Four applications have been submitted for the vacant Town Council seat, according to Town Clerk Eva Cooper Hapeman. Two of the applicants are non-residents of the Town, and two are residents. The resident applicants are William P. Heath and Ray Royce. A full story on the interested parties will be published next week.
Council is scheduled to make the appointment at the May 11 Town Council meeting.
This isn’t just a café. It’s something more personal.
Ley, who spent years working in the health industry, made the decision last year to step away from that career and build something of her own. What she’s creating is Cuban Sabor, a bakery and cafe’ that is about connection, tradition, and intention.
Many of the recipes that will appear on the menu come from people who matter most to her—family members and close friends whose dishes have been passed down and shared over time. It’s not a concept built from scratch; it’s one built from memory.
She and her husband and partner, Adoni Chao, who came to the United States two decades ago, moved to Lake Placid about a year ago. Together, they’re building Cuban Sabor as a true family operation, with relatives contributing in ways both big and small—from helping shape the space to offering recipes and ideas.
That sense of family carries into the atmosphere they’re trying to create.
Inside, the café is warm and thoughtful that encourages people to sit, talk, and stay awhile. Cuban Sabor is meant to be a place where people gather and linger.
Even in its current state—still waiting on final inspections—the details are in place. The bakery case stands ready for what’s coming next: fresh pastries, Cuban coffee, and a menu built around both tradition and daily creativity, with rotating specials and seasonal desserts.
When the doors open, the operation will be simple. At least initially, Ley and Chao will run the business themselves, with hours planned for 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., six days a week. They’re asking for patience as they find their rhythm. They are grateful and encouraged for the positive feedback they have received once their plans were announced.
What they’re building isn’t designed to feel polished on day one. It’s designed to feel real.
Cuban Sabor is expected to open May 8, pending final DBPR inspections. When it does, Ley and Chao hope it becomes exactly what they’ve been working toward—a place where the community can gather, linger, and feel at home.
Cuban Sabor is located at 9 South Main Avenue.
The interviews are set for Monday, May 11 at 9:00 a.m. at Okeechobee City Hall, where city officials have indicated the meeting may also include contract negotiations.
The position is being filled following the planned retirement of current City Administrator Gary Ritter, who announced in December his intent to step down in June after serving in the role since 2021.
Schneider has been with the Lake Placid Police Department since 1997 and became chief in June 2023.
Schneider confirmed his interest in the position, describing it as part of his long-term professional transition.
“My interest in this position is to move forward in my career,” Schneider said. “I have loved working here but feel as I approach the end of my D.R.O.P. (Florida Deferred Retirement Option Program) that I need to move forward with my professional growth. I have not made any decision at this point to leave.”
Schneider also addressed potential concerns about local impact.
“There is a succession plan in place. I have made no plan at this point to leave,” he said.
He noted that his consideration of the position is tied to an eventual, expected transition.
“At this point I am gauging my marketability for my inevitable departure as I am already retired and in the D.R.O.P. program (Florida Deferred Retirement Option Program) and will have to leave at the end of my remaining time,” Schneider said.
Mayor Colleen Charles said she is aware of Chief Schneider’s interview and supports town employees as they pursue professional growth.
The other candidates scheduled to interview include:
The Lake Placid Town Administrator was unavailable for comment.
While no hiring decision has been announced, the outcome of the interview process could have local implications if Schneider is selected and ultimately accepts the position.
No timeline for a final decision has been publicly released.
The Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce is entering a period of transition, with the departure of both the Executive Director and Administrative Assistant.
Executive Director Jennifer Bush has announced she will be stepping down after nearly seven years in the role. During her tenure, Bush helped guide the organization through a period of growth, with a focus on supporting local businesses and strengthening community connections. A longtime Lake Placid resident, she has been a visible presence in Chamber initiatives and events.
In a separate announcement, the Chamber also confirmed that Administrative Assistant Nicole Shrout will also be leaving her position after more than six years. Her role has included day-to-day office operations, member support, and organizational coordination.
As a result, the Chamber is now seeking a both an Executive Director and full-time Administrative Assistant. More information about both positions may be found by visiting: https://www.lpfla.com/newsletter
Twice Butter (381 E. Interlake) has a full day of activities planned this Friday to celebrate One Year. Festivities begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9am with the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce and continue throughout the day.
The Lake Placid Poetry Trail was formally introduced Saturday, April 25, during an unveiling event held at the Lake Placid Women’s Club facility downtown. The project, a collaboration between the GFWC Lake Placid Women’s Club and the Legacy Foundation, places student-written poetry in public spaces throughout town, with installations planned at murals throughout town.
The first poem unveiled was written by Aydon Gonzales, an eighth-grade student at Crane Brook Academy. His poem, “Where We Can Go,” is now displayed on a permanent outdoor sign. Each poem includes a QR code that sends visitors to a recording of the students reading their work.
The Poetry Trail was developed through a student poetry contest open to Lake Placid students in grades 3 through 12. More than 120 poems were submitted. Two independent judges selected the poems chosen for the displays.
Students recognized as 2026 winners include:
Each student was introduced during the event as part of the unveiling program.
The project is expected to expand over time as additional locations become available and new student work is selected. Initial installations are limited, with additional placements planned in future phases. The poems are being installed near existing murals throughout town. Businesses are being asked to partner by allowing a post to be placed near the mural on their building. Businesses may also sponsor the fabrication and installation of the sign for $200, with recognition included on the installation. Anyone nterested in participating can contact Kathy Sorenson at 863-243-1025 for more information.
The Wele Youth Program, created by HPNC, serves underserved students in grades 10 through 12 in Highlands County. While the camps include activities, the primary focus is on workshops covering conflict resolution, communication, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
Students are introduced to topics such as writing a business plan, creating a proposal “deck,” understanding savings options, investments, and balance sheets. Program organizers say their goal is to teach about “wealth,” not just money.
The program also provides scholarships for students who meet the criteria, along with opportunities to earn community service hours and receive referral letters for college or school.
Organizers note that some parents may see the camps as simply a day of activities, but emphasize the value of the lessons being taught.
Saturday’s festival will include food trucks, treats, and additional activities, and is free to attend.
This event is sponsored by the Highway Park Neighborhood Council & Stand Together Never Alone. Donations to their efforts are tax deductible. For more information, 863-840-2995.
Our first Face of Lake Placid is arguably one of the most recognized faces at Publix!
If you’ve shopped at Publix in Lake Placid, there’s a good chance you know Tammy—whether by name or simply by the line you choose. For nearly 29 years, she’s been a steady presence at the register. Some will wait a little longer just to check out with her.
Always wearing a smile and known for her bright, easy chuckle, here are some fun things to know about Tammy!
What is your favorite word?
Whatever.
What is your least favorite word?
Can’t.
What is your favorite sound?
Birds.
What is your least favorite sound?
Crying.
What is your favorite curse word?
S*!t
If you were reincarnated as an animal, what would it be?
A dog.
When you are greeted at the pearly gates, what would you like to hear God say?
Welcome home.
Lake Placid High’s Night of the Arts is a great chance for the community to show up for local students. Make plans to attend and see just how much talent is here in Lake Placid!
