Dear readers,
It is time to get excited because our March issue is for the kids, literally and at heart! From the cutest baby winner reveal to the exciting grand opening of the Women’s History & Cultural Center to the young youth making an impact in their communities, this issue is fun and inspirational for the whole family.
First up, we have the reveal of the winner of our Cutest Baby Contest! Get ready to ooh and aah over the cutest little faces in town. But that is not all – we have some awesome family-friendly outdoor activities to explore. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a nature lover, we have something for everyone.
And if you are looking for some fun St. Patrick’s Day ideas, you have come to the right place. Our kid-friendly mocktails are a great way to celebrate the festivities without the alcohol. City Works Eatery & Pour House helps you recreate their signature buffalo dip at home during March Madness, and we give suggestions on the best places to staycation during Spring Break.
I hope this issue makes you smile and inspires you to make the most of the month ahead. Here’s to a happy, healthy, springy, and fun March for kids and families in Central Florida!
Happy March!
AlexisEDITOR
Alexis George Alexis.George@lifestylescfl.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Michael Feland
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Catie Moore
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Melissa Donovan Ellie Nas
DIGITAL MEDIA INTERN
Jennifer Couvertier
WRITERS
Kaitlin Applegate, Tarre Beach, Melissa Donovan, Jeremy Hileman Cory Hoekstra, Kristen Jackson, Monika Knotts, Rich Maladecki, Catie Moore, Erica Rudnick Macalintal, Ellie Nas
SALES / MARKETING SALES MANAGER
MUREPHA SMALL sales@lifestylescfl.com
DIRECTOR OF PROPOSALS AND
SHARON LAM Sharon.Lam@lifestylescfl.com
8 HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits in Children
10 YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED
Avoiding Probate 101: Do You Need a Will?
12 DANIEL’S CORNER
Growth and Learning: A Tale of Two W. Daniel Mills Apprentices
14 TALK OF THE TOWN
Conversations for Your Community
16 DINING
Travel the World With These Local Food Spots
20 IN THE KITCHEN
St. Patrick’s Day Mocktails to Make at Home
22 IN THE KITCHEN
City Works Eatery & Pour House Helps You Recreate Signature Dish at Home
28 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Masterpieces in the Making: Art Programs for Kids
Features
6 BUILDING BRIDGES TO THE PAST AND FUTURE AT THE WHCC
Learn more about The Women’s History & Cultural Center (WHCC) of the Girl Scouts of Citrus as it gears up for a grand opening on March 11.
18 GET YOUR GREEN ON: THE BEST WAY TO CELEBRATE ST.PADDY’S DAY IN ORLANDO
Grab your green garb and get ready to shamrock and roll with our top 10 picks for St. Paddy’s Day fun in the City Beautiful.
24 LIFESTYLE’S CUTEST BABY CONTEST
Get to know the adorable winners of Lifestyle’s 2023 Cutest Baby Contest sponsored by AdventHealth for Women.
38 SPRING INTO ADVENTURE: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SPRINGCATIONS
If you are looking for the perfect staycation or a quick getaway, you have come to the right place. We have some ideas for your great escape.
40 LOCAL LEGEND BRINGS JOSHEPHINE TO THE REN
Tymisha Harris, born and raised in Orlando, brings her acclaimed one-woman show “Josephine” to the Renaissance Theatre Company.
Go to CentralFloridaLifestyle.com to see what’s happening near you!
30 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT History Center’s Newest Exhibit Showcases Orlando Music Community
32 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW Bringing Childhood Imagination to Canvas: The Artistic World of Jessica Brice
34 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW Girls in Green Grow Environmental Awareness at Their School
36 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW The Rise of Youth Activism: Will Larkins and the Future of Political Change
42 FASHION
Declutter Your Closet With a Capsule Wardrobe
44 YOUR LOCAL Family Fun in the Sun: Top Outdoor Spots in Central Florida
46 YOUR LOCAL
Discover the Magic of Lake Nona
48 YOUR LOCAL
The Private Gardens of Historic Orlando: A Celebration of Community and Gardening
50 CALENDAR
The Women’s History & Cultural Center (WHCC) of the Girl Scouts of Citrus is gearing up to introduce the world to its grand opening on March 11, 2023. Susan Ennis, Chief of External Affairs at the WHCC, says hosting the grand opening in March adds a special touch to the significant moment.
“As Women’s History Month, it gives us an opportunity to establish the Center as a gathering place where people learn, network, and celebrate the women in their lives,” Ennis says. “As one Girl Scout alumnae [Queen Latifah] said when she was recently honored at Variety magazine’s Power of Women ceremony, “When we stand together, there’s nothing more potent. There’s nothing stronger. There’s no level higher, nothing greater, than when we lock arms and decide we want to do something.” There’s nothing stronger. There’s no level higher, nothing greater, than when we lock arms and decide we want to do something.”
According to Ennis, the inspiration for creating the WHCC comes from a dream shared by a group of Girl Scout alumnae in 2005. They
began collecting vintage Girl Scout items and forming the GSC Archive Team, whose vision was to have a small museum. The team shared this vision with Maryann Barry, CEO of Girl Scouts of Citrus since 2011, and began donating money towards the cause.
Eighteen years later, that dream has become a reality. The WHCC is the first in Florida to celebrate women’s influence on history and cultural diversity. It is also the first to honor the past while recognizing the contributions of women and girls today.
The WHCC covers an area of 6,430 sq. ft. and comprises both renovated and newly built structures, including a new outdoor pavilion. It will be a place where women of all ages and backgrounds can gather to build relationships and strengthen their communities. Ennis shares that the WHCC is hoping to have rotating topic-specific exhibits.
“Women representing various local cultural groups have visited the WHCC, and we are exploring ways to have exhibits and demonstrations that will teach others about our diverse community,” Ennis says. “Conversa-
tions with art advocates are evolving, and we hope to introduce youth to the visual and performing arts locally produced.”
The conversations are just one example of how the WHCC plans to engage and collaborate with the local community to celebrate and showcase the impact and influence of women on our history and cultural diversity. Ennis says there will also be opportunities to set up field trips with local schools and have local women’s organizations set up small exhibits at partner locations.
The WHCC is a significant addition to the cultural landscape of Central Florida and a much-needed educational resource. It is poised to become an exceptional venue for community members to gather, interact, and progress.
“Our intent is to ensure the Center reflects the diversity of our community— that it will continue to evolve to educate, excite and inspire Central Floridians, especially girls, to embrace the grand societal challenges of their time, create innovative solutions, and take the lead in advancing our community,” Ennis says.
Month is an annual event held in March to promote the importance of healthy sleep habits. While sleep is vital for people of all ages, it is even more critical for children, as their physical and mental development relies heavily on quality sleep. As a result, parents must prioritize their children’s sleep and ensure they get the proper amount each night.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, preschoolers (3-5 years old) require 10-13 hours of sleep per night, while school-aged children (613 years old) need 9-11 hours of sleep each night. Unfortunately, many children in the United States do not get the recommended amount of sleep. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that nearly 70% of children in the US have a sleep problem at least once a week.
Lack of sleep can lead to difficulty concentrating in school, behavioral problems, and obesity. Fortunately, there are several steps parents can take to promote healthy sleep habits in their children.
To accomplish this, set a regular bedtime and wake-up time for children, even on weekends. A consistent sleep routine can help regulate the body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality.
Consider limiting screen time before bed, as the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle. Additionally, ensure the bedroom is cool, dark and quiet to promote optimal sleep conditions for children.
During the Day
Encouraging physical activity for children during the day can also promote healthy sleep habits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily. Physical activity improves sleep quality as it promotes overall health and well-being.
Children learn by example, so if parents prioritize their sleep, their children are more likely to do the same. Parents ages 18+ should receive between 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
National Sleep Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the critical role that sleep plays in children’s physical and mental development. Parents can ensure their children receive the proper amount of sleep each night by establishing consistent sleep routines, creating a relaxing sleep environment, promoting physical activity, and modeling healthy sleep habits. Doing so can improve academic performance, reduce behavioral problems, and promote overall health and well-being for children. If concerns ever arise, parents should seek advice from a local doctor.
Sources:
1. National Sleep Foundation. (n.d.). How much sleep do we need? Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/howmuch-sleep-do-we-really-need
2. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2014). Insufficient sleep in adolescents and young adults: An update on causes and consequences. Retrieved from https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/134/3/e921
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Physical activity facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/physicalactivity/facts.htm
As part of cancer care at Nemours Children’s Health, we o er you not only a second opinion but many opinions from a team of doctors and specialists. In fact, an entire board of specialists consult each other throughout your child’s treatment to ensure the best course of action is taken. What’s more, your child has access to the latest advanced treatments through clinical trials not always available at all children’s hospitals. Because here, cancer care will always go well beyond medicine to ensure the best health possible for your child. Which will make you feel good about choosing Nemours Children’s.
Go well beyond at Nemours.org/Beyond
A second opinion. To make parents feel better too.
By Kristen Jackson,
A:Let’s begin with probate. Probate means “prove the will” and is the legal process by which a court appoints an executor or personal representative to manage your affairs. The designated person will pay your debts and distribute your assets to your beneficiaries according to your wishes as outlined in your will. If there is no process to pass your assets to beneficiaries, then probate will be required. Consider the assets you described; you can pass them to your beneficiaries without a will.
■ House - Change the deed of your home by transferring your property to one or multiple beneficiaries and retain the ability to live on the property for the rest of your life, known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed. You can still change your mind, sell, refinance, obtain a reverse mortgage, or do whatever you want during your lifetime.
Upon your death, the heir(s) you name on the deed receive full ownership without any need for probate. If you have more than one property, or a timeshare, you can retitle each.
■ Bank Accounts - Have your banks name beneficiaries on your accounts to ensure account assets pass on to them upon your death, known as a POD or TOD, payable on death or transfer on death.
■ Vehicles or Mobile Homes – Florida Statutes Section 319.28 allows an application for a certificate of title of a motor vehicle to be made by an heir of a previous owner who died intestate, meaning without a will, without any need for probate. The applicant must file with the department of motor vehicles (DMV) an affidavit that the estate is not indebted and that surviving heirs collectively agree among themselves on the division of the estate. The DMV form for a certificate of title includes a section on the Application For Certificate Of Title With/Without Registration Intestate (without a will).If your loved one owed money on the vehicle, either the bank holding the title or the DMV may require probate.
Do you need a will to avoid probate? Not necessarily, but never rely upon family, friends, or neighbors for legal advice unless they are lawyers. There are advantages to having a will rather than no estate planning whatsoever. Before you make a decision, it is wise to seek the advice of an estate planning attorney to explain the benefits of wills, trusts, and probate and how to pass your assets without probate to your beneficiaries.
Jackson Law P.A.
Q:At 83 years old, single, and on a fixed income, I own very little, a house, a car, a bank account, and nothing more. My family, friends, and neighbors constantly badger me about creating a last will to avoid probate and making my beneficiaries pay thousands of dollars to retrieve what little I own. What is probate, and do I need a will?
Valencia College freshman
Amanda Gutierrez and Florida Virtual School junior Addison Ward are high-achieving students who love theater arts. Gutierrez has her eyes set on becoming a high school performing arts teacher. Ward hopes to sing, dance, and act professionally in musical theater. The W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship Program is helping them reach their goals.
For Gutierrez, the inspiration to become a teacher came from her mother, an English high school teacher, and her theater teacher at Lyman, Susan Gerdeman. She feels like being a teacher will allow her to be involved in all aspects of theater better than any other role. Gutierrez has already been a stage manager, assistant director, wardrobe mistress, costume designer, and hair/makeup artist. She was also named Best Techie by the International Thespian Society during the 2019-20 season and received a Thespy Award.
An honors student at Valencia College, Gutierrez looks forward to transferring to the University of Central Florida through the DirectConnect program. She plans to dual major in education and theater.
Gutierrez shares she did not always want to become a theater arts teacher. At one point, she wanted to
be an actor. But one day, she auditioned and did not get a part. At first, her natural optimism teetered, but she quickly recovered when her teacher placed her in costuming. That is when she found she preferred being backstage over performing. “I am thankful I did not get a part because tech quickly became my home,” she says.
Last year Gutierrez performed in FunikiJam Show at the Orlando REP. The interactive show designed for children involves actors getting the audience to participate. That is when she got bit by the teaching bug. “I love to see that spark in someone’s eyes when they get it,” Gutierrez says. “That’s what I’m passionate about.”
Ward is grateful to be a W. Daniel Mills apprentice. “The apprenticeship gives me so many more opportunities than if I were just doing high school theater or community theater,” she says. Her favorite part of the apprenticeship is the masterclasses, where professionals from production to performance teach and share their personal experiences.
As an actor, learning writing and set design has given Ward a new appreciation for all that goes into performing. “It takes everyone to make it work,” Ward says. “It expanded my mind and opened my eyes to understand all the angles involved.”
Part of what attracted Ward to the stage was the connection between herself and the audience. She says the theater is the ultimate arena for sharing emotions and vulnerability. “Sharing a story people can relate to and see themselves in or maybe understand from a different point of view is magical,” Ward says.
Next up, Ward is performing as Little Red, a principal role, in Osceola Arts Young Actors Company production of Into the Woods. Into the Woods will run from May 26 to June 4. Singing is still her favorite part of performing, but she says some of the higher notes she has to sing as Little Red can be difficult. “[In this role] I can challenge myself. There is room for me to make mistakes, not that I want to make mistakes, but it is one of the ways that I can learn and grow,” Ward says.
Happy to have the chance to stretch her acting and singing chops, Ward says she could not have gotten to where she is without the support of her family. Driving from their home in Winter Garden to auditions or rehearsals in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole County can take a lot of time. “I am lucky that my mom and I have a great relationship,” Ward says. “Spending so much time with her in the car is not a big deal. I always have fun with her.”
As we welcome the month of March, it is time to start exploring all the exciting new things happening in Central Florida. With new destinations, health tips, and community celebrations to acknowledge, we are in for quite the ride!
People say Central Florida residents never take advantage of nearby attractions or destinations. Prove them wrong by considering two of my favorite one-day trips:
n Wekiva Island is in Longwood, Florida, and features indoor and outdoor recreation, including kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals. Wekiva Island also has food and beverages and a riverside boardwalk for people and watercraft watching.
n Yalaha Bakery is an authentic German bakery you must visit on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Located in Yalaha, Florida, it features delicious daily on-site made baked goods (pastries and bread), a small German deli/sandwich shop, several beers from Germany, and a backyard stage with various musicians.
Congratulations to the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce for achieving 100 years of service to the residents and businesses of the Winter Park Community! Visit the Chamber website winterpark. org for more information.
Are you ready for a Central Florida Buc-ee’s? A new Buc-ee’s is opening in the Ocala area, near I-75. If you have not experienced this new-to-Florida super gas station and market venue, please review its website or the two existing Florida stores near St. Augustine or Daytona.
If you’re a football fan or a student of the NFL game, this is an emotional timeframe. Tom Brady, the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), has officially retired. Brady has offered thrills on the football field for 23 NFL years (including the last three, right here in Florida). Football will never be the same. Thank you for the memories, Tom Brady.
Medical experts are advancing the following tips to maintain and enhance your children’s health:
n In this post-Covid world, teach and encourage your children to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. Invite your child to quietly sing a 20-second song or verse when washing their hands.
n Establish a consistent bedtime routine that promotes 8-9 hours of sleep. Research shows that sleep quality is directly associated with behavior and eating habits.
n Reduce screen time (of all devices) to 2 hours per day to support healthy sleep habits.
For the safety of all - especially our children - it’s time for the law enforcement community to re-establish speed limit compliance on our streets and highways. Excessive speeding has become the norm on all/ most Central Florida roadways because of the notable lack of speeding tickets issued. Let’s reverse this trend and return the feeling of safety to our streets.
By Ellie Nas
Are you looking to try new foods from different cultures? From ice cream to coffee to pho, these local small businesses will help you explore Central Florida and give you the next best hangout spot!
With a drink and sandwich menu, comic books, records, and board games that you can rent and play with friends, Blackbird Comics will be your next hangout spot. This local mom-and-pop is one of the coziest hangout spots in Central Florida, so grab a coffee and play some Catan. Support this mom-and-pop and indulge in paninis and their signature latte with sriracha and chocolate. Who needs a New York coffeehouse?
Visit America’s first 2D noodle bar! Enjoy a great ambiance that is photo-worthy, and also get some fantastic food to match. With great appetizers and their iconic pho bowls, you’ll have some of the best comfort food. While they aren’t operating 24 hours a day, they’re open until 3 a.m. on Thursday - Saturday.
Currently, under a soft opening, this ice cream shop specializes in flavors from the Philippines. Try
Halo-halo or an ice cream tray ranging from flavors of ube to soy sauce butterscotch to pineapple cake.
Wafu
Specializing in Taiyaki waffles and soft serve, this spot has the best snack options. With rotating softserve flavors ranging from ube to rose to honey, you’ll want to come back every week to try the next flavor. Since their Taiyaki waffles can be sweet or savory, you can have a kimchi melt waffle for lunch and a custard cream waffle for dessert.
Want an authentic taste of Hawaii? You may miss it, as Hanalei Shave Ice is in the backyard of the House of Lang. You’ll have to head to her Instagram at @hanaleishaveice to see her hours, but you’ll want to go. With all-natural ingredients, Hanalei features various flavors of Shave ice like lychee lilikoi and fresh strawberry.
While El Burro Loco used to be a food truck, this location now has a restaurant. Located right off I-Drive, you’ll get some of the best Birria tacos you’ve ever had, with options like Birria quesadillas and crunchy Birria rollers.
Get some Nashville-style chicken right in Orlando. At Chicken Fire, you’ll get giant tenders ranging from soulful to straight LAVA. They know they’re hot stuff with their heat challenge, and this soul food may have your soul leaving you if you get too much spice. Order what you can handle because they are very generous with their servings, and you’ll want to eat it all.
With eight different scratchmade sauce options, this spot has a variety of ways to indulge in Korean fried chicken. Their gochujang comes regular, sweet, or hot and is the perfect accent to a crispy wing or tender. Don’t miss out on their kimchi fries, Bimbi bowls, and vegan and vegetarian options.
These small business food spots will introduce you to all new foods and cultures. You’ll feel as if you have traveled the world without leaving Florida.
Top of the morning to you! If you’re looking for a bit of craic in Orlando this St. Patrick’s Day, you’re in luck! From parades to parties, this year’s festivities are sure to have you feeling as jolly as a leprechaun with a pot of gold. So, grab your green garb and get ready to shamrock and roll with our top 10 picks for St. Paddy’s Day fun in the City Beautiful.
St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
Get your crawl on and join Orlando Pub Crawl for their St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl. Starting at Hooch Wall Street, you can enjoy free premium drinks and specials and avoid all cover charges. The event takes place on March 17 from 5-11 pm.
St. Patrick’s Day Street Party Celebration - Promenade at Sunset Walk
At Promenade at Sunset Walk, you can join in the festivities of the St. Patrick’s Day Street Party & Celebration with free admission. Get ready to enjoy non-stop music, street performers, lucky leprechauns, and food & drink specials. It starts at 2 pm at 3251 Margaritaville Blvd in Kissimmee.
St. Patrick’s Day 2 Day Festival
Head to Oviedo Amphitheatre & Cultural Center for a two-day, family-friendly festival. With live Irish entertainment, fresh Guinness, Smithwicks, and Harp on draft, and food trucks featuring unique Irish cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The festival starts March 17 at 4 pm and runs through March 18 at 10 pm.
Shamrock The Block Street Party
Get ready to Shamrock the Block at this exciting street party on East Washington Street in Thornton Park! Join The 808, Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen, Burton’s Thornton Park, and Graffiti Junktion for an evening of games,
entertainment, and drink specials. The event will include three complimentary drinks for each ticket purchased. Purchase tickets in advance for $10 or on the day of the event for $15. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement in Thornton Park.
Irish Fest 2023
Lake Eola Park is the place to be from March 18 to March 20 for the Irish Fest 2023. Celebrate Irish culture, heritage, and fun with a weekend filled with live entertainment, Irish dancers, and delicious Irish cuisine. Whether you’re Irish or just looking for a fun way to spend the weekend, this event has something for everyone. So mark your calendars, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a weekend of Irish Fest at Lake Eola Park.
8th Annual Crooked Can Celtic Festival
Mark your calendars for the 8th Annual Crooked Can Celtic Festival at Crooked Can Brewing Company from March 17 to March 19. Enjoy three days of live Celtic music, Irish dancers, local vendors, delicious food and drinks, and much more. With free admission, this festival is a must-attend event for anyone looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement at the Crooked Can Celtic Festival!
St. Patrick’s Day Weekend at Raglan Road
From March 17 to March 20, you can enjoy live music, traditional Irish dancers, and delicious food and drinks at Raglan Road. This event is located at Disney Springs and is the perfect spot for families to celebrate.
5th Annual St Paddy’s Day Truck Pull & Street Festival
Get ready for the 5th Annual St. Paddy’s Day Truck Pull & Street Festival in Historic Downtown Sanford. The event will take place on Saturday, March 18, from 4-9
pm on 2nd Street, in the ‘Famous L’ between Celery City Craft and West End Trading Company. Participants can form teams of 10 to pull a fire truck to compete for bragging rights and have fun while benefitting the Special Needs Ability Program, Inc. In addition to the truck pull, there will be live music on multiple stages, lots of craft beer, food trucks, craft vendors, and lots of Sanford fun. The best part? Admission is free, so don’t miss out on the festivities!
St. Patrick’s Day at Liam Fitzpatrick’s
Liam Fitzpatrick’s is throwing an all-day St. Patrick’s Day party with live music and delicious food and drink specials. It’s located at 951 Market Promenade Avenue in Lake Mary and runs from 11 am to 2 am on March 17.
44th Annual Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Get ready for the 44th Annual Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 5, from 2-4 pm on Park Avenue in Winter Park. The parade is the only St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Central Florida, so gather your family and friends and wear your best green attire to celebrate the occasion. Admission is free, so don’t miss out on the fun and excitement at this year’s Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
So, we hope you will enjoy our top 10 picks for this year’s festivities. Whether you paint the town green at a raucous party or opt for a more family-friendly affair, we’re sure you’ll make some memories to cherish. As always, the magic of the Irish spirit is in full force, reminding us of the importance of celebrating life’s simple pleasures with the ones we love. Here’s to a lucky and joyful year ahead - Sláinte!
If you like St. Patrick’s Day but don’t drink or want to make something for the kids, a bright green mocktail is the way to go! Stock up on green food dye and rainbow sprinkles, and check out some of these drink ideas.
With these green jello cups, you will down them without being down in your luck! With an extra surprise of gummy bears at the bottom, these are perfect for parties when you want a simple yet unique dessert option.
■ 1 cup boiling water
■ 1 cup cold water
■ 1 pkg. (3 oz.) JELL-O Lime Flavored Gelatin
■ 1 bag of gummy bears
■ Shot glasses or regular cups.
Add boiling water to the JELL-O mix. Stir for two minutes until completely dissolved. Stir in cold water. Add gummy bears to cups, then pour JELL-O in. Refrigerate for 4 hours or until firm. Enjoy when ready, and of course, add whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles if so desired.
This green drink is pretty simple, yet delicious! You can never go wrong with a float.
■ Sprite (2 L)
■ 1-pint vanilla ice cream
■ Green food coloring
Combine the Sprite and a couple of drops of green food coloring, and add a big scoop (or two) of ice cream. If you’d like, add some rainbow sprinkles for extra good luck.
We all have to have the iconic mint milkshake around St. Patricks Day, but why not have the rainbow too? Here is what you’ll need to make a delicious and lucky milkshake.
■ 1 pint of green mint ice cream
■ 1 cup of milk
■ M&M’s (to your liking)
■ Whipped cream
■ A cherry
Add the mint ice cream and milk to the blender, with as many (or as few) M&M’s to your liking. Pour in a glass and add whipped cream and a cherry to top it off! You’ll be in a-green-ment that this milkshake will become a year-round favorite.
Do you like pina coladas? This drink is perfect for a leprechaun on vacation and you.
■ 1 bag of frozen pineapple
■ 1 cup of vanilla ice cream
■ 1 cup of coconut milk
■ ½ cup of pineapple juice
■ Green food coloring (to your liking, or use spinach if you’re done seeing too much green)
Add it all to a blender and blend to your desired consistency. Pour it in some glasses, and top it off with whipped cream and any fruit garnishes you wish.
Punch is a hit at any party! With this bright green punch, you’ll see green after drinking it.
■ Ginger ale (1 L)
■ 2 Limes
■ 1 packet lemon-lime Koolaid mix
■ Sprite (1 L)
Mix all the drinks in a big punch bowl, and slice up some limes so they can float in the bowl as a garnish and for extra flavor. With these drinks, you can experience St. Patrick’s Day without alcohol! Whether you’re having a party or love the color green, you’ll feel like a lucky charm.
www.AmberBrookeFarms.com
With March Madness around the corner, guests at City Works Eatery & Pour House often ask how they can recreate our dishes at home. One dish we get asked for most is our signature buffalo chicken dip.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also gluten-free. With pulled buffalo chicken, bleu cheese cream, housemade giardiniera and corn tortilla chips, it’s one of our most popular shareables. It’s the perfect dish to serve if you’re hosting a March Madness party.
If you don’t enjoy cooking, we are happy to do it for you! Visit and enjoy our brilliant twists on American classics, including Duck Nachos, Cheese Curds and Kung Pao Cauliflower.
Of course, game day is even more fun when you can get out of the house with family and friends. City Works offers the ultimate sports viewing experience with our high-definition TVs – including a video wall housing a 168-inch, high-definition video screen complemented by four 110inch and 12 65-inch screens. Our energetic, friendly and upbeat vibe is
perfect for cheering on your favorite team. We even have game day playlists to keep the action going during commercial breaks.
The viewing experience and exceptional food are just the beginning. We’re also proud to offer craft cocktails, mocktails and 90+ beers on tap, with over 30 from local breweries.
Whether you want to host at home or dine with us, our event spaces and catering options can help alleviate the stress of hosting groups large and small. Our game day food is both delicious and perfect for a hungry crowd. When you have food this good, no matter how the game turns out, everybody wins!
Sponsored by:
Special thank you to Krush Brau Park for hosting us at this year’s photo shoot.
1st Place: Monroe and Bristol
Age: 9 months
Parent Names: Jonathan and Crystal
What are some of your baby’s favorite things? MonroeMusic, Spaghetti, Momma’s cell phone, snuggles, bath time, laughing at her sister, remotes, crawling, steering wheels Bristol - Snacks, dancing, cocomelon, making people laugh, bath time, Tommy Roe-Sweetpea, phones, remotes
What is your baby’s most precious moment? When we were teaching Monroe to crawl we would use her favorite strawberry teether toy and hold it in our mouth and she would crawl over to snatch it and put it in her mouth and just crack up laughing. Since the girls were born Bristol always reaches to find her sister’s hand. When I take their picture, when they are sitting in the high chair eating, when they get their bath at night she always reaches for her sister’s hand. Most recently I got them out of their cribs in the morning and was carrying both of them to get them dressed for the day and she reached over to hold her sister’s hand the entire way.
What is your favorite story to tell about your Cutest Baby? The day we found out that we were having twins. We were so nervous going into the appointment due to some unforeseen complications. During the appointment we saw not one but two heartbeats. We left with our hearts twice as full! Since that day there have been so many favorite stories and it just keeps getting better every single day.
Age: 5 months
Parents: Joan and Andrew
What are some of your Cutest Baby’s favorite things? She likes to stand tall and jump on your lap and she also likes being bounced. She enjoys when people talk to her and she loves sucking on her pacifier.
What is your baby’s most precious moment?
Alani’s most precious moment is when she was so happy to see mommy she grabbed my face with both hands to kiss me with her drooling mouth and when she wakes up in the morning and sees mommy and daddy for the first time and has the biggest most precious smile on her face.
What is your favorite story to tell about your Cutest Baby? My favorite story to tell is when we go out in public and people are always stopping to look at her because she’s so cute and then she melts their heart away by giving them such a joyous smile. Its so amazing to see how she brings so many people joy through her precious smile. She is living up to her middle name “Joy”.
Age: 8 months
Parent Names: Baylin and McKenzie
What are some of your Cutest Baby’s favorite things? Greyson enjoys bath time, being held, taking walks outside, picking grass and getting his little hands dirty in the dirt, giving kisses, story time, jumping in his jolly jumper, watching his Miami Hurricanes with Daddy, and cuddling with his “Govey” (his giraffe lovey).
What is your baby’s most precious moment? When Greyson was a newborn, he would cry when he was getting tired, but as soon as worship music would come on, he would settle and fall fast asleep.
What is your favorite story to tell about your Cutest Baby? Greyson is one of the sweetest, most gentle-spirited souls. While we were expecting him, I prayed for a snuggly baby and he really is such a cuddly, loving baby boy. We couldn’t have asked for a more precious gift!
Let’s give a huge shout out to these adorable honorable mentions.
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By Monika Knotts
Research shows that adequate arts education in public schools directly correlates to academic success. One statistic reveals that students with a low socioeconomic status with access to the arts are five times less likely to drop out than their peers with insufficient access.
Additionally, learning self-expression through creative practices creates more well-adjusted individuals overall. Yet, it is still a reality that not all students have equal opportunities for art education. So, whether your child lacks a creative outlet at school or cannot get enough of the subject, there are plenty of art classes and programs for kids around Central Florida to satiate even the most voracious little virtuosos.
CFC Arts, located in the Ivanhoe Village area of Downtown Orlando, offers classes in the performing and visual arts, including dance, theater, music, and more, to kids from Pre-K to 12th grade. Along with organizing a series of free classes in collaboration with local libraries, CFC Arts hosts ongoing workshops in person and online at low or no cost.
Offering classes in everything from pottery and comic-style drawing to urban photography across three venues in Winter Park and Winter Garden, Crealdé School of Art is a haven for creative kids and teens. The school also provides scholarship opportunities for those in financial need.
This studio on Fairbanks Avenue, owned by artist and mom extraordinaire Rebecca Kincaid, has class offerings for all age groups. Kincaid encourages kids to get messy and color outside the lines in the many afterschool and summer camp programs she and her team offer at Creative Jane.
ArtReach Orlando
ArtReach Orlando is a 501c(3) organization dedicated to bringing access to the arts to children of all backgrounds. They host after-school and summer camp programs and provide art programs to underserved parts of the community via in-school residencies. In alignment with their mission, financial aid is available for those in need.
For those interested in getting creative digitally, the Melrose Center located within Orlando Public Library has classes in video and audio production, photography, graphic design, and more. Anyone with an Orange County library card that has completed the Melrose Center’s general orientation has access to all classes. The tech is free, but be sure to register in advance.
Pablo Picasso famously said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” So, if you think your child has prodigy potential or just an excess of energy to channel creatively, consider signing them up for an art program outside of school. With the proper guidance and encouragement, they may very well be able to cultivate an artistic spirit that will last a lifetime.
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The primary goal of the Orange County Regional History Center, located in the heart of downtown Orlando, is to preserve and share the rich history of Central Florida. The museum’s current exhibit, Figurehead: Music & Mayhem in Orlando’s Underground, offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant music scene of the region spanning from 1985 to 2001. The exhibit highlights a unique piece culture as seen through the lens of local concert promoter, Figurehead. The company, an independent operation led by music enthusiast Jim Faherty, is credited with booking shows featuring some of the most recognizable names in alternative rock and beyond.
During this time, thanks in part to Faherty’s efforts, Orlando clubs and theaters welcomed iconic acts like Black Flag, Sonic Youth, Smashing Pumpkins, The Flaming Lips, Radiohead, and many others. His shows, however, were not limited to any one style of music, as folk icons the Indigo Girls, electronic-pop duo Everything But The Girl, and jazz luminary Sam Rivers are among the eclectic list of artists that Figurehead worked with over the years.
The company also supported the development of local bands by giving them a platform to perform live and release their music through the Figurehead record label. Faherty is acknowledged by nationally renowned musicians, such as Seven Mary Three and Matchbox Twenty, as a key figure in fostering the musical scene that provided a platform for their success in Orlando.
“Jim really created what the Orlando music scene was at the very beginning,” says Matchbox Twenty’s Rob Thomas, a massively successful musician who spent much of his
early career performing in area clubs. “He had a real vision for what it could be, and he set it in motion and then helped continue to mold it.”
While musical performances are often a fleeting experience, the company insisted on creating unique concert posters that would serve as lasting documentation of their extensive list of shows. Frequently, local graphic artists created posters for the events, featuring captivating visuals tailored to lure in ticket purchasers.
After years of building his extensive collection, Jim Faherty donated hundreds of these posters to the History Center and many other items from his years in the music business. The exhibition features selections from his archive, concert photography, Figurehead record releases, and firsthand accounts from the musicians, designers and facilitators who know this story best.
A visually stunning experience, the gallery focuses on the music and the community created by a group of talented and driven individuals who called Orlando home during this era.
“I loved it because it was a passion project,” Faherty says of his time with Figurehead. He is pleased with the History Center showcasing his company’s work and contributions to local history. “The exhibit is unbelievable; I’m very honored.”
Figurehead: Music & Mayhem in Orlando’s Underground is on display through September at the Orange County Regional History Center. Visit thehistorycenter.org to learn more.
By Kaitlin Applegate
If you could put on a pair of glasses and see the world through the eyes of others, what might look different? Jessica Brice, the owner of Vivid Artistry Co., invites viewers into her world through her boldly painted acrylic artworks. “For me, getting in front of a canvas and having a full range of color and potential is so exciting,” said Brice in a phone interview. “It’s such a thrill and joy.”
Mixing 90% of her custom colors, Brice created a new language using color play. Brice’s love of nature often becomes the focus of her creations, as she uses a beautiful collision of reality and whimsy. Her paintings occupy a space between the tangible and imaginative that invites people back to childhood.
Brice’s childhood was filled with anything creative she could get her hands on. “Since I was a kid, I have always wanted to go to school for art,” said Brice. Early on, Brice’s mom noticed her daughter’s zeal for all things expressive. “My mom was so good at finding creative things for me to do, whether it was ceramics, drawing, or
going to museums; my mom was invested in making sure I had a creative outlet from a very young age.”
However, childhood passions took on a different shade when Brice became a teenager. “In high school, when you say you’re going to do art, that’s when the family intervention happens,” laughed Brice. Her parents were nervous about the idea of Brice going to college for art and recommended she pursue graphic design. She double majored in Graphic Design and Teaching Art.
Choosing to pursue art school would become life-changing for Brice as an artist. “Really, I was a drawer,” said Brice. “I didn’t paint that much until I took a painting class in college, and that changed everything.”
Painting introduced her to a world of precision with a creative freedom that she found intoxicating.
Her newfound passion exploded when she was given a unique assignment in one of her classes: paint on something
other than canvas. That was it. With no additional rules to tie her down, Brice could not get the image of herself blowing a giant blue bubble of gum. So what does someone do when they have blue bubblegum sticking in their head? If you are Brice, you paint it. She consumed her time trying to blow the perfect bubble, but after several attempts left her with little more than a sore jaw, she decided to photoshop it. This picture became the blueprint for Brice’s painting.
When she finished the piece, Brice entered her painting into a competition, where Dr. E. Ann McGee,
the then dean of Seminole State College, purchased it from Brice. Dr. McGee told Brice how her creation “reminded her of the students she served and that she works hard for every day.” From that moment on, Brice knew she could connect to others through her art. “It didn’t matter what I was painting,” said Brice. “I wanted to speak to someone.”
Looking back, Brice credits her painting approach to the painting by numbers she loved doing as a child. Since she uses different colors, often only separated by a single shade, Brice labels the colors of her paintings similar to the labels used by paint by numbers. Sitting in her studio, she laughed, realizing that the paint buckets she uses are the same ones that come with a paint-by-numbers kit.
The childish spirit Brice has managed to preserve in her artwork connects to nature in a mutual insouciance. Having finished a series on jellyfish, Brice finds their behaviors fascinating. “They are just floating. They’re not rushing to go anywhere, and yet they still get everything they need. Kind of like a child, they have no worries. They go with the flow.” So
in a world filled with hard news and hurried lifestyles, Brice believes people can learn from a jellyfish’s approach to life.
Brice’s friends attest that her warmth and resilience shine through in her artwork. A friend and fellow artist, Ysabel Flores, is inspired by how “in the midst of the ups and downs of life, she always maintained a passion for art.” Together, they motivate each other to pursue self-expression in acrylic paintings.
Matt Hepner, the owner of The Standard CLCL, first met Brice when she delivered kombucha to their shop just before she quit to pursue art fulltime. “I thought she was super easy to talk to,” said Hepner. When Harper and his wife finally saw her artwork, they fell in love. Brice’s warm personality led to a partnership in which her artwork is for display at The Standard.
From the coffee shop to the community, creation, and more, Brice brings life wherever she goes and paints. Not much has stayed the same since Brice was little, but one thing is true: “When I am painting is when I’m most fulfilled and happy. There is no me without the art.”
By Melissa Donovan
Sitting in the Rainbow Elementary School lunch room this past September, fifth grader Leia Faubert noticed a student throw their plate of spaghetti in the trash. Disappointed to see someone waste their food, she turned to her friends Elly Thomas, and Corrine Reese, to discuss a potential solution. Known as the Girls in Green, Faubert, Thomas, and Reese created Project Make it Happen.
“It means a lot to us that kids don’t waste unfinished food even though we sometimes do it too,” Faubert said. “But that’s what we’re learning from it that we hope that everybody else can learn from it too.”
The original idea for the project was to set up a compost bin in their classroom where students could put their unfinished food and produce soil for a garden full of vegetables they were planning to grow. Thomas said she had grown up with a compost bin at her house, and the other girls were familiar with practicing eco-friendliness from a lesson they learned in their fourth-grade class.
They said they bring unfinished food to the compost most days after lunchtime and work on the garden before or after school or at recess. So far, they have grown lettuce, kale, carrots, and marigolds in the garden at school.
When the trio first discussed ideas for their project, they said they later proposed it to their teacher, Melissa McDonald.
“I was pretty happy for them to have such a great idea,” McDonald said. “At recess, they came out with their notepads and pencils, putting together ideas. And then I’d ask more questions, and they would do more research and figure things out. I was pretty excited for them.”
McDonald said her role is to keep the girls on track. She said when they first came to her with the idea, it was quite a lot they were looking to do- all of which she did not feel was manageable for the time being. One of the items the girls thought of was a big fundraising event at Trotwood park with raffles and games, but before getting started on anything, McDonald said she wanted to get approval from the principal.
While all three girls said presenting their idea to the principal was nerve-wracking, their principal approved their idea to have their compost in the classroom and host a fundraiser at the school. They hosted a bake sale that many of their friends and classmates attended and made over $700 to raise money for more efforts toward their project supplies.
“It felt good that a lot of friends in our class helped out,” Reese said. “I think they think it is going to help and like a lot of our friends support us doing it.”
Along with the confidence from their family, friends, and classmates, Thomas said there are still some people who aren’t as open about it.
“The girls really support us, but
the boys kind of joke about it sometimes,” Thomas said.
As time passes, the girls have been able to reap some of the rewards of their work. They brought home some purple kale over winter break to take care of it amid the freeze and learned to harvest their plants to ensure a prosperous garden.
From there, they have been able to grow lettuce and make sandwiches and treats for some of the teachers with it.
“We even put things on Facebook, you know, just kinda showing the rainbow families, when you supported us at our bake sale, this is what we were able to buy, and here’s the garden that we were able to create. So everyone can see where these girls take action,” McDonald said.
Though the project has progressed from an idea the girls came up with at recess to something they see tangible results of, they said they do not plan on stopping. The girls want to increase the number of compost bins in their school and be able to grow more in their garden with the soil produced. They even discussed pursuing it in middle school and finding students to take over the project at Rainbow once they leave.
“I think we hope that others will care about how much it’s important to us and that they’ll see that we really care about it, and then they’ll care about it, too. And then it will continue for a few years and hopefully for a long time,” Faubert said.
Generation Z is often recognized for their strong commitment to social issues and activism. Being hyper-informed à la the internet and being angry at the circumstances of the world they were recently born into has resulted in an uptick in the kind of rebellious actions that can be healthy for a society. One such positive troublemaker, a Senior at Winter Park High School, has spent the latter half of their high school career organizing for change.
Will Larkins (they/them) has always had an inherent affinity for activism but never thought it would become the central focus of their life. Will recalls crafting their first petition out of construction paper – against a new, unpopular lunch menu at the elementary school – in the second grade.
“In fifth grade, I had a teacher who was the first person to introduce me to the concept of activism,” Larkins said. “We raised money for Syrian refugees, which she organized, and I was leading the charge. Every single weekend, [I went] door-to-door. I was so excited to be able to make a difference in someone’s life in a positive way.”
Since then, Larkins has attended and organized dozens of protests and actions about issues affecting them and their peers. But the introduction of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill in 2022 catapulted them and their activ-
ism into the spotlight. After transferring to Winter Park High for their junior year, Larkins faced the most brutal bullying and homophobia they had ever experienced.
“I’m lucky enough to have supportive parents, and something that I realized while being bullied and seeing it for myself on social media was that not everyone had the ability to stand up for themselves because of the fear that they’d be kicked out or abused or shunned by their family,” Larkins said. “So, I started the Queer Student Union. I thought, ‘okay, well, as terrible as it is, I can defend myself, I can defend other people, and I can navigate the school system without the concern of being outed.’”
That resilient spirit led Larkins to the State Capital in Tallahassee, where the reality of the need for political activists set in.
“Something about it clicked, you know? It really clicked with me, being up in Tallahassee and being able to look legislators in the eyes. I met so many wonderful people doing incredible work, but everyone was an adult. There were no young people. So I realized that this is something that I could do that I feel like I’d be good at and that I’m passionate about, and that’s needed,” Larkins said.
Soon after, Larkins – despite being threatened with expulsion – organized what would turn out to be the biggest school walk-out protest against
“Don’t Say Gay” in Florida, with over 700 students leaving their classes in solidarity. The act drew the attention of an editor from the New York Times opinion section, who reached out to Larkins and asked them to write an essay published on March 22nd, 2022. In the last year, Larkins has traveled to the State Capital many more times and has even been invited to The White House to represent their cause.
How does this bold-beyondtheir-years teen recommend getting involved in political activism for those who are interested but do not know where to start?
“What you do is see what issues are going on in your city, your state, your neighborhood, and your school in your district – you can make an actual impact there. If someone wants to be involved, wants to make a change, and wants to make the world a better place, you have to look at who is already doing it in your community and is already working on the issue or problem that you want to solve, and ask ‘what do they need?’ Start there, and you will find out what your skills are in regard to advocacy,” Larkins said.
As Larkins and other teens like them to continue to navigate an ever-changing political landscape with grace and eagerness, it is an inspiring thought that they may succeed in doing good for the community, and in turn, for the world.
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It is time for Spring Break again! If you are looking for the perfect staycation or a quick getaway, you have come to the right place. Whether you want to unwind and recharge or party until the sun comes up, we have some ideas for your great escape.
The little town of Nobleton in Hernando County, FL, is a place for those who want an athletic getaway where they can bring Rover along. The 7.8-mile Croom Trail North Loop is considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. Croom Trail is not too far from Withlacoochee State Forest, where dogs on leashes are also allowed, and 16-19 miles from Bushnell, where you will find a few chain hotels and plenty of vacation rentals. If you want to get rustic, you can camp or RV at one of five area campgrounds.
Gamble, dance, drink and be merry. In Sunny Hollywood, FL, you can enjoy the sun, sand, and nightlife and maybe even win cash and prizes at one of the casinos. From upscale poker, baccarat, fresh seafood, and live music to virtual blackjack, slots, and wings, you can find your speed of fun here. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is one of the few casinos in the area that legally offers live-action blackjack, and there is a non-smoking floor for players that want to breathe easy. Nearby, Gulfstream Park offers live horse racing every weekend and shopping and dining.
Get ready to fall in love with your partner again on a couple’s staycation in Orlando. Between room service, luxury suites, couples massages, and more, Orlando has plenty of five-star resorts that will make you and your partner feel like royalty. According to Coleman Concierge, a travel and adventure management company, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is the highest-rated resort for romance. Maybe the high rating is because the Four Seasons offers marble bathrooms, C.O. Bigelow toiletries, high thread count bedding, and plush pillows. The resort also has an adult-only pool to give you peace away from the theme-park vacationing families.
For elegance and a touch of class, the Grand Bohemian is a downtown boutique hotel with an art gallery, chic restaurant, jazz lounge, outdoor pool, and luxury spa. Right across the street from Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, you can enjoy live performances and stroll hand-in-hand discovering the city. Around the corner from the hotel is Lake Eola, where you can paddle out on one of the City Beautiful’s famous swan boats with your special someone.
Colonized by Spain in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest city in America, and pirates play a central role in its long history. St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum features pirate artifacts and interactive exhibits the whole family can enjoy. The Black Raven, a pirate cruise, lets you take an open water adventure with sea-shanty singing pirates. The annual Searle’s Sack of St. Augustine happens March 2 through 4. It is a thrilling historical reenactment of legendary pirate Robert Searle’s attack on St. Augustine and how the townspeople defended their home. To add to the fun, try booking a room at the Pirate Haus Inn, a familyfocused pirate-themed lodge in the heart of historical St. Augustine.
Living in Central Florida, many of us have annual passes to theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando offers up to 20% off rooms (some restrictions apply) at all its area hotels for annual pass holders. While SeaWorld Orlando does not have a standalone resort, it has official hotels and hotel partners where Florida residents or annual pass holders can get deals. You can play all day and grab a shuttle back to your room instead of driving home. Legoland Florida Resort also offers pass-holder incentives, and its newest hotel, Pirate Island Hotel, which opened in June 2020—includes separate kid sleeping areas in every room and playgrounds galore. Not to be outdone, Universal Orlando Resort offers up to 35% off rooms, early park admission, express ride access (with an upgrade package), and complimentary transportation to parks from hotels for annual pass holders.
March is Florida Largemouth Bass season in Central Florida. Lake Butler, Lake Conway, and Lake Kissimmee are all great places to catch trophy-worthy bass. Take your boat and launch it at any of these lakes, or charter a boat with a local captain who knows all the great spots. The Butler Chain of Lakes is over 5,000 acres of 13 interconnected lakes with plenty of freshwater fishing action. Make sure you have your Florida Fish and Wildlife freshwater fishing license before you plan your fishing staycation. Florida residents pay only $17 for an annual freshwater fishing license. Children under 16 and seniors over 65 do not need a freshwater fishing license to fish recreationally.
It is time to celebrate Josephine Baker, the First Black International Superstar and a true icon of the 20th century! Born in 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine was an American-born singer, actress, dancer, and civil rights activist who achieved only moderate success in the United States but became an international sensation after moving to Europe in 1924.
Now, local legend Tymisha Harris brings her acclaimed one-woman show “Josephine” to Orlando at the Renaissance Theatre Company (the Ren), playing select nights from March 9-19. The biographical musical combines cabaret, theatre, and dance to tell the remarkable life story of Josephine, featuring all her most iconic moments.
Born and raised in Orlando, Harris is excited to bring this new version of her hit show to her hometown. “Even after seven years, the show continues to evolve,” Harris says. “With the release of new classified intelligence from WWII by the French a few years back, we learned much more about Josephine’s time as a spy; and we wanted to incorporate that into the play. With other changes, the expanded show now runs a full 90 min-
utes. Orlando is my home. It’s always been my favorite place to debut new material, and I knew the Ren would be the perfect place for us to make our homecoming with this new version.”
Donal Rupe, Co-Founder of the Ren, echoes her enthusiasm for this production. “At Renaissance Theatre Company, we champion original work created by local artists. Josephine is written, directed, and performed by some of the most talented artists in Orlando, and it tells a beautiful story about one of history’s most iconic performers. We’re so proud to feature this work on our stage.”
The Renaissance Theatre Company was established in February 2021 by Rupe and Chris Kampmeier to showcase innovative theater productions in Orlando and other regions. Through fair pay for artists, sustainability, and diversity, the company hopes to grow a new audience for theatre in Orlando. So, take the chance to witness “Josephine” live at 415 E. Princeton Street, Orlando, FL 32803. Tickets are on sale for just $30 at https://rentheatre.com/. Celebrate the incredible life and legacy of Josephine Baker with Tymisha Harris and the talented team behind this stunning production.
Many can attest to sorting through their piles of jackets, jeans, and shirts to pick out an outfit they have worn time and time again. Often, it feels like there is nothing to wear, even though there is a closet full of clothes.
Do you have several unique pieces that make it difficult to mix and match clothing items? You might want to consider adopting a capsule wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe was first brought to the fashion scene in the 1970s by Susie Faux, owner of the London boutique Wardrobe. She said a capsule wardrobe consists of essential and timeless pieces like shirts, skirts, and pants that allow any combination of clothing items to work cohesively.
This concept has had a resurgence today as society has become wary of the impact the fashion industry has on the environment by polluting oceans and emitting greenhouse gasses from all the waste of overproduction.
To combat the issue of taking ages to mull through your closet and style yourself, here is a guide on creating a capsule wardrobe.
The main culprit of the endless cycle of feeling like there is nothing to wear is hoarding pieces that hardly ever get worn. When looking to clean out your closet, as yourself: “When was the last time I wore this?” If it has been months, toss it.
Designer Misha Nonoo shared a tip in InStyle magazine to hang the hangers in your closet backward. If a hanger is still backward after six months, then odds are the clothing item will never have another wear.
Everyone’s lifestyle is different, so it is critical to think of the activities you participate in daily to get an idea of the clothes you wear the most. Would you describe your style as athleisure, vintage, classy, or boho? The list goes on.
While neutrals make the most sense in a capsule wardrobe for cohesive purposes, add a few colors or styles that make you feel most confident. Various statement pieces can still go with neutrals, and after all, build-
ing this collection is all about having the least amount of clothes that will give you the most amount of wear. Pay attention to what you reach for most to determine your staple clothing items. From there, you know where to stock up and trim down.
All of the pieces in a capsule wardrobe should be versatile. It makes layering a perfect solution for creating new silhouettes with your outfits. For instance, layering tights with a skirt or wearing a sweater on top of a dress is acceptable. Fashion is moving more towards a customizable and seasonless style, meaning there is less need to worry about what is “in” and what is not.
So, while spring cleaning in the upcoming months, look through your wardrobe and assess what changes you can make. Fashion is about showing off personality and feeling confident, and contrary to popular belief—that can be done with less instead of more.
By Erica Rudnick Macalintal
Spring is finally here! After a Florida cold winter, the trees are beginning to bloom with the blossoms of the upcoming warm season. Be sure to get outside at these family-friendly locations in Central Florida.
Nothing signifies the celebration of warm weather in Florida like a trip to the beach. And for one of the best beach experiences on the east coast, look no further than the Canaveral National Seashore. Located directly east of Central Florida, the pristine beach is ideal for fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach sits on an undeveloped strip of coastline that is a habitat to a multitude of wildlife, making it as authentic to Jurassic Florida as you can imagine. You can access it from the northern entrance via New Smyrna Beach or the Playalinda Beach side near Titusville. Admission is $20 per car, but for $40, you can get an annual pass, which is a great asset to have during the Florida spring and summer seasons. Also, to keep the fun
family-friendly, try not to wander to further piers, where nude sunbathers gather.
Here in the Land of Flowers, gardens are an ideal place to experience springtime Florida flora. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is a hidden gem known to Central Floridians as one of the best places to appreciate Florida in bloom. In addition to the variance of beautifully maintained plants and flowers, the gardens also boast the gorgeously designed Singing Tower, whose Carillons ring out over the pastoral landscape multiple times a day.
You can also enjoy El Retiro, a historic retirement home once owned by Charles Buck (not to be confused with the park’s namesake), whose Mediterranean-style villa would make any retiree jealous. Tickets are just $17 for adults and $5 for children. Children under five years old can get in for free.
While Bok Tower Gardens are a glorious treat, the drive to Lake
Wales might deter some families. For those needing something more local, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a sublime spot to visit in Florida in springtime. Located on Forest Avenue Drive between Audubon Park and Mills / 50, Leu Gardens is a park most Central Floridians have visited. The gardens, situated on idyllic Lake Rowena, allow visitors to peruse the tree and floral-lined pathways between the Leu House Museum, Floral Clock, and various eclectic outdoor sculptures. The gardens also host rotating exhibits throughout the year, so spring and summer will be no exception. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for veterans and kids ages 4-17, and free for children three years old and younger. Bonus: Leu Gardens has several familyfriendly dining options and activities to choose from in Winter Park and College Park.
Remember to hydrate often and wear sunscreen so that your springtime excursions stay refreshing and enjoyable.
Everyone loves Lake Nona; what is there not to like and appreciate?
Our regional community features inspiring innovations, active walking and biking trails, entrepreneurs, medical institutions, thoughtful neighbors and businesses, and a can-do attitude.
Your Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce (LNRCC) is one of the valuable assets of our fine community. As you may have heard, the Chamber recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and is now re-inventing itself through an inclusive strategic planning, branding, and leadership process. Simply put, the goal is to advance the organization to reflect the needs of this vibrant region.
So, the question you may need to answer (especially since it’s still a relatively new year) is: Should I consider LNRCC membership?
To help you with this decision-making, please take 4-5 minutes to review the valuable Chamber website: www.lakenonacc.org. On this site, you will notice the various networking and informational events offered each month. If you need more information, contact LNRCC staff person Keilah Riosat at 407-738-7764.
Additionally, please note the following significant events for March:
■ Nona Festival on Saturday, March 4 - to be held on the campus of USTA, featuring fun, games, entertainment, speaking sessions, food, and more.
■ Lunch with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer- this luncheon with our honorable Mayor is happening on Friday, March 31, at the GuideWell Innovation Center.
I hope your future includes the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce!
On March 26th, the Lake Eola Heights Historic Neighborhood Association is hosting its tenth biennial tour of “The Private Gardens of Historic Orlando Featuring Lake Eola Heights.” This long-awaited event promises to be an enchanting experience for all who attend. After a four-year hiatus, the neighborhood is eager to showcase its stunning gardens again.
The tour gives visitors a glimpse into the charming, hidden spaces found within the neighborhood. The streets are lined with beautiful brick paths and adorned with oak boughs and Spanish moss, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The tour gives visitors a chance to pause and appreciate the beautiful area, all while indulging in the enchanting gardens.
The tour will start at noon and run until 5:00 p.m. Visitors can explore eight homes, each with a unique garden space. This self-guided tour allows visitors to take as much time as they need to appreciate the gardens. Additionally, for those interested in purchasing plants for their gardens, plant vendors will be set up at “Gar-
den Central,” located next to Broadway United Methodist Church at 406 East Amelia St. Tickets are $20 if purchased in advance and $25 on-site at Garden Central. Purchase tickets at www.PrivateGardensOfHistoricOrlando.com.
Proceeds from the event will go towards the Lake Eola Heights Historic District and benefit the Orange Preservation Trust (OPT). The event is an opportunity to support the preservation of historic neighborhoods while enjoying the beauty of these unique and enchanting garden spaces.
Complimentary electric vehicles will transport visitors, making the event more accessible and convenient for everyone attending. So, don’t miss this opportunity to see some beautiful and unique gardens in Orlando. Enjoy an unforgettable day of exploration, inspiration, and relaxation in the heart of one of Orlando’s most historic neighborhoods.
The Private Gardens of Historic Orlando tour began in 2004 when
friends in Lake Eola Heights would invite themselves to view each other’s beautiful gardens while walking to breakfast on Sunday morning. The first tour featured 15 gardens, but after three years, it was limited to 10 and became a bi-annual event. In 2010 it was postponed due to a freeze but became one of the most highly attended tours in 2011. Plein Air artists were added to capture the beauty of the gardens, and some tours included a bonus garden or antique cars. The mission was distilled to focus on celebrating gardens in a historical setting, and Orange Preservation Trust (OPT) became the beneficiary of the tour.
The event now features the City’s Historic Preservation officer with information on historic homes. The tour has also expanded to include other historic neighborhoods, including Lawsona Fern Creek and Lake Davis. The Private Gardens of Historic Orlando tour has strengthened the bonds of the community and is funding OPT, providing a legacy for historic preservation and gardening in Central Florida.
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