Central Florida Lifestyle August 2022 MetroWest

MetroWest AUGUST 2022

LIFESTYLE

®

SCHOOL DAYS ARE BACK! INSIDE

MINDFUL MOMENTS

FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

MENTAL WELLBEING FOR PARENTS

GIVE YOURSELF GRACE & SPACE

IT’S JUST LUNCH!

FUN IDEAS FOR LUNCH BOX PLAYTIME www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

choose well.

2022-2023 “Best Children’s Hospital” rankings - tie.

+ LETTER From the Publisher

ROUTINE! It is BACK. As a mother of three, the month of July was always bitter-sweet. As the days got longer, the realization that Back-to-School prep was in the very near future set in. Days of structure, homework, practices and carpooling were only weeks away.

Those weeks flew by, and as the Aug. 1 bell rang so did reality and routine!

Now that my children are in college, I miss those bittersweet moments in which Back to School shopping led to meltdowns and ice cream all in the same day! I also miss the feeling of a fresh start, a fresh school year, a new team, new teachers and a new grade in which children discover and learn every day.

In this edition, we are excited to share with you a plethora of entertaining and educational articles that embrace the thrill and fear of going back to school.

We have a great feature for college students on how to practice mindfulness even when college life can be overwhelming at times. AND let’s not forget those lunch boxes–they can often be used for the best love notes to your child!

Before you know it, the holiday break will be right around the corner! We hope that you all embrace this new beginning even if a new school year is not in your horizon. Take the time in August to embrace the last part of 2022. Commit to educate yourself on how you can make a bigger impact in your community, help a teacher, pay it forward and most importantly stay healthy.

As always, we want to thank our loyal advertisers, because they are what has kept us going for 19 years! Stay healthy, stay safe and most importantly, be kind to yourself and others.

Most Sincerely,

Kristi K. Gomen Publisher

PRESIDENT/CEO Waylon Krush Waylon.Krush@LifestyleCFL.com PUBLISHER Kristi Karst Gomen Kristi.Gomen@LifestyleCFL.com EDITOR Alexis George Alexis.George@LifestyleCFL.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Michael Feland Ryan Marshall

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL INTERN Alexandra Sullivan

WRITERS

Tarre Beach, Michael Brehne, Stina D’Uva, Nancy Glasgow, Kimbra Hennessy, Kristen Jackson, Don Long, Rich Maladecki, Nicole Paskowsky, Erica Rudnick Macalintal, Alexandra Sullivan

SALES / MARKETING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER RICK MCMASTERS Rick.McMasters@LifestyleCFL.com DIRECTOR OF PROPOSALS AND CONTRACTS SHARON LAM Sharon.Lam@LifestyleCFL.com

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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 Lifestyle® CFL. Copyright 2022. 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. August 2022.

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+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | August 2022 Departments 6 8

Features 18

26 32

38

48

INBRACE THE SMILE OF YOUR DREAMS!

Premiere Orthodontics delivers high quality, fast and effective orthodontic treatment results for children, teens and adults, fit for any fairytale ending.

BETTER TOGETHER AT THE ROSEN JCC

Learn how the Rosen JCC is adopting a form of a town square concept.

SCHOOL DAYS ARE HERE

Are you or your kids prepared for school to start up? Hit the books with these ideas on how to get ready.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN METROWEST

Lunchbox Playtime

LIVING MINDFULLY

A Guide to Practicing Mindfulness in College

10

YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED

12

DANIEL’S CORNER

14

TALK OF THE TOWN

16

HOMESTYLE

20

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

22

The Right of Partition A New Season of Art

Conversations for Your Community Keep Your Dorm in its Most Organized Form

Arts and Culture Flourish in Orlando

TECH

4 Apps Teachers Can Use for a Successful School Year

24

HEALTH +WELLNESS

28

EXPERT ADVICE LAW

30

ON TREND

34

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW

36

Parents, Give Yourself Grace (and Space) for Mental Wellness Time to Leave the Nest A+ Nails

Celebrating the Woman Next Door

DID YOU KNOW

“Wild Kingdom” is Coming to Orlando

The MetroWest Master Association shares back to school safety tips, important information about the need for sports physicals before the start of school, a recap of MetroWest MusicWORKS and more.

42

INSTYLE

INCLUSIVITY MATTERS

44

YOUR LOCAL

46

YOUR LOCAL

50

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Learn how one student with a disability found meaningful employment.

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

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IN THE KITCHEN

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Material Girl: Saint Cloud Woman Starts Boutique With Premium Fabrics The Right to Vote, You’ve Got It, So Use It! Here Comes School Awaken the Genius

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+ IN THE Kitchen

Lunchbox Playtime Earn major parenting points with these school lunch surprises.

By Nicole Paskowsky

I

f your lunchbox-packing routine has lost its magic, it’s time to stop cutting off the crusts and take your school lunch game to the next level.

One way to keep your kids on their toes is by sneaking in a fun surprise.

These lunchbox twists are sure to make your kids smile, giving them a boost of energy to fuel the rest of their day.

Get in Shape

You don’t have to be a Pinterest superstar to turn a sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary. A simple cookie cutter transforms a standard square into a flower, a star, or a gingerbread man. Take it up another notch by swapping in French toast for a twist on everyday sliced bread. Think about a surprise filling inside your shaped sandwiches, such as strawberry jam with ham and provolone (think Monte Cristo), or rainbow sprinkles dusted over peanut butter and jelly. Slices of cheese, watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, and cucumber are also easy to cut into shapes.

Hide a Message Finding a message in an unexpected place is always a fun surprise.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

For instance, you can use a knife or toothpick to etch “I’m thinking of you!” into the peel of a banana, apple, or cantaloupe. A non-edible fruit peel is also a great place to decorate with a temporary tattoo, such as your kid’s favorite cartoon character. Try drawing a heart or smiley face on a sandwich using sprinkles, a food-safe marker or adding googly eyes or stickers to your child’s juice box or sandwich bag to instantly brighten their day.

Think Outside the Breadbox

If the sandwich routine is getting stale, leave the bread on the shelf.

Anything is fun to eat on a stick, so why not surprise your kids with lunch kabobs? Alternate chunks of salami, tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for an Italian theme, or make a BLT club by adding fresh avocado and turkey slices to bacon, lettuce, and tomato.

Pinwheel sandwiches using wraps or tortillas also provide endless flavor options, such as turkey and apple with grated cheddar, or try a southwestern style with cream cheese, salsa, and black beans. You can even skip rolling the tortilla and make a quesadilla.

Eat Your Colors

We eat with our eyes first, and so do our kids. When something is beautiful to look at, it’s more exciting.

Surprise your child by incorporating their favorite color into their lunch.

Try switching up foods that come in multiple colors for their lesser-seen alternatives, such as purple carrots, blood-red oranges, blue corn chips, or green pesto pasta. Let your inner artist shine and make it a complete color story by sticking to one shade for a monochrome lunch or mixing complementary colors.

+ LIVING Mindfully

A Guide to Practicing Mindfulness in College

By Erica Rudnick Macalintal

A

s the new school year begins, college students can find it overwhelming to transition from a leisurely summer to a regimented schedule of exams, homework, and other obligations. With so much happening so quickly, it’s easy to let your time get away from you, but practicing mindfulness – being fully aware, focused and in the present moment – can help you reclaim your time and make school more manageable. What’s more, many universities here in Orlando have resources for students that can help.

Exercise is a fun and rewarding way to engage mindfulness. It keeps you grounded for a finite amount of time in which the only goal is to move your body beneficially and enjoyably. Both high and low intensity workouts can do the trick. The University of Central Florida (UCF) has a fully equipped fitness center as well as a group workout schedule that is available to all students including yoga, cycling and other classes. Rollins College also has several onsite athletic facilities for physical exercise including a swimming pool and tennis court for student use.

Another way to practice mindfulness is to do just that – practice it. Meditation is especially helpful for this, and UCF offers both the Koru Basic Mindfulness Course, a free, interactive course available to students that helps teach skills and techniques emphasizing mindfulness, and the Mindful Minute, which uses the HeartMath Inner Balance™ App and sensor to help recognize and understand physiological symptoms of stress to better manage them.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Rollins College offers Mindful Moments for students, an initiative designed to provide resources encouraging mindfulness, community, and spirituality. Signing up for their mailing list enables participants to receive new prompts (as well as gives access to archived ones) inspiring pause and reflection. Meditation sessions are held both virtually and in-person weekly so students in need of a breather can take advantage.

When all else fails, simply getting away from your computer and out of your study room can do wonders to help recenter yourself. Central Florida has an abundance of parks, trails and other spots that allow you to get back to nature. UCF also has multiple nature trails right on campus that both students and the general public can take advantage of year-round, and for students of Rollins and Full Sail University, there are tons of local options: Kraft Azalea Gardens is one of the best kept secrets in Winter Park for quiet and stillness, and the sprawling Lake Baldwin Park is also dog-friendly (spending time with furry friends is a great way to decompress).

Starting the school year can be stressful, but with a tiny bit of effort and some mindfulness, it can be much less nerve-wracking and much more enjoyable.

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+ YOUASKED We Answered

The Right of Partition

Learn more about the rights a co-owner of a piece of real estate property has in Florida.

By Kristen Jackson, Jackson Law P.A.

Q: A:

How can one brother simply decide he wants to sell and think he can force the rest of us to agree?

My father died three years ago leaving his Florida home to his five children. Since my father’s death, my siblings and I have shared equally substantial earnings from renting out the property. One of my brothers now wants to sell the property because home values have doubled over the past couple of years and because he, being unemployed, feels he needs quick money. My other three siblings and I do not wish to sell and are happy with the rental income we earn.

It is called Partition Action.

Unfortunately for the four of you, your brother can hire an attorney and file a lawsuit to force a partition of the family home now co-owned by all of you. When someone co-owns a piece of real property in Florida, he or she has an absolute right to seek legal action to force a partition. Under Florida statutes, an action for partition can result in two types of property division: 1) in-kind, or 2) by-sale.

Like pieces to a puzzle, inkind partitions physically divide the property. If it is impracticable to divide the property by carving out a usable portion for each owner, Florida partition sale laws allow the property to be sold at auction. The proceeds from the Florida real estate partition bysale will then be divided between

the parties according to percentage of ownership. Partition bysale is the most common type of partition because it is extremely difficult to split up most properties such as a home or office building. Partitions in-kind are usually reserved for large tracts of vacant land, where the land can easily be divided into separate parcels.

Before you and your siblings start a property war with your brother, you might want to give his request some consideration.

Florida is experiencing a Seller’s Market, so your brother is correct that the real estate market has increased substantially. It is probably the best real estate market Florida has ever experienced and the value of properties doesn’t seem to be declining in Florida any time soon. So, each of you

has an equal opportunity to take advantage of increased wealth by selling. If you wait for a Buyer’s Market to return, you could lose as much as 35% of your current property value, or more, depending on the condition of the home.

Furthermore, the cost to hire lawyers to represent a defense for those not wishing to sell, the cost for the partition fee, court costs, auction and real estate fees would erode any benefit to the five of you. You may want to consider your brother’s suggestion to sell the property or, alternatively, you and your other three siblings might consider buying out your brother’s interest at a value the five of you can agree upon. Before you start a property war, seek consultation from a real estate lawyer.

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 | August 2022

+ DANIEL’S Corner

A New Season of Art

For the second year, the memorial W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship Program at the Garden Theatre offers great opportunities to theatre arts students.

By Tarre Beach

T

his month, the Garden Theatre will officially announce the recipients of the W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship for the 2022-23 season. For a second year, Central Florida theater arts students get a chance to earn while they learn.

According to Garden Theatre Artistic Directing Consultant Roberta Emerson, this year’s crop of apprentices is raising the bar.

History of the Apprenticeship

The W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship was named in honor of 16-yearold Monteverde Academy student Daniel Mills, who tragically died in a boating accident in 2020. The program, which is generously funded by Daniel’s parents Harold and Rosy Mills, is a way of remembering Daniel’s artistic spirit and supporting other theater art students.

Like apprenticeships in other skilled trades, such as carpentry, cooking, and hairstyling, the W. Daniel

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Mills Apprenticeship offers a structured form of paid worker training that combines on-the-job learning with classroom or workshop instruction. The yearlong apprenticeship accepts applications in July from artists ages 13 to 22 who are interested in apprenticing in performance, theater direction, design, technical work, and performing arts education.

A Wealth of Learning

All this year’s applicants submitted a short video and went through an interview or audition process before they were selected for the program.

Once chosen, all apprentices have access to Garden Theatre’s education masterclasses, camps, and other learning events at no cost, and will also be able to attend rehearsals for free.

As part of their training, apprentices will participate in weekly professional development workshops and will take part in an original/devised production. Past apprentices have said getting to work on a production from

conceptualizing a theme to performing for an audience was extremely beneficial and artistically rewarding for them.

Adding even more value to the program, all apprentices are considered for paid opportunities working on Garden Theatre mainstage productions and education programs.

A program like this is not common in the Central Florida performing arts community, making it an extremely sought-after apprenticeship.

Emerson says she is impressed with this year’s group of apprentices.

“We are so encouraged, motivated, and excited about all our Daniel Mills Apprentices. We look forward to seeing how they hone their theater arts skills.”

Keep Up to Date: Look for profiles on different 2022-23 W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship Program recipients every issue.

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+ TALK of the Town

Conversations for Your Community

By Rich Maladecki

A

s summer begins to wind down, it is time to start preparing for a new reality which can include going back to school and work. While this can be saddening, there is still so much to look forward to in the coming months. Here is your inside scoop to what is happening in our beloved Central Florida community.

New Reality — with schools reopening soon, this is the perfect time - to gather as a family - to develop or to re-define a School Emergency Communications Plan. There are dozens of websites and recommendations that you should review to help with this process. Time spent now preparing may prove crucial sometime in your future.

Do each of your family members, including the children, have a library card? Today’s Libraries are more than a place to secure books - the library of today features books on-line, computers, “How To” classes, Audio Books, and Story Times. Please schedule a trip to your local library to learn more.

Congratulations to the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation of Winter Park on the opening of its new headquarters, properly called “The Edyth”. This remarkable new addition to the Winter Park community will offer a gallery, meeting, and classroom space.

With schools re-opening, please respect the laws relating to both speed limits near schools during opening and closing timeframes and school buses when their lights are flashing. Let us create a safe environment for our children.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Many of us travel - with regret - to the on/off ramps of the I-4 and Champions Gate intersection of Osceola County. Proudly, a new and improved traffic pattern has opened, the Diverging Diamond Interchange. This concept should ease the driving experience of that congested area. For your information, this same type of interchange is being planned for the equally challenged I-4 and Sand Lake Road area.

The Labor Day 3 Day weekend is fast approaching and traditionally this time features attractive and affordable Florida lodging options for staycations.

Consider a family get-a-way weekend package now, to build another Summer of ‘22 memory.

Bon Appetit - The popularity of Central Florida’s Magical Dining month continues this year from August 28 through October 2 at over 40 regional restaurants. This is your opportunity to enjoy a 3-course dinner for $40 per person at dozens of Central Florida’s most popular restaurants. (Hint: advanced reservations are always recommended). For a review of the participating restaurants, please reference the Visit Orlando website.

A new gathering experience has opened in downtown Windermere — The Windermere Brewing Company has officially opened to the public. Early reviews have been positive, so let us try this new venue during the month of August.

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+ HOMESTYLE

Keep Your Dorm in its Most Organized Form

By Alexandra Sullivan

A

s an incoming college freshman, you may be wondering how to organize your very first home away from home— don’t worry, I’m here to help. Whether living by yourself or with roommates, organizing your dorm room is a helpful way to make this room into a home.

Recognizing what you need and don’t need

When you’re packing to move into your dorm, this is a good time to really recognize what you’ll be using and wearing every day. It helps to make a packing list, not only to make sure you don’t forget anything but also to think through every item you’re bringing. Don’t pack anything that you don’t use frequently. Leave your ironing board, full-sized vacuum and twenty pairs of shoes at home. Opt for a steamer, mini vacuum and one or two pairs of shoes instead. Don’t take up valuable space with clutter.

And don’t take up your drawers with too many clothes that will strain your back on laundry day.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Making the most of a small space The thing about most dorms is that they’re notoriously small. Making the most of a small space can be made easy if you have the right supplies.

Start off by getting some storage cubes or bins that you can stack. Stacking saves a lot of space. Utilize the room under your bed, at the top of your closet, in ottomans and on walls.

Hooked on hooks

Hooks on walls for jewelry, hooks over the door for towels and bags, hooks for wall decorations, the possibilities are endless! Hooks are a great way to utilize space above ground level. Most dorms have rules about putting holes in the walls, so make sure to use temporary or removable hooks if necessary.

Having a place for everything

Drawers and drawer organizers are very helpful for dedicating space to certain categories of items. For example, having separate sections in a drawer for makeup and hair supplies

or socks and shorts can make putting those items away feel easier. It will also help you make the most of the space you have.

Having a separate work and lounge space

Working from bed not only makes you more susceptible to getting distracted, but it can also make it harder to fall asleep in that bed later once you associate that space with studying. Having an organized desk to work at is crucial to better study habits and a more functional workspace. Keep the things you use most on top of your desk and the things you don’t use as much under. Put the things you use most near your dominant hand and group similar items together. Being able to see everything will save you time and make putting things away easier.

Once you use these organization tips, you’ll never want to leave your dorm sweet dorm.

InBrace the Smile of Your Dreams!

Premiere Orthodontics delivers high quality, fast and effective orthodontic treatment results for children, teens and adults, fit for any fairytale ending.

W

alt Disney once said that the secret to making your dreams come true is curiosity, confidence, courage and constancy, with the greatest of these being confidence. At Premiere Orthodontics, confidence is also at the forefront of why they do what they do – making smile dreams come true.

“My number-one goal is to give every patient the smile of their dreams. No one else will work harder to make that a reality,” says Dr. Jason Battle, DDS, CAGS, of Premiere Orthodontics.

A beautiful smile not only improves your image but it boosts your confidence. Even now, uring times of stress, exhaustion and seemingly never-ending uncertainty, familiar activities such as working out or getting a haircut make you feel good and have the power to completely change your mood. Dr. Battle says teeth are an important part of that.

“When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you do good.” says Dr. Battle.Over the past several months, Dr. Battle has brought new, revolutionary technology into

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Central Florida Lifestyle

|

August 2022

his practice that corrects common orthodontic concerns quickly, effectively and invisibly through an option called InBrace. Premiere Orthodontics is central Florida’s only InBrace provider. It is teeth straightening on autopilot with a personalized Smartwire™ hidden behind your teeth that gently perfects your smile.

“InBrace is a great option for adults who don’t want braces because they are unsightly, don’t want to deal with aligners because of the maintenance and disruption, but still want to straighten their teeth,” says Dr. Battle.

Over the past several years, Dr. Batle has also brought new technology into his practice that reduces the number of orthodontics visits required of his patients. An initial visit is no longer necessary to establish patient goals and treatment plans, and many follow-up visits can also be completed through virtual appointments. Not only does this offer peace of mind, but it also makes the process much easier.

Using a traditional method for a clear aligner treatment plan using Invisalign and 3M, with minimal

assistance from visible braces, aligners are changed out every one week.

The accelerated treatment plan allows Dr. Battle to cut the treatment time in half. Even complex surgical cases involving major under bites and over bites can be handled with the same treatment plan as more simple orthodontics cases, and these patients can take advantage of virtual visits, too.

“My patients can reach their smile goals faster with the accelerated treatment plan, and I’m there for them every step of the way,” Dr. Battle says. “I’ll do whatever it takes to get them to happiness.”

The highly trained team at Premier Orthodontics works hard each and every day to provide friendly, high-quality orthodontic care to children, teens, and adults. Dr. Battle has been practicing orthodontics since 2004, with a focus on accelerated (fast) and cosmetic (nearly invisible) orthodontics. He promotes an open, respectful environment where all patients are listened to and treated as valued members of the practice family.

Elite

C E N T R A L F L O R I DA

Elite Central Florida is an annual awards event that celebrates the most elite organizations, businesses, non-profits, and community leaders that focuses on supporting, enriching, and going above and beyond for the Central Florida community.

Accepting Nominations Now Awards Ceremony: January 12, 2023 (6pm to 9pm) Location: Rosen JCC Town Square of Orlando Do you know a business or organization that is an Elite?

Do they support, enrich and go above and beyond for their community?

Nominate them now for their eligibility to be an Elite in Central Florida!

elitecentralflorida.com Elite Categories • Elite Community Hero

• Elite Community Sports Team

• Elite Community Business

• Elite Travel Destination

• Elite Community Non-Profit

• Elite Community Event

• Elite Tech Company

• Elite Theme Park

• Elite Medical Practice 100% of the profits will be donated to the Rosen JCC for the development of a splash pad for the community. Our goal is $100,000!

+ ARTS & Entertainment

Arts and Culture Flourish in Orlando

By Erica Rudnick Macalintal

S

ummer break may be ending, sending us back to lesson plans and exam schedules, but that doesn’t mean that the local arts and culture activity is taking a break.

The city’s burgeoning arts and culture scene has been a point of pride for Olando residents for quite some time, and it shows no signs of slowing down. There are lots of ways to enjoy, participate, and support the talented and innovative artists and organizations that call our town home.

Some of the best things about the artistic and cultural landscape in Orlando are its presence in communities, its engagement of neighborhood venues and the exposure it offers to local artists. There are any number of recurring shows held throughout the year at local venues both big and small.

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) does its part on select 1st Thursdays, hosting space for local artists, musicians, restaurants and overall offering a gateway into the city’s arts and culture milieu (the 2022-2023 schedule is currently forthcoming).

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

When OMA takes a break, other neighborhoods continue the Thursday tradition. The Thorton Park Wine Walk occurs every 2nd Thursday of the month, where for $10 you can stroll the district, wine in hand, and enjoy craft vendors, art exhibits, live performances, and other fun goingson (pets are also welcome!). CityArts also offers a 3rd Thursday Gallery Hop with rotating artists, food trucks, and makers markets, and its location on Magnolia Avenue downtown makes it a great spot for popping in during bar crawls.

Thursdays aren’t the only day for artistic interests – plenty of other venues around town hold shows on the weekend. Bazaar Botanica is hosted on 3rd Sundays in Ivanhoe Village, and Hourglass Brewing in Longwood holds monthly themed art shows challenging artists to bring their best work (vendor sign up for these shows can be found on their respective websites and Facebook pages).

Of course, if you aren’t already an artist, there are programs available to

help broaden your creative horizons.

Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts offers classes throughout the year for both students going back to school who wish to include some more artistic endeavors in their routine and for those still on break through August.

Musical theater, drama, and community outreach incentives are all available for those interested in how to expand their cultural horizons right here in their hometown.

ArtReach Orlando, a non-profit organization that partners with Orange County Public Schools, also hosts multiple programs for local youth, and Orlando Museum of Art offers adult programs from instructional painting classes to yoga among the masterpieces. It’s wonderful to see Orlando doing so much to make itself a center for arts and culture, and the involvement of locals makes it that much more special.

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+ TECH

4

Apps Teachers Can Use for a Successful School Year

By Alexis George

S

tudents and parents are not the only ones preparing for the start of the new school year.

The educators in our community are prepping as well, and it is no easy task.

From decorating classrooms to creating quality lesson plans, teachers are working overtime to ensure they are set for success.

The Covid-19 pandemic showed educators, parents and students alike how the use of technology can impact learning inside and outside of the classroom. So, if you’re an educator, here’s 4 apps you can use for a successful school year.

can learn in the way that works best for them.

2. Kahoot!

This global learning platform company allows individuals and corporations to create, share and host learning sessions. Combining curiosity and play to learn, Kahoot! can be used to: ■

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1. Google Classroom

Google Classroom’s featured tools make managing, measuring and enriching the learning experience for students easier. A few neat free perks include:

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The ability to track student progress in the gradebook and export scores to the school’s student information system.

The ability to prepare and schedule tasks, assignments, and quizzes across multiple classes.

Allowing students to snap and submit a picture of their paper homework.

Giving students the ability to adjust accessibility settings so they

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

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Host games live via videoconferencing or send self-paced games to connect with students.

Identify topics that need follow up and help students practice for assessments.

Import or create slides and combine them with various question types for a seamless interactive lesson.

Recap on topics to improve knowledge retention.

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4. ClassDojo

ClassDojo connects teachers and families by sharing the students’ most important learning moments in the classroom and at home. Benefits of using ClassDojo include: ■

3. Moby Max

Designed to help teachers close learning gaps for children grades K-8, MobyMax creates informed teaching with formative assessments and classroom excitement with team and fluency games. MobyMax features include:

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Automatically assigning lessons to each student based on their diagnostic results.

Providing a complete picture of a student’s missing skills based on current and previous lessons.

Using Fluency Team Games to allow students to work and compete to earn points for their team (a fun way to encourage students to have value and respect for one another).

Access to the Messenger Tool to communicate back and forth with students.

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Using ClassDojo alongside the school’s Learning Management System for classroom and behavior management Safely sharing photos, videos and updates on a private feed to give families a view into the classroom.

Adding events to a calendar and setting automatic reminders.

Having access to activities that promote social and emotional learning (mindfulness, gratitude, empathy).

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+ HEALTH & Wellness

Parents, Give Yourself Grace (and Space) for Mental Wellness Lisa Spector, MD, FAAP

H

ands up if you’ve said this to yourself at some point: “I’m supposed to be the parent, but I have no idea what I’m doing.”

How about “Other moms and dads can handle this, so why can’t I?” Or even, “I just can’t do this.”

Working hard to be the best parent (or caregiver) you can be is admirable, but it can also create a lot of pressure. No one is perfect. Everyone has bad days. And things that can go wrong often do, from daily dysfunctions, like spilled cereal and traffic to more serious problems, like illness or job loss. When that happens, trying to put a brave face on for your family and kids can add to the problems you’re already struggling with.

But here’s a secret: Part of being a good parent should include giving yourself permission to make your own mental health a priority. That’s because the way you handle your “bad days” (or weeks, months, or years) serves as a model for your kids and sets the stage for your family dynamic.

Here’s how you can get started.

Give Yourself the Right Foundations.

Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and spending at least 15 minutes a day doing something active outdoors are three of the best things

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

you (or anyone) can do for your own mental health. Even if all you can manage is a quick stroll during your lunch break or moving your bedtime up by 15 minutes, caring for your physical health will bolster your emotional wellness, too.

Build Your Support Network.

When it comes to relationships, look for quality over quantity. Scrolling Facebook or Twitter during your lunch break offers plenty of chances to chat with friends, but it may not offer the emotional benefits of more personal time. But a phone call with a friend, a family dinner, a board game or a neighborhood potluck can help buoy your mood in just a few minutes.

Find Your Everyday Happiness.

Studies have found that simple habits of gratitude and mindfulness can play a powerful role in mental wellbeing – and even better, they’re habits you can share with your kids. If you eat dinner together, stay at the table a few minutes longer and ask everyone to share things they’re thankful for or happy about. If you keep a journal, make a few quick notes about how you feel before you go to bed.

Be Honest with Your Kids.

It can be hard to talk to your children about a difficult situation – whether

that’s your own mental health, family finances or scary headlines in the news. If you’re not sure where to start, let them guide the conversation. Ask what they already know (or think they know) about the situation, and then help them address any worries or “what-ifs” in a supportive way.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help.

For many people, mental health struggles often come with the even heavier burden of stigma. We don’t talk about it, and we often cope with our problems alone. But that isn’t a long-term solution – and it’s important to talk to your physician or contact a mental health professional if you feel overwhelmed.

If you or someone you know needs more information about community resources available for families in crisis, visit EmbraceFamilies.org and click on the Find Support tab, then I’m Looking for Help. You can also find more tips for parents, kids and teens at Nemours’ KidsHealth. org.

Lisa Spector, MD, FAAP, is Division Chief of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida. Nemours Children’s Health collaborates with Embrace Families to raise awareness of and prevent child abuse.?

Nemours Children’s Health goes well beyond medicine to help ensure good health. Since day one, we’ve looked to improve children’s medical care with programs to treat all kinds of issues that affect the health of kids now and even when they’re all grown up. Like the social health checkup we created to identify things in a child’s life that can have bad health effects. It takes a look at housing, schooling, and even playtime to spot issues and help fix them. That’s just one more example of how Nemours Children’s goes well beyond medicine.

Well Beyond Medicine

Go well beyond at Nemours.org/Beyond

Better Together at the Rosen JCC Learn how the Rosen JCC is adopting a form of a town square concept.

By Author/Writer

By Alexis George

F

ounded in 1994, the Jack & Lee Rosen Jewish Community Center (Rosen JCC) began as a satellite branch of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando.

But after becoming incorporated as an independent organization in 2015 and with donations provided by Harris Rosen and The Harris Rosen Foundation in 2009 and 2016 respectively, the organization has expanded to include a state-of-the-art community center, a school, fitness center, multipurpose theater and more in Southwest Orlando.

With a strong and well-earned reputation to uphold, the leadership at the Rosen JCC continues to work daily to fulfill the organizations mission of building community, strengthening family life, and promoting Jewish values.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

Dr. Reuben Romirowsky, CEO (Chief Executive Officer) says it is important to note that one does not have to be of Jewish faith to call the Rosen JCC home. The Rosen JCC takes pride in its diverse local community and embraces and welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.

“It is not just a Jewish institution.

We affirm our faith tradition, but our motto is ‘Better Together’ because we share more together than we have differences and if we celebrate what we have in common we are all going to be happier and successful,” says Dr. Romirowsky. “It’s a simple motto but to be better together you have to believe that you’re not better alone.”

So, in an intentional effort to rebrand, the Rosen JCC has initiated a Town Square Concept. As such, the organization is looking to be a con-

vener for the community, providing a space for families to access programs and services that add value to every stage of the lifecycle. This vision is a radical pivot away from what is traditionally known as a Jewish Community Center.

Historically, the Rosen JCC’s business model was founded on the relationships built with families and their little ones from 6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) to 6 years old (the accredited early childhood program). As the organization continues to grow, Dr. Romirowsky says there is a growing need to cater to the diverse lifecycle needs of families living in Orlando so that connections built with community members do not cease to exist once the youth move on to primary school.

An example of this would be the

Brain Fitness Academy, a program the Rosen JCC has developed in partnership with the Dr. Phillips Y for those middle-aged and older.

“The Brain Fitness Academy is a program for cognitive decline and it’s a statement of intention that people in middle and later life need a program to help them prevent further deterioration before there is more dementia or worse Alzheimer’s,” says Dr. Romirowsky.

Sustaining and maintaining the accredited early childhood program amid innovation is a challenge, but Dr. Romirowsky says he is proud of the parents and board members who are willing to adjust so that the Rosen JCC can fulfill its larger sense of purpose. Still, the Rosen JCC is the same caring community it has always been, promoting diversity, inclusion, respect for all and giving back to the community.

“There is no judgment. There is no stigma. You’re welcome here, you are supported and there is no barrier to coming through our doors,” says Dr. Romirowsky. “We love the notion that there’s something for everybody and while there isn’t something for everybody right now the goal is to have enough for enough people that fills in some of the gaps that currently exist as the community is literally growing in front of our eyes.”

The Rosen JCC is always looking to partner with other nonprofit and corporate organizations that share the vision and mission they have as a town square.

“It’s not about being bigger, but it’s about having more impact on more peo-

ple,” Dr. Romirowsky says. “We hope that at some point this is a one-stopshop for multiple programs and services that either can be housed here or supported here and in other locations in the community.”

For more information visit: RosenJCC.org or call 407-387-5330.

407-387-5330 www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

27

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Law

Time to Leave the Nest

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

W

ell, your “kids” are off to college! They’ll always be your kids, but the law does not see them as children any longer.

They are now adults. And when your child becomes an adult, there comes new responsibilities that must be recognized, especially when your adult children leave home for school.

Transportation

How are your children going to get to their new home away from home? Most likely in a car. But whose car is it? If it is the parents’ car (titled and registered) that the child uses, the parents will remain financially liable for any of the damage caused using that vehicle; no matter who was driving it (with permission). Scary thought, but Florida’s vicarious liability laws ensure that the owner of any motor vehicle remains responsible for its use and operation no matter the driver. Some may argue that is not “fair,” but Florida law considers a motor vehicle a “dangerous instrumentality” and therefore, it requires a higher degree of responsibility for the owners and operators.

Luckily, there is a simple fix. If you transfer the title to your child and register the vehicle in your child’s name only, you are no longer liable for dam-

ages caused by that motor vehicle. You must still make sure that the vehicle remains insured to protect your child from any financial liability. Although premiums might be higher for the individual child than for the household, you would be well advised to consider the long-term effect of a money judgment against you compared to the additional premiums paid for the policy.

Health

Most parents are used to making medical decisions for their children. When they have a cold or flu, we might take them to the doctor to see if there is a need for medication. If our children are injured, we will take them to the hospital for emergency care. And if G-d forbid, they are in an accident and they cannot speak for themselves regarding their medical treatment, parents can speak up for them.

But, when your children are away from home at school, your children will be responsible for their own medical care. As adults, they can consent to or deny taking medications or treatment that is offered to them.

As adults, they now make their own medical decisions. But what happens when they are incapacitated and cannot speak?

Before your child goes to school,

you should have them execute a document appointing you a health care surrogate. You can keep that document and if necessary, present it to any physician or facility and they will look to you for all the medical decisions to be made for your incapacitated child. That same document will allow you access to all your child’s medical records.

Along those lines, you might consider having your child grant you durable power of attorney so that you may conduct all business for them or alongside them. This would include buying and selling automobiles, signing leases, negotiating purchases, enrolling in programs, applying for benefits, credit, etc. This document could also give you authority to get their personal account information from any banking institution, credit card company or educational institution.

When our kids go off to school, we hope that they grow into responsible young adults. But no matter how responsible our children can be, there can be unexpected life events that still require parental involvement. Even when parents don’t recognize that their children are adults, the law does.

These simple safeguards can help parents maintain their “rights” when dealing with matters related to their adult children.

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 | August 2022

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+ ON Trend

A+ Nails These back-to-school nail ideas will send you to the head of the class.

By Nicole Paskowsky

A

new school year is the perfect opportunity to try a new nail trend. Showing up to class with a stylish manicure will make you feel confident and ready for success.

With so many DIY ideas out there, from gradient manicures to statementmaking press-ons, you don’t even have to book an appointment at a salon.

Equally suited for the classroom and Instagram feed, these back-to-school nail ideas will have your fingers looking fabulous as you flip through textbook pages this fall.

Ombre

Very Periwinkle

Nail art that pays homage to nostalgic patterns from the millennium is having a major moment. Think flowers, smiley faces, space-age swirls, and cow and leopard animal prints— basically anything you might find on a T-shirt from the early 2000s. Mixand-match designs in the same color palette or give each nail something completely unrelated. And thanks to the rise of DIY manicures, even nailart newbies can get pro results when applying complicated designs. Try gel strips from ManiMe laser-cut to your exact nail shape or the 100% nail polish strips from Color Street that contain a base coat, color coat, and topcoat all in one.

When Pantone announced a dreamy, blue-toned periwinkle hue as its official 2022 Color of the Year, a new “it” nail color was born. According to the world-leading expert in color, periwinkle “encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”

What better shade to get back into learning mode? Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel in “Crying Out Cloud” or Essie’s “You Do Blue” are two great options to give your fingertips a periwinkle pop. Keep it monochrome or use it as a base layer for a design, such as white clouds or a rainbow.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

You can never go wrong with a multicolored mani, and ombre nails are all the rage. You can apply two colors and create a color gradient on each individual nail using a wedge-shaped makeup sponge, or paint solid colors that progress slightly to create an ombre effect across your entire hand.

Popular palettes this season feature bright shades of yellow, peach, and pink, but go with any color story that speaks to your personality.

Mixing Prints

Rhinestone Accents

Attribute this trend to the Euphoria effect. The show has had a major influence on popularizing over-thetop acrylics, and Cassie’s princesspink oval nails lined with rhinestone diamonds down the middle are most popular. If you want to rule the school with this sparkly nail art, buy a set of natural round medium tips, such as from Apres, and paint them in soft pink. The show’s nail artist recommends securing the gems with Kiss’ Brush-On Gel Nail Glue to recreate the look at home.

Are you or your kids prepared for school to start up?

Hit the books with these ideas on how to get ready.

By Tarre Beach

H

ere in Central Florida back to school does not necessarily happen like it does in other parts of the country. We often go back to school a few weeks earlier than the Western or Central United States and it is still hot when we do. So, there are no cooler Fall days to help remind you it is time to get junior ready for another year of the three R’s: reading, writing, and arithmetic. Nevertheless, the first day of school is just around the corner. School starts for Orange and Seminole Counties on Aug. 10. Some private schools may begin instruction as late as Aug. 22.

Smart Supplies

By now you should have looked up your child’s school supply list. The standard elementary school supplies include glue sticks, folders, highlighters, No. 2 pencils, markers, binders, and hand sanitizer. You may want to get a new backpack for your child.

They have outgrown Paw Patrol and want something a little more fashionable or the darn thing is falling apart.

Either way, there are some choices about what kind of carrier to get.

For the kid who needs to have lots of stuff with them, a rolling backpack may be useful. Check with

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

your school if they are allowed (some schools regulate the type of backpack students can have). Whatever you go with, strong materials and reinforced stitching are things to look out for in a quality carrier.

Looking Sharp

New clothes used to be a musthave at the start of the school year.

With the price of things higher than usual and supply chain issues, you may want to save a little money and check out gently used kids’ clothes through a consignment shop such as Once Upon a Child, or through apps such as Facebook Marketplace or Letgo. You could save some money.

Testing, Testing

This is the first year that the Florida Standardized Assessment (FSA) testing, an end-of-year, make-or-break test, will not be administered. It is being replaced with three rounds of progress monitoring tests which will be given throughout the school year to help better track individual students’ performance and give them the tools they need to improve their knowledge of core subjects.

While there is still some controversy around this change, you may

want to talk to your child about it so they know that instead of one big test at the end of the year, there will be three smaller tests to gauge how they are doing. Just like many adults, kids do better when they know what is coming rather than being surprised.

Open Up and Say Ahh

All public, charter, and private schools are required to have a record of Florida Certification of Immunization for each student, as well as a physical examination completed within the last 12 months. If your child is going to be playing any kind of sports, you will need to get a new sports physical for them for sure. Contact your primary care physician and make an appointment right away.

Back in the Swing of Things

With the interruption of in-person learning that happened during the 2020-21 school year, you and your child may still be a little out of practice with having a school routine. Now’s the time to get yourself and your kids mentally prepared for getting back on a schedule.

Talk to your kids to let them know that things are changing and work out an ease-back-into-school

Back to School Events in Your Neighborhood Check out these area events for some family fun.

Friday, Aug. 5

Pendana Back to School Bash 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Grace Alive Church 1400 N. Nowel St. Orlando, FL 32808 GraceAlive.church/events

Saturday, Aug. 6

12th Annual Back to School Expo 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Altamonte Mall 451 E. Altamonte Dr. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 AltamonteMall.com/events

bedtime routine. Let your kids be a part of making this plan. A suggestion might be to gradually move bedtime up a little earlier each night the week before school begins. Try adding prizes or rewards for kids who are in bed on time.

Work from Home Hints

Many parents now work from home a few days a week or all the time.

This may mean you ended up being a part-time summer camp counselor over the break. Juggling work and bored or rowdy kids can be tough.

Now you cannot wait for your kids to go back to school so you can get some peace and quiet at your home office.

Or conversely, the reduction of time with your kids could have you feeling lonesome or guilty. The point is your kids going back to school is a change for you too. Give yourself time to process this. For the parent who is missing their kids get a recent snapshot of your child doing something with you and make it your office screensaver or frame it and put it on your desk.

For the parent who is thrilled to have more work time, make sure to set aside time for a mental coffee break occasionally, just to make sure you are not overworking yourself.

Saturday, Aug. 6

Back to School Bash 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Trotwood Park Carroll Pavilion 701 Northern Way Winter Springs, FL 33708 InspiringHandsFL.org/events

Saturday, Aug. 6

Back to School Bash 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Divine Truth Christian Center 350 Anchor Rd. #1050 Casselberry, FL 32707 DivineTruthCC.org/events

Saturday, Aug. 6

Kids Swag Back to School Fashion Show 5 – 8 p.m.

New Life Church 3311 N. Powers Dr. Orlando, FL 32818 RIFProductionsInc.co/up-comingevents

Saturday, Aug. 6

Elmontay’s Boutique Back to School Backpack Giveaway Noon – 5 p.m.

1412 Clarcona Rd. Apopka, FL 32703 ElmontaysBoutique.com

Saturday, Aug. 6

Defining Movement’s Back to School Jam Noon – 6 p.m.

1030 W. Kaley Ave. Orlando, FL 32805 DefiningMovement.org/ back2schooljam

Saturday, Aug. 6

Back2School Block Party & School Supply Stroll 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Kissimmee Main Street Broadway Downtown Kissimmee, FL 34741 KissimmeeMainStreet.org/eventscalendar

Saturday, Aug. 6

Back to School Cookout 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

South Econ Community Park 3800 S Econlockhatchee Trail Orlando, FL 32829 Facebook.com/SheySoldIt

Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20 & 21

Florida Kids and Family Expo Sat: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Orange County Convention Center 9800 International Dr., West Concourse, Hall C Orlando, FL 32819 Tickets: $8-12 MyCentralFloridaFamily.com

Saturday, Aug. 27

Back to School Bird Bash 10 a.m. – noon Audubon Center for Birds of Prey 1101 Audubon Way Maitland, FL 32751 CBOP.Audubon.org/events

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

33

+ SOMEONE You Should Know

Celebrating the Woman Next Door In partnership with AdventHealth for Women, we are recognizing a woman in our community each month who is selflessly giving to others while raising families, supporting their loved ones and/or building their careers. Whether they know it or not, their stories inspire other women near and far.

D

r. Laine Powell is the founder and executive director of Tech Sassy Girlz, a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring underrepresented girls in middle and high school to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She firmly believes that leveraging technology is an opportunity for girls to be content creators, makers and entrepreneurs.

In 2016, Powell was invited by the White House to present STEM Access for Marginalized Girls and has received a host of community and professional awards including the 2021 WTS International Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership award.

Powell received her bachelor of arts from the University of Florida and her doctorate in Instructional Technology and Distance Education from Nova Southeastern University, and is married to her college sweetheart, Courtney.

What is your WHY?

Representation matters. Women currently represent only 27% of the STEM workforce in the United States.

I founded Tech Sassy Girlz in 2012 to address the critical shortage of women and minorities being represented in

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

high-tech STEM careers. Tech Sassy Girlz is committed to fostering programs, mentoring and education that will cultivate the next generation of technology leaders to be more diverse and inclusive. I am passionate about addressing the gender and diversity gap in tech. I’m driven by a need to find solutions to help solve the lack of representation of diverse women in STEM. Part of the solution is providing middle and high school girls with access and exposure to diverse women in STEM fields. Tech Sassy Girlz helps in filling that gap.

What are you most proud of?

There are many great moments for Tech Sassy Girlz but if I had to narrow it down to one, it would be growing our signature annual Tech Sassy Girlz Day Conference from 40 students in 2012 to 500 in 2019.

The daylong conference introduces middle and high school girls to various STEM careers. Hosting this annual conference is not only critical for us to continue to introduce STEM to young girls, but also for the girls to have access to women who look like them that are making a difference in the world.

Laine Powell, Lake Nona

Since 2012, we have introduced STEM to over 2,500 girls through our afterschool programs, annual conference and workforce development program for high school students, Pearls in Tech. Our programs, offered at no cost, equip students to become the next generation of coders, computer scientists, application designers and developers. We are changing the trajectory of the girls by unlocking new career opportunities and helping to prepare them for high paying STEM-focused jobs.

What is the one word that perfectly explains who you are?

Resourceful

Would you change anything about how you have handled challenges or successes thus far in your life?

I have an amazing team who is passionate about the lives we are changing. The pandemic forced us all to slow down and focus on what matters. The pandemic taught me to celebrate the wins no matter how small!

+ DID YOU Know

“Wild Kingdom” is Coming to Orlando A new series highlighting the conservation efforts for Florida’s coral reefs.

By Alexandra Sullivan

utual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” is back and filming in Orlando for its new series “Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild” to bring light to conservation efforts and highlight animals showing signs of success. What’s coral-er than that?

Peter Gros, host of the original “Wild Kingdom” and conservationist with over 30 years of field experience, hopes that this series will help the new generation become committed to conservation and the protection of the natural world.

“Wild Kingdom” will film at the Florida Coral Rescue Center, a facility with the largest collection of coral reefs in the country. The center fights coral reef loss by providing homes for corals that otherwise might be lost due to disease and encouraging those corals to reproduce to repopulate the reef in the future.

Stony coral tissue loss disease is running rampant down in the Florida Reef tract, which is about 360 miles worth of reef. It affects 22 of the 45 coral species out on the reef.

In response to the spread of disease, it was determined by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and National Oceanic

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries, that it was best to keep these corals safe.

As a response to the call from state and federal agencies to bring these corals into safekeeping, the Florida Coral Rescue Center was born and now houses over 700 coral colonies, according to Jim Kinsler, manager at the Florida Coral Rescue Center.

“About 25% of the animals out in the ocean spend at least some part of their life on the reef, its nursery habitat and its living habitat for all kinds of different invertebrate species as well,” Kinsler says. “With the Florida Reef tract, we’re talking about 360 miles of reef, which effectively protects the Florida coastline from storm surge and other storm activity. So it has a real role not only for the marine environment itself but also the terrestrial environment.”

The reefs have a significant economic impact as well— the reefs are an $8.5 billion dollar engine for the revenue of the state of Florida, Beth Firchau, Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project Coordinator at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) says.

Firchau hopes that “Wild Kingdom” will not only inspire the next

generation but teach that while conservation seems like a big issue, when you work together anything is possible.

“Coral polyps are our little animals that live together and create these giant reefs. They got it right millions of years ago, you know, when you work together, you can make a huge impact,” Firchau said. “And that’s really what we’re hoping to have come out of this partnership with ‘Wild Kingdom.’”

While watching “Wild Kingdom” will help to educate viewers on successful conservation projects and the people working hard to keep our wildlife safe, the experts also call for people to physically become immersed in nature. This can be done by attending an AZA-accredited zoo and learning about the animals up close and personal. Gros says that it’s imperative to get young people involved as well since the future of our planet is in their hands.

“Our efforts are all about hope,” Firchau says. “And at a time when things don’t always seem as bright as they could be, we hope that our story and our program is something that inspires people and gives people hope that we can make a difference.”

PHOTOS BY FLORIDA CORAL RESCUE CENTER

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W H A T ’ S

H A P P E N I N G

MetroWest Public Safety Offers

Back-to-School Safety Tips

By Nancy Glasgow

F

or children attending Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the first day of school is Aug. 10. MetroWest Public Safety urges everyone to follow these safety tips for sharing the roads with our children, whether they are walking, riding the bus, or riding their bikes to school.

When sharing the roads with school buses:

When sharing the roads with young pedestrians:

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Do not block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic.

In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection.

Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign.

Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas.

Do not honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way.

Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

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If you are driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal to pass a school bus that stops to load or unload children.

Never pass a bus from behind or from either direction if you are on an undivided road if it is stopped to load or unload children.

If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop.

The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus.

Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks.

When sharing the roadways with kids riding bikes: ■

On most roads, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles, but bikes can be hard to see. Children riding bikes create special challenges for drivers

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because usually they are not able to properly determine traffic conditions. The most common cause of collision is a driver turning left in front of a bicyclist.

When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave three feet between your car and the cyclist.

When turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass.

If you are turning right and a bicyclist is approaching from behind on the right, let the rider go through the intersection first, and always use your turn signals.

Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling.

Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods.

Watch out for bikes coming from driveways or behind parked cars.

Check side mirrors before opening your door.

I N

M E T R O W E S T

Does Your Child Need a Sports Physical Before School Starts?

By Kimbra Hennessy

A

s back-to-school time approaches, many families are considering having their child join a school sports team. And while everyone knows that playing sports helps keep kids fit, encourages teamwork, and fosters lifelong friendships, some parents might not understand why it is important to get a sports physical at the beginning of the season – even if their child appears perfectly healthy.

Pre-participation sport physicals are required by Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) and are intended to identify children who may be at risk while playing sports. Student-athletes must undergo an annual sports physical prior to attending their first practice.

The primary goal of the sports physical is to help identify any pre-existing medical conditions that may be worsened by participating in sports.

The physical exam may detect conditions that make the student-athlete more likely to suffer illness or injury playing sports, allowing parents to make informed decisions regarding their participation in athletics. In addition, student-athletes with identified pre-existing conditions may be able work with their doctor to develop

strategies to prevent injuries should they decide to participate in athletics.

Medical clearance to participate in sports is determined following a physical exam that typically focuses on the cardiovascular, neurologic, and musculoskeletal systems. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the exam include a complete medical history and physical component, including measuring blood pressure, listening to the heart while lying and standing, and assessment of medical history. This medical history may indicate increased risk from participation in sports including symptoms occurring upon exertion, a history of heart murmur or high blood pressure and significant family history of premature death or disability.

Students who plan to participate in OCPS athletics programs must complete a physical each year. To find the required forms, visit the Orange County Public Schools website, click on the “Athletics” link, then look for the drop-down menu that reads “Sports Physicals.”

Also, if your child is in high school, electrocardiograms (ECG) are required of all high school studentathletes prior to the start of their athletic season. ECG screenings help identify athletes who are at risk for sudden cardiac arrest, which is the leading cause of death in athletics.

ECGs will be offered on high school campuses through local medical providers and organizations.

Finally, if your child is new to OCPS they will need a current vaccination record on file and proof of a physical conducted by a U.S. doctor within a year of enrollment (first day of entry at school).

If you need financial assistance to complete a physical or other family health care needs, please visit: https:// www.pcanorangecounty.com/ or https://www.shepherdshope.org/.

Make it a great school year, be safe and stay healthy!

https://www.ocps.net/departments/Athletics/sports_physicals

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

39

W H A T ’ S

H A P P E N I N G

Thousands Enjoy Second Annual

MetroWest MusicWORKS July 4 Event

ABOVE LEFT - Representatives from MetroWest Elementary and Westpointe Elementary accept a check for $5000 from the MetroWest Master Association (MWMA). From left to right: Julie Sanchez, MWMA General Manager; Lynn Walker Wright, MWMA Board Treasurer; Jim Drayton, MWMA Board President; Dr. Atresa Grubbs-Holmes, Westpointe Elementary Principal; Chamaris Delgado Baerga, representing Dr. Xhuljeta Gjini, MetroWest Elementary Principal; Madeleine Francois, MWMA Board Secretary; and Peter Osterrieder, MWMA Board Director.

MusicWORKS Sponsors: Title Sponsor Orlando Health

Premier and Venue Sponsor

By Nancy Glasgow

P

resented by Orlando Health, the second annual MetroWest MusicWORKS drew upwards of 10,000 attendees on July 4 at the MetroWest Golf Club.

Staged by the MetroWest Master Association, MusicWORKS is a free community event featuring live music and fireworks. MusicWORKS also offered a variety of dining options from several food trucks, a Kids Zone, face painting and more.

During the event, MetroWest Master Association board members and staff took to the stage to present a check for $5000 ($2500 each) to MetroWest Elementary and Westpointe Elementary, part of the $10,000 total that the Master Association donates annually to the two schools.

The entertainment lineup for MusicWORKS 2022 featured tribute bands honoring the magic of both Motown and Elton John. Get Ready, a tribute act to Motown super groups The Temptations and The Four Tops, performed timeless hits to the delight of the MusicWORKS crowd. MetroWest then celebrated America’s birthday “Philadelphia Freedom”- style with Elton Jonathan: a tribute to Elton John, bringing to life the music of one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Following the musical entertainment, a stunning 20-minute fireworks show was staged by Pyro Shows, a 50-year-old pyrotechnic company headquartered in Tennessee.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

MetroWest Golf Club

Diamond Sponsor FirstService Residential

Gold Sponsors

Bravo Supermarket, Brightview Landscaping Critical Intervention Services (CIS) GardaWorld

Silver Sponsor

Fairwinds Credit Union

Bronze Sponsors

Alcorn McBride, District 6 City Commissioner Bakari Burns, James Byrd Attorney, FM Solutions, Fountain Doctors, Johnson’s Wrecker Service, Marco’s Pizza, Metrocenter Office, the new Millennium MetroWest Apartments in Veranda Park, Orlando Dumpster Rents, Sihle Insurance Group, The Hudson Apartments, The Laundry Room, Walmart, and WastePro

I N

M E T R O W E S T

Vista Verde Nominated for Golden Key Awards

By Nancy Glasgow

V

ista Verde Apartments (https://www.vvmetrowest. com/) in MetroWest has been nominated for the prestigious Golden Key Awards presented by the Apartment Association of Greater Orlando for Renovation/Remodel of the Year, as well as for Curb Appeal.

“The MetroWest Master Association congratulates Vista Verde on its Golden Key Awards nominations,” says Julie Sanchez, MetroWest Master Association General Manager. “The

upgrades made by Vista Verde have had and continue to have a positive impact and brought tremendous value to our community.”

Vista Verde underwent an extensive remodeling program over the last year, with more improvements ongoing. Each award category is judged on such criteria as net operating income, amenities, before and after results, total dollars spent, and impact to the general neighborhood.

Vista Verde’s newly renovated one- and two-bedroom floorplans feature fully equipped spacious kitchens with upgraded quartz counters and stainless-steel appliances, wood-style plank flooring, and wood-burning fireplaces.

Golden Key Awards winners will be announced Dec. 3, 2022.

MetroWest National Night Out Returns Oct. 4

By Nancy Glasgow

M

ark your calendars for MetroWest’s National Night Out event Tuesday, Oct. 4 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the MetroWest Golf Club. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, enhancing the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of connection.

To celebrate National Night Out, neighborhoods across the nation host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency

personnel, exhibits and much more. National Night Out is celebrated by more than 38 million neighbors across 16,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide.

MetroWest’s National Night Out will feature vendors and exhibits, food trucks, kids’ events, crime prevention and safety demonstrations. Admission to the National Night Out is FREE, so please plan to join us for an evening of fun dedicated to strengthening our community bonds.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

41

+ IN Style

Material Girl:

Saint Cloud Woman Starts Boutique With Premium Fabrics

By Alina Alvarez

K

ateryna Hutchens, owner of Saint Cloud-based boutique Modern Shine, has loved fashion since she was a young girl. Growing up in Ukraine, she discovered her passion by watching and helping her mother, a master seamstress, make beautiful sparkly ballroom dancing outfits and elegant wedding dresses.

Now, with the help of some of the most premium fabrics in the world, she’s able to follow in her mother’s footsteps. By the time she graduated with her bachelor’s degree, she knew she wanted to have a business of her own one day.

However, due to the war in Ukraine, her dream was pushed aside as she had to relocate.

She earned her master’s degree and worked three jobs as an accountant in Kyiv, Ukraine before making the move to Florida. Once she got here, she noticed clothing stores were lacking the sparkly styles she loved and the lingering desire to open her own boutique resurfaced.

“I decided I wanted to be unique, and I wanted to bring something new,” Hutchens says. “My passion was always sparkly clothing with lots of rhinestones ever since I was a child and I noticed that there’s barely any of that type of clothing in stores, but I’ve also noticed lots of women who have rhinestones on their nails, on their accessories, belts, hats—like women love it.”

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

When picking out the items she wanted to include in Modern Shine’s first launch, Hutchens decided on a more casual collection while still finding small ways to implement the European-style glitz and glamor that inspires her brand.

Her main goals for the boutique are to sell premium quality clothing and offer affordable prices. Thanks to the unique materials she uses for her products, Modern Shine can deliver exactly that.

Almost all the products available on the boutique’s website are made of Turkish cotton and denim—premium fabrics known for their soft, luxurious feel.

“In Europe, it’s very popular to buy Turkish clothing because you’re 100% sure that it’s durable and good quality. You know that tomorrow when you wash it, it won’t fall apart,” Hutchens says.

The same can be said for the leggings and jackets available on Modern Shine’s website, which use eco-leather.

This leather is made from all natural fibers, 100% vegan and mimics the look and feel of real leather. Not only are these products more breathable and require less maintenance than standard leather, they’re also biodegradable, sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Products like leggings, jeans and joggers range from $45 to $65 and feature small rhinestones on the waist

area to give that shiny, sparkly look that Hutchens loves so much. A similar rhinestone detailing can be seen on the sleeves of the leather jackets.

While Modern Shine may have just one collection right now, Hutchens has big goals for the boutique’s future. She explains that she wants to expand the range of clothing offered from casual, everyday clothing to more “going-out” clothes and even lingerie.

She’s also playing around with the idea of creating home and pet collections. There’s no brick and mortar store yet, but if you’re in the Saint Cloud area be sure to check out this local online boutique at modernshineclothing.com and follow Kateryna’s journey on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

+ YOUR LOCAL | WOCC

The Right to Vote, You’ve Got It, So Use It!

By Stina D’Uva

B

y the time some of you read this article, you might have missed the right to vote in the upcoming primary election of Aug. 23. There is a deadline to register, and you might have overlooked it. However, there is still time to register for the general election on Nov. 3 if you get your registration application into the supervisor of elections office 29 days (about 4 weeks) prior to that date.

I am not a history buff, but I do know that our first election was back in 1788 and that election was not meant for all. Women and African Americans had to challenge authorities to earn that right. Brave people in our American history enabled me to have that right and I never take it for granted.

As a first-generation Italian American whose parents earned the title of American citizen, after passing a difficult test, I learned the importance of that title and their right to vote. They made it easy for me to vote since I was born in Brooklyn. Even though I grew up in a non-political household, I understood the importance of registering to vote as soon as I turned 18. I honestly cannot recall if I voted at every single election since I registered back in New Jersey 45 years ago. However, as I grew older and truly learned the importance of casting a vote for our elected officials, I have endeavored to vote in every single election.

What I have learned is that every single office, beginning even with Soil and Water Conservation can be a steppingstone for a person to seek an even higher office. We should be doing our research on every single person and on

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

issues that appear as a referendum, whether it be yes or no.

This year, once again, I will exercise my right to vote via mail in ballot. As I went to request my mail in ballot, I learned that there was an additional step in requesting it due to the passage of Senate Bill 90. In previous years, I could just go to ocfelection.com to request the ballot and it would be mailed to me. However, this year I made the request through the website but had to download it, print it, sign it, and email it back; adding several steps to a once effortless process.

To make your vote count in the upcoming primary election on Aug. 23 and in the general election on Nov. 3, use any of the means to vote, early voting, mail in ballot, or at the polls. Do your research and do not miss this important right as an American citizen.

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45

+ YOUR LOCAL | LNRCC

Here Comes School

By Don Long, Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce

I

n my school years, the end of “Summer Vacation,” as we called it, always came the day after the Labor Day holiday. Now, Pre-K through 12th grade students start school a month earlier. My theory for the increased length of the school year is that there is that much more for the students to learn. Preparation for the school year can be stressful for both students and parents. Not only is the learning process challenging, but so is the work needed to make the family ready to adjust to new supply needs, time scheduling, and necessities at home.

With Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) reopening their doors on Aug. 10 this year, I hope families have already started planning and organizing so that the students can return with positive attitudes and drive to the classrooms. I researched several sources to compile a list that I believe both parents and students should use: ■

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Review the goals and future of the students so that the classes where they enroll bring them satisfaction and a focus on the future.

Think about the planning of returning to school and how it affects budgets, transportation requirements, clothing, equipment/supplies, and one of the most important, scheduling so attendance and family time both receive emphasis.

Families may want to start returning to a routine for personal hygiene, meals, and bed and wake-up times that are like the new school year schedule.

Get those summer assignments finished and initiate learning habits by introducing books or learning materials that will help the students enter the classroom with confidence.

Do not forget medical checkups and tests that may be needed for either classroom presence or sports participation.

Identify the students’ areas of interest with a focus on the possibility of volunteering or interning at a local business or non-profit where the students can earn volunteer points for OCPS volunteer programs.

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

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Parents might also think about how parents can help with the beginning or throughout the school year to help enrich the education experience of all our students.

Parents and students should plan a sincere sit-down meeting to discuss the entire plan, find challenges and concerns while also reaffirming the importance of a lifetime of learning.

The Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce (LNRCC) supports local education with the help of its Education Committee. Over the past two years this committee supported and helped manage a tutoring program within Lake Nona that helped more than 100 students. LNRCC also offers volunteer programs ranging from administrative to event support. If you would like to become involved with LNRCC’s volunteer opportunities, please contact us at our office number.

LNRCC is a membership not-for-profit organization with offices located in Lake Nona at 6555 Sanger Rd, Orlando, FL 32827. 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.

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47

Inclusivity Matters: How One Student with a Disability Found Meaningful Employment

By Alexandra Sullivan

W

heelchairs and stretchers don’t just appear in the hospital where they’re needed, someone must put them there. At Orlando Health, one of those people is Isfar Ali. Isfar graduated from the University of Central Florida’s Inclusive Education Services (IES) Professional Certification Program, which led to his current position at Orlando Health. Isfar, who has communication-based intellectual disabilities, joined the program to prepare for joining the workforce and utilizing his motor skills.

IES at UCF gives students with intellectual disabilities an academic experience to learn how to utilize their greatest skills in the workplace.

Isfar’s father, Kaiser Ali, decided to help Isfar apply to the IES Professional Certification Program because he wanted his son to have the chance to find a job he could excel at.

“The main idea was that this is for students with a disability, you know, different kinds of disability, mostly intellectual,” Ali says. “So, the main idea was to basically ready them to put them into programs where they can have a job and employment.”

The program is a two-year experience where students can choose to study social services, hospitality or education.

Isfar chose to study both social services and hospitality during his program. He participated in classes that not only helped him learn about the area of concentration that he was interested in but in classes that taught professional skills.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

According to the IES website, internship experience coordinators work with each student to secure an oncampus work experience and connect with an off-campus internship partner. Once students complete the program, they receive a professional services credential.

Isfar worked at UCF Bike N Gold at UCF during the first semester of his program. His off-campus internship was at Orlando Health, where he interned for six weeks.

“Orlando Health has an initiative to employ student interns who have some form of an exceptional learning ability and so we partner with them,” Alia Hall, Internship Experience Coordinator at IES says. “I work with Orlando Health to come up with ideas to develop our program and their program simultaneously.”

After having Isfar as an intern, Orlando Health decided to hire him based on his exceptional work performance. Isfar has worked there for two years and has been recognized as a star employee ever since.

Brandon Hardison, who trained Isfar and has been working as his supervisor at Orlando Health, recognized Isfar’s work ethic and reliability from day one. Isfar’s job is to properly position stretchers and wheelchairs around the hospital so they can be of use to transporters and not obstruct any hallways. He is also responsible for cleaning and sanitizing them.

“We didn’t know what to expect at first when we got Isfar, but he’s been an asset to the team and the entire team is happy to have him,” Hardison says. “If there are any more applicants like Isfar who are looking for a place to work, I know Orlando Health is happy to have all members of the community.”

Hall is using Isfar’s success story and the feedback she’s gotten back from Orlando Health as part of the framework

for IES’s program going forward. As she places future students in places UCF has partnered with to employ them, she pays attention to the skills and assets required in these workplaces.

Isfar says that he really likes working at Orlando Health, even though it’s a lot of hard work. His father says that he would recommend the program to anyone like Isfar who is looking to utilize the skills they have outside of their disability.

“They find the appropriate scale for the development they can put. This is very important, to find the skill of the students when they’re in the programs and to transition them into the appropriate employment, job, or internship programs,” Ali says. “So that was definitely necessary, and I’d recommend this program.”

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

49

+ HOW YOU Can Help

Awaken the Genius Bishop Allen T.D. Wiggins

By Alexis George

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2022

with technology institutes, academic institutions and private corporations that are creating the technologies and jobs that will revolutionize our future,” Wiggins says.

In addition to strategic partnering, Frontline Outreach Inc. is raising money for its million-dollar fundraising campaign. The funds collected will aid in facility improvements and the purchase of cutting-edge equipment. Remaining fundraisers for the year include an Encore Breakfast on Aug. 4 and an MSI-Frontline Golf Benefit scheduled for Sep. 30.

Wiggins says it is important to meet the fundraising campaign goals so that Frontline Outreach Inc. can ensure Frontline Innovation Studios is an environment that promotes excitement about the future of technology.

“Our design for Frontline Innovation Studios is more than aesthetics; it will inspire Frontline’s youth to feel needed and wanted while motivating them to collaborate and create. In this new place, they will absorb the optimism and confidence to know that they are not only a part of the future, but through the Genius that we will awaken in them, they will create the future.”

To learn more about Frontline Outreach and Frontline Innovation Studios visit www.frontline-outreach.org

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: FRONTLINE OUTREACH INC.

S

ince its inception in 1967, Frontline Outreach Inc. has equipped urban youth for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Academics and Innovation Disciplines (known as the L.E.A.D. Model). Recently, the nonprofit announced the launch of a new educational program designed to immerse students in the different facets of technology during its first Annual Breakfast.

Called Frontline Innovation Studios, this state-of-theart-facility will expose Orlando’s youth to emerging technologies while providing them with hands-on experience in the field. With the mission to ‘awaken the genius’, youth in the community will have the opportunity to participate in four distinct program areas: communications, careers, currency and care of self.

Bishop Allen T.D. Wiggins, Hope Center West Founder, first established a strategic alliance with Frontline Outreach Inc. in 2013 and has continued to provide leadership to the organization since 2015. He explained that it was the pandemic that truly showed Frontline Outreach Inc. and the rest of the world how the acceleration of technology defines how we live, work, learn and connect as a society. As such, there became a clear need to position youth for careers that can enable them to seize their place and thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“As technology continues to grow and flourish, there will be more demand for professionals ready to take on technology careers,” says Wiggins. “When children start getting excited about technology and the potential it offers them from a young age, they’re more prepared for their future and the possibilities it offers.”

Frontline Innovation Studios will be supported by Ascend Studios with partnerships from locally renowned organizations like Full Sail University and more.

“In the years ahead, Frontline Innovation Studios sees itself as the epicenter of technology exposure to youth within our greater community. To accomplish this, we will have the broadest possible number of partnership relationships

be relieved.

choose well.

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