FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
HOW TO BEAT THE HEAT & STAY COOL - KEEP YOUR KIDS & PETS SAFE!
MAGAZINE July/August 2017
ocal l e v fi s all Duty c to careers in women forcement law en
LIFE. SAVED. TAKING CARE TO THE NEXT LEVEL. “Last fall, I had a really bad car accident that left me unconscious for days. Thankfully, the trauma team at Osceola Regional gave me a second chance at life. They went above and beyond in every way. I spent five weeks in the trauma unit recovering from several broken bones and a shattered pelvis. Now I’m able to use a walker, and I’m confident I’ll be walking again on my own pretty soon.” — Liza
Osceola Regional Medical Center’s Level II Trauma Center has transformed care for critically injured patients in Osceola County and beyond. Our experts are here 24/7, saving time and saving lives, giving patients like Liza a second chance at life.
To learn more about the Level II Trauma Center at Osceola Regional Medical Center, visit us online:
OsceolaRegional.com/trauma View our survivors album on Facebook.
JULY/AUGUST 2017
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departments HEALTH
Staying fit and healthy
When you have tonsil problems, allergies, or a sinus condition, you shouldn’t have to wait weeks to see a specialist. So it’s good to know that Thuong Trinh, D.O., is here to treat patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment, visit StCloudPhysicians.com
BEAT THE HEAT BY STAYING COOL p8 PROTECTING KIDS FROM HEAT ILLNESS p10-11
or call 407-992-9229.
Part of St. Cloud Physician Management
1525 Budinger Avenue • St. Cloud, FL 34769
ARE YOUR KIDS SKIN-READY FOR SCHOOL? p13
LIFE & WORK
All the goods of living in Osceola
SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE ARE LASTING SOURCES OF INDEPENDENCE p14
SOMETIMES YOUR
EARS, NOSE, OR THROAT CAN’T WAIT.
SUMMER TOPICS p16 DECLARE YOUR FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE DAY p17 WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT p20-25
COMMUNITY & PLAY
People, events and activities
HAIR HIGHLIGHTS p26 RECIPES p27-28 MOTHER'S DAY SHOUT OUTS p26 GALA PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE 'VOICES OF OSCEOLA'S CHILDREN' p29-30
ONLINE SCHEDULING IS NOW AVAILABLE.
No need to wait! Online scheduling is now available at StCloudPhysicians.com.
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from the publisher
JULY/AUG 2017
| VOL. 3 NO. 4 | OSCEOLAWOMAN.COM
Dear Osceola Women,
Isn’t there something refreshing about summertime? Barbecues, days on the lake, living 45 minutes from the beach – I love it all! It sure is hot, though, and there’s a real danger of heat-related illnesses, especially when it comes to the kids. Check out ways to prevent heat illnesses on page 10, thanks to Osceola Regional Medical Center! Thank you to all who attended our First Annual Fashion Show luncheon in June! We had a great turnout and loved the opportunity to partner with our favorite boutiques around town. Special thanks to Florida Hospital, Lowes, Associates in Dermatology, the fabulous boutiques, our friends who sponsored tables, and the women who took the time out of their busy week to be our volunteer models (weren’t they beautiful!?). In this issue, we’re celebrating all of our public safety professionals (OWM backs the blue!), discussing back to
6 osceolawoman.com | JULY/AUGUST 2017
MAGAZINE
Publisher JENA THREADGILL
(jthreadgill@osceolawoman.com) Art Director AMY POSADAS Contributing Writers CHARLIE REED BLANCA TAYLOR CLEVE GRISSOM DR. GARY BORGMAN LINDSEY LUPFER VICTORIA QUEDNAU
school, and sharing info, as always, on fashion and wellness (including pet wellness). To all our readers who are parents of schoolaged children, and/ or educators – we wish you the best of luck with the start of the 2017-2018 school year! If you’re looking for something fun to do to celebrate summer break before it ends, check out Boggy Creek Airboat Rides’ new Gem/ Fossil Dig experience! Don’t miss the BOGO coupon toward the beginning of this issue – good through September 10th!
Until next time,
Administrative Assistant EVADNE GANNARELLI Distribution Manager CHASE WILLE
111 E. MONUMENT AVE. SUITE 401 KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA 34741
407.891.9771
WWW.OSCEOLAWOMAN.COM FACEBOOK.COM/OSCEOLAWOMANMAGAZINE
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AVAILABLE AT: ST. CLOUD Walgreens Gold’s Gym Chimento’s Spaghetti House Sincerely Yours St. Cloud Civic Center Victor Russell’s Hair Salon St. Cloud City Hall
KISSIMMEE Walgreens Breck’s Gourmet Cookies Fat Boy’s Bar-B-Q UCF Incubator Kissimmee City Hall
OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM IS PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY AND IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE, BY SUBSCRIPTION, DISPLAY STANDS IN APPROVED PRIVATE AND PUBLIC ESTABLISHMENTS AND AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS ONLY. TRADEMARK AND U.S. COPYRIGHT LAWS PROTECT OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER. OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY EDITORIAL COMMENT (OTHER THAN ITS OWN), TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS FROM ADVERTISEMENTS SUBMITTED AS CAMERA-READY OR ANY REPRODUCTIONS OF ADVERTISEMENTS SUBMITTED AS CAMERA-READY. IF AN ADVERTISEMENT DOES NOT MEET OUR STANDARDS OF ACCEPTANCE, WE MAY REVISE OR CANCEL IT AT ANY TIME, WHETHER OR NOT IS HAS BEEN ALREADY ACKNOWLEDGED AND/OR PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED. THE ADVERTISER ASSUMES SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN SUBMITTED COPY AND WILL PROTECT AND INDEMNIFY THE OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGZINETM, ITS OWNERS, PUBLISHERS, AND EMPLOYEES AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, LOSS OR EXPENSE ARISING OUT OF CLAIMS FOR LIBEL, UNFAIR TRADE NAMES, PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS AND PROPRIETY RIGHTS, AND ALL VIOLATIONS OF THE RIGHT OF PRIVACY OR OTHER VIOLATIONS RESULTING FROM THE PUBLICATION BY THIS MAGAZINE OF ITS ADVERTISING COPY. PUBLISHER SHALL BE UNDER NO LIABILITY FOR FAILURE, FOR ANY REASON, TO INSERT AN ADVERTISEMENT. PUBLISHER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE BY REASON OF ERROR, OMISSION AND/OR FAILURE TO INSERT ANY PART OF AN ADVERTISEMENT. PUBLISHER WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DELAY OR FAILURE IN PERFORMANCE IN PUBLICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF ALL OR ANY PORTION OF AN ISSUE IS DELAYED OR SUSPENDED FOR ANY REASON. THE PUBLISHER WILL EXERCISE REASONABLE JUDGMENT IN THESE INSTANCES AND WILL MAKE ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE ADVERTISER WHERE AND WHEN APPROPRIATE. OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGZINETM ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIAL OR REPRODUCTIONS MADE BY ADVERTISERS. THIS MAGAZINE WILL BE PUBLISHED BY THE 15TH OF EVERY OTHER MONTH. THE OPINIONS OF OUR AUTHORS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM, OUR PUBLISHER, OUR EDITORIAL TEAM AND/OR OUR ADVISORY BOARD. THE AUTHORS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF THEIR SUBMITTED MATERIAL.
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HEALTH MOST OF US HAVE ADAPTED TO THE HEAT IN FLORIDA DURING SUMMERTIME, BUT ARE YOU PREPARED?
Here are some helpful tips:
Shopping? Try to park in the shade
Take cool showers or baths
Avoid caffeine and alcoholthese will make you dehydrated
BEAT the HEAT
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Long Hair? Girl, throw it up in a messy bun
By staying cool
Stock up on popsiclesat work & home
KtNhOeW SIGNS
Wear loose-fitting clothing and don’t forget your shades
DEHYDRATION
• Increased Thirst • Headache • Dry Mouth • Fatigue • Disorientation • Dizziness
Eat salads and fresh fruits that contain water
Stock up on bottles of water
HEAT EXHAUSTION • Weakness • Heavy Sweating • Muscle Cramping • Thirst • Rapid Pulse • Fatigue • Fainting
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HEALTH
PROTECTING KIDS FROM HEAT ILLNESS
Active kids can be at risk for heat illness, which can result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Learn how to prevent and treat heat illness Gently stretching and massaging cramped muscles also may help. HEAT EXHAUSTION Heat exhaustion is a more severe heat illness that can occur when someone in a hot climate or environment hasn't been drinking enough fluids. Our bodies create a tremendous amount of heat. Normally, they're cooled through sweating and by heat radiating through the skin. But in very hot weather, high humidity and other conditions, this natural cooling system may begin to fail, letting heat in the body build to dangerous levels. This can cause heat illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke. HEAT CRAMPS Heat cramps are brief, painful muscle cramps in the legs, arms or abdomen that may occur during or after vigorous exercise in extreme heat. The sweating that occurs
with intense physical activity causes the body to lose salts and fluids. This low level of salts causes the muscles to cramp. Kids are particularly at risk for heat cramps when they aren't drinking enough fluids. Although painful, heat cramps on their own aren't serious. But cramps can be the first sign of more serious heat illness, so they should be treated right away to help avoid any problems. What to do: A cool place, rest and fluids should ease a child's discomfort. If possible, give fluids that contain salt and sugar, such as sports drinks.
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Symptoms can include: •increased thirst •weakness •fainting •muscle cramps •nausea and/ or vomiting •irritability •headache •increase sweating •cool, clammy skin •elevation of body temperature, but less than 104°F (40°C) What to do: •Bring your child to a cooler place indoors, an air-conditioned car or shady area. •Remove your child's excess clothing. •Encourage your child to drink cool fluids containing salt and sugar, such as sports drinks.
•Put a cool, wet cloth or cool water on your child's skin. •Call your doctor for advice. If your child is too exhausted or ill to drink, treatment with intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke, which can be fatal. HEATSTROKE The most severe form of heat illness is heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency. In heatstroke, the body cannot regulate its own temperature. Body temperature can soar to 106°F (41.1°C) or even higher, leading to brain damage or even death if it isn't quickly treated. Prompt medical treatment is required to bring the body temperature under control. Factors that increase the risk for heatstroke include overdressing and extreme physical activity in hot weather
with inadequate fluid intake. Heatstroke also can happen when a child is left in, or becomes accidentally trapped in, a car on a hot day. When the outside temperature is 93°F (33.9°C), the temperature inside a car can reach 125°F (51.7°C) in just 20 minutes, quickly raising body temperature to dangerous levels. What to do: Call for emergency medical help if your child has been outside in extreme temperatures or another hot environment and shows one or more of these symptoms of heatstroke: •severe headache •weakness, dizziness •confusion •nausea •rapid breathing and heartbeat •loss of consciousness •seizure •no sweating •flushed, hot, dry skin •temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher
While waiting for help: •Get your child indoors or into the shade. •Undress your child and sponge or douse him or her with cool water. •Do not give fluids unless your child is awake, alert and acting normally.
AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION To help protect kids from heat illness: •Teach kids to always drink plenty of fluids before and during activity in hot, sunny weather — even if they're not thirsty. •Make sure kids wear light-colored, loose clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors. •On hot or humid days, make sure your kids only participate in heavy activity outdoors before noon and after 6 p.m. •Teach kids to come indoors, rest, and hydrate immediately whenever they feel overheated.
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JULY/AUGUST 2017
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HEALTH
ARE YOUR KIDS SKIN-READY FOR SCHOOL? | By Michael Steppie, MD |
It’s that special time of year. Time for parents and their children to start trading pool floats for pencils, summer camps for classrooms, and picnics for packed lunches. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep you and your family’s skin healthy and ready for this school year: • Check your family’s skin products. If anyone has sensitive skin or a history of eczema, this is
even more important. Look for the word “hypoallergenic” on all soaps, lotions and detergents. This term means the product is free of irritating dyes, fragrances and substances that may cause an allergic reaction. • Don’t forget the sunscreen! Summer may be coming to an end, but remember to keep your children
protected with a “broad spectrum” sunscreen SPF of 30 or higher. • Tame acne. Most of us remember high school and the growing pains of self-confidence. Add acne to the mix, and you might have an emotional teenager on your hands. Avoid being influenced by highly advertised brands and visit a dermatologist
to prescribe the most suitable acne treatment. So, while kids enjoy the last few days of summer freedom, keep their skin in mind. An ounce of prevention — and sunscreen — goes a long way. Over-thecounter tips, tricks and old wives remedies can treat many skin conditions; however, know when to seek professional advice, and keep your family’s skin healthy for all the seasons to come.
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JULY/AUGUST 2017
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life &
WORK
In July, communities everywhere celebrate our nation’s independence with fireworks, family, and friends. A strong community also creates independence as we help each other recognize our full potential. Social Security has been helping people maintain a higher quality of life and a level of independence for over 80 years. And Medicare has been doing the same for over five decades. Most people first become eligible for Medicare at age 65. For many older Americans, this is their primary health insurance and without it, they might not enjoy an independent lifestyle. Medicare can be a little confusing to newcomers so we’ve broken it down into segments. The four parts of Medicare are as easy as A, B, C, and D. • Part A (Hospital Insurance) helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and home health care. Most people get Medicare Part A premium-free since it is earned by working and paying Social Security taxes. • Part B (Medical Insurance) helps cover services from doctors and other outpatient health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services. Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B. Some high-income individuals pay more than the standard premium. If you don’t enroll in Medicare Part B during your initial enrollment period and then decide to do so later, your coverage may be delayed and you may have to pay a higher monthly premium for as long as you have Part B. • Part C (Medicare Advantage) allows you to choose to receive all of your health care services through a provider organization. This plan includes all benefits and services covered under Part A and Part B, usually includes Medicare prescription drug coverage, and may include extra benefits and services at an extra cost. You must have Part A and Part B to enroll in Part C.
SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE ARE LASTING SOURCES OF
Independence | By Blanca Taylor |
Monthly premiums vary depending on the state where you live, private insurer, and whether you select a health maintenance organization or a preferred provider organization. • Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Many people pay a premium for Part D. However, people with low income and resources may qualify for Extra Help to pay the premium and deductible. If you don’t enroll in a Medicare drug plan when you’re first eligible, you may pay a late enrollment penalty if you join a plan later. You will have to pay this penalty for as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. To see if you qualify for extra help visit www. socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp.
Will you be age 65 soon? Even if you decide not to retire, you should apply for Medicare. You can apply in less than 10 minutes using our online Medicare application. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/medicare to learn more about applying for Medicare.
14 osceolawoman.com | JULY/AUGUST 2017
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life &
WORK
In my recent article, “Endocrinology of Dogs and Cats” I promised to address the newer treatment options for pet allergies. This is an appropriate time of the year to discuss allergies because we are in the peak summer months for pet allergies. The primary symptoms/ clinical signs of canine allergy are itching, hair loss, and secondary infections. In about 30% of these cases, food allergy is at least part of the cause but the primary causes are environmental factors. Summer months produce the most allergens including pollens, plant juices, external parasites and other outdoor hazards. So, we see a lot more allergies in the summer. Cats also are affected by food allergies and environmental factors but flea bite allergy remains the primary cause of skin allergies with cats. Until recently, corticosteroid therapy was often needed for pet allergies, and as I indicated last issue, the continued long-term use of prednisone and prednisolone are not good for the patient’s long-term health. Fortunately, we now have Apoquel tablets for dogs. These tablets are usually very effective in reducing itching and preventing secondary skin infections. We usually begin with a twice daily dose for two weeks and then reduce to once daily administration. Alternatively, we now have an injection called Cytopoint which can give relief of itching for one to two months. Prednisolone remains our most effective anti-itch therapy for cats but fortunately cats are much better able to tolerate long term use. The second summer time topic I will address is Canine Influenza Virus (CIV). There have been reports of CIV infection in Florida this summer but fortunately we have not diagnosed it in our practices as I write for this issue of OWM. Influenza is highly contagious, can be spread through the air for several feet and is most likely contracted in a kennel, groomer, dog show, or dog park situations. The symptoms of sneezing, coughing, lethargy and fever can persist for 2-4 weeks and the patient can be contagious to other dogs for even longer. About 20% of CIV cases can progress to pneumonia. We recommend vaccinations for all dogs
SUMMER TOPICS | By Dr. Gary A. Borgman |
at risk of exposure through the above-mentioned situations. The vaccination is given by injection and repeated in 2-4 weeks. Full immunity protection against the virus develops 1-2 weeks after the second immunization injection. The third topic to emphasize as a “summer time concern” is avoiding situations which can create overheating of pets. Hyperthermia can quickly develop if a pet is left in a car in the sun with the windows up. In only a few minutes the inside temperature can become dangerously hot with fatal results. Another dangerous situation is vigorous exercise of pets during the hottest hours of the day. I recall one particular case which occurred about 3:00 pm. The owner had a habit of jogging at this time of day with his Pit Bull dog. The patient collapsed during this brief exercise and was carried into my office with a body temperature over 107 degrees. It was
too late. Humans perspire to help keep cool. Dogs cannot perspire. There only means of keeping cool is to pant. The evaporation of moisture through this rapid respiration is not very efficient and dogs can quickly become overheated with exercise. It is not uncommon for an excited healthy and normal panting dog to present to our office on a hot day with a temperature of 103 to 104 degrees. Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101.5 to 102.5. A body temperature in excess of 103 is cause for concern and 104 or more is cause for alarm. Cats can tolerate higher environmental temperatures better than dogs but a panting cat with open mouth breathing is an emergency situation. We do not see cats with hyperthermia from exercise because cats do not jog with their owners. Open mouth breathing of cats is usually a cardiac or pulmonary problem. We need x-ray examination to determine the cause of feline difficult breathing.
The veterinarians and staff of Kissimmee Animal Hospital (407-846-3912) and Poinciana Pet Clinic (407-518-0880) are available to answer any pet health questions. We are here to help and to serve!
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We’re getting close to the Fourth of July, when we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy in this country. The U.S. constitution grants us many of these liberties, but we have to earn others – such as our financial freedom. What steps can you take to achieve the financial independence you need to reach your long-term goals? For starters, always work to build your resources. Contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. At a minimum, put in enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. If you don’t take advantage of this match, you are essentially leaving money on the table. While how much you invest is an essential factor in
gaining your financial freedom, how you invest your money is equally important. So, make sure you have sufficient growth potential in all your accounts. While growth-oriented investments, such as stocks and stockbased vehicles, carry investment risk, you can help moderate this risk by also including other investments, such as bonds. Another way to gain your financial independence is to liberate yourself from the shackles of debt. This isn’t always easy, of course – most of us have experienced times when our cash flow simply wasn’t sufficient to meet our expenses, so we had to take on some type of debt, either through a credit card or a loan. But the more you can control your debts, the more money you’ll have to save and invest for your future. One way to manage your debt load is to build an emergency fund, containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, which you can use to pay unexpected costs such as a major car repair or a large medical
DECLARE
YOUR
Financial
INDEPEND
ENCE DAY
| Cleve Griss
bill. Ideally, you should keep this money in a liquid, low-risk account, so you can access the funds quickly and without penalty. Aside from possibly helping you control your debts, an emergency fund also may enable you to avoid dipping into your longterm investments to pay for short-term needs. Thus far, we’ve only discussed achieving your financial freedom through methods of saving and investing. But you also need to consider your protection needs, too. If you were to become ill or suffer a serious injury, and you could not work for a while, your financial security could be jeopardized. Your employer might offer you disability insurance as an employee benefit, but it may not be enough for your needs, so you might need to purchase some additional coverage
om |
on your own. And to help ensure your family’s financial security, you’ll also need sufficient life insurance. You also might want to protect yourself from the catastrophic costs of long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay. The average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home is more than $92,000, according to the 2016 Cost of Care Study issued by the insurance company Genworth. And Medicare generally covers only a small percentage of these expenses. You may want to consult with a financial professional to learn about ways you can protect yourself from the long-term care burden. By following these suggestions, you can go a long way toward declaring your own financial independence. Consider taking action soon.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. For more information on investing your money please contact Cleve Grissom at 407-891-7833.
JULY/AUGUST 2017
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17
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Women IN LAW ENFORCEMENT | By Charlie Reed |
For this issue of OWM we spoke with five law enforcement officers who hold key positions in public safety and have some of the toughest jobs in Osceola County.
M
artha Gens is the first female Chief Deputy at the Osceola County Sheriff ’s Office and Sergeant Kris Brewer is the first woman to head its aviation unit. Both officers helped mentor Deputy Ashley Sobiech, a former K-9 operator now on the Community Response Team. Corporal Shannon Dore is only the second woman SWAT operator at the Kissimmee Police Department. Her older sister Tia Lawson, who helped support Dore while she attended the Kissimmee Police Academy, is a School Resource Officer for the St. Cloud Police Department. Collectively, these five women represent law 20 osceolawoman.com | JULY/AUGUST 2017
enforcement operations in Osceola County on the roads, in the skies, at the schools and on the front lines. We asked them about their careers fighting crime, what makes them tick and their thoughts on working in a maledominated field. Women represent only 13 percent of total sworn law enforcement officers in the country, most of them in larger departments, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Despite federal antidiscrimination laws and policies that have been enacted since the 1970s when women represented only 2 percent of the force, gender inequality persists,
according to the department’s national Community Oriented Policing Services, or COPS, which works with local, state, federal, territorial and tribal agencies. Women in law enforcement are often inexplicably resented, harassed and held back, according to COPS. The “brass ceiling” is another obstacle for some women unable to rise to supervisory positions despite their qualifications. While the number of women in uniform and in leadership positions are on the rise, it’s still no easy task considering there are only 219 female chiefs in the 14,000 local law enforcement departments nationwide.
Chief Deputy Martha Gens
The Matron Saints
T
he history of women in law enforcement in the U.S. dates back to the late-19th and early-20th centuries. In 1845, the first women hired by the New York City Police Department were called "matrons." In 1891 Marie Owens , who joined the Chicago Police department, was one of the first official female police officers. Slightly less than 100 years later in 1985, Penny Harrington of the Portland Oregon Police Department became the nation’s first women to lead a major police department. The local law enforcement officers we interviewed talked about both the support and the resistance they’ve experienced from their own colleagues, friends and families. They do dangerous jobs to help keep Osceola County safe and also defy lingering stereotypes. In many cases, their perceived weaknesses for the job have turned out to be their greatest strengths as officers of the law.
Breaking Through The “Brass Ceiling”
O
sceola County has yet to see its first woman as top cop, but Chief Deputy Martha Gens is narrowing the gap as second in command. She was appointed by newly elected Sheriff Russ Gibson when he took office earlier this year. Gens, 52, has worked for the Sheriff ’s Office more than 30 years, starting her career as a dispatcher while attending the police academy.
“When I started they hadn’t even introduced 9-1-1,” said Gens, whose love of law enforcement sprung from answering distress calls in those early days. She remembers the first call that motivated her decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. It came from an 11-year-old girl hiding in a closet. Her parents were fighting at home. Her dad had an ax and was breaking down a door. “I could hear it all going on,” said Gens, who sent help to the terrified child. “That’s when everything changed. I was hooked.” The domestic violence she experienced in her own home growing up in Osceola County resonated. “It was a helpless feeling when I was talking to the little girl. I wanted to be there. That’s what I grew up with,” Gens said. “I also looked out for my little sisters then and knew I had the instincts to help people in situations like that.” She graduated from the police academy and worked as a reserve officer while waiting for a full-time position to open. The gender gap in law enforcement was even more prevalent in the late 80s and early 90s when Gens was a rookie. When people doubted her ability to the do the job it only strengthened her resolve, she said. “No one was going to tell me I couldn’t do it,” she said. Her hard work and persistence paid off in December 1991 when she got calls from the sheriff ’s office in Orange and
Osceola counties on the same day offering her a deputy position. She chose her home turf, mostly for the growth opportunities it presented. Gens, who like most all local law enforcement officers, began her career on patrol. She has worked in nearly every section of the Sheriff ’s Office including homicide, sex crimes, forensics and other investigative and training units, often at the request of the Sheriff and other administrators. Gens earned the rank of sergeant in 1997 and moved into supervisory roles at and above her rank when called upon. She went on to lead the department’s K-9 unit and passed the lieutenant’s exam in 2013. She also beat cancer along the way -- twice. Her resilience, both personally and professionally, defines Gens and exemplifies the mental fortitude required for the job. “I’ve been proving myself as a law enforcement officer, especially as a female, since I got here and that hasn’t stopped,” she said. Gens remembers confronting a male colleague who challenged her fitness for duty based on her gender. “He was a big guy and
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Sgt. Kris Brewer
Helicopters, Police Dogs and "The Trial of the Century”
S
he saw me as a petite female and questioned how I could ever help him strength wise,” Gens said. “I told him: ‘Look, when you’re on the other side of a six-foot fence in a fight, I’m going to be over that fence and in that fight with you and give you all that I have. I know male deputies here that couldn’t do that. I can and I will. I just want a chance.’ We didn’t have an issue after that.” That exchange with her colleague is the kind of communicative approach to problems that often gives female officers an advantage in the field. They are able to deescalate a violent or tense situation by being more approachable to victims, suspects and the general public. “Men are stronger than women, that’s just a fact. But the whole goal
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gt. Kris Brewer leads the Sheriff ’s Office Aviation Unit at Kissimmee Gateway Airport. She climbed the ranks with Gens. Brewer is also the first woman in her position. She’s been is to not have to use force with the department 23 years and has broken and women are generally through two “brass better at that.” And when barriers,” one by working it comes to interacting in the helicopter unit with victims, even the she commands and the tone of a female officer’s other by serving in one voice can instantly of the most high-profile provide relief, especially criminal cases in modern history. for children, Gens said. In her previous Even now, as the second position with the highest-ranking local K-9 Unit, Brewer, 46, law enforcement officer introduced and handled in the county, there are its first cadaver dog, a those who question her highly trained German rise even after more than shepherd aptly named 30 dedicated years. But Bones. Brewer and Bones now that she oversees worked the Caylee and day-to-day operations at Casey Anthony case in the Sheriff ’s Department. 2008 and 2009, both investigating the little Gens doesn’t have the girl’s disappearance and time or inclination to feed such negativity. She testifying in the mother’s chalks it up to character first-degree murder trial. It was among the building like she did most frustrating cases as a rookie. Only these of Brewer’s career. days Gens has the bona Not because of the fides and the authority to circumstances of the change law enforcement case or the media circus culture while doing around it, but because she her job to keep the and Bones were not the community safe. ones to discover Caylee
Anthony’s remains. A civilian stumbled upon the body within the vicinity they had scoured for weeks. “I felt stupid and defeated,” Brewer said. But, like her career in law enforcement, she learned that with failures come lessons. “Difficult and complex cases don’t always work out the way you want them to,” Brewer said. “You have to be willing to really examine your faults before you improve, and that’s not always easy.” After the Anthony investigation, Brewer learned to trust her instincts in a new way. She went on to testify at the televised trial a year later. It was covered 24/7 on local and national news and has since been the stuff of documentaries, case files, case law and real-life crime books. “Nancy Grace was like calling me every day,” she said. Brewer took her “two weeks of fame” with a grain of salt. The pressure was higher than usual but the stakes were the same. Still, she remembers hearing about how many in the department tuned in to watch her hour-plus testimony. In recounting the law enforcement science and records that backed up
Deputy Ashley Sobiech her investigation, Brewer established herself as an expert witness. She and Bones also began assisting in missing persons and homicide investigations outside Florida because of their high-demand expertise in recovering human remains. After the Anthony case concluded, Brewer didn’t stay put in K-9. Instead she got a commercial fixed wing pilot’s license and later a commercial helicopter pilot’s license, an investment of thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours of time. “I broke out my credit card and took a gamble,” Brewer said. She wasn’t learning to fly simply to satisfy a whim; she was taking a calculated step in hopes of joining the aviation unit. Attrition is lower and salaries are higher on aviation law enforcement units. She thought the chances of getting a job in Osceola were slim -but possible. She finished her flight training on her own time and almost instantly a supervisor position opened. Brewer snapped it up. “There was eye-rolling” from a few members of the unit when she took charge, she said. “Trying to earn the respect of pilots who’ve been flying for 20 years wasn’t easy. But
I had all the support in the world from the administration.” Brewer has cultivated a crew of aviators, mechanics and operators that both support and respect her. Both an administrator and a pilot, she has become a wellrespected aviation chief in Central Florida. The most annoying attempt to undercut her value on the unit, she said, came when a civilian was visiting the hangar. She still remembers his British accent. “Do they ever let you take the sticks, love,” Brewer recalls him asking with a wry smile. Most of the time she tells people she “works for the Sheriff ’s Office” when asked about her job. But that day she didn’t mind telling the Briton exactly what she does. She flies often. She also manages the unit, controls its multimillion dollar budget and is personally responsible for her crew and for millions of dollars’ worth of helicopters and tactical equipment. The exchange is famous around the hangar and exemplifies the way Brewer has handled sexist remarks over the years. She lets them roll off her back and lets her record speak for itself. “I feel my success far outweighs anyone’s opinion.”
The Next Generation
program helped focus her energy, she said. “I’m high speed, low drag. For Deputy Ashley Plus, I have the voice to Sobiech , 28, Brewer and either be a band teacher Gens are everyday role or a cop. I chose cop.” models. “They paved a Sobiech, now on the lot of the way for females Community Response in the department. But Team unit, is a former they’re also just good,” K-9 operator who misses said Sobiech, who’s been that unit but changed with the department positions to hone other seven years. She moved to investigative skills. Central Florida from her “Females do get hometown of Sarasota in more crap just because 2007 to join the Sheriff ’s of their gender. But Office volunteer Police gender doesn’t dictate Explorer program, which whether you’re a good trains youth and young law enforcement officer adults for jobs in law or not. A sergeant who enforcement up to age 21. sucks is a sergeant who She also worked sucks; it doesn’t matter if and attended college they’re male or female.” classes until the Sheriff ’s Sobiech said she owes Department said it would much of her success as a pay for her to attend young deputy to Gens, the Kissimmee Police who has pushed her not Academy. “It was a dream only to be better but to be come true,” said Sobiech, exemplary. “I remember who once thought about Chief Gens pushing me a career teaching music. when I was in K-9 with But law enforcement her. She said ‘I can’t make suited her personality you have heart.’ I would and spending most of not be the cop I am today her teens in the Explorer without her.”
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Cpl. Shannon Dore
“Sweat in the gym is better than blood on the street” Sheer heart is how Cpl. Shannon Dore makes up for what she might lack in physical strength when compared to her male counterparts. But both courage and force count for Dore, especially as a member of the SWAT unit. She is only the second woman in KPD history to be invited to join. A strength and fitness fanatic, Dore, 26, has hit the gym with the best on the force since she joined. It’s how she got interested in SWAT. There’s a quote on the wall at KPD that Dore internalized shortly after becoming a sworn officer that says: “Sweat in the gym is better than blood on the street.” It’s a motto she takes seriously. It was her colleagues in the gym -- some from SWAT -- who encouraged her to apply. “I want to be physically fit for my brothers and sisters in uniform so I go to the gym. I want to come home safely and I want them to come home safely so it’s always been really important to me.”
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SWAT is a parttime, always-on-call position at KPD, where Dore has earned a reputation for her hard work, impressive tactical skills and natural abilities. Sure, she’s smaller than most of the men on the unit, which includes Cpl. Whitney Karlskin, the third female officer to join SWAT. But Dore’s strength and agility combined with her stature define her specialty on the elite team: breaching attics. “I’m not the one knocking down doors. I’m not the first one in,” she said. But getting into small spaces and being the first officer inside is where Dore excels. Everybody has an important role when it comes to the highly specialized tactical operations carried out by SWAT. Dore said serving with the “top of the top” on SWAT inspires her career and her day-to-day work in street crimes. It’s been four years since she tried out for SWAT, a mentally and physically grueling 12-hour exam sprung on applicants without prior knowledge following a regular 12-hour shift. The process includes hardcore obstacle courses and other fitness and stress tests, precision shooting exercises and in-depth interviews. The competition is tough and the officer-hopefuls are all evaluated at the same time. “It’s extremely high pressure. When I made it I was speechless; I even cried. Then I was like ‘hell yeah!’”
From the moment she joined the force after high school to the time she applied to SWAT, Dore has encountered her share of those who said she couldn’t or wouldn’t make it because of her gender. Her simple but powerful response: “I’ll show you.” Dore said she was humbled to make it and would have still been satisfied with her effort has she not. “I gave it my all. I couldn’t imagine I didn’t prove myself.” Mental fortitude is key to law enforcement and that’s where women excel, said Dore, who as part of the SWAT team now decides who gets in and who doesn’t when positions open up. “We accept people on the team who we know aren’t going to quit on us. People who have the physical and mental endurance we need.” Showing courage and tenacity, especially when under pressure, is not gender-specific. But female officers tend to connect with children, victims and even irate suspects in a different way than men, which is particularly helpful in calming tense situations and preventing bad ones from becoming worse, Dore said. She has a powerful but friendly presence that projects both her inner and outer strength. But the St. Cloud native who owns three horses is also known for her compassion. In March, she and Kissimmee Fire Chief Jim Walls helped recruit first responders for a head-shaving event that raised thousands for pediatric cancer research.
Officer Tia Lawson
Protect and Inspire Heart and determination run in the family, said Dore, whose her sister Tia Lawson supported her while she was in the academy. The sisters are each other’s closest confidant, both in and out of the field. “I’m so proud of Shannon. Look at her now. I’m like a proud mom.” Lawson, 31, was already an officer at the St. Cloud Police Department when her little sister decided to follow in her footsteps. They both joined the force shortly after graduating high school. Now the mother of two children under age five, Lawson transferred from the field to the classroom shortly after her first child was born. “The cool thing is that I was inspired to go into law enforcement by my SRO (short for School Resource Officer) when I was a kid,” said Lawson, who is stationed at St. Cloud Middle School. “I didn’t know if it was going to work out because I loved being on the road. But I love my job now. I’m definitely staying.”
Adolescence can be a tough time for kids, their parents and the educators responsible for them during the school day. It’s also why Lawson wanted the SRO job, which can be more frustrating and potentially more dangerous than her days on patrol. Like SROs around the country, Lawson trains for active-shooter events and is responsible for general safety but also welfare checks, truancy, physical and sexual abuse, campus fights, morning and afternoon traffic. Her tactical approach with students centers on kindness; she’s firm but friendly. “I want the kids to know cops are here to help them. We’ll play with them and want to keep them safe,” she said. Budding teenagers can be particularly willful and mischievous. However even when kids are involved in more serious criminal offenses, Lawson believes in their potential to change. She also helps them believe in themselves. “You get in trouble as a kid but it doesn’t have to define the rest of your life. I’m more of an inspiration than a disciplinarian,” she said.
“I have an open-door policy and students know they can talk to me about anything going on at school or at home or anywhere. Some trust me more than the school counselor.” Lawson regularly buys school supplies, sneakers and other personal items for students in need. “I can’t help but spend money on those kids. I just want to take them all in sometimes.” Her approach to law enforcement has evolved from her early days on the police force. She was more feisty and aggressive when it wasn’t always necessary back then, mostly an effort to compensate for her small stature, she said.
But what she lacks in physical size she makes up for with solid investigation skills, analysis and approachability after more than a decade in law enforcement. “It helps to be a woman in a lot of cases” said Lawson, who like all the women we profiled for this piece endured doubts about their fitness for duty. “There were a lot of male cops who thought I shouldn’t be here until they saw I could hold my own, I could do the job and that I wasn’t going anywhere.”
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COMMUNITY COMMUNITY & PLAY
| By Victoria Quednau |
HIGHLIGHTS
Stepping right off the plane from Europe and right back into the salon, the stylists at Victor Russell are bursting with new ideas. I spent time in beautiful Italy at Paul Mitchell's last hair show learning new color and cutting techniques from some of the best stylist around the world. Attending both look &
learn classes and hands on classes I hope you're all willing to try something new! Post hair show I was lucky enough to live as a local roman for a couple of days. As fashion forward as Europe is I also brought back some of the latest fashion trends, a whole extra suit case to be exact!
THIS SUMMER IS
ALL ABOUT
Short Styles
UR STRONG O Y F F O G IN W O H S SIDE. A N D P OW E R F U L
We all love our long hair, giving you a lot of options when it comes to styling day in and day out. However, this summer is all about short styles, showing off your strong and powerful side. We love a good pixie cut but the bob is what it’s all about in 2017, being called the haircut of the year. Mostly known to be compared with women in rebellious states from years before even 1920, history is repeating itself. Rock this short bob with bangs like Stella Hudgens and Karlie Kloss if you dare. If you're not willing to go that bold yet it's okay, we'll do what works best for you.
And on top of all this exciting news – it is summer! Time to soak up that sunshine, and float in the pool. But don't just play in the sand this summer, play with your hair! Add some peek - a - boo fun colors in your hair to show off your spunky side. Whatever your favorite color is we have it all, especially since Paul Mitchell launched new colors at the hair show. Don't worry though, it's semi permeate so it will wash out within a few weeks. If you plan
on spending a lot of time in the pool this summer don't forget your sunblock! But your skin isn't the only thing that needs love. Throwing some conditioner in your hair before you float in the pool will help avoid chlorine build up on your hair. If you’re a salt water lover, invest on some clarifying shampoo. We have some for you at Victor Russell that's color safe and will help
with any build up on your hair. No matter how careful you are it's bound to happen a little. Extra deep conditioning in the summer time is also a good idea, that sun dries out your hair more than you think it does! Marula Oil is our favorite for intense hydration to keep your locks soft and shiny all year long!
Hairstyles, haircare tips & tricks, fashion news and much more monthly from the stylists at Victor Russell Salon. A full service, Paul Mitchell Focus Salon located at 105 East 13th street in St. Cloud Florida 34769.
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RECIPES WATERMELON, BLUEBERRY, & FETA SALAD
COMMUNITY YTIN U&MPLAY MOC
PREP TIME: 20 MINUTES | TOTAL TIME: 20 MINUTES | 6-8 SERVINGS
Sweet and juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with salty feta cheese! Blueberries add an extra bite of sweetness and a pop of color. Drizzle the whole thing with honey lime vinaigrette and enjoy your refreshing Watermelon, Blueberry and Feta Salad!
Ingredients
• 6 c. cubed watermelon • 2 c. fresh blueberries • 1 c. feta cheese, crumbled • 2 T. fresh mint, or basil, chiffonade • 2 T. fresh lime juice • 1 T. fresh lemon juice • 3 T. olive oil • 1 T. honey • Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Add cubed watermelon, blueberries, feta, and mint (or basil) to a large bowl. 2. In a separate small bowl, add lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk until blended. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
Over 10
3. Just before serving toss fruit and cheese together. Drizzle with dressing and toss again to coat fruit with dressing. Serve immediately.
YEARS Experience
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COMMUNITY COMMUNITY & PLAY
CREAMSICLE PIE PREP TIME: 25 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 35 MINUTES | MAKES 1 (9-INCH) PIE
Ingredients
• 1½ cups vanilla wafer crumbs • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk • 5 large egg yolks • 1 teaspoon orange zest • ½ cup fresh orange juice • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice • Sweetened whipped cream or thawed frozen whipped topping • Garnish: orange zest, orange slice
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. In a medium bowl, stir together wafer crumbs and melted butter. Firmly press mixture into bottom and up sides of a 9-inch pie plate. 3. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until center has set. Let pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until chilled. Top pie with whipped cream, and garnish with zest and orange slice, if desired.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together condensed milk and next 4 ingredients until smooth. Pour into cooled crust.
DELICIOUS PORK TERIYAKI KABOBS PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 8 MINUTES
Ingredients • 1/2 cup soy sauce • 1/4 cup water • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 2 teaspoons brown sugar • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-1/4-inch cubes • 1 large fresh pineapple, cut into 1-1/4- inch cubes
Instructions 1. In a bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Pour half into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass container. Refrigerate the remaining marinade for basting. Add pork to bag or container and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1-4 hours. 2. Drain and discard marinade. On four metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternate pork and pineapple. Grill, uncovered, over
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medium-hot heat for 3 minutes on each side. Baste with reserved marinade. Continue basting and turning kabobs for 4-6 minutes or until meat juices run clear. Yield: 4 servings (1 cup marinade).
COMMUNITY YTIN U&MPLAY MOC
GALA PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE 'VOICES OF OSCEOLA'S CHILDREN' There are 500 children in Osceola County who face legal problems so challenging and lifechanging that they require an attorney. Each one has been assigned a public legal representative to advocate for them. Both in and out of court. It’s known as the Florida Guardian ad Litem Program, and before it was created all these kids -many abused, abandoned and neglected by their own parents -- went to court alone. Now these minors get an attorney and case manager to represent their best interests in dependency court proceedings, which determines where and with whom they live. Guardian ad Litem, often abbreviated GAL, came to Osceola in 1991
and has grown rapidly along with the county’s population. The same is true across Florida. So far in 2017, there are more than 30,000 children represented through GAL statewide. The program relies not only on state funding but also a strong corps of dedicated volunteers. Private donations help supply the children’s personal needs, education and development. Voices for Osceola’s Children is the nonprofit fundraising arm of the local GAL program, headquartered at the Osceola County Historical Courthouse in downtown Kissimmee. Last year saw record donations from a one-night gala event that brought in $30,000. “We didn’t know it was going to be
that successful. But it was such a blessing, we can do so much more now,” said Vanessa Bauknight, a St. Cloud native who started with Osceola GAL as an intern in college more than 15 years ago. Now a Child Advocate Manager, Bauknight works closely with fellow staff member Gem Micheo, a GAL volunteer recruiter who helps manage and train the program’s 200 volunteers, some assigned to more than one child. The crux of the program centers on giving the child a voice in court. Parents are represented by an attorney who looks out for their interests, social workers determine the best interest of the family, leaving Guardian ad Litems to legally advocate for individual minors’ rights.
Vanessa Bauknight, Child Advocate Manager, Brittany Rutan, Supervising Program Attorney Gem Micheo, Volunteer Recruitment & Media Coordinator
Much more complex and time-consuming than occasional volunteer work, GAL requires volunteers to attend special training to deal with kids in crisis, and a minimum weekly commitment to work with an individual child to check with their general wellbeing -- from identifying specific material needs to providing emotional support. “It’s a lot. This isn’t a volunteer job for everyone. It’s not easy but it’s rewarding” said Micheo, who started with GAL more than six years ago as a volunteer advocate and now works on its small staff of advocates, attorneys and administrators. “I wouldn’t ask anyone to do what I couldn’t do working full-time.” Many of the children coming through GAL are in foster care, and their futures often remain in jeopardy even after their cases have been settled in court. “It can be really frustrating and it just breaks your heart sometimes to see these poor kids and what they’re going through,” Bauknight said. “It’s not like serving in a soup kitchen where you get instant gratification from helping someone in the moment. It’s heavy stuff and a lot of work and the courts don’t always rule the way we would like,” said Micheo.
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COMMUNITY COMMUNITY & PLAY But Guardian ad Litem is so respected by judges that its unpaid volunteers are considered as credible as paid social workers, said Micheo. Along with the first-class advocacy and personal attention GAL staff and volunteers provide children, there is now more money to help them financially. The huge fund the program now has thanks to the Voices for Osceola’s Children “GALa” event last year is going a long way to provide material items the kids would have gone without otherwise. The next one will be held Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Marriott Grand
OUR CH IL DRE N NE E D YO U couldn’t get it for them. to former GAL system, so this is like NOW MOfoster RE THAN toclients. Eretirees VE R! Now I love finding out We get the word a reunion for them in a when my kids need stuff.” GAL Osceola also works with community partners throughout the year for fundraisers, events and outreach. The local chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors recently held
There are 500 children in Osceola County who face legal problems so challenging and lifechanging that they require an attorney. World Center with tickets available for individuals and corporate tables. The $30,000 raised at the 2016 event has helped provide much-needed items -- from sneakers to reading tutors -- for the 500 vulnerable children currently represented by Osceola GAL. “It’s so nice to not have to worry as much about where we’ll get the money for things like that. We didn’t have that before,” said Bauknight. Micheo agrees. “It used to be so frustrating sometimes when a child needed something and we
a suitcase drive to help children in GAL, who often bounce from home to home within the foster system. “Most of the time these kids leave their homes with their stuff in garbage bags. So even a suitcase is something that many of us take for granted but that these kids need,” Bauknight said. Each year GAL brings together foster kids from all over Osceola to enjoy a day of mini-golf and other family activities. “A lot of these kids are brothers and sisters who’ve been split up in the
way,” Bauknight said. “We have great support from the community and our program is well known,” Bauknight said. “But we can always use more support.” Right now, while all 500 children represented by Osceola GAL, have an attorney and case manager, only 350 have been assigned a volunteer because there aren’t enough to go around. “We’d love if another 150 volunteers just walked in the door. We’d take ‘em,” said Bauknight. However, just talking about the Guardian ad Litem Program helps, said Micheo. “Our volunteers come from all walks of life -- from working parents
out so that if you hear about it but can’t commit to volunteering you might someone who can,” she said. “It’s tough but rewarding work,” Micheo said. “But I do it because I think about the positive impact I can have in someone’s life. Plus, if we don’t do it, who will?” *Come support Osceola Guardian ad Litem at its second fundraiser “GALa” on Oct. 7 at the Marriott Orlando World Center. Sponsored by Voices for Osceola’s Children, it will be a night of charity casino action, live music, a silent auction and masquerade. Tickets are $100 for individuals and $1,200 for corporates tables.
Be a Voice Advocate for a Child Become a Guardian ad Litem
For morevisit informationWWW.GALOSCEOLA.COM about the program or how to volunteer call 407-742-6600.or Call 407-742-6656 For info
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