduction is a welcome relief for many utility customers who are struggling financially during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The decision by Leesburg Electric follows a recent announcement by the city of Mount Dora that customers of its electric utility would begin seeing a reduction on their bills, as well.

Page-Theus of Leesburg and other funeral homes are abiding by state rules limiting crowds to 10 or fewer people. Page-Theus of Leesburg and other funeral homes are abiding by state rules limiting crowds to 10 or fewer people. The buzz word among funeral directors these days is creative, including at Beyers Funeral Home, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Funeral homes are setting up webcasting on the internet as one option. Like other businesses, funeral homes are also having some staffers work from home, and asking families to communicate with email and electronic signing.

The first time it was in downtown Tavares and now I am doing it again in downtown Leesburg. Please take note restaurant operations already have and/or are forced to comply with stricter food handling guidelines long before this health pandemic. If you can afford one or two meals at a local restaurant and one of them is a family-owned restaurant then, by all means, support them. Buy as you normally would; even if there is a shutdown, you will be able to go out and get food. If you fell ill, the last thing you would want to do is cook, thats when that $25 gift card from your local restaurant becomes a power move on your part.

The Leesburg-based full-service marketing company has announced an open-invitation for students to enter a contest to produce a public service announcement educating viewers on how to stay healthy and cope during the COVID-19 pandemic. LEESBURG With Lake County students forced into an extended break from school, Red Apples Media announced a plan to help them tap into their pent-up creativity. The Leesburg-based full-service marketing company has announced an open-invitation for students to enter a contest to produce a public service announcement educating viewers on how to stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. This generation tends to be pretty savvy when it comes to using their mobile devices, Red Apples Media President Marc Robertz-Schwartz said. Students must upload their completed video PSAs to YouTube or VIMEO and email the link to info@RedApplesMedia.com in order to compete.

There, volunteers and other interested citizens will get the full scoop on Rolling Thunder's visit to Leesburg May 22-24, which includes the presence of both the Vietnam Veterans' Wall and the Global War on Terrorism Wall. Special guests at the information huddle Thursday include our local Patriot Guard Riders, who will also take part in the May commemoration. SAVED ROUNDS- Catching the George Washington's Birthday Parade in my hometown of Eustis last month, one of the most striking and poignant images was of Kathleen Wooster, decked out in a WWII uniform. Like Kathleen Wooster, both are children of Army veterans. Join Keith Friday mornings on 1410 AM with station manager James Floyd and Air Force Vietnam veteran Bob Peters.

When police entered, according to a Leesburg arrest affidavit, they saw the girl partially naked and covering herself with bed sheets, an opened bottle of vodka and several unopened and opened condoms. LEESBURG A Leesburg man was arrested Sunday morning at a motel in Leesburg where police say they found him and a partially nude, possibly drunk 17-year-old girl. Police say Nike Shawn Guilford, 29, was standing outside the motel room and drinking a beer when they arrived for a wellness check on the teen, whose mother claimed she was drunk and possibly on narcotics in the mans room. The girl was reportedly uncooperative with police and had to be sedated before she was taken to a hospital for treatment. Guilford was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and placed in the Lake County Jail on a $100,000 bond.

LEESBURG Leesburgs new Wawa was the site of a vicious attack last week in which police say a man, in front of several witnesses, beat another man until he was bleeding and attempted to bite a police officer after his arrest. When another customer intervened, Shirley reportedly stopped before knocking her out of the way and resuming his attack. He only stopped when another customer, having repeatedly told Shirley to stop his attack, drew a gun and demanded he quit. Shirley was charged with aggravated battery causing bodily harm, a charge of simple battery for shoving the second person, an trespassing for his alleged crimes at the Wawa. Shirley allegedly pushed an officer into a wall and attempted to bite him, resulting in a charge of battery against a law enforcement officer.

The day-long event, which serves as a prelude to Leesburg Art Fest a week later, will feature students from Leesburg, Umatilla, Eustis and Tavares High Schools, who will participate in eight artistic challenges. LEESBURG Teams from four Lake County high schools will compete in the second Leesburg Art Olympics on Saturday. The day-long event, which serves as a prelude to Leesburg ArtFest a week later, will feature students from Leesburg, Umatilla, Eustis and Tavares High Schools, who will participate in eight artistic challenges, including transforming trash into fashion, making pottery and creating a product and a logo for a fictitious company. The students creations will go on display at the Leesburg center for the Arts during the 43rd annual Leesburg ArtFest on March 14-15. More information about the artfest can be found on the festival website, www.LeesburgArtFest.com.

EUSTIS Its prom season and with that comes the worry most girls face in finding and paying for the perfect dress, shoes, accessories, jewelry and up-dos. That, however, is where the Abracadabra Foundation comes in. The non-profit organization with a mission to motivate, inspire and enable low income high school girls in Lake County is hosting Prom Project 2020 on Saturday. All the girls will also be given glam bags with toiletries, gift cards and goodies, plus a voucher to pay for their prom tickets. Program sponsors include Mount Doras Chik fil-A, Insight Credit Union and Sonnys BBQ, Lake Sumter State College, Lake Tech, Kohls, the Charmettes of Lake County and other civic organizations that step up throughout the year.

And during that span, area programs delivered six state championships Leesburgs boys team won titles in 2011, 2017 and 2018; Wildwoods girls earned back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018; and, the Wildwood boys won it all in 2018. Marcus Niblack, in his final game at Wildwood, led all scorers with 27 points and Buster Corbin added nine. Ricardo Wright, in his final game with the Buffalo, led all scorers with 28 points. OCP will host Ocoee Central Florida Christian Academy in Fridays regional championship game. Its losses were to CFCA in the District 10 championship game and OCP.

My sister, Alexandra, told me I shouldnt leave the school just yet to make sure the restaurant is sustainable so she would help me out. Montanez begins her day in the restaurant preparing the food before heading off to school, then returns to help clean up after school is out. Because it has been successful thus far, she hopes to fully transition to the restaurant at the end of the school year. I tell people this isnt a restaurant, its my dream, Montanez said. Lunch includes a variety of signature sandwiches including their most popular Bori-Burger, which features a burger topped with roasted pulled pork, chicken, potato sticks, Bori sauce, lettuce and mayo for $7.50.

At Melon Patch Theatre in Leesburg, Executive Director Dustin Lavine reached out on social media for help on an unexpected expense involving an unfortunate clash between an old wood floor and tap shoes. At Melon Patch Theatre in Leesburg, Executive Director Dustin Lavine reached out on social media for help on an unexpected expense involving an unfortunate clash between an old wood floor and tap shoes. I saw the post on Facebook and really felt like we should help, teacher and educational leader Nikki Duslak said. Ill never forget, Melon Patch loaned me a broom that lit on fire, which the kids just thought that was the coolest thing ever. This is an instance of two nonprofit art programs can come together to help each other, Lavine said.

Leesburg scored twice in the fifth inning and Austin Wehr tossed a complete game on Monday in the Yellow Jackets 4-3 win against Tavares. With the win, Leesburg improved to 1-1 on the season, while Tavares fell to 2-2. Next up for Tavares is Lake Minneola at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Fred Stover Sports complex in Tavares. Hillsborough scored in five different innings, including a seven-run fifth, in a 12-10 win. Next up for LSSC is Polk State College at 3 p.m. Wednesday at the LSSC baseball complex in Leesburg.

The Yellow Jackets, which won back-to-back Class 6A state championships in 2017 and 2018, is one of four area teams hitting the floor on Tuesday in regional-round games. Our kids showed some maturity and were ready for another tough game in the regional semifinals.Campbell believes the Yellow Jackets are the underdogs heading into Tuesdays game. This will be the first regional road game for Wildwood since the 2018 Region 4 title game at Bell; Wildwood won that game 59-45. Class 5A-Region 2Leesburg at SebringSebring is averaging 68.1 points per game this season, while Leesburg is scoring 57.7. The Yellow Jackets are 1-3, with its lone win coming against Auburndale, while Sebring is 2-2, with both wins coming against Auburndale.

Not since 2003, in fact, when Eustis won the Class 3A state title has a local program raised the state championship trophy. The Bulldogs lost that contest 2-0 and Hillsborough went on to win the state title. Leesburg (1970, 1971, 1977, 1983, 1985) leads the way with five Final Four appearances, including one state title. In addition, five other area programs advanced to the state championship game in their respective classifications, only to end up as runners-up. Montverde Academy was the last area team to reach a state championship game, when it advanced to the Class 2A title.

The 118th annual Georgefest festival in downtown Eustis has an entire weekend line up in honor our nations first president, appropriately themed A National Treasure, complete with a parade, carnival and fireworks. Heres whats on tap:Georgefest CarnivalThe Georgefest carnival begins tonight in downtown Eustis with a special $20 armband deal, good for tonight only. Details: https://www.facebook.com/LakeCountyBF/Georgefest FireworksFriday night, make sure to gaze up into the sky as the annual Georgefest fireworks show rains red, white and blue over Lake Eustis beginning at 9 p.m. Details: https://www.facebook.com/LoveWeekCFL2020 Dog JogThe Dog Jog is a beloved tradition for Georgefest, where the community gets to show off their patriotic pups. Details: www.FloridaBassNation.comFree Pancakes and Ice CreamStart off the final day of Georgefest right with free pancakes.

I am on the side that says a good gumbo needs both and its typically made with seafood, chicken, and sausage. black pepper tsp. Remove chicken from pan. Stir flour until a dark brown roux is formed. Once the flour is brown stir in gumbo vegetable mix for another 3-5minutes to allow vegetables to heat slightly.