Central Florida Lifestyle: MetroWest December 2019

MetroWest DR. PHILLIPS | BAY HILL | ISLEWORTH | WINDERMERE | WINTER GARDEN

LIFESTYLE

Fall 2019/Winter 2020

TM

INSIDE

DIABETES...

DID YOU KNOW?

Thankful WHAT OUR KIDS ARE SAYING

24

HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST IDEAS

Photo Courtesy of MetroWest Master Association

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

PERSONALIZED BIRTH PLANS FOR

A MEMORABLE MIRACLE. Few things are more memorable than the birth of a child. With customized birth plans and concierge services to add those extra special touches, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is dedicated to making your birthing experience all you want it to be. So you can have the power to choose your ďŹ rst memories of their lifetime.

WinniePalmerHospital.com/Babies

+ LETTER From the Board

Welcome!

Welcome to the first issue of the quarterly MetroWest Lifestyle, published by the MetroWest Master Association (MWMA). The MetroWest community is owned by its members and managed by the MWMA, which has the overall responsibility for maintaining the standards of all common areas located within MetroWest. The MWMA Board of Directors is composed of five MetroWest residents who donate their time and expertise to the betterment of the community. The current board members are: Jim Drayton, President Jim Drayton’s professional background in banking, finance and real estate, coupled with his current role as the owner of mortgage company Orlando Home Loans, have helped manage the MWMA wisely and well. A 13-year resident of MetroWest, Jim served as a board member from 2010-2011 and currently serves as the president, a position he was elected to in December 2013. Jim combines his financial acumen with his passion for the community to ensure that MetroWest continues to thrive.

Stina D’Uva, Vice President For nearly 30 years, Agostina “Stina” D’Uva has been an integral leader in the Orlando community. As the President/CEO, her direction has helped grow The West Orange Chamber of Commerce into the driving force of business that it is today. In 2014, she was elected, and continues to serve as vice president of the MWMA and served as a board member of the Health Alliance Family Care Center from 2012 to 2017.

Madeleine Francois, Secretary A resident of MetroWest for the past 24 years, Madeleine Francois was a licensed Independent Life and Annuity Agent before retiring. Throughout her MetroWest residency, she has been actively involved in MWMA through committee service. Madeleine currently serves as president of the HOA 5 board and has served as chairperson for the Beautification Committee, as a member of the Welcome Committee and Social Committee, and as Neighborhood Watch program coordinator.

Victor Garofalo, Treasurer A member of the MetroWest community for more than six years, Victor Garofalo is a Brazilian immigrant who arrived in the United States in 2011 and graduated with a bachelor of business administration focused in business with a minor in economy from Rollins College. Victor is a commercial landlord and CEO of AFAM INVESTMENTS LLC, a Florida-based company with real estate investments throughout Central Florida.

Warren Nash, Director Warren Nash has been a resident of MetroWest for 17 years. His background includes 18 years in flooring sales, restaurant server and manager at Hard Rock Cafe, and employment at Walt Disney World. He has served on the HOA board for Vistas at Stonebridge Commons for four years and as president of that board for three of those years. He has also served on the master board of Stonebridge Commons for three years and has been an active member of the Stonebridge landscape committee for three years.

For more information about MWMA, visit www.metrowestcommunity.com.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

CEO/PUBLISHER Kristi Gomen kristi@karstmediagroup.com MARKETING MANAGER Gretchen Hahn gretchen@karstmediagroup.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lyndsay Fogarty lyndsay@karstmediagroup.com VP OPERATIONS & EVENTS Catie Moore catie@karstmediagroup.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Matt Richardson matt@karstmediagroup.com ONLINE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Megan Bildner megan@karstmediagroup.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Saadia Alvi, Dr. Jason Battle, Stina D’Uva, Jessie Fewell, Christie Fogarty, Kristina Giliberto, Dr. Leena Kamat, Olivia Sain

CONTACT US

FOR ADVERTISING INFO

407-821-7300

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

Follow us: • facebook.com/centralfloridalifestyle • instagram.com/yourlifestylemagazine • twitter.com/cflifestylemag

A Product of Karst Media

+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | November 2019 Departments 10

Features 8

THE MAYFLOWER AT WINTER PARK LAUNCHES MAJOR EXPANSION

New neighborhood to feature apartment residences, state-of-the-art health center and clubhouse.

12

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?

22

THE FIRST ACADEMY: CHAMPIONS ON & OFF THE COURSE

30

42

48

These young Orlando locals have an attitude of gratitude for all things in life.

This private, Christ-centered, college preparatory school serves students across the Orlando area.

INGRID & JAKE: A BEAUTIFUL HISTORY OF LOVE

This local bride and groom shared their dream wedding with family and friends in an intimate ceremony and reception that captured their love story perfectly.

TOP 24 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY GLISTEN

Our team has picked the best ways to celebrate the holiday season as only Central Floridians can do.

A MESSAGE FROM THE METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION

Discover tips and information about what’s happening in MetroWest.

Web Life

6

30

Go online for stories and photos not seen in print.

• More stories about from local communities • An expanded web calendar

Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW George Fakhoury

14

ASK THE LAWYER

16

HOMESTYLE

18

IN THE KITCHEN

20

DID YOU KNOW?

24

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

26

HEALTH & WELLNESS

28

WINE & SPIRITS

34

EXPERT ADVICE

35

HOSPITALITY SPOTLIGHT

36

38

YOUR LOCAL

52

MONEY MATTERS

How Can I Get My Inheritance?

How to Set Up a Saltwater Aquarium

Celebrating the Cranberry

What to Know About Diabetes

Nacré: A Voyage Into Elegance

How to Make Journaling a Habit

Sip On Sangria

How to Choose the Right Roofer

CFHLA Adopt-A-Scool Kick Off

Create Your Own Path The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

How to Avoid Overspending this Holiday Season

54

SNAPSHOTS

56

WHAT’S HAPPENING

58

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Community Happenings

Calendar of Events

Nehrling Gardens

7824 Lake Underhill Rd. #G Orlando, FL 32822

(407) 282.7498 www.PhantasticSmile.com

DR. PHAN

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GET TO KNOW DR. PHAN AND HIS FRIENDLY TEAM!

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

The Mayflower at Winter Park Launches Major Expansion New Neighborhood To Feature Apartment Residences, State-ofthe-Art Health Center and Club House

L

ong regarded as Winter Park’s premier senior-living community, The Mayflower at Winter Park is launching the largest expansion in its history, with the addition of a brand-new neighborhood.

Bristol Landing at The Mayflower will comprise 47 spacious 2- and 3-bedroom waterview residences; a 9,800-sq.-ft. Club House and Bistro; and an 84,842-sq.-ft.

state-of-the-art Health Center. The new neighborhood will be built on 16 acres, just to the west of the main Mayflower campus. It will include trails, water features and ample green space – making it ideal for walking and enjoying the outdoors.

Residences will range in size from 1,423 sq. ft. to 2,036 sq. ft. Five different floor plans will be offered, each with eatin kitchens with islands, walk-in closets, utility rooms and either patios or walkout balconies. All residences have been designed with open-plan living spaces, high ceilings, large windows and lots of natural light.

Serving as the gateway to the new neighborhood, the Club House and Bistro features an open-kitchen concept, lounge area and bar, game room with billiards, video room and al fresco dining on a waterfront deck.

Designed around a “household” model that will be inviting and homelike, the 4-story Health Center will incorporate a 24-unit Memory Support operation, as well as a 60-bed Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center with allprivate rooms.

“Bristol Landing at The Mayflower is the culmination of a carefully thoughtout strategic plan for our community’s growth – and it’s part of an ongoing investment in excellence,” says CEO Steve Kramer. “But, at the end of the day, The Mayflower is not about bricks and mortar. It’s about community … and the care, support and service we provide to everyone who lives here.”

Don’t Miss the Boat! Call Our Marketing Department Today: 407.672.1620

88141 PRAD WPL 11/2019

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

MAY 1574_AD_WPLifestyle_Expansion Advertorial.indd 1

10/22/19 10:39 AM

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ SOMEONE You Should Know

At Your

COURTESY OF GMF CONSULTING

Service

George Fakhoury teaches front line hospitality employees to think outside the box and make the sale.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

W

ith 75 million visitors in 2018, Orlando is no stranger to hospitality, and neither is George Fakhoury, president/CEO for GMF Consulting. For Fakhoury, it’s in his blood.

The principles of hospitality were ingrained in him at a young age as his parents worked within the airline and tourism industries. While he may not have known it at the time, lessons he learned back then were the foundation for his nearly 40 years of success in hospitality as an adult.

Fakhoury founded GMF Consulting in 1995 to help companies improve their bottom line through customer service, sales and marketing. The focus was on training front line employees to build their skills

through face-to-face training classes that showed real situations they may face. Through these classes, as well as a book titled “There Are No Sales Without Service,” he taught the six As: active listening, asking questions, avoiding barriers, advising the benefits, assisting the customer and achieving the sale.

“The basics never change,” Fakhoury says. “Once you know the basics, your journey to becoming an expert in the things that you do starts.”

Through the years, GMF Consulting began hosting events and getting other businesses within the hospitality industry, both small and large, involved. Through signature events such as Friday Lunch Breaks, After Hours Mixers, GMF Executive COURTESY OF GMF CONSULTING

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Invitational and more, the goal is to provide opportunities for networking that will expand beyond that particular event.

Since he is in the business of building relationships, Fakhoury considers his contacts within Orlando’s hospitality industry more than just partners or sponsors or clients.

“All of my clients are not clients — they are my friends,” he says. “I become friends with the people I work with because I want to provide them with honest service and integrity.”

Even more important to him than the relationships he builds through his work is the chance to give back to the community that has given him so much. Fakhoury includes a charity partner in all of his business endeavors. One Heart for Women and Children, an Orlando-based nonprofit organization that provides resources to families as they transition through and overcome varying hardships, has been the recipient of much-needed donations from the GMF Consulting network for the past several years.

“GMF Consulting is a company that cares for others and provides quality service,” he says. “We strive to do the best possible job, to serve our clients’ needs and wants, and to provide our sponsors and partners with the most possible exposure within our industry.”

Dedicated to serving our entire community locally.

Apopka • Bithlo • Clermont • Forest City • Groveland • Lake Ellenor • Leesburg • Meadow Woods • Pine Hills • Tavares • Winter Garden

We view our patients as unique individuals that deserve personalized care. Each patient has a very special need, and we strive to develop programs that not only meet these needs but also exceed the expectations of those receiving care.

For appointment information call (407) 905-8827.

We are currently accepting new patients: • Behavioral Health • Dentistry • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Optometry • Pediatrics • Case Management • Family Planning • Lab • Pharmacy • X-Ray

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For more information on our locations, services, or available career opportunities, please visit

community health centers

Did you know?

Community Health Centers, Inc. is one of our region’s largest not-for-profit providers of health and wellness services, caring for nearly 70,000 patients annually and contributing $78 million in economic impact on our region.

What Are You

These young Orlando locals have an attitude of gratitude for all things in life — big and small.

T

For?

hanksgiving is a time to reflect on and show thanks for all of the blessings in our lives. To some that means loving family members and friends. To others it means a roof over their heads and a means to support their family. To kids it can mean something different altogether. So we asked some of our youngest local residents what they are thankful for this year. Here’s what they had to say.

“I’m thankful for crafts.”

“I am thankful for stuffed animals because they make me feel happy.”

Annie, 3, Winter Garden resident

Nicholas, 1st Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student “I am thankful for parents because we’d miss them so much if we didn’t have them.”

“I am thankful that people share with those that don’t have stuff. That’s nice!”

Piper, 1st Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student

Michael, 1st Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student “I’m thankful for my family, pancakes and dinosaur oatmeal.”

“I am thankful for my school and God and for my family.”

Luke, 6, The First Academy student

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Hudson, 6, The First Academy student

“I’m thankful that grandma and grandpa are coming for Christmas.”

“I’m thankful for a wonderful family and friends and God’s creation.”

Levi, 5, Winter Park resident

Chloe, 6, The First Academy student

“I am thankful for toothbrushes and toothpaste because you could get a serious infection and they’d have to rip your tooth out.”

“I’m thankful my mom takes me to Disney.”

Maddie, 5, Maitland resident

Holland, 1st Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student

“I’m thankful for good friends that help each other and my mom and dad for being so great.”

Kenlee, 6, Lake Nona resident

“I am thankful for iPads to play Pokemon Go!” Tabish, 1st Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student

“I’m thankful for having a family and friends and thankful that I can help my community.”

Adley, 8, Windermere resident “I am thankful for my family and that God gave me a home, and I’m thankful that God gave me friends to play with. And I am thankful for my future puppy.”

“I am thankful for pizza and my life.”

Lyla, 6, The First Academy student

Ian, 2nd Grade, Windermere Preparatory School student

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

13

+ Ask the Lawyer

How Can I Get My

My Inheritance?

Find out why proper estate planning is an essential part of preparing for the future of your children and heirs.

Q:

My mom recently passed, and her Last Will left her house to my sister and me. She had no Last Will and neither I nor my sister could afford a lawyer to file probate. Consequently, my mother’s home was foreclosed on and auctioned off. The remaining assets in my mother’s estate were deposited with the State of Florida. We now learn that to receive these assets probate is still necessary. We still can’t afford a lawyer or court costs. It seems unfair. How can we get our inheritance?

By Kristen M. Jackson, Jackson Law P.A.

A:

The career accomplishments, earnings and savings of Baby Boomers, who were born between 1946 and 1955, were substantially more than their parents, the Silent Generation (SGens), or those 75 years or older.

The SGens were raised during war and economic depression. World War II strengthened the hard work and family values of this generation. These values became deep-seated in their children’s generation, who surpassed their parents’ achievements and monetary accomplishments.

Generation X (XGens) followed the Boomers. Their values began to shift with the coming of the computer Kristen M. Jackson is the founding partner of Jackson Law PA (407-363-9020). She is experienced in estate planning, real estate law, business and contract law. Her firm has earned an AV rating by MartindaleHubbell signifying the highest level of professional excellence as obtained through opinions from members of the bar and judiciary.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

age. XGens (ages 37-52) became focused on college education and placed an even greater emphasis on a college education on their children, the Millenials (ages 18-36). Unlike the SGens and the even more financially successful Boomers, XGens and Millenials have suffered financially with exorbitant college debt during a time when unemployment levels reached 13% as compared to today’s 3.5%.

Why are these statistics so relevant? It comes down to your interest in transferring wealth at your death through effective estate planning and without impacting your heirs with the hefty financial burden of hiring lawyers to receive their inheritance entitlements.

Boomers learned the hard way.

Most of their parents, the SGens, were focused primarily on Last Wills, not knowing that at their parents’ deaths, probate would be required and managed by a lawyer to acquire their assets. It has cost the Boomers thousands of dollars to settle their parents’ estate. They continuously vow, “I will not allow

this to happen to my children or heirs.”

Have they learned? No, not by a long shot! Eighty-one percent of SGens have or had at the least a Last Will or other estate planning. Commendably, Boomers, unlike their parents, prepare Living Trusts more often than Last Wills in an effort to avoid any occurrence of probate.

Sadly, fewer than 42% of Boomers have any estate planning at all. That is a 39% drop in planning as compared to their parents.

So much for the Boomer’s vow to protect their heirs from exposure to probate lawyers and courts. Boomers are exposing 58% of XGens and Millenials to greater financial impact because so many from these later generations can barely afford to pay their own college debt and living costs.

Unfortunately, if parents don’t do any estate planning that transfers their assets to heirs immediately upon death, the only alternative is to hire a probate lawyer. Consult with an estate planning attorney today.

+ HOMESTYLE

How to Set Up a

Saltwater Aquarium A saltwater aquarium hobbyist’s guide to the proper set up and maintenance of a healthy tank.

By Lou Schiavo, World Wide Corals

I

t starts out as a simple tank of water that will eventually hold aquatic life.

Extra care and patience in the beginning will go a long way toward creating a healthy, problem-free aquarium for years to come.

Choose a Location

Aquariums should be placed away from windows, outside doors, heat vents and air conditioners, as rapid changes in water temperatures are extremely stressful for fish and live corals. The area you choose should be able to support the weight of the aquarium and be in close proximity to electrical outlets. Most saltwater tanks require access to at least four plugs.

Set up the Tank

Rinse dust or debris from inside the tank before setting the stand into place, making sure it’s level. An unbalanced aquarium can Lou Schiavo is co-founder/co-owner of the internationally renowned company World Wide Corals, which was established in 2006. He oversees the company’s daily operations, including aquarium service, trade shows, retail store and the WorldWidecorals.com. Currently, he’s heavily involved with the development of two new WWC retail locations here in Central Florida.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

be extremely hazardous and increases the risk for cracking or leaking.

Once your stand is in place, fill the tank approximately one-third full of water. Carefully dry the bottom edge of the tank and stand then check for leaks. Look for water beading up on the bottom edge or running down the sides of the stand. If it’s leaking, empty it. You can attempt to fix it, but repairing a leaky tank is difficult, with no guarantee of success.

Set up your filter and protein skimmer according to the manufacturer’s directions. Don’t plug them in at this time.

Add Sand and Live Rock

Always rinse live sand in premixed saltwater before placing it into the aquarium. Live rock is made from the aragonite skeletons of long-dead corals or other calcareous organisms. When taken from the ocean, it can be encrusted with coralline algae. The many forms of micro and macroscopic marine life that live on and inside of the rock, which acts as an ideal habitat, give it the name “live rock”.

Finishing Touches

Fill the tank the rest of the way, pouring the water directly into a small bowl first to protect the aqua-scaping. If mixing your own saltwater add the appropriate amount of water conditioner or additive, then the marine salt in small

amounts until you get a specific gravity reading of around 1.020 with a hydrometer. Your goal is a level of 1.020 to 1.025 for fish–only aquariums and 1.023 to 1.025 for fish and live coral reef tanks. It may take up to 24 hours for the specific gravity level to stabilize.

Then place the heater into the tank or filtration area, but don’t plug it in. Clip-on, non-submersible heaters should be placed close to the outflow of the filter. Submersible heaters should be placed close to the inflow of the filter. These placements allow the heated water to be better dispersed throughout the tank. Wait 20 minutes then plug in your heater and protein skimmer and adjust to your target temperature.

Your saltwater system is now set up and running, but don’t rush off to buy livestock just yet. Once your water temperature and specific gravity levels have remained stable for 24-48 hours, a cycling process is necessary. This can take anywhere from four to six weeks.

Once complete, your tank will be ready for fish.

Visit CentralFloridaLifestyle.com for more tips from World Wide Corals.

+ IN THE Kitchen

Celebrating the

Cranberry

By Christie Fogarty Here’s everything you didn’t know that you need to know about this season’s most popular fruit.

By Christie Fogarty

I

t may be the season of all things pumpkin, but don’t forget one of the most important fruits on Thanksgiving: the cranberry!

According to The Cranberry Institute, a not-for-profit organization that works to support the success of cranberry growers and the industry as a whole, the cranberry is a native North American fruit with the highest production coming from Massachusetts, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Oregon and Washington.

Cranberries are grown in low-lying beds known as bogs or marshes and are harvested in the fall months — typically September and October.

While many people believe that cranberries are grown in water, that’s not the case. Water is only introduced into the growing process when it’s time to harvest as well as during the winter months to protect the vines.

There are two ways to harvest cranberries: wet and dry harvest. The Cranberry Marketing Committee describes wet harvesting as a common method in

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

which the bogs are flooded with water.

A harvesting machine is then used to remove the cranberries from the vine, where air chambers within the fruit’s center allow them to float on top of the water, making them easier to collect. A small percentage of cranberries are dry harvested, or picked directly from the vine.

Cranberries aren’t only delicious as a side dish on your holiday dinner table, but they’re also full of nutrients and a great addition to your everyday diet. Their flavanoid and phytonutrient content have both antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits. While many attribute the health benefits of cranberries specifically to the urinary tract, it’s also believed that they have anti-cancer properties and can also improve cardiovascular health.

There are many creative ways to incorporate cranberries into your diet. Due to their high acidity and low sugar content, cranberries work well in both sweet and savory dishes. So try something new with them this holiday season.

Baked Brie with Chipotle Cranberry Sauce Courtesy of The Cranberry Marketing Committee and The Wanderlust Kitchen This sweet and spicy appetizer will be a hit for any dinner party all year-round.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) round brie • 2 cups whole cranberries, rinsed • 1/2 cup water • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 small dried chipotle pepper, deseeded and minced •2 tablespoons honey •Z est from one lemon

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the pre-heated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until soft. Meanwhile, place the cranberries, water, sugar and chipotle pepper in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Turn the heat down to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, until the berries have softened and the sauce is thick.

Top the baked brie with the honey, followed by the cranberry mixture and lemon zest. Serve with an assortment of nuts, bread and sliced apples for dipping.

Source: www.USCranberries.com

+ DID YOU Know?

What You Need to Know About

Diabetes

Learn about the different types of diabetes, the symptoms of each and the treatments that are available.

By J L Thompson

D

iabetes is a medical condition that causes the body to mismanage the level of sugar in the blood, which leads to some serious health problems.

Diabetes Basics

Your body burns sugar for fuel.

Your blood uses insulin, a kind of hormone, to carry the sugar into your body’s cells. When your body can’t make or use insulin properly, the sugar you get from food builds up in your blood instead of going into your cells. This starves your cells of the fuel they need.

Type I Diabetes

Juvenile diabetes, or Type 1 diabetes, is mostly diagnosed in children and sometimes young adults. This kind of diabetes is, in part, genetic.

With this type of diabetes, your body’s immune system malfunctions, attacking the cells that make insulin. This creates an insulin shortage, leaving the cells of your body in a perpetually starved state.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Fortunately, this kind of diabetes can be controlled through diet and exercise. You will need to carefully monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure for the rest of your life, so regular doctor appointments are necessary. You will also need to monitor your blood sugar level on a daily basis. It can easily be done with equipment you can use yourself at home. You might also require regular insulin injections.

Pay close attention to any feelings of thirst or a frequent urge to urinate.

You should also pay close attention to unexplained weight loss or fatigue, excessive hunger and blurred vision.

These can be signs that your insulin levels are bad.

Type II Diabetes

Adult-onset diabetes, or Type II diabetes, most often develops in adulthood, although increasing numbers of children have been developing it too. Being overweight increases your chance of developing this kind of diabetes, as does a lack of exercise

and eating too much junk food. With Type II diabetes your body can’t use its insulin very well. Even though your body produces enough of it, your cells don’t get a lot of benefit from it.

You can completely eliminate the symptoms of Type II diabetes with regular exercise and eating a healthy diet free of junk food. This program of healthy living can completely eliminate the need for insulin injections.

Symptoms include frequent thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, the need to urinate frequently, frequent infections and slow, ineffective healing. Experiencing any of these symptoms is a warning sign that your blood sugar levels are bad.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. Type I diabetes can be managed with the right medications while Type II diabetes can be effectively put into remission with diet and exercise.

Managing your diabetes is something you will be doing for the rest of your life, but with a little discipline and effort, you can feel healthy and fit.

feel healthier #12 in the nation for diabetes care

Managing your diabetes can seem overwhelming. But with the right team behind you, keeping your health in balance becomes a lot easier.

AdventHealth Orlando is home to some of the most innovative diabetes and weight-management treatments available. And, our multidisciplinary team of board-certified specialists is committed to delivering dynamic diabetes education, management and prevention services. It’s trusted care designed to help you feel supported, feel stronger, feel whole.

19-DIABETES-08685

AdventHealthDiabetesInstitute.com

COURTESY OF THE FIRST ACADEMY

The First Academy Champions On and Off the Green

To learn more about The First Academy, attend one of the upcoming Open House events.

This private, Christ-centered, college preparatory school serves students across the Orlando area.

• Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 9 a.m.

• Sunday, Jan. 26 at 2 p.m.

T

RSVP today at thefirstacademy.org

he First Academy golf teams are one of the top-ranked in the country. The girls team won the prestigious Honda Classic High School Invitational then took the district and regional titles by a landslide. Their sights are now on another state championship.

The boys golf team are on par with their own district and regional titles with a state championship also on the horizon.

“We just have a really competitive team,” Senior Captain Taylor Zeng explains. “We’ve known each other for years now because we started off at Junior Golf. I feel like we’ve already built that team dynamic, which is really important, and we are all super close.”

It’s not just the championship golf that TFA families love. It’s the whole Royal package that The First Academy has to offer. TFA provides the strongest balance of accelerated academics and student leadership. Students from preschool to 12th grade are elevated to their highest levels of achievement and have the opportunity to engage with award-winning arts and athletic programs, customized student pathways and inspirational teachers.

Parents choose and remain at TFA because of the safe environment, caring teachers and academic excellence their children receive. “They say it takes a village to raise children and we picked the right village,” says Heather Howell, wife of professional golfer Charles Howell, whose children attend TFA’s Lower School.

With a 100% college acceptance rate, the teachers are certainly doing their part. “My daughter is excited to come to school every single day because she is excited to see her teachers,” says Laura Eitel, TFA Lower School parent. “She knows that her teachers love the Lord and she knows that they love her.”

TFA is proud to serve families in Lake Nona and throughout Central Florida.

“We love The First Academy for so many reasons,” says Dr. and Kim Adamson of Nemours Hospital. “Our girls are receiving a tremendous education in an incredibly caring, Christ-centered setting. We value the personalized attention and loving environment that surrounds the children while they are challenged academically and their interests broadened

through a variety of fine arts and sports.

There is great communication between the teachers and parents — our girls tell us often they couldn’t imagine a better school!”

TFA families are also excited about the school’s brand new Royal bus program, which makes it easy for students to get to and from campus. And as the Royal family grows in the Lake Nona area, so will more transportation opportunities to The First Academy campus.

“We love the TFA bus,” says a TFA parent of a bus rider. “It has been so helpful to our family! The driver is very kind and attentive to the attendance and care of the kids. We are beyond pleased.”

• • • • • • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • • • • • • 22

Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

2667 Bruton Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32805 407.206.8602 TheFirstAcademy.org

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+ BUSINESS Spotlight

Nacré: A Voyage Into Elegance Build your own collection of high-end fashion accessories at this chic, exclusive shop inside the Orlando International Airport and online.

By Lyndsay Fogarty COURTESY OF NACRÉ

W

hen an opportunity to turn a dream into a reality arises, there’s no reason not to take it. A Lake Nona resident and entrepreneur did just that when she opened her fashion, jewelry and accessories store, Nacré, at the Orlando International Airport this year.

Inspired by her mother’s shop in Europe, she wanted to build on that family legacy here at home, so she designed the store from scratch with an ocean theme that honored its Florida roots. It is located pre-security near the airport’s A terminal. Since Nacré means “mother of pearl” in French, soothing blue shades and complementary mother of pearl wall covering provide a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk through the door.

While the store features mostly European brands, such as Christian Lacroix jewelry and handbags, Majorica pearls and Zeades leather products from Monaco, Nacré gives a nod to its name with one very special U.S. brand that is appealing to both travelers and locals alike. Dune Jewelry’s line of necklaces, bracelets, rings and charms is designed with sand and shells from beaches across the state, including Naples, Clearwater, New Smyrna and Key West.

COURTESY OF NACRÉ

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

With a unique selection that features original, colorful styles of jewelry, watches and other accessories for both men and women, Nacré pieces exude elegance without breaking the bank. In-store and online shoppers can find sterling silver, 18k gold plated jewelry, Austrian crystal and high-end leather watches, handbags and wallets. Even more, all items are backed with a manufacturing warranty.

In addition to accessories, Nacré offers one line of high-end perfumes featuring mostly unisex scents.

A fruity, fresh variety is perfect for everyday use while a hypnotizing fragrance with notes of amber, cashmere, rose and wood is best for when the sun goes down.

As the store continues to grow, expansions into Lake Nona, Winter Park, Dr. Phillips and other areas of the community are top of mind. But, for now, shoppers are delighted with their experience and continue to return when traveling through the Orlando International Airport.

Whether you’re a traveler or an online shopper, you can support a local small business while building your collection of high-end fashion accessories.

For more information and to shop online, visit www.NacreOnline.com.

+ HEALTH & Wellness

How to Make

Journaling a Habit Utilize these five tips if you’re ready to become a journaling pro.

By Christie Fogarty

J

ournaling has many health and wellness benefits, from stress management to mindfulness.

Take some time now to incorporate writing into your day-to-day schedule to take full advantage of these benefits in 2020.

• Make it part of your routine. Find 30 minutes in your everyday routine to make time for writing, whether you decide to wake up 30 minutes earlier or you take some personal time later in the evening. In his TED Talk, Matt Cutts, an engineer for Google, discussed a 30-day challenge in which participants come up with a goal, such as writing in a journal each morning, and try it for 30 days. After 30 days, it very well could become a habit.

Do it when your mind is fresh.

• There isn’t a “right time” to write in

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

your journal. You may be a morning person or you may be a night owl, but what’s most important is that you’re writing when you’re most refreshed.

Find a time in the day where you’re relaxed and your mind is clear so that you can properly communicate your feelings in writing. When your mind is free of distractions, you will be able to create the best content.

• Start slow and don’t rush it. Write as little or as much as you want in the beginning so that writing in your journal doesn’t become stressful. Life happens, so if you decide to skip a day, don’t be hard on yourself. You can even try taking your journal with you everywhere you go. That way, you can write whenever you’re feeling inspired. Once you find your flow and it becomes routine, start incorporating goals. Writing should be a stress reliever, not a stress inducer.

•W rite with a purpose. The universe gives back the energy that you project, so it’s important to write with gratitude. However, writing is all about processing feelings, so it’s OK if your topics aren’t always positive. When those topics arise, do your best to turn the negatives into positives so that you find a lesson in every outcome. When you write with gratitude, it can change your day and help you see the positive side of life.

• Don’t be hard on yourself. Journaling can help you process feelings, so don’t be hard on yourself when those feelings come up. Putting those feelings into words that you can read later can help you process your feelings and assist you in working through them.

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+ WINE & Spirits

Sip On Sangria You’ve heard about the health benefits of red wine. Why not add a little fruit and enjoy some sangria?

By Rachel Gramer

I

n Florida, there’s always time to enjoy a glass of sangria in the sun. It’s quick to make and, more importantly, easy to toss into a pitcher and share with others.

Choose Your Wine

The word “sangria” comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” for blood, because the original recipe for the drink had red wine as a base.

Today, both red and white sangria are popular, but red remains the tradition. There has never been an “official” recipe, but since sangria was introduced in the United States at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, the popular choice is Rioja or another red Spanish wine. The success of your sangria begins with a good red wine, but what kind of wine you choose ultimately depends on your preference. A medium-bodied red wine works well, like a Beaujolais or Merlot, but a Shiraz or Cabernet blend will work, too.

If you prefer an even lighter take on the beverage, sangria

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

blanco uses white wine and can be even more refreshing. For a nod to tradition, use a Spanish white, like Rioja Blanca, but any dry white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, will do. If you like your sangria extra sweet, try a dry Reisling, keeping in mind that your final product will also have the added sweetness of sugar, fresh fruit, liqueur and mixers.

Happy Mixing

While simple syrup (sugar dissolved in equal parts water) is a must for any sangria (it mixes better than just granulated sugar), the rest of the recipe is wide open for interpretation. Most sangria recipes call for a few shots of a flavored liqueur, but what flavor of liqueur depends on your choice of red or white wine.

Orange flavor from either Curacao or Cointreau are popular choices for red wine — as are any number of fruity brandies, such as blackberry or apricot. White wine sangria can also be complemented by

the orange flavor of Triple Sec, an apple liqueur or the berry flavors of Chambord or a cranberry liqueur.

If you prefer it’s not too fruity, or if you just want to add some alcoholfree flavor, some recipes also call for cinnamon, brown sugar, honey or even Tabasco.

Perhaps the most fun ingredients for sangria, though, are the fresh fruits that go into the pitcher with the wine and liqueur the night before to soak up the alcohol and flavor the drink. Traditional choices are slices of orange, lemon and lime, and other popular additions include apples, pears, grapes and peaches. While most any fruit will work with red or white wine, fruits with a lighter taste — raspberries, strawberries, kiwis or mangoes — work especially well with sangria blanco.

And to top it off, a little club soda will do the trick to cut the pure alcohol sweetness. If you want to add an extra kick, top off each glass with champagne.

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This local bride and groom shared their dream wedding with family and friends in an intimate ceremony and reception that captured their love story perfectly.

Photography by Joshua and Rachel Best

W

eddings are a beautiful presentation of love that a couple fondly shares with their family and friends. Dr. Gustavo and Beatriz Arvelo recently hosted their daughter’s wedding in a venue that meant the most to their family: their home.

The bride, Ingrid Beatriz Arvelo, and the groom, Jake Thorn, both of whom are studying at Moritz Col-

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

lege of Law in Ohio, chose June 15, 2019 for their wedding day. It’s a date that will be remembered as the beginning of a new life and a new stage of happiness.

Inspired by the home’s American contemporary architecture, the couple hired event planner, Eduardo Perrone, to plan the wedding and decorate the outdoor gardens for the reception. His work resulted in a unique

This rustic table setting, designed by event planner Eduardo Perrone, brings natural elements together giving guests a fresh, classic feel.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

31

space inspired by romanticism and a celebration of life.

When it was time to prepare for her walk down the aisle, the bride put on an elegant cap-sleeved dress with lace accents and a beautiful Spanish mantilla veil. Her bridesmaids wore light blue dresses that complemented the natural scenery that was the backdrop of wedding.

Lisa Stoner coordinated the civil ceremony, which took place in a Windermere chapel. Afterwards, the newlyweds and their 50 guests returned to the backyard gardens of the residence for the reception.

There, transparent acrylic chairs were placed around a communal table anchored by a centerpiece that inspired harmony, elegance and style. Its lush greenery extended along the table, and it was adorned by a majestic cascade of white flowers, roses, hydrangeas and peonies in a dance of beauty and harmony in free form.

Guests of the bride and groom sat around the table, turning the outside of the home into a track in which the bridal party made their entrance. The newlyweds made their grand entrance through a stone staircase and around the outside of the home, giving the bride the opportunity to be seen by everyone and show off her beautiful dress to her guests as she walked down the hall.

The reception area perfectly captured the romantic atmosphere of the event with ornate lace tablecloths, sage

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

green corridors and elegant chandeliers. As a final touch, the printed menus presented a selection of Spanish cuisine and the influence of Latin food made by Unique Catering. Before the evening was over, the couple took their guests back to where it all began, serving wedding cake made by Vargas Cake.

The wedding of Ingrid Beatriz Arvelo and Jake Thorn was a highlight for their families and was truly an event that they will remember fondly for the rest of their lives.

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33

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Home

How To Choose The Right

Roofing Company

Find out all the right questions to ask your roofing company to ensure a positive experience for such a big investment.

By Jordan Edwards, JA Edwards of America

Y

ou can’t drive it. You can’t wear it. A new roof doesn’t seem like much fun. However, protecting and improving your biggest investment is important. Most people only deal with replacing a roof once or twice in a lifetime, so choosing the right company for the job is a big decision.

With an average of 233 sunny days each year, Central Florida homes are susceptible to sun damage, hurricane and storm damage as well as Jordan Edwards has been roofing in the Orlando area for almost 15 years. He is the Official Builder of Winter Park High School and a sponsor of the UCF Knights, Cure Bowl, The C.A.R.E Foundation and many others.

JA Edwards of America is a certified roofing contractor, a certified general contractor that offers roofing, solar panels, gutters, siding and windows. Visit www.JAEofAmerica.com for more information.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

normal wear and tear. When choosing a company to provide your new roof, here are some other things you may find helpful.

Ask if your roofer is licensed, certified and insured to cover the basics. Then, go even further to find out if you will have a dedicated project manager to help guide you through the process. This will ease the burden of stress on you during the project.

Managing a sizeable renovation like your roof requires specialized knowledge and experience. Ask if your potential roofer undergoes annual training and has updated their education when it comes to new building codes, processes and products available.

You may also want to know how many years they have been in business and how much experience they have working with insurance companies.

Don’t let an inexperienced roofing company cost you time and money.

How involved in the community is your roofer? You’re making an investment into your home; a quality roofing company will make an investment into their community as well.

You’re trusting your home to them, so make sure your trust is placed with a company that has community ties.

The final step in selecting the right roofer is do you like them? Were they personable? Were they knowledgeable? Most importantly, can you see yourself being comfortable working with them?

While selecting a roofer may seem like a transactional deal, feeling good about who you are working with is important too. A properly installed roof will protect your home, your family and your investment, so choose wisely.

HOSPITALITY Spotlight +

CFHLA Adopt-A-School Kick Off On Wednesday, Oct. 2, The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association hosted its annual AdoptA-School Kick-Off Luncheon at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld. This luncheon featured a keynote presentation by Glen Vlasic, formerly Area General Manager, Sheraton Vistana Resort.

Celebrating its 18th year, the CFHLA Adopt-A-School program

began with the mission to identify, develop and promote positive community partnerships between every public school in Central Florida and CFHLA member lodging establishments and companies. Over 100 partnerships are anticipated in Orange, Osceola and Seminole County School Districts for the 2019/2020 School Year.

This program is another example of the hospitality industry giving back to Central Florida!

(Above) Keynote Speaker, Glen Vlasic, formerly Area General Manager, Sheraton Vistana Resort offers remarks relating to the value of partnerships with public schools.

(Left) Orange County School Board Member District 1, Angie Gallo; Orange County Superintendent, Dr. Barbara Jenkins; Orange County School Board Member District 4, Pam Gould; and Orange County School Board Chair, Teresa Jacobs celebrate the kick off of the 2019/2020 Adopt-A-School Program.

Rich Maladecki is president and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, the world’s largest regional hotel association (www.CFHLA.org).

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www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

35

+ YOUR Local

Inspiring and empowering the next generation of musicians and production professionals.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

A

spiring musicians, hobbyists and those wishing to learn to play music now have a new place to live out their dreams, the El Camino School of Music, Repair and Technology, which opened right here in Orlando last month.

The main focus at El Camino School is trade-based learning and developing the next generation of touring technicians, but they don’t stop there.

At El Camino School they encourage people of all ages and abilities to be a part of the music community.

They offer music lessons for beginners to accomplished artists and seminars. There are even meet-ups where all are invited and encouraged to hone their craft, network and learn new skills.

One truly special aspect to the school is their music therapy program, which serves autistic and differently abled individuals. The course focuses on community building, wellness and selfempowerment through music. Creating music, moving to music and even listening to music can work wonders for those dealing with cognitive, emotional and even physical conditions.

John Theisen founded El Camino School with the primary objective of creating a true collaboration with the community and the local music industry. A longtime contributor to the Orlando COURTESY OF EL CAMINO SCHOOL OF MUSIC, REPAIR AND TECHNOLOGY

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

music scene, Theisen envisioned a space that would allow students of all ages to create their own path through music.

Located on Edgewater Drive, the facility connects music industry professionals with individuals who are seeking to further their understanding of music by offering a variety of professionally taught courses, guest lectures, seminars and activities. The goal is to educate individuals about how to create music, from guitar circuitry to the inner workings of a guitar amp, before they even strike a string.

“Musicians who understand how it all works are more likely to succeed in their craft,” Theisen says.

El Camino School’s trade-based learning initiatives are helping to develop the next generation of touring technicians, which according to a recent Wall Street Journal Article, are in high demand. The eight-week touring technician program features courses in guitar, amp and pedal building, soldering, signal flow and instrument repair and provides a college alternative for creative people who are interested in hitting the road and making the show possible behind the scenes.

If you love music, want to learn music, or are looking to build a solid foundation for a career in the music industry, then El Camino School is for

you. Its team of industry professionals are committed to helping people of all ages and skill levels to pursue their passion and build a community focused on music. Visit ElCaminoSchool.com for more information.

Amp Building Course - This December!

El Camino School’s two-day amp building course is the perfect gift for musicians and hobbyists!

Create a classic, fully functional amplifier with your bare hands.

During the build you will also learn about the technical aspects of amplifiers, the voice-box of the electric guitar and bass.

Here’s what you can expect: •B uild your own custom, 5-watt tube amp that you take home •L earn basic soldering and wiring •L earn the concepts of sound creation and manipulation to create personalized sound and/ or settings •L earn the technical aspects of the circuits that create the sounds controllable from within the amplifier •L earn to troubleshoot real-world problems with the equipment for technical support

For more information or to register, visit ElCaminoSchool.com or call 407-734-5129.

COURTESY OF EL CAMINO SCHOOL OF MUSIC, REPAIR AND TECHNOLOGY

Create Your Own Path with El Camino School

SOUTHWEST ORLANDO FAMILY MEDICINE Celebrating 30 Years Helping Patients Live Healthier Lives

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www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ YOUR Local

The Most Wonderful

Time of the Year

The holiday spirit is alive and well in the West Orange County business community.

By Stina D’Uva

T

he business community, especially in prosperous times, is willing and able to give to those who need help most. As is the case with individuals, West Orange County businesses are not immune to the charms and spirit of the holiday season, and giving is even more evident at this time. The business community pays it forward and because of some wonderful partnerships, the West Orange Foundation and the West Orange Chamber of Commerce have opportunities for generosity to flourish.

West Orange Foundation Thanksgiving Basket Food Drive

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

For many years now, the chamber and its members have participated in several activities at the onset of the holiday season, with the support of volunteer time, energy and money. One of those activities is in partnership with Orange County. Each year, the county identifies families in need through the Maxey, Lila E. Mitchell and Pine Hills Centers. These families receive Thanksgiving baskets filled with seasonal foods and gift cards to be used at Publix and Walmart, which are trustees of the chamber that give to our community in so many ways.

In 2018, over 100 families were assisted, and the goal for this year is even greater.

The giving doesn’t stop at Thanksgiving. Our members have contributed hundreds of books to children in West Orange through the very popular, 22-year-old Reading Reindeer program. Books for children of all ages are donated at various gathering points, with the chamber lobby being one of those collection sites. Thousands of chil-

dren have been served and delighted through this program.

To continue on with the spirit of giving, the chamber’s ambasAdventHealth sadors enjoy participating in the Winter Garden Christmas parades for the cities of Ocoee and Winter Garden that occur on the first Saturday of every December. Our ambassadors develop an annual float theme and then ride it along the two parade routes. The joy that they receive in tossing candy and beads to the children fills their hearts. It is a tradition they truly look forward to every year. They’ve even won awards throughout the years for their creativity and spirit.

Our current ambassadors, some of the most generous people I have ever met, will also be in full force at the chamber’s Member Celebration Brunch. This holiday-themed event celebrates our members and is a perfect end to a business year. The celebration will be at the new Ocoee Lakeshore Center, the home of Best Fest. More to come on this event next month!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chamber Ambassadors

17 REASONS We Are Thankful

BAY HILL

HORIZON WEST

Winter Park

MAITLAND WATERFORD LAKES

COLLEGE PARK LAKE NONA WINTER SPRINGS

A

s we celebrate 17 years of being Central Florida’s Premier Community Magazine, covering the communities that you, the reader, truly care about, we are excited to share the 17 reasons we are THANKFUL and growing to now include MetroWest, a community in which Lifestyle planted its roots nearly two decades ago. Thank you for welcoming Lifestyle into your homes and continuing to make Central Florida a great place to live, work and play. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

THANK YOU

CENTRAL FLORIDA! WINTER GARDEN

CEO & Publisher

CLERMONT METROWEST OVIEDO OCOEE

WINDERMERE

APOPKA

DR. PHILLIPS

BALDWIN PARK

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Ways to Make Your Holidays Glisten Our team has picked the best ways to celebrate the holiday season as only Central Floridians can do.

Pet Lovers Holiday Craft Fair

Kick off the holiday shopping season with Winter Park Lost Pets on Nov. 30. This event will feature pet stockings, handmade dog jackets, artisan crafts, fine crafted jewelry, digital holiday pet photos and more.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando

It’s 5 o’clock somewhere so spend a day or start a staycation at one of Central Florida’s most laidback properties. Make a splash at the Island H2O Live! Water Park, get a treatment at the spa or dig into a Cheeseburger in Parade in a poolside cabana.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Pop-up Holiday Cocktail Bars

Get in the spirit with two pop-ups bars that will only be around for the holidays. Miracle on Orange will be hosted at The Courtesy in downtown Orlando and Sippin’ Santa will be at Avanti Palms Resort on International Drive. Both will serve festive cocktails perfect for the season.

Monorail Crawl

Disney’s monorail route goes through three upscale hotels, where you can stop to marvel at the holiday displays and grab a snack and drink if you prefer.

Be sure to check out the new “Beauty and the Beast” themed lounge at the Grand Floridian, and remember that you can have a similar adventure on the new Skyliner.

Disney Springs From ho ho ho to hot cocoa. From timeless gifts to quality time. This season, unwrap the joy of Disney Springs®—where you’ll not only discover wonderful times together, but you’ll also find that perfect gift. Choose from some of your favorite brands—including Coach, The LEGO® Store and World of Disney® store.

There’s also incredible dining like Wolfgang Puck® Bar & Grill and Jaleo® by José Andrés. Not to mention live entertainment and plenty of enchanting surprises along the way—including a magical Christmas Tree Trail, Yuletide carolers and quality time with Santa. ‘Tis the Reason to experience Disney Springs® this season. Visit DisneySpringsGiftGuide.com and get inspired for all your holiday shopping at Disney Springs.

Light up UCF Central Florida’s ultimate winter wonderland, Light Up UCF, returns for a 12th season of “Snowy Nights and Sparkling Lights” through Jan. 5 at Addition Financial Arena near the University of Central Florida. Guests can get swept up in holiday cheer in a variety of ways - both old and new. This year’s event will feature new music with more lights, a Holiday Film Festival, fun rides and attractions, and an all-new carousel!

Plus, attendees will have opportunities to enjoy photos with Santa, ice skating and snow. This holiday tradition provides fun for the whole family and is a wonderful activity to show visitors from out of town how Central Florida does the holidays. Visit lightupucf.com to learn more.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

43

Watch a performance of Orlando Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

44

Spend a day at ICON Park

From Dec. 13 to Dec. 23, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts the Orlando Ballet for a beloved holiday tradition: “The Nutcracker.” As the lights dim and the music soars, the magical world of Clara’s dreams will take viewers on a journey through sparkling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and dancing sweets. Thousands of Central Florida families enjoy this production every year to find out if the Nutcracker will triumph over the mischievous Mouse King. Make it part of your family’s tradition, too, with a regular showing or a one-hour family show on Dec. 14 or Dec. 15. Ticket prices start at $24, and there are varying levels of VIP experiences available that include access to watch the company in class on stage before the performance and some exciting extras.

This walkable entertainment destination in the heart of Orlando’s renowned travel district is the perfect place to ride, dine, drink and explore. More than 40 restaurants, bars, shops and attractions are anchored by The Wheel, which towers 400 feet above Orlando. Each rotation takes about 22 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak up Central Florida’s spectacular views. While you’re there, get face to fin with a variety of sea creatures at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, meet your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds Orlando and learn about animals of all sizes at SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology. Fuel your day at The Wheelhouse Market or one of the on-site restaurants, shop at a number of small boutiques or relax on the lawn in the middle of it all. Free parking is available in a multi-level garage.

Participate in an event with The Celebration Foundation

Discover and explore at Orlando Science Center

Founded in 1996, The Celebration Foundation works to build a better community through the arts, culture and education. This December, celebrate the season with a series of family friendly events. The Holiday Home Tour & Winter Wonderland event features festive décor presented by residents of the Celebration community. On Dec. 7 and Dec. 8, attendees are invited to stop at each home and admire the exterior and interior decorations in a self-guided tour that takes approximately two hours. A VIP Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 6 offers a preview of the trees and tablescapes that can be expected at the Winter Wonderland stop of the tour, along with cocktails, appetizers and dancing.

Additionally, the Brass Band of Central Florida will take the stage in the first performance of the Celebration Foundation Concert Series on Dec. 14.

For more than 60 years, this award-winning, hands-on museum has brought science to life for residents of Central Florida as well as visitors from around the world. With four floors of interactive exhibit halls, labs and workshops, theaters, an observatory and experiences that change with the seasons, there is always something exciting for visitors to see and do at Orlando Science Center. OSC reaches approximately 153,000 students and educators each year through its STEM Discovery Center educational programs, both onsite at the Science Center and offsite at schools and community organizations. Whether you visit when school is out, when your family is visiting for the holidays or at any point throughout the year, the OSC experience will be out of this world.

Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Wonderful views

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Dancers: Boris Ceballos (Colombia), Kate-Lynn Robichaux (USA) Photography by Michael Cairns 2019

SEASONS GREETINGS FROM ICON PARK! Join us this holiday season for activities the whole family will enjoy. Take advantage of magical offerings including photos with Santa on the Pearl Express Train plus year round savings with our Florida Resident Offers.

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01.18

Michael Andrew and The Atomic Big Band

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Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras

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Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Balsam Range – IBMA award-winning bluegrass band

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www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

45

Stetson Mansion

At Stetson Mansion’s 9th Annual Christmas Spectacular, 10 rooms in the beautiful Victorian home will feature elaborate decorations and 24 nativities from around the world.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms

In addition to 2 million holiday lights and acres of decorations, the hotel hosts a variety of holiday events, including the Cirque Dreams Unwrapped Stage Show, Secret Santa Scavenger Hunt, ICE featuring The Polar Express and so much more.

Sanford’s Holiday Home Tour

On Dec. 7, the Sanford Historic Trust will kick off the holiday season by opening the doors of several featured historic homes for a once-peryear tour. Not only will attendees get to marvel at the architecture but also at the holiday décor.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

Through Dec. 31 SeaWorld will be transformed into a winter wonderland complete with holiday cheer and over 3 million twinkling lights. Enjoy seasonal shows like O’Wondrous Night and Winter Wonderland on Ice, watch the all-new Sesame Street Christmas Parade and meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reineer and his friends.

Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Each night through Dec. 30, a celebrity narrator will tell the Christmas story set to the sounds of a choir singing carols at the America Pavilion in Epcot. While you’re there, explore the holiday traditions of the 11 World Showcase nations by watching live musical performances and savoring authentic food and beverage items.

Holidays at Universal Orlando

This resort-wide celebration includes the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show at Islands of Adventure as well as special performances by Mannheim Steamroller and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios.

RDV Sportsplex Snow Fest

This annual winter celebration will take place from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 14. Expect ice skating, real snow, kids’ snow slide, bounce houses, face painting curling and a ton of family fun.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Cure Bowl

On Dec. 21, teams from the American Athletic Conference and Sun Belt Conference will take the field at Exploria Stadium for this annual college bowl game that raises funds for breast cancer research.

The Heart of Christmas at The Holy Land Experience This Broadway-style production follows a pair of families from two very different times as they take a journey of hope, love and sacrifice and search for the true spirit of the Christmas season. The annual nativity scene will also return to the park.

Boxi Park

Lake Nona’s hottest new concept is the place to be for food and entertainment if you’re hosting family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy live music, fun events and many unique restaurant offerings.

Downtown Winter Garden

The City of Winter Garden is hosting the 32nd Annual Light Up Winter Garden on Dec. 6 to kick off the holidays, but the downtown area is also a great place to entertain all season long. Shop small for gifts at local boutiques, grab a meal at a local restaurant or spend the day at Plant Street Market.

Winter on the Avenue

Winter Park will also host its annual holiday event on Dec. 6. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, holiday choirs, carolers and a visit from Santa. Explore all that Park Avenue has to offer while you’re there.

Bok Tower Gardens

Just a short drive from Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens offers artistic, cultural and spiritual experiences for visitors through events and tours.

The Pinewood Estate will also be transformed for the holidays so visitors can enjoy a Holiday Home Tour, carillon conerts and festive foliage.

Holidays at Rosen Hotels & Resorts

From holiday buffets to poolside ice carvings, the Rosen Hotels & Resorts properties will be decked out for the holiday season. Go on an I-Drive crawl to view the décor and participate in all of the fun events that will be offered.

Unmatched facilities.

Unrivaled programs.

Unlimited fun.

LAKE NONA For more information on programs,visit //reserve.ustanationalcampus.com Š 2019 USTA. All rights reserved.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Celebrate the Season

at MetroWest’s 8th Annual WinterFest Thousands of attendees are expected to attend this free community event on Dec. 21, which will begin with Santa arriving by parachute.

F

or the eighth year in a row, MetroWest Master Association (MWMA) will welcome thousands of attendees to the annual WinterFest. It will be held this year on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the MetroWest Golf Club.

“WinterFest is an important community event to bring the MetroWest neighborhood together for an afternoon of holiday fun and

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

camaraderie,” says Julie Sanchez, MWMA General Manager. “We’ve designed WinterFest so that families with young children can enjoy a free, holiday-themed event.”

WinterFest 2019 will begin with Santa (and, it is hoped, Buzz Lightyear) parachuting in, much to the delight of the children (and many adults) in attendance. It is a free, family friendly event with fun for all ages.

ABOUT METROWEST This year’s entertainment will include:

• T he hit movie “Toy Story 4” shown on a big screen on the MetroWest Golf Club green • L ive Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie characters • F ree photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus • H oliday-themed performances by MetroWest Elementary School and Westpointe Elementary School • A snow slide, merry-go-round, bungie bouncer, ballistic swing carnival ride and skating rink • F ace painters and pony rides • F ood Truck Zone • V endors • G iant holiday tree with a “Toy Story” theme WinterFest will also feature a check presentation from MWMA to MetroWest Elementary School and Westpointe Elementary School.

MetroWest WinterFest 2019 benefits Edgewood Children’s Ranch, a nonprofit, residential program that helps boys and girls ages 6-17 address and overcome behavioral issues in a positive, safe environment. Every year, MetroWest communities and businesses compete in the MetroWest WinterFest Charity Challenge by collecting dry goods, sporting equipment, gift cards and more for the ranch.

“Edgewood Children’s Ranch is part of our MetroWest community and offers much-needed support for children with behavioral challenges. It’s our honor to support the ranch and its exemplary residential program,” Sanchez says.

Attendees who plan to watch “Toy Story 4” at the end of the WinterFest event should bring blankets to sit on. Pets and coolers are not allowed.

WinterFest will be held rain or shine, except in the case of extreme weather. For more information, visit www.metrowestcommunity.com or like MWMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ MetroWestMasterAssociation.

MetroWest, developed in 1986, is one of Orlando’s first master-planned communities and features awardwinning landscaping and MetroWest Golf Club, as well as high-performing public schools, Valencia College campus and convenient access to both I-4 and 408 from the west side of Orlando. MetroWest offers a community lifestyle with neighborhood businesses and outdoor recreation options. The diverse community is complemented by a range of living options, from single-family homes of all sizes to apartments and condominiums. For more information, please visit www.MetroWestCommunity.com.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Faith, Family and

Transformation With the help of the local community, Edgewood Children’s Ranch provides support and hope for at-risk youth and their families.

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or more than 50 an agreement to work within years, Edgewood the ranch’s guidelines. Children Children’s Ranch stay at the ranch for two years has rehabilitated youth-at-risk on average and are evaluated WHAT: 37th Annual Edgewood and has worked closely with at the end of each school year to Children’s Ranch Country Roundtheir families, returning children determine if they should return to Up Dinner & Auction to their homes and society the program. Parents must also WHEN: Nov. 22 at 6 p.m. as healthy, functioning young participate in the program through Location: Gaylord Palms Resort & people. parenting classes and attending Convention Center Located on more than weekly chapel.

PRICING: Tickets are required 100 acres across the lake Children live full time at seats, tables and sponsorships are from MetroWest Golf Club, the the ranch in cottages and available nonprofit, residential program attend the accredited on-site helps boys and girls ages school. The school maintains For more information, contact 7-17 address and overcome a ratio of one teacher for the Edgewood Children’s Ranch behavioral issues in a positive, every eight to 10 students.

Development Office at safe environment. Today, the The children have visitation 407-578-0506. ranch is able to accommodate with their parents each 60 students at a time. Yet, the Sunday afternoon, go home methods and goals are the same on designated weekends as in 1966: structure, a loving home environment, throughout the school year, and have holidays academic remediation, behavioral training and a safety and summer break at home. net for their troubled lives, along with love and prayer.

Students are accepted on the basis of need and There may be many factors involved when a the desire to participate rather than the ability to pay. family turns to Edgewood Children’s Ranch for help: The ranch asks that families pay toward the monthly behavioral/disruptive issues either at home, school tuition, but most families are unable to afford the full or both; behind in school; or an ADD, ADHD, ODD or amount. As a result, the ranch reaches out to the local OCD diagnosis. Many times, the ranch staff sees a child community for support and holds several fundraisers acting out as a result of the breakdown of the family throughout the year. Funding for Edgewood Children’s unit, either through divorce, loss of a parent or the child Ranch comes from community support in the form of being raised by another family member, adoption and donations, grants and in-kind gifts. The ranch does not other contributing factors. take state or federal funding.

The Edgewood Children’s Ranch program is Find out more about Edgewood Children’s voluntary, and the parent and child are asked to reach Ranch at edgewoodranch.com.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Save the Date!

24 Ways

to Stay Safe for the Holidays MetroWest Public Safety offers tips for keeping your home and family safe this holiday season.

W

ith the holiday season just around the corner, MetroWest Public Safety would like to remind the community of some helpful tips to help keep you safe, both at home and while you’re doing your holiday shopping.

Store Shopping • M ake a mental note of where you park your car or put a note in your cell phone.

• B e alert to your surroundings and have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle.

• B ring a friend! Shop in pairs when possible.

• D on’t buy more than you can carry.

• S ave all receipts to help verify purchases.

• K eep credit cards out of view of others so they can’t take pictures of them and hide your pin number.

• A dvise security officers if you observe unattended bags.

• W ear purses in cross body fashion and close to your body.

Keep your purse snapped or zipped closed.

• L ock all purchases in trunk to keep out of view.

• W hen shopping with children, designate a meeting place in case you get separated. Let them know to seek assistance from store employees or a person in uniform.

Online Shopping • U pdate the security software on your computer and regularly change your passwords.

• U se secure, well-known websites. Look for a locked padlock icon at bottom for PC or in URL box on MAC. Look for “https” in URL address.

• S hop with companies that you know and trust.

Google company names to obtain background information on unfamiliar sites.

• B e careful of bargains or deals from unfamiliar companies.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Around the Home • A s you unpack your holiday decorations, check them for any damage. If you find damaged sockets, loose wires or bad connections, throw the decorations away.

• D on’t overload electrical outlets. Overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires are common causes of holiday fires.

• N ever connect more than three strings of incandescent lights. More than three strands may not only blow a fuse, but can also cause a fire.

• K eep your Christmas tree fresh by watering it daily. A dry tree is a serious fire hazard.

• S witch to battery-operated candles. Candles start almost half of home decoration fires and battery-operated alternatives are plentiful and attractive.

• K eep combustible items, including decorations, at least three feet from heat sources (fireplace, space heater, etc.).

• P rotect electric cords from damage. Cords should never be pinched by furniture, forced into small spaces such as doors and windows, placed under rugs, located near heat sources, or attached by nails or staples.

• C heck decorations for certification label. Decorations not bearing a label from an independent testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), or Intertek (ETL) have not been tested for safety and could be hazardous.

• D on’t leave the kitchen when something is cooking. Unattended cooking equipment can lead to a home cooking fire.

• W hen you’re leaving the house or going to bed, turn off, unplug and extinguish all decorations, especially candles (if you haven’t switched to battery-operated candles).

Have a safe holiday season! www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ MONEY Matters

How to Avoid Overspending

This Holiday Season

Planning for the holiday season is not hard but will take a bit of discipline. Use these tips to get started.

By beconrad

I

f the excitement of the holiday season usually gives way to piles of post-holiday bills and debt, you might want to change the way you do things this year. With so much emphasis on shopping and spending, it is easy to go over your budget and regret it later.

Doing some advance planning now can benefit you later. Here’s how.

Set a Budget

No matter how many people are on your gift list, your first step is to set a budget. Sit down with a pen and a piece of paper and make a list of everyone you want to buy gifts for. Set a realistic gift budget for each person then add it all up.

Pull Out the Cash Now

Once you have established a total budget for all your holiday spending, head to the bank and pull the cash out now. If you don’t have enough cash on hand to cover your holiday spending, you can’t afford all the gifts you have identified.

After you’ve pulled the cash out of your account, separate it into envelopes according to amount. Label each envelope with the name of the recipient and keep the cash in a safe place like a wall safe or fireproof box.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

Check Out the Weekly Ads

Retailers pull out all the stops and slash prices when the holiday season rolls around, which can help your cash stretch further. Watch for bargains for the gifts that are on your list. When you find one, grab your envelope and head to the store.

Check each recipient off your list as you go. After the gifts are bought and paid for, scratch that person off your list and move on to the next one. Continue your savvy shopping and money-saving ways until your gift list is complete.

If you managed to be an extra good shopper this year, reward yourself by depositing the money you saved back into your bank account. Then use it to get a head start on next year or treat yourself to something special.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ SNAPSHOTS On the Town

Camp Amazon On Sept. 27, Amazon hosted Camp Amazon: Gold Edition at its Orlando fulfillment center for patients of Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital.

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1. Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children cancer patients building Vex robots with volunteers during Camp Amazon at the Orlando fulfillment center.

2. A mazon Orlando fulfillment center presents a $30,000 check to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children for cancer research. Left to Right: Assistant Child Life Manager Jeanine Clapsaddle, Orlando General Manager Kirc Savage, Orlando Health Foundation Manager Stephen Dinon.

2

3

Rosen YMCA Aquatic Center Dedication

National Night Out MetroWest celebrated National Night Out on Oct. 1 at Veranda Park, and a large crowd turned out to enjoy this evening dedicated making the neighborhood safer by strengthening community bonds.

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3. L to R: MetroWest Public Safety Officer Lloyd Davis, MWPS Officer Leo Elder, City Commissioner Samuel Ings, and MWPS Sergeant Rafiel Corbitt.

Delivering Hope Pajama Party 4-5. C ity Furniture teamed up with Orlando City Soccer Club on Oct. 4 to surprise 100 underprivileged children with new twin-size beds and bedding at a pajama party held at Exploria Stadium.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

5

On Oct. 8, the Rosen YMCA Aquatic Center hosted a renovation dedication celebration that recognized five donors who have helped the aquatic center serve Central Florida.

6. H arris Rosen, president and COO of Rosen Hotels and Resorts as well as a long-time aquatic center supporter, takes the stage.

7. The newly renovated Lochinvar Teaching Pool was made possible by Rosen, SeaWorld Orlando and Lochinvar. L to R: Lucky Meisenheimer, Harris Rosen, Rich Murphy, Tommy Olsen, Rich Horner, Doug Bolasevich, Marcee Loy, Dan Sheko, Mark Lutz, Jack Oren, Perry Walker, Dan Wilcox and Rowdy Gaines.

7

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+ CALENDAR of Events November 7, 14, 21 Burgers & Bourbon

6-9 p.m.

The Alfond Inn 300 E. New England Ave. Winter Park, FL 32789 407.326.2623 TheAlfondInn.com In the Hamilton’s Kitchen lounge, enjoy burgers, toppings and 15% off all bourbons, scotch and whiskey.

Complimentary valet parking is available.

November 10 A Taste of Dr. Phillips

1-4 p.m.

Dellagio Orlando 7958 Via Dellagio Way Orlando, FL 32819 $75 general admission, $95 VIP entry ATasteOfDrPhillips.com Admission to the event is all-inclusive and includes food, wine, and beer from over 25 of Orlando best restaurants.

There will also be a silent auction. Proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips Foundation.

November 12-17 Escape to Margaritaville Show times vary Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave. Orlando, FL 32801 Ticket prices vary DrPhillipsCenter.org This hilarious, heartwarming musical includes some of Jimmy Buffet’s best songs along with some originals to bring the spirit of Margaritaville to the stage.

November 16 Praise Wave

1-5 p.m.

SeaWorld Orlando 7007 Sea World Dr. Orlando, FL 32821 Included in regular theme park admission 407.545.5550 SeaWorld.com Guests can celebrate Christian fellowship and fun with live music by Natalie Grant at the Nautilus Theater as well as enjoy the park’s thrilling rides, shows and attractions.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

November 17 Inside the Score: Symphonie Fantastique

November 16 St. Luke’s Concert Series - UCF Symphony 7 p.m.

St. Luke’s Lutheran Church 2021 W. State Road 426 Oviedo, FL 32765 Free admission 407.365.3408 SLLCS.org Now in its 25th year, this concert series features some of the best musical ensembles in Central Florida.

November 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 Mannheim Steamroller

Show times vary Universal Studios 6000 Universal Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32819 Included in regular theme park admission 407.363.8000 UniversalOrlando.com The best-selling holiday artist of all time will perform some of their greatest hits live on select nights.

November 16-24 Festival of Trees

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Orlando Museum of Art 2416 N. Mills Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 $7-$15 407.896.4231 OMArt.org Now in its 33rd year, this year’s Festival of Trees event is themed “Merry and Bright” and will feature a wonderland of designer Christmas trees of all sizes, holiday vignettes, custom wreaths and table decor, a gingerbread village, tabletop displays and more. Each piece is designed by Orlando’s finest designers and is available for purchase.

3 p.m.

Bob Carr Theater 401 W. Livingston St. Orlando, FL 32801 Tickets start at $27 407.770.0071 OrlandoPhil.org In this two-part concert event, Music Director Eric Jacobsen will spend the first half exploring the musical ideas and effects within the score. The second half culminates in a full performance of Symphonie Fantastique by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra.

November 22 A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas

7:30 p.m.

Garden Theatre 160 W. Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787 $25-$37 407.877.4736 GardenTheatre.org This spirited version of the classic tale puts the ghostly qualities of Charles Dickens’ story of redemption center stage. Show runs through Dec. 22.

November 24 AdventHealth Golden Gala XXXIX

7-10 p.m.

Disney’s Coronado Springs 1000 Buena Vista Dr. Orlando, FL 34747 $500 per person 407.303.9586 AdventHealth.com Enjoy an evening of multiaward-winning entertainment, an extravagant three-course meal, live as well as live and silent auctions. Proceeds will help create AdventHealth’s first Vascular Center of Excellence to service pediatric and adult patients.

November 23 Pumpkin Bouquet Workshop

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 $15-$20 407.246.2620 LeuGardens.org Instructor Joe Yakovetic will teach participants techniques on pumpkin selection, preparation, carving, decorating and preservation to create a bouquet made out of a pumpkin for your Thanksgiving centerpiece.

November 24 7th Annual Holiday Family Celebration

3:30 p.m.

Orlando Repertory Theatre 1001 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL 32803 Ticket prices vary 407.896.7365 OrlandoRep.com Enjoy holiday treats, an exclusive multi-item chance drawing, photos with Santa and a private performance of “Miracle in Bedford Falls the Musical,” based on “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

CALENDAR of Events + Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

November 28 MetroWest Food Truck Connection

5:30-9 p.m.

Veranda Park 2295 S. Hiawassee Rd. Orlando, FL 32825 Free admission 407.601.5995 Enjoy some of the best and most exciting food trucks in the Orlando area, presented in conjunction with Food Truck Crazy.

November 29

9 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Epcot Included in regular theme park admission 407.939.5277 DisneyWorld.Disney.Go.com Learn about the holiday traditions of the 11 World Showcase nations through live musical productions, seasonal food and beverage specialties, Candlelight Processional and more. This event runs through Dec. 30.

November 30 Pet Lovers Craft Fair

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Wagging Willows 3756 Howell Branch Rd. Winter Park, FL 32792 WinterParkLostPets.com Support local businesses at this pet-friendly event that features pet Christmas stockings, handmade dog jackets, artisan crafts, pawsome holiday gifts, fine crafted jewelry and digital holiday pet photos.

Freebies, raffles and more will be available.

AROUND THE CORNER December 1 Holiday Makers Market

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Pines of Windermere 3409 Maguire Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 Free admission HolidayMakersMarket.com Jump start your holiday shopping, meet local artists and purchase a one-of-a-kind creation. This event will feature artists, food trucks, holiday music, workshops and more.

December 6 67th Annual “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade 9 a.m.

Winter Park’s Park Avenue Free admission 407.644.8281 CityOfWinterPark.org Hosted by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, Central Florida’s longest-running Christmas parade features more than 100 bands, dance troupes, floats, local dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march down historic Park Avenue.

December 6 32nd Annual Light Up Winter Garden

6-9 p.m.

Downtown Winter Garden - Plant Street Free admission 407.656.4111 CWGDN.com Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, shopping, children’s activities and more at this festive annual event that is hosted by the City of Winter Garden.

December 7-8 Holiday Home Tour & Winter Wonderland

3-9 p.m. on Saturday 1-5 p.m. on Sunday Celebration Town Hall $10-$50 407.566.1234 CelebrationFoundation.org Resides of the Celebration community decorate the exterior and interior of their home for the holidays and event attendees drive to each home and are welcome to go inside.

The tour is self-guided and takes approximately two hours. Homes close promptly at the stated closing time.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

57

+ HOW YOU CAN Help

The Legacy of

Nehrling Gardens Discover the background of this historic local property and learn about what it currently offers to the community.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

I

n the tiny town of Gotha, a twostory wooden house from the 1800s has quite the story to tell.

The former home of famed horticulturist, Henry Nehrling, the property was the site of Palm Cottage Gardens, which he established as a place where he could experiment with tropical and subtropical plants year-round.

One of Florida’s earliest botanical gardens, Dr. Nehrling tested over 3,000 new and rare plants for the Bureau of Plant Industry, now known as the USDA, on the grounds of Palm Cottage Gardens. Over 300 of those plants became essential to Florida’s ornamental horticulture, including caladiums, palms, bamboos, magnolias, amaryllis, Indian Hawthorne and crinum lilies.

By the early 1900s, Palm Cottage Gardens had become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, new Florida settlers and tourists, including some prominent people of the era.

Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Edison and Dr. David Fairchild are some of 58

Central Florida Lifestyle | November 2019

the most recognized names who were also fans of Nehrling’s work.

Now known as Nehrling Gardens, the property is owned and operated by the Henry Nehrling Society, a nonprofit that was established in 1999 to save it. In 2000, the property was listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, and the group fulfilled its mission of purchasing it in 2009. They have been working since then to preserve the home and gardens for future generations.

Only six acres of the more than 40 acres that Nehrling originally purchased remain today. It includes specimens of the original 100-year-old tree canopy, many of Nehrling’s plantings as well as the original home.

Nehrling Gardens currently provides tours, service learning projects and educational workshops.

The property is now a beloved community resource and education center focused on historic preservation, horticultural education and environmental conservation.

How You Can Help 1. M ake a Donation: Tax-deductible donations help to maintain and restore the historic home and gardens as well as provide tours, programs and other resources.

2. Volunteer

Your Time: Individuals and groups are invited to volunteer in the gardens, on home-related projects or in an administration role.

3. A ttend an Event: You can support Nehrling Gardens and have fun doing it by attending fundraisers and events throughout the year. Next up is the Holiday Amaryllis Festival from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 14.

For more information, visit www.NehrlingGardens.org.

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