The Local: Winter Garden—October 2021

Cats & Dogs

A Slice of Haven

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Shake paws with the city’s finest four-legged friends

WINTER GARDEN O C TO BER 2 02 1

Natural Instincts A look at some locals who feel the call of the wild.

Including Samantha Robinson (right), and her Silkie chickens

Soul Haven Ranch unlocks the healing magic of horses

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Thank you to all the locals who contributed, read, commented, liked, and shared. Such a warm welcome from our community means the world to us.

Our local advertisers fund this gift to our community. So if you enjoy it, we hope you will thank them with your support.

FEATURES

Natural Instincts

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Life is abundant here in the Garden. And locals hear the call of the wild in sometimes unexpected ways.

R H E YA TAN N ER

Reigning Cats & Dogs

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Boy, we sure do love our pets. And so do these local pet professionals.

R H E YA TAN N ER

A Slice of Haven

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Susan Nastasi heals through horses at Soul Haven Ranch.

MAR K McWAT ER S

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WI N TE R G AR DE N

FROM TOP: Amy Stotler with her cows Queeda (left) and Jaycee (right); Michael Wright, aka the Poop Bandit, with his son, Luke, and the family dog, Wallace; Susan Nastasi and her mini horses.

Divorce, Paternity, Child Support, Modification and other family-related matters

Allison E.M. Budnik,Attorney 161 S. Boyd St., Suite 100, Winter Garden 407-499-2082 / WGfamilylawfirm.com

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The Lo’ Down

The Editor encounters the City’s critters.

12 Garden Variety

NEWS, NOTABLES, AND NEIGHBORS IN THE KNOW

12 Lake Apopka recovery 13 Pet-friendly senior care 13 Think Pink and Ride 14 Boss Dog Props 14 Winter Park Honey 14 WG History and Music 16 Charity: Polka Dogz 17 Yappy Hour at Pammy’s

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18 Tails to Tell

Lady Blue spreads her wings and shares her story.

40 Homefront

The heart behind downtown’s most haunted Halloween house.

42 Oh, Well!

WI N TE R G AR DE N

HEALTH, NUTRITION, AND FITNESS FROM AREA EXPERTS

Tips for neck pain The benefits of Kombucha How to run without running

44 Eats + Drinks

44 Green Garden and hot topics at Thai Blossom 46 Hair of the Dog hangover treatments

48 Near + Afar

The Budnik family’s visit to Yellowstone was the trip of two lifetimes.

50 Rhetoric

MUSINGS ON LIFE AS A LOCAL

Confessions of a modern dog mom

ON THE COVER

Resident “Chicken Lady” Samantha Robinson keeps quite the coop: four silkie chickens in her backyard.

F R E D LO PE Z

Home Insurance?

Call Your BFF. (Bryan Fifer First)

Bryan Fifer, Agent More homeowners choose State Farm® as their home insurance company over any other insurer. To find out why, ask your local “bestie.”

16106 Marsh Road, Suite 104, Winter Garden 407-614-2622 • bryanfifer.com State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX 1706446

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The Lo’Down

One standing joke

in our house is that we are living in an endless Nat Geo special. Aside from the animalistic behaviors of my housemates (a teenager who grunts in response, a tween who waves madly while playing video games, and a husband who howls during MSU games), there are critters in these-here hills. You’ve got your lizards, you’ve got your snakes, and you’ve got all kinds of bird from cranes to hawks to cardinals. We even have the occasional fish on the sidewalk as the aforementioned hawk accidentally drops its prey.

Drive by any retention pond—particularly those close to Lake Apopka—and you’ll very likely see the telltale bumps that belong to a gator. One time I took a path around one of these ponds, listening to a playlist and rocking along, to look down and see massive gator just five feet away. I admired him as I began my sprint training.

Living in Winter Garden has given me more of an appreciation for creatures big and small, but I have to say my favorites still have fur. Yes, there are the squirrels dashing through the trees. Yes, there are ferrets, hamsters and guinea pigs that are the pets of friends and neighbors. Yes, there are cats and kittens aplenty (I love them but my allergies don’t). But me, I identify as a dog person.

I am not allowed to call my two dogs “fur babies” anymore, or else my son will start referring to himself as a “skin puppy.” But my dogs are my babies. They are spoiled, have poor manners, and cause me to spend a lot of money and time on them, but they make me so happy, so effortlessly. Even when I sleep like a Tetris block around them, even when they need to go outside during a critical phone call or chore moment, even when I step on a random toy that hurts like a LEGO. All I do is look at them and my little shadows wag their tails in joy. The feeling is mutual.

No matter your preference, skin, scales, feathers, or fur, you are never completely alone in the wilds of Winter Garden. And that extra heartbeat can be pretty amazing.

Enjoy your own Nat-Geo moments.

Happy Reading,

Nicole Soulsby, Editor

Something to add?

Send your ideas and images to thelocalwg@emagency.com

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Editor’s Endorsement: Abbott’s Frozen Custard As a native of Rochester, I’m a sucker for frozen custard. Now my hometown favorite is in Winter Garden! Get a cone and a six-pack of Zweigle’s!

WI N TE R G AR DE N

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Our first-class customer service helps you get just the right glasses for your prescription.”

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THE ADVISORY BOARD

WINTER GARDEN

The purpose of the board is to guide our efforts to make The Local as reflective of our area as possible.

Its members are leaders who have roots, connections, expertise, and interest in our community and have volunteered their considerable time and talent. .

Elisa SpencerKaplan Managing

Director of the historic Garden Theatre. After more than 15 years leading professional theaters in NYC and around the country, she relocated to Winter Garden last year and loves exploring this special community with her husband, Broadway composer Russ Kaplan, and 8-year-old daughter Emilia.

Dr. Kim Dawson

Healthcare entrepreneur and owner of Pearle Vision in Ocoee. Kim has been passionate about health and wellness for over 20 years. She received her doctorate in Health Science at MUSC in South Carolina. Kim has lived in Winter Garden for 10 years and is inspired daily by her two children, Symone and Desiree. In her free time, Kim likes to cook, travel, and read novels.

Ralph Disciullo

Branch Manager with American Financial Network, one of the largest residential mortgage lenders in the US. Prior to the mortgage industry Ralph played a key role in the startup of several businesses. Originally from Emerson, NJ, Ralph attended USF in Tampa and now resides in Winter Garden with his wife of 16 years, Sandi, and their two daughters Daniella and Avery.

Becca Lanterman

Owner of Winter Garden Senior Home Care.

Becca is a second-generation Winter Garden resident, and her local roots run deep. She is the true embodiment of joy, and has never met a stranger. Becca loves living the “bubble life,” where her golf cart is her primary mode of transportation. She has dedicated her life to tending to the special needs of our local senior adults.

October 2021 Vol. 1 No. 2 Jamie Ezra Mark Publisher Nicole Soulsby Editor Rheya Tanner Art Director Josh Clark Designer Wendy Mak Designer Mark McWaters Writer Tarin Scarbrough Writer Fred Lopez Chief Photographer Caleb Jensen Web Garrett Reardon Digital CONTRIBUTORS

Adam Ashton, Ally Budnik, Breanne D’Amato, Connor Kelley ADVERTISING

Jamie Mark, Publisher jamie@emagency.com Find us online @thelocalwg

Tracey Forrester

Realtor with Xcellence Realty, Inc. and Independent Associate with LegalShield. She has been in the Horizon West area since 2007.

She is cofounder of Horizon West Professionals and a founding member of the Rotary Club of Horizon West Chapter. Tracey believes in building lasting relationships and being an integral part of the community. She now lives, works, and plays in Horizon West with her beautiful teenage girls, Averie and Bryce.

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Bryan Fifer

Local agent with State Farm Insurance.

Bryan is a Central Florida native, Founding President of the Rotary Club of Horizon West, Horizon West Who’s Who Award Winner, and Team Captain for All-Pro Dad. He is married to his beautiful wife Angie and they have two wonderful children.

Bryan is highly invested in making Horizon West the best place to work, live, and play.

WI N TE R G AR DE N

Angie Layfield NHA/CDAL

Executive Director at The Blake at Hamlin, a senior living and memory care community in Hamlin Town Center.

Angie has been in the senior housing industry for over 20 years and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and insight to our Horizon West seniors and their families.

Though originally from Maryland, she has called Horizon West home since 2016. Angie and her family reside in Village F’s Watermark.

Tamara Zotti

Tamara is a Charleston, SC, native who has lived here for eight years. After seven years as a teacher assistant at Windermere Preparatory School, she now enjoys local life with her husband of 17 years, Frank, and her two children, Nicholas and Samantha. Tamara believes in the value of community involvement and always tries to give back however she can.

Pam Thomas Owner of Pammie’s Sammies, a “thoughtfully sourced, tastefully adventurous” restaurant in the heart of downtown. She is a passionate foodie with a degree in Wine, Spirits, and Beverage Management at the International Culinary School in Tampa. Pam is a staple of the Central Florida community, having operated in Universal Orlando, Dr. Phillips, and now Winter Garden.

Find us IRL Winter Garden Heritage Museum West Orange Public Library Main Street Market Axum Coffee Writer’s Block Bookstore The French Cafe Pammie’s Sammies Contact us to request a rack.

A PU BLICATION OF

407-573-6061 • emagency.com @EMagencyinc PRO U D M EM BER S OF

The Local Volume 1 Issue 2 ©2021 Em Agency. All rights reserved. Published monthly. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Em Agency. Reader submissions have been edited for length or clarity. Advertising of products does not imply endorsement. Em Agency can not be held liable for the business practices of these companies.

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NEWS, NOTES + NEIGHBORS WHO KNOW

Back to Life

Lake Apopka is on its way to being a sportfishing destination as it was 90 years ago.

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y the 1970s, lake bed farming and lax environmental protections led Lake Apopka to be named Florida’s most polluted lake—a far fall from its ’30s-era fame, when it was considered one of the best sportfishing destinations in the country. But finally, thanks to

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environmental legislation and the efforts of organizations like Florida Fish and Wildlife (FFW) and Friends of Lake Apopka, the lake has been steadily returning to its former glory.

“Around 40% of Lake Apopka has catch rates comparable with the rest of the chain,” says Scott Bisping, Fish-

eries Resource Biologist for the Harris Chain of Lakes with FFW. “Where there’s good habitat again, there are good numbers of fish. It won’t happen overnight, but our hope is to see continuing improvements in sport fish population, and to see people enjoying the lake again.”

VOCAL LOCALS

THIS MONTH’S QUESTION

What’s your favorite thing to do with your pet?

Edie G.

Serena A.

Bruna M.

Darius N.

Sarai R.

Our dog area in In the Cove just got re-sodded.

We love taking our dog there to throw the frisbee and hang out.

It’s what we’re doing today!

Ruby and I love to walk around the Farmers Market, then go into Axum and hang out for a few hours.

Everything.

We do everything together. He even follows me into the bathroom.

Isn’t that right, Toby?

We just moved here from LA, and recently found West Orange Dog Park, so we like to come here. There’s a nice dog park in my apartment complex, too.

I just love to lay curled up on the couch with my two dogs, Leon and Henry, and watch “Nightmare Next Door.”

Creature Comforts at the Blake

One of the most difficult things about owning a pet is parting with them—especially if it’s because of a move. Fortunately for area seniors considering assisted living, one brand-new Winter Garden community is completely pet-friendly.

The Blake at Hamlin welcomes nearly all domestic pets, from dogs and cats to birds and fish. The community’s executive director, Angie Layfield, believes in the power of animal-human bonds of all breeds.

“The most challenging pet I’ve had in my 20 years of senior living experience was a 11⁄2 lb. dog named Mighty Mouse, so pet weight isn’t my concern in most cases,” says Layfield. “My preference is to ‘interview’ pets to make sure they’re a good and safe fit.”

Learn more at blakeliving.com/communities/hamlin

Think Pink and Ride!

For more than a decade, Dennis Jones, owner of Wheel Works, has hosted the Think Pink Cancer Ride to support breast cancer research.

Proceeds go toward research at Moffitt Cancer Center and are made in honor of Dennis’s mother, Jeanette, who passed away from breast cancer. Registration is open for the 11th annual event on October 9, but space is limited to the first 500 registrants. If you don’t make it, or don’t ride, come cheer them on!

Learn more or register at in.thelocal.com/think-pink

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Garden Variety

Doggone Cool Finds

During your next Farmers Market trip,make time for a visit to Boss Dog Studios just a mile up the road. Run by local prop artists Tim and Joyce Fake, who have been part of many creative experiences in theme parks and theaters throughout central Florida, Boss Dog’s wares are one-of-a-kind trinkets, vintage items, furniture, and upcycled props from past projects.

So, why sell their spare treasures? Walk to the back of the store and you’ll find Fort Barachel, an indoor skate park and recreation area. Proceeds from each purchase go toward this nonprofit initiative, designed to give Winter Garden youth—including their own son, Colt—a safe space to ride, climb, belong, and grow.

The unique shop is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and by appointment.

(Boss Dog, by the way, is named after the Fakes’ dog, Boss. He’s the one on the sign.) @thebossdogstudios @thebossdogstudio

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MARKET WATCH

Winter Park Honey

LOCAL HISTORY

Treat allergies, support bees, and enjoy some tasty honey all in one trip.

Celebrate Our Heritage

Once upon a time, Jean Vasieck was helping a friend remove a beehive—that is, an 11-foot-tall beehive with combs weaving through drywall and cement. This mass of 40 thousand bees was what kickstarted her passion for the little creatures and their amazing golden honey.

After studying with her brother in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she started bee charming as a hobby. In the early 2000s, Vasieck began producing small-batch honey, sieved through cheesecloth and with no chemicals added. Today, Winter Park Honey is sold all over the country.

They were at the very first WG Farmers Market (and were even the first on site) and have been coming ever since. They have two patented formulas, The Local and The Allergy, and are the only local honey company legally allowed to infuse wind-blown pollen to fight allergens.

No allergies? Good thing honey also has healing properties. Vasieck’s mom, a young woman in her early 100s, had facial surgery to remove cancer and after topical application of buckwheat honey, there is no scar! Even SeaWorld uses Winter Park Honeycomb as an antibacterial and a sealant to pack into underwater animal wounds.

Winter Garden was first incorporated 113 years ago. The City and the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation will host a celebration of the community’s historic roots on November 6.

The Winter Garden Heritage and Music Festival will host exhibits and presentations of Winter Garden’s heritage, as well as live music on five stages. Take a trip back in time and learn about a community that came together to be known as Winter Garden. Visit downtownwg.com to learn more.

WI N TE R G AR DE N

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CHARITABLE SPOTLIGHT

REVIEW

Watch

Read

Listen

If you’re looking for a show with a lot of laughs and a lot of heart, I recommend trying Special (Netflix, 2019–2021, TVMA). It’s about a young gay man coming into his own while overcoming physical limitations. It is a comedy, but it has so much at its core, and really teaches some great lessons.

The only thing I disliked about Special is that it’s short. There are only two seasons, and each of its episodes are only about 15-20 minutes long.

Educated: A Memoir is about the author, Tara Westover, who was born into an extreme survivalist family in rural Idaho where “keeping off the radar” was most important, and education and medical treatment were not. She was brave enough to rise above it all and set out on a journey to discover who she is and get the education she craved.

It’s difficult to read at times, but it is a fascinating and inspiring story full of strength, grit, and perseverance. Tara is proof that you don’t have to be trapped in your own circumstances.

I borrowed Educated from the West Orange Public Library. It’s waiting on the shelf for the next reader to find!

“This is how the news should sound. Twenty minutes a day, five days a week.” That’s the description on the website for The Daily, a once-per-day news podcast run by the New York Times.

It’s news how it used to be, with in-depth coverage on the day’s important topics, hosted by Michael Barbaro. No hysteria, no opinions, just calm discussion. It’s one of the only news outlets I can describe as “chill.”

Kyle L.

A local connoisseur of comedy and CrossFit enthusiast. Kyle’s favorite movie quote is: “It was a drive-by fruiting” (Mrs. Doubtfire), and his favorite binge-watching snack is “gummy bears for sure!”

Laura C.

A local realtor and avid bookworm, reading 25 to 35 books per year. Laura loves to pair her books with a cup of coffee in the morning and a local craft beer in the evenings—and always on a screened-in porch.

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Briand L.

A retired local with a passion for reading and music, being a guitar player himself. He loves spending his days with his wife, Cher, and his two puppies, Sadie and River

With an upsweep of surrenders as people return to work, Polka Dogz Pet Rescue is home to many animals looking for a home. Polka Dogz is a no-kill shelter specializing in finding forever homes for senior, special needs, and shy pups.

Photos can be found on their website and on social media. If you’re a sucker for a sweet face, you’ll definitely want to check them out.

Monetary donations help cover medical expenses, and they are always looking for volunteers. Polka Dogz also currently has 45 people who help foster their dogs.

Get Involved!

polkadogz.org @polkadogz @polkadogzpetrescue

The Local Scene YOUR BEST RESOURCES FOR WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN

THE LATEST CITY NEWS, EVENTS, AND MORE, STRAIGHT FROM THE SOURCE Follow the City of Winter Garden’s official social media and subscribe to the Downtown WG blog for bimonthly articles on local businesses and initiatives. downtownwg.com

@officialdowntownwintergarden

Yappy Hour

FROM EVENTS TO DEALS, THE WINTER GARDEN APP IS YOUR COMMUNITY GUIDE Check out the Portals and Secret Garden for augmented reality experiences.

THE BEST PLACE TO CONNECT WITH NEIGHBORS, EVENTS, AND BUSINESSES IN HORIZON WEST horizonwesthappenings.com Join the Horizon West Happenings Facebook Community Group here

Throw back hooch alongside your pooch during this month’s Yappy Hour at Pammy’s Sammies. This free event was first organized by Savanna Westwood, aka The Savvy Sitter, as a way to bring the West Orange Pet Service Network together to, well, network. “It was originally meant just for the network, but eventually Pam opened it to all Pawrents,” says Westwood. “All pets are welcome to come and hang out, but it has gone to the dogs.”

Event returns in October. Tune into the Pammy’s Sammies Facebook page to see the next date!

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Tails to Tell

True Lady Blue Petite Blue & Gold Macaw, age 14 I was born to be seen. I mean, just look at me! That’s why my humans take me everywhere. I knew they were right for me when I was just a baby bird. I crawled right into their lap, and that was that.

This Lady especially loves men. Once, when I was swept up by a sudden gust and cast into the pool, I thought I was done for. But my humans’ nephew leapt in and saved me. He is my hero, and if you look like him, you are too.

I’ve dazzled and delighted hundreds of humans at nursing homes, day cares, and on Instagram (@ladybluewg). I also make my rounds at the Farmers Market, so don’t be shy about looking upon my splendor. I’ll even perch on you, if I so choose. (But don’t touch the merchandise.)

Does your pet have a tail to tell?

Share it at in.thelocal.com/tell-tails

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WI N TE R G AR DE N

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Also find us on

Some people can’t resist the call of the wild. These locals are among them, putting the “garden” back in Winter Garden.

Natural Instincts R H E YA TANNER

F R ED LO PE Z

Amy Stotler poses with her oldest cow, Queeda, age 8.

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Moo What You Love “I love everything about cows,” says Amy Stotler, owner of the cows that graze on the south side of Plant Street near the 429. “I love their personalities. I love that they’re good mamas.

I’m always taking pictures and videos with them.”

This love started while showing cows at county fairs in Ocoee High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) program.

“Now some of the cows I raise go back to the Ocoee High School FFA as show cows,” she says.

Stotler talks about her cows as if they are lifelong friends. Jacey is the outgoing, photogenic one.

Addison is the matriarch of the herd, while Julie is often nursing other calves.

“I don’t know if she knows they’re not hers. But either way, she doesn’t seem to mind,” she says.

“My oldest cow, Queeda, you never know if she’s going to be super sweet or if she’s not gonna like you.

It’s nothing personal. She does it to me all the time.”

The best way to get personal with Stotler’s cows is through her social media—namely Instagram and Tiktok, @amystotler.

“I didn’t come up with any cool names. I thought I’d have, like, four followers,” she says. “I like to educate. I

tell a lot of stories—I tell the good, I tell the bad. And my followers are invested, like they’re part of the family.

That’s what I love most.”

Queeda in particular is the subject of one Tiktok that went viral. “It was of her bringing me her newborn calf,” Stotler says. “A licensing company picked it up and now it’s at 18 million views.”

As for offline support, friends and fans often honk as they drive by.

(And there are many friends and fans, so that’s a lot of honking.) But passersby will also look out for the cows’ well-being.

“One time a friend called us when they saw a coyote chasing a calf, and we were able to come out and

deal with it,” she says.

Stotler is delighted to have the opportunity to spread the love. “It makes me happy that my cows make people happy,” she says. “I love to share the joy of cows and their calves with people who might not get to experience it.”

“It makes me happy that my cows make people happy.”

—Amy Stotler

Amy Stotler poses with her cow, Jaycee

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Good to Grow Do Good Farm isn’t the type of farm you’re expecting. You’ll find goats and chickens, but you’ll also find greenhouses that run on fish and lush forests that seem to have leapt from the pages of

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a storybook. And somewhere within, you’re likely to find the friendly smile and golden heart of Josh Taylor.

“Instead of shipping boxes of rice and beans over and over, we want to

WI N TE R G AR DE N

lows residents to keep their own coop.

Samantha applied and did plenty of research, especially on what type of chickens to own. “I saw photos of Silkies and fell in love,” she says. “They’re a smaller breed, less vocal and more friendly. I figured they’d make being a ‘chicken lady’ more interesting.”

She picked up her Silkies—named Sugar, Spice, Blueford, and Naked Neck—in February. “I live on Main

sustain more than 100 species of edible plants, from common produce staples to edible cactus, cranberry hibiscus, cassava, and more.

If you’re wondering what those taste like, you’re in luck. Do Good Farm’s first Dinner Bell event of the season is October 23. The five-course chef’s table experience is designed to introduce people to the farm and to showcase the quality of locally sourced food.

Proceeds from the event empower people to grow help Do Good Farms, but their own food,” he says you can also contribute of his non-profit aiming through volunteering, to end hunger through donating, or simply pursustainable farming. So chasing a latte from House far they have established Blend Cafe in Ocoee—also six self-sustaining farms operated by Do Good Farm. that currently do good in “Farming is hard work, Honduras, Burundi, and but it’s peaceful work,” says our own backyard “Once we set up a farm, it’s able to Taylor. “I enjoy the physical side of it, but it’s getting to run indefinitely.”

The farm’s permaculture impact people’s lives that’s so rewarding.” food forest and aquaponic dogoodfarm.org garden work together to

Photos (left) courtesy Do Good Farm

Chick Picks

People choose pets for different reasons, whether it’s companionship, protection, or sheer aesthetics. So why did Samantha Robinson choose chickens?

“I was bored!” she says. “I read Winter Garden was offering permits to their residents to raise Chickens and thought, ‘why not?’”

Those permits are part of the city’s Backyard Chicken Program, which al-

Street, and thought they’d add a bit of nostalgia,” she says. “People often stop by and visit my chickens— sometimes they even have a glass of wine and watch them.”

The main motivator for the program was to let locals source eggs from their backyard. Once they’re ready, that is. “I haven’t gotten the first egg yet,” says Robinson. “Mine are still young.”

Until then, chicken ladyhood is mostly a flock-ton of maintenance, for which the chickens aren’t particularly grateful. “Blueford tries to fight me every single day,” she says. “And my childhood memories of raising chickens blocked out how much

goes into keeping the coop clean.”

But Robinson doesn’t mind the work, and is happy with her flock.

“The word ‘chicken’ used to bring to mind food,” she says. “Now, four furry, funny cluckers come to mind.”

That’s not to say she can’t still enjoy a serving of poultry on her plate.

“Sometimes I eat chicken with my wine while watching my flock,” she says. “They don’t have a clue!”

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Rise of a Monarch Winter Garden’s much-anticipated copper Monarch butterfly sculpture, crafted

by Central Florida sculptor and artist Don Reynolds,

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has finally hatched from its chrysalis and is now sunning its wings in the park between the splash pad and Plant Street Exchange.

The butterfly, officially named Flora, is presented by the Bloom & Grow Society in celebration of 20 years of partnership with

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the city. The group’s very first garden festival was held in 2000, and its twentieth will be April 2022.

“The monarch exhibits immense strength and tenacity by making the 3000mile trek to the mountains of Mexico,” says Bloom &

Grow Publicity Chair Joyce Carcara, “The women of Bloom & Grow aspire to be like the monarch butterfly, acknowledging our capacity to change and grow.”

LOO K I N G I N

H O R I ZON

F O R

WE ST

YO U R

AN D

H O M E

WI N T E R

G AR D E N ?

ELLEN PROBST R E A LT O R ® R N , N P

TRACE Y FORRESTER R E A LT O R ® G R I , G K C

407.815.4420 ElleSellsFlorida@gmail.com ElleSellsFlorida.com

914.582.8521 Tracey@TraceyForrester.com TraceyForrester.com

HEALS ON With her mobile veterinary services, Dr. Donita is ready to make a house call.

D

r. Donita McCants has hit upon a better way to care for your pet: by bringing her practice to you. Her veterinary office is on wheels—soon to be upgraded to a tricked out Mercedes Benz Sprinter van currently in production. Her human clients love it and her pet clients certainly prefer it paws down, less stress and anxiety all around.

Going mobile with a concierge veterinary practice is new for Dr. Donita. But taking care of animals has been a dream for many years. “I was always one of those kids putting popsicle sticks on baby birds. I’ve pushed for this dream since I was five years old. Now the dream is real.”

It’s a dream that comes with mileage attached, literally. Dr. Donita covers a wide swath in her aim to bring quality veterinary care to her patients. Her house calls take her to West Orlando, Windermere, Winter Garden, Dr. Phillips, Ocoee, MetroWest, Millennia, South Apopka,

Downtown and all places in between.

She does everything but major sedated procedures, which she refers to BluePearl Specialty Animal Hospital in Maitland. Otherwise, she has you and your pet covered. Who knew house calls from your vet would become a thing? Dr. Donita is quick to say she was not the first to think of it. But we suspect she’ll soon be one of the best.

Many already know her from her videos and interviews on social media where she has become a mainstay. Get to know her yourself on Instagram and Facebook.

“I was always one of those kids putting popsicle sticks on baby birds.…

Now the dream is real.”

Winter Garden (407) 490-1652 AskDrDonita.com @askdrdonita PR O MOT IO NAL F E AT U RE

WHEELS

Reigning

Cats& ogs D Dog person? Cat person? In animal-friendly Winter Garden, we say “why choose?” Here are a few of our finest four-pawed pets and pet-people.

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F R E D LO PE Z

Two-year-old Hamilton “Ham” the Frenchie is the unofficial mascot of Aguero’s operation—and her right-hand man.

Pet Projects It started as a passion project.”I liked to draw portraits of dogs I fostered and some of the dogs at the rescue where I volunteered,” says Ingrid Aguero, pet portrait artist and dog foster mom.

“Now, it’s customers who reach out to me.”

Her pencil drawings are typically of dogs, but Aguero has done plenty of cats and the occasional bird (as pictured above). She’s been drawing all her life, but her business is relatively new.

Aguero’s own dogs include an 8-year-old French Mastiff, a pug-mix rescue, a foster dog named Duncan, and her happy little Hamilton—“Ham” for short.

The art also benefits Aguero’s rescue efforts; proceeds from each commission go to an area animal rescue. Through the end of this year, 20% of sales benefit Southern States Bully Rescue. ingridartandphoto.com

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Kitten Mama

Brady-Gram “I just wanted to create a thumbprint of our adventures together,” says Brittany Rock, owner of Winter Garden’s Insta-famous Yorkie, Brady. She and her husband Mike adopted Brady from South Lake Animal League when he was 7. “We wanted to give him a fresh start on life,” she says.

Creating the Instagram profile for him felt natural.

“I was already taking photos of him everywhere we went, but thought it would be too overwhelming to post on my own page,” says Rock. “I saw other people make Instagrams for their dogs, so I just started my own. Then we gained a whole bunch of followers.”

Brady, now 11, loves getting recognized at the Crooked Can and the Farmers Market by vendors and patrons alike. “He loves people coming up to him, talking to him, petting him,” she says. “He probably gets recognized at least once a month.”

Rock is a big proponent for adoption, especially of seniors like Brady. “Don’t overlook the senior dogs.

They have so much life left.” @brady_the_yorkie_ RIGHT: Foster Kitten Mama poses with kittens Kate and Pippa.

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Heidi Shoemaker had been with a cat rescue for a year before starting her own operation as Foster Kitten Mama.“I realized I could do more on my own,” she says.

“So far, it’s worked out really well. Many of my followers send supplies we need for us to do as much as we do.”

Shoemaker’s focus is usually on pregnant or nursing mothers. “A lot of other rescuers won’t help them, but I try to give them a chance. It’s amazing to see them born and watch them grow from day 1.”

With a variety of mamas and babies in varying stages, Foster Kitten Mama often cares for as many as 30 cats at a time. “It sounds like a madhouse, but it’s really not,” says Shoemaker. “We keep the cats separate in their own spaces. The mother cats stay in their birthing box for up to four weeks. So it’s mostly pretty calm.”

In her 1.5 years in operation, Shoemaker has rescued nearly 200 cats. “I keep a running total in my Insta bio and add to it every time we take new ones in.”

But a Foster Kitten Mama’s work is never done. “I get messages daily about cats,” she says. “Once you start fostering, people start calling you. I’m just happy I can make a difference.” @fosterkittenmama

For Jeff Doyle, Master Police Officer, and Joe Thompson, Canine Officer First Class, every day is Bring Your Dog to Work Day. A day in the life of K-9s Stitch and Dak includes patrol work, surveillance, building searches, and often tracking people who are missing or have fled.

But off duty, the dogs are just dogs, albeit pretty active ones. “They’re very high-drive and have to be doing something all the time,” says Officer Doyle.

Be warned: these dogs are not friendly on the clock—and aren’t supposed to be. But at home, they enjoy the leisurely life every good boy should.

“They have the ability to turn it off, which is the coolest thing,” says Officer Thompson. “You see the two sides of them, when they’re at work and when they’re at home.”

Pooch Patrol

ABOVE: Stitch, 5-year-old Belgian Malinois, with handler Officer Doyle.

LEFT: Dak, 4-yearold German Shepherd, with handler Officer Thompson.

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Taking Care of Business Some people are willing to take a lot of crap. But who’s willing to take it straight from your yard? Michael Wright, owner of Poop Bandit, is up to the task.

The job is exactly what it says on the tin. “We go into people’s yards and pick up all the poop,” says Wright.

Poop Bandit was started by Wright’s son, Lucas, here in Winter Garden in 2017 and has been scooping up business across Orange County ever since—with an emphasis on eco-friendliness. “One day I’d like to develop a process to turn the pet waste into compost instead of having it just go to the landfill,” says Wright.

The company also goes beyond its expected call of duty. “If we see anything abnormal in the poop, we let the client know, just in case the dog is sick,” he says.

For Wright, excellent service is second-nature, having spent much of his pre-poop life in the private service industry managing butlers, chefs, and personal assistants.

Poop Bandit will abscond with your excrement one to two times per week and offers one-time pickups. If you’re home when the Bandit arrives, be sure to say hi. “We love to interact with our furry friends and clients!” poopbandit.com

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Sitting with Savvy It’s the job we all dream of. “Other than petting puppies and kitties all day,” says Savanna Westwood, aka The Savvy Sitter, “we make sure pets are healthy, safe, comfortable, and loved on.”

Animals have always been part of Westwood’s life. “I grew up around bunnies, mice, fish, snails, crawfish, cats, dogs, and horses,” she says. She is an avid equestrian and hopes to own a horse of her own again one day. “Right now I have no pets of my own, unless you count my fish.”

Alongside walking and sitting services, Westwood takes pride in being one of Winter Garden’s key pet resources—hence the name. But “savvy” also has a more personal origin. “It was actually my nickname in high school, from Pirates of the Caribbean. Thanks, Captain Jack Sparrow.”

Most of her savvy sitting is of the canine or feline variety, but she has also had some more unique clientele, including poison dart frogs, bearded dragons, saltwater fish, koi, leopard geckos, and tropical

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birds. “We’ve taken care of a hand-trained sun conure, which was super cool.”

All her clients have one thing in common: they love Westwood. “When I do check-in calls, sometimes the dogs hear my voice over the phone and freak out,” she says. “They start looking for me because they hear me, but can’t see me.”

That comes partly from Savvy Sitter’s relationship-building process. “If a pet is scheduled for a 30-minute visit, but keeps their distance, we may alter the visit to be more of a bonding exercise,” she says.

“We want to go at the pet’s pace, and that takes patience, respect, and kindness.”

Kitty in the City Cats aren’t often known for their love of walks—especially on a leash. But such stereotypes have never stopped Andrew Spencer, one of several cats rescued and owned by District 2 Commissioner Ron Mueller. Cooler than any human could ever be, this cat deserves his own Instagram. And that’s why he has one: @andrewthefearless

thesavvysitter.org

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Dream Team

“The folks who started Puppy Dreams ran it for 20 years and wanted to retire, so they put it on the market—the business and the property,” says Laura.

If you know nothing else “At first I was like, ‘yeah, about Ryan and Laura Taylor, right,’” says Ryan. “But it was know that their whole heart a good chunk of land in an belongs to animals. “We’re big proponents of adoption,” up-and-coming area. Plus, we both really care about says Ryan. “There are so many animals out there who animals, so it was a business I could see us doing.” need a home—and they’re So, the couple went in on often the best ones.”

Puppy Dreams, and managIt was only a matter of time, es it while they balance their then, before their fervor for day jobs. their furry friends led them Puppy Dreams currently to owning Puppy Dreams Pet employs seven people, most Boarding. “Laura’s always had of whom have been working this dream of owning a farm there for several years. with hundreds of animals,” says Ryan. “So this scratches that itch for both of us.”

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“We’re fortunate to have an amazing staff,” says Ryan. “That’s the key, is the wonderful people working there. For the most part, we let the staff do what they do best.” puppydreamspetboarding.com

Puppy Love Which puppy loves Puppy Dreams the most? Probably the Taylors’ own dog, Leo. “It’s almost embarrassing,” says Larua. “He runs to the door to get in, and I have to drag all 60 pounds of him to the car when we leave.”

Leo is Laura and Ryan Taylor’s first dog since their Puppy Dreams mascot died four years ago. “It took him that long to be ready for another puppy,” says Laura.

They found Leo on social media, in a post from a South Florida rescue. “We drove down there on Valentine’s Day to pick him up.” says Ryan.

Bring the Gang Every local dog owner worth their kibble knows Woof Gang Bakery is the spot for gourmet goodies and fun toys and accessories. But there’s plenty of fun treats and toys made specially for cats as well.

Woof Gang also offers grooming services, from trims and touch-ups to a full spa-day experience.

And if it’s your best buddy’s special day, try treating him to a pet birthday cake baked locally. woofgangbakery.com

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Slice Haven of

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S

You may see a horse, but Susan Nastasi sees a deeply intelligent being with the ability to share with us the healing power of unconditional love. It’s a difference you have to feel to believe.

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usan Nastasi has loved, ridden, cared for, and shared her awe of horses from an early age. Even as she grew up and built a career, spending 25 years in finance as Regional Vice President for MetLife, she held onto horses as her escape from the rigors of that life.

Today, what started out as a young girl’s fascination has morphed into a healing sanctuary built on the strength of what scientists call the human-animal bond. She just calls it Soul Haven Ranch.

The Nature of Horses An easy bike ride from downtown, Soul Haven Ranch is exactly what Nastasi hoped it would be when she acquired the first of her five miniature horses in October 2016: the hope of sharing the unconditional love of horses with her fellow humans.

“The world is in such turmoil right now, and lots of people are hurting in ways they may not even realize. I want people to spend a little time with one of God’s most magnificent creatures and leave here changed, with peace in their hearts.”

It’s why the tagline of the ranch is Sharing Of Unconditional Love, or SOUL. But Soul Haven is also a working ranch. Pound for pound, miniature horses are just as strong as their full-size counterparts.

They were bred to work in mines, moving carts loaded with ore, and can easily pull five times their weight.

Translate that to a fullsize horse, and you’ll realize that, to him, drawing a carriage around the town is child’s play. He’d probably whistle if he could.

Soul Haven Ranch is the official carriage company for Winter Garden throughout the holiday season. You may have seen their two white horses pulling a gorgeous white “Princess Carriage” or a vis-à-vis carriage (the seats face one another) through the streets. A small carriage sized for minis is in the works, as is a hearse horse carriage.

The Gift of Horses In other words, Soul Haven Ranch depends on nothing more or less than the spirit of horses.

As Nastasi puts it, “The horses do all the work.

They are able to connect with people and be with others unconditionally.

They have an innate abil-

ity to connect on a level with people that people themselves have difficulty doing.”

One of Nastasi’s favorite stories is of a visit from a 95-year-old woman who was deathly afraid of horses. Inside of 15 minutes, the woman had her arms flung around the neck of Trouble, the riding horse, for a photo. (The image is on their website.)

Not all encounters are so instantly magical,but they are all special. “The moment you step into an experience with my horses you’ll feel it. They take on the role of that work.”

Not content with waiting around for the world to discover the gift of horses, Nastasi reached out to a national organization that certifies therapy animals, Pet Partners. She and her first two minis became certified and joined the more than 10,000 registered Pet Partners teams that make more than 3 million visits every year.

Today all her minis are registered therapy horses, with seven certified handlers qualified on one or more of them. Nastasi and her ranch ambassadors visit nursing homes, hospice care facilities, schools, seniors’ organizations, and people who suffer from PTSD or have special needs.

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Her animals also lend their talents to another worthy cause close to Nastasi’s heart, an anti-bullying initiative called We Help One Another (WHOA). According to the WHOA website, a child is bullied every seven minutes, and an estimated 160,000 children miss school each day for fear of attack or intimidation by other students.

Combating all that might seem like a lot of weight to put on a mini horse’s

“I want people to spend a little time with one of God’s most magnificent creatures and leave here changed, with peace in their hearts.”

—Susan Nastasi, Soul Haven Ranch

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shoulders, but apparently The process is differthey can handle it. They’re ent for everyone, and adept at carrying more the results can range than you’d expect. from subtle to profound, but they are real. Blood The Spirit pressures go down, stress of Horses levels melt, endorphins From carriage rides to increase, leaving particitherapy time, Soul Haven pants feeling serene.

Ranch is about making If you have your doubts, connections, with ourall you really have to do is selves and with another stand close beside one of living being naturally attuned to letting us in.

Giddyup!

Want to feed your soul a handful of hay?

Of course you do. Here are three ways to get up close and share in Nastasi’s vision: 1. Rent a room in the Soul Haven Bed and Breakfast. Three rooms on the second floor of the Ranch main house, fittingly named Hope, Joy, and Peace, are listed with Airbnb. According to Nastasi, they’ve had visitors from all the continents as well as locals.

Most wanted a glimpse of the real Florida without the crush of crowded attractions.

2. Book time with a miniature horse.

Remember that human-animal bond? This special program is where it happens. Go oneon-one with one of these amazing little guys and change your life. You’ll start by picking your own miniature horse—Nastasi says people invariably pick a horse that mirrors their own personality. Then it’s one hour of you and the horse, no outside interference apart from a brush and a bag of goodies. Groom him, brush him, talk to him, hang with him, walk the West Orange Trail with him. It’s up to you. Time slots for these interactions fill up fast, so don’t wait.

3. Take a carriage ride! Nastasi says this these amazing animals, talk to them, and watch those ears flick back and forth. Rub that velvety muzzle and scratch between those big, brown eyes, and suddenly you’ll start to understand.

But what does Nastasi herself get out of Soul Haven Ranch? “We have to remember that horses don’t need us. We need them. They allow us to

link up with them and be in their space. Soul Haven Ranch is a spiritual place.

It’s also my home. We are here to promote the connection of people and animals, to provide a place of peace and wellbeing, and to create meaningful experiences for others.

What do I get? I get to sit on the sidelines and watch it all happen.”

is the best way to add magic to any milestone.

Soul Haven Ranch is listed on the Winter Garden website for tours during the holidays.

Lizzy and Libby would love to see you. (They’re the ones with the tails.)

soulhavenranch.com

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Homefront

The Thrill of the Haunt

The heart behind the Osser house’s bonerattling decor inspired by Halloween classics

S

ince 2005, David Osser has been bringing holiday fear to Winter Garden with his elaborate Halloween decorations.

Boarded up windows, light shows, cobwebs, life-sized horror icons—and sometimes larger-than-life—he’s known for bringing his A-game to spooky season.

But what inspired this tradition of terror is something you might not expect. Many years ago, David’s parents, Jerry and Beverly, decided to go all-out on Halloween each year as a way to celebrate their son’s birthday on December 29.

Observant readers may note that this is nowhere near Halloween. Unfortunately, it’s near something even scarier: Christmas and New Year’s. And as anyone born in mid-to-late December knows, that’s basically

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the worst possible time to have a birthday, since it is consistently overshadowed by two of the biggest internationally celebrated holidays on the calendar.

Rather than facing the challenge of differentiating their son’s birthday presents from his Christmas presents, the Osser family decided to circumvent the issue completely and celebrate his birthday on Halloween instead.

Needless to say, the tradition stuck.

David’s Halloween obsession has seeped into his bones. During his time working as a Universal team member, his favorite job has been playing the role of Michael Myers during Halloween Horror Nights 26. He is a part of this year’s Halloween Horror Nights as well.

His spooky standout house, meanwhile, is an annual neighborhood highlight, drawing visitors from around the city—and this

year’s is his biggest yet, with twice as many decorations as last year.

“My most popular Halloween item is my 12-foot skeleton, Skelly, which made its debut last year,” says David. “I decided this year to invest in two new items: a gigantic spider called Bear, and a 12-foot Inferno Pumpkin Skeleton to rival Skelly.

The outdoor and indoor displays are themed, with the names “Forgotten Traditions” and “The Age of Vintage Halloween,” respectively. Also new to the 2021 display is a main character, a witch named Vivienne who loves to keep the traditions of Old Halloween alive.

David’s personal favorite decorations, though, are his Telco Marionettes, the small-scale animatronics of the 80s that were popular Christmas decorations, but also sold a Halloween collection. “These quite frankly

got me into Halloween,” he says. “I have about 60 of them. It’s amazing they still run to this day.”

As for potential trick-ortreaters? The house receives mixed reviews. Some of the children are too scared to come to the door for candy, but others are mesmerized and lean into the fun.

Some children are too scared to come to the door for candy, but others are mesmerized and lean into the fun.

One of David’s favorite things about it, though, is seeing how the hallowed Halloween classics are still fresh in the minds of the next generation. Kids who come through the house easily recognize Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Wolf Man, to name a few.

“I was overwhelmed by how many visitors I had last year,” says David. “I had more trick-or-treaters than ever, and did tours throughout October for my friends and family.”

David has extended his tour opportunities to other groups, with 10 tour bookings scheduled.

The Osser house will haunt the night Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays throughout October, as well as select weekend dates— including, of course, the Hallowed Eve itself.

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Oh Well!

HEALTH

What a Pain in the Neck!

If your neck or back have been hurting more since you started working from home, don’t fret.

All you may need is a little adjustment.

The world has changed in many ways the past couple years. This is especially true with lifestyle changes, since many more people are now working from home. Along with that

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change comes new challenges, and sometimes new pains.

As a chiropractor, I’ve noticed more patients dealing with lower neck/upper back pain. This has always been a

common issue, but recently, almost every single patient has said this “new pain” started shortly after setting up their work-from-home station. Luckily, this is usually fairly easy to address.

The first thing I talk to patients about is addressing any issues with the ergonomics at their work from home station. After that, we start on treatment, focusing on soft tissue (muscle) work in the area. Generally the muscles surrounding the area will be rather tight and we can relax those muscles through electric muscle stimulation, stretching, and myofascial release.

We then move into the adjustment for the lower neck and upper back. This area where the cervical spine (neck) and thoracic spine (mid-back) meet and is known as the cervicothoracic junction, or the CT junction. During the adjustment, the goal is to break up fibrous adhesions in the joints of the CT junction that cause inflammation and restrict joint mobility. This allows for better movement, reduced pain, and better functioning while also causing the surrounding muscles to relax.

This increase in movement and decreased muscle tension from the adjustment gives us a window of time to work on strengthening the area. The combination of the muscle work, the adjustment, and the strengthening exercises provides the most beneficial treatment to these patients for not only pain relief, but also for preventing future pains.

Connor Kelley, D.C.

Chiropractor at Greater Orlando Chiropractic & Wellness. Connor is a fourth-generation Central Floridian who grew up in Leesburg.

His interest in the field began when chiropractic treatment helped him recover from a football injury in High School.

NUTRITION

Beneficial Brew Why drink kombucha? Heck, what even is kombucha anyway?

When you want a sweet, bubbly drink, what do you reach for? Soda may be tasty but is often loaded with more sugar than a candy bar, and while diet sodas are sugar-free, drinking these products may still yield health concerns. So, what should you drink?

Kombucha (pronounced kuhm-BOO-chuh) is a lightly effervescent, sweetened black or green tea drink fermented with a colony of live bacteria and yeast, called SCOBY, and infused with fruits and herbs. Here are some benefits to adding kombucha to your daily routine: 1. Probiotics are important to creating good bacteria in your gut, which aids in digestion, balances energy levels, and strengthens our immune system.

2. The brewing process naturally produces vitamins C, B, B1, B6, and B12.

3. Kombucha is rich in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that can reduce inflammation.

Breanne D’Amato Co-owner of Main House Market. She and

co-owner Brandon Wood are avid kombucha drinkers who are passionate about sharing quality, local brews and supporting local businesses and artists in the Winter Garden community.

WELLNESS COUNTS

1976

The year the first formal therapy dog program was established by nurse Elaine Smith.

SOURCE: figopetinsurance.com

58% The percentage of US animal owners who believe pets should be allowed at work.

SOURCE: petpedia.co

50K

The current number of registered therapy dogs in the United States. (There are also other therapy animals, including pigs, monkeys, rabbits, and horses.)

SOURCE: petpedia.co

30% The reduction in emergency medical calls reported by seniors who own a pet versus those who do not.

SOURCE: petpedia.co

FITNESS

Row Man Row As I got further along into my 30s, I wanted to find a way to get an intense workout, in a short amount of time, and without feeling too sore afterwards. I had used a rowing machine off and on for years, but was always a bit intimidated by them. Finally, last year, I took the plunge and made the investment in my own rowing machine, and it couldn’t have been a better choice.

In as little as 30 minutes I get my heart rate up to a maximum level, I use over 80% of the muscles in my body, and I sweat like nobody’s business. Though I can’t say I’m not a bit sore after a good workout, they’re not the aches and pains in my knees and ankles that often come with 30 minutes of running.

Adam Ashton

A native of the Greater Orlando area, Adam has lived in Winter Garden with his wife Christina and his son Keegan for the past three years.

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Eats+Drinks

Tongue Thai’ed

How to enjoy the spicy, savory, taste bud–changing joy of the Green Garden at Thai Blossom.

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nyone who has eaten at Thai Blossom knows the presentation is half the joy. That’s no different with the Green Garden entrée with shrimp.

Vibrant veggies in a savory sauce are complemented by a hearty and adorable serving of white rice.

Green Garden is a joyful taste experience as well, thanks to its medley of textures. Crisp, crunchy sprouts, tender carrots, broccoli, onions, cabbage, and your protein of choice.

Even better, you get to feel all healthy when it’s done.

Full disclosure, this is my go-to order, but it’s hard to go wrong with Thai. There is, however, one important caveat: it has to be at least a little spicy.

To those of you who eat ghost peppers for fun,

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great, no problem. But to those who burn up at the thought of spice: trust me, I understand. Growing up, I was an unreasonably picky eater. Even as I broadened my horizons, the one flavor frontier I was too timid to traverse was heat. I couldn’t wrap my head around why people wanted their food to cause them pain.

That is, until a few years ago, when a friend brought me to Thai Blossom for the first time.

I placed my order, but made sure it would be mild mild. That was my first-ever experience with Thai food, and it was a positive one—but I knew there was something missing.

I said to my friend, “This is meant to be hot, isn’t it?” And he looked at me like I was an idiot, because

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I was. The highest heat level is called “Thai hot” for that very reason.

I left that meal with a newfound love for Thai food, and a resolve to develop enough heat tolerance to enjoy my next Thai meal as it was intended.

It took about a year before I felt ready to test my taste buds. I got it hot— well, medium—took one bite, and knew the heat was meant to be.

For the record, the mild is by no means “bad.” But heat puts those flavors into a new context; if I had to describe it, I’d say the burn sits on the surface, giving depth to the subtler flavors.

In case it wasn’t clear, though, I am not a gourmet, nor am I educated on the nuances of Southeast Asian cuisine, so take that with a grain of cayenne.

Hot or Not? Every dish at Thai Blossom allows you to choose from one of four heat levels: Mild: Not at all hot.

I recommend it for those who shy away from spice.

Medium: More kick than what you might expect, but perfectly manageable for most. On par with Tabasco sauce.

Hot: For those who like it hot. I’m told by sources braver than me that its heat is on the enjoyable edge.

Thai hot: I’ll stick with medium, thanks.

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Eats+Drinks

Hair of the Dog You woke up hung over today … bummer. Since there’s a chance I’m the one who did this to you, I feel obligated to offer a remedy—and that’s more booze.

I

fully support the concept of “the hair of the dog that bit you,” the idea that reintroducing alcohol into your system will counteract its own effects.

There is no scientific evidence to support this notion, but as someone in this industry, I’ve seen it in action.

I have curated a list of favorite hair-of-the-dog beverages for the next time you’re stuck in a rut.

(I promise, no raw eggs, Pedialyte, or actual canine hair in these concoctions.)

It’s a perpetual failsafe, and requires no energy to make happen. Just pop the top and you’re off.

3: Bloody Mary. I feel like I could never fully gain your trust if I didn’t mention the quintessential Hangover Cocktail. Use vodka or 2: Any Mule. Two words: switch it up with tequila or sugar and carbonation. The mezcal and have a Bloody best part is you can make it Maria. The fresh tomato with pretty much any spirit will fill out your stomach, from the night before. Use and salt on the rim replaces a high quality Ginger beer your electrolytes. Use heat to ease your stomach and (like Tabasco or Sriracha) to add a good spice. Fresh lime sweat out the toxins from will cut through the alcohol the night before. Finaland the citrus will replenish ly,add ridiculous garnishes vitamins. And do not forget to enhance your spirit. the bitters! A couple herbaceous drops (Angostura will 4. White Russian. If “The 1. Shower Beer. Hot show- do) will quietly ease your Dude” can start every day heartburn and nausea. er, cold beer, same time. this way, why can’t you? The

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vodka is hidden effortlessly, the Kahlua gives the illusion of coffee without the caffeine jitters, and the cream will settle your stomach. My absolute favorite variation is called a “Colorado Bulldog,” which finishes with a splash of Coke.

A small change that leads to a dramatic improvement.

Now get out there and do your best. We’re rooting for you, drink in hand.

Tarin Scarbrough

The Sommelier at The Attic Door. If you like what she pens, you’ll love what she pours! Be sure to stop by and let her know what you think or drink.

SHERRIE NEMETZ 321-436-0709 pamperedchefbysherrie@gmail.com R E Q UE S T A C ATALO G

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Near+Afar

Yellowstone Grandpa Clayne visiting with his family in 1991

Life is a Trip For the Budniks, memories of Yellowstone National Park last for generations.

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hirty years ago, my grandfather Clayne took the family to Yellowstone, his all-time favorite National Park. He was an avid traveler and explorer, enjoying national parks and white-water rafting.

We lost him in 2010, but his memory was alive during this summer’s trip.

For the first time since 1991, I returned to Yellowstone with my family (12 of us, to be exact) includ-

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ing my two kids—one of whom is his namesake.

When you make memories while traveling, the memories live on at the destinations.

National Parks are even more special because the landscapes largely remain unchanged. And the memories we made then can be passed down to the next generations.

We flew into Bozeman, Montana, and spent a

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couple days there hiking and exploring. The scenery is beautiful and the town flourishes with breweries and yummy eats, much like Winter Garden.

We rented a 12-passenger van and traveled to Yellowstone National Park through the North Entrance. While on the road, we kept our eyes peeled and stopped for any wildlife sightings. Bison are plentiful in Yellowstone, but bears are the gold star.

We were lucky to have three different bear sightings, including a mama with two cubs.

We explored the “Grand Canyon of Yellowstone,” a beautiful canyon with a river running through, passing over giant waterfalls. You can hike along the rim or drive to different viewpoints, including the famous Artist Point and the brink of both the upper and lower falls.

We drove to Lamar Valley, where thousands of bison graze in the fields, and hiked around Trout Lake to see trout spawning and otters playing. We also saw Norris Geyser Basin, where you can hear the ground sizzling and see the springs boiling. The landscape there makes you feel like you’re on a different planet.

Old Faithful was on the list for day three. We enjoyed several eruptions and hiked around the geyser basin. We also explored the Old Faithful Inn, considered the largest log structure in the world. Next was the Grand Prismatic Spring,

where we hiked up the Fairy Falls trailhead for the top viewpoint of the park’s largest hot spring with its beautiful rainbow coloring, then played in Firehole River and visited the falls.

On the fourth day, we traveled to Yellowstone Lake, took a boat tour, and explored the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel. The landscape here was my favorite of the trip. The hotel lobby is a beautiful place to grab a beer and take in the views from the panoramic windows.

Day five we stopped at Mammoth Hot Springs, described as looking like an inside-out cave, and the

When you make memories while traveling, the memories live on at the destinations.

historic Roosevelt Arch on our way back to Bozeman.

We made new memories and reconnected to old ones, feeling Grandpa Clayne with us each day. My parents shared memories of his favorite parts of Yellowstone and the things they did some 30 years ago, telling us stories of Grandpa while holding their own grandchildren in their arms. It was the trip of a lifetime that transcended a lifetime.

Ally Budnik

A Winter Garden native and local family attorney.

Ally and her husband, Kyle, were high school sweethearts from West Orange High. Both their children, Claire and Clayne, are named after late grandparents.

OC TOBER 202 1

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Rhetoric Rheya Tanner muses on life as a local

Mako Wish

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hree years ago, after a stint with gardening and the untimely deaths of several houseplants, I decided I was ready for a dog.

I grew up around dogs, so I knew the commitment I was getting into. But I was independent, hardworking, and idling in that “now what?” ambivalence of post-college adulthood.

I needed a companion, a jumpstart to my ambition, and, let’s be real, a reason to know what time it was.

It took a year of searching (mostly by my dedicated mother while I hemmed and hawed) before we found that fateful Craigslist post for the boy I’d soon name Mako. He was 18 months old and 12 pounds underweight. He lifted his leg immediately and hiccuped every time I touched

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him. He wore a black, spiked collar adorned with skulls. He really covered the gamut of, “I don’t know about this one.”

But then he looked at me with those little possum eyes, and it just felt right.

I took a breath and wished for the best, and he became my dog. And every day since, he has proven to be exactly my dog.

I take him everywhere I can get away with, and he loves to go. He senses when I’m stressed, and knocks my phone out of my hands if I’ve been scrolling too long.We spend our free time on walkies, snackies, brushies, plushies—and don’t get me started on accessories. He is my screensaver, so I can look at him while I look at him. He’s less like a pet and more like a piece I’d been missing.

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Things weren’t always easy. Case in point, Mako’s past owners didn’t neuter him, leaving me to do the honors. He was too clever for the cone, so I had to fashion a pair of dog pants out of an old pair of my own pants to keep him from his stitches. (OK, maybe I didn’t “have to.” But they had a little butt pocket!)

He’s also super picky and refuses food, even food he likes, for stupid reasons.

It was our first Gotcha Day this year, and I bought him a cupcake from Woof Gang.

He would not eat it. Why? Because it was too big. We ended up celebrating with teeny bits of cupcake for the next two weeks.

Through it all, Mako has made me a better person.

My wish is to register him as a therapy dog, to share his big heart and fluffy coat with others, but he’s still too wary of strangers.

So now it’s my job to make him a better person, too.

To that end, we visit the dog park and the Farmers Market, where he sits in his stroller and we watch all the other folks with their dogs, also in strollers.

Sometimes I wonder about their stories, how they met.

I imagine we’re all walking our own missing pieces.

That alone makes it almost worth having to pick up his poop in a bag with my hand.

Illustration: Josh Clark

Adventures of the world’s most perfect dog (mine) from an unbiased source (me).

Life on the

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