Central Florida Lifestyle April 2022 Winter Garden

OA K L A N D | C L E R M O N T | A P O P K A

Winter Garden LIFESTYLE ®

APRIL 2022

READY to BLOOM: Gardening Tips

INSIDE

MEET THE

CUTEST PETS TOP

SPRING CLEANING HACKS HOME REDESIGN IDEAS www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

+ LETTER From the Publisher

Put a Little Spring in Your Step Spring! It’s a season all right, but our team at Central Florida Lifestyle is hoping that this season is the reason that you SPRING into your best health – it’s never too late!

Personally, I am beyond grateful to be able to SPRING into action…new hip and all! (Huge shout out to AdventHealth and the amazing team at Rothman Orthopedics!) The photo of me here is the first step I took with my new hip, and it is a moment I will never forget.

Spring is about new beginnings and fresh starts, and every day we are gifted with both. In this issue, we hope that you find tips on making the most of your garden, how to spring into your best health, best spring-cleaning hacks and the newest ideas in home redesign to give your home look a refresh.

You’ll also find ways Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida serves children with mental health, intellectual/developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges, and their families. As we look to the summer months, you’ll find our annual summer camp guide, and don’t miss an incredible feature on Winter Garden’s historic Edgewater Hotel.

As we bloom and grow into our 20th year, we know that we could not do it without our loyal community partners and advertisers. Thank you for watering our garden and helping us bloom into what we are today.

CEO/PUBLISHER Kristi Gomen Kristi@KarstMediaGroup.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kaitlyn Fusco Kaitlyn@KarstMediaGroup.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Alexis George Alexis@KarstMediaGroup.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Feland Michael Caibio EDITORIAL EDITORIAL INTERN Maya James WRITERS Tarre Beach, Michael Brehne, Stina D’Uva, Kristen Jackson, Maya James, Eric Schreck, Don Long, Rich Maladecki, Erica Rudnick Macalintal, Nicole Paskowsky, Austin Arthur

CONTACT US

FOR ADVERTISING INFO

407-449-2022

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

Lifestyle® publications comprises multiple monthly editions, each mailed directly to homes and businesses throughout Central Florida. Lifestyle® publications are published monthly by Karst Media Group. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. ALTAMONTE LIFESTYLE®, COLLEGE PARK LIFESTYLE®, HORIZON WEST LIFESTYLE®, LAKE NONA LIFESTYLE®, METROWEST LIFESTYLE®, OAKLAND LIFESTYLE®, WINDERMERE LIFESTYLE®, WINTER GARDEN LIFESTYLE®, WINTER PARK LIFESTYLE® and CENTRAL FLORIDA LIFESTYLE® are federally registered trademarks. Reproduction or use, in whole or in part, of the contents of this magazine or of the trademarks of Lifestyle® publications without written permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Lifestyle® publications makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. Neither the publishers nor advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found herein, and the publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in ads and/or in paid promotional features. April 2022.

Kristi Gomen CEO/Publisher

To see what’s happening in your area, follow your community Lifestyle Facebook Group!

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+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | April 2022 Departments

Features 6

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YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED

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DANIEL’S CORNER

14

TALK OF THE TOWN

16

HOMESTYLE

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HOMESTYLE

20

DID YOU KNOW

24

HOW YOU CAN HELP

32

EXPERT ADVICE BANKING

34

EXPERT ADVICE LAW

40

LIVING MINDFULLY

44

YOUR LOCAL

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YOUR LOCAL

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SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW

EIGHT WAYS TO HELP YOUR HEALTH BLOOM

Now is the time to renew our commitment to our whole health and wellbeing. Here are eight tips to help you get the most out of the coming spring.

LIFESTYLE’S CUTEST PET WINNERS

You voted for this year’s most adorable pets. Now, it’s time to get to know the winners as well as some equally cute honorable mentions.

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SPRING HOME REDESIGN

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YOUR GUIDE TO 2022 SUMMER CAMPS!

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Your look into the latest kitchen, living room and bathroom trends for 2022.

Here are some of the hottest summer camps around Central Florida. Check CentralFloridaLifetyile.com for a full summer camp guide in your area!

SUPPORT FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES

Lady Bird Lady Bird Gotta Dance

Conversations for Your Community TOP 5 Spring Cleaning Hacks How Does Your Garden Grow?

Meet Matcha, Your New Best Friend Rising from the Ashes

Trusting Tradition with Trustco Bank Your Homeowners Insurance CHECKLIST Make Way for Mindfulness

Cycling in West Orange – Great for mental and physical health Getting Through the Business Summer Successfully

For the Love of Writing

As mental health challenges escalate, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida offers hope for youth with autism.

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PRESERVING OUR HISTORY

Winter Garden resident Austin Arthur shares his experience at the Historic Edgewater Hotel.

THE PERFECT MATCH

Learn about Lake Nona Performance Club’s partnership with Chopra Global.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Web Life Go to CentralFloridaLifestyle.com to see what’s happening near you!

Highly Honored Dentist OF THE ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY

HHHHH

5 STARS ON GOOGLE! Dr. Phan and staff were amazing and made me feel safe, calm and comfortable.

The dental staff was dressed in full medical grade Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and double masked. Every precaution was taken in ensuring a safe and clean environment from allowing only one patient in the lobby at a time to thoroughly disinfecting every surface area between patients to requiring the use of hand sanitizer and a temperature check before being seen. The level of care and attentiveness exhibited by the entire staff was nothing short of exceptional.

-Tina Le

Dr. Phan earned the prestigious Mastership Award from The Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), placing him among the 2% of general dentists throughout the United States and Canada that hold this title.

7824 LAKE UNDERHILL RD., #G ORLANDO, FL 32822 (407) 282-7498 WWW.PHANTASTICSMILE.COM

$99

for new patient exam, x-rays & initial cleaning The $99 special offer is for new patients without insurance.

Not valid with any other offer. Good through 4/30/2022.

Ways to Help Your Health Bloom Spring is in the air, signaling a season of warmer weather, longer days and new beginnings. We think of spring as a time full of promise and hope. A chance to refresh our minds, strengthen our bodies and nurture our spirits. An opportunity to renew our commitment to our whole health and well-being.

One of the best ways to do this is by keeping regular appointments with your primary care provider (PCP). Your PCP looks after every aspect of your health and helps you feel your best all season long.

Here are eight tips to help you get the most out of the coming spring.

1. Start the season off right with a wellness exam.

As your regular physician, your PCP knows you better than any other provider and is familiar with your baseline health measurements. That means they can quickly determine when something isn’t right. They specialize in getting you the right treatments at the right time based on your personal health goals, medical history and preferences. As we welcome the blossoming flowers of spring, schedule a wellness visit with your PCP and make sure your health is ready to bloom.

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2. Refresh your mindset.

Just as you deep clean your home every spring, you can also use this time to declutter your mind.

Your PCP can help you focus on ways to improve your outlook, nourish your psychological needs, and eliminate stress and anxiety.

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3. Spring into action.

We all know that exercise is the key to good health. Get moving for at least 30 minutes per day. Your PCP can help put together an exercise routine that’s tailored to your specific needs.

You won’t believe how much better you’ll feel.

4. Savor the healthy foods of spring.

As temperatures rise, seasonal spring produce begins to fill the grocery store shelves. Add fresh, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet such as asparagus, strawberries, radishes, artichokes and leeks. Ask your doctor for diet recommendations based upon the results of your physical.

5. Quench your thirst for life.

Spring can sometimes feel like summertime under the Florida sun. Staying properly hydrated is the key to good physical and mental health. Your physican will tell you that most people do not drink enough water. Challenge yourself to drink 64 ounces of water a day for a week and see how you feel.

6. Take a spring break.

Get screened this spring.

A Quick Guide to Wellness Exams Your primary care physician or advanced practice provider can ensure you are on track with preventive health screenings and vaccines that are important at your current stage of life.* 20’s

• Blood pressure • Skin cancer 30’s

• Mental health • Pap smear

• Body mass index (BMI) • Cholesterol

• Immunizations • Full metabolic panel

40’s

• Heart health • Colorectal • Cholesterol screening • Mammogram 50’s • Cognitive • Shingles vaccine assessment • Vision exam • Joint/bone density

Everyone is eager to get out and have fun this time of year. But, don’t forget to balance that energy with a proper sleep schedule. Most people should get seven to eight hours of sleep a night. If you still wake up tired, you might have a treatable sleep disorder. Alert your PCP and get the care you need to protect your health.

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7. Be safe in the springtime sunshine.

Prioritize your health all season long.

As the weather warms, it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors. But, prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin cells. Ask your physician about your risk for skin cancer and when to get a skin cancer exam. And, make it a practice to wear a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses if you’re going to be out all day under the sun.

8. Keep allergies at bay.

Millions of Americans suffer from allergies, and springtime is the prime season for tree pollen and a host of other allergens in Florida. Allergies can make your life miserable. Your PCP can schedule a comprehensive test to determine what you are allergic to and how best to manage your symptoms.

• Colorectal and prostate cancer screening • Cholesterol

• Bone mineral density (BMD) • Hearing test

* This is not intended to be a complete list. Ask your physician about other important health screenings and vaccines that you should have, and when.

If you don’t have a primary care physician you visit regularly, you aren’t getting the health screenings you need to avoid potentially serious illnesses like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems or cancer. Your PCP is your source for preventive medical care, and ensures the consistent, coordinated care you deserve. And in most cases, your out-of-pocket cost per visit is much lower than for a trip to the emergency room or an urgent care clinic.

To book annual wellness visits for you and your family, call 407-401-7297 or visit CentralFloridaPrimaryCare.com.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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3/21/22 3:29 PM

Springtime is the right time to refresh your body, mind and spirit.

Visit your primary care provider to keep your whole health on track.

Spring has sprung and it’s a great time to prioritize your health by scheduling your yearly wellness exams with your primary care provider (PCP). For those who do not already have a PCP, choosing one is the best way to ensure your long-term health and well-being.

Your PCP will treat and build a caring relationship with every member of your family. Their main goal is to manage your overall health care through regular checkups, preventative screenings and referrals to medical specialists when needed.

A PCP is always there to help you make the right decisions about treatment and care.

Whole-Person Care PCPs train in almost all areas of medicine. They can treat acute health problems like sinus infections and perform minor procedures such as draining an abscess. They treat you and your family during all stages of life and not only care for your physical well-being, but your emotional health as well.

The Health History Advantage Because you see your PCP regularly, they get to know your health history. With this information, along with your relatives’ health history, they can screen for symptoms of serious diseases, which can help catch life-threatening conditions while they are still treatable.

The Power of Education and Prevention A proactive PCP will educate you on how to prevent illnesses and diseases. They can tailor helpful information that fits your unique needs and goals.

Your Point Person for Specialty Care Your PCP can refer you to specialists if you need them such as cardiologists or orthopedists.

Because your doctor knows you well, they can match you to someone who fits your needs and personality. They coordinate your care, guide you through next steps and stay in constant contact with the specialist.

Personalized Chronic Health Management When you’re dealing with a chronic health problem like diabetes or arthritis, it helps to have a PCP by your side. Your PCP specializes in helping you monitor an ongoing health condition, so you can better manage your chronic disease.

Because of routine tests and regular visits, they know how to help you stay focused on self-care.

A PCP for All Seasons

Begin your journey to whole-person health by scheduling an appointment with a primary care provider at CentralFloridaPrimaryCare.com or call 407-401-7297.

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Routine Screenings That Can Save Your Life Simple, regular screenings such as blood pressure, cholesterol, breast cancer and colon cancer can help catch medical issues before they develop into serious problems. Over time, your PCP updates your records and learns about your health habits, history, personality and lifestyle — making it easier to spot changes in your health.

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3/15/22 9:39 AM

+ YOU ASKED We Answered

Lady Bird Lady Bird

Learn how the Lady Bird Deed can automatically transfer a property to new owners, after the homeowner’s death, without the need for probate.

By Kristen Jackson, Jackson Law P.A.

Q:

A:

Isn’t there a method in which people, upon their death, can transfer title of their home to a beneficiary without the need of hiring an attorney for probate?

From your childhood do you remember, “Ladybird, Ladybird, fly away home, your house is on fire and your children are burning”? It is from the early childlore of England wherein a Ladybird is the name of an insect called a Ladybug and as goes the childlore rhyme here in the United States, “Ladybug, Ladybug, fly away…!”

My grandmother may have just as well set fire to her home and let it burn, as she failed to transfer it into a protected title or deed that automatically transferred it to her beneficiaries upon her death. Also, her failure to pay property taxes resulted in her home being auctioned to the highest bidder on the courthouse steps. How did this happen and how did I learn of the sale? When my grandmother passed away, I was neither aware that she owned her own home nor that a property tax lien had been filed. Immediately prior to her death the tax lienor filed foreclosure to collect the property tax debt owed by my grandmother.

Because I was deployed to Afghanistan by the army, I did not learn of her passing until 6 months following her death. I received a notice that I was the sole beneficiary of her estate and funds were deposited into the state of Florida’s unclaimed property, the funds from the sale of her home at auction. That is when I first learned my grandmother even owned a home. For me to claim the inheritance, I had to put out yet another fire. I was required to pay an attorney to file probate to prove I was the legal heir to her estate and obtain what was rightfully mine already.

Isn’t there a method in which people, upon their death, can transfer title of their home to a beneficiary without the need of hiring an attorney for probate?

There is. The method was influenced by another ladybird, Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson’s wife. It is known as a “Lady Bird Deed” or “Enhanced Life Estate Deed” and is available in only 5 states of which Florida is one.

Benefits of a Lady Bird or Enhanced Life Estate Deed are

that the deed retains homestead protection; it can serve as a “Last Will” substitute and name one or more beneficiaries; it immediately transfers upon death of the owner to beneficiaries named on the deed; consent of beneficiaries named is not required to change the deed; no probate is required.

Before you put your loved ones or beneficiaries through a

firestorm trying to discover what you owned following your death or impacting and exposing them to sibling disputes, the high cost of probate, visit with an estate planning lawyer today to discuss your best estate planning options and if necessary, take a beneficiary(s) with you if you need help financially.

Kristen Jackson is the founding partner of Jackson Law P.A. (407-363-9020). She is experienced in estate planning, real estate law, business and contract law. Her firm has earned an AV rating by Martindale-Hubbell signifying the highest level of professional excellence as obtained through opinions from members of the bar and judiciary. For more information, visit www.JacksonFloridaRealtor.com

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

+ DANIEL’S Corner

Gotta Dance PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAREY SHEFFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

This Dr. Phillips High School student loves to make audiences smile.

By Tarre Beach

A

s Adrian “AJ” De Leon, a senior at Dr. Phillips High School tells it, he had no choice but to become a dancer. “My mom taught dance,” he says. “I’ve basically been dancing since I was in the womb.”

De Leon didn’t start his formal dance education until he was three years old. Now he can do tap, hip-hop, jazz, modern and ballet. And while he might have begun his dancing career at the encouragement of his mother, he has continued it—and added singing and acting along the way— because he loves to bring happiness to others.

In fifth grade, De Leon got what he calls his “first real taste” of the joy of performing when he was cast as a featured tap dancer in the Orlando Repertory Theatre’s A Christmas Story.

“It was amazing. I could see these kids in the audience smiling ear to ear. I just loved being able to make people happy by performing,” De Leon says.

Unfortunately, during the pandemic Dr. Phillips High School students were unable to perform for a live audience. Instead, student productions were filmed and shared with the community. “We still gave

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

it our all,” De Leon says. “But it just wasn’t the same as when you get that energy reflected back to you from the audience.”

Driven by his dream to be an actor/singer/dancer, De Leon admits it hasn’t been all roses and applause along the way.

Last year De Leon had to pull back from performing at school due to his grades slipping. During that challenging time, De Leon remembered something his mom said: “When one door closes, another one opens.”

Just when De Leon was looking at a closed door, the Daniel Mills Apprenticeship program showed up. He auditioned and was offered an apprenticeship, allowing him to continue putting smiles on faces.

De Leon says he loves working with Joe Walsh, the artistic director of the Garden Theatre. “I like how Joe has us do check-ins before we start. I find it really helpful to take a beat before getting into performance mode,” De Leon says. Now nearing the end of his senior year, De Leon has improved his grades and continues to get professional performance experience.

Recently De Leon made audition tapes to apply for performing art programs at schools such as University of Florida, Pace University, Shenandoah University, and University of Alabama at Birmingham. In addition to showcasing his dancing, singing, and acting abilities in his audition tapes, he included a “wild card” performance: raping Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.”

De Leon says rehearsing for his college audition tapes helped him do more than just learn a new skill. He says it may also help his health. “I have asthma. It’s not really bad,” De Leon says. “But I believe all these years of performing has helped me increase my endurance and stamina. Practicing rapping gave me another way to work on my breathing technique, which I think could one day help put an end to my asthma.”

One Heart on Fire Golf Tournament April 29, 2022

Falcon’s Fire Golf Club 3200 Seralago Blvd.

Kissimmee, FL 34746 Proceeds from the tournament are donated to One Heart for Women and Children.

Thank you to Falcon’s Fire for your continued support!

Event Sponsor: For more information or to register online, visit www.oneheartforwomenandchildren.org

Dreams Take Flight Skydiving Fundraiser

May 15, 2022

Skydive Space Center 476 N. Williams Ave. Titusville, FL 32796 We need 50 jumpers to jump with us from 18,000 ft. in the air! Each jumper must raise $1,500 to participate.

To sign-up, email: HelpOneHeart@gmail.com @OneHeartMatters

+ TALK of the Town

The Wheels Are Turning

By Rich Maladecki

The start of a new season means there are new experiences to be had. Now’s the time to reflect, plan, act and implement some new ideas into your lifestyle!

New “Date Night” idea: Please plan a relaxing evening at the recently opened Lake Nona Wave Hotel. This exciting, new property features an interesting outdoors Sculpture Garden, an “eye opening” living room inspired lobby area and two restaurants and bars. For added information, please connect to its website: www. lakenonawavehotel.com.

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching - it may be time to plan activities for this Sunday, May 8th Holiday!

Do you remember the old saying: “April Showers Bring May Flowers”? Do these words hold true today, in Central Florida? Stay tuned!

Guessing Game: With the continued increases at the gas pumps, it might be interesting to predict the price of gas, per gallon for the Fourth of July Holiday. My thought: $5.99. (Hope I’m wrong). What’s your guess???

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Let’s consider a small or large family project for Earth Day 2022. Ideas include planting a tree, starting a garden, or installing a bird feeder. Other past successes include cleaning a beach, a stream, or your community park. Remember, Earth Day 2022 is Friday, April 22 (Theme for this year: Together, we must invest in Our Planet).

It’s nearly time to finalize and submit your federal taxes.

Remember: Monday, April 18 is Tax Day 2022.

Have you experienced the new I-4 Express Lanes? For six l-o-n-g years, Central Florida commuters have tolerated this needed expansion project — let’s hope this completed widening program helps with our daily commute!!!

PRESENTED

&

BY:

Residences

AUTISM AWARENESS CAR & TRUCK SHOW SATURDAY APRIL 23RD - 4PM

All Makes & Models Welcome Entry Fee $30.00 VIP Parking / $20.00 Show Car Lot Parking 100% of proceeds benefit the Autism Society of Greater Orlando

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SPECTATORS, FRIENDS & FAMILY FREE ADMISSION

PRESENTED BY:

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STREET PARTY & CELEBRATION

MAY 5TH “THE RUNDOWN” LIVE! Including a Special Tribute Set to “Mana”, Latin America’s #1 Selling Rock Band!

FREE ADMISSION Outdoor Event / Rain or Shine

“DJ GABRIEL” Spinning the very best Latin Pop, Merengue, Salsa, Bachata & More!

STREET PERFORMERS INCLUDING “THE TRES AMIGOS” FOOD & BEVERAGE SPECIALS INCLUDING MARGARITAS & MOJITOS

+ HOMESTYLE Spring Cleaning

TOP 5 Spring Cleaning Hacks Cleaning just got a little easier.

By Erica Rudnick Macalintal

S

pring has sprung! The equinox in mid-March makes it official, but Floridians know that spring begins in late February when the powdery-yellow cast begins to coat cars. Given that the air is full of allergens, now is a good time to clear it with spring cleaning. While this can be overwhelming, here are some hacks for making it easier:

Do a good purge.

Some people call this decluttering, but really what you are shooting for is a bigger-than-usual effort to get rid of stuff that has accumulated over the year(s). It may or may not spark joy, but if you haven’t touched or looked at something in over 6 months (and it’s not an heirloom) put it in the to-go pile. Bonus tip: Donate gently used clothing or other items to local charities like The Salvation Army and keep the receipts for tax purposes.

Don’t clean room by room.

This is usually where people get trapped and discouraged; they hyper focus all their energy on one space and lose steam before they can get to the others. A better way to clean is by task. Tackle all the surfaces, then the beds, then the floors, etc. This way, you have incentive to move from one room to the other and if you run out of time, at least each room has gotten some attention.

Wash your linens.

A good way to cozy up any home is by including throw blankets, rugs, and pillows, but these can also become dusty and dirty over time. Washing them is a good way to spruce things up. Bonus tip: If your shower curtains are cloth, you can wash them AND your bathmats to give your bathroom an inexpensive facelift (however, please make sure you check the tags on any linens for cleaning instructions to avoid damage).

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Open the windows (ALL of them).

Pollen can travel from outdoors into your home via your shoes and clothes, where it then gets trapped circulating through your air-conditioned space. Open the windows to get the oxygen flowing through your home and make the air a little fresher. This also helps in eliminating odors that may have occurred that year from burnt popcorn, pet accidents or other smell-causing events.

Don’t forget about the kitchen.

An entire article could be written about properly cleaning kitchen appliances, but this tip focuses exclusively on the consumables in your fridge and pantry. It’s not unusual to chuck shelf-stable products in there and then, well . . . forget about them. Check foods for expiration dates and make sure that you have updated stores of canned goods and water stocked for the upcoming hurricane season, which is right around the corner.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ HOMESTYLE

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Turn your thumb green and make the most of your garden this spring season.

By Nicole Paskowsky

A

great garden is the ultimate mood lifter. It’s a place to plant some seeds, watch them grow, and relax among the rewards. With spring weather in bloom, the prime season for quality gardening has arrived. Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a slice of green space, or a small patio area, a few simple tips can help sharpen your gardening game and maximize the fruits of your labor. After all, the more love you show your garden, the more it will love you back.

Think About Design

The best gardens create visual interest with structural plants that punctuate a landscape of smaller, flowering ones. Evergreen shrubs like box tails, mahonia and juniper, tall grasses, and phormiums make excellent borders, while lower beds of lavender or star jasmine work well for defining seating areas and walkways (and smell nice too). These hearty plants are easy to maintain and ensure your garden remains green all year long.

Veg Out

The first rule of vegetable gardening is to plant what you like, whether crunchy kale or chocolate mint. Next, space your crops of choice accordingly. Plants like sweet corn, cabbage, leafy herbs, and cauliflower require wide rows and sufficient space to develop. Root crops like carrots, beets and onions will be happiest planted in multiple narrow rows. Planting edible crops in wooden raised beds is a great option, allowing you to control soil quality and spend less time digging and weeding.

Go Vertical

Incorporating climbing plants along your fences and railings is a great way to maximize space. Self-clinging ivy varieties can pull themselves up, whereas roses, wisteria and

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

honeysuckle will need an assist from a wire or trellis. Going skyward also works for many fruits and veggies, allowing extra light and reducing disease. Try it with pea tendrils, tomatoes, grapes, and cucumbers, which grab on easily and don’t require heavy support systems.

Consider Containers

Containers let you garden anywhere, even a balcony, courtyard, or windowsill. They also broaden your plant options, especially in smaller spaces or areas with questionable soil. For instance, olive and bay trees, citrus, and flowering petunias, pansies and geraniums can all thrive in containers. Herbs like thyme, oregano, chives, mint, and parsley are convenient to grow in little pots or together in one herbal spread. Remember to add drainage holes and line the bottom with small stones or broken pottery pieces, which prevents soggy soil from damaging plant roots.

Bring in the Bugs

You might not like bugs, but your garden loves them.

Insect habitats attract essential pollinators, and ladybugs, lacewings and beetles help keep bad pests out. Bright hues attract butterflies, and bees love purple, yellow, and blue plants most. A bug hotel made from an old birdhouse filled with items such as rolled cardboard, pinecones, and bricks is a perfect insect retreat. Leave it in a corner that stays a bit wild and overgrown and listen for the peaceful sounds of buzzing.

+ DID You Know

Meet Matcha, Your New Best Friend

By Maya James

W

hen soft, powdery matcha powder hits any beverage, it adds an earthy green tea flavor complemented by smooth milk and sugar. Matcha enthusiasts who appreciate unadulterated matcha in all its glory can even drink ceremonial grade matcha, a slightly more expensive matcha meant to be drunk as-is.

Originating from Japan, matcha is high on the list for summertime beverages especially as people have begun to drink it cold. With cafes flocking to stock unique cold matcha drinks like iced matcha lattes and even matcha ice cream, matcha has cemented itself as the newest superfood with endless versatility just in time for the summer.

Why it’s a Superfood

A superfood is defined by Merriam-Webster as a food that is rich in compounds - in this case, antioxidants - that is considered beneficial to a person's health. Matcha is just that.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

According to a medical journal published by the department of Human Nutrition and Metabolomics at Pomeranian Medical University in Poland, the potent antioxidants found in matcha “originates from the considerable content of catechins, a type of phenolic compound with beneficial effects on human health.”

That’s fancy talk for naturally occurring antioxidants that are found bountifully in things like berries and cocoa. The study says that the antioxidants are responsible for health benefits such as helping to prevent heart diseases and supporting cognitive function, with regular consumption of matcha even having a positive effect on mental health.

Why it’s so Popular

Ice N’ Bites, a cafe on University Boulevard specializing in Asian fusion like boba milk tea and taiyaki has a few menu items bursting with matcha. Items such as matcha milk tea, handmade matcha ice cream, and even an affogato of matcha ice cream

hit with a shot of espresso exist for the quintessential matcha lover.

“We do have more of an Asiancentric focus, so that’s why matcha is quite popular with our customers,” says Natalie Nguyen, an employee at Ice N’ Bites. “It’s quite refreshing, especially with ice cream. We sell a lot during the summer.”

How to Make it at Home with a Chilly Twist

Matcha powder can be bought at any major retail store as well as your local Asian supermarket. For easy access especially as the weather gets hotter, make matcha ice cubes!

Jazz up a boring glass of lemonade or make an iced matcha latte that much more special as the matcha cubes melt into the milk. It’s easy - all you need is matcha powder, water, and a whisk. Whisk the powder into the water - stirring regularly will just let the powder settle at the bottom of the vessel it’s being mixed in - pour into ice cubes, and freeze!

CENTRAL FLORIDA LIFESTYLE’S®

Cutest Pet Contest Sponsored by Promenade at Sunset Walk You voted for this year’s most adorable pets. Now, it’s time to get to know the winners as well as some equally cute honorable mentions.

LUCA

Pet Parents: Kattia Ritchey Community: Downtown Orlando How old is Luca? 5-months-old What breed is Luca? Dachshund What is your favorite story with Luca?

One time I left my closet door open and he took every single shoe and hid them under the bed. He loves my shoes LOL. Tell us how Luca became part of your family: Luca is my Christmas present from my son and his girlfriend. They spent more than six months looking for a doggy, and they found Luca in Kansas City.

What are some of Luca’s favorite things?

Running in the backyard. I work from home and he patiently waits for my breaks to go running outside and play in the grass. Also, he loves to go for a ride and grocery shopping with me and give kisses to everybody. We love Luca!

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

JOLIE

DIEGO

Community: Celebration

Community: Celebration

How old is Jolie?: 15 and a half!

How old is Diego? 1 and a half!

What breed is Jolie? Miniature Poodle

What breed is Diego? Golden Doodle

What is your favorite story with Jolie?

When Jolie turned 15 years old last summer, we had a special Quinceañera celebration for her. She had a custom made dress and photo shoot! Our submission photo is from her celebration. We also had a full-blown birthday party complete with a special doggy themed playlist for music, coloring pages for the kids of poodles that look like Jolie, food, cake and fun! She deserves to be celebrated for a long, full life and all the love that she has given in return along the way.

What is your favorite story with Diego?

Diego is an adventurer and loves to go on road trips and explore! We have a map of the country and we color off the states he has visited as we go along. So far he has just visited 3 states but we hope to add many more to our list over the years to come! Diego has a social media presence on Tik Tok and Instagram @diegoembarks and he is known for his signature bow ties! He has quite the collection and for all sorts of occasions!

Pet Parents: Christina Disla

Pet Parents: Christina Disla

Tell us how Jolie became part of your family: Very shortly after I moved to Florida, I visited a local pet store in Celebration. Jolie was in the window and it was love at first sight. The store is no longer there but Jolie has been a beloved family member ever since! She has been the best companion all these years.

What are some of Jolie’s favorite things?

Sleep, snore, fart, and eat chicken chips!

Tell us how Diego became part of your family: We lost my 13-year-old boy to cancer in 2020. Two months later Diego came home with me and really saved my heart from a great deal of grief! Diego came from North Carolina and my best friend and I drove all the way to Monroe, NC and back to Florida in one day to get him! It was a day we will never forget!

What are some of Diego’s favorite things?

Diego loves to visit all his friends at the dog park in our local community! Many of the dogs in his playgroup are around the same age and they have truly grown up together. It is so special to see the joy when they all play and run together!

Honorable Mention ALFIE

COCO

EZRA

JAMESON

MAVERICK

TUCKER

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ HOW YOU Can Help

Rising from the Ashes Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando looks to the paw-sitive future after devastating fire took the lives of some of its resident animals.

By Maya James

M

eet the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, one of the region’s oldest and largest nonprofit animal welfare agencies, serving Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and parts of Brevard, Lake and Volusia counties.

Founded in 1937 as the Orlando Humane Society, the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando has blossomed into a community staple that has allowed approximately 60,000 people to find their forever pet, and currently operates with 55 employees and around 400 volunteers.

Late last year, in September, a fire claimed the Alliance’s animal shelter and clinic on Conroy Road.

Six months later, Executive Director Stephen Bardy says that the Alliance is looking brightly toward the future. “[It’s] what we consider taking a really bad batch of lemons and making lemonade out of it,” Bardy says. “It is an event that will stay with the staff and volunteers for a long, long time. And I think each day provides us an opportunity to move forward.”

Bardy says the Alliance has exciting developments in store, such as moving into their new 26,000 square foot facility that will break ground this fall.

While the fire left devastation in its wake, Pet Alliance of Greater

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Orlando shifted gears fast. Animals and staff were transferred to the Sanford location where operations currently take place. In terms of community impact, Bardy says there was an outpouring of love and support after the fire including enough donations to fill three warehouses.

“We're fortunate that Orlando is such a robust shelter adopting community. It is part of the fabric of the DNA of the community,” Bardy says. “Lots of residents really believe in getting their pets from a shelter and rescuing and rehoming in that way. We really felt the love and support from the Greater Orlando community in ways that are really hard to describe. But they definitely lifted the spirits of our staff and our volunteers.”

22-year-old Micki Krueger says the Alliance gave her several new additions to her family.

Having moved from Tampa a year ago, Krueger was in search of a young, mild-tempered cat to keep her company and get along with her other cat, Shadow. It was then that she visited Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando and met S’mores, a brown tabby just over a year old. “[S’mores] was the perfect match for what we were looking for,” Kruger says.

Living only a few minutes from

the Alliance, Krueger says an unexpected nightmare happened the day the fire broke out.

“With living so close to that location, I could hear all of the sirens and I just figured, you know, it was another night in Orlando. There's always sirens going off,” Krueger says. “I would have never thought that it was at Alliance and especially hearing that the side that was most impacted by the fire was the cat side was really hard.”

Krueger made several donations in the weeks that followed to support the Alliance and eventually, she chose to adopt a second cat from them. She found the perfect cat in an orange tabby named Pabu.

“We wanted to support the pet Alliance in any way possible,, Krueger says.”

As for the Alliance, Bardy says the support Is still ongoing, citing the largest gala in November and largest Paws in the Park turnout in February. He says he will never forget the animals lost to the flames in September.

“It's kind of a balance of acknowledging the pain and the tragedy with ‘How are we going to honor them and do better and move forward and continue our progressive work?,” says Bardy.

Adopt, volunteer or donate by visiting petallianceorlando.org.

www.MetroWestCommunity.com (407) 601-5995

Spring Home Redesign Your look at the latest kitchen, living room and bathroom trends.

By Alexis George

Spring is the season of new beginnings. And what better way to celebrate new beginnings than by remodeling your home? The possibilities for creating a more stylish and functioning space for you and your loved ones is endless. With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest kitchen, living room and bathroom trends for 2022.

Kitchens The kitchen is commonly referred to as the heart of the home. According to the 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the amount homeowners are willing to spend on kitchen remodels continues to grow. A few top kitchen remodel trends include: All White In the Houzz Kitchen Trend Study, it was found that the color white continues to lead as the top choice for kitchen cabinets, backsplash, and walls. So, if you’re looking for a clean and classy kitchen look, white appliances are the way to go.

Under Cabinet Lights/Pendant lighting Under cabinet lights and recessed lights continue to alternate as the top choice for kitchen lighting. In 2022, under cabinet lights take the throne for the top choice. These lights add a unique style to your kitchen, limit the number of shadows over your countertop and can even lower your electric bill. Pendant lights are also gaining popularity as 67% of homeowners upgrade their kitchen light fixtures. Pendant lights are good for lighting smaller areas at just the right amount.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Smart Appliances It comes as no surprise that in this digital age high tech appliances are wanted in the kitchen. According to Houzz, over a third of upgraded appliances include high-tech features (35%).

The most popular high-tech appliances include wireless and smartphone controls. With these features you’ll be able to set the lighting of your kitchen, the temperature of your fridge, the temperature and timing of your ovens and stove tops, the timers on your microwave, and much more from your phone.

Kitchen Islands In the Houzz study it was found that 30% of homeowners added an island to their kitchen and 27% upgraded their current island. Islands allow for flexibility in the kitchen. It is a design that allows homeowners to add kitchen storage, more cooking space, and a place to work. In 2022 homeowners are even making their kitchen islands more than 7 feet long.

Living Rooms In 2022, homeowners are experimenting with their living room designs. This includes the resurgence of old trends, use of bold colors, themes and more. A few top living room remodel trends include: Mirrors Having mirrors in the living room is becoming a popular trend. It is an easy way for homeowners to maximize light. The mirrors also allow the sun to shine throughout the living room which brightens and opens the area.

Color/Clashing colors Like the kitchen, the living room is where socializing takes place. It is also a place of relaxation. In 2022 homeowners are leaning into these contrasting moods by choosing clashing colors.

This means choosing two shades on opposite sides of a color wheel, allowing for a bold contrast. The combination of pink and green is a good example of this. So, take a chance and go against color trends. Find shades that will both invigorate and relax you.

Marble or Stone Fireplace A fireplace is a nice decorative feature in a living room. It can be used to create warmth during the colder seasons or simply create a relaxing ambiance. This year, marble and stone fireplaces are extremely popular.

According to Hackrea, a marble fireplace, can either strictly cover the space around the chimney or reach the ceiling. It also gives you the flexibility to experiment with other patterns and colors. A stone fireplace on the other hand uses nature-inspired materials which makes it easy to set a contemporary and comfy environment.

Aquariums Adding an aquarium is an easy way to ensure your living room design will be unique. Trends show that homeowners are now using aquariums as a coffee table, corner wall or wall divider.

If you choose to incorporate them, aquariums can transform traditional items into main focal points. And just like that, your living room is a masterpiece.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Bath Rooms Bathrooms are used by everyone daily, so it is understandable to want to put thought and effort into the design of this space. A few top bathroom remodel trends include:

Homeowners are also steering away from white walls and adding scenic murals. Think colorful, intricate, and hand-drawn scenes on the wall.

Lighting Focus In a 2021 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, it was discovered that lighting issues are increasingly among homeowners’ pet peeves prior to renovation. So today, it is common to see homeowners place emphasis on lighting fixtures in the bathroom.

This includes the addition of feature lights, vanity lights, downlights or even LED lights. The goal is to allow for sufficient lighting which in turn gives the bathroom a nice glow to it.

Wet Rooms and Expanding Showers In 2022 we are seeing homeowners maximize their shower space. That means doing away with the traditional tub with a showerhead and shower curtains. Instead, a glass divider is being used to hold a full shower and tub or twin showerheads are being used so two people can shower together.

Wet Rooms are also becoming popular. The space is constructed with materials designed to get wet. Its size allows the bath, sink and shower to fit all in one area. As a bonus, wet rooms are easy to clean and provide more floor space in the bathroom.

Spa-Like Features Luxury is in and homeowners are mirroring their bathrooms after spas. This means including undermount sinks, mosaic tile, granite or quartz countertops and euro style shower doors.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Mixing Old and New In 2022 it’s no longer completely out with the old and in with the new. Homeowners are mixing the two.

An example could be keeping a traditional bath but upgrading the faucet with a more modern sink.

• • • • • • • • • • Special Adver tising Section • • • • • • • • • •

YOUR GUIDE TO

WEST ORANGE COUNTY CLUB SPORTS CAMP

The 2022 summer camp includes one hour of group instruction in each sport of Golf, Tennis, and Swim from our Professional Coaches. There will be three small groups of 12 children per group that will rotate between the three sports each day. Each group will consist of children within the same age group. Family or friends may be grouped together, if requested.

AGES: 5 to 13* *Camper must be 5 years of age by June 1st 2022

ATTENTION SUMMER CAMP COUNSELORS!

With all the flexible options we offer, ICON Park is the perfect place to bring your summer camp groups.

Whether you’re looking for a short break in the day, an all-day field trip, or a multi-day visit plan, we have the experience that will fit your group’s needs, including an approved educational curriculum for groups focused on learning. We even offer lunch options to make your visit complete.

Activity options include: The Wheel at ICON Park, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Museum of Illusions, 7D Motion Theater, The Pearl Express and In The Game. n Inclusive lunch options available upon request n Special rates exclusively for summer camp groups starting at just $10! n

Summer Camp operators/planners: please contact Sales@ICONParkOrlando.com to book your visit!

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Where: West Orange Country Club When: 8:45 am to 12:45 pm Monday-Friday Cost: $350 *Member Cost $315 Space is Limited. Sign up today at www.woclub/kidscamp Week 1 - 5/30 - 6/3 Week 2 - 6/6 - 6/10 Week 3 - 6/13 - 6/17 Week 4 - 6/20 - 6/24 Week 5 - 6/27 - 7/1 CAMP CLOSED: JULY 4TH-8TH Week 6 - 7/11 - 7/15 Week 7 - 7/18 - 7/22 Week 8 - 7/25 - 7/29 Week 9 - 8/1 - 8/5

• • • • • • • • • • Special Adver tising Section • • • • • • • • • •

MONTVERDE ACADEMY SUMMER PROGRAMS

For over 20 years, Montverde Academy has offered kids a fun and engaging camp experience with programs including day camp, camp invention, soccer, equestrian, sports camp, lacrosse, and more! MVA offers before- and after-care, and hot lunches for most full-day camps all in one convenient location.

This year will be MVA’s best Day Camp ever - theme weeks, more activities, and great fun. Day Camp for 2022 will run June 5 – August 5, Monday through Friday. Kids will enjoy fun “theme weeks” including Super Hero Week, MVA Olympics, MVA’s Got Talent, Wacky Water Week, and many more!

Register before May 1 and save on Montverde Academy's awesome Day Camp for kids in grades Pre-K 4 - 12!

Athletic Summer Programs include: n Sports performance. (Boys and girls entering grades 6 - 12). n Baseball, Softball, Equestrian, Swimming, Lacrosse n Camp Invention (Boys and girls entering grades K – 6) And more!

For more information on our summer programs and camps, email summerprograms@montverde.org.

CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS

Each summer, CFCArts offers a variety of exciting summer camps to children and teens! From half-day arts camps for our youngest children to full production camps and theatre intensives for our teens, these camps are designed to meet the students where they are. A fun, encouraging environment allows youth to explore the performing arts, work with talented, professional directors and choreographers, make friends, and grow as a performer.

Our youth programs are specifically looking for male-presenting teens, tenor singers, and students of color for roles in upcoming shows.

We hope you'll join us in College Park, Winter Park, and Lake Mary this summer!

CFCArts promises never to turn a young performer away due to financial need. We offer financial aid and are a proud provider of the Florida Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES, formerly Gardiner Scholarship).

Please visit CFCArts.com/Camps or email youth@ cfcarts.com for more information.

Central Florida Community Arts 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd Orlando, FL 32804 (407) 937-1800 Youth@CFCArts.com

* Note: This is the location of the main CFCArts offices and our College Park summer camps. This year, we also offer camps in Winter Garden and Lake Mary.

SEE YOURSELF AT

CFC ARTS

Join us!

CFCArts.com CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS

Aurora

Youth Theatre

Company Member

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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• • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • •

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Banking

Trusting Tradition with Trustco Bank Learn how a hometown banking approach makes it possible to find a bargain among Orlando-area mortgage lenders.

By Eric Schreck -Executive Vice President & Florida Regional President, Trustco Bank

I

n an era when changes to the mortgage industry are so rapid it’s hard to keep track of them, Orlando homebuyers may save themselves time and money by sticking with tradition. Trustco Bank turns 120 years old in 2022 and has been a presence in Florida for almost 20 years, following many of its upstate New York customers south and increasing its footprint as seasonal snowbirds became full-time Floridians. It now has 53 branches in the Sunshine State, 39 in Central Florida and 8 on each coast.

Around Orlando, one of the nation’s hottest housing markets, every penny counts when buying a home, and a hometown banking approach makes it possible to find a bargain among Orlando-area mortgage lenders. Trustco is what’s known as a “portfolio lender,” which means its loans are made against customer deposits, keeping the money in the communities it serves. It’s a simple concept, sometimes called “self-funding,” “holding your own paper,” “keeping it on the books,” or “not selling the loan.”

This is important because the longstanding practice of portfolio lending sets the bank apart from many other players in the crowded mortgage industry, from multinational banks to the rapidly expanding selection of nonbank mortgage lenders. The mortgage products are customized for individual buyers, not for investors that buy mortgage loans. This sets up a longstanding banking relationship, sometimes the full 30 years of a conventional mortgage, and cuts down origination and closing costs.

Portfolio lenders don’t interact with any of the major Federal mortgage agencies – Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, or Ginnie Mac – so buyers don’t have to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI). That’s an annual savings of as much as $1,200. Portfolio lenders don’t negotiate points – upfront fees paid to get a lower interest rate – and transactions close faster because the money doesn’t have to be put in escrow.

Florida’s tax advantages, particularly the lack of a state income tax, means retired homebuyers aren’t taxed on income from Social Security, pensions, IRAs and or 401(k) retirement plans. That’s made it easy for Trustco to expand using its time-tested business model, which includes requiring only a 10% deposit on a home’s total value, and a mortgage to cover the other 90%.

In the last two decades, plenty of Floridians and transplanted snowbirds have seen the advantages of the hometown banking model. Since its southern expansion, Trustco has grown its Florida residential mortgage portfolio to over $1 billion. Keeping mortgages simple helps buyers with a sometimes-complicated process – a prospective buyer can apply for a mortgage loan in any branch, and it is appraised, underwritten, and processed by employees living and working in those same communities. That keeps closing costs low, and lets the bank offer highly competitive rates, a major consideration for any kind of buyer in a year when rates are nearly guaranteed to climb higher.

Eric Schreck serves as the Executive Vice President & Florida Regional President of Trustco Bank. He has been with Trustco Bank for over 30 years, where he directs operations for all Florida branch offices in the state. Eric has extensive experience in sales and service initiatives, along with developing measurement standards to monitor branch performance. Eric holds a Management Science degree from Cortland College, and an MBA in Finance from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Trustco Bank operates 147 branches in total, 53 located within the state of Florida, 39 of which are in Central Florida. Trustco is known for offering a wide variety of great deposit and loan products and the bank specializes in residential mortgage lending. To learn more about the bank visit www.TrustcoBank.com.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Y

50%

UP TO 8 ATTRACTIONS ONE LOW PRICE! Plus SHOPPING & DINING DISCOUNTS!

Get your PLAY PASS today at ICONParkOrlando.com THE ICON PARK PLAY PASS INCLUDES (1) ADMISSION TO: The Wheel at ICON Park, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Orlando StarFlyer, Museum of Illusions, Pearl Express Train, 7D Dark Ride & $5 In The Game Play Card.

8375 International Drive | Orlando, FL 32819 | 407-601-7907

• • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • •

+ EXPERT ADVICE Law |

Your Homeowners Insurance CHECKLIST It’s almost hurricane season, which means you are reviewing your policy. This Q&A offers tips for ensuring you’re covered and ready for a storm.

By Michael B. Brehne, Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A

E

so purchase as much as you can afford to protect yourself.

How can I be sure my policy will fully protect my home?

If your policy includes a right to repair or a reduced premium in exchange for a supplement to your policy that allows for the right to repair then you may find yourself in a difficult situation after a storm. This condition allows your insurance company to determine the scope of your claim and the repair company.

Insurance companies do this to control the costs associated with rebuilding your home. They work with contractors who agree to work at discounted rates in exchange for a certain number of repairs. You may even lose control over the materials they use. It’s always in your best interest to maintain control over all aspects of your home’s repair. After all, the insurance company’s loyalty is to the person signing their check - not you.

ach year brings new challenges to homeowners insurance cases because of ever-changing laws and insurance policies. Each time an insurance company reviews its policy language, it can add new provisions and delete old ones. At the Law Offices of Michael B Brehne, we’ve noticed that sometimes the revised policy offers more protection to the homeowner, but most of the time, these changes limit coverage and exposure.

Here, I’ve answered some of the most-asked questions as you prepare for the 2022 hurricane season.

First, make sure your policy declarations page states amounts that are sufficient to replace your home in the event it needs to be completely rebuilt and that it doesn’t exclude major items like roof with solar panels, screened enclosures or other structures on the property like sheds or detached garage apartments. Then, ensure you didn’t select unreasonable deductibles or exclude valuable coverage such as sinkhole, liability to others or mold. The standard $10,000 for mold coverage isn’t typically enough for most claims,

I noticed my policy includes “right to repair.” What does that mean?

What documents should I have on hand to help expedite a claim after a storm?

I’ve won many cases by using pre-sale inspection reports maintained

by title companies or receipts from roofing companies that inspected the home and made repairs while it was occupied by the client. These documents show the insurance company the roof’s condition prior to the storm for comparison. It’s a great defense against pre-existing conditions or lack of maintenance. For this reason, consider having your roof inspected or serviced every couple of years.

Also, document your home every year. Either take photos or a short video of the home’s interior, opening cabinets and drawers to show what’s inside. Do the same with the exterior to show the condition of gutters, downspouts, garage doors and mailboxes before the storm. Transfer the video or images to a USB device and store it in your hurricane kit. This is your best evidence when making a claim.

If your home suffers damage this hurricane season, we invite you to give our office a call. But at the very least, consult an attorney who concentrates on insurance litigation. They can assess the damages, prepare estimates and reports, and negotiate a settlement with the proper evidence.

Michael Brehne has dedicated his 24-year career to representing injured people in motorcycle and car accidents, and represents people when their insurance claims have been denied. He has earned a reputation as a tenacious and skilled trial lawyer when representing his clients against large corporate defendants and insurance companies. He is also the author of “Watching Out for Florida Motorcyclists: Legal Rights of Injured Bikers.”

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

BACK-To-School

Anxiety?

It’s normal to experience some anxiety while getting back in the swing of school. New classes, new routines, new responsibilities, and new faces. It can be overwhelming at times! Here are a few tips for calming down when everything is a bit much.

Try the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique Use your senses to ground you to the present and stop those racing thoughts!

Find 5 things you see around you

sec on for 3

Find 3 things you hear around you

Bre

ds

on sec

in

3 for

ath e

ld

H

Find 4 things you can touch around you

Ho

ds

Try the Breathing Triangle

Find 2 things you can smell around you

Exhale for 3 seconds

Start at the star and follow the lines around the triangle.

Deep breathing exercises give your nervous system the “all clear” signal that the danger has passed and it’s okay to rest.

Find 1 thing you can taste around you

Want extra support? Give counseling a try!

TAKE HEART COUNSELING,LLC

Confidence in Self. Courage in Life.

Madi Farrell, LMHC madi@takeheartorlando.com 407-900-1617

Support for Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Challenges As mental health challenges escalate, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida offers hope for youth with autism.

I

n April, we recognize National Autism Awareness Month by wearing pins with a recognizable puzzle pattern and connecting with organizations that support or educate about autism to create further awareness. However, the depth, scope and complexities of intellectual disabilities were actually realized in 1912 by a woman who was a pioneer in the field, Helena Devereux.

Today, her namesake nonprofit is one of the largest and most advanced healthcare organizations in the country, connecting the latest scientific and medical advancements to practical, effective interventions in the treatment of behavioral health. Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida was established in 1987 to meet the emotional and behavioral needs of youth in Florida. The nonprofit organization has developed a 30-year history of providing expert care to treat the most severe combination of autism and mental health conditions — known as dual diagnosis — through intensive residential treatment, specialized group homes, foster care and, most recently, the introduction of its Behavioral Support Program.

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. While it can be diagnosed at any age, symptoms generally appear in the first few years of life.

In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, according to 2016 data. More specifically, 1 in 34 boys and 1 in 144 girls are identified with autism.

Individuals with autism may communicate, interact, behave and learn differently than most other people. They often have problems with social, emotional and communication skills as well as developing and maintaining relationships. With

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

the help of medical professionals, parents can work with their children to set expectations and manage behaviors — though this tends to be more difficult as the child grows older.

The Escalation of Mental Health Issues

During the teenage years, when it is developmentally appropriate for youth to place greater value on peer relationships and feelings of acceptance, issues stemming from autism can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. This is due to the social stigmas caused by differences in the ways autistic individuals communicate and interact, which may lead to additional challenges, such as becoming a victim of bullying behavior. For any adolescent, the social and emotional impact of bullying is felt greatly; however, it further exacerbates the already challenging issues faced by those with autism who may then experience changes in their symptoms, behaviors and co-occurring health conditions.

Co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression, are common with autism. Some psychiatric conditions could present as well. This is known as dual diagnosis.

In addition to bullying, the impact of hormonal changes in adolescence might escalate the situation for individuals with autism. When behaviors that are typically easily managed in the home shift to the child or adolescent becoming a danger to themselves, such as with suicidal thoughts or actions, it becomes a mental health crisis.

For these families, access to services that support dual diagnosis is exponentially challenging. With dual diagnosis cases, one issue often disqualifies access to care or available funding despite the need. This is where Devereux’s Behavioral Support Program is a critical resource that provides access to a variety of well-established programs for families who have exhausted their options.

Devereux’s Impact on Behavioral and Mental Health

“We have seen firsthand the life-changing impact that can be made when behavioral treatment is delivered in a clinically sound approach that also addresses the impact to a child’s mental health,” says Devereux Florida’s Executive Director Michelle Llorens.

It all began with the Viera Campus in Brevard County, Devereux’s first program established in Florida. Due to its proven record of success in treating the most severe combination of mental health challenges and developmental disabilities, state agencies, healthcare providers and families across the state and country seek placement at its intensive residential treatment facility.

Locally, residential care is provided at Devereux’s Winter Park campus, where specialized services include group home treatment and an adult day treatment program for individuals with more profound developmental disabilities. The intensive behavioral treatment is based on the principals of Applied Behavior Analysis and serve individuals from age five through adulthood.

As part of a continuum of care, other Devereux programs include outpatient counseling and other specialized, community-based services such as a Mobile Response Team, treatment foster care, and, most importantly, emotional support. The demand for any combination of all of these services have led to the vision and development of Devereux’s Behavioral Support Program.

“After seeing the remarkable transformation that can be made once youth are placed with us in our residential programs, we have said many times, for many years, that we just wished we could have been able to work with this individual sooner,” Llorens says. “This is a rewarding opportunity to finally do this, through this new program, and we hope to be in a position to continue to serve more families.”

What is the Devereux Behavioral Support Program?

When it comes to supporting individuals with mental health disorders in combination with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Devereux understands that each case is unique.

Through its Behavioral Support Program, a multi-discipinary approach with collective resources available through Devereux’s established service array contribute to the development of a support plan that is customized to the unique needs of the individual. This could include some or all of the following:

• • • • • • •

Specialized referral and care coordination Support with accessing resources within the existing system of care Individualized assessment Functional behavioral assessments Development of individualized behavioral plans Caregiver training and support Community consultation

“We are grateful to be in a position to provide this type of support for families who are in desperate need for help,” says Devereux Florida’s Director of External Affairs Lindsey Phillips. “Through our collective resources and combined expertise, we have the unique ability to provide a level of service that is not commonly offered through many direct service providers, and furthermore is not typically funded.

Our goal is to support families before the treatment needs are at the point of requiring psychiatric hospitalizations or longterm residential treatment. And, if and when that need presents, to walk through the crisis together and provide wraparound support for the child and the family.”

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How You Can Get Involved with Devereux’s Mission Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida unlocks and nurtures human potential for people living with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences.

Community support has been the key to providing lifechanging services for individuals and families facing challenges from these diagnoses. There are several ways you can get involved.

Refer: If your family is experiencing any of the challenges mentioned in this article, you don’t have to face it alone.

Devereux is recognized nationally for its expert level of care for families just like yours. For immediate help for your family or a family you know, reach out directly to FLBehavioralSupport@devereux.org.

Gain Support: Understanding your child’s diagnosis and managing behavioral symptoms can be overwhelming.

Devereux is available to provide support for your family. Join our parent/caregiver support network and access our team of experts for a complimentary initial consultation by emailing FLBehavioralSupport@devereux.org.

Learn: Interested in learning more about the services Devereux provides for individuals and families in crisis? For more information about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida, visit www.devereuxFL.org.

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38

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

Autism Spectrum Disorder by the Numbers

1 in 54

children in the U.S. who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder

4x

more common in males

4x to 6x

difference in medical expenditures for children and adolescents with autism than for those without autism

$40,000 to $60,000

cost of intensive behavioral interventions per child, per year for services provided in-home

$150,000

average cost of intensive behavioral interventions per child, per year for inpatient or residential care

+ LIVING Mindfully

Make Way for Mindfulness Start the year off right by being more mindful. Learn some of the fundamentals of mindfulness as well as where in Central Florida you can practice being mindful.

By Tarre Beach

A

ccording to biomedical scientist Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1979, mindful meditation is being aware, paying attention, being in the present moment, letting go of the need to judge, and focusing on your breathing.

Using Kabat-Zinn’s guidelines you can begin your personal journey to living more mindfully in a myriad of ways.

You can practice mindfulness while washing the dishes or picking the kids up from school. If you’d like to experiment, here is a list of unique places in Central Florida to be mindful.

Magnolia Park 2929 S. Binion Rd. Apopka 32703

This 56-acre camping area and park is tucked away on the east bank of Lake Apopka. It’s home to an ostentation of peacocks that call loudly to each other. You can watch the males parade around fluttering their bright tail feathers or visit a small playground and butterfly garden. There’s also plenty of shady areas to enjoy a picnic. Part of the Lake Apopka Loop Trail, this is a great place to pay attention.

The Salt Room and Wellness Spa 508 N. Mills Ave., Suite C Orlando 32803

In Europe, salt caves have been used to support the respiratory system and promote skin health. The Salt Room also offers vibrational therapy where singing bowls are

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

placed directly on your body and a practitioner strikes the bowls. The ancient practice is believed to help relieve tension in muscles. Either of these services may be a good way to focus on your breathing.

Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake 3401 S. Hiawassee Rd. Orlando 32835

Designed with the nature-lover in mind, this 183-acre park has a little bit of everything: hiking, horses, aquatic sports, disc golf, playgrounds, bird watching, grilling, and the list goes on and on. For only $5 per car, you can park and meander the scrub forest around Turkey Lake. Take a walk or bike along the trails (paved and dirt) here. Don’t forget to visit the barnyard animal area where you can say hello to pigs, a mule and chickens and let off any judgements.

Wekiwa Springs State Park & Wekiva River 1800 Wekiwa Cir. Apopka 32712

Known for its kayaking and canoeing and the 72-degree Wekiwa Springs that feed it, Wekiva River is a lovely freshwater river with Spanish moss-covered trees canopying it.

While on the river you can practice being in the moment and let go of the past or the future so that you don’t miss the black bears, bald eagles, white-tailed deer, great blue herons, otters, turtles, tortoises, foxes, and alligators that have been spotted in the area at different times of the year.

Acknowledging and Preserving Our History As a Winter Garden resident, it’s important that I share my experience at the Historic Edgewater Hotel.

By Austin Arthur

M

y town is Winter Garden, Florida. I chose Winter Garden as the place where I wanted to raise my family and to live out the rest of my days. My wife was born and raised here and went to school at Calvary Christian on South Dillard Street. Needless to say, we love this town and are tremendous advocates for its preservation. I believe that for our city to retain what makes it so great, we must be aware of its history, protective of its heritage, and active in its community.

A couple of days ago I was reminded about an integral piece of our history and heritage here in Winter Garden – the Historic Edgewater Hotel, a bed and breakfast style inn that first opened its doors to the public in the 1920s.

When I arrived at 99 W. Plant Street, Mike Lanza, the co-owner greeted me in the lobby. Behind the huge wood framed front desk was an old switchboard, a large combination safe, an antique register, and other trinkets and furniture items that are far older than I. Mike promptly invited me upstairs, which is where the guest rooms and dining area can be found. I noticed the narrow original stairwell, but he gave me the guest

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

experience by taking me upstairs via the original 1926 Otis manually operated elevator. A few years shy of being a century old, it swooshed up faster than the elevator at my current office building and was a smoother ride too.

Once we arrived upstairs, I noticed the way the natural sunlight rushes through the immaculate dining room which faces Plant Street.

Throughout a stay at the hotel, guests are welcome to grab coffee or other refreshments at any time. Breakfast is cooked-to-order in the morning, and all of this is included with the fixed room fee. The bedrooms are furnished with period pieces and the door doesn’t have a computer chip card, but an old-fashioned turnkey, just like it was in the early days of the hotel.

After the project was halted in 1924, Jerry Chicone Sr. stepped in and found new investors which allowed the hotel to open in January 1927. The hotel thrived during its early decades, but eventually closed its doors. Then in the 1970’s, Pat Hart

bought the building and utilized it for storage and to run his TV Repair business.

In the 1980’s Hart was seeking to sell the building but in the end, he kept it. “There was a lot of promises made [about restoring the building], it made the city and the people of downtown weary of people coming in to buy the building,” said Mike explaining the climate of the time.

This went on until the 1990’s when Mike and his business partner Max Blanchard were looking for space to create a new studio for their media production company. They found out about this old building in the quiet downtown Winter Garden area. At that time the train was still rolling through where the West Orange Trail currently lays and Mike recounts, “there was several years there, leading up to 2003, where downtown was kind of closed off while they were doing all this work.” What Mike was

referring to is the revitalization efforts done in preparation for the city’s centennial celebration, where “Centennial Plaza” was created which now holds the famous clock tower and fountain.

In 1995 Mike and Max bought the Edgewater Hotel building. Just before this time, the newly formed Winter Garden Heritage Foundation successfully stopped what was to be the demolition of the building. As part of the purchase agreement with Hart, they had to sign an agreement with the Heritage Foundation. “We signed a contract with the Heritage Foundation so that we would maintain the historic exterior of the building,” Mike explained.

However the interior was not going to be preserved. That was until the community started to meet with Mike and Max. “In the 1990s we met a lot of the original families who were here. We met with Bert Roper, the Reeves, Jerry Chicone Sr., Ann and Bob Ellis … we got so many stories of what it was like to be here and it just kind of triggered us to think that you could take this building which is an authentic historical structure, with such a great background and stories, and return it to what it had been in the 1920s and 1930s and give people of our time that experience,” recounted Mike.

“It was at that point we started a new business and the production business faded out,” said Mike.

Mike and Max began the painstaking process of revitalization efforts that would go on for 8 years before they were able to welcome their first hotel guests in 2003. Just in time for the cities 100-year anniversary. The rest is history.

The hotel today is booming, maybe just as much as it was in the 1920’s. In addition to the hotel itself it is home to Earl Brigham's Barber Shop, Chef’s Table and the Tasting Room, Thai Blossom Restaurant, and Scoops Old Fashioned Ice Cream Store, all of which have been downstairs since 2008 and have outstanding records of their own in our community.

As Mike concluded regarding the historic preservation of the hotel, “We are able to honor the families who built this city instead of wiping that history out, we bring it back and honor it.”

I learned a lot with my visit to the hotel. I learned that there are people like Mike and Max in our community who are passionate about honoring our history and heritage. Walking down the halls of that hotel I thought of the men and women who also stepped on those floors so many decades ago. These are the people who helped to pioneer our wonderful community, not just Winter Garden but all of West Orange. It is for us to honor them and care about what made this city and area great, to know and preserve our history and heritage. In the end, it’s about the people.

Austin Arthur is a local business owner and community advocate for West Orange County, Florida.

He has been writing about, and advocating for, West Orange County for some time and is active on many boards and other community groups.

Austin and his wife, Kellie, are residents of Winter Garden, where they are raising their three children. www.austinarthur.us

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

43

+ YOUR Local

Cycling in West Orange Great for mental and physical health

L to R – Anna Reinhart, Stina D’Uva, Lynetta Tipton Steed, Anita Grant and Landra Wormack

By Stina D’Uva

E

xercise is a word that really isn’t in my daily vocabulary but it is in my bi-weekly vocabulary; in a good month. My definition of exercise is and has been since I was much younger, bike riding. Even though I was hit by a car at age 15, I still love to ride; probably because I have amnesia about the accident. In all seriousness though, I didn’t ride very often until about 10 years ago. My good friend Jim Neumayer, loved to ride, along with his wife Eileen. They talked Nick and me into riding with them along the West Orange Trail. The first few rides were relatively short, from Winter Garden Station to Killarney Station in Oakland. It is only a 5 mile, 10 round trip, but seemed like 100 to me.

The reasons for that are that Nick and I weren’t all that well prepared. We didn’t have bikes with lots of gears and cycling kits. That all eventually changed and made even longer rides seem shorter and much more enjoyable. We now have thousands of miles on our double-digit gear bikes, and we wear cushioned bike shorts and shirts with plenty of pockets in the back. We are now true cycling enthusiasts, even if only as “Weekend Warriors”.

Once a month though, on a Friday, I lead a diverse group of women on a ride along the West Orange Trail. We all have different types of bikes and clothing, yet we all have a joy for riding in common. The part we all really enjoy the most, is heading back to downtown Winter Garden for camaraderie and some light refreshments at a chamber member restaurant. Networking on Fridays doesn’t just happen on a golf course!

Riding along the West Orange Trail, whether towards Apopka or west into Lake County; hills and all and listening to good music while passing the old charm scenery is good for the heart and soul. Sometimes though, I ride close to my home in MetroWest, on the wide sidewalks along Hiawassee Road where I enter Turkey Lake Park and do a scenic, almost two-mile loop within the park.

Once I started to ride, I found many ways to enjoy it even when on vacation in the states or Europe. No matter where you are in the world, there are bikes and great rides.

I even learned of and participated in rides by wonderful, local organizations hosting rides for various causes. Over the years, I have enjoyed the Winter Garden Wheel Works Think Pink Ride, a ride for the Winter Garden police department, Friends of Lake Apopka (FOLA 40) and American Diabetes Tour de Cure.

Join me one day and I am sure you too can be a weekend warrior and cycling enthusiast and experience West Orange in a whole new way!

Stina D’Uva, Paul Sexton, Nick D’Uva and Mayor Bryan Nelson

44

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

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45

+ YOUR Local

Getting Through the Business Summer Successfully

By Don Long, Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce

S

ummer is just around the corner and for those of us making summer plans for family activities, vacationing and schedule changes can be stressful, especially while also maintaining a successful business or career. Wellness experts recommend that approaching our schedules in a mindful and healthy way is the key to succeeding in both our professional and personal lives.

Lake Nona community business owner Ceasar Cabral of Inspire A Movement, Inc. recommends using a process known as Gratitude Journaling. “Through gratitude journaling, we start each day by listing at least five things for which we are thankful which could be as simple as waking up in a healthy body, having safe refuge in our home, having friends and family that support and love us, among many others.” He continues, “by focusing on more elevated states of emotion (joy, happiness, gratitude, thankfulness), we not only change the lens with which we see the world, but more importantly, we change the way in which we identify with the world.” He encourages reaching out directly to www. insprireamovement.com to find out more.

Bringing a positive start to our day can result in less stress by giving us more time to plan and finding ways to improve our physical fitness and health. According to MedicalNewsToday, “staying healthy during the hot summer weather while still having plenty of fun requires only careful preparation and awareness. So, while adding to those schedules keep a peaceful mind, apply your sunscreen, drink your water, and remember “bug bites can ruin the best of parties.”

Most of our summer activities include physical activities both indoors and out. Plus, exercise is one of the necessities of life that we should include in our routines right next to healthy meals and sleep. Exercise is so important that #1 bestselling leadership author Robin Sharma puts it this way, “If you don’t make time for exercise, you’ll probably have to make time for illness.” However, people should be

mindful and careful of taking on new routines or exercises without first consulting a fitness expert and always starting slowly. The results of good fitness support mental health, more strength, improved performance, and more rewarding relationships.

Interested in finding out more about health and fitness opportunities in our community? Visit our chamber website www.lakenonacc.org and click on our easily searched Directory tab.

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It is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, Lake Nona Property Holdings, LLC, or its affiliated entities. Comments or requests for information are encouraged at Administration@LakeNonaCC.org.

46

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

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47

• • • • • • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • • • • • •

The Perfect Match

Learn about Lake Nona Performance Club’s partnership with Chopra Global.

T

he Lake Nona Performance Club (LNPC), has partnered with Chopra Global, a leading whole health company founded by Dr. Deepak Chopra, to create the Chopra Mind-Body Zone and Spa. This first-of-its-kind partnership brings Chopra Global’s signature movement and spa programs to a leading fitness facility and marks the company’s first brick-and-mortar partnership. Featuring mindfully selected classes, the dedicated Chopra Mind-Body Zone has an intimate, boutique feel where you will find your center and your tribe.

“Chopra Global and Lake Nona have a long and rich partnership guided by our common mission of promoting health and wellbeing,” says Chopra Global Vice President of Partnerships Jaime Rabin. “We’re incredibly excited to expand that partnership with the new Chopra MindBody Zone and Spa specializing in

48

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

the life-changing benefits of whole health and practicing the connectivity of mind, body, and spirit. The programs at LNPC will serve as a model for us moving forward as we look to continue the expansion of our physical brand presence.”

This UP-IT LNPC Member experience is a dedicated 5,500-square-foot space devoted to providing premium experiences focused on enhancing overall wellbeing. The Chopra MindBody Zone offers a variety of yoga and meditation classes plus specialty options like aerial yoga, barre, and Reformer Pilates. Unique mind-body assessments based in Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems, are also available.

In addition to the Chopra MindBody Zone, Chopra Global oversees a dedicated spa designed to complement LNPC’s focus on whole health.

The Chopra Mind-Body Spa specializes in both Chopra Global’s signa-

ture Ayurvedic and Classic massages.

Chopra Ayurvedic massages focus on the unique mind-body constitution of the individual resulting in a customized experience for each guest.

Access to the spa is available to both LNPC members and the public.

For more than two decades, Chopra Global has been at the forefront of personal health and wellness empowerment for millions of people worldwide to expand collective wellbeing. Chopra Global is anchored by the life’s practice and research of renowned best-selling author, Dr. Deepak Chopra, one of the leading pioneers in the fields of integrative medicine, consciousness, and meditation. Its signature programs have been proven to improve overall well being through a focus on physical, mental, and spiritual health.

“We’re so thrilled to align with Chopra Global, a true, global leader in the health and wellbeing space,

SPECIAL OFFER: When signing up for membership to LNPC, mention the magazine and you will receive 50% OFF your enrollment fee and 1 FREE WEEK to the Chopra Mind-Body Zone. Additionally, with mention of the magazine when booking your spa appointment, you will receive 20% OFF your spa service.

to create custom programming and learning opportunities for the Lake Nona community and greater Orlando region,” says LNPC Executive Director Jay Groves. “Designed by Chopra Global with support from LNPC’s expert staff, the mind-body programming coupled with a restorative spa creates a one-stop destination where our members can focus on wholeperson health and wellbeing.”

The Chopra Global operations at LNPC are led by an expert team with oversight from Dr. Chopra himself. Dr. Chopra recently announced plans to become a Lake Nona resident, so he can expand his relationship with the community and be personally involved with the Chopra Mind-Body Zone and Spa. “I feel that Lake Nona is going to be the leader in the world that will create a movement for what I’ve longed for all my life: a critical mass of people who will engage in personal and total transformation for a more peaceful,

just, and a more healthy and enjoyable world. But to get there, we have to take care of ourselves first,” Dr. Deepak Chopra said during a recent meditation event in Lake Nona.

For any questions regarding the Chopra Mind-Body Zone, please contact Chopra Mind-Body Zone Lead, Julie Weiss, at JWeiss@iwp-llc.com

Drop-in rates available for all LNPC members and non-members.

To book a spa appointment, please contact us at 407-216-5672. Scan here to view our Spa menu.

Chopra Mind-Body Zone Membership: n Personalization based on a mindbody type assessment n Chopra signature meditation classes n Chopra signature yoga classes n Additional boutique-style classes n Educational classes on well-being topics n LNPC Member special pricing on Chopra Spa Services n Chopra App subscription (available on iOS)

Lake Nona Performance Club 6775 Chopra Terrace Orlando, FL 32827 lakenonaperformanceclub.com 407-216-5672 @LNPerformanceClub

Lake Nona Performance Club

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

49

+ SOMEONE You Should Know

For the Love

of Writing

This Altamonte Springs resident has newspaper writing and teaching in his genes.

By Tarre Beach

J

eff Kunerth’s father taught journalism at Iowa State University for 30 years. His brother was a newspaper publisher for even longer. At first Kunerth didn’t want to go into the family business. But after being named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in journalism, teaching scores of Rollins College and University of Central Florida (UCF) writing students, and spending 41 years reporting at the Orlando Sentinel, it seems Kunerth has accepted that journalism is just a part of his DNA. Kunerth, who is an adjunct professor at UCF, says there’s always room for improvement. That’s one of the reasons why even after years of being a professional journalist, he went back to school to pursue a Master’s in Fine Art with a focus on narrative journalism and nonfiction writing.

“When it comes to writing well, I believe more in perspiration, than simply inspiration,” Kunerth says.

He credits fine-tuning his skills in literary journalism at Groucher College for his Pulitzer Prize nomination in 2013. In part Kunerth’s coverage of the hazing rituals of Florida A&M University’s marching band which killed drum major Richard Champion put a spotlight on this serious issue which eventually led to some top administrators resigning.

“What I love about literary journalism is the ability to drill down into the story,” Kunerth says. “You can show readers who a person is, how an event—even a tragic event like a young man being beaten to death—happened and give them a better understanding of it.”

50

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2022

According to Greg Dawson, Kunerth’s coworker at the Sentinel, Kunerth was a hard worker and excellent storyteller. “Reading his copy was like running your hand across seamless varnished woodwork,” Dawson says.

When Kunerth was a journalism student, most of his classmates were drawn to the craft because they were interested in finding the truth. While he himself had an interest in that fundamental principle of journalism too, he was also attracted to the storytelling nature of feature writing. For him hard news or the traditional who, what, where, why, when, and how of a story is “the bones and muscle of reporting and feature writing is the heart and flesh of it,” he says.

Now, Kunerth, who has written two nonfiction books, one on Central Florida hiking trails and Trout: A True Story of Murder, Teens, and the Death Penalty, enjoys helping the next generation of writers hone their skills. He says he believes anyone who can write clearly, concisely, and compellingly in today’s meme-loving, emoji-heavy world may have a better edge over their competition.

“Being able to put a sentence together is important. It’s one of the best ways we have to communicate. Learning how to write better, no matter what you end up doing with it, is never a waste of time,” Kunerth says.

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