As we enter the year 2023, it is a time for reflection and renewal. The past year has brought many challenges and changes, and it is natural to feel a sense of uncertainty as we move forward. However, it is also a time to embrace change and to reset our goals.
One way to do this is to take a step back and reassess our priorities. What are the things most important to us? How can we align our actions with our values? What small changes can we make in our daily lives to move closer towards our goals?
To embrace change we must be open to new experiences and opportunities. We must get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Finally, it is important to remember that we are not alone on this journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is important to reach out for support when we need it. This is a time to connect with others and to build a community of support.
Let us embrace change and work towards becoming the best versions of ourselves. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2023!
Warm Regards, Alexis
6 HOMESTYLE How to Declutter Your Home for the New Year 10 YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED Health Care Directive for Kids It’s Important! 12 DANIEL’S CORNER The Purpose of Performing 14 TALK OF THE TOWN Conversations for Your Community 16 MONEY MATTERS
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There’s no better time than now to start a fresh slate and set resolutions. Here are a few New Year’s Resolutions to help motivate you at work.
26 DR. PHILLIPS CENTER PRESENTS “GREAT AMERICAN ORCHESTRA SERIES’ IN STEINMETZ HALL
Community member Josh Garrick recommends hearing three of the world’s greatest Orchestras in one of the world’s greatest concert halls in downtown Orlando.
40 7 ORLANDO EXPERIENCES THAT WILL REFRESH YOUR OUTLOOK ON THE CITY IN 2023
If you’re feeling bored in the same old city, perhaps it’s time to shake things up. Discover events and activities in Orlando that will keep you busy all year long.
Go to CentralFloridaLifestyle.com to see what’s happening near you!
Filing Taxes 101: Changes You Need to be Aware of 18 EXPERT ADVICE LAW Avoiding the Headaches and Heartaches of a Storm Damage Insurance Claim 20 SPORTS AND RECREATION Super Bowl in the South- True Southern Foods Your Guests Will Rave Over 22 SPORTS AND RECREATION NASCAR Celebrates 75 Years of Racing 24 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW Local Orlando Science Schools Teacher Receives the Yale Educator Award 28 DINING 3 Restaurants to Try in Orlando in 2023 30 DID YOU KNOW New Tipping Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts 32 DID YOU KNOW Curious About Sober Curious? 34 HEALTH + WELLNESS HITT and Yoga Great for Your Physical Health 36 HEALTH + WELLNESS Adolescent Eating Disorders Are on the Rise- What Parents Should Know 38 BEAUTY Anti-Aging Skincare Gimmicks in 2023 42 YOUR LOCAL THE DOLLY LLAMA to Celebrate its Grand Opening in Orlando 44 YOUR LOCAL A Construction Update on State Road 417 46 ON TREND Resolving the New Year 48 ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 6 Must-See Shows and Documentaries to Add to Your Watchlist 50 CALENDAR
Organizing your home is a great way to start the New Year on the right foot. All those items that have been lingering around, cluttering up the space and making it difficult to find what you need can be organized with some basic steps!
Start by setting goals for yourself. Do you want to clear out that backroom of extra items? Find a creative way to store all your paperwork? Get rid of old furniture and replace it with something more practical? Decide exactly what you would like to achieve and break down smaller tasks from there. Having a plan will make organizing much easier.
Once you’ve got your goals down, take an inventory of all the stuff in your home. You may find that you don’t need everything you have and can easily part with a few items. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take it one room at a time and focus on the task at hand. Get rid of any broken items or anything that is no longer useful - it will help to make your space look cleaner and more organized.
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, start organizing! Rearrange furniture where needed and think about better ways to store all your belongings. Utilize vertical storage solutions
if possible - this way, you’ll be making use of every inch of space in the room. Invest in some clever organizers such as stackable bins or drawer dividers for easy sorting of all those odds and ends. Finally, make sure to keep the organization! Take some time each week to put everything back in its place and you’ll find that organizing your home will be much easier. A little bit of effort now can save you a lot of stress later, so embrace your New Year’s resolution and start organizing today!
Here are some helpful organization tips.
1. Clothes: Put all your clothes in one big pile so you can see how much you really have. Next, hold each item individually and decide whether to keep or get rid of it, only keeping items that spark joy for you. You will hone your sensitivity to joy as you go through the process.
Tip! To best utilize drawer space and to see your clothes better, fold shirts and pants by creating a rectangle in the middle and folding it in half then into thirds. Store them standing up in the drawer instead of lying flat.
2. Books: Make sure you’re keeping books that you will read. Again, they
should spark joy in you when you hold them.
Tip! Keep your books visible. You will read them more if they’re in a spot where you can see them.
3. Paper: Put all papers into a pile and organize them into three categories: papers that need attention (bills), papers you need to keep short-term (warranties) and papers you need to keep forever (birth certificates). Then get rid of what you don’t need.
Tip! Subdivide your papers according to frequency. Put the infrequently used papers into a single ordinary clear plastic folder.
4. Miscellaneous: When organizing miscellaneous items, use small boxes to compartmentalize for neater drawers.
Tip! Keep items of the same size together and use tiny boxes to separate and store items.
5. Sentimental: Try putting all sentimental items to the side and saving them for last, when your joy and sensitivity is heightened.
Tip! When organizing your photos, categorize them by year and event so you can find them easier. Lastly, don’t buy storage containers before you tidy up and decide what you’re storing.
There’s no better time than now to start a fresh slate and set resolutions. It may be daunting at first, but just think of all the possibilities the new year can bring. Take some time to reflect on what you want out of 2023 and create an action plan.
This new year, make resolutions that stretch your boundaries and challenge you in areas where you are unsure of yourself or have room to grow. This could be anything from taking a course, learning a new skill, or mastering a task at work that makes you uncomfortable. By committing to pushing your limits and expanding your knowledge base, you can become more confident and motivated to excel at work.
It may not always be easy, but resolutions that challenge you offer the chance to succeed in ways you never thought possible! So, while you ponder which resolutions you will choose, here are a few New Year’s resolutions to help motivate you at work.
It’s a phrase we hear often, but how do you achieve it? Well, the answer isn’t easy. Balancing work and your personal life require dedication
and planning. An endless stream of emails doesn’t help either! It’s important to find ways to manage your time efficiently so that both your career and home life don’t suffer.
Write down all the tasks you need to carry out that day and prioritize them. This way, you can make sure that the most important things get done first and ensure that there will be time left over for your personal projects.
Working non-stop will just lead to burnout and fatigue. You should try to take regular breaks throughout the day so that you can recharge your batteries and come back with a clear head. Even taking 10 minutes away from work can make a big difference!
It can be easy to forget about your personal relationships when you’re working all the time. Try to make time for the people that are important to you, even if it is just a few hours each week.
Resolutions should be fun, so find resolutions outside of work that you personally enjoy and look forward to doing. This can help keep you engaged in the process while also helping you develop new skills or explore different interests. Whether it’s taking up painting, learning a language, or trying a new hobby, resolutions can be a great way to grow both professionally and personally.
Once resolutions are set, hold yourself accountable for meeting them! Plan by scheduling regular check-ins with yourself or a colleague or friend who can help track your progress. This is a great way to stay on track and motivated throughout the year.
Remember: New Year’s resolutions are only as effective as you make them. So, set resolutions that inspire and challenge you, keep yourself accountable for meeting them, and add some fun into the mix! With these tips in mind, take the leap and embrace resolutions that will make you a more confident and successful employee.
Happy resolutions!
It is the New Year,
It is complicated. Sadly, in the case of tragedy, more than 50% of all adults have no health care documents for themselves and most children have no such documents whatsoever. Consider the following examples.
Ainsley, 12 years old, went camping with her friend’s family. While hiking, Ainsley fell from a lakeside rope swing, landed headfirst on large rocks, and suffered brain trauma that needed immediate medical treatment. Because her parent’s friends caring for Ainsley had no authorization to give medical consent, Ainsley suffered for 48 hours until her parents could be reached and return from abroad to the hospital to authorize treatment. Had Ainsley’s parents prepared health care directives authorizing her friend’s parents to act as Ainsley’s health care surrogate, treatment could have been immediate.
Another example: Doris stopped planting flowers to answer her cell phone. A friend of her son at college, seven states away, gave her horrifying news that her son, Joshua, had seriously injured himself falling from a balcony at a fraternity party and was
taken by ambulance, unconscious, to the hospital. Doris immediately called the emergency room where her son was taken but was told that because Joshua was 18 years old and now an adult, Doris could not authorize treatment unless she had a health care directive naming her as Joshua’s surrogate.
To give his consent, Joshua, before leaving for college, would have had to prepare a health care directive naming his mother, Doris, as his surrogate.
The good news is that in 2020, Florida passed new laws enabling the signing and notarization of legal documents remotely with state approved document signing computer management programs and notaries who are certified to perform remote notary services. Today you may be halfway around the world and sign legal documents authorizing others to act on your behalf until you return home.
But don’t wait until you are far, far away. Meet with an estate planning attorney and prepare a health care directive for your children before you travel.
(407-363-9020).
Engaging in performing arts is often seen as a pathway to fame and fortune. But for two Central Florida students it’s a means of creating community, sharing feelings, and learning about the world around us.
Eighth-grader Carson Holley and DeLand High School senior Jaidyn Richardson are both W. Daniel Mills Apprentices on the performance track. The program is in its second year helping students connect with professionals while gaining valuable skills and training.
As one of the youngest apprentices, 14-year-old Holley had her sights set on getting into the program for a while. She wanted to audition last year but had to wait because she wasn’t old enough.
Holley landed her first role in La Boheme at age 6. “Not many kids would do three and a half hours of opera in Italian and think to themselves: ‘This is what I want to do with my life!’ but I did,” Holley says.
Holley is enrolled in The Classical School at First Academy, a nontraditional educational program for students who need more flexibility due to athletic, training, or performing schedules. Currently, Holley at-
tends school in person only two days a week freeing her up for singing gigs at Estefan Kitchen at the Margaritaville Resort, Best of British Pub, and Disney Springs.
“I see performance as a way to bring to life everything from important topics to fun, silly ones. It’s a way to see things you’ve never seen before and a way to see yourself. I can’t think of a better way to communicate or connect with others,” Holley says.
Both Holley and Richardson agree that the apprenticeship is a unique opportunity for performing arts students to learn their craft while earning and working alongside professionals. “My choir teacher Mr. Ross Cawthon taught me that an amateur practices until he gets it right, a professional practices until he gets it wrong.” Richardson explains what that means is that perfection is not the goal, learning is.
Maybe that’s why Richardson’s dream role is Usnavi from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights”. Richardson likens the character Usnavi’s desire to return to the Dominican Republic as an actor’s aim for perfection, but like Usnavi, Richardson finds everything he needs is already there.
“That’s the soul of performing, learn-
ing in the moment,” Richardson says.
Richardson says he feels fortunate to have been accepted into the apprenticeship and is excited to learn about all aspects of theater. From set design and writing to lighting and directing, Richardson says the masterclasses are already expanding his performance skills.
He recently participated in the Orlando Rep’s Funikijam Show, a musical, sing-along, play-along show for younger children. “You know little kids are unpredictable, which is what all live theater is, really,” Richardson says. “As a performer you have to be prepared to handle it. I learned so much from [the kids]. I feel like they had a special connection.” In fact, after one of his performances one little boy told him that he wanted to do what Richardson did when he grew up.
Open to either continuing his performing arts education in college or starting a singing, dancing, and/ or acting career right out of high school, Richardson says he’s grateful to his parents for always supporting him. “They can see that this is not just about being a star or something like that for me. I don’t want to perform just to impress. My hope is to inspire others,” Richardson says.
Hello 2023! The New Year is always a good time to reset goals, try something new, and form good habits that will last. Here are a few recommendations to get you started.
Many of us in our professional lives have not understood nor practiced the use of eye contact and using first names when discussing business with customers or potential clients. To strengthen communication, remember to be intentional and try to incorporate these two skill sets during the next few months.
To nurture your friendships, remember that conversations need to feature “two-way communication”. Sincere listening to others and responding to the topic will build and foster meaningful friendships.
A vacation funding tip for 2023: Start a “vacation account” at your financial institution or at your home. Next, set a realistic goal each month/week to deposit/transfer to this “building memories” account. Practicing this savings method offers a stress-free vacation (and this tip helps you to avoid post vacation debt).
It’s not too late to set a 2023 goal of reducing personal debt Zero debt, or near zero debt truly equals financial freedom. There are hundreds of “experts” on this subject to be found on the internet - however my preference is the principle of Dave Ramsey (www. ramseysolutions.com).
It’s never too early to plan, so please add these three key dates to your February calendar:
Super Bowl Sunday: February 12 (should you plan a party?)
Valentine’s Day: Tuesday, February 14 (make dinner reservations now)
3 Day Weekend: February 18-20 (let’s consider an Orlando stay-cation)
As you know, an unfortunate trend in our society is the theft of credit card information at gas station pumps. To avoid this extremely frustrating and time-consuming experience, pre-purchase gas cards at your local retailer.
A simplistic business tip that professionals have used for years, is to sincerely offer a written card or email daily, to a deserving co-worker or client Expressing meaningful gratitude builds and maintains professional relationships.
Tax season is upon us. Here are the changes you should be aware of before filing taxes this year along with a few tips to simplify the process.
1. Reporting Rules for Form 1099-K.
In the past, Form 1099-K was only issued for third party network transactions if “the total number of transactions exceeded $200 for the year and if the aggregate amount of those transactions exceeded $20,000”. Today, a single transaction exceeding $600 can require the third-party platform to issue a 1099-K.
Note: Money transferred between friends and family for gifts, personal expenses or reimbursements are still nontaxable.
In 2021, taxpayers with dependents received $3,600 per dependent for the Child Tax Credit. This year, they will only receive $2,000 if eligible. Taxpayers with no children received approximately $1,500 in 2021 for the Earned Income Tax Credit. This year, that price will be reduced to $500. The maximum Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit was $8,000 in 2021. It will now return to a maximum of $2,100.
3.
An above-the-line deduction is an expense that can be deducted from a taxpayer’s gross income before calculating their adjusted gross income (AGI). This type of deduction is available to all taxpayers regardless of whether they itemize their deductions or take the standard deduction. Examples of above-the-line deductions include contributions to a traditional IRA, student loan interest, alimony payments, and certain business expenses. But unlike during Covid-19, if you take a standard deduction this year, you will not be allowed to take an above-the-line deduction for charitable donations.
4. Expanded Eligibility for the Premium Tax Credit.
The Premium Tax Credit is a refundable tax credit that helps eligible individuals and families afford health insurance purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Under the American Rescue Plan, eligibility for the Premium Tax Credit was expanded to individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. So, for the 2022 tax year, taxpayers may still qualify for temporarily expanded eligibility.
5. Eligibility Rules to Claim Tax Credit for Clean Vehicles.
Due to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, there will be significant changes to the eligibility rules for tax credits available for clean vehicles in 2023. Changes include a new final assembly requirement and transi-
tion rules for vehicles bought before August 16, 2022. There is also updated information about vehicles bought and delivered between August 16, 2022, and December 31, 2022.
Simple Tips for Filing Taxes:
■ Gather necessary documents: Before beginning the tax process, make sure you have all your important documents such as W-2s and 1099s ready. This will make it easier to complete your taxes quickly and accurately.
■ Take advantage of online services: Many tax preparation software programs are available online that can help make filing taxes simpler and less stressful. These programs often supply helpful guidance throughout the filing process and can even be used to file taxes electronically for free or for a small fee.
■ Double-check for mistakes: Before submitting taxes, it’s a good idea to double-check all the information provided on the form or online taxes program to ensure everything is correct and complete. This could help reduce any potential issues that may occur in the future.
It is no secret that filing taxes can be a daunting and complicated process, but with the right information and tips it doesn’t have to be. Visit irs.gov for more advice on how to get ready for tax season!
By Michael B. Brehne, Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A
It’s been a few months since two hurricanes wreaked havoc across Central Florida. Insurance companies have received thousands of claims and pursuant to Florida law, they have 90 days to make a claim decision. They must also supply prompt responses to your written communications and keep you apprised of the claims process.
If you have received a denial of your claim, it is time to contact an insurance claim attorney. There is a formal process to notify the insurance company of your intent to initiate litigation that must be followed before a lawsuit can be filed. This is a “second chance” for the insurance company to review your claim and respond by either reversing their decision and paying the claim, continuing to deny the claim, requesting a re-inspection of your home, or requesting an alternative dispute resolution such as mediation or appraisal. An insurance claim attorney can initiate the process and guide you through the pre-suit steps.
If your claim is currently being investigated or under review, be sure to read any correspondence from your insurance company carefully and be sure to provide them with whatever additional information they request during this process. Specifically, look out for requests for a sworn proof-ofloss, which is a document that the homeowner would fill out, usually
with the aid of a contractor or public adjuster, laying out the value of the lost property and the cost for repairs.
Oftentimes the insurance company will only give you 60 days to complete this and try to deny your claim when you do not supply a response before the deadline.
Another technique the insurance companies are using to delay or deny claims is to insist that the parties attend a mediation or an appraisal. If your insurance company has demanded mediation or appraisal, you should consider having a public adjuster or an insurance claim attorney represent you in either one of these types of claim resolution. The insurance company will have professionals representing them during appraisal or mediation and it would be helpful to have a professional on your side advising you.
“Short pays” are also very common. This occurs when your damages exceed the amount the insurance company is willing to pay for them and you do not have sufficient money to make necessary repairs. This is most often the case when the insurance company either believes that your roof (for example) can be repaired when it must be replaced, or when they claim that only one part of the home requires repair when most of the home does. In these instances, it would also help you to hire an insurance claim attorney to
demonstrate to the insurance company the true value of the damages that occurred during the storm so that you can be paid appropriately.
If you’re still fighting with your insurance company, don’t let them wear you down, don’t give in and settle for less than you deserve. It may be time to bring in an insurance claim attorney, so you’re taken seriously. L
For more information, give us a call at 407-645-2195 or visit StormClaimAttorney.com
Over the years, the Super Bowl has evolved from a simple football game into a cultural phenomenon. As a result, the parties surrounding the event have also evolved. In the early days, Super Bowl parties were small gatherings of friends and family members coming together to watch the game and enjoy each other’s company. In these humble beginnings, snacks were simple and straightforward. Excited fans would munch on chips and dip, peanuts, and maybe some popcorn or pretzels.
Nowadays, Super Bowl parties are often large, extravagant affairs, complete with elaborate decorations, themed food and drink, and a range of entertainment options. There are all sorts of fancy dips, wings, pizza, and even sushi.
But no matter how fancy the snacks may have become, one thing remains the same: the Super Bowl is still a time for friends and family to gather around the TV and enjoy some tasty treats while cheering on their favorite team. So, in true southern fashion, Super Bowl spreads in the South often feature a variety of delicious and indulgent dishes. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or just looking for some tasty treats to enjoy
during the big game, these southerninspired recipes are sure to be a hit.
One popular southern dish that is perfect for game day is fried chicken. This classic recipe is made by coating chicken pieces in a mixture of flour, seasonings, and buttermilk, and then frying them in hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown. Serve the fried chicken with a side of creamy coleslaw and tangy hot sauce for a delicious combination of flavors.
Another southern favorite that is perfect for the Super Bowl is shrimp and grits. This dish is made by cooking shrimp in a flavorful broth and then serving them over a bed of creamy grits. To make the grits, simply bring water and milk to a boil, then slowly stir in cornmeal. Cook the grits over low heat until they are thick and creamy, then stir in butter and cheese for added flavor.
For a tasty snack, try making southern-style pork rinds. These crispy treats are made by cooking pork skin in hot oil until it puffs up and becomes crispy. Once they are cooked, season the pork rinds with your favorite spices, such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Serve the pork rinds with a side of hot sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty snack that is
sure to be a hit with your guests.
Another delicious recipe that is perfect for the Super Bowl is jambalaya. This hearty dish is made by combining rice, shrimp, chicken, and sausage in a flavorful tomato-based broth. To make the jambalaya, simply sauté the vegetables and meats in a large pot, then add the rice and broth. Cook the jambalaya over low heat until the rice is cooked, and the flavors have melded together. Serve the jambalaya with a side of hot sauce or your favorite Cajun seasonings for added flavor.
For those looking for a sweet treat to round out their Super Bowl feast, Chef Kyle Johnson of Johnson’s Bakery in Kissimmee has created a mouthwatering dessert option. His chocolate chip cookie dough dip, made with creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and chocolate chips, is served with an assortment of cookies and fruit for dipping.
With these delicious recipes your Super Bowl party is sure to be a tasty and unforgettable event. So, grab your favorite team’s jersey, invite some friends over, and enjoy the game with a spread of delicious and unique dishes.
Throughout the 2023 season
NASCAR will be celebrating its 75th anniversary, recognizing the pioneers and innovators who paved the way for the iconic American sport to be what it is today. Throughout its storied 75-year history, NASCAR has evolved from a regional pastime to an international phenomenon. Generations of drivers have pushed themselves and their cars to their limits in pursuit of victory. Their remarkable legacies will continue to shape the future of motorsports in the ever-evolving world of competitive racing.
This 75th anniversary also marks an important milestone for NASCAR’s world-renowned fan base. Their unwavering passion for the sport is a true differentiator for NASCAR and avid fans often travel from all around the world to attend races and cheer on their favorite drivers. In recent years, NASCAR has made tremendous efforts to continue growing the fanbase by taking risks such as hosting races in new markets. For example, NASCAR will host an exhibition race inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the second consecutive season and will host a street course race in downtown Chicago later this year.
NASCAR has embraced new challenges and turned them into opportunities. As part of this anniversary season in 2023, it will be introducing several changes such as enhanced safety protocols and updated rules. These updates will not only further enhance competition on the track, but also assure fans can enjoy racing safely and securely for many years to come.
As has been a long-standing tradition, NASCAR will kick off its 2023 regular season right here in Central Florida with its flagpole event, the DAYTONA 500. The prestigious race will take place at the Daytona International Speedway, just miles down the road from where the sports founder, Bill France Sr., held a meeting at the Streamline Hotel in 1947 that led to the birth of NASCAR.
To this day, the France family not only remains the primary stakeholders, but continue to have influence on the sports future endeavors. NASCAR’s Senior Vice President, Racing Development & Strategy is Ben Kennedy, the great-grandson of founder, Bill France Sr., and son of Executive Vice Chair, Lesa France Kennedy. Ben has played a vital role in the company’s efforts to grow the sport, namely as the architect behind the series sched-
ule the past few seasons, regarded as one of the most dynamic the sport has seen in 50 years.
As NASCAR celebrates its 75th anniversary, let us take a moment to thank the countless drivers and fans who have kept this iconic American sport alive for so long. From the visionaries of the past to the innovators of today, their dedication has been integral to the success of NASCAR over the past 75 years. We can only look forward to what lies ahead as they continue to shape motorsports into an even brighter future.
Abdulkerim Akyalcin, an Orlando Science Schools math teacher, was awarded the prestigious Yale Educator Award for his exceptional work in education. Akyalcin has been teaching math at the school since 2011 and became the Mathematics Department Head in 2013. In this role, he has taught and led professional development seminars for faculty, designed curriculum and conducted summer-school sessions in competition math and SAT preparation.
Akyalcin is also known for his work as a competition math coach, Mu Alpha Theta sponsor and an AP calculus exam reader. When asked what inspired him to pursue a career in teaching, Akyalcin explained that he was always good at math and loved solving challenging problems that promoted critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
He also has a competitive nature and fell in love with math competitions while in middle school. He wanted to continue to do what he loves and share his passion with younger generations. He was rewarded for his efforts in 2015 when he was honored with the Raytheon Company’s “Math Heroes” award, which is given to only 25 teachers across the country.
“I received that award for preparing my students for various math
competitions that excite and motivate them to pursue careers that include mathematics. Throughout the years I have trained many talented students for various math competitions. I and my students have shared similar passions towards competition mathematics,” Akyalcin says. “Over the years each of my students became a better problem solver and wanted to major in stem related areas. Competing in math competitions helped them gain confidence and led them to pursue majors at top universities like Yale, MIT and Harvard. Many of my students are now attending or have already graduated from those institutions.”
His impact has come full circle as Akyalcin shares that he was recommended for the Yale Educator Award by one of his former students who is now studying at Yale University. “I was honored and proud. The best part of my job is seeing my students achieve great things. As a teacher, receiving an award like this reminds you that we are doing a crucial job for society and our commitment to our job is recognized,” he says.
Akyalcin continues to use several strategies to engage his students in the classroom. He teaches college-level math courses, such as AP Calculus AB and BC, at a very academically focused school with many talented and
gifted students. Many of his students are already motivated to do their best, but Akyalcin believes that enthusiasm is contagious. By being excited and engaged with the topic he is teaching, he can inspire his students to join him.
For aspiring teachers, Akyalcin has this message: “I will share the same advice that I give to my students; do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life. I always tell my students that the cool thing about being a teacher is that you never say you go to work, teachers say they go to school.”
Despite the many challenges he has faced as a teacher, such as balancing his job responsibilities with parenting, Akyalcin remains dedicated to his students and continues to inspire them to excel in the field of mathematics.
“It takes a lot of time and work to create curriculum, teach, be engaged with classrooms, produce questions for assessments, spend time grading these assessments and then having to spend hours writing individual student plans and replying to emails,” Akyalcin says. “Teachers are looking to be provided with enough time so that they can focus on teaching and promoting the importance of education and learning.”
Hear three of the world’s greatest Orchestras in one of the world’s greatest concert halls in downtown Orlando.
By Josh GarrickIn yet another triumph for our extraordinary Dr. Phillips Center, three of the world’s greatest orchestras will perform in the NEW Steinmetz Hall – a performance space that is already being called one of the world’s great concert halls.
In one brilliant series, three of the nation’s greatest orchestras will travel to Orlando to perform in Steinmetz Hall for the new “Great American Orchestra Series.” The internationally renowned ensembles of the Chicago Symphony, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Cleveland Orchestra will bring their grand orchestral sound to the Dr. Phillips Center’s acoustically remarkable space in January and February 2023 - an experience traditionally available only in legendary places like New York City’s Carnegie Hall -- until now.
The idea for the series is brilliant on several levels –not only in terms of allowing the orchestral audience of Central Florida to experience these legendary orchestras here in Orlando, but in a more subtle way the performances will introduce the Orchestra PLAYERS and Conductors from these great orchestras to hear for themselves the unparalleled sound of the new Steinmetz Hall.
Kathy Ramsberger, president & CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center, said, “It’s a great way to celebrate the oneyear anniversary of Steinmetz Hall by presenting some of the nation’s most accomplished musicians and showcasing their sounds in the one-of-a-kind concert hall.”
The series will begin on Sunday, January 22 at 3 pm with the ensemble which the New York Times has called “America’s finest orchestra.” It has been said that the sublime “sound” of the Cleveland Orchestra, which turned 100 in 2018, comes from the extraordinary relationship between the Orchestra and their Conductor Franz Welser-Möst. The 21-year collaboration is widely acknowledged among the best orchestra-conductor partnerships of today. The extraordinary Program Weiser-Most will bring to Orlando will include SCHUBERT’s Symphony No. 8 (“Unfinished”) and TCHAIKOVSKY’s Symphony No. 6 (“Pathétique”).
Famous for the richness of their “full bodied” tone, and the innovation of their programming, the Philadelphia Orchestra will perform on Friday, February 17 at 7:30 pm with principal guest conductor Nathalie Stutzmann. The news of Stutzman’s appearance on the program is special for several reasons including the fact that the French singerconductor will be the orchestra’s first female conductor as well as the first woman conductor to lead an orchestra in Steinmetz Hall. Joined by guest violinist Gil Shahan, the Orchestra will perform the BRAHMS Violin Concerto on a program that includes DVORAK’S Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”).
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra will conclude the Great American Orchestra Series on Tuesday, February 28 at 7:30 pm with the renowned Italian Conductor and Music Director Riccardo Muti. During Muti’s 10-year- tenure, the Orchestra has nurtured its legacy while supporting a new generation of musicians and composers. Audience members for the Chicago Symphony will experience the Orchestra’s famous depth of sound and always-exciting programming when Muti takes the stage to perform BEETHOVEN’S “Coriolan Overture” and Symphony No. 8. The evening will conclude with MUSSORGSKY’s evocatively colorful and exciting “Pictures at an Exhibition.”
For tickets visit drphillipscenter.org/events
The Great American Orchestra Series in Steinmetz Hall:
The Cleveland Orchestra Sunday, January 22 at 3 p.m. Franz Welser-Möst, conductor Program to include: SCHUBERT — Symphony No. 8 (“Unfinished”) TCHAIKOVSKY — Symphony No. 6 (“Pathétique”)
The Philadelphia Orchestra Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m. Nathalie Stutzmann, conductor Gil Shaham, violin Program to include: BRAHMS — Violin Concerto (Gil Shaham, violin) DVOŘÁK — Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”)
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Tuesday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m. Riccardo Muti, conductor Program to include: BEETHOVEN — Coriolan Overture BEETHOVEN — Symphony No. 8 LYADOV — The Enchanted Lake MUSSORGSKY — Pictures at an Exhibition
If you haven’t done so by now, take a leap of faith and visit these places for a fun and fulfilling dining experience.
By Erica Rudnick Macalintal
The new year has arrived, and with it, the possibilities of trying new cuisines! There are plenty of opportunities to do so in Orlando, and these new restaurants serve up great variety and fun.
728 N. Thornton Ave. Orlando, FL 32803
Edoboy opened in late 2022 and has garnered praise for its standup, low-pretense, super-high-quality sushi. Located off Mills / 50 right behind Lazy Moon pizza, it was inspired by the owner’s travels throughout Japan. The sushi bar serves eight standing patrons at a time and offers a rotating beer and sake menu. Once arrived, you are served sushi prepared right in front of you by your own personal chef. One can appreciate the freshness of the daily catch and the quality of the rice, all made by professionals who know their craft very well. Delicious miso soup is also made in-house from the bones of the fish used in sushi preparation. Make sure you book a reservation time slot, since walk-ins are not accepted.
Juju
700 Maguire Blvd. Orlando, FL 32803
JuJu is another restaurant with great things happening. Recently opened by the same team that brought you Susuru on Palm Parkway, the new restaurant took the spot of an old Pizza Hut on Maguire Blvd just north of the Milk District. Boasting both a kappo bar and an izakaya dining room, the location has become a quiet sensation with patrons lining up outside for a chance to try the cuisine.
Decor is vivid and authentic, including Japanese street signs and vintage Astro-boy figurines. Kappo restaurants offer a very specific dining experience, in which the term “omakase” or “I leave it up to you” denotes that the diner trusts the chef’s expertise to serve them the best food in the house, and so these seats require reservations. The izakaya dining room serves small plates to accompany fantastic in-house cocktails (including one served in a vintage Pizza Hut cup) and accepts walk-ins at varying hours Wednesday through Sunday.
4205-B Curry Ford Rd. Orlando, FL 32806
Once you’ve had your sushi fix, try Bad As’s Burgers, which recently opened in Curry Ford West just south of the Milk District. Specializing in Wagyu beef from Australia for the ultimate comfort food, the restaurant is run by the same owner as the wildly popular Bad As’s Sandwiches on Primrose Drive, which has been an Orlando staple for some time. Huge portions are hidden inside the small space, and in addition to burgers the restaurant offers French fries cooked in beef tallow, which create a superior flavor to accompany the burgers. Although the fries are perfectly addicting on their own, there is a wide variety of house-made sauces for dipping, and dessert milkshakes make the experience even more satisfying. The location on Curry Ford Road is open seven days a week, requires no reservations and offers exceptional service.
The coronavirus pandemic has drastically changed the way many people tip in America. Although tipping etiquette has been around for centuries, the recent health crisis has thrown a wrench into the traditional rules of what is considered polite when it comes to leaving gratuities.
In recent years, an increasing number of restaurants have adopted a no-tipping policy, which means that all tips are automatically included in the bill. This model eliminates any confusion over how much you should leave and helps ensure servers receive a fair wage. However, even with notipping policies becoming more common in some establishments, other restaurants still rely on customers to make up the difference between their employees’ wages and cost of living expenses.
Now that the pandemic restrictions are beginning to subside and restaurants are opening again, it’s important to be mindful of the tipping etiquette. While there is no set amount you should leave when dining out, a general rule of thumb is
20% for good service and 15% for average service. Of course, if you feel your server went above and beyond or had to put in extra effort during your visit, you can tip more than that.
It’s also important to consider other factors when deciding how much to tip. For example, if the restaurant has implemented any special safety protocols due to Covid-19, keep this in mind and adjust your gratuity accordingly. Additionally, if you have a large party or spend a considerable amount of time dining, it’s only polite to leave something extra for the server.
As far as spa services are concerned, it’s generally acceptable to leave a 15-20% tip for services such as massage and facial treatments — unless there is an outright no-tip policy in place. Whether you want to leave a little extra cash is up to you; however, many spa professionals rely heavily on tips for their livelihood. So, if you received great service and felt taken care of throughout the experience, don’t hesitate to show your appreciation!
Finally, what about takeout or delivery orders? It’s becoming increasingly popular to tip for takeout
and delivery services, especially in America. Generally, you can leave a 15-20% tip if the service was exceptional — but it is not mandatory. If a restaurant already includes an automatic gratuity on your bill, then it’s up to you whether you’d like to add more for great service.
At the end of the day, tipping is meant to show appreciation for excellent service. Whether it’s at a restaurant, spa experience or even when ordering food online — use your best judgment and follow local customs when deciding how much to leave behind! With these guidelines in mind, you’re sure to make the most of your tipping experience.
Overall, because of Covid-19, tipping etiquette in America requires thoughtful consideration and empathy. Remember that your server is likely dealing with unique challenges due to the pandemic and may be working harder than ever before. Feel free to show your appreciation for their hard work by leaving an extra generous tip!
Maybe you’ve heard about the book “Sober Curious” by Ruby Warrington. Or maybe a celebrity mentioned their own sober curiosity on a podcast. Whatever piqued your interest, you’ve come to the right place to learn more about being sober curious.
According to Warrington, sober curious means choosing “to question or get curious about every impulse, invitation, and expectation to drink versus mindlessly going along with the dominant drinking culture.”
There are also subcategories of this movement. Mindful drinking can be defined as making a mindful decision about each drink, while sober consciousness is the awareness of why you are not drinking.
If you want to dip your toe into this to-drink-or-not-to-drink trend a good place to start is with a few key questions: Why do I want to drink? How will I feel if I drink? What will happen if I don’t drink?
Before starting this journey, you should be free of an alcohol dependency diagnosis and as with any health or lifestyle change, it’s best to talk to your healthcare professional.
The physical and psychological health benefits of even temporarily not drinking are immense. In a 2020 study conducted by psychologists at the University of Liverpool and the University of Sheffield, respondents who participated in “Dry January” (not drinking for the month of January) found their high blood pressure was reduced, that they lost weight, slept better, were more productive at work, felt happier, and had more energy.
Many of these findings should not be surprising since alcohol is a central nervous system depressant as well as a toxin. In addition, recently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with other credible health institutions, have become skeptical of the purported benefits of alcohol. Meanwhile, there are several additional perks to not drinking.
Dr. Vitaly Blatnoy, a Central Florida dermatologist, says limiting or cutting out alcohol all together can help reduce the appearance of aging on skin as well as diminish acne and rosacea breakouts. Likewise, a study conducted by the University
of Texas - Austin and Brown University found that alcohol abstainers had better mental health and little to no major depressive episodes compared to heavy, binge, and chronic drinkers.
The classification of moderate, heavy, binge and chronic drinkers is not made arbitrarily. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, moderate drinking is having one or less standard drinks for women per day and two or less standard drinks for men per day, and not drinking daily. A standard drink is any beverage containing 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol. This amounts to 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine and 1 1/2 ounce of 80 proof spirits.
Any amount of drinking alcohol beyond the moderate level can increase the risk of a variety of health problems including cancer, liver disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and pancreatitis. Also, alcohol can weaken your immune system, making your body a much easier target for diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other infections.
What does it mean to be sober curious and what benefits are there to this popular trend?
The National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking alcohol that brings one’s blood alcohol concentration to 0.08 or higher. This corresponds to drinking five or more drinks in about two hours for a man and drinking about four or more drinks for a woman in the same timeframe.
The category NIAAA refers to as heavy alcohol use is drinking four or more drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week for men and three or more drinks any day or more than seven drinks per week for women. Both categories are associated with alcohol use disorder, a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and a preoccupation with alcohol.
Discovering which drinking category you fall under can be surprising. Don’t let that stop you from continuing to be curious. There are more questions you can ask yourself before attending an event where an abundance of alcohol and drinking may occur: Am I expected to drink by my friends or my family? What happened the last time I had a drink? Can I have
fun without drinking? Am I anxious, if so, is there another way I can help myself relax?
You may find that choosing not to drink can be difficult to do when you’re around others who are drinking. Some sober curious adherents recommend taking up a hobby, finding like-minded people to hang out with, playing board games/cards, volunteering at an organization you care about, meditation and journaling, or starting a regular exercise routine.
Nina Dalo from Lake Mary says she became sober curious because she felt like alcohol was stealing her time. “If I have a drink with dinner, I don’t want to get up at five to go to the gym. I started being sober curious to see how much of my time I’d get back.” Now, two years later with only a handful of drinks in between, Dalo says she’s got a lot of time back and is happy with her choice not to drink.
JM (who wanted to remain anonymous), is a medical professional from Dr. Phillips, and only drinks occasionally. JM says they tried out “Dry January” a few years ago just to see what it was like. For JM the experiment was a success. “It taught me to be conscious and mindful about each drink I take or don’t take,” they say.
■ Why do I want to drink?
■ How will I feel if I drink?
■ What will happen if I don’t drink?
■ Am I expected to drink by my friends or my family?
■ What happened the last time I had a drink?
■ Can I have fun without drinking?
■ Am I anxious, if so, is there another way I can help myself relax?
■ Reduce the appearance of aging on skin ■ Diminish acne and rosacea breakouts ■ Better mental health
Little to no major depressive episodes
at work
■ Take up a hobby
Hang out with other nondrinkers ■ Start a regular exercise routine
Play board games/cards ■ Volunteer at an organization you care about
Meditate and journal
Start a regular exercise routine
The new year is here, and with it our New Year’s resolutions! One of the most common resolutions is to become more physically fit, and while challenging, there are many ways to achieve it. Here are a few ways that you can reach your physical fitness goals in 2023.
If you are looking for a workout that gives you the greatest gains for your effort, look no further than HIIT. HIIT is short for high intensity interval training, which consists of brief bursts of vigorous exertion followed immediately by short periods of rest, working the muscle group to its maximum ability. HIIT also encourages excess postoxygen consumption (EPOC), which, in lay terms, means that your body continues to burn calories at a higher rate after a HIIT workout than it would after other exercises.
HIIT can involve a variety of equipment, including weights, resistance bands, BOSU balls, abdominal rollers, battle ropes, treadmills, rowing machines, stationary bikes, and more. This doesn’t mean that you need a home gym to do HIIT, but these tools are a great way to take the workout to further levels, since they help increase endurance and agility, build muscle, and burn calories. HIIT is a challenging workout that requires perseverance, but it’s incredibly effective and efficient.
Although HIIT is intense, there is no expectation for you to be in beast mode during your first workout. In the beginning, take advantage of modifications, lower weights, and shorter, less intense bursts of energy. Don’t worry – you’ll become stronger but ensure that your level of intensity is just challenging enough for where you are today. Form and alignment are also critical, since making a move incorrectly both reduces its effectiveness and increases risk of injury. If in doubt, ask your instructor for modifications.
Taking classes is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to HIIT. Gyms like Crunch Fitness and YMCA offer HIIT classes, so check your local branches for their availability. Gyms that specialize in HIIT can be especially beneficial for newcomers since instructors are specifically trained in the practice. Orange Theory is one of the more well-known facilities offering HIIT classes, with locations throughout Orlando. XYMOGYM on Kingspointe Parkway is an outstanding gym that specializes in HIIT, including regular classes focused on various muscle groups. The facilities are pristine, and the trainers are extremely knowledgeable in modifications and the science behind the moves. They also offer InBody scans, an exact, in-depth way to track your progress.
Yoga is an extraordinary practice. It includes stretching, breathing, and alignment through a variety of poses that are either held for several moments or “flowed through.” Although the movements of yoga are slower and more intentional, yoga can be just as intense on your muscles, even if it does not raise your heart rate as high as HIIT or other exercises might.
There are many benefits of yoga. It affects many physiological systems, including musculo-skeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, lymphatic, uro-genital, fascial, and more. While yoga can be done independent of other exercises for its benefits to these systems, it can also boost the benefits of your more intense workouts. In any capacity, yoga is always a good idea.
to Expect as a Beginner
Yoga is great for beginners, with many moderations and props to assist you. Just like with HIIT, proper form is essential not only to avoid injury, but also to ensure that muscle groups are appropriately activated. Yoga makes use of straps, bolsters, blankets, and blocks to make the stretches deeper and help with limited flexibility (when you can’t reach your toes or the floor, props will “bring the floor to you”). Almost all yoga props are available in varying shapes and sizes to accommodate all body types.
At your first class, make sure you bring a mat, towel, and water. Tell your instructor you’re a beginner, and they will be happy to offer props, modifications, or corrections. Some instructors do hands-on modifications, meaning that they will gently touch you to correct your posture or push a stretch a little further. This is totally optional – instructors can just as easily talk you through a modification if you let them know what you’re comfortable with.
Just like HIIT, most gyms like YMCA and Crunch Fitness offer yoga classes, from flow (more fast-paced) to yin (slower, with poses held for longer). The Peaceful Peacock in the Hourglass District is a beautiful studio that focuses on intentional inclusivity with daily classes for yogis of all levels. Maitland Harmony Yoga just north of Winter Park is another fantastic option that offers yin, flow, and hatha. Both studios have drop-in rates and often run specials for new students. In addition to HIIT classes, XYMOGYM also offers yin yoga for recovery.
New Year’s resolutions can be daunting, but with a little courage and dedication, you can crush your goals and get results.
If you’re a parent of a teenager, you may be wondering what the best way is to deal with their sudden change in eating habits. You’re not alone- research shows that adolescent eating disorders are on the rise. Here we’ll explore what parents should know about adolescent eating disorders and how to best support their child.
An adolescent eating disorder is an illness where a person experiences severe disturbances in their eating habits.
Adolescent eating disorders are not just complicated dietary choices but can be related to mental illness. They involve extreme behaviors like severe restriction of food intake or binging and purging. If a teen suffers from this disorder, the effects can be long lasting and require immediate attention. It is important that parents and guardians recognize the warning signs and take steps to support adolescents suffering from an eating disorder. Treatment for eating disorders can involve individual, family and group therapy and nutrition counseling to help adolescents recover from the physical and emotional complications of this condition.
Eating disorders are much more common in girls than boys, with rates of up to three times higher.
Eating disorders are particularly prevalent in girls. Research has shown
that up to three times as many girls suffer from such conditions compared to boys. Unfortunately, these conditions have become increasingly common over time due to the body image pressures on this demographic, which can manifest in extreme behaviors towards food, exercise, and weight management. Although eating disorders can affect anyone of any age, gender or background, young women remain the most vulnerable when it comes to developing disordered eating behavior.
The most common types of adolescent eating disorders include anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are the most prevalent types of adolescent eating disorders. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by low body weight, even though the individual may have a normal or higher than average appetite. Those dealing with this disorder deny themselves food, sometimes to dangerously low levels. Conversely, bulimia nervosa involves consistently overeating followed by purging or other compensatory behaviors to avoid gaining weight. Both disorders can have dangerous side effects and should be addressed if anyone suspects they may be suffering from either one. Fortunately, there are treatments available that are proven to help those struggling with eating disorders find their way back to health.
Symptoms of adolescent eating disorders can include drastic weight loss or gain, preoccupation with food and body image, and extreme mood swings.
Adolescent eating disorders can have a wide range of symptoms that, if left untreated, could lead to long term physical and mental health issues. Eating disorder symptoms in teens may appear as drastic weight loss or gain, an intense preoccupation with food and body image, extreme mood swings, and a focus on calorie counting or perceived shortcomings. Although it may be difficult to recognize these signs, they often indicate that professional help is needed.
Parents should be aware of the warning signs of adolescent eating disorders and seek help if they notice any changes in their child’s behavior or appearance.
It’s especially important to remain vigilant and observe children for any changes in behavior or appearance related to their eating habits. If you notice warning signs of an eating disorder in your adolescent child, don’t hesitate to seek out professional help. There are a variety of ways to get support – from mental health professionals such as psychologists and nutritionists to charitable organizations that specialize in this area.
The beauty industry in the 2010’s focused on creating makeup enthusiasts and collectors; and in the 2020’s, it seems, it’s on a mission to create the same fanaticism for skincare.
With a new year ahead, many are seeking ways to take better care of themselves, but in an economy that is constantly chasing growth, it’s hard to decide which trends are useful additions to our routines, and which are fads or gimmicks riding the coattails of skincare’s (figurative) moment in the sun.
While inclusivity has come to the forefront of messaging in a lot of industries, the goal of turning a profit requires companies to create a sense of urgency in buyers. In the world of skincare, the obvious angle is the most effective: a race against the clock with the use of anti-aging products.
Tara Sutphin has been an esthetician in Orlando for over 25 years, and her own youthful glow is a testament to her skills. She has worked at and managed a few local spas over the years but started working for herself after the start of the pandemic and says it’s the best decision she’s ever made. She recently celebrated two years of running her business, Blue Zen Aesthetics, independently.
With her experience in the biz, Sutphin has certainly seen fads come
and go, and recommends sticking to what has been proven to work.
“I look at it as, we need to preserve what we have. You know, never sleep in your makeup, wear your SPF. Take care of your skin and get facials. So, yeah, you don’t have to stand in front of the mirror and layer 7-10 things on your face. First, it won’t penetrate [the top layer of skin]. Second, you should keep it basic,” Sutphin says.
So, what would Sutphin prescribe as a ‘basic’ home routine?
“The main things are cleansing and moisturizing, and exfoliating, getting the dead cells off. But as far as anti-aging, a couple of times a week use a good retinol and use a good oil or a good cream that’s going to give you that moisture,” she says. “That can help soften those fine lines. Vitamin C serums are important, and antioxidants, especially when living in Florida. You know, the sun is just not our friend.”
What about all the skincare gadgets that have been making the rounds on social media in the last year or two? Sutphin says that while a lot of them are based on professional-grade technology that does work, the at-home equivalents won’t give the dramatic results they promise.
“You can’t just go buy an LED mask from Wish and think that it’s
going to work because it’s not going to penetrate deep enough. You’re not going to see some miracles happen, and as far as microcurrent devices or, you know, these little handheld lasers, most of the time it’s just not going to be strong enough.”
Sutphin says that the most underrated approach to skincare is one that focuses on internal things that affect the skin’s appearance.
“The stimulation of massaging the skin and working out the muscles in the face for tightening and firming. There are exercises you can do; you can find videos online. On my way to work I do a little routine; I might look like a crazy woman in the car, but it works. And then on my way home, I do another routine. So, it’s like working out your body. If you go to the gym, you get results. And your diet has a lot to do with it; it all goes hand in hand,” she says.
So, if you’re looking to be freshfaced in 2023, drop the excessive products and gadgetry, and go back to the basics – which includes being kind to yourself and your body. And remember, aging is natural and can be done with beauty and grace, without a hefty price tag attached.
It’s a new year, but if you’re feeling bored in the same old city, perhaps it’s time to shake things up. Read on to discover events and activities in Orlando that will keep you busy all year long.
If you live in or around Orlando and haven’t spent time exploring the sprawling 50 acres of lush greenery at Leu Gardens, 2023 is the year to change that. Featuring over 15,000 species of plants, it would be difficult to see the garden in its entirety in one day, but for those looking to make the most of their time, the Leu Gardens website has recommended route directions listed on its FAQ page.
Since 1938, Scenic Boat Tours have been taking tourists and locals alike for hour-long tours of Winter Park’s chain of lakes, beginning on Lake Osceola. The 18-passenger pontoon boats depart every hour, on the hour from 10 to 4 every day. Guests on the tour can expect to see plenty of sub-tropical flora and fauna, a re-
minder of what life was like before the sprawling estates of Winter Park sprung up along Scenic Boat Tours’ route.
A long standing favorite institution among Orlando movie buffs, The Enzian Theater has programmed a series of free monthly movie screenings in Winter Park’s Central Park. On the second Thursday of every month, people gather with lawn chairs, blankets, picnics, and loved ones to watch a classic; and this month, you could be one of them.
On the last Friday of every month, cyclists join together in Orlando’s Loch Haven Park and proceed to ride through Downtown, completely taking over the usually car-dominated
streets. This tradition began over a decade ago and goes on rain or shine. If you’d like an excuse to go for a bike ride and a way to feel connected to your community, Critical Mass is it.
Celebrating its 32nd year in 2023, the Orlando Fringe Festival is a haven for Orlando’s art and theater communities. Featuring eight main
venues and countless satellite venues, Fringe allows artists total control of their live productions, which are chosen to be staged via a lottery system. The main festival is from May 16-29, but there is a Winter Mini-Fest from January 12-15 to tide over the public.
Orlando is home to several highly enriching museums that are worth checking out but are often overlooked by long-time residents. For lovers of art, there’s The Orlando Museum of Art and The Morse Museum, for science enthusiasts, The Orlando Science Center, and for history buffs, The Orlando Regional History Center. Take an afternoon to take in culture and artifacts from far and wide, as well as from right here at home.
Orlando is home to dozens, if not hundreds, of restaurants and food trucks that offer flavors that are out of this world. At events like the monthly 407 Food Faire in Ivanhoe Village, or even Lake Eola’s weekly farmer’s market, you’ll find any cuisine that you could possibly be craving, and then some.
So, if you’re feeling burnt out on things to do in Orlando, attending and experiencing a few of the things listed above is guaranteed to provide a new sense of admiration for our city in this new year.
Get ready, Orlando residents!
The Dolly Llama is coming to town, and they’re bringing their famous waffles and artisanal ice cream with them. The Dolly Llama is a modern dessert shop that offers hand-crafted waffles and ice cream in a fun and hip environment. The success of the brand can be attributed to their innovative and artisanal menu, as well as the unique experience of visiting a Dolly Llama location.
The Dolly Llama was founded by Eric Shomof, who had a vision of creating a modern dessert shop that offered authentic European flavors and techniques. The Dolly Llama currently has six locations in Los Angeles, Dallas, Jacksonville, and Las Vegas, and they are now bringing their unique concept to Winter Garden.
“Winter Garden is the perfect city for The Dolly Llama to thrive because of its suburban population and its pleasant young professional and family atmosphere,” said Shomof. “Having gotten to know Amit and Sabina and their hardworking partnership, there is no doubt that the couple will bring in the local crowd, and with the location being nearby the popular
destination city of Orlando, we anticipate The Dolly Llama attracting those visitors as well!”
The Dolly Llama’s grand opening celebration will take place on Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Winter Garden Village Shopping Mall. The first 100 guests will receive a free Dolly Llama swag bag, and there will be plenty of branded merchandise and giveaways to go around. The Dolly Llama’s aesthetic is insta-worthy, with eye-catching signage, their iconic llama, and “wanted” llama prints along the walls.
“We are very excited to open in just a few weeks and offer The Dolly Llama’s famed waffles and ice cream delights to the Winter Garden and greater Orlando community,” said Sabina and Amit Maini, co-franchisees of The Dolly Llama Winter Garden. “We fell in love with The Dolly Llama after visiting a cousin who lives in Los Angeles, and we happened upon the shop in Koreatown. The name is catchy, and the menu is fun, so it immediately prompted us to look into opportunities with the brand.”
The Dolly Llama’s menu offers two unique waffle styles - the OG Liege Waffle and the Bubble Waffle.
The Bubble Waffle is prepared with a special batter that produces a unique crispy and custard-like texture. These waffles are the base of their “Top Picks’’ waffle and ice cream desserts, ice cream waffle sandwiches, and a “Build Your Own” menu where customers can top their waffles with unlimited toppings. Signature Shakes are another brand staple.
The Dolly Llama is excited to bring their unique concept to Winter Garden, and they can’t wait to celebrate their grand opening with the community. Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to try The Dolly Llama’s famous waffles and ice cream delights. See you there!
It may be a new year, but construction activity remains high on the Central Florida Expressway Authority’s (CFX) State Road 417 capacity improvements project.
In February 2021, CFX began working on this 21-mile stretch of SR 417. This project will add a travel lane in each direction between International Drive and SR 528, as well as wider median shoulders that can temporarily accommodate additional traffic during emergency response events.
To minimize impact to motorists, the project was broken up into five segments, and all five segments are currently under construction.
The contractor continues to make excellent headway on the inside widening work between Boggy Creek Road and SR 528. Drivers traveling through the corridor will notice that crews are focusing on building the concrete median barrier wall and putting in the bases for new overhead signs. There is also a great deal of attention focused on installing new drainage and roadway activities in the median.
A lot of the bridge work at Narcoossee Road, Moss Park Road, and Dowden Road is complete; most of the outstanding work includes finishing the outside widening and bridge decks.
Most of the noise walls located along the right of way are built. The remaining noise walls will be constructed later in the project.
Completion of the full 21-mile corridor is scheduled for spring of 2024.
CFX owns, operates, and maintains a 125-mile, userfunded network of expressways for 3.3 million residents and more than 75 million visitors in Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. As a regional transportation agency, we recognize increasing traffic demands as more people choose to make Central Florida their home. Making great progress on SR 417 means CFX is that much closer to improving traffic flow and safety on one of our system’s busiest expressways.
Please contact Shemir Wiles with questions or concerns at 352-427-4054 or Construction@CFXWay.com. For more information on this project, visit www.cfxsr417 corridorwideningprojects.com.
Ensley Inc. was founded in 1984 and has remained a well-respected asphalt contractor in the Central Florida area for 37 years. We take pride in the quality of our work, and in providing our customers with sustainable results. Our team has a collective commitment to deliver excellence in safety, service, and professionalism in every job we take on. We offer honest competitive pricing, fair and thorough estimations and believe in providing the most value to our customers. Trust is important in hiring contractors. We seek to see the job from the customers’ point of view to come together to find the best solution for the project. We work around your schedule, completing the job on time, and without interfering with your business. A trusted member of the Better Business Bureau, Ensley Inc. provides a superior service that speaks for itself. Ensley Inc. is a
Small Business and is a Florida Certified Veteran Business Enterprise.
At Ensley, Inc., our success depends entirely on the dedicated men and women that make up our team. We base our hiring and training practices on our sincere belief that an investment in our employees is an investment in our company’s future. We do everything in our power to nurture and promote the talents of our employees. That begins with a rigorous application and hiring process. We’re proud of our culture of investment that promotes advancement through the ranks of our company. A career with Ensley is an opportunity to develop as an individual and leader in your community.
As Florida’s leading asphalt paving contractor, we offer opportunities for advancement at every stage of your career. See what a future with Ensley could look like. Visit www.ensleyinc.com/jobs for our current open positions.
By Don Long
By the time you receive this month’s magazine most of you will have set your resolutions and goals for the year. Nevertheless, I hope you may have space for a few more suggestions.
As a community member:
■ Consider others and follow the Golden Rule, “Do to others as you would have them do to you”.
■ Discover at least one way to help or give back to the community.
■ Be conscious of actions within the community and with your points of contact. Take note of good activities while reporting or helping to correct actions that may negatively affect the community.
As a business leader:
■ Ensure that customers and employees are treated fairly and with compassion. Bring diversity programs and actions to the forefront in your business.
■ Help inspire community spirit through giving back efforts or mentoring others whenever you can.
■ Encourage career training and higher education within your business.
■ Offer employee benefits whenever you can.
■ Inspire your employees to be part of the community by sharing community information and opportunities with them.
As a family member:
■ Remember to plan time for family. Frequently if you do not plan time for family, it will not happen. Numerous family members find that family connections build the best support groups.
■ Take actions to keep and improve your health so you will be there to support your loved ones. A good plan for exercise, diet and regular medical check-ups is the key.
■ Inspire your family members by setting the example for love, become aware of potential challenges and threats, and find methods to help.
■ Seek self-improvement through reading, educational programs, or meditation.
■ On a personal level develop your sense of spiritual connectedness.
■ Bring an appreciation of fairness and equality to all your dealings with others.
■ Pray and act in the interests of peace and an end to violence whenever possible.
Though we should not need to wait for a New Year to resolve to act on ideas we cherish, the New Year does materialize to bring a time of reflection to us as we look at the past year for our successes and failures. Conceivably one final suggested resolution is to select the best ones as goals for the year. Construct the goals as attainable and measurable and assign a standard of performance along with a timetable. In short, create a plan. I will leave you with a quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (poet, author, and WWII hero fighter pilot), “A goal without a plan is just a wish”. Let us all strive to get past the “wish” stage and take action toward our 2023 “goal”.
There are many fascinating and engaging shows currently on air that are worth checking out. From thrilling dramas and heartwarming comedies to thought-provoking documentaries and reality TV, there is something for everyone. These shows and documentaries captivate audiences with their engaging stories, compelling characters, and high-quality production values. Whether you’re looking for something to entertain you, educate you, or simply escape from reality for a while, these trending shows and documentaries are worth a watch.
The popular second season of the anthology series “The White Lotus” premiered in October 2022. Titled “Sicily”, the season follows a group of characters who are on vacation at the resort. The series explores the relationships and conflicts between the characters as they navigate their time at the resort. If you enjoyed the first season of “The White Lotus”, you will likely be thrilled by the drama of the second season.
“Wednesday” follows the titular character as she attends Nevermore Academy and tries to use her emerging psychic abilities to solve a supernatural mystery that has haunted her family for 25 years. Along the way, she must also deal with a monstrous killing spree and navigate her complicated relationships at the academy. The show combines elements of mystery and the supernatural and follows Wednesday as she tries to master her abilities and uncover the truth.
Netflix’s series “Wednesday” has been watched for more than 1 billion hours in its first 19 days of release, making it the third most popular show on the streaming service. Only “Squid Game” and “Stranger Things 4” have been watched for more hours.
In the second season of “Dead to Me”, Jen and Judy are forced to confront the consequences of their actions. In the final moments of the season, they are involved in a car accident with Ben, who leaves the scene. Season 3 will continue to explore the aftermath of the accident and the mystery of Steve’s disappearance. This third and final season ends the series.
“Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?” is a Netflix documentary series that explores the story of John Leonard and his attempts to win a Harrier fighter jet offered by Pepsi in a 1996 ad campaign. Despite Pepsi’s belief that the jet was a joke and that the “price” of 7 million Pepsi Points was impossible to reach, Leonard was determined to win the prize. The series chronicles Leonard’s efforts and the aftermath of the advertising oversight. The story has become a legend in the 26 years since it occurred, and the documentary has sparked questions from fans about Leonard’s current whereabouts and whether he was ever able to win the jet.
If you haven’t done so already, tune in because season 5 of “The Crown” is what everyone is talking about! The fifth season explores Queen Elizabeth II’s reign between 1991 and 1997, a period marked by international tensions, power struggles within the monarchy, and the high-profile divorce of Princess Diana and Prince Charles. The season delves into the Queen’s attempts to navigate these challenges and the media’s impact on her public image. Fans of the series can expect to see more of the historical events and pop culture moments that have made the show a popular Netflix original.
The fifth season of “Yellowstone” focuses on the character of John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner, who has earned a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the series. The season follows John as he transitions into the role of governor of Montana and explores the conflicts between good and evil that arise. The show is a popular neo-western family drama, with cowboys, wild horses, and new villains coming into play. The season features a mix of new and returning cast members, and fans can expect to see more of the scenic landscapes and dramatic plot lines that have made the show a success.
1-Jan. 1
Holiday Light Displays
Uptown Altamonte Plaza
6 p.m. 274 Cranes Roost Blvd.
2-Jan. 2
Art Exhibition: “Holiday in Winter Garden”
City Hall
7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 300 W. Plant Street
3-Jan.4
Happy Hour Tours at The Alfond Inn
The Alfond Inn 6-7:00 p.m.
300 East New England Avenue
4-Jan.7
Winter Garden Farmers Market
Winter Garden Downtown Pavilion 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
5-Jan. 8
Ivanhoe Park Brewery|2023 Florida Brewery Running Series Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 1300 Alden Road
6-Jan. 12
Lead and Feed | Vines Grille & Wine Bar Vines Grille & Wine Bar 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 7533 Sand Lake Rd.
7-Jan. 13
Windermere Farmers Market
Town Square Park 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Main Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
8-Jan. 15
La-Shai Hous Charity Gala Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs 5:30-9:30 p.m. 350 Northlake Blvd
9-Jan. 16
Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration Parade & Live Concert Downtown Pavilion 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
10-Jan. 17
Young Professional Group Meeting
Lime Fresh Mexican Grill Patio 5:30-7 p.m. 13052 Narcoossee Rd.
11-Jan. 19-22
Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions
Lake Nona Golf and Country Club 8 a.m. 9100 Chiltern Dr.
12-Jan. 23
Florida Arbor Day-Winter Garden Heritage Tree Walking Tour City Hall 8:30 a.m. 300 W. Plant Street
13-Jan. 28
Pop Up Market on Mills Ave in Mills50/Thornton Park Market on Mills 12-4 p.m. 610 N Mills Ave.
14-Jan. 28-29
Citrus Festival Boxi Park All Day 6877 Tavistock Lakes Blvd.
15-Jan. 30
Nona Professional Ladies Group-Social Media Branding Wycliffe Discovery Center 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 11221 John Wycliffe Blvd.
