Home Maintenance • December 18, 2023

Aging Roofs and Homeowner’s Insurance

by Linda Thomas

Last October I received a phone call from a Black Diamond resident who owns a village home concerned about homeowners insurance. He was able to get a four-point inspection and got affordable home insurance. Didn’t think much about it until in the last couple weeks, I had someone come through who wanted to buy a home in Black Diamond, but said if a homes’s roof is more than 20 years old, that homeowner’s insurance was going to be close to $6000. Again I didn’t think much about it, and told him to do this that and the other thing …get a four-point inspection and check with several insurance agencies etc. And then this week, things got personal when we received our homeowner’s insurance bill. It went from $3816.34 to $5346.31!

Our roof is 23 years old. That is part of the reason, price is up, but also building replacement costs are up. (Good thing the house is worth more money.) Our roof has never leaked, why replace it to lower insurance costs? We were told when we built, and Don Poss who replaces most of the tile roofs in Black Diamond still says tile roofs last 35-50 years. Insurance companies do not view it that way! So I decided to do some research this week, and you will see that almost none of the village homes’ roofs, have reached even 30 years before replacement.

A little history here of Black Diamond roofs…Some of the villages had problems when the homes were built… the roofer did not put steel in the valleys and the roofs leaked. Many had roof repairs and that’s a bandage… because eventually the roof has had to be replaced. You will see I have gone through the villages here starting with the oldest to the newest, and you can see the ages of the home, what was paid for a new roof. Roof replacement costs have skyrocketed, But why do you replace your roof if it’s not leaking? And of course, our Black Diamond ARB rules cite that you cannot just put any roofing on your village house. If it’s in the villages that have tile roofs, you have to have a tile roof . Exceptions over the years have been made for Bent Tree who had cedar shake roofs and Pinelake because roofs were leaking and after active hurricanes like CHARLIE made roof tiles very expensive and unavailable. So exceptions were made for those .two villages, and they came up with an acceptable asphalt shingle roof as a choice.

Now today, when you look in Barton Creek, I think some rules have been changed. There are tile roofs that have been replaced with tile, steel (looks like tile) and a composite roof, all pretty pricey. About three other village homes have been replaced with a steel roof that looks like tile.

I think we have some major problems coming… With real estate prices up, home mortgages costs up, I read… Florida has three times the costs for homeowners insurance…resale sales of homes with older roofs are going to be hurt. Our ARB needs to rethink, allowing the villages to choose a roof that is good looking, durable and may be not so expensive.

I was told by my insurance company to shop for another insurance company would-be costly since it is like starting over…inspections would need to be done. Instead, I was told if I have a wind mitigation inspection, it can lower the price of my insurance. My inspection is scheduled for Wednesday- I will let you know. Cost for inspection is $120. My home was built in 2001 and in 2002 Florida roof specifications were changed and required 4 point wind mitigation construction. So a home built after 2002, should have the right wind mitigation specs. I do not know, if a roof is not built to the new 2002 standard code, if it can be remedied … I emailed a couple of builders, but did not hear back.

Another roof topic…colors! Treyburn now has 4-5 colors instead of just terra cotta. Barton Creek roof changes also make for more than one color. I think all look fine. One village color for all …not necessary . Choices with approval I think are good!

If you have not had your roof inspected since you bought it, or built your home, a roof inspection to look for cracked/moved tiles and replacement of the broken tiles, can help with preventing leaks and damage…furthering the life of your home’s roof.

By the way, Homeowner’s insurance companies are not insuring homes with hot water heaters over 15 years old.

These roof change out facts came up from the property appraiser’s office website for the most part. Scary, few to no homes’ roofs make it to even 30 years old!

They can do a wind mitigation

Anderson Inspection Matt Foster 352-346-4711

JD inspections Jamie DiLeo 352-634-5223

Home Inspection Services Dan Torres 352-220-4994

Southern Exposure Chris Ensign 352-302-6

Restaurants • Uncategorized • December 9, 2023

Citrus County Early Winter Restaurant Update

by Linda Thomas

Time for the monthly check on Citrus County restaurants. We returned to several favorites and still look forward to experiencing the re-opened Joes’s Family Restaurant. Have a report on the new restaurants Mikang Sushi and LaPergola Italian and Argentinian Ristorante. We tried a local fish fry at the Greek Orthodox Church. Printable pdf files for each CC restaurant areas with contact info at end.

We had lunches at Hernando’s Mike’s Other Place Deli and Dogs. It was not as crowded this second visit.. It’s OK place… they do have Italian style meals to go that you bring home and heat up yourself. Menu changes, but they have had lobster ravioli, cannelloni, spaghetti and meatballs and lasagna, to name a few. All priced like $11.99, $12.99. The entrées look big enough to share.

We tried to have lunch at the newly reopened Joe’s Restaurant in Inverness. We were there at 11:30, and there was a half hour to 40 minute wait, so we didn’t stay. They are closed on Wednesday. Obviously, a very popular place.

We continue to have a good lunches at Jimmy‘s T’s NY Deli, (learned we liked not only the soup and sandwiches but his lemon mascarpone and rice pudding), New England Café, Cattledog’s, and The Breakfast Station

We had dinner at Beverly Hills Las Magueyes Mexican, and our large sized group had good food and service. Large variety of meals were ordered . Everybody enjoyed their meal , tacos, fajita taco salad, fajitas, burritos, and enchiladas.

We had lunch and dinner at the Lecanto’s Saint Michael’s Greek Orthodox Church. They have a Fish Fry every Friday. It was very good. I had calamari and fish. Excellent! (brought leftovers home-huge portions) Shrimp was good. Everybody seemed to enjoy their meals including this week’s meat item…1/2 a broasted chicken. Rice pudding french fries and cole slaw included and you can order Greek salads for $. They do a great carryout business. Entrées are very reasonable like $13.00. + You can bring your own bottle of wine. For info, look at website:

https://www.archangelmichaelgoc.org/extras/fish-fry

It’s been a while since we went to Homosassa’s Wallaces At Greenhouse. Our table of four had ordered the pesto cod, the honey salmon, the fillet, and the prime rib. And all of them were delicious! We opted out of the included garlic mashed potatoes for extra veggies or for an up charge, ginger mashed sweet potatoes. For dessert we had a flourless chocolate torte, butter pecan gelato, and pumpkin cheesecake. YUMMY! They serve a delicious loaf of bread. Salads are extra; wine is seven dollars. Nice service, nice setting.

I have this recommendation from the nextdoor.com website… and this is what the person said about the new place in town: Mikang Sushi…”We lived in Okinawa Japan for five years, so we’re pretty picky about Japanese food. I’ve been searching ever since we moved here in 2021 for good Ramen and sushi we’ve tried everywhere from Crystal River to Ocala and finally found a restaurant with authentic Ramen and great sushi! They just added two types of Ramen to the menu last week.” 292 N. Heritage Oaks Path in the strip mall off 486, next to Heritage Village. No delivery but they do take out. They also have Korean dishes, “ambience is wonderful interior staff is very attentive and nice.” 352-513-3588; www.mikangsushi.com

NEW: LaPergola Italian and Argentinian Ristorante 2780 N Florida Ave, Hernando,

Heard good things from some, okay from other. (352) 503-2242 https://www.facebook.com/p/La-Pergola-Italian-Argentinian-Ristorante-100091944200665/

Black Diamond Ranch: We continue to enjoy our Sunday breakfast… now that we figured out how to order our fried eggs properly… over light. We enjoy the light bites nights Art enjoys the hotdog, and I always like the southwest quesadilla with chicken.

The Christmas dinner was fabulous, I hear. Decorations were classy. Attendee comments: “sea bass melted in your mouth…claw bar over ice was fabulous, beef tenderloin cooked perfectly…cut with your fork. Dessert bar was a great presentation and sample-sized so you could taste all four desserts! Lots of dancing!

Lecanto, Bev Hills, Hernando Restaunts 2023

Homosassa Eatries 2023

Inverness 10:2023 up Restaurant

Crystal River 2023 Restaurants

Shopping • December 2, 2023

Citrus County Florida: Where to Shop

by Linda Thomas

Shopping locally:

Your grocery stores: Publix, Winn-Dixie, Save A lot, Rutabagas Natural Foods; 4 Walmarts (Inverness, Lecanto, Dunnellon, Homosassa) Home Needs: Home Depot, Rural King, Lowe’s.

Department store: several Bealls.

If you are a Shop ’til You Drop person, Citrus County is centrally located to some of the best malls around and you should be able to shop to your heart’s content not only locally, but in Tampa, Ocala, Gainesville and Orlando.

(Coming: Target, Aldi, Ross for Less, and ? ) Highways 491-486 in Lecanto

For everyday needs in Citrus County:

Butcher shops: Angus Meats in Dunnellon, 5274 W Dunnellon Rd, 352-465-0241; https://www.anguswholesalemeats.com/

and NEW: Lecanto:Chopping Block Meat Market 1209 S Lecanto Hwy (491) 352-249-7689

Do you enjoy unique Fashion Boutiques?

Hernando’s Wisteria Boutique is a women’s boutique specializing in fine apparel, accessories, jewelry, unique gift items for the home and all occasions. They feature local artwork “for sale” as well as handmade jewelry by local artisans. Heritage Plaza. 352-270-8019.Located next to Cattle Dogs Roaster. https://www.wisteriaboutiqueshop.com/

Beverly Hills: Wisteria II consignment clothing and accessories, handmade jewelry, beads and beading classes. 4029 N Lecanto Hwy (491); 352-697-0784; www.wisteriaboutiquetoo.com

Crystal River offers a very nice ladies’s boutique: The Cotton Club: They feature such fine lines as Joseph Ribkoff, Brighton accessories, Jams World, Yellow Box, Tommy Bahamas, Jag Jean, Belldini, Gator Gear, Alex and Ani, Slimsation, Clara Sun Woo, and Spartina. They offer a unique line of jewelry, shoes and accessories.Citrus Ave, Crystal River; 352-563-2582

If you are looking for home decor and or an unusual gift…check these places:

Lecanto: Circle of Friends Gifts located in the VA/Government Complex (behind Diamond Ridge); Monies earned are used for the Feed Seniors programs. Cute decor, jewelry, clothing, very reasonable prices. Many are handmade. 2804 W Mar Knighton CT 352-5993; 10-2 Monday thru Friday.

Beverly Hills: Highly Favored Antiques and Mercantile

Everything from food to furniture. 30 artisans creations in the store. FREE SANTA PHOTOS DEC. 2. 10-2. 4051 N LECANTO HWY (491) 352-302-5111.

Crystal River: 4 Seasons Wreaths Co; Local artisan Annette Damron make beautiful seasonal home decor items. And she offers classes to teach you! 8675 W. Godfrey LN, 352-794-3009 4seasonswreathscollc@gmail.com

HERNANDO:

NEW: A Cracker Canvas: home decor, artist supplies, paintings and art work; 2211 E 486 (Novel Bryant) ; 352-212-4011

CRYSTAL RIVER;

Several shops in the Crystal River Heritage Village: including

Tea Bar, The Highlander Café and the River Ranch Bar & Grill. All nestled among the canopied Oaks, Palms and Magnolia trees in the historic downtown of Crystal River

Also in the Crystal River/Citrus Ave area and across 19 from Heritage Village: Amy’s on the Avenue Shopping & Bistro is a great place for lunch and gift shop. Several other gift and clothing stores on the Avenue.

https://www.facebook.com/Amysontheavenue

INVERNESS:

Ritzy Rags and Glitzy Jewels https://www.facebook.com/RitzyRagsandGlitzyJewels.etc

Connor’s Gifts: clothing, handbags, gifts. 218 Tompkins St., 352-344-9796

https://www.facebook.com/ConnorsGifts/

HOMOSASSA:

Pottery: Pepper Creek Pottery www.facebook.com/peppercreekpots

Jewelry and accessories: The Glass Garage (Stained Glass Artist’s Studio) Household items and jewelry. (352) 212-3617.10823 W Yulee Dr.

DUNNELLON:

Try the Historic Village Shops of Dunnellon antiques, curiosity shops, gift shops…off Hwy 41. Grumbles House Antiques and Garden Shop. flowers, yard art, home decor 352-465-1460; 20799 Walnut St. https://grumbleshouseantiques.com

BTW Flower Time Florist has moved to Homosassa Trail.

SHOPPING CENTERS:

Click on each shopping center’s link to learn more:

Shopping Less than an Hour Drive :

Paddock Mall (Ocala) Macy’s, Belk;

Berkshire Oaks (Ocala) includes Kohl’s, H.H. Gregg and Sports Authority (Ocala…off Hwy 200 near I-75).

http://mallsdb.com/fl/berkshire-oaks

Market Street at Heathbrook in Ocala on Hwy 200 includes Dillard’s, Dick’s Sports World, Barnes & Noble, Chicos Outlet, Talbots Outlet, ULTA and DSW Shoe Warehouse.

Shopping that is an Hour Drive or More :

Citrus Park Town Center (Tampa) www.westfield.com

International Plaza (Tampa) shopinternationalplaza.com

Westshore Plaza (Tampa) www.westshoreplaza.com/directory/

Oaks Mall (Gainesville) Dillard’s, Macys, Belk’s www.theoaksmall.com/

Tioga Town Square (Gainesville) www.tiogatowncenter.com/

The Shoppes of Wiregrass (Wesley Chapel) www.theshopsatwiregrass.com/

Tampa Premium Outlets (Lutz) https://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/

The Florida Mall (Orlando) www.simon.com/mall/the-florida-mall

The Orlando Premium Outlets www.premiumoutlets.com

Millenia Mall (Orlando) http://www.mallatmillenia.com/

In Citrus County, food and the basic necessities of life are close at hand without the traffic you’ll experience in the big cities, but when you want a shopping field trip, try Ocala, Orlando, Gainesville or Tampa.

12/2023

courtesy Linda Thomas, Century 21JW Morton 352-464-4881

Uncategorized • November 18, 2023

Citrus County Growing Population

by Linda Thomas

As we approach the holiday season and this week Thanksgiving, we can reminisce about that first Thanksgiving where settlers celebrated a great harvest. America was and continues to experience growing migrations. However, population growth is less than it has been. This week, our broker sent out an article on US migration. Where are people moving to? Important to know, as you watch your real estate investment value change.

I became curious to see some numbers on how fast our Citrus County seems to be expanding. According to World Population Review The 2023 Citrus population is 157,626, and in 2010 it was 141,238.

See chart: CC population

Population Growth Continues to Decline Nationwide

The U.S. population grew by a meager 0.38% between July 2021 and July 2022 — which, while slower growth than normal, was still higher than last year’s record-low rate of 0.16% growth. This uptick can be attributed to two major factors: fewer deaths as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and a significant influx of net immigration from abroad. In fact, the United States gained more immigrants in 2022 than the past four years combined. These numbers varied significantly by state. The states that saw the greatest population increase were Florida (1.91%), Idaho (1.82%) and South Carolina (1.72%), with losses greatest in New York (-0.91%),Illinois (-0.82%), and Louisiana (-0.8%). Overall, nearly two in five states saw their populations decline in the last year. 18 States Lost Population Over the Past Year.

While the jump in mortgage rates has made it more financially difficult for American homeowners to move, millions will continue to do so each year by necessity and when they do, they’ll gravitate toward lower-cost-of-living areas.

Even with very low national population growth expected for the next several decades, the U.S.remains in an extreme housing shortage. Unless we build new housing at a much faster pace than we are currently, we will continue to see more demand for housing than available supply. This should continue to keep prices relatively high.

Americans are still moving to the suburbs — just not in the same numbers as last year. Cities in general appear to be poised for a resurgence, although the numbers for each individual city will vary.

The Southeast remains incredibly popular for inter-state movers, many of whom are leaving coastal cities in search of more space and a lower cost of living.

Baby boomers have overtaken millennials as the largest cohort of home buyers. Keep this in mind when staging homes for sale; the most common buyer in your market may not be the millennial family with kids on the way.The “silver tsunami” — in which older Americans free up a big chunk of the housing stock — is unlikely to hit in earnest for another decade or two.

link to full article:

Side-Where-are-People-Moving-2023-3

Home Maintenance • November 2, 2023

Who To Call for Home Services Citrus County

by Linda Thomas

Homeownership is the American Dream but owning a home requires a lot of regular maintenance tasks to keep the investment in good shape. I am including a list of service companies and maintenance people who can help you, if you are not a DIY person.

“Who are you going to call to take care of things around your home?” I have put together quite an extensive list in a semi-alphabetical order and including:

air conditioning service, animal critter control/removal; awnings; dryer vent clean-outs; electricians; fireplace service; generators; handymen: including repairs, cleaning, and power washing; home clean outs including furniture removal and charity donation pick ups; home warranties, lanai screens/gutters; mobile car detailing; painters; plumbers; pool service; pool builders; roof cleaning and inspections; tree trimming and/or removal and window cleaning and septic services.

Hope you find this helpful info and PLEASE let know if you have a service company and/or vendor to recommend. I have not evaluated lawn mowing services (so many!)

Air Conditioning Services

Air filters need to be clean/replaced yearly. Always schedule service on air conditioners yearly.

We have used Bay Area for years: https://bayareacool.com/ 888-324-4033

Air Pros of Ocala (352) 354-3515

BD Recommendation: “Installed complete new ductwork, including a new feed to a previously unfed room, 18 inches of new attic and garage insulation and a new Carrier air conditioner, a two stage ultra-violet air scrubber, new air handler, new base and new wiring in one day, very next day of call. I won’t scare you with what we spent, but the house is very comfortable, the air is incredibly clean, and we’ve added to the value.”

Worthington Air Conditioning and Heating…

https://worthingtonacandheat.com/ 352-220-9815

Aluminum & Gutter

Lanai Screen Replacement/

While a handyman may be able to repair and replace individual screening tears, lanai screens are meant to last eight years.

Blackshears Aluminum; Crystal River, 352-795-9722; https://www.blackshears.com/

Screen Monkey 352-746-7091

Mike’s Rescreen & Gutter, LLC. 352-364-7506. He even wipes all the supporting frames down with wd40 so they look new.

Gutters were installed by Nature Coast Gutter (352) 464-0114. Beautiful work by a father-son team. Very reasonable cost.

C & C Gutter Solutions 352-257-5812; several recommendations

Animal/Critter Removal

Trapper King; https://www.trapperking.com/; 888-991-5464; Brian

The Gopher Man, from Brooksville , Johnny Loose,1-352-279-0201

Awning:

Canvas Experts 8279 W. Homosassa Trail, Homosassa, (352) 628-9110

Appliance Repairs:

Johnson Appliance Service Don’t Replace it. Let me Repair it! Same Day Service * 51 Years Exp, I repair • Washers • Dryers; Air Conditioning; Refrigerators • Water heaters; Dishwashers – Garbage Disposals. LOW Overhead…LOW Prices. Tim 352.145.0072

AUTO SERVICE EMERGENCY 24 HOUR TIRE REPAIR:

Bay Breeze on the Go Mobile (Tire and Repair) 352-679-1449

COMPUTER SERVICES:

COMPUTER WORKS: BOULES WAHBA; 352-249-6633.

ELECTRICIANS:

Premier Electric; http://premierelectric.com/ 239-598-2000

Gaudette Electric https://www.gaudetteelectric.com/coupon-savings/; 352-628-3064

I used Mister Sparkly. 844-266-5933 mistersparky.com for some electrical work. I was given a $219 estimate but only charged $135 for the actual work done. Honesty you do not find everywhere. I would highly recommend them. ( BD resident)

My son Randall Lanier is an electrical journeyman. He can do electrical work, moving outlets, installing GFI’s, Installing Ceiling fans. If you have clients needing misc electrical work. He can get it done in a timely manner. Randall Lanier, 352-789-5472 Let him know I referred you. Deanna, C-21 realtor

Fireplace Service:

The Fireplace Advanced LLC, Vinny; 352-794-6589

Andersen Gas: https://andersongasservice.com/; Inverness; 352-344-1059

Flooring and Tile work: BAREFOOT FLOORING & Home Services 352-535-4797; barefootflooringhomeservices.com

Garage Doors: We have always had good service from Discount Garage Doors; 866-420-3667

Generator:

BD resident recommendation: Trademark Electric for the generator, 3621 N.W. 27^th Avenue; Ocala, (352) 629-8617; (They are the authorized dealer for Generac generators)

Handymen for your household needs: cleaning, dryer vents; pressure cleaning, etc.

Many handymen can help with the powerwashing and cleaning of drives and lanai screens. I use Kevin Hurd but he and his partner Jeff can get busy, so I have developed a list of others, from other people’s suggestions:

Kevin Hurd, Handyman (352-220-0352)

NEW: from BD resident: Davo’s 352 -651-2530 Estradavidco@me.com; And another number, 352 – 436- 7805. His business card reads, gutter cleaning, baseboards, sheet rock, finish carpentry, painting, wood floors, pressure washing and Window Cleaning. So, it is good to know there is another reliable Handyman around.

NEW from BD resident: ACE hardware gave me a card for a Handyman. His name is Joe Baldocchi, lives in Beverly Hills, and his number is 352-322-6386. He is responsive, a good communicator, reliable, and knows what he is doing or recommends someone who does. He was on time, fixed my problems, and his charges were fair and reasonable.

Jerry for pressure washing 352-212-8806

Michael Dennison 352-261-6777; Home Services; carpenter, painter, pressure washing; mdhomeservicesllc.com

Ivan Garrison of JVA Properties at 352-201-7136 (C-21 agent recommendation)

Honey Do Man Brian Havens 518-260-5603 (Century 21 agent recommendation)

The following were Recommended by the next-door.com website

Bob Beaulieu 352-587-5870.

Joey Valinoti 352-462- 8160 —he’s a Pine Ridge resident and licensed and insured

Erich Dean 352-586-8123

Nature Coast Maintenance Tony Davis 352-210-8107

Carlos Pavon 956-466-5866 He lives in Beverly Hills

Mark Michelbrink Do It All 260-417-8438 cell

Most of our clothes dryers are vented up through the roof…

Clean your dryer vent duct yearly to prevent fires and keep the dryer working more efficiently. A handyman may be able to do it…

Stanley Steemer: 352-726-4646 I have them deep clean my tile and grout every year. And they clean dryer vents. I also had them do the air duct cleaning.

Tile Cleaner and Restoration: mrsgrout.com; email: hello@mrsgrout.com;

352-461-3832

Home clean outs:

Lee Hans Clean Outs 352-212-8535

https://www.facebook.com/Leehans-clean-outs-110822870470621/

HOUSE CLEANER: Busy Bee Cleaning Service Tina 518-321-1525

from BD & Nextdoor: Poshmaid call 352-501-8164 just posted a review about her Patricia has been doing my home in Black Diamond for a few months now and I just love her. Very efficient and professional. Give her a call

Furniture, furnishings to get rid of? Want to sell?

Dudleys Auctions; https://dudleysauction.com/concrete5-8.2.0/index.php; 352-637-9588

Citrus County Charities (some purchasing and accept donations); https://citruscountycharitiesinc.us/; 352-419-7900

Second Time Around Furniture; https://www.facebook.com/Second-Time-Around-urniture-1707517326135241/; 352-270-8803

Local pick up charities:

Daystar Life Center; https://daystarcitruscounty.org/; 352-795-8668

Habitat for Humanity ReStores (2 locations)

https://www.habitatcc.org/shop.php; 7800 W. Gulf to Lake Hwy; Crystal River, (352) 564-2300 and/or 3703 E. Gulf to Lake Hwy. Inver ness, (352) 341-1800

HOME WARRANTIES: Stay away from America Home Shield says a BD resident .

Landscape/ Yard Work:

My son does land clearing / bush hogging as well. Trimming limbs off roof edges.

The storm has shut down his out of town clients fishing charters and is looking to pick up some work. Randall Lanier 352-789-5472 Let him know I referred you. Deanna, C-21 realtor

Woodchuck Yard Service:hauling, weed pulling, lawn service, stump grinding, gutter clean out, mulch laying, power washing, etc. James (681)208-3204

Alpha Exterior Cleaning: Exterior cleaning service: Chris Carr, 352-812-8322;

Isiah Ross 352-792-7350: Here’s the list of work I do. Gutter cleaning , pressure washing , screen cleaning (pool cage cleaning ) laying mulch /stone/pavers , hedge trimming , weed pulling , putting down liner to protect weeds from growing , cleaning fans and plant shelves (dust collectors ) , bush removal , small tree removal and decent sized stump remova

Painters

The outside of your stucco home should be painted every eight years: A painter can also check the foundation and exterior walls for cracks and check for gaps around doors and windows and reseal them.

Several recommendations from BD residents:

Joshua Mancia, Painting and Pressure Washing, 786-714-3382, joshuaspaitingcc@gmail.com

Shane Burbank for painting 352-232-382

Alliance Painting, Scott Waldeck. He does both inside and outside jobs + whatever else you may want done. 352-628-9772 or his cell is 352-422-2339.

Bonnie: 352-364-6968

Tyler Duncan 352-455-3443

Painting, Wallpaper removal, repaint cabinets: JAN TIMMONS 352-436-7431, jan.timmons@aol.com

New

PAINTER. We have had several homes in our 53 year marriage and we have painted both inside and outside several homes. We just moved back to Terra Vista and we utilized Mr. Max Painting 352-270-7574 for painting the full inside in April and just had his crew paint our full exterior this past week. BEST PAINTERS EVER. Attention to details were outstanding. Extremely pleasant to work with. Pricing was very competitive to others. No short cuts. Very very professionals and I’d highly recommend to my neighbors.

PLUMBERS:

Montgomery Plumbing Inc, Tyler Montgomery, 352-436-7695

Tsacrios Plumbing; https://www.facebook.com/Bob-Tsacrios-Plumbing-Inc-116817698340930/

352-621-7705

Manatee Plumbing: https://www.manateeplumbing.com/; 352-795-7473

Pool Builders: 1 recommendation:

Aloha Pools; https://www.aloha-custompools.com/;352-419-4231

Pool Repair:

Tim’s Tile and Marcite; 352-628-0184

Pool Service:

Nick Seymore; 352-423-3692 nick@ecopoolplus.com

Pool repair contractor (maybe the heater can be fixed and not have to be replaced?!)

Jim Schiedenhelm 352-232-5817, jsaes0702@msn.com

Rainy season starts in June and by March the roofs and driveways show the black algae :

Roof Cleaners:

Roof looking black? That is black algae. Black driveways need to be cleaned more often, but once a roof is cleaned, and if treated with a retardant, you can go about three years before having to have it cleaned again. And love our screened lanais but not when they turn green! Make sure they cover your bushes when they spray!

We have used Ken Nedzke Citrus Roof Cleaning and Property Maintenance for our roof cleaning jobs. He uses no pressure and a biodegradable solution that he adds additional cleaning agents to (i.e. Dawn and Simple Green to name 2). The chemical does not harm the landscape (but cover the plants anyway it does zap them a bit) . In our own experience, the zinc oxide treatment used as a retardant is worth the extra $150-$250 (depends on roof size). You can go a longer time for the next roof cleaning by applying it. Ken tries not to get on the roof, but some roof pitches require a minimal walk to get the entire roof and valleys cleaned. Ken does not believe in power washing roofs since the pressure can loosen and or remove the caulking. Using bleach is not good for the caulking either. (325-270-3927, http://citrusroofcleaning.com/)

New on the scene: Back2Bright. Check out their website, very informative on why to clean your roof! Many people do not realize how infested their roof really is because the spores gradually take it over and a lot of times the color changes uniformly. A good way to check is by looking at your sewer flues and vents. Most of them are galvanized, which means they were created using electrolysis which coats them with thin layer of zinc. The zinc oxide acts as a mold and mildew inhibitor. Therefore, when you look at the vents and flues on your home, you’ll find the original color of your roof!… https://www.back2bright.com/ 352-445-4840

Roof Inspections Maintenance:

Tile roofs are supposed to last for 35-50 years…but you do have to have them periodically inspected and have cracked, loose tiles replaced. Caulking is needed on all roofs…yes, even the metal roofs Vents on the roof can also be compromised as well… squirrels love to chew on areas up there. It seems lately, home inspectors are more and more checking that the roof valleys are not full of leaves which can cause water back up and eventually roof leaks.

Don Poss: https://www.facebook.com/Don-Poss-Roofing-Inc-716156871764511/ (352-270-3927)

Hise Roofing: 352-344-2442 https://www.facebook.com/hiseroofing

Boulerice Roofing: 352-628-7445 https://www.boulericeroofing.net/

Ledgewood Roofing 352-888-4825; https://ledgewoodroofing.com/

Septic service & clean out:

A Able 352-795-1554

Brooks Septic 352-644-3341

Chet’s Septic Service 352-637-1411

Tile and Flooring:

Barefoot Flooring and Home Services Llc: tile, vinyl, laminate, stone, flagstone…352-535-4797; email:barefoorflooringservices@gmail.com

web: barefootflooringhomeservices.com

I like Stanley Steemer for cleaning.

Tree Trimmers/Removal:

JLH Tree Service 352-220-9407

Griffins Tree Service 352-249-6495

(2) Recommendations from BD residents:

Claypool Tree Service Jeremy 352-201-7313

Craigs Tree Service. Have used him twice. Excellent work and very reasonable. (352) 302-9917

Sunbird Properties Maintenance; 352-232 9592 or 352-556-5991

D&J Landclearing & More LLC. “ … reaching out to our local realtors trying to expand our business. We offer land clearing, underbrush removal, tree removal & more…”

https://www.landclearingdunnellon.com/; 352-209-5827

Window Cleaning:

These came from C-21 agents:

Chrissy’s window cleaning 352-634-4838 Just mention Glamour Salon when they call.

Love and Lemons Cleaning Service; Brittney Wright; (352) 560-1993

Doug Shoaf; (352) 501-0402;

and one more new rec:

Premier Pressure Washing who was recommended on Nextdoor and he did good job our drive and lanai and the outside of our windows 352-257-5602.

WINDOW REPLACEMENT:

I recently had all my windows replaced by Superior Windows & Siding. I can’t say enough good things about the company. Competitive pricing, excellent workmanship, quality product and the owner/operator is very personable. 4 people on my block have used him and we are all happy customers!

Owner/Operator: Jesse Pardiso; 352-634-5812

P.S. I did not recommend lawn mowers …it seems people find the person they like and keep. I did have a dis and a recommendation for lawn replacement:

“Stay away from Nursery Life of Citrus, who dug up and removed our front lawn and never showed up to finish after we paid for the job. We now have a new lawn installed by Joshua Swanson, (352) 249-8587. Currently fighting heat and fungus, but it looks good. He did a great job and is a very nice guy.”

And I have personally used Connolly Sod and a private landscape man who is not looking for more work lol.

printable pdf: 11:23Who to Call for Services

Courtesy of Linda Thomas LLC, J W Morton Real Estate 11/2023

Home Maintenance • Real Estate • Uncategorized • October 27, 2023

Is Your Home in “Scary” Shape?

by Linda Thomas

With Halloween just around the corner I ran across some “scary” information concerning real estate and your home. (1) NAR suggests these home decorations are “horrifying.” (2) Nothing is more wicked than having your home burglarized. Bob Vila offers ideas for home security. (3) Home inspections can become a nightmare; prevent bad reports with a little TLC for your home. (4) (I include an updated “who to call for services” list.)

Get ready to gasp and scream with the Styled, Staged & Sold blog’s

annual countdown of the overdone trends we’re ready to say goodbye

to in the new year. This list is compiled from designer input and

consumer surveys. Some outdated trends include barbiecore; all white bathrooms; alternate stainless steel appliances; super shiny surfaces; mini backsplashes; dining room backless benches, and there is more.

link to full article:

https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/10-horrifying-home-design-trends-2023-edition

36 Easy Ways to Protect Your Home from Break-Ins. How can air conditioners and car keys protect you from being burglarized? Read on for clever tips and tricks to improve your home’s security.

This article suggests shine a light; keep the big ticket purchases a secret; close garage doors; install cameras; replace hollow core exterior doors; install a security system; keep car keys at your fingertips; get a fake dog; reinforce sliding doors; install driveway alarms, motion detectors and much more!

link to full article:

https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/36-easy-ways-to-protect-your-home-from-break-ins-52902

Prevent spooky home inspections reports with routine maintenance chores. Check and replace air conditioning filters; clean dryer vents; test smoke detectors; inspect fire extinguishers; clean the garbage disposal; run water in the unused bathrooms; check house for leaks; inspect grout and caulking for cracks; inspect and clean gutters.

So this week, I’m going to talk a little bit about those home inspections that I’ve had in the last year and the problems that have come based on repair needs found in a home. These repairs usually come back to the homeowner to repair.

Was your home built in the 1980s and 1990s? Check your electrical box- it if it is a “Challenger” electrical box, they will not pass inspection because homeowner’s insurance companies will not approve them. The boxes have proven to be a fire hazard, and the boxes were discontinued-so parts are not available for them. A replacement electrical box is going to cost you $1200-$1800. Info from local Inspector Tony Heitz (Advanced Home Analysis):

http://www.brubakerinc.com/home-services/challenger-electric-panel-fire/

Roof: Many homes in Black Diamond have aging roofs. Insurance companies have raised rates, make sure you have your roof inspected and when necessary follow the POA guidelines (now under review).

Water Heater-If you’ve gotten 14 to 20 years out of your hot water tank and you have not replaced it— you may want to think about doing that before it goes and leaks water all over the place. Water damage is not fun. You can get a high efficiency hot water tank, and this is a plus item for a home sale. You also may have to make sure that the gas heaters are installed properly… back in the 1980s they installed them on the floor but now the ignition source has to be 18″ above floor in garage. You may want to check your hot water heater. Also insurance companies will not issue a home insurance policy to a new owner, if the heater is more than 15 years old.

When was the last time you had your house painted on the outside? The majority of homes being built are concrete block with stucco. The paint protects the stucco. And it was recommended that the outside be painted every eight years. I have a home inspector, who’s also a contractor, says he paints his house every five years to make sure that there’s no water damage happening and look for cracks in the stucco/concrete.

While you’re checking that out, check your facia board, if there’s any rotting facia board, (or chewed area by squirrels) you should have that trimmed out and repainted.

When was the last time you had your gutters cleaned out?

You know clogged gutters can cause a back up of water which can cause roof leaks and foundation damage:

https://t.e2ma.net/webview/bvde1c/9b21429791d121957a9065780a6c42af

When was the last time you had your dryer vent cleared out? It should be cleaned out once a year, otherwise a clogged dryer vent can cause fires. See the article by a home local home inspector Chuck Baker (BPG Inspections)

https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5022.pdf

How old is your swimming pool? If you had pitting or spots showing up in pool surface, it’s time to have a resurfacing done. That could run anywhere from $3000-$5000.

Do you have a septic tank? Have you had it cleaned out and inspected lately? New septic installs are subject to stricter materials for environmental safety and cost a lot of money! Take care of the one you have!

Does your garage door have an electronic safety eye (reverses the opening and closing)? Older models without them, do not pass inspections. Are the springs on the door safe? Best to have an inspection and repair before someone is injured by a falling door.

There you have the outdated and neglected items that were identified during recent home inspections that caused monster headaches for the seller!

who to call for services:Who to Call for Services

Last, but not least….

We live in scary times…pray for peace!

senior living • Uncategorized • October 20, 2023

Building a Financial Future

by Linda Thomas

This week’s blog is from Bonnie McDonald (Seniorriches.com)

She has some good ideas and resources for managing money especially for and in retirement. It is a comprehensive compilation of tips and tricks that can help.

To live comfortably in retirement, it’s best not to put all your eggs
> in the Social Security and Medicare baskets. But what should you do to
> ensure you have enough to not only live on but thrive on and when
> should you start saving? I provide tips and resources on how to create a
> retirement and later-in-life healthcare safety net that isn’t
> dependent on Social Security or Medicare.
>

Image via Pexels

Building Financial Health for a Secure Future

It’s an unfortunate truth that as we get older, Social Security and Medicare may not be enough to cover our expenses. Taking the time to build financial health now is essential for a secure future.

Make the Most of Your Savings Goals

Regions Bank notes that the key to building financial health is creating savings goals and making sure those goals are met through consistent contributions. Start by setting realistic goals such as saving 10% of your income each month. Then look into ways to maximize your savings by researching different investment options or taking advantage of employer-matched retirement plans.

Earn Additional Income

Earning additional income streams can also help increase savings goals and build financial health over time. Consider starting a business or investing in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds so that any extra money earned can be put towards building financial security. Do some research online to find out more about small businesses in your area to get an idea of any gaps in the market. Every state has its own rules for LLC formation, but a formation service can help you file with considerably fewer fees than an attorney. Be sure to compare your options.

Find Ways to Save More

Finding ways to save more money for retirement involves both large and small approaches that can add up over time. On a larger scale, consider strategies such as increasing your 401(k) contributions or investing in an IRA. On a smaller scale, everyday savings can also make a significant difference. For example, switching to natural DIY cleaners instead of store-bought brands can lead to substantial savings. These homemade solutions often use inexpensive, common household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, and they can be just as effective as commercial products. While this might seem like a minor change, such savings can accumulate over the years, boosting your retirement fund. Remember, every bit helps when it comes to preparing for a comfortable retirement.

Invest in Insurance

As a senior stroke survivor, insurance should be used wisely when trying to build financial health. Research different types of insurance policies such as life insurance, disability insurance, and long-term care insurance. This will help you find out what type of coverage is best suited for you and your family’s needs in the future.

Sell Your Home and Downsize

Downsizing a home can be an effective way to build financial security for the future, especially if it allows you to reach your savings goals faster. Look online at home prices before making any decisions about buying or renting out a property so that you get the most out of any potential sale or rental agreement. Take note of the locations you like and how close they are to the things you need.

Research Assisted Living Costs

Many people don’t have a firm grasp on how costly it is to live in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Yet statistics show most of us experience at least a brief stint in one, either recovering from illness or surgery or in our later years. To be prepared, research the costs and reviews of nearby assisted living facilities. This way, you will already have an understanding of the expense and can have a financial plan in place.

Planning for retirement can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking steps like downsizing and selling your home and researching assisted living facilities, you can start taking care of your financial future today.

For help finding the perfect home to live the good life in Citrus County, Florida, contact Realtor Linda Thomas today!

TO DO • October 12, 2023

Citrus County Festivals 2023-2024

by Linda Thomas

ANNUAL Citrus County Florida FESTIVALS

What’s coming up in Crystal River and Citrus County, FL?

The fun and festivities are nonstop throughout the year from the Florida Manatee Festival in January to spring’s Floral City Strawberry Festival. Find out about all the top annual festivals and events coming to Citrus County, FL and check out our events calendar to see daily events.

I will update as more dates come available…

October

Cooter Festival (activities all month) 10/14/2023; 10-5
Rock out at this three-day music festival at Liberty Park in Inverness. Enjoy beautiful Lake Henderson, live performances, family-friendly carnival rides, food vendors, and more.

http://www.inverness-fl.gov/685/Cootertober

COOTERTOBER ZOMBIE PROM October 20, 2023 @ 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

What’s Cooterpocalypse without a Zombie Prom?

Join us for an evening of dancing, socializing, and zombifying with this traditional prom concept at the Depot at Liberty Park. Featuring DJ Trae for entertainment, a zombie-makeup station, a zombie selfie spot, food trucks, and more, this event is sure to be so fun, it’ll wake the dead. And, what’s a prom without a Prom King and Queen? We’ll be crowning the best zombies at the end of the evening so be sure to come in your best zombie prom outfit!

https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/events/cootertober-zombie-prom

Haunted Tram Ride (Spooky Springs) 10/27-28 6-10 pm
A Halloween-themed fundraising event sponsored by the Friends of Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park, enjoy a haunted house, costume contest, and a spooky tram ride at the park!

https://www.floridastateparks.org/events/spooky-springs-0

Heritage Village Scarecrow Festival October 14; 10-5
Bring the kids to this fall celebration at Heritage Village in Crystal River. This festival features pony rides, hayrides, a pumpkin patch and live performances.

http://www.theshoppesofheritagevillage.com/UpcomingEvents.html

Withlacoochee Annual Ride (held10/8/23 … try next year!)
On the first Sunday in October, join the cyclists who will ride all 46 miles of the beautiful Withlacoochee State Trail. Or signup to volunteer at this family-friendly event.

November

Inverness Festival of the Arts 11/4-6/ 2023; 10-4
An Inverness tradition since 1971, on the first weekend in November, join art lovers to browse 100 booths of fine arts and crafts at this free two-day event.

https://inverness.gov/527/Festival-of-the-Arts

Blues “N Bar-B-Que 11/5/23 Mark your calendars. Live blues and mouth-watering barbecue make for a perfect combination at this fun outdoor festival in Homosassa.

https://www.ncfob.com/

Ozello Arts, Crafts, & Blue Crab Festival
A tradition celebrating all things arts, crafts, and blue crab. Enjoy food, drinks, locally made goods, and lots of delicious blue crab delicacies.

Stone Crab Jam; 11/4/23; 12-10pm
Sponsored by The Kings Bay Rotary, don’t miss this street festival featuring fresh stone crabs, beer and wine, and live music on three stages!

Home

Homosassa Arts, Crafts, & Seafood Festival 11/11 9-5; 11/12 9-30
Head to historic Old Homosassa for fresh seafood, a juried art show, crafts, and live entertainment.

December

Celebration of Lights
Enjoy thousands of sparkling lights in this synchronized holiday sound and light show sponsored by the Friends of Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park.

Check Park’s website…

Crystal River Christmas Tree Lighting Festival 12/1/23 5-9pm; CR Town Square
The City of Crystal Presents a Christmas tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Downtown Crystal River is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland, complete with food and drinks, falling snow, and a visit from Santa!

https://www.crystalriverfl.org/special/page/christmas-tree-lighting-festival

Fort Cooper Nights of Lights
Fort Cooper State Park will be decked out in lights for this must-see holiday event. Walk under a canopy of sparkling lights, make your own s’mores, and enjoy holiday music and refreshments.

https://thefriendsoffortcooper.com/

Homosassa River Christmas Boat Parade
A dazzling way to celebrate the holidays with your family. Watch as holiday-themed boats parade down the Homosassa waterfront.

http://www.macraesofhomosassa.com/

Light Up the Lake Inverness 12/3/23 5-9 pm; Liberty Park
Kids will love this Christmas celebration in Inverness, featuring train rides, live music, light displays and a visit from Santa too!

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/528/Light-Up-the-Lake

January

Florida Manatee Festival 1/13-14; 2024
The annual Florida Manatee Festival returns to Crystal River. Featuring manatee tours, music, food vendors, a beer and wine garden, and local fine arts and crafts.

https://www.gomanateefest.com/

February

Ozello Craft Show & Chili Cookoff
Who will win the annual chili cookoff? This family-friendly event features a craft show and lots of delicious chili to sample.

March

Shrimp-a-Palooza
An annual festival presented by The Rotary Club of Homosassa Charitable Foundation. Join thousands of party goers for a day of food, fun, and live music.

Fort Cooper Days
A historical reenactment from the Second Seminole War. See the battle, experience authentic weapons and uniforms, and enjoy food and refreshments.

https://thefriendsoffortcooper.com/?page_id=65

Clean Air Ride
This bike ride on the Withlacoochee State Trail benefits the Key Training Center. With four distances ranging from 14 to 100 miles, there’s a way for participants of all skill levels and abilities to join in the fun!

http://www.cleanairride.com/

Inverness Big Bass Classic 3/11/24 Anglers will love this annual bass fishing tournament which pays out $1,000 in prizes to the biggest catch every hour!

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/525/Big-Bass-Classic

Floral City Strawberry Festival
Celebrate local producers with fresh and delicious strawberry shortcakes

Floral City Heritage Days 3/25/23

Held on the first weekend of December, this fun and educational event showcases Floral City’s early days. Guests will enjoy period dress, demonstrations, horse cart rides, historic home tours, and more.

Inverness St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Inverness knows how to do St. Patrick’s Day right! Paint the town green with a pub crawl, free live music, and much more.

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/552/St-Patricks-Parade

St. Patrick’s Day on Citrus Avenue 3/17/24 10 am
Wear your green and celebrate all things Irish with a parade, live music, and much more on Citrus Avenue.

https://www.crystalriverfl.org/special/page/special-events

April

Fort Cooper Bluegrass Festival
Bring your lawn chair and head to Fort Cooper State Park for live bluegrass, food, drinks, and craft vendors under the shady canopy of oak trees.

Home

Taste of Inverness
A food and beer festival in Inverness, featuring a competition for area chefs. Experience the food and fun with live music, arts vendors, and more.

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/551/Taste-of-Inverness

The Third Annual Cake by the Lake 5K and One Mile Cakewalk will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2024 on the Withlacoochee State Trail! Both events start at Liberty Park in Inverness.

https://www.fotwst.org/copy-of-about-us-4

May

June

Homosassa River Fireworks Fest & Poker Run
An all-day poker run on the Homosassa River followed by a brilliant fireworks display make for a day of outdoor fun for the entire family!

https://www.floridacrackerriversideresort.com/ July

Inverness Patriotic Evening
Celebrate the 4th of July in Inverness with a stunning fireworks display over Lake Henderson and live music.

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/550/Patriotic-Evening

4th of July Celebration
Crystal River’s annual 4th of July celebration takes place at Kings Bay Park and includes a parade, fireworks, live entertainment, food, beer, and wine – and more!

https://www.crystalriverfl.org/special/page/special-events

August

Pine Street Jam & Parrothead Party Inverness

Calling all Jimmy Buffet fans! This parrot-themed downtown street party in Inverness features live music, food vendors, beer, and more!

https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/events/

senior living • October 9, 2023

Citrus County Assisted Living/Nursing Homes

by Linda Thomas

This week’s blog was inspired by a fellow golfing girlfriend, who spent some time at Grand Living to recuperate from her recent surgery. She suggested I do a blog on the place… that place is amazing!

I did have second thoughts about, well maybe I should feature a couple of assisted living places, but after Googling , “assisted living” in Citrus County, I found 36 places! I thought, for some reason, Grand Living might just be something extra special. (links to all 36 included at end).

From the minute I walked in the door… no way did it remind me of any places my mom had to stay when she was in nursing homes and assisted living places. When you walk to the front door, you feel you have entered a luxurious hotel lobby. With a grand sitting area, there is a little library off to the front, and of course, a welcome desk. There’s over 200,000 living square feet in the facility. There are 181 residents and they have very few apartment vacancies at this point.

Picture:

Three meals a day are provided even with kitchen appliances and washer and dryers included in the living apartments. Two dining areas are provided for breakfast and lunch. Dinner is served in a formal dining area. A private dining room is available for family gatherings. Residents choose their food restaurant-style from a menu. Dinner includes a nightly special.

The activities include crafts/arts: ( ie watercolor, card making etc.); physical: daily water aerobics and a fitness center with a full time fitness director; entertainment: including pool parties, movies in the theater, live entertainment, special occasion parties and a daily Happy Hour. The September calendar showed 7 special events a day including games: mahjong, Rummikub, Bingo, Name That Tune, Scrabble, Penny Poker, Mexican Train, Show Me the Money, etc. ( i scanned half the September calendar it is so large.

Social calendar:Grand Living Cal

Transportation is available for shopping, church services. Church services and Bible Studies are held on site, as well as weekly Holy Communion.

Apartments from Studio to 1-2 bedrooms are available. Priced monthly from $4700 a to over $7000. The amenities include a weekly cleaning service, a medical plan/assistance if needed. They do have a memory wing which we did not visit. If needed, a medical is set up for this needing assistance. Pet friendly facility also.

I did get to see a one bedroom apartment ,and a studio apartment. Both and were very tastefully decorated. You can bring some of your own furniture . I have brochures from the facility if you would like to see them. Check out their website.

If money is not an object, and you like to

Keep busy… this is the place for you… whether you are healthy or needing assistance.

Link to

Grand Living website: www.grandliving.com

COMING TO THE AREA:

I thought I would also research Clear Sky Rehabilitation Hospital (“Authentic, Transformative Rehabilitative Care’)

website: https://clearskyhealth.com/lecanto/\

At ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Lecanto, we’re dedicated to healing and transforming the lives of individuals living with disabling injuries or illnesses.

We help you recover to your fullest abilities, providing a specialized level of rehabilitative care that’s available only at medical rehabilitation hospitals.

Our hospital includes:

Physician-led, inpatient rehabilitative services
24/7 rehabilitative nursing care
36 private patient rooms
Treatments for strokes, brain injuries, hip fractures, spinal injuries, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and other medically-complex conditions such as COVID-19
Specialized services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy; rehabilitative nursing; case management; respiratory therapy; dietary services; wound care; and more
A rehabilitation gym with specialized equipment and one-on-one therapy
Outside therapeutic courtyard, providing various walking terrains
Patient transport van
Easy access to free parking
Advanced staff training and certifications
100+ employees
Pre-approved insurance and Medicare coverage

What sets us apart?

Highly Trained Team
Patients set individual goals with a physician-led interdisciplinary team, including physical, speech, and occupational therapists; rehabilitation nurses; case managers; respiratory therapists; dietitians; and other specially trained healthcare professionals.

Specialized Equipment
We offer advanced, evidence-based treatments using specialized equipment in our rehabilitative gym to provide you with a successful recovery and quick return home.

State-of-the-Art Facility
Our hospital features all private rooms, a rehabilitative gym with specialized equipment, a dining room with a dedicated chef and food service staff, and an activity of daily living space to allow patients to receive therapy treatments in rooms that emulate home conditions.

Integrative Approach
Specialized services, like our comprehensive stroke rehabilitation program, provide the highest, individualized standards of care to each patient. Following hospital care, we continue to work with you to remain a partner in your healthcare to allow the best opportunity for recovery.

Link To Citrus County assisted and nursing homes:

https://www.countyoffice.org/fl-citrus-county-assisted-living-nursing-home/

Uncategorized • September 30, 2023

Citrus County Summer Restaurant UPDATE 2023

by Linda Thomas

Time to check out the area restaurants. Some new ones to report on too! (Check the Crystal River/Citrus Ave restaurants (like Amy’s) are till closed from last hurricane.) I also include full directory by area in pdf format for ease in printing.

NEW:

Crystal River, A J ’s Deli and Catering:789 NE 5th St, “An Epicurean Experience involving specialty meats, breads and side dishes that is sure to delight” 352-228-8171; //ajsdeli1.com/; Trying this place soon. Not open Saturday or Sunday.

Lecanto, Cafe Do now called Cafe Aromas in Lecanto on Hwy 44: Former Little Italy Chef opened his new business. Always good food! Now serve wine and beer. They have a facebook page with connection to daily specials. (also featured in Chronicle this week).

299 Hwy 44, 353-503–9940; Lecanto

Mikang Sushi, Hernando, 2492 N Heritage Oaks Path, Mon-Sat 11-9; Closed Sunday; Have not been there yet. https://www.mikangsushi.com/ 352-513-3588

Darrell’s Diner (former Johnny Cakes n Steaks Homestyle Restaurant.) It’s just south of Inverness before you get to Floral City. A brightly decorated restaurant, it is a typical neighborhood diner. We previously split a club sandwich and it was good. 859 S US Highway 41; (352) 765-3326;

Dinners:

Crab Plant, Crystal River. Nice view. Food okay. Spicy clam chowder, good grilled grouper, deep fried crab cakes good; also good beans, cole slaw, and potato salad. I hear the fish reuben is good. They also have a seafood store. Check their hours of operation.

BD Club: Fine Friday night dining: Almost everyone complained that the food was too salty. I had the cheese ravioli and there was enough to bring home for leftovers. The special that night was, shrimp ettouffe with crawfish okay. The braised beef, although a good portion, again was very salty. Service was slow and food lukewarm for most part.

Small Bites night- Good: Chicken quesadilla, hot dog, peel and eat shrimp.

Oscar Penn’s: one of our favorite restaurants: several people had the delicious Chilean Seabass (it is pricey at $42.) A seafood pasta was very good and enough to bring leftovers home. I had that she crab soup and Dungeness crab cakes were excellent. Joan had the soup and caprese salad. Inverness.

Dan’s Clam: I had the 1 pound lobster (priced at $32). Several people had the fried shrimp (one orders it with light batter) and I think Dan’s has best fried shrimp round here. The burgers are good.. Two had the fried haddock basket and said it was good including the french fries and coleslaw. Crystal River

Charlies Fish House: This restaurant is now owned by someone new. Eventually, the chef from Katch Twenty Two will be returning to the area to be the chef there. We did have a good dinner there this week. Three people had the grouper with different sides and it was excellent. I had the seafood platter with a broiled scallops, shrimp. catfish, fried clams…with the sides, it was a lot of food. The restaurant will eventually close for remodeling. It has a nice waterview. Crystal River

Charlies Seafood Restaurant

Charlies view

seafood platter

Charlies grouper mashed potato

Charlies grouper with fries
and vegs

Seafood Seller (Cajun Jimmy’s): Fresh seafood to buy in their store, but the hit is their restaurant with its cajun influence. Art always has mahi. I love the clam chowder and crab cakes:spicy but good. Joan had a salad and peel and eat shrimp. Lloyd likes the grouper sandwich and gumbo. Crystal River

Lunches:

New England Cafe : Yummy lobster seafood salad (hold the bun). Best tuna melt around. Beverly Hills

Jimmy T’s : Excellent chicken soup everyday…best Reuben and good chicken salad. Hernando

Crystal River Coney Island : several kinds of hotdogs. Art likes coney sauce and I like the traditional chili sauce. Chopped pork sandwich is very good and comes with grilled corn on the cob.

Cattledogs Roasters: We like their cranberry pecan chicken salad on fresh pumpernickel. Inverness, Hernando, Crystal River

Black Diamond: I like the quesadilla. Brunch on Sunday is good. Breakfast includes muffin, fruit and then several entree choices. I have them create an omelet for me each Sunday.

BD omelet brunch

BD muffin

RETURNING:

Joe’s Family Restaurant: Will reopen this fall 2023 at 1741 Hwy 41 (next to the skating rink.) It is a very popular restaurant for all meals and we have had great lunches-never been there for breakfast or dinner. 352-726-1688; https://www.facebook.com/joesfamilyrestaurant Inverness

Links to full restaurant directory by area:

Inverness 10:2023 up Restaurant

Homosassa Eatries 2023

Crystal River2 06:23 Restaurants

Lecanto, Bev Hills, Hernando Restaunts 2023

Aging Roofs and Homeowner’s Insurance

Citrus County Early Winter Restaurant Update

Citrus County Florida: Where to Shop

Citrus County Growing Population

Who To Call for Home Services Citrus County

Is Your Home in “Scary” Shape?

Building a Financial Future

Citrus County Festivals 2023-2024

Citrus County Assisted Living/Nursing Homes

Citrus County Summer Restaurant UPDATE 2023

Home

Properties

About Me

Blog

Neighborhood News