We made it to August, and there is much to celebrate as we enter a new season. The return to school and work (for some) season. I remember spending years shopping for new clothes and shoes with my parents and siblings, complaining about earlier bedtimes, and juggling homework and extracurricular activities. The chaos of those times may have seemed like a challenge back then, but now they are nostalgic moments that make me appreciate the joy of being a child.
So, as backpacks and work bags start to eclipse beach bags, this back-to-school issue is brimming with guidance and inspiration to help you leap into the coming school year fully prepared and excited! We’ll explore after-school delights and unlock teacher treasures with innovative programs and field trips at Harry P. Leu Gardens. Strap in for a pleasant reading ride as we share back-to-school shopping tips, design productive work office spaces and determine when to limit social media usage for teens.
Most importantly, we’ll delve into the power of community involvement as we usher in the next generation. So, let’s ride the anticipation and enthusiasm wave together into the new school year. Happy August!
Sincerely,
Alexis GeorgeEDITOR
Alexis George
Alexis.George@lifestylescfl.com
COMMUNITY LIAISON AMBASSADOR
Kristi Gomen
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Michael Feland
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Catie Moore
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Jenna Greaves, Grayson Keglovic, Andrew Montana
WRITERS
Tarre Beach, Candy Cole, Jennifer Couvertier, Melissa Donovan, Jenna Greaves, Kristen Jackson, Grayson Keglovic, Rich Maladecki, Andrew Montana, T. Michele Walker, Amy Vanz
SALES / MARKETING
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Sharon.Lam@lifestylescfl.com
makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. Neither the publishers nor advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found herein, and the publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in ads and/or in paid promotional features. August 2023.
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6 IS YOUR TEEN USING SOCIAL MEDIA TOO MUCH?
Pamela A. Ponce, MD, with Orlando Health Physician Associates - Pediatrics, shares everything you need to know about mental health risks for teens using social media.
16 DECODING WEATHER MYSTERIES AND MORE WITH ZACH COVEY
In this fun Q&A, meteorologist Zach Covey with Spectrum News 13 allows us to explore the essential role of meteorologists in our daily lives and how unpredictable Florida weather shapes his intriguing career.
20 A LEARNING SANCTUARY: HARRY P. LEU GARDENS
Unearth the team’s vision for the upcoming year, the enriching new programs set to launch, and how schools and the broader community can partner with this vibrant education hub.
26 BLENDING INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY TRUST IN SPINE CARE
The Masson Spine Institute (MSI) has been a beacon of hope and recovery for patients grappling with spinal injury for 25 years. Learn how Dr. Robert Masson and his team stand out as global thought leaders.
32 ORANGE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS
The library system reflects on the past and looks to the future. Learn a few fun facts about the library’s history and how you can participate in the celebration of this monumental occasion.
48 AROUND CENTRAL FLORIDA
Central Florida has plenty to offer for residents and visitors alike. Every month, receive our recommendations of places to explore.
8 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW Breathing New Life into TFA Football
10 YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED
Navigating Challenges of StateAppointed Guardianship in Florida
12 DANIEL’S CORNER
Bud and Bloom
14 TALK OF THE TOWN
Conversations for Your Community
18 HOMESTYLE
Creating a Productive Workspace at Home
22 DINING
Make it Magical
24 MONEY MATTERS
The Importance of Financial Literacy in Our Schools
28
EDUCATION
Stepping into a New Academic Year with Pam Gould
30 EDUCATION
Study Tips for a Successful School Year
34 SPORTS AND RECREATION
What to Expect from UCF as it Enters the Big XII Conference
36 SPORTS AND RECREATION Swing into National Golf Month’s 30th-Year Celebration
38 SPORTS AND RECREATION
After-School Activities to Keep Your Kids Active and Busy
40 ON TREND
Incoming College Freshman (And Their Parents) Need Facebook
42 ON TREND
Dominate Back-To-School Shopping At Dollar Tree
44 YOUR LOCAL
Lake Nona: Fueling Growth in a Rapidly Changing Community
46 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Black-Owned Businesses Bring Their Passions to Central Florida
50 CALENDAR
He can see his future. So can we.
Many factors will impact his future health, most of which exist outside our walls. Making a difference through programs that will reach him at school, at home and even on the playground is a big part of our mission. We’ll always provide the critical care kids need today, but we’re equally committed to influencing a healthier tomorrow.
Visit Nemours.org to see how we’re creating a healthier future.
Whether at the dinner table, watching TV, or while out with friends, teenagers constantly use social media, which might not be good for their mental health.
Here’s what you need to know.
Two factors influence whether social media use by teens is detrimental to their mental health: the amount of time they spend online and how they use social media. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends up to two hours a day of screen time for children ages 5 through 18. Some studies have found that spending more than three hours a day online is the tipping point for mental health problems.
A study of more than 450 teens found that greater social media use, nighttime social media use, and emotional investment in social media — such as feeling upset when prevented from logging on — were each linked with worse sleep quality and higher levels of anxiety and depression.
Teens who use social media passively, such as by viewing others’ posts, may be at higher risk for anxiety and depression. That’s because they are comparing themselves to others. Teens who interact online or post their own content appear to be less at risk of mental health issues.
According to Pew Research Center, if you have a teen girl in the
United States, you are more likely than a parent of a teen boy to say you are “extremely” or “very concerned” that social media use might lead your daughter to experience problems with anxiety and depression (32 percent vs. 24 percent) and lower selfesteem (30 percent vs. 23 percent). Still, 47 percent of the parents surveyed said they are “only a little” or “not at all” worried about social media causing anxiety or depression in their teens.
Social media platforms let teens find others who share their interests and concerns and receive support. Such positive communities help teens feel like they belong and create friendships. Teens can also learn about and work for causes in their communities — and worldwide — through social media. They can build awareness, develop fundraisers and use their numbers to affect change. Finally, social media gives teens an outlet for personal expression and creativity. From singing, writing and acting to fashion, make-up trends or craft projects, kids connect through digital technology and find self-confidence and self-worth in doing what they love.
Some of the most common signs that social media use is negatively affecting your teen include:
■ Constantly attached to a device
and gets upset when asked to get off it
■ Withdraws from previously enjoyed activities
■ Grades are slipping
■ Sleep is disrupted
If you notice any of these signs, talking with your teen is a good idea. If your child seems reluctant to open up, a mental health counselor can help.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has developed a free, interactive tool for families to create media plans to help kids avoid overusing media. You can customize your plan to meet your family’s values and lifestyle by considering each child’s age, health, personality and developmental stage. Plus, you can revise your plan as often as needed, such as at the beginning of each school year or during summer and holiday breaks. The media use planning tool also is available in Spanish.
The family media plan includes the following:
■ A list of media priorities you can choose
■ Practical tips to help make the plan work
■ Explanation of why the plan is important
■ The ability to print or share your finished plan
For Your Best Choice.
At Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, we make choosing a children’s hospital easy for you. And once again, U.S. News & World Report has recognized our efforts by naming us a “Best Children’s Hospital” for the 14th year in a row. Learn more at ArnoldPalmerHospital.com choose well.
Learn how Coach Jeff Conaway will lead the charge to elevate the Royals football team this upcoming season and beyond.
By Alexis George
Tackle people? Check. Run the football? Check. From his humble beginnings playing backyard football, Jeff Conaway realized early on that he loved the game. But at the time, he couldn’t have fathomed pursuing it as a career field. His eyes were set on becoming a pharmacist. But as many of us figure out, sometimes what we think we want to be and who we are uniquely positioned to be are completely different.
It wasn’t until college at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas that he discovered his true calling.
“When I went to college and started taking those classes, I realized that maybe being a pharmacist wasn’t the best choice,” Conaway shared as he explained his standing passion for athletics, youth, and the gospel message. “So, they say what you can’t play, you coach, and I knew I wanted to be around young people. So, it was a great fit for me as a freshman in college.”
The rest is history.
Twenty years later, he continues to make an impact as the Varsity Head Coach and Associate Athletics Director for The First Academy (TFA). A strong journey starting at Shiloh Christian in Arkansas has made Conaway eager to build upon the existing structure at TFA.
Serving 13 years at Shiloh as a football coach and athletics director, Conaway is all about taking things to the next level. Under his leadership, Shiloh had an impressive performance with four straight championship appearances, a 99-27 overall record and a 12-2 record last season.
Highlighting that TFA and Shiloh are similar in their belief in excellence and the gospel, Conaway says the sky is the limit.
“There are some things that we can do very quickly to elevate the atmosphere and the culture,” he said. “This TFA football team isn’t broken; it just needs to be taken to the next level or two.”
That spirit of excellence drives Conaway’s four-pillar coaching philosophy: developing champions spiritually, academically, socially, and athletically.
“We want to be elite in those four areas,” he stated. “If we can teach it, and they can buy into those things, they’ll see improvement. That’s how you gain momentum.”
Building momentum will take time, especially as Conaway adjusts to Florida’s distinctive football culture and the team adjusts to a new language of football under
his leadership. Conaway says he is praying for patience as he and the team embark on the journey ahead.
“I think even the Florida and the TFA football culture can become even more exciting,” Conaway said. “I think the biggest challenge is whether we can generate enough momentum and enough small victories to be patient until we get to where we’re highly efficient.”
Patience and support from the community are equally important. He explains how rallying the community to visit TFA and making it an exciting experience where the football program takes care of its community is the vision. And while he plans to rely on his coaching staff and community to reach the goal, Conaway’s primary guide will remain his spirituality.
“When I try to be a Christ follower and allow the Holy Spirit to live in me and through me, things are much easier,” he said, reflecting on his biggest lesson as a coach.
Once football season ends, Conaway will transition full-time into his dual role as associate athletic director. As a former athletic director, he looks forward to working with Will Cohen, TFA’s athletic director, to fulfill the mission of TFA’s athletic department through “competition in interscholastic sports, by implementing Biblical principles in our instruction, and by setting Godly examples.”
“We’re all in it together,” said Conaway regarding his family including his wife Melissa, daughters Landry and Ayla, and his son Jones. “The Conaway family is very excited about being in Orlando, excited about being at TFA, and we can’t wait to turn this into one of the most exciting football programs in the state of Florida.”
Make sure to follow The First Academy Athletics on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @TFA_Athletics
By Kristen Jackson,
My mother named me as her preneed guardian in her advanced directives. Because I had recently moved and changed my phone number, I was not immediately reachable when the state of Florida determined my mother needed a guardian. Three months had passed when I first learned of my mother’s incapacity, and the court denied my efforts to remove the authority of the state-appointed guardian. The state argued that I was adversarial and noncooperative with the state-appointed guardian.
Q:How can a state take away the authority of a designated preneed guardian and favor a state-appointed guardian over the incapacitated person’s first choice named in legally prepared documents?
A:In Florida, the court may appoint a state-appointed guardian regardless of whether a suitable family member is designated within legal documents, namely, a declaration of preneed guardian, or if the family dynamics are unfavorable. If you believe that the state-appointed guardian is acting against the best interests of your loved one or denying you access to visitation, there are steps you can take. Opening constructive communication is critical to resolving conflicts and addressing misunderstandings. Let’s examine two hypothetical cases that highlight common challenges faced by individuals seeking to regain control as guardians.
Sometimes, the court may appoint a state guardian instead of a family member designated as a preneed guardian in an individual’s advance directives. This decision can occur if the court determines that the preneed guardian cannot fulfill their duties or is deemed unsuitable for the role. While this can be distressing for family members, it is important to understand why the court appoints a state guardian and to ensure someone considers the incapacitated individual’s best interests.
An adversarial situation between a family member and a state-appointed guardian can create significant challenges. Building a cooperative relationship with the guardian is essential to maintaining contact with your loved one. Demonstrating a willingness to collaborate, providing necessary information, and respectfully expressing concerns may help improve the situation.
Dealing with a situation where the court appoints a state-appointed guardian over a family member can be emotionally challenging. However, by understanding the court’s perspective, seeking legal counsel, and advocating for your rights, you can take steps towards gaining control over the guardianship. Open and respectful communication with the state-appointed guardian is crucial to maintaining a positive relationship and ensuring the well-being of your loved one. Remember that it is possible to navigate challenging guardianship situations in Florida with patience, perseverance, and appropriate legal guidance.
Contact an attorney experienced in guardianship and conservatorship law before you give up any right to become the guardian of a loved one whose well-being a state-appointed guardian manages.
Kristen Jackson is the founding partner of Jackson Law P.A. (407-363-9020). She is experienced in estate planning, real estate law, business and contract law. Her firm has earned an AV rating by Martindale-Hubbell signifying the highest level of professional excellence as obtained through opinions from members of the bar and judiciary. For more information, visit www.JacksonFloridaRealtor.com
High school seniors Tiesha Joseph and Maddie Painter both say the musical The Little Shop of Horrors is their favorite play. The two Daniel Mills Apprentices, both on the performance track, enjoy the famous 1960s B movie turned Broadway show turned campy movie because of its great music and its moral: Fame, fortune, and celebrity are not worth giving up everything for.
Joseph, an Evans High School student, says she prefers drama to comedy but loves The Little Shop of Horrors for its songs. “I love the song ‘Somewhere That’s Green.’ I think it embodies what it’s like to dream of having the simple things in life,” Joseph says.
One of six children, Joesph says she got her first taste of performing when she landed the role of shepherd in a church play at seven years old. She believes being a Haitian-American may be part of what has motivated her to be an actor. “We Haitians have a long tradition of storytelling in our culture. I think bringing a story to life by performing it is something I was born to do.”
Not sure which college she’ll attend when she graduates next year,
Joseph says she wants to focus on studying law and theater. She says she’s realistic and knows that being a professional actor may be difficult, so she wants a well-rounded education.
Joseph says she’s very thankful for the apprenticeship. “Being able to be an actor is not always accessible for someone like me—a Haitian-American from Pine Hills,” Joseph says. “I feel honored to have had this opportunity to get to work and learn from professional actors.”
Timber Creek High School senior Painter says she loves The Little Shop of Horrors because it’s funny and it has heart. The song “Suddenly Seymour” sweetly reminds audiences that the play may be weird, but it’s also a love story. “Audrey is falling for Seymour, and there’s a lot of emotion to it, but it’s a little funny, too,” Painter says.
Painter’s father actually played Seymour, the male lead of the play, in his high school’s production. Sometimes the two of them sing songs from the play together.
Starting her performance career in kindergarten doing school pageants, Painter says she loves doing comedic roles the best. “Life can be so
hard sometimes. Who doesn’t want to laugh?” she says. “It’s magical. You could have a bad day, but after a good laugh, you forget how awful your day was,” Painter says.
Interestingly, Painter, who knows Joseph and vice versa, is also considering studying law and theater in college. “I’m thinking juvenile law or political science along with a minor in theater.”
Painter says wherever she ends up, she will always be grateful for being a Daniel Mills Apprentice. For her, the masterclasses were one of the best things about the program. Painter learned much about herself in a masterclass called Movement and Body, taught by Roberta Emerson.
“I felt like I was able to find a way to break down my internal walls. It was helpful for my acting and also on a personal level.”
Joseph and Painter look forward to their next projects and more theatrical education in the coming months. Like one of the lyrics from their favorite play—they are excited to “bud and bloom.”
Summer is still in full swing! Navigate through kids’ delightful quips, back-to-school readiness, Labor Day fun and more. Make the most of the month ahead, and remember, be kind, always.
Here are 3 of my favorite humorous children’s quotes:
■ “Are we taking the stairs or the alligator?”
■ “Mom, I’m getting a cold, or maybe the flute.”
■ “Dad, did you ever notice that all the bad guys in Disney movies are really good singers?”
Regarding the upcoming school year, several websites recommend the following tips to prepare the household and the children for another year of learning:
■ Utilize a school calendar daily to organize homework, projects, exams, and special school activities
■ Start school year bedtime routines one week before the first day of class
■ Finalize the purchase of all needed school supplies
■ If appropriate, plan to meet your child’s (children’s) teachers to discuss expectations and upcoming activities
It’s time to consider family and friend activities for the 3-day Labor Day Weekend (September 2-4). Ideas may include football watch parties, a BBQ, hiking, golfing, or a picnic at a regional park.
Are you ready? Magical Dining begins August 18, so review the website today to discover the list of participating 2023 restaurants, and most importantly, set your reservations now!
■ Start finalizing after-school childcare now, if needed
Reminder: Now through August 6, you can purchase “TAX-FREE” School Supplies for the upcoming school year!
Be a “Good Neighbor” during the heat of the summer. Speak to your neighbors to see if help is needed (shopping, dog walking, carpooling, gardening, etc.).
By Kristi Gomen
From debunking weather myths to forecasting future advancements, seasoned meteorologist Zach Covey with Spectrum News 13 allows us to explore the essential role of meteorologists in our daily lives and how unpredictable Florida weather shapes his intriguing career.
What sparked your passion for weather, and how did you get started in this field?
My passion for weather grew from my upbringing as a child. Growing up a military brat, I moved around a lot and traveled around the world; seeing firsthand the different weather and climates really stuck with me. I was especially fascinated by tropical weather and hurricanes.
With Central Florida being a travel destination, what are some common misconceptions about the area’s weather that you’d like to clear up for those visiting or new to the area?
Florida has seasons. We don’t have winter, spring, summer or fall. Instead, we have wet and dry seasons. Dry season is an unofficial term by meteorologists explaining the period that receives the least rainfall dur-
ing a year. For Central Florida, that’s between October 15 and May 15. The wet season, on the other hand, is where most of our yearly rainfall occurs. It runs the opposite datesMay 15 through October 15. When visiting Florida, dress based on what season we’re in, not the season you’re coming from.
Some also believe in “heat lightning.” It’s not a thing, people; sorry to tell you. Heat and temperature have absolutely nothing to do with the creation of lightning. A long time ago, people used to associate those bolts with temperature and heat, thus the name heat lightning. But further studies and knowledge over the decades have proven that theory wrong. Rather, you’re seeing a strong and bright bolt of lightning from a distant thunderstorm, even though you may not hear the thunder accompanying it due to the distance.
During the heart of Summer in Florida, some thunderstorms can produce lightning strikes seen over 100 miles away. At that distance, the sound of thunder that typically accompanies a lightning strike dwindles out, never reaching our ears. But the brightness of the strike flashes through the night sky.
What’s your go-to comfort food on days when the weather is less than ideal?
My mom’s Chicken and Dumplings. Oh, so good! The broth and pieces of chicken warm me up. The doughy goodness of the dumplings is something I could eat all day, every day. But especially during the winter months. That’s easily my go-to comfort food.
What has been your proudest moment so far in your years of studying and reporting weather patterns?
Covering the approach, landfall, and aftermath of Hurricane Florence in 2018 when I worked at a station in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Hurricane Florence was an extremely powerful Category 4 hurricane that roared toward the Carolina coastline. While Florence wasn’t particularly strong upon landfall, the flooding rains caused the most damage, dumping over 23 inches of rainfall across the state.
I worked 84 hours straight on air alongside my weather team during
the entire event. After the event was over, I started hearing from viewers who were sharing their stories with me. People who said I kept them calm when the worst was over their house, others who said I helped save their lives by telling them to evacuate. Those stories have stuck with me, and I continue to reinforce my purpose — to be the calm voice of reason during the worst of mother nature’s wrath. Telling viewers facts without the hype. Those stories prove that I have a duty to provide you with lifesaving information to keep you and those you love safe.
What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes outside of work?
Sports are a huge part of my life. From college football to the NHL, I follow sports religiously. Living in Central Florida, it’s a perfect sports market too, and you’ll frequently find me at a Tampa Bay Lightning game or over at Camping World Stadium for a college football bowl game.
Outside of sports, I’m a huge Parks fan. Disney, Universal, you name it. I spend a lot of time at the parks eating park food and riding rollercoasters. I have a dream to one
day visit every Disney Park in the world. I only have two more to check off - Hong Kong and Shanghai.
Have you had any funny moments or major mishaps on-air while reporting the weather? Can you share one story?
When I left my last job in West Palm Beach to come here to Central Florida, I left with a unique goodbye. When most people leave a job, some coworkers bring a cake or food for everyone to eat and enjoy together. But not me. I wanted to leave my viewers with a memory they wouldn’t forget.
So, I bought some dry, seasoned crickets and grasshoppers and ate them on air. And I even convinced my co-anchor to join me. We spent the last five minutes of my weekend morning show tasting crickets and grasshoppers on air while we talked about my time at the station and said my final goodbyes. It was such a unique way of saying thank you to everyone for allowing me into their homes while leaving them with a fun memory of me.
And for the record, the grasshoppers were my favorite.
Looking ahead to the future of weather forecasting, what developments or advancements do you anticipate seeing in this field within the next few years?
With the advancement of technology over the past several years, it’s no surprise that the emergence of new tech will likely impact the weather industry. AI and machine learning may be at the forefront for us meteorologists. I see machine learning being introduced into computer model simulations by comparing previous forecast model runs and actual observations. Hopefully, this will allow the machine to produce a forecast more accurately in both temporal and spatial resolution. AI also could provide major benefits, from helping to produce timely weather alerts to those on their phones to helping produce weather graphics you’ll see us use on your TV. The future is bright for so many sectors with the birth of new technology, but I think meteorologists will greatly benefit from these new advancements.
Whether your home office is a designated space for running a business, a remote workspace, a nook for paying bills and organizing schedules or a place for the kids to work, it should be more than an extra desk and chair stuffed into a spare corner. Why? An office that is thought out and welldesigned will allow for great things to happen!
As we head back to school, creating a comfortable and functional workspace for kids and adults working from home is essential. Factors like temperature, lighting, and noise can drastically affect your mood and overall health, and the visual aesthetics and design of your office can make it easier or harder to work.
Here are some tips to help make an at-home workspace for kids and adults as effective as possible.
1. Choose a quiet area of the house with few distractions. This could be a spare bedroom, a corner of the living room, or any other area where work can be done
without being disturbed. Make sure the space is well-lit. Natural light is best, but if that’s impossible, invest in a suitable desk or floor lamp to provide adequate lighting. The rule of thumb for interior design is three good light sources per space.
2. When selecting a desk and chair, sometimes we want to go for what looks good. However, read reviews when going to purchase any furniture. You will want to find a comfortable chair and desk that matches the height of the person using it. This will help prevent back pain and discomfort from sitting for extended periods. Also, consider the flow of the room when arranging furniture and accessories. Ensure ample room to move around comfortably and confirm that the layout aligns with the room’s intended uses.
3. Keep the space organized and clutter-free. Ensure there is enough storage space for books, papers, and other supplies to
find what you need quickly. Use storage solutions that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. This could include decorative baskets, shelving units, or hidden storage compartments.
4. Use color and texture to create visual interest and define different areas of the room. This could include accent walls, area rugs and decorative throw pillows. Feel free to incorporate personal touches that reflect your personality and style. This could include artwork, family photos, a few plants, or other decorative items that are meaningful to you. Have fun with it! It’s your space to work on being the best at your work, so surround yourself with only things that inspire you!
And, if you are unsure how to bring all the tips above together or don’t have the time, at Rooms Refreshed, we can help you create spaces unique to you that will help you be your most productive self!
By Alexis George
As summer vacation soon ends and the regular back-to-school season begins, educators and students are exploring the rich, diverse learning environments that extend beyond the classroom walls. One such locale is the enchanting 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens sanctuary.
As we navigate the winding paths of this botanical haven, we’ll unearth the team’s vision for the upcoming year, the enriching new programs set to launch, and how schools and the broader community can partner with this vibrant education hub.
Each garden is designed to further the Garden’s mission to “inspire visitors to appreciate and understand plants.” The garden and historical home were deeded to the City of Orlando in 1961 by Mr. Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane.
An Orlando native, D’hollander was appointed as Executive Director in May 2023. During her first 90 days, she looks forward to carrying on the legacy of her predecessors and enhancing the beautiful work of art that is Harry P. Leu Gardens, including immediate past executive director Robert Bowden who retired after 30 years.
“So far, everything has been incredible. I am so excited and honored to have been selected for this opportunity. This is my dream job; I get to work in an incredibly beautiful environment with an incredible staff,” D’hollander says.
D’hollander has a background in museums, previously having served as the executive director of the Lake Wales History Museum and the Sample-McDougald House and the Director of Visitor Services & Programs at Bok Tower Gardens. Her immediate growth area at Harry P. Leu Gardens is focused on connectivity and community engagement and balancing being a botanical garden and an events venue that enhance each other.
Under the leadership of its new Executive Director, Jennifer D’hollander, and the relentless efforts of Education Program Manager Sandra Linn, Harry P. Leu Gardens is continuing the legacy by offering unique, hands-on learning experiences designed to engage and inspire both the young and the young-atheart.
Jennifer D’hollander Executive Director
Tours occur daily at the gardens, and the goal is to make each visit impactful for all involved at an affordable cost. D’hollander explains that the Gardens incorporate appropriate teaching standards on all field trips and visits. Linn echoes that sentiment, encouraging schools who have never visited Harry P. Leu Gardens to reach out and set up a field trip. It is a place to be inspired to go back to learn more at school.
“We have many opportunities,” Linn says. “We have a lot of different field trips; you can have guided field trips,
self-guided field trips, or we have field trips that you can add some different programs to. We’ll create the experience they need and want to have here.”
Speaking of new experiences, the Gardens is introducing a new field trip for third, fourth, and fifth graders this fall. Called the Birds Around the World Tour, the program will allow students to visit birdhouses near interesting trees worldwide. Students will learn about the trees and birds native to those regions that rely on the trees, with the challenge of finding the continents on a blow-up globe.
Their guide will also have photos and links to the vocalizations of native birds that frequent the Gardens, which they might spot through their binoculars. The field trip includes a follow-up teacher booklet for educators to teach kids how to attract native birds to their yards. The program is limited to 40 students per day for $8.00 per student. One adult per every seven students is free, with tours beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting approximately an hour and a half.
Linn is also happy to reveal the schedule of the brandnew Girl Scout Badge programs opening in the fall. Girl Scout leaders can register their entire troop, or girls can register separately. Tickets are available for sale starting this month.
Linn emphasizes that such experiences can inspire kids to engage with nature in their own yards, creating
habitats for creatures like butterflies. She stresses the importance of direct interaction with nature in childhood, encouraging kids to overcome fears and misunderstandings about the natural world. D’hollander echoes those sentiments, explaining how these outdoor experiences can create lasting memories. This interaction with nature is crucial in fostering a love for the environment and raising environmental awareness.
“We all know that our natural world resources are limited, and we must respect them and maintain bits and pieces of our natural world as we grow,” D’hollander says. “So, that’s my hope. We can be this beautiful oasis in a built city that reminds people at any age that we’re connected to this world.”
So, as we’ve explored, Harry P. Leu Gardens enchants visitors with its natural beauty and fosters an enriching educational environment that encourages learning, growth, and curiosity. With its passionate leadership and exciting new programs on the horizon, the Gardens promise to cultivate a fertile ground of knowledge that can inspire, inform, and ignite a love for learning for all, especially the youth.
“The most rewarding thing I get to see working here doing what I do is when kids get to be kids, outside enjoying nature and discovering something that they had never seen or experienced before,” D’hollander says.
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit https://www.leugardens.org/
From August 18 through October 1, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining will offer three-course fixed-priced menus at some of Orlando’s best restaurants. This year, a new tiered menu system allows you to have your appetizer, entree, and cake and eat it too at more restaurants.
Diners can now have a fantastic dining experience and delicious meal for $40 or $60 (not including tax and gratuity). Some $60 menus available at the 115 participating restaurants include The Ravenous Pig, A Land Remembered, Salt & The Cellar, AVA MediterrAagean, and BACÁN.
According to Visit Orlando’s president and CEO Casandra Matej, these changes reflect the “incredible growth and range of Orlando’s culinary scene.”
Additionally, several Michelin Guide recommended, and Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants are participating this year. Michelin defines recommend restaurants (not restaurants with Michelin stars) as ones where diners can find quality food and Bib Gourmand restaurants as friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices.
Originally called Magical Dining Month and running during September, this affordable access to culinary delights began in 2009 to help boost business during what is historically a slow time for Central Florida restaurants. During the pandemic, the event collected a record-breaking $345,378 for Feed the Need Florida in 2020.
This year’s beneficiary is The Lifeboat Project, an Apopka, FL headquartered organization that raises awareness on the issue of human trafficking, empowering the lives of survivors through short and longterm aftercare, residential programs and education. Proceeds from this year’s program will support The Lifeboat Project’s mental health counseling and trauma recovery and assist with human trafficking prevention and education. According to The Lifeboat Project, Central Florida is among the three worst human trafficking areas in the United States.
During Magical Dining, The Lifeboat Project will receive $1 for each $40 meal and $2 for each $60 meal. To ensure that donations have a widespread impact throughout our community, Visit Orlando will also
award a $2,000 donation to one local nonprofit in each of Orange County’s six commission districts that support this cause. Those six charities include: Mustard Seed of Central Florida, Nuevo Sendero, One Heart for Women and Children, Salvation Army Orlando, Samaritan Village, and Wake Up Mentoring.
In the first year of Magical Dining, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children was the event’s nonprofit partner. Nonprofits can apply to be the beneficiary of this feel- and tastegood annual event through an application process that starts in March.
To view menus, find participating restaurants, and in many cases, make reservations, go to MagicalDining.com/restaurants
By Amy Vanz
In today’s complex and everchanging world, the importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated, especially for high school students who are on the brink of independence. Understanding the ins and outs of personal finance is crucial for their success and well-being. That is why organizations like Junior Achievement of Central Florida play a vital role in equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Financial literacy education in high schools is essential for several reasons. It empowers students to make informed decisions about their money. Budgeting, saving, and investing are skills that will serve students well throughout their lives, enabling them to navigate the financial challenges they will inevitably encounter. By providing students with a strong foundation in financial literacy, Junior Achievement sets them up for a future of financial independence and security.
In addition, financial literacy education can help address social and economic inequalities. Students from diverse backgrounds often need more exposure to financial concepts and resources to avoid perpetuating financial insecurity cycles. Ju-
nior Achievement levels the playing field by integrating financial literacy into high school education. It gives all students the tools to make smart financial choices, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
Junior Achievement of Central Florida has been promoting financial literacy education in the region since 1961. The mission is to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy. Through its programs, Junior Achievement brings real-world experiences into the classroom, helping students understand the relevance of financial literacy in their lives.
One of the unique aspects of Junior Achievement’s approach is its partnerships with area businesses. Local volunteers from various industries donate their time to teach financial literacy and entrepreneurship lessons in classrooms. These volunteers share their expertise and personal experiences, making the learning process engaging and relevant. By bringing real professionals into the classroom, we ensure that students gain practical insights and understand the connection between what they learn and the real world.
The partnerships between Junior Achievement and local businesses
benefit the students and the community. Area businesses have a vested interest in the financial well-being of the next generation. Volunteering with Junior Achievement contributes to building a financially literate workforce, which fosters economic stability and growth. Through these collaborations, students gain exposure to different career paths and build valuable networks that can help shape their future success.
Financial literacy education is a crucial component of high school education. It empowers students to make informed financial decisions, promotes equality, and sets the stage for a financially secure future.
With its commitment to providing relevant and engaging financial literacy, Junior Achievement of Central Florida programs are significantly impacting the lives of high school students. They are bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application by partnering with local businesses. By working together, Junior Achievement and the community can ensure that every student has the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly complex financial landscape.
By Alexis George
For 25 years, the Masson Spine Institute (MSI) has stood as a beacon of hope and recovery for patients grappling with spinal injury. Established by globally recognized neurosurgeon Dr. Robert Masson, MSI combines a comprehensive multi-modal and community approach to pushing the boundaries of modern medicine.
Dr. Masson is passionate about lean performance, systems and teams for the best outcomes. With personal experience as a lifelong athlete and sustaining a spine injury himself, he understands the importance of patients trusting their physicians and becoming experts in their injury to participate actively in recovery.
“People don’t come to the brand; they come to our personalized style of care. We work one-on-one with every person in our practice and everybody we care for; we consider it part of our culture,” says Dr. Masson.
As part of its ongoing commitment to being a trusted community confidant and optimizing strategies for enhancing patient outcomes and functionality, MSI is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Phil Behrens, M.D., to its talented team.
Dr. Behrens is a third-generation physician specializing in advanced minimally invasive spine surgery techniques. He is also the Executive Vice President and co-founder of Walqer, LLC, a next generation walking device company dedicated to improving patient mobilization through biomechanical optimization.
He is passionate about regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy and holds many awards from high-impact research societies. Alongside distinguished colleagues, Dr. Jay Wright, who specializes in elite pain management and physical medicine treatment, and Dr. Mitchell Supler, who specializes in neurosurgery, Dr. Behrens will extend MSI’s innovative growth trajectory.
“We’re very excited to have him. He loves Orlando and is passionately motivated to make Orlando his home for decades,” says Dr. Masson. “He’s been best in class in everything he’s done in his young career. Most importantly, he understands that [being the best in class] is a lifelong progression. He will continue to have that mindset by joining our practice. We don’t bend on paths. We innovate, progress, and evolve the mindset extremely well.”
Dr. Masson is already a world leader and inventor of the iMAS 360™ lumbar reconstruction platform, increasing his training of other surgeons worldwide. He is also the Founder and CEO of eXpanded eXistence™, an artificial intelligence-enhanced software company backed by mixed reality and machine learning, focused on surgical logistics and performance. True to its innovative spirit, MSI will further leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize patient care.
“We will use AI more administratively and organizationally to streamline triaging people to their best care faster,” says Dr. Masson. “Everybody’s worried about computers playing doctor. I agree; we still want an intimate human encounter but see an opportunity to improve the bureaucracy.”
Staying ahead of trends sets MSI apart as a global thought leader. A case in point is the increasing acceptance of artificial disc surgery in spine treatment. Dr. Masson, who has an artificial disc in his neck, has been an educator on artificial disc surgery for nearly 16 years since its FDA approval in 2008.
“We’re excited that this continues to evolve, and we will continue to be the community leader in Florida and the country,” he says.
MSI is a center of excellence, blending exceptional medical expertise, innovative technology, and unwavering commitment to its patients. The mission remains to find a strategy for people to be their most functional selves.
“We’re fiercely passionate about performance. Our goals for people are to get them back to who they were before their spine health crisis. That remains a fundamental difference in our philosophy from traditional spine surgery,” says Dr. Masson.
Dr. Robert Masson, M.D., is an internationally recognized private practice neurosurgeon with vast experience in cerebrovascular and skull base surgery. In 1999, he dedicated his 34-year neurosurgical career to minimally invasive spine surgery.
He has treated various elite professional athletes and lifelong weekend warriors, recognizing the importance of spine surgery to highly functional people who have lost their functional capabilities amid a spine health crisis. He is an expert on sports spine surgery.
He is a proud father of five and a lifelong athlete. He enjoys multiple sports, including tennis, prototype racing, basketball and snow skiing. He was second in the 2019 Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona in the Le Mans Prototype 2 Class with his oldest son Kyle. Dr. Masson commits to pushing his personal limits, and his hobbies include aviation, back-country skiing, scuba diving, mountain climbing and mountain biking.
At the age of 17, Dr. Behrens was one of six students accepted to Indiana University School of Medicine in a combined BS/MD program. He was also awarded the President’s Medal of Honor—the highest honor given to a graduating senior. In medical school, he was among the top 15% of his medical school class and a member of Alpha Omega Alpha. He completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Beverly Hills, California.
He has been nominated for the Hibbs Science Award by the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS), the highest award in translational science at the largest international spine meeting. Dr. Behrens enjoys classic car restoration, skiing, and trap shooting in his free time. He also enjoys spending time with his better half, Mojdeh, and their highly esteemed dog, Charlie.
Dr. Wright is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, and he completed his residency at the University of Texas Southwestern with a specialty in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Dr. Wright was board certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and received additional board certification in pain management.
Dr. Supler graduated from the University of Florida with honors and received the Lyerly Award for Excellence in Neurosurgery. He has been certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery since 1999 and currently serves as the Chief of Surgery at Orlando Health Central Hospital.
Visit https://massonsi.com/ for more information.
By Alexis George
August is here, and it’s time to turn our attention to the upcoming academic year. And who better to go back to school with than Pam Gould?
Serving two terms as Vice Chair for Orange County Public Schools, Gould has positively impacted education in District 4 since her election in 2012. She has championed young female empowerment, forging partnerships that inspire and mentor young women and men while pioneering increased skills-based learning and entrepreneurial programs and introducing a progressive approach to mental health care in schools. Her commitment to growth is reflected in her instrumental role in increasing industry-aligned certifications, ensuring diverse learning options and a safe environment for the district’s students, advancing new technology usage and creating sustainable job opportunities for ESE students.
As we stand on the threshold of another good year, Gould shares her thoughts, ambitions, and plans for the vibrant educational landscape ahead. But most importantly, she highlights ways the community can engage more actively in shaping the future of our schools.
Over the last year, despite the challenges, District 4 schools saw notable successes, including state championships, the first graduating classes of Horizon West and Lake Buena Vista High Schools, exposing K12 students to career paths, and the appointment of new Superintendent Dr. Maria Vasquez.
Gould says the district has made significant gains but has much further to go regarding delivering quality education amidst the fast-growing West Orange County and raising awareness of all the great programs OCPS offers.
“It’s a competitive marketplace out there. Our school system’s greatest challenge is attracting quality staff in a tight marketplace. We need to continue to move wages and benefits to meet the cost of living and competitive market,” Gould says. “I am very proud of the quality education product that all the educators in West Orange deliver. Every parent must make an informed decision for the right choice for their child, but if they look under the hood of OCPS, they will see that we have many options and programs that can fit their child’s unique needs and characteristics,” Gould says.
The essence of the community lies in participation and collaboration, and the future of the local schools is a shared responsibility the community bears. Using OCPS’ apprentice and internship partnerships with the high-tech and construction industries as an example, Gould says having more community members to volunteer and support closing some of the learning gaps for those who need extra help due to the learning losses during Covid-19 or who may not have the technology or other resources at home is critical. In her continued quest to boost equitable access to technology, Gould sets her sights on a transformative goal.
“One goal I have before I leave office is to have a 6-12 Polytech that partners with industry and local higher education institutions on the west side of town,” she says. “The idea is to have everybody graduate with an industry certification, even if they are going on to get their Ph.D. eventually. That gives each student job skills to use immediately or in the future.”
Gould believes that by focusing on cutting-edge fields like medicine, autonomous vehicles, and energy, the Polytechnic institution could be a breeding ground for certifiable technical skills and groundbreaking inventions. Such an establishment wouldn’t just offer an alternative educational path for 6-12 graders; it would actively shape the technological landscape of the future.
Transformative goals like the 6-12 Polytech and influencing the success of every student requires community support. This includes faith-based, grassroots organizations and other strategic business partners who can offer their time and talents to the youth and show them all the available career paths.
One such example is the Gen Wow program that will return this fall. GenWow is a Girl-Centric movement that brings together high school students with women leaders to learn what is possible and be inspired by the positive while making valuable network connections.
“My desire would be in middle schools, in particular, to have people more engaged with our middle school students, either in mentorship, sports programs, or afterschool activities,” Gould shares. “It’s an exciting time to move forward. The world is working and moving so fast that if we can bring the technology and the basic core education forward, plus hands-on experiential learning, the sky’s the limit for the next generation.”
Gould will continue to host Table Talks throughout the school year at rotating locations throughout West Orange for anyone interested in actively engaging in what is going on in District 4 to come and have informal discussions. So, as the school doors swing open, let’s take this
opportunity to rally together, contribute our unique skills and resources, and make the upcoming academic year one for the history books. For more information on the opportunities and programs at OCPS, visit ocps.net or contact School Board Member Gould at pamela.gould@ocps.net.
The new school year is not just a fresh chapter for students but an opportunity for everyone to learn, grow, and contribute to the education narrative in our community.
Don’t let the study struggles slow you down. Whether cramming the night before an exam or brushing up on new class material, these helpful study tips will simplify your school year.
Choosing the perfect study space is crucial to doing well in school. Minimize distractions by choosing a quiet, comfortable location and clearing your desk of trinkets that could steal your attention. Studying at home can be difficult, knowing that your bed is not too far away, calling your name. Consider going to a local coffee shop or library to ensure nothing can falter your focus.
The most crucial component of creating a successful study space is the snacks. Fill your space with brain foods like grapes to reduce stress and dark chocolate for energy. Although it can be tempting, using television and popular music as background noise can be more harmful than helpful. Instead, tune your headphones into instrumental music or lofi beats to ensure your study sesh becomes something other than an impromptu jam sesh.
Ace the Test
Test-taking can be overwhelming. Knowing where to begin when preparing for an exam is often difficult. Luckily, there is a method to the madness! Break down your study routine by making flashcards and summary cheat sheets.
Try using blue ink when taking notes, as it improves memory and comprehension. Remember, studying doesn’t have to be boring. Make studying fun by drumming up catchy tunes to memorize key concepts, drawing funny pictures that demonstrate class material, or playing teacher, pretending like you are teaching your subject to a class of your own.
While it can be easy to get carried away in your studying groove, it is necessary to take frequent breaks to keep your mind fresh and ready to learn. Get up and stretch, walk, or grab a snack. After a quick break, your brain will be energized and ready to return to work.
Essay writing is a hefty task. Refrain from making yourself sound overly sophisticated. Write using
your original voice, be honest, and don’t be shy to make your writing authentic. Having a plan before jumping into any writing assignment is essential. Outline the main topics before beginning your draft to ensure a smooth, organized, and guided writing process. Check your work and check it twice with online tools like Grammarly.
In today’s age, technology is here to make life easier. Take advantage of the convenience of apps that will make studying a breeze. Maximize your note-taking skills with Dragon Anywhere and ScannerPro, and if you are tired of staring at boring notes while cramming for an exam, up your study game with interactive study apps like Quizlet and XMind.
Now that you have all these valuable tips and tricks, you can make the most of the school year! Learn like there is no tomorrow, and embrace the journey of knowledge. Your brain will thank you later.
The library system is reflecting on the past and looking to the future.
By T. Michele WalkerThe year was 1923; the Model-T was the most popular car on the road, the Disney Brothers Studio was founded in California and our country was in the third year of prohibition, making lawbreakers out of millions of Americans. It was also the year that the Albertson Public Library first opened its doors to the Orlando community on November 8, the same day that Adolf Hitler launched his first attempt at seizing power in Germany with a failed coup in Munich that came to be known as the “Beer-Hall Putsch.”
It’s hard to fathom, but before 1923 there was no permanent library in Central Florida. The only option was a small circulating collection of books owned and loaned by the Sorosis of Orlando Woman’s Club, a philanthropic women’s organization that still supports education and local charities today.
The Orlando County Library System kicked off its 100-Year Celebration on January 7 at the downtown Orlando Public Library, featuring a ribbon-cutting, live music and a rededication ceremony of the library to the community for the next 100 years.
If you missed that celebration in January, never fear. The Orange County Library System has special events
planned throughout the year, including programs that illuminate the rich history and look to the future. There are fiber arts projects, virtual reality experiences, a signature author series, and fabulous events for all ages. Where else can you attend a wide variety of events like “Meet A Gatorland Wrangler,” “Toddler Time,” “Storybook Fun,” “Adult Karaoke,” “Language Learning” and even classes in citizenship and cuisine? And the best part, these offerings are free.
Speaking of free, one of the many highlights is the announcement from the library system that it is now officially “fine free.” You read that correctly. The library will suspend all late fines and cancel all overdue charges.
The library also announced that thanks to a $100,000 donation from Sorosis of Orlando Woman’s Club, plans are in place to expand mobile services to increase access to library services and materials. As Central Florida continues to develop and expand, many people don’t have easy access to one of the library’s 15 locations. Thanks to this generous donation, plans are in place to purchase two book bicycles to bring books and other services into the community and reintroduce a bookmobile.
“As our county grows, we need to look for new and innovative ways to deliver services, especially to areas with transportation needs and other challenges,” said Library
Director and CEO Steve Powell. “A bookmobile will go a long way toward addressing those challenges. We are grateful to Sorosis of Orlando for this very generous donation.”
As the community celebrates and reflects on the past 100 years, one can’t help but feel gratitude to the Sorosis Orlando Woman’s Club and all those who had the vision to open the first library. The Orlando County Library System is here to serve the Central Florida community, helping people navigate an increasingly complex world.
Be sure to mark your calendar for November 8 and stop by your local library to celebrate 100 years of service to the community. One can’t help but wonder what the celebration will look like in another hundred years.
“Nobody can predict what Orange County will look like in 2123,” said Powell. “But it’s hard for me to imagine that there won’t be a place for Orange County Library System in its future.”
To check out all Orange County Library System’s 100-Year Celebration events, visit ocls.info/100-year-celebration.
■ The System comprises 15 locations, one main library (Orlando Public Library), and 14 branch locations.
■ They named the first library the Albertson Public Library in honor of Captain Charles L. Albertson, a retired Police Inspector of New York City and a winter resident of Orlando. Captain Albertson offered his collection to the City of Orlando on the condition that it furnish a suitable building to house it.
■ In 1949, The Friends of the Orange County Library System, a group of citizens interested in supporting libraries by raising funds and awareness, formed in Orlando.
■ The current Orlando Public Library building was dedicated on a rainy Sunday afternoon on August 7, 1966, and later expanded in the 1980s. Today, the landmark 290,000-square-foot building encompasses an entire city block.
■ The Orlando Public Library was designed by John M. Johansen, who specialized in Brutalism, a bold architectural concept popularized in the 1950s featuring unfinished concrete for interior and exterior surfaces. It remains an architectural landmark and is one of the last buildings remaining in this style open for public use. Johansen called his design a “composition in monolithic concrete.”
■ The Orange County Library System provides Information, Imagination and Inspiration to over four million visitors annually. Books are available in print, CD audiobooks, and downloadable formats compatible with mobile devices.
■ The library can deliver certain items right to your home—free of charge—using MAYL (Materials Access from Your Library). Patrons may also check out new and classic DVDs, music CDs and even stream music and movies for free via hoopla.
■ The library also offers RBDigital Magazines, which provides free access to over 250 popular e-magazine titles from your home or local Internet cafe.
■ The 26,000-square-foot Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center for Technology, Innovation & Creativity is located on the second floor of the Main Library. It includes audio, film and photography studios, flight and driving simulators, a game design lab, a fabrication lab with 3-D printers, a laser cutter and more.
After 10 years in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), the University of Central Florida is officially a member of the Big XII Conference. Effective June 1, 2023, UCF entered the Power Five Conference as the youngest school ever to do so, established in 1963. There are, however, intrigues about how the Knights will do in this new, highly competitive conference. Here is an overview of what to look forward to, potential rivalries, and predictions for four of UCF’s sports teams as the Knights enter the Big XII.
Players come in and out of schools yearly, but the transfer portal hit the Knights’ football team particularly hard this off-season. UCF lost three three-star players to the portal: Mikey Keene, Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste, and Ryan O’Keefe. Despite gaining players through the portal, these three were not only crucial in UCF’s success, but they were fan favorites.
According to 247Sports, TheTopTens, and Bleacher Report, the Big XII is the third best conference in college football, with three teams making the top 25 last year: TCU (2), Kansas State (14), and Texas (25). Nevertheless, UCF’s first three football games against Baylor,
West Virginia, and Oklahoma sold out before entering the Big XII.
Men’s Basketball
Unfortunately, the men’s basketball team’s struggles may continue into the 2023-2024 season. UCF lost Taylor Hendricks to the NBA Draft (9th overall to Utah) and core players like Ithiel Horton, Jayhlon Young, and Tyem Freeman to the transfer portal. Luckily, the portal gifted the Knights Jacksonville’s Omar Payne and Missouri-Kansas City’s Shemarri Allen.
The Knights also look to build on younger players like Thierno Sylla and Tyler Hendricks. After a painful offseason, UCF looks to improve its roster’s talent and physicality to compete with Big XII opponents like Houston and Kansas. Future recruits may be more inclined to join UCF as the Big XII offers brighter lights than other conferences.
The softball team just came off a spectacular 40-21 season with a 15-3 record against AAC teams and a 3-2 record against Big XII teams. Chloe Evans and Aubrey Evans led UCF’s batting, while Sarah Willis led UCF’s pitching. Also, Jada Cody climbed her way up UCF’s all-time RBI leader, finding herself in 3rd place.
The softball program can expect turbulence next season as four Big XII teams made ESPN’s top 25 softball colleges despite UCF barely missing the mark. Nevertheless, the Knights can expect another great season from its softball team as its roster looks nearly identical to last year’s.
Last year’s volleyball team was exceptional, with a 28-2 overall record, a 19-1 conference record, a 5-1 record against Big XII teams, and 19 sweeps. McKenna Melville led the Knights’ offense this historic season, and Abby Hansen’s blocking ability led the defense.
UCF’s volleyball program approaches a rough patch as many players move on. As Melville graduates, opponents like Houston - responsible for one of UCF’s two lossescontinue to grow alongside its rivalry with the Knights. UCF plays conference rival Cincinnati as the season opener, but expect Knight Nation to flood the stands when Houston visits on November 3.
Visit centralfloridalifestyle.com for more updates on UCF sports teams.
What first began as an overlooked sport has flourished into a full-fetched competition sport that has created stars like PGA champion Tiger Woods and 2023 U.S. Women’s Open winner Allisen Corpuz. Anyone stepping on the green will realize that golf is more than gloves and golf claps. Shine your finest clubs, fire up the golf cart engine, and roll out to the fairways to join in on the celebration as National Golf Month tees up its 30th year this August.
Not a golfer? No worries! Stay out of the sand and in the green with these tips and tricks from avid Boca Raton golfer Nicholas Ranieri that will transform you from a novice to a hole-in-one expert:
■ Perfect a steady stance by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and spreading your weight evenly between both legs. If you hold the correct posture, the rest will fall into place.
■ Keep your eye on the target.
■ Master both distance and accuracy by extending your arms fully through your swing.
■ Use the force of your body to add power to your swing. Remember, it is essential to focus on form over power.
■ Pay attention to the length and weight of your club. Choose a club that feels comfortable and works for you.
■ Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and use a cooling towel to protect yourself from the scorching Florida sun while out on the course.
■ Have fun! Don’t overthink. A clear mind equals a successful game. Let the club swing and see where the ball takes you.
“Golf is a game made to bring togetherness with others, whether you have a tee time with a stranger and become friends throughout the 18 holes or are a beginner playing with friends. There is no need to overthink how you play. Just go out there and swing and enjoy yourself,” Ranieri said.
Whether your skills are up to par with Tiger Woods or your repertoire of experience is mainly mini golf, celebrate National Golf Month on the green at one of Central Florida’s finest golf courses. Make the most of National Golf Month in the golf capital of the Southeast at Ponte Vedra Inn and Club. The highly esteemed club offers two courses, the Ocean Course and the Lagoon Course, where you
can play a round of 18 holes all day, or if you want to beat the Florida heat, enjoy a twilight round after 4 p.m. Enjoy more than just golf during your getaway with Ponte Vedra Resort’s extensive guest amenities.
If traveling is not in your wheelhouse this year, celebrate National Golf Month in Orlando at Stoneybrook East. Take some time to connect with nature on Stoneybrook’s tree-lined fairways that will give you that “Old Florida” feeling. The uniquely designed par-72 course makes it so each hole gives the golfer a new experience and challenge.
If you need more guidance on the course, Dubsdread Orlando offers classes for adults and juniors. Turn your budding golf interest into professional grade skills and learn the fundamentals of gold from full swing, chipping and putting to course etiquette.
And remember, MetroWest Golf Club has a par-72 course. If you need more than one round, check out MetroWest Golf Club’s Afternoon Golf Passport, which offers golfers access to the course every day after 3:30 p.m. for $99 monthly. The exclusive deal is only available through September, making National Golf Month the perfect time to take advantage of it!
By Jenna Greaves
School is back in session, and the kids are finally out of the house, but what happens when the last school bell rings? The kids need something to do, and we’ve got you covered! Discover after-school activities to keep your kid busy and active throughout the year.
Songbirds Music, Art, and Dance Center
Songbirds has something for every little artist. Whether your child wants to rock out in a music jam sesh, get crafty in art class, or dance their heart out, Songbirds offers interactive classes for children and teens of all ages, starting as young as six months old.
This one is for all the theater kids looking for their next big role. Students have the option to participate in classic productions like “Finding Nemo,” “The Magic School Bus,” and “Broadway Time Machine,” or attend workshops to sharpen their audition skills. Go for the lead, or play a tree! Either way, Orlando Family Stage has a part for children from every grade throughout the school year.
KidzArt
KidzArt makes finding an afterschool program easy for both kids and parents. No ride? No problem! Shake the stress of driving your child to their after-school program. KidzArt partners with local schools to offer after-school art classes directly on campus. Check the KidzArt website to see if your child’s school is on the list.
Let your child burn off the day’s energy by learning useful self-defense techniques with Champion Karate’s martial arts classes. Champion Karate’s program emphasizes personal growth, confidence, and discipline with fitness disguised as fun.
Watch your child cascade across the stage like a shooting star after taking classes at Starz Dance Galaxy. Starz Dance Galaxy offers a variety of dance styles, from ballet and contemporary to hip-hop and acro. All levels of experience are welcome starting at age 2. The 2023-24 season classes begin in August, just in time for school.
The Y is a classic after-school spot for children to exercise and find
their sports passion. Kids can play basketball, flag football, soccer, tennis, or volleyball. If running around on a hot field is outside your child’s repertoire, the YMCA has an esports team for them.
It is always early enough to get a head start on volunteer hours. U.S. Hunger is an excellent way for kids and families to interact with others while helping the greater good. U.S. Hunger is a nonprofit that packages and ships ready-to-cook meals to countries in need.
United Against Poverty is a nonprofit supporting homeless and low-income individuals and families. Volunteers ages 10+ can do their part by cleaning, organizing, and sorting through donations.
It only takes something as small as a mustard seed to make a tremendous impact. Teens age 12+ can leave their mark on the community by volunteering at The Mustard Seed’s Seed Boutique and Community Shop. Volunteers sort donations, hang clothes, restock shelves, and organize items by size.
The most dreadfully awaited, bitter-sweet moment of a child’s life is here: they’re preparing to leave the nest and face the real world. As an incoming college student, you may be equally terrified and excited to enter the unfamiliar; as a parent, you probably feel the same way as your child. Preparing for college can start with an app you may already have – Facebook.
Facebook’s “Groups” feature allows users to join larger niche communities without leaving home. Many of these groups are for specific colleges and allow students, parents, and alums to meet one another and have their questions answered.
Rising University of Central Florida senior Madison Versaggi joined the “UCF Class of 2024 (Official)” group during her freshman year at the university. Versaggi said that her first year of college was during the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing her to have an abnormal start to her college career.
“There were no social events on campus and no face-to-face lectures, so it was difficult to meet people,” Versaggi said. “Joining the UCF Facebook group let me make friends who have been with me throughout my entire college experience.”
For every first-time college student, there is also a first-time college parent. Kimberly Robideau joined nine different UCF-based groups before sending her incoming freshman to the dorms.
“Belonging in these groups has really helped me with info that isn’t easily found on the [university] website,” Robideau said. “Family Weekend, meal plans, and dorm selection have all been discussed in detail.”
While joining these groups is a great way to meet new people and learn more about a university, they can support those anxious about the new college chapter. Melissa Tomasso is a mom of two UCF students who is a part of five different UCF-oriented groups.
Tomasso has seen posts from fellow parents sharing similar concerns, such as parents who live up north but fear an impending hurricane. She said she has seen parents say things like, “‘I live down the road from UCF, your student can come and stay with me, I’ve got you.’” Tomasso says these impressive and supportive responses make the Facebook groups worth it.
“These groups help make a huge school feel smaller and more intimate,” Tomasso said. “It makes a large university smaller and puts parents at ease.”
Facebook groups are a great way to get the inside scoop on a university and turn Facebook friends into real-life friends. Whether you’re an incoming college student or the parent of one, joining a Facebook group should be put at the top of your back-to-school prep list.
You just received your child’s school supplies list, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time to enter the school supplies shopping battlefield. Walmart is a madhouse, Office Depot can be too expensive and Target might be the perfect mix of crowded isles and empty shelves. Among the back-toschool craziness, the Dollar Tree slips your mind, a store where everything is $5 or less. Central Florida Lifestyle has compiled our favorite Dollar Tree finds for when you’re on a BTS (back to school) budget.
Organization
Did you know Dollar Tree has some of the most needed school supplies you can shop for in store and online, including backpacks, lunch boxes, and organization essentials?
■ Front pocket zippered backpacks
■ Square polyester lunch bags (6x6x8 inches)
■ 2024 Desk Blotter Calender (11x17 inches)
■ Plastic Glitter Pencil Boxes (8x5x2.25 inches)
■ Mesh Organizer Pencil Pouches
■ Jot Binder Pencil Pouches (9.44x5.51 inches)
■ Printed Tin Pencil Boxes (8x2x1 inches)
■ Fashion 2-Pocket Portfolios with Prongs (9.5x11.5 inches)-Plastic & Nylon File Folders with Snap Closures (13x9.5 inches)
Writing Basics
When roaming Dollar Tree’s isles, you will find various eclectic and name-brand writing items for $1.25 each, compared to other corporate stores.
■ Crayola Colored Pencils (8-count)
■ Playskool Washable Markers (8-count)
■ Bic Round Stic Black Ink Pens (10-count)
■ Sharpie Fine-Point Permanent Markers (1-count)
■ Spiral Bound Notebooks (100 pages)
■ Fun-Shaped Erasers (12-count)
Back-to-school shopping isn’t just for parents. Dollar Tree has teachers covered, too, with various supplies to spice up any classroom. Here are Central Florida Lifestyle’s Dollar Tree recommendations for teachers.
Classroom Engagement
■ Answer Buzzers
■ Inflatable Globes
■ Math Flash Cards
■ Colorful Building Shapes
Classroom Organization
■ Teaching Tree Colorful Plastic Craft Caddies with Handles (6.5x4.5x4.75 inches)
■ Over-The-Chair Storage Pockets (13.75x15 inches)
■ Pocket Chart Schedulers (21.5x14 inches)
Classroom Decoration
■ Motivational Stickers
■ Holographic Metallic Borders (14-count)
■ Wall Maps of the USA (28x40 inches)
■ Bulletin Board Puzzle Decor (12-count)
Preparing for back-to-school shouldn’t break the bank. Whether you’re a teacher decorating a classroom or a parent packing a first-dayof-school backpack, discount stores like Dollar Tree are great alternatives to big brands that can cost double the amount.
Ioften talk about why Lake Nona is such an appealing place to live, work, and play, but now I want to talk about some of the work that goes into creating such an incredible community. It certainly doesn’t happen on its own!
The “Lake Nona vibe” is a common topic of discussion at events in other parts of Central Florida, and, of course, the incredible people here contribute to this energy. Some of the most talented people globally and world-class organizations contribute heavily to this “living lab.”
Tavistock Development is a forward-thinking organization that has invested in cutting-edge technology and innovation, which put Lake Nona on the world stage and established a thriving community. This planning, investment, and development has made Lake Nona a premier destination and a magnet for entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.
Lake Nona has some incredible business incubator and accelerator programs that help entrepreneurs
innovate and scale their businesses. These include the leAD Lake Nona Sports & Health Tech Accelerator and the UCF Life Sciences Incubator. As a direct result of these programs, Lake Nona is the home to some of the most innovative advancements in technology and health care today.
Each week, we see many business leaders from countries all over the world seeking to learn more about Lake Nona, how they can bring their businesses here, and even how to create similar communities in their native lands.
The Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce works to connect international business owners here in Central Florida with experts and a support network that can help them grow their enterprises here in the United States while working to serve their unique needs. The area is known for its technological advancements and for fostering a strong sense of community.
The incredible economic development in Lake Nona fosters an entrepreneurial spirit that lives in
the creative and ambitious people who work here or choose to call it home. It is a place where people support each other by providing access to ideas, expert advice, connections, and even leading to investment.
The idea of economic development is tricky. It is often difficult for people to understand this concept and how it has a lasting impact on the surrounding area. Simply put, economic development happens when we work to attract businesses, help existing businesses grow, and create and retain jobs.
Everyone wins when people work together to ensure decisions suit the business and the community.
For information about how to join the chamber or get the most out of your chamber membership, please get in touch with the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce at administration@lakenonacc.org or call us at 407-796-2230. We would love to hear from you!
National Black Business Month is celebrated in August, acknowledging their vital role in the community. As Central Florida continues to grow, more small and locally owned businesses start up their brand out of passion and with a bigger mission than just selling items and making a profit. The people who run these companies do so with devotion, enthusiasm and care. Here are a few you should know about.
One Saturday in 2008, after her undergraduate career, Trenessa Williams visited her favorite bookstore, which sold various African American literature. On that day, she noticed the store had closed and was inspired to open a place of her own.
After years of networking, researching and learning, Williams began Kizzy’s Books & More in 2018, a bookstore providing primarily African American literature, named after one of her favorite characters in the book “Roots” by author Alex Haley.
“My parents always told me and my siblings that no matter what we do, it’s either sink or swim. Sink or swim, meaning either you’re going to
swim, meaning you’re going to work hard on it to get to the level that you want it to be at, or sink, meaning that it just failed. I will say I did not know anything about owning a bookstore,” Williams said.
Her business runs primarily through their website, with occasional pop-ups around Central Florida. Eventually, Williams said she would like to open up a store in the Parramore area of Orlando due to its rich history and cultural background for the Orlando African American community.
From the genesis of Kizzy’s Books & More, she said she wanted to bring awareness and promote literacy, especially with books written by African American authors.
“Reading is the most powerful thing because if reading wasn’t so powerful, why would they ban books? Or try to restrict us on what we have access to read,” Williams said.“You know, reading is the gateway. It opens your imagination. When you’re a strong reader, you become empathetic because you know you’re reading different things, and you become knowledgeable, build on passion, and build on critical thinking. If you want to ask
In response to particular books and genres getting banned from school systems, Williams has a “banned or challenged books” tab on her website for customers to look at and purchase. She said she wants to be an outlet for readers to have new perspectives from their own.
“How do you learn about somebody’s viewpoint? If you’re only limited to your beliefs, you’re living a very narrow life, right? There’s no fun because you don’t understand somebody else’s life experiences, and that’s the fun part of learning about somebody because it broadens your perspective,” Williams said.
Visit https://www.kizzysbooksandmore.com/ for more information.
After facing a near-death experience giving birth to her daughter, Natalie Henry-Charles said she realized life is too short not to celebrate.
She said it took her about six months of recovery to feel like herself again. For that upcoming Mother’s Day, she said her sister found a class at the Orlando Museum of Arts which
her husband later purchased a spot for her as a gift. Henry-Charles said going to that class and experiencing her passion for art again was a “pivotal” thing for her and was a “breath of fresh air.”
“I remembered at that moment. I am so much more than a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister. I’m also me, and my passion is art. My passion is creating and being creative,” HenryCharles said.
In the class, she made a card for her mom. She had been creating custom designs for customers for a while but said she always wanted to create a product line. Thus, Pretty Peacock Paperie was born.
“I want it to be something that people can be happy when they look at it. I wanted women to feel empowered. I wanted people to understand how connected we are and how much we have to nurture our relationships,” Henry-Charles said. “One of the things that I also realized while experiencing the shift and transition into motherhood was that I needed my support system. I needed the people that really leaned into me. That’s why I chose greeting cards originally because I really wanted people to connect and foster those relationships and
take time out of their day.”
She said she sees the value in writing things to loved ones and expressing how we are feeling because, at the end of the day, “our words are our legacy.”
Learn more about Pretty Peacock Paperie at https://shopprettypeacock. com/.
Growing up with a passion for working with flowers Kimberly Brown, owner of Bloom In Glory, went into healthcare to get a “real job” per her mother’s request while still freelancing as a florist.
Once COVID-19 struck in 2020, Brown said she stressed about bringing any illnesses home to her family, where she had a one and threeyear-old. After much prayer and guidance, she decided to become a fulltime florist and pursue her dreams of owning a flower shop, especially since she found none near her in Wedgefield.
From her experience working in a hospital, she has grown empathy and said she has been able to heal her customers differently than if she was still in healthcare.
“I’m finding purpose, I say, like the sideline, I’m no longer on the frontline, but I’m on the sidelines,” Brown said. “Some of my old coworkers say, ‘You’re not here, but you’re there, and you’re still helping.’ Flowers are medicine.”
A scripture in Isaiah 35:2, which says, “It’ll burst into bloom,” inspires her shop name. As a woman of faith and working with flowers, she said this was fitting and hopes for her business to “continue to bloom in God’s glory.”
Visit https://bloominglory.com/ to learn more.
August is such a busy month. Whether you are wrapping up your family vacation, exploring the local area, or possibly beginning back to school shopping, here are a few places to explore while accomplishing your to-do list.
Cranes Roost Park
Cranes Roost Park is ideal for walking, picnicking, and enjoying a lovely gathering with family or friends. It is also a great place to exercise. If you are 18+ and want to work up a sweat, consider joining the Altamonte Fit Club on Wednesday evenings for free fitness classes brought to you by the City of Altamonte Springs, Emerson International, Inc. and AdventHealth.
Planet Obstacle
Sitting at 50,000 square feet, Planet Obstacle is the World’s Largest Indoor Obstacle Park. This park provides the perfect way to end the summer with a bang. Enjoy the onsite cafe after a day of connecting with others as the group participates in fun and challenging courses. Other activities include bumper cars, ziplining and more. The Last Day of Summer Pass ends on August 10.
Preparing for back to school is not only about what to wear but also how to wear it! Pamper yourself and look the part with a fresh manicure and pedicure! If you are in the East Orlando area and want to indulge in self-care while feeling at home, visit Poe, Helen, and Mina at Nail’d It Salon. The family-owned nail salon on Lee Vista Boulevard will surely make you feel welcome while delivering excellent service and quality results. Make a statement for the year!
The DRIPBaR Lake Nona
Are you feeling run down after the long summer? Need an energyinfused boost before the school year? The DRIPBaR, IV Spa in Lake Nona, could be a solution. IV infusions provide several benefits, including stronger immune systems, headache relief, anxiety relief, higher energy, and more.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is now open in The Winter Park Village. Jeni’s is the place to go after a long day of work or school for the children. Jeni’s aims to bring a new
standard to ice cream through a unique blend of savory flavors. Share Jeni’s tasty treats with family and friends; they will thank you.
Visit the Rollins Museum of Art through August 27 to enjoy the Together Again: Local and Global Connections Exhibit. The exhibit explores a series of works from the museum’s collection that address local and global connections in a digital era.
Want a quick pick-me-up without the extra calories while running errands? Infusion Tea, an organic tea café in College Park, provides a collection of loose-leaf teas. The café also offers an entirely vegetarian menu. Great for a healthy, busy day around town.
Sometimes the kids may need to release extra energy. Princeton Park is open daily until 9:00 p.m. Kids of all ages can enjoy playing outdoors or participating in extracurricular and youth programs offered by the park.
12 – August 16
Chefs Dinner with Celebrity Chef Roberto Trevino Marketplace at Avalon Park
13 –
18 – August 26
16 –August 23
21
You’re not just our patient. You’re our neighbor. For more than 70 years, Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital has been honored to provide nationally recognized care for the Central Florida region we proudly call home. And because it’s your home, too, you deserve trusted healthcare within reach, so we can foster a partnership focused on health and wellness — together. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/HealthCentral
