My Sanford Seminole Magazine - Spring26

Building Dreams in Sanford: Inside Preserve at Deer Lakes

BY JENNIFER LUCE

For Lisa Steiner, a Senior Sales Consultant with K. Hovnanian Homes, homebuilding isn’t just a career, it’s part of her story. Raised in the industry with a father as a builder, she’s spent over 30 years helping families find the perfect home. What inspires her? “It’s the excitement of homeowners at closing and seeing it all come to fruition,” she shares. “Being part of that moment and witnessing their dreams become reality is why I love what I do.”

That passion is reflected in K. Hovnanian Homes’ newest Sanford community, Preserve at Deer Lakes, a gated, private enclave designed for luxury and livability. With just 31 homesites, the community offers a rare combination of space, privacy, and thoughtful design. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Wekiva River Preserve and free from rear neighbors, it creates a park-like setting that feels tucked away, yet remains close to everything Sanford has to offer.

The homes are designed with today’s buyers in mind. Offering up to five bedrooms and over 4,900 square feet, they appeal to a wide range of homeowners: from growing families needing extra space to empty nesters looking to downsize without sacrificing comfort. With access to top-rated schools and a central location near major roadways, the community balances beauty with practicality. “We take the time to really understand our buyers,” Lisa explains. “We help them find a home that becomes the foundation for their life, their memories, and their future.”

K. Hovnanian’s innovative “Looks” design program simplifies the personalization process. Buyers can choose from professionally curated interior styles, complete with cohesive finishes and color palettes. “People love it because we do it all right here,” Lisa says. “It takes the guesswork out and gives buyers flexibility to design a home they’ll enjoy living in.”

Beyond the homes, the lifestyle is equally compelling. As a gated community, Preserve at Deer Lakes offers an added level of security and exclusivity that today’s buyers increasingly value, along with its mature landscaping and intimate neighborhood feel. Residents enjoy easy access to Lake Monroe, the St. Johns River, nearby parks, and Sanford’s vibrant downtown. From outdoor recreation to dining and entertainment, everything is just minutes away.

Having lived in Seminole County for 26 years, Lisa has witnessed Sanford’s transformation firsthand. The city continues to attract homeowners looking for both value and lifestyle and that momentum is only growing. With ongoing residential and commercial development throughout Seminole County, the area is experiencing a surge in demand from buyers seeking well-located, thoughtfully designed communities. Preserve at Deer Lakes is a reflection of that growth, offering a boutique, high-quality neighborhood that aligns with the county’s vision for smart, sustainable expansion while maintaining the charm that makes Sanford so appealing.

Its central location offers the best of Florida living, with just about 45 minutes to famous attractions like Disney and under an hour in the opposite direction to some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches.

That balance aligns perfectly with K. Hovnanian Homes’ legacy. With more than 65 years in business and leadership still rooted in the founding family, the company combines experience with a forward-thinking approach. With multiple generations actively involved, there is a strong commitment to staying hands-on, on-trend, and connected to what buyers want most.

“For anyone considering a move, Sanford has it all,” Lisa says. “Witnessing the growth has been incredible! The downtown has blossomed and there’s something here for everyone. Experiencing it now through my granddaughter makes it even more special.”

At Preserve at Deer Lakes, that vision is becoming a reality for families ready to find a place they can truly call home. n

Florida’s #1 ER

INSURANCE LAND & ASSOCIATES:

42 YEARS OF PROTECTING CENTRAL FLORIDA

BY DANIELLA HUME

For more than four decades, Insurance Land & Associates has helped families, businesses, and communities across Central Florida protect what matters most. What began as a small local agency has grown into a multi-location company serving clients throughout the region, while staying true to the values that built it.

Insurance Land was founded in 1984 by Randy Siegel, who opened the company’s first office in downtown DeLand with a clear vision: build a locally rooted agency focused on strong customer relationships, competitive rates, and client education.

That vision expanded with a second office in downtown Sanford in 1987, establishing Insurance Land as a growing presence in Central Florida.

In the early years, agents relied on printed rate books to calculate premiums by hand, a process that could take hours. But Randy quickly recognized the industry was changing.

In the mid-1980s, a company demonstrated a new computer system that could compare insurance rates electronically.

“The computer compared all five insurance companies at once,” Randy recalls. “In seconds, it came back with a lower rate than the one we had spent time calculating by hand.”

Recognizing the shift, Insurance Land became one of the first agencies in Florida to adopt an online insurance management system, streamlining the quoting process and improving service.

Over the past 42 years, the company has grown to serve individuals, families, and businesses across a wide range of coverage needs. The agency has insured large organizations such as hospitality resorts and developed specialized niches, including charter schools throughout Florida.

Yet even as the company expanded, its commitment to service remained constant. “Insurance isn’t just about selling a policy,” Randy explains. “It’s about protecting our clients when the unexpected happens.”

Today, the company’s leadership reflects its family roots. Randy’s wife, Tina Siegel, and stepdaughter, Kylee Bjorkland, play key roles in guiding the organization. Kylee serves as Managing Supervisor over all locations and “hopes to continue to grow the company for another 42 years.”

Tina emphasizes the importance of workplace culture. “When employees enjoy coming to work and feel supported, that energy carries over to the way we serve our clients,” she says. That focus has created a workplace where many employees have stayed for decades, supported by ongoing training and a strong leadership structure.

As Florida grows, so do the challenges within the insurance industry. From storm risks to changing regulations, navigating coverage can be complex. Insurance Land continues to adapt

by investing in technology that allows the agency to compare policies to their over 200 carriers quickly, helping clients find competitive options and better understand their coverage. At the same time, the company remains deeply connected to the communities it serves, supporting local organizations, youth sports

teams, and community events. “Being part of the community shapes the way we serve our clients,” Randy says.

Looking ahead, Insurance Land remains focused on growth, innovation, and continued service to Central Florida. Kylee is already planning additional locations while supporting a growing team and strengthening carrier partnerships. At the same time, she continues to fuel her passion for the industry and build new relationships through her involvement with the Young Agents Council (YAC).

After 42 years, the company remains committed to its founding mission: providing trusted guidance, exceptional service, and peace of mind when it matters most. n

Daniella Hume, the owner of Mastropieces Productions, is a versatile creative professional specializing in writing, photography, digital media production, social media management, and video creation. With a deep passion for her community, Daniella's work aims to inspire and uplift her audience while celebrating the beauty and vibrancy of the people and places around her. Her published work can be found throughout Central Florida and beyond, showcasing her commitment to the Sunshine State and dedication to sharing a positive message.

Dear Readers,

Welcome to one of the most beautiful seasons of the year!

There is something so special about it...the sunshine, the energy in our community, and the joy of seeing families and children enjoying these brighter days. It is also a time that invites us to celebrate love, gratitude, and the women who shape our lives in so many ways.

As we honor Mother’s Day, this edition carries a very personal meaning for me. It is my privilege to share a photo of my late mother, Rafaela, whose memory and example continue to guide me every day. From her, I learned integrity, grace, and a deep respect for hard work—values that remain with me in both my personal and professional life.

To all mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and every woman who gives love and care, this celebration is for you.

In this beautiful and sunny edition, we bring you a variety of stories designed to inspire and inform. You’ll find great real estate opportunities, ideas for family fun, and recommendations focused on beauty and health. We are also proud to highlight The Investor’s Guide to Seminole County: Cities Worth Watching, offering valuable insight into the growth and potential of our region, and we share where to enjoy outdoor dining in Downtown Sanford, one of the simple pleasures of this season.

On our cover, we celebrate the 42-year legacy of Insurance Land, which has built strong roots in this community and in Volusia County.

This year is special for us as we celebrate the 12th anniversary of My Sanford Seminole Magazine and the 10th anniversary of Best of Sanford, a pioneering recognition that honors the small businesses, leaders, organizations, and industries that help move our community forward every day.

Thank you for reading, for supporting local businesses, and for being part of our journey. It is always a privilege to bring you stories that reflect the heart of Sanford.

Stay tuned for our Best of Sanford 2026 survey on o ur social media platforms.

Perla is the CEO and President of My Sanford Magazine LLC, and the founder, editor-in-chief, and publisher of My Sanford Seminole Magazine and My Deltona Magazine. Passionate about connecting communities, she created these publications to celebrate diversity, culture, tourism, and local pride, a vision she has proudly brought to life. She is also the creator of the Best of Sanford Awards, honoring the businesses and individuals who help the community thrive.

ESTABLISHED 2014

VOLUME 11, ISSUE 2 SPRING 2026 | QUARTERLY

BILINGUAL MAGAZINE www.MySanfordMagazine.com

This Issue was published by MY SANFORD MAGAZINE LLC, with project management by:

Editor in Chief & Founder Perla Bello-Crosby

Managing Editor

Jennifer Luce

Art Director Renée Blair

Executive Projects Director Brian R. Ambrosini

Social Media & Marketing Director Daniella Hume

Web Project Manager MedRed Solutions

Photographers

Daniella Hume, Mastropieces Productions

Andrew van Tilborgh

Cover Photography

Daniella Hume, Mastropieces Productions

Contributors

Amber Clore

Perla Bello-Crosby

Victoria Huggins

Daniella Hume

Leon Konieczny

Jennifer Luce

Claudia Mundlos

Allison Martinousvan Tilborgh

My Sanford Magazine disclaims all liability for any and all advertisements, promotions, articles, and other affiliated content contained within this publication. The opinions of the authors are those alone. We do not accept any liability for information or advice provided by any advertiser, sponsor, or associated business provided in this magazine.

Perla applied her tourism destination experience by founding the Sanford Tourism Office, which grew into Sanford Main Street. Earlier, she served her native country in Italy, rising from Director of Tourism to Diplomat Minister, Chief of Economic Development, and Chargé d'Affaires ad interim at the Embassy in Rome. PROUD PARTNER

Randy and Tina Siegel and daughter Kylee Bjorkland, owners of Insurance Land & Associates.

Photo: Daniella Hume, Mastropieces

Productions

ADVERTISING: 407-801-3432 • editor@mysanfordmagazine.com

Spring was Made for OUTDOOR DINING

BY LEON KONIECZNY

…. And Downtown Sanford (DTS) absolutely delivers. Nearly every restaurant in DTS offers some form of outdoor seating—whether it is tucked under an awning, shaded by a second story overhang, or simply set along the sidewalk beneath colorful umbrellas. When the weather turns warm and breezy, DTS becomes one big invitation to dine al fresco.

Two of the standout spots, in my opinion, are Hollerbach’s German Restaurant and The Breezeway Both feature permanently covered outdoor dining areas and sit just steps from Magnolia Square, a lively hub perfect for people watching. There is something special about enjoying a meal or a drink while the world strolls by. Virtually all outdoor patios in DTS are dog friendly too, which is a bonus for anyone who likes to bring their four legged companions along.

A trio of “hybrid outdoor” venues also deserves a shout out: The Station, Dees Brothers Brewery, and Brewlando. Each have garage style doors that open wide on nice days, blending the comfort of indoor seating with the energy of the street, so you can enjoy the fresh air without worrying about a passing sprinkle or chasing shade on a sunny afternoon. All three also offer umbrella topped outdoor tables as well, so your furry friends can join you.

Other popular outdoor dining choices include Christo’s, The Colonial Room, and Buster’s Sanford, all of which fill up quickly when the weather cooperates. Another gem right on Lake Monroe is St. John’s River Steak & Seafood. Not only do they have outdoor tables, their indoor dining room has huge, screened patio doors that can be opened during nice weather. Like many DTS spots, these patios also welcome dogs, making them great options for pet loving diners.

Of course, this is just the beginning. DTS is packed with cafés, restaurants, and bars that offer outdoor seating, far too many to list them each individually. Wander along First Street, Second Street, and Sanford Avenue and you will find an abundance of choices. You could eat outside every day of the week and never repeat a restaurant. Downtown Sanford brings together flavor, atmosphere, and community in a way that invites everyone to pull up a chair and stay awhile! n

Leon Konieczny is a local Central Florida foodie and food blogger who’s been writing about Sanford and Seminole County area “good eats” restaurants for the past twelve years. He’s big into eating at local mom ‘n’ pop shops where high-quality ingredients, love, and a dose of home cooking make all the difference. While he occasionally eats at the big chains, he claims it’s only to remind him where a real quality dining experience lurks — in the small restaurants which are the heart and soul of every neighborhood and community.

Home of the World’s Best Beers

With over 35 beers on drafts, Buster’s is home to one of Central Florida’s best imported beer selections, with some of the world’s best beers from the Trappist breweries of Belgium to the shores of Ireland, France, Spain, Germany and beyond. We also have an amazing cocktail selection, so come by soon!

Group Reservations & Private Parties

Whether it’s a wedding, rehearsal dinner, birthday party, baby shower, office function or any other special event, we’ll do our best to accommodate your desired date and any requests you may have to make your party/celebration memorable.

BY CLAUDIA MUNDLOS

STHE INVESTOR’S GUIDE

CITIES WORTH

eminole County has quietly become one of the most attractive real estate markets in Central Florida. With strong schools, convenient access to Orlando, growing job centers, and desirable communities, the area continues to attract both homeowners and real estate investors.

While nearby markets such as Orlando have experienced explosive growth and rising home prices, Seminole County offers a more balanced mix of opportunity, stability, and long-term appreciation potential.

If you’re considering investing in the area, here are some of the cities in Seminole County that investors are keeping a close eye on.

Sanford: Historic Charm and Lifestyle Appeal

Sanford has transformed dramatically over the past decade and is now one of the most exciting places in Seminole County.

The historic downtown district, located along Lake Monroe, has become a destination for restaurants, breweries, festivals, and community events. With its walkable streets, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture and events, Sanford attracts both residents and visitors.

For investors, the city offers several opportunities: Historic homes with renovation potential Strong demand for rentals near downtown Properties near Sanford International Airport

• Walkable neighborhoods with lifestyle appeal

Sanford also benefits from SunRail access, making it convenient for commuters traveling to Orlando. As the city continues to grow and attract new businesses, many investors consider Sanford a long-term appreciation market.

Lake Mary: Corporate Hub with Stable Demand

Lake Mary, particularly International Parkway, is known as Seminole County’s corporate center. Major employers and corporate headquarters like AAA have made this area a hub for professionals working in technology, finance, and business services.

Because of its strong job base, reputation for quality schools and well-maintained neighbor-

hoods, Lake Mary has consistent demand from renters and buyers alike.

For investors, Lake Mary tends to attract:

Long-term tenants

Corporate relocations

Families seeking top-rated schools

While home prices can be higher compared to other Seminole County cities, the area offers stability and reliable appreciation.

Altamonte Springs: A Strong Commercial and Lifestyle Hub

Altamonte Springs stands out as one of Seminole County’s most established commercial centers. With major retail anchors like the Altamonte Mall, a wide mix of restaurants, and active business corridors, the city offers investors a market supported by convenience, visibility, and steady residential demand. Its central location, strong amenities, and continued redevelopment activity make it attractive for both residents and investors looking for stability and long-term value.

TO SEMINOLE COUNTY:

WORTH WATCHING

Investors may find opportunities in Altamonte Springs through:

• Strong rental demand driven by shopping, dining, and major employment corridors

Central location with quick access to I-4, making it ideal for commuters

A mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes at varying price points

• Ongoing redevelopment and revitalization adding to long-term appeal

Oviedo: Family-Friendly Growth

Oviedo continues to grow as one of the most desirable suburbs in Seminole County.

Known for its excellent schools, parks, and family-oriented communities, the city has become a popular choice for families looking for a calmer lifestyle while still being close to Orlando and the University of Central Florida.

Investors often look to Oviedo for:

• Single-family rental homes

Long-term tenants

Stable appreciation in established neighborhoods

The combination of strong schools and proximity to UCF helps maintain steady housing demand.

Longwood: Hidden Value in Established Neighborhoods

Longwood is one of Seminole County’s older communities, which means it offers mature neighborhoods, larger lots, and a mix of housing styles.

For investors, Longwood can present interesting opportunities because home prices can sometimes be more accessible compared to Lake Mary or Oviedo. Some areas offer strong potential for value-adding improvements through renovations and sometimes even simple updates.

Investors may find opportunities in Longwood through:

More affordable purchase prices compared to nearby cities like Lake Mary and Oviedo

• Established neighborhoods with mature trees and larger lots

Homes with renovation or update potential that can add value

For investors willing to look beyond the newest developments, Longwood can offer solid opportunities to add value and build long-term appreciation.

Casselberry: Entry-Level Investment Opportunities

Casselberry is often overlooked, but that’s exactly what makes it so interesting!

Compared to other Seminole County cities, Casselberry can offer more affordable entry points, especially for new real estate investors looking to purchase rental properties.

The city has also invested heavily in parks, trails, and public spaces in recent years, improving quality of life and attracting new residents.

For investors, Casselberry may offer:

Lower purchase prices

Strong rental demand

Opportunities for first-time investors

A Market with Long-Term Potential

Seminole County continues to attract buyers who want access to Orlando’s job market while enjoying more relaxed suburban communities with strong schools and great amenities.

For investors, the key is understanding the unique strengths of each city and matching those with the right investment strategy.

Whether you’re looking for long-term rentals, appreciation potential, or entry-level investment opportunities, Seminole County offers a variety of markets worth exploring! n

— Madison

SANFORD TO PUNTA CANA Your Perfect Escape to

Paradise

BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY

There are destinations that need no introduction… and Punta Cana is one of them.

Located on the eastern side of the Dominican Republic, this region has become one of the most desired destinations in the Caribbean, where turquoise waters and white sand beaches create an experience that makes you fall in love at first sight.

As a Dominican, I first came to know Punta Cana, Bávaro, and Cabeza de Toro in my twenties, when I visited the area with friends to fish for the famous blue marlin, at the very beginning of the region’s development. That early connection is part of why this destination has remained so special to me over the years.

For our community, getting to paradise is now easier than ever. Orlando Sanford International Airport offers a more relaxed and convenient travel experience, free from the long walks and hectic pace of larger airports, allowing your journey to begin with ease and comfort from the moment you arrive.

And when you land in Punta Cana, the experience continues. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), recognized as one of the

best airports in the Caribbean, welcomes millions of travelers each year with its openair design surrounded by palm trees, setting the tone for what awaits beyond. It even features a pool in its VIP lounge, transforming wait time into a memorable part of the experience.

Did You Know?

At Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), travelers can relax by a pool in the VIP lounge, enjoying the Caribbean atmosphere right up until boarding. Entry may require a fee or special access.

Punta Cana offers more than 40 miles of coastline where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea, creating beautiful views of clear water and white sandy beaches. From the lively feel of Bávaro Beach to the beauty of Juanillo in Cap Cana and the natural charm of Macao, each beach has its own personality.

The region is also home to world-class all-inclusive resorts, entertainment, golf courses, excursions, and water sports, offering sun-filled days and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for individuals, groups of friends, and families.

Nearby, in the city of Higüey, stands the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, one of the Dominican Republic’s most important religious and cultural landmarks. For many visitors, it is an important stop, much like the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico or the Vatican, where faith, history, and identity come together. As a Christian, I feel a special connection to this sacred place, and for me it adds another layer of meaning to the Punta Cana experience.

With Arajet now offering direct flights to Punta Cana three times a week at affordable prices, it’s easier than ever for our community to plan a family vacation or a getaway with friends.

For our community, paradise no longer feels far away… it begins right here in Sanford. n

Travel Notes

AIRPORT

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the busiest airport in the Dominican Republic and one of the leading gateways in the Caribbean, recognized among the best in the region in 2026.

DIRECT FLIGHTS

Travelers from Central Florida can enjoy direct flights from Orlando Sanford International Airport to Punta Cana, making this tropical escape easier and more accessible than ever.

WHAT TO ENOY

Bávaro Beach • Juanillo • Macao • Golf • Water sports • All-inclusive resorts • Local cuisine Merengue & nightlife • Tours • Shopping & more!

BEST TIME TO GO

Punta Cana is a great year-round destination, with warm breezes and sunny days in almost every season.

Live the life you deserve in the best of the Caribbean, surrounded by sun, beach, and sand. Contact our team to explore investment opportunities!

www.hyjrealestaterd.com Vive la vida que mereces en lo mejor del Caribe, rodeado de sol, playa y arena. ¡Contácta a nuestro equipo para explorar oportunidades de inversión!

AMY LOCKHART Leadership Committed to Community

BY PERLA BELLO-CROSBY

Amy Lockhart leads with conviction, faith, and a deep connection to the community she serves. As a Seminole County Commissioner, her leadership is shaped not only by years of public service, but by her role as a wife, a mother, and a neighbor who believes that understanding people is the foundation of good leadership.

In this edition of our Seminole Women Leaders Series, Amy shares the personal experiences, values, and moments that continue to guide her journey in Seminole County.

Q: Family often shapes who we become. Can you share a little about your family and how they continue to influence and support you today?

“I am blessed to still have both of my parents. At 91 and 83, they are two of my biggest cheerleaders. I could never have dreamed of serving our community in so many ways without the support of my husband of 32 years and our kids. Having a family that loves and encourages each other through the best and worst days is irreplaceable.”

Q: As Mother’s Day approaches, how has your perspective on motherhood evolved over the years?

“We are a long way from pre-school, practice, and proms, and in some ways, I really miss those days. Now, we are planning weddings and talking about work, and it’s such a great new season of life. All the building blocks that we

hoped to instill early on, faith, hard work, caring for our community, we now get to see as they grow and build their own lives.”

Q: Is there a moment as a mother that deeply impacted how you see the world or lead today?

“Without question, Trayvon Martin. My son was playing Sanford Babe Ruth Baseball, and my husband was a volunteer coach when Trayvon was shot just a couple of miles from Chase Park. As a mother, watching how deeply our community was hurting left a lasting impact on me. I also saw strong leaders from every background come together to keep peace and build unity, and I learned so much from that experience. It shaped how I lead to this day.”

Q: What are some of the simple things in your life that bring you joy and keep you grounded?

“My faith is by far the most important piece of my life that keeps me grounded. Believing

that God has a plan for my life and my family brings such peace and comfort and gives me the freedom to try hard things, because ultimately, it’s all His.

I love spending time in my kitchen garden. I always plant too much of everything and wind up giving a lot away, but it’s so rewarding to grow your own food. I think it’s incredibly important to know how to grow something, even if it’s just one thing.

When I can’t be outside, I enjoy researching genealogy. It’s something I’ve been doing for more than 30 years. It took almost a decade, but I was able to trace my family back to ancestors who fought in the American Revolution. Their sacrifices are incredibly inspiring.”

Q: Leadership comes with many responsibilities. How do you balance public service with your personal life?

“You don’t. There is no such thing as balance. Different seasons of our lives demand different things, and there is no way to be all things to all people all the time. I spin many plates, and I would be lying if I said I didn’t drop one occasionally.”

Q: What continues to fuel your passion and commitment to Seminole County?

“Getting to truly know my neighbors and loving them where they are, is a gift. We are such a diverse and wonderful community. You can’t properly serve a community you don’t know and love.

It’s not uncommon for me to take hours running errands because I stop to talk with people about their concerns or ideas. I joke that I do my best work in the produce department, but it’s true.

Q: What advice would you offer to other women considering leadership roles?

“Be very selective about who you let speak into your life. Surround yourself with true friends who genuinely care about you and your family and are not afraid to tell you when you’re wrong. Having a group of ‘yes people’ may feel supportive, but real friends will hold you accountable just as much as they cheer you on.”

Q: When you reflect on your journey, what do you hope people remember about your story?

“My story is still being written. It’s full of amazing people who have shaped my worldview and helped me become a better version of myself. I never want to become complacent or feel like I’ve accomplished everything I set out to do.

I love learning new things and facing new challenges. My hope is that people see me as someone who strives for the very best outcomes for everyone, so that Seminole County continues to be the best place to raise a family, start a career, and serve others.” n

SANFORD GOLF CART GURUS:

Community, Carts, Family & Fun

BY VICTORIA HUGGINS

SSanford has long been celebrated for its historic downtown and scenic waterfront, but in recent years, it has taken on a new identity as a thriving golf cart destination. Since the Sanford City Commission established a designated golf cart zone in 2013, this unique lifestyle has steadily gained momentum, with more than 900 registered carts now cruising the city’s streets. What began as a practical way to get around has evolved into something much bigger: a defining piece of Sanford’s culture.

Sanford resident Benny Crosby remembers how early that shift began. “When we moved to Sanford in 2011, I called the police department to ask if we could bring our golf cart. At the time, the answer was ‘not yet,’ but they told me they were sure it would be allowed in the future. We brought it anyway, and our tag is No. 11, so we were among the first golf carts in the Historic District. It has been wonderful to watch this become such a special part of Sanford’s lifestyle.”

At the heart of this movement is the Sanford Golf Cart Gurus, a community-driven group that reflects the city’s vibrant and connected spirit. Open to residents, cart owners, and anyone curious to join the fun, the Gurus are about far more than just golf carts. As member Victoria Huggins puts it, “We improve and amplify everything Sanford. We are community, cart, family, and fun.”

Since forming shortly after the ordinance passed, the Gurus have become woven into the fabric of local life. From parades and festivals to charity events and neighborhood cleanups, their presence is both visible and meaningful. Their signature event, the Sanford Golf Cart Gurus Amazing Race, held in partnership with Sanford Porchfest, has become a beloved tradition, bringing residents together for a citywide adventure filled with challenges, laughter, and local pride.

The group also hosts regular gatherings, including Golden Hour sunset rides and weekly meetups that keep the community connected year-round. Along

Upcoming & Ongoing Events

Saturday, June 13th

Sanford Golf Cart Gurus Amazing Race

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind community adventure filled with fun, laughter, and just the right amount of friendly competition. Expect games, challenges, puzzles, and surprises, all while exploring the city we love: Sanford!

July 24–26, 2026

#SanfordLifestyleCartFest 2026

An unforgettable golf cart festival bringing together enthusiasts from across the country. Hosted in partnership with Sanford Main Street, Sanford Golf Cart Gurus, GolfCarting Magazine, and GolfCartingTV, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Guru’s Golden Hour Rides

Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 6 PM

Cruise into sunset with a laid-back social ride ending at the Wild, Wild West End Saloon. Good vibes, great people, and golden-hour views included.

Weekly Meetups at Henry’s Depot

Every Thursday Night

Charge up your week and connect with the local golf cart community. Show off your ride, meet fellow enthusiasts, and be part of the movement that’s redefining Sanford’s streets.

with their participation in major celebrations like Light Up Sanford and Mardi Gras parades, these events highlight how golf carts have become more than just transportation, they’re a vehicle for connection, creativity, and giving back.

Part of Sanford’s charm lies in how seamlessly this modern trend blends with its historic character. Brick-lined streets and century-old buildings now welcome golf carts alongside pedestrians and cyclists, creating a lifestyle that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Local businesses have embraced the movement as well, offering golf cart parking, charging stations, and even special perks for cart-driving customers.

As Sanford continues to grow, its golf cart culture reflects the city’s welcoming spirit, aptly captured in its nickname, “The Friendly City.” Here - innovation and tradition ride side by side, proving that sometimes the best way to bring a community together is one small golf cart ride at a time. n

Victoria is a longtime Sanford resident, community leader, and advocate for civic engagement. She leads the Sanford Golf Cart Gurus, helping expand the city’s growing golf cart lifestyle. Victoria brings more than 20 years of operational leadership experience through her work at Commercial & Residential Industries Inc. Victoria is also a member of the Sanford Elks Lodge 124. She and her husband, Steven King, have been together for 24 years. Recently elected incoming President of the Woman’s Club of Sanford, she supports local initiatives, scholarships, and community programs.

Total Service Contracting, Inc.

“Is now even the right time for me to buy or sell?”

“Can we actually afford this… or are we stretching too far?”

“What is our home really worth in today’s market?”

“What if we buy now and prices drop?”

“Should we fix things up… or sell as-is?”

“How do we compete without overpaying?”

“What should we NOT overlook when touring homes?”

“How do we time this so we don’t feel rushed?”

“Who can we trust to guide us through all of this?”

If you’ve ever asked this... …you’re in the right place.

Thinking about buying or selling? Let’s

your questions answered.

A PLACE FOR HEALING IN SANFORD: Kids House of Seminole Supports Local Children

BY ALLISON MARTINOUS-VAN TILBORGH

An eight-year-old sits in a small room, feet barely touching the floor, holding onto a story he was told never to share. His name is Jay. By the time someone finally listens, that story has already been carried alone for far too long.

For many children experiencing abuse, this is where the process begins - not just with fear, but with confusion. Children like Jay are often asked to explain what happened over and over again, to different adults, in unfamiliar places, while their sense of safety continues to slip further away. For families in Seminole County, organizations like Kids House of Seminole exist to interrupt that cycle with something different: one place, one process, and a path forward.

Kids House is the county’s only Children’s Advocacy Center, bringing law enforcement, child protective services, medical care, and advocacy together under one roof. Instead of moving from office to office, children like Jay participate in a single forensic interview conducted by a trained professional, while investigators observe in real time. “This is game-changer for kids and families,” Development Director

Melissa Winstead explains, allowing collaboration without forcing children to relive their trauma repeatedly. From there, children may receive medical care, advocacy support, and referrals for ongoing therapy, all coordinated through one location.

That approach marks a significant shift from what families once faced. Before Kids House opened in 1999, children like Jay often had to recount their experiences to multiple

agencies, a process that could unintentionally deepen trauma. Today, that burden is replaced with a system designed to protect both the child’s well-being and the integrity of the investigation.

Inside Kids House, the work is heavy, but the space doesn’t feel that way. “It’s a place of hope and healing. A place where kids can be kids,” Winstead says.

What makes that possible is not just the model, but the community behind it. “Our community is full of caring people who will do whatever it takes for our kids,” Winstead shares. It’s a reminder that protecting children like Jay is not their responsibility, but ours.

Kids House of Seminole offers more than services. It offers the possibility that a child’s story does not end where it began. For Jay, it means something even simpler: the chance to feel safe again.

You can support Kids House by volunteering, attending community events, or becoming a partner in their mission to protect children and strengthen families. Learn more at kidshouse.org. n