Central Florida Lifestyle September 2021 Winter Garden

OA K L A N D | C L E R M O N T | A P O P K A

Winter Garden LIFESTYLE ®

SEPTEMBER 2021

IRM

Investments | Real Estate | Management

25 Years of Real Estate Success

PRETTY

PORCHES

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

FOOD:

CONSERVATION STARTS AT HOME

5 NEW

TECH GADGETS

PHOTO COURTESY BRADY GIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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From 24/7 emergency care, lifesaving cardiac treatment or expert surgical options, Orlando Health Horizon West offers an array of specialties closer to home. We are proud to bring you care you can trust, the kind that’s been there like a friend, year after year.

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+ LETTER From the Associate Publisher

Home Sweet Home Have you ever wondered what makes a house a home? To me, a home is more than just a place. It is where you should feel safe, comfortable and happy. A home is where you are surrounded by what you love. It’s a place of refuge. There is a reason the saying is “home sweet home” and not “house sweet house.” A house is four walls and a roof, but a home is what you make of it.

Home is where you take that first sip of coffee in the morning or where your little ones colored on the walls with crayons. Home is where your children took their first steps or where they come to when they need to take a break from the world. Home is where you end your day, perhaps with a glass of wine, or with a kiss goodnight.

Home is the land of the free because of the brave. Home is where our soldiers come to after a tour, or any service. Home is where a sleep deprived mom or dad takes a snooze on the couch. Home is where our healthcare heroes come to after an emotionally and physically draining shift. Home is where a student has spent the last year learning.

As I reflect on the 20th anniversary of September 11, the pandemic, and what a year it has been for all, it is my hope that this issue brings you some sense of home. Get comfy on your couch, grab a blanket and a hot cup of coffee, and read about how to make your house a home. In this issue, we have some great ideas on how to create the perfect fall porch, new tech gadgets for your home, and lots of expert advice from top real estate agents.

Also, in this issue: IRM (Investments, Real Estate & Management) celebrates a milestone anniversary with us and looks back at their history, recognizing their team today and looking toward the future; Meet Michael B. Brehne, Esq., who provides personalized and dedicated legal representation to individuals throughout the greater Central Florida region; Kendrick Law Group, a leading boutique law firm based in Central Florida, brings a true concierge approach to the closing experience through Champion Title & Closing and now with Park Title; and so much more.

Tell us what makes your house a home at Facebook.com/ CentralFloridaLifestyle.

CEO/PUBLISHER Kristi Gomen Kristi@KarstMediaGroup.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kaitlyn Fusco Kaitlyn@KarstMediaGroup.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Feland EDITORIAL CONTENT COORDINATOR Gabriella Dedmore INTERN Alina Hoarau WRITERS Tarre Beach, Michael Brehne, Stina D’Uva, Alina Hoarau, Brittany Hoppenworth, Chuck Jackson, Kristen Jackson, Don Long, Rich Maladecki, Natasha L. Spencer, MD ADVERTISTING SALES Lisa Harley LHarley@KarstMediaGroup.com

CONTACT US

FOR ADVERTISING INFO

407-449-2022

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com Lifestyle Publications is comprised of multiple editions, each mailed monthly, directly to homes and businesses throughout Central Florida. Lifestyle Publications is published monthly by Karst Media Group. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. WINDERMERE LIFESTYLE, DR. PHILLIPS LIFESTYLE, METROWEST LIFESTYLE, WINTER GARDEN LIFESTYLE, CELEBRATION LIFESTYLE, DOWNTOWN ORLANDO LIFESTYLE, WINTER PARK LIFESTYLE, COLLEGE PARK LIFESTYLE, LAKE NONA LIFESTYLE, AVALON PARK LIFESTYLE, WATERFORD LAKES LIFESTYLE, OVIEDO LIFESTYLE, WINTER SPRINGS LIFESTYLE and CENTRAL FLORIDA LIFESTYLE are federally registered trademarks. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine or of the trademarks of Lifestyle Publications without written permission of the Publisher is prohibited.

Lifestyle Publications makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. Neither the publishers nor advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found herein, and the publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in ads and/ or in paid promotional features. June 2021.

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• facebook.com/centralfloridalifestyle • instagram.com/yourlifestylemagazine • twitter.com/cflifestylemag A Product of Karst Media

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+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | September 2021 Departments 6

Camaraderie Foundation Works to Heal the Invisible Wounds of War

10

YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED

14

16

18

Features 8

IRM (Investments, Real Estate & Management) celebrates a milestone anniversary with a look back at their history, recognizing their team today and looking toward the future.

12

18

28

30

THE ULTIMATE GAME DAY FOOD GUIDE

Football season is here and no matter what team you support, these local restaurant recipes are our game day winners.

OVARIAN CANCER: FACTS & MYTHS Arm yourself with the knowledge of signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer.

PARK TITLE: A CONCIERGE CLOSING EXPERIENCE

Kendrick Law Group, a leading boutique law firm based in Central Florida, brings a true concierge approach to the closing experience through Champion Title & Closing and now with Park Title.

YOUR GUIDE TO ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT IN ORLANDO

In celebration of Orlando’s growing arts community, we have compiled seasonal information for some of the top entertainment venues in Orlando.

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MICHAEL B. BREHNE, ESQ.

Learn more about the man behind the law firm that provides personalized and dedicated legal representation to individuals throughout the Orlando area, as well as the greater Central Florida region.

Web Life 4

22

Go online for stories and photos not seen in print.

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Orlando Real Estate Forecast

TALK OF THE TOWN

Conversations for Your Community

DANIEL’S CORNER

The First Apprentice for the W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship Is Inclined to Design

WINE & SPIRITS

Fabulous Fall Cocktails

24 HOMESTYLE

26

IRM CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE SUCCESS

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Creating the Perfect Fall Porch

TECH TRENDS

Top 5 Home Gadgets

36 INSTYLE

38

40

2021 Fall/Winter Color Trends

SPORTS & RECREATION

4 Must Play Backyard Games

YOUNG ACHIEVER

Winter Garden Teenager Recognized for Volunteerism

42

YOUR LOCAL

How to Reduce Your Food Waste

44 YOUR LOCAL

46

West Orange Chamber of Commerce Shares What It Means to Have a Booming Housing Market

YOUR LOCAL

Rockets, Resiliency and Responsibility

48

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

50

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW

Peter Warhurst

Highly Honored Dentist OF THE ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY

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The dental staff was dressed in full medical grade Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and double masked. Every precaution was taken in ensuring a safe and clean environment from allowing only one patient in the lobby at a time to thoroughly disinfecting every surface area between patients to requiring the use of hand sanitizer and a temperature check before being seen. The level of care and attentiveness exhibited by the entire staff was nothing short of exceptional.

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Dr. Phan earned the prestigious Mastership Award from The Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), placing him among the 2% of general dentists throughout the United States and Canada that hold this title.

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Not valid with any other offer. Good through 11/30/2021.

+ HOW You Can Help

Camaraderie Foundation

Works to Heal the Invisible Wounds of War Camaraderie Foundation provides counseling for military services members returning from deployment, veterans and their families.

By Staff Writer

W

hen service men and women return home, it should be a happy experience.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Transitioning back to a normal routine with their families may be difficult, especially for those affected by what occurred during their deployment. That’s where Camaraderie Foundation – based in Orlando and Tampa – comes in.

Founded by Marnie and Michael Waldrop, a decorated post-9/11 veteran, the nonprofit’s mission is to provide healing for invisible war wounds through counseling as well as emotional and spiritual support for members of all branches of the military, veterans and their families.

“There are more than 76,000 post-9/11 veterans living in Central Florida, and approximately 25,000 of them will experience cognitive or re-adjustment issues when returning home from deployment,” Executive Director Neftali Rodriguez says.

“With our current funding, we can only assist a few hundred, and that isn’t nearly enough based on our inquiries and asks.”

Camaraderie Foundation provides 100 percent financial support

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

for confidential, private counseling to address post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, anger management, anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug abuse, marital and relationship issues, domestic violence, suicidal thoughts, spiritual wellness and child/adolescent therapy.

This support literally saves lives, marriages and families.

Since 2009, Camaraderie Foundation has provided community outreach to 6,086 veterans and/or family members in 41 states and provided counseling services to over 1,400 cases.

With the support of the community, the organization hopes to continue expanding its presence and reach its Saving Lives – Saving Families goal.

Camaraderie Foundation launched the Saving Lives – Saving Families Campaign to reach at least 1,000 post-9/11 veterans and/or family members who need its services.

The goal is to raise at least $2 million, a number that is based on the average $2,000 needed to assist each individual.

The Camaraderie Foundation also challenges participants to “Walk, Run or Ruck a Mile in Their Boots” by participating in its annual Ruck Sack

Race on November 20. This year, the 5k walk, run, or ruck at two locations on the same day – SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Participants can also join virtually with race shirt and finishing medal included.

Participants can choose to walk, run or compete as a Warrior wearing a 35-pound ruck sack.

How You Can Help

• Make a tax-deductible

donation to the Saving Lives – Saving Families campaign at www.CamaraderieFoundation.org Donate supplies, services or equipment that are regularly used during Camaraderie Foundation programs, including Family Fun Days, Mentor Leadership Program and Peerto-Peer Support Groups. A wish list of items can be found on the organization’s website.

Participate in Camaraderie Foundation fundraising events.

•

•

Celebrating 25 Years in Real Estate

IRM (Investments, Real Estate & Management) celebrates a milestone anniversary with a look back at their history, recognizing their team today and looking toward the future.

Licensed Real Estate Broker

IRM, Investments, Real Estate & Management, LLC 4901 Vineland Road, Suite 270 • Orlando, Florida 32811 Office: (407) 903-0134 • Fax: (407) 903-0688 Website: www.irm-usa.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IRMorlando Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irmorlando/

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Central Florida Lifestyle

|

September 2021

I

n 1996, husband and wife Miguel and Maggie Senior moved to the Orlando area and started IRM as a small, family-owned real estate firm dedicated to helping family and friends with their home buying, selling, rental and relocation needs. In June 2014, with Miguel’s passing, his brother Gonzalo Senior took on the role of principal Broker for IRM, working side-by-side with Maggie, who is focused on property management.

While IRM’s beginnings were humble, the company has grown steadily in the past 25 years. Today, IRM is a full-service real estate firm with a robust brokerage team and dedicated property management department to provide investors with a one-stop-shop for their investment properties. IRM successfully manages more than 400 long-term rental properties in the Central Florida area and in 2007 it increased their scope to Aventura, Coral Gables, Brickell and Miami.

Throughout the last 25 years, IRM has brought on new and diverse team members that have only fostered the firm’s family-owned spirit of providing thoughtful, personalized service to clients no matter where they come from or their needs.

“It’s been exciting to see our firm’s growth over the last two and a half decades,” says Gonzalo Senior, Principal Broker at IRM. “And with that growth, it’s unique to see that our team has remained committed to providing clients with the personalized level of service you see from smaller firms, but with broader resources and experience.”

IRM has helped local and foreign national clients invest in properties throughout South and Central Florida, with a special focus on managing their interests until the appropriate time to sell.

Clients come to IRM from all over the country and the world because they trust the team will provide them with a thorough understanding of the investment environment, local market, and the best legal structure to increase their investment potential. As an established and respected player in Florida’s Real Estate market, IRM has built an extensive network of trusted professionals that clients are able to leverage, including specialized lawyers and accountants that share IRM’s commitment to client service “We’re so proud of everything we have accomplished in 25 years, and we’re grateful to all who have been on this journey with us,” says Maggie Senior, co-founder and Property Management Specialist at IRM. “Our agents, clients and providers are family. This isn’t just a business to us. We understand that our clients come to us for guidance as they make some of the most important decisions in their financial lives, and we’re committed to helping make those decisions successful.”

Looking Toward the Future What’s next for IRM? At IRM, we have been through many changes that have transformed the way we do business – having to adapt and learn from economic downturns, seller’s markets, buyers’ markets, and even economic growth.

Most recently, we have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It has transformed the way people do business and has altered many standards in real estate with more people working from home, moving to other states, and even increasing their real estate portfolio percentage toward this interesting market.

Our experience and years of commitment in this market have shown us that we are ready to take on any change that comes our way for years to come.

We invite all investors to come and work with a trusted and experienced team that will always have their best interest in mind.

Get to Know Your Real Estate Family

Gonzalo Senior and Maggie Senior In his free time, our Broker Gonzalo enjoys playing golf and visiting the beach.

Maggie, our Property Management Specialist, enjoys Pilates and spending time with her grandchildren.

The Central Florida Team Rick Chandoke, Franca Elisa Troisi, Carol Gil, Maggie Senior, Gonzalo Senior, Maria Poleo, Carolina Woodward, Carmen Rodriguez and Brad Jackson. These are the people behind IRM’s Central Florida presence. As hardworking community business leaders, they bring a level of passion, dedication, tenacity and professionalism that can’t be matched.

The South Florida Team Max Donzi (Property Manager and Sales Associate), Ana Maria Gonzalez (Sales and Rentals) and Miriam Eisen (Sales and Rentals) have represented IRM in South Florida for the past 15 years. They are an integral part of the IRM family, and in expanding IRM’s ability to best serve the South Florida market.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ YOU ASKED We Answered

Orlando Real Estate

Forecast

It’s the old supply-and-demand predicament: Home sales in the Orlando area continue at a wild fire pace, but the availability of homes for sale still remains limited.

By Kristen Jackson and Chuck Jackson, Jackson Law P.A.

Q: A: headed:

How long will this shortage of homes last and is Orlando housing headed for a crash, or is it continuing to climb?

Here are five factors that clue us in to where the Orlando market is likely

1. Mortgage Rates

Low interest rates could continue to fuel demand from homebuyers.

Some experts believe mortgage rates will creep up later this year, but expect rates to remain at near historic lows.

However, the Federal Reserve signaled in mid-June it might institute two interest rate hikes as soon as 2023, which could trigger an uptick in mortgage rates.

2. Home Prices

In June, the national median list price for a home reached an all-time high of $385,000, up 12.7% on a year-over-year basis. And according to the Home Buying Institute, various reports and forecasts indicate home prices will keep climbing throughout 2021 and into 2022.

3. Single-Family Homes

Single-family home sales are down from their peak in October 2020, yet are still above the overall level last year. In May 2021, 5.8 million existing single-family homes were sold in the U.S. That’s a 45% increase over the 4 million homes sold in May 2020.

However, the National Association of Realtors said that home sales saw a 0.9% dip in May 2021 compared with the previous month. That was the fourth straight month for a decline in home sales.

The number of home sales has slid recently because of rising prices coupled with a shortage of available homes amid intense demand.

4. Home Inventory

According to the National Association of Realtors, in May there were 1.23 million previously owned homes on the market, down 20.6% from the same time last year. This translates to a 2-and-a-half month supply of homes. In other words, if no one from today forward puts their home up for sale, we would run out of houses to buy in 2-and-a-half months.

This is well below the 6 months of inventory typically seen in a balanced market.

5. Single-Family Construction

Economists forecast that 1.1 million new houses will be started in 2021, and 1.2 million new starts predicted for 2022 and 2023.

However, builders are coping with shortages of materials and labor, and are struggling to increase production and meet demand. The recent lumber shortage alone added an average of $35,000 to the price of a new home.

Our Advice

Given where the Orlando real estate market is trending, don’t hold off on making a real estate decision.

Whether you’re thinking of buying, selling or staying put, with the right advice, this current market can benefit you. Contact Jackson Florida Realtors or Jackson Law, PA and let our team of realtors, and our escrow, title and closing legal team, represent and protect your interests through your real estate decisions.

Kristen Jackson, the founding partner of Jackson Law P.A., handles all aspects of estate planning and real estate law.

Chuck Jackson manages real estate sales and works closely with Kristen at closings as the firm’s real estate title and contracts manager. For more information, visit www.JacksonLawPA.com and www.JacksonFloridaRealtor.com.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

– T H E U LT I M A T E –

GAMEFood DAY Guide Football season is here and no matter what team you support, these local restaurant recipes are our game day winners.

Buffalo Ranch Grilled Quesadilla Courtesy Boxi Park Executive Chef, Jonathan Fahey

Pimento Cheese Jalapeño Poppers

YIELDS: 6 Quesadillas

Courtesy Boxi Park Executive Chef, Jonathan Fahey

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs • 6 oz. Hidden Valley ranch seasoning • 3 c. blended oil • 3 oz. Franks Red Hot buffalo sauce • 5 oz. sour cream • 8 oz. shredded smoked gouda & mozzarella • Flour tortilla 12”

DIRECTIONS: Buffalo Crema

1. In a small bowl, whisk your sour cream and Franks buffalo sauce. Place into smaller container and use when needed.

Shredded Ranch Chicken

1. Open your chicken thighs, and put in a bowl, and mix with all your ranch seasoning well with your chicken. Plastic wrap bowl. Let sit for 4 or more hours, or overnight for better flavor.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

2. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Place your marinated chicken in a baking pan and cover with your 3 cups of oil. Wrap in foil, place in oven, and cook for an hour.

3. Pull your chicken out the oven, strain, and discard your oil. Pull apart with two forks and set aside.

Cooking

1. Preheat your grill or pan.

2. Build your quesadilla, add about 3-to-4 oz. of cheese on half your tortilla, then spread your ranch chicken from side to side, and then add on more cheese.

3. On a grill, cook your quesadilla for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Turnover and repeat.

4. Cut your quesadilla in four and dip into your buffalo crema and enjoy.

YIELDS: 10 stuffed jalapenos INGREDIENTS:

• 5 whole jalapenos, cut length wise & deseeded

• 10 slices thin cut bacon • Pimento cheese stuffing Pimento Cheese Stuffing

• 1.5 c. smoked cheddar cheese, shredded

• 6 oz. cream cheese, softened • 6 oz. mayo • 1.5 oz. roasted garlic • ¼ tsp. onion powder • 1 ea. Chipotle pepper, canned in adobo

• ¼ tsp. ground cayenne pepper • ½ c. pimento peppers, drained/ diced

• Salt & pepper to taste DIRECTIONS:

1. Combine all ingredients with exception of ½ cup of shredded cheese into food processor.

2. Puree until smooth.

Fajita Quesadillas Courtesy Encore Resort at Reunion

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 tsp. paprika, granulated onion,

granulated garlic, cumin, brown sugar, salt and pepper (All combined) • 2- 12 in. flour tortillas • 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese • 4 tbsp. unsalted butter (melted) • 1 can canola cooking spray • 1 red bell pepper (julienned) • 1 small yellow onion (julienned)

DIRECTIONS:

Grilled Chicken Wings with Argentinian Chimichurri Courtesy of Chef Justin White of Unreserved Beer Garden at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

INGREDIENTS: Wings

• 2 lbs. chicken wings • 8 oz. wood chips • 1 tsp. lemon juice

Spice Blend

• ¼ tsp. cayenne • 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 1 ½ tsp. black pepper • 1 tsp. garlic powder • 1 tsp. onion powder • 1 tsp. dried oregano • ½ tsp. mustard powder

Chimichurri

• 1 bunch parsley, rough chopped • 1 bunch cilantro, rough chopped • 1 each shallot, minced • 2 each garlic cloves, minced • 3 oz. red wine vinegar • 6 oz. extra virgin olive oil • 1 each red bell pepper, diced • 3 oz. lemon juice

Greek Yogurt Dip

• 12 oz. Greek yogurt • 1 bunch parsley leaves • 1 bunch celery leaves • 1 bunch dill • 1 tsp. lime juice

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the wood chips in a smoker and allow smoke to produce.

Be careful not to let the smoker get too hot.

2. Place the wings in the smoker and smoke for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine all spice blend ingredients.

3. Remove the wings and toss them in the spice blend so they are evenly coated. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes.

4. To make the yogurt dipping sauce, place all the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

5. Place the chicken wings onto a grill and cook 2 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 F. Remove the wings and place them into a bowl.

6. Toss the wings with fresh lemon juice and chimichurri and serve with the dipping sauce.

1. Prepare grill for medium-high heat cooking, approximately 400°F. Add 1–2 chunks of your favorite smoking wood (alternatively you can wrap a handful of smoking wood chips in foil and poke several holes in the foil) to the charcoal briquets.

2. Season chicken thighs liberally on both sides with seasoning.

Place thighs on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. 3. Remove the thighs from the grill and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before finely chopping.

4. As the chicken rests, combine the blue cheese and mozzarella cheese in a medium bowl and blend well. Combine melted butter and hot sauce in a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Add the chopped chicken to the hot sauce mixture.

5. Spray one side of flour tortillas with canola oil and place them oiled side down on a large platter or sheet pan. Top each tortilla with 4 oz. of mozzarella cheese.

Add approximately 3 chopped chicken thighs, 6-8 slices of onion and red bell pepper. Fold the quesadilla over.

6. Working in batches, grill the quesadillas for 3–4 minutes per side until tortillas are lightly browned and the cheese has completely melted. Remove quesadillas from the grill, cut into quarters and serve.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ TALK of the Town

Conversations for Your Community A monthly look at what's happening in the Orlando area, along with fun facts and important reminders.

By Rich Maladecki

Consider the idea of installing or purchasing a fire pit for the upcoming cooler weather - this addition to your home may create wonderful family memories (to include story telling and roasting marshmallows).

Home Safety Thoughts: It’s that time of year to replace your batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Additionally, it’s a excellent time to check the expiration date on your home fire extinguisher.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

As Central Floridians enter the crucial segment of the current hurricane season, please review and finalize your home preparation task list (bottle water, trimming trees, candles, flashlights, non-perishable foods, and a communication plan with neighbors and family).

Research the idea of adding “leaf guards” to your gutters - this relatively easy project keeps home gutters clean and saves you time (and potentially your health), in the long term.

Many of us consider the month of September as the month to conduct or prepare for a fall garage sale - this is always an excellent project to help de-clutter your home and to earn extra cash.

To add brightness to your garden, pool area, or porch, September is the traditional month to purchase colorful fall mums.

A relatively simple house project to finalize this month is to install a flag holder, to proudly display your patriotism or your favorite professional and/or collegiate football team’s flag.

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+ DANIEL’S Corner

Inclined To Design The first apprentice for the W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship looks forward to learning more about theatrical costuming.

By Tarre Beach

W

indermere Preparatory School senior Caroline Becker is the first recipient of the W. Daniel Mills Apprenticeship Program at Garden Theatre. She says she is excited to be getting the opportunity to learn from theater professionals and use what she learns during the Garden Theatre’s 2021-22 season.

According to Garden Theatre Education Director Nick Bazo the thing that made Becker stand out from other applicants for the apprenticeship was the fact that she was the only design-focused applicant and that she was well prepared.

“Caroline came to the interview with work samples of her costume design and was extremely knowledgeable about theatrical costuming,” Bazo says.

Described by Garden Theatre staff as a hard worker who is always ready with a laugh and a helping hand, Becker started her theater journey by acting in school plays when she was in second grade. While she enjoyed performing, she felt a little anxious about being in the spotlight. Instead of give up on theater all together, Becker found another way to still be involved without the nervousness of having to perform.

Becker says she always liked to draw and sew and when her older brother Christopher worked in the production department for The Little Shop of Horrors play she saw that the world of custom design had all the elements she enjoyed: color, creativity and bringing something to life. “My brother got to work on Audrey (the man-eating plant puppet in

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

the play) and it just looked so cool. I could see how fabric, strings, and other materials could be transformed into this living thing. I was hooked,” Caroline says.

Caroline is most interested in historical costuming. She says her dream is to design for a production focusing on the Rococo era, which is defined by extravagant petticoats, highly ornamented clothing, light colors and heavy materials. Caroline worked on costuming for a friend’s play based on the book The Tale of Despereaux and loved getting to work on the subtleties of his fur looking like it was dusted with flour. “It’s a fun challenge to try to make something look like what you draw or see in your mind,” she says.

Costuming is more than sewing. She also helps actors do quick changes, which can be as fast as 20 seconds, to get ready for a new scene. While recently working on The Bodyguard: The Musical at the Garden Theatre, Caroline got plenty of opportunities to do quick changes, which she likens to being a part of a racecar pit crew. She says working on The Bodyguard was thrilling and extremely satisfying.

“I get to work with other professionals who are passionate about the theater and they’re all so supportive and positive, too. I feel like everyone’s got my back,” Caroline says.

Next up for Caroline this year is finishing her senior year, the apprenticeship, a part-time job at Disney Springs, and selecting where she’ll go to college. “I’m just so happy to be getting to do what I love, thanks to the [W. Daniel Mills] Apprenticeship. I can’t wait to see what happens this year,” Caroline says.

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Ovarian Cancer: Facts and Myths Arm yourself with the knowledge of signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer.

Know the Facts About Ovarian Cancer

By Staff Writer

W

hile it’s true that ovarian cancer is the deadliest type of cancer to affect a woman’s reproductive system, early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes. In fact, the five-year survival rate for women whose ovarian cancer is detected and treated early is 92 percent. Here’s what every woman should know to help protect themselves.

“There are currently no screening modalities for ovarian cancer,” says gynecologic oncologist Robert Holloway, MD, medical director of the gynecologic oncology program at AdventHealth Cancer Institute. “This is why it is so important to pay attention to symptoms and to be seen annually by your OB/GYN for a pelvic exam and other routine health screenings.”

Also, knowing your potential risk factors may help:

■

■

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Talk to your provider about your risks for ovarian cancer as well as potential, easy-to-overlook symptoms like those below.

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Age: Half of all ovarian cancer cases occur in women ages 63 and older.

Obesity: A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher may put you at higher risk.

Family history: If you have a first-degree relative who’s had ovarian cancer or a history of it on

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

your father’s side, you can be at higher risk.

Personal history: Women who’ve had colorectal, uterine or breast cancer may have higher risk.

Pregnancy: Women who’ve never given birth or do so after age 35 may have greater risk. The more children a woman has, the less prone she is to ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding may lower risk.

Medications: Evidence suggests estrogen-only hormone therapy after menopause may raise your risk, though use of oral contraceptives before menopause can lower risk up to 30 percent.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Belly swelling or bloating Diarrhea, constipation or frequent urination Fatigue Feeling full quickly Unexplained, persistent low back pain Painful intercourse Abnormal vaginal bleeding

If any of these symptoms are not normal for you and last for more than two weeks, consult your doctor right away. Diagnosing ovarian cancer even two weeks earlier can make a difference. And know that while screening for this aggressive cancer is challenging, researchers have made significant advancements to date.

“Exciting, new options now exist for patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer. New clinical trials, immunotherapies, leading-edge surgical techniques and novel drugs are being used to treat this disease. Emerging strategies have been improving outcomes for ovarian cancer patients across the board,” says Dr. Holloway.

To discuss ovarian cancer screenings, treatment or other women’s health needs, connect with our Women’s Health Navigator by calling 407-720-5191 or visiting HerHealthNavigator.com.

Questions About Ovarian Cancer

By Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance For more information and for resources, visit ocrahope.org.

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ost of the time, missed periods are not a cause for concern. Pregnancy, weight loss or weight gain, stress, increased exercise or hormonal imbalances can cause menstrual irregularities.

In rare cases, irregular periods are a sign of something serious. They may also increase your risk of ovarian cancer. Let’s take a look at the correlation between ovarian cancer and missed periods.

Can a missed period be a sign of ovarian cancer?

In some cases, a missed period can be a sign of ovarian cancer, but it is not among the most common symptoms associated with the disease. While it is possible that ovarian cancer can cause changes in one’s period, such as heavier bleeding or irregular bleeding, the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer are bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, urination frequency or urgency, and difficulty eating or feeling full. If any of these symptoms are new and unusual and persist for more than two weeks, you should see a gynecologist and ask about ovarian cancer.

What is the link between ovulation and ovarian cancer?

Research suggests a relationship between the number of times in a woman’s life that she ovulates and

her risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Ovulation is thought to contribute to ovarian cancer in some cases, by spurring reproduction of cells, stimulating cell-signaling pathways, and damaging DNA in the process of releasing the egg from its follicle. So things that increase opportunities for ovulation, like never having given birth or breastfed, early menstruation, never taking or rarely taking oral contraceptives, or menopause after age 50 may increase the risk for ovarian cancer. Likewise, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and longterm oral contraceptive use — all of which mean less frequent ovulation — have been shown to reduce risk, along with tubal ligation and removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus.

Can women who have not gone through menopause get ovarian cancer?

It is possible to get ovarian cancer at any age, even before one starts menstruating (although this is rare).

However, ovarian cancer rates are highest in women aged 55-64 years.

The median age at which women are diagnosed is 63.

Does ovarian cancer lead to menopause?

While ovarian cancer in and of itself does not stop menstruation, one

can go into menopause depending on the type of treatment one receives.

The goal of treatment for ovarian cancer is to remove as much of the cancer as possible through surgery, which is known as debulking, and then to provide what is called adjuvant, or additional therapy, such as chemotherapy, to kill any remaining cancer cells in the body.

Depending on the stage and spread of the disease, it may be possible to keep an ovary if it is unaffected. If a woman is still menstruating at the time of surgery, and keeps one ovary, along with her fallopian tube and uterus, it is possible that she may still get a period. However, if she has a complete hysterectomy (the removal of both ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus), she will go into menopause.

How does ovarian cancer treatment affect fertility?

Chemotherapy can damage healthy cells in your reproductive system. Certain treatments, such as a surgery, can put you at risk for infertility or premature menopause. If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer and you think you might want to have children in the future, even if you have not decided yet, it is a good idea to discuss your options for fertility preservation with your health care team before chemotherapy or surgery.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

19

Does Ovarian Cyst Mean I Have Cancer?

By Natasha L. Spencer, MD OB-GYN with Orlando Health Physician Associates

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varian cysts might sound scary, but they are common, appearing and disappearing during ovulation. Cysts cause anxiety because they can be benign — meaning they are harmless — or malignant, with cancerous cells.

Can I Tell If I Have Ovarian Cysts?

Most women don’t know they have ovarian cysts. For others, cysts can cause bloating, pressure or pain in the pelvic area. Cysts can feel like menstrual cramps, so see a doctor if the pain or pressure feels more significant or lasts longer than usual.

Cysts are more likely to show up if you’re perimenopausal, but menopausal women still get them, and there’s a higher chance the cysts could be cancerous. If you’re feeling pressure and pain even though you’ve stopped menstruating, visit your doctor.

What Doctor Will Check

To determine the size, location and characteristics of your ovarian cysts, your doctor may do a speculum exam, bimanual internal exam, lab work and/or vaginal ultrasound. Depending on several indicators, your doctor might consider surgical removal. These include:

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Size: Ovarian cysts that are larger than 6 to 10 centimeters come with the possibility of torsion, when the cyst ruptures and the ovary can twist around itself. Enlarged cysts can also indicate polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

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Appearance: A vaginal ultrasound can tell whether the cyst is singular with thin walls, or if it’s multilocular, consisting of smaller offshoots.

Bloodwork: Your doctor also can check genetic and tumor markers that point to the likelihood of your cyst being malignant.

Many cysts resolve by themselves within two to three months, so your doctor may take a wait-and-see approach.

If there are no red flags and you’re not in pain, your cyst can be monitored through regular imaging.

What To Expect from Surgery

Surgery to remove a cyst is typically an outpatient procedure. The location and angle of the cyst determine whether you will have minimally invasive laparoscopy through the navel or a more involved surgical procedure. It’s crucial the cyst remains intact throughout the procedure. Rupturing within the pelvis can cause problems, especially if it is malignant.

Your doctor may discuss ways to prevent ovarian cysts from recurring, such as hormonal birth control. If you’re past your childbearing years and lab work has shown you may have a higher cancer risk, you could also opt for a hysterectomy.

+ WINE & Spirits

Fabulous Fall Cocktails Nothing says autumn like cinnamon, apple and pumpkin. We’ve compiled our favorite fall cocktails for you to enjoy all season long.

Pumpkin Spice Spiked Latte Courtesy of ABC Fine Wine & Spirits

Ingredients

• 5 oz. coffee, freshly brewed • 1 oz. Michaels Pumpkin Spice Irish Cream • 1 oz. vodka • 1 oz. milk • Whipped cream • Cinnamon

Directions 1. Pour coffee into a mug or heat-safe glass.

2. Combine remaining liquid ingredients and stir gently.

3. Top with whipped cream and cinnamon.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Apple Pie Cocktail Courtesy of ABC Fine Wine & Spirits

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon • ½ teaspoon sugar • Honey • 1 ½ oz. Cooper’s Mark Apple Bourbon

• 1 oz. cinnamon whisky • 4 oz. ginger beer • Apple slices • Cinnamon stick Directions 1. Combine cinnamon and sugar.

2. Run honey around the rim of your glass and dip it into the cinnamon and sugar mix.

3. Add ice and combine bourbon, whisky and ginger beer.

4. Stir gently and garnish with apple slices and cinnamon stick.

Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria Courtesy of Kaitlyn Fusco

Ingredients

• 5 small apples, sliced • 5 cups sparkling apple cider, chilled

• 1 bottle Pinot Grigio, chilled • 1 ½ cups Fireball cinnamon whiskey

• 12 cinnamon sticks • 8 oz. ginger ale, chilled Directions 1. Cut the apples into thin slices.

2. Mix apples and Fireball into a large pitcher. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

3. Add four cinnamon sticks and chilled sparkling apple cider, Pinot Grigio and ginger ale. Lightly stir and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.

4. Pour sangria into eight glasses (make sure each glass has a few apple slices), garnish with a cinnamon stick.

M

Y

Y

Y

50%

UP TO 8 ATTRACTIONS ONE LOW PRICE! Plus SHOPPING & DINING DISCOUNTS!

Get your PLAY PASS today at ICONParkOrlando.com THE ICON PARK PLAY PASS INCLUDES (1) ADMISSION TO: The Wheel at ICON Park, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Orlando StarFlyer, Museum of Illusions, Pearl Express Train, 7D Dark Ride & $5 In The Game Play Card.

8375 International Drive | Orlando, FL 32819 | 407-601-7907

+ HOMESTYLE

Creating the Perfect Fall Porch Set the fall scene on your front porch with these simple, yet beautiful ideas!

Layered Doormats

Freshening up your porch decor by layering a black and white plaid outdoor rug with a “home sweet home” doormat will make your porch Instagram ready. A black and white buffalo checkered rug offers casual elegance in the form of a classic plaid pattern. If plaid isn’t your style, opt for a different design with a relatively simple doormat.

Fall Throw Pillows

Create a seasonal design by adding fall-themed accent pillows to your porch furniture. Fall throw pillows will refresh your porch and are easy to mix and match with other seasonal decorations for a complete look. You can choose solid colors such as red or orange, or opt for a graphic pillow that says any number of fall-inspired sayings such as “thankful,” “hello, fall,” “gather,” “happy harvest,” or “grateful.”

Seasonal Flowers

To add color and warmth, incorporate fresh, seasonal flowers such as mums, and lots of little gourds, to welcome guests to your porch. Large potted plants on each side of the door or steps create great symmetry.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Sets of Three

When items are grouped together in a set of three, it is more aesthetically appealing to the eye. Try to play with varying heights and sizes as well. For fall, consider grouping a large pumpkin with two smaller pumpkins.

Welcome Porch Sign

Add a festive Fall welcome sign to welcome your family, friends and neighbors to your beautiful home.

Reclaimed wood or shipping pallets are the perfect base for a welcome sign to adorn your porch.

Wreaths

Wreaths come in a myriad of sizes. Choose a large one to hang on your front door to create a bold, statement piece, or choose a smaller one for a subtler look. A fall wreath with autumn foliage and fruit wealth is the perfect way to tie in all the toher décor elements and create a finished and complete look.

+ TECH Trends

Top Trends in Home Technology and Gadgets Take a look at some home products that will help you work smarter, not harder, while shaping how you live in and enjoy your home.

By Alina Hoarau

W

e don’t have Jetsons-style homes in the sky, but technology has come a long way. Smart home devices allow you to optomize and control your applicanes for easier, smarter living.

Most of today’s smart home products are compatible with Amazon’s Alexa or Google’s Assitant. The following are some of this year’s top trends in home technology and gadgets.

Smart fridge

The smart fridge has become the ultimate home technology. Your very own fridge can connect to the internet, and most brands of this type of technology are equipped with an application that connects to your personal device(s). From collecting your favorite recipes to entertaining the kids with television in the morning, the smart fridge enables you to save time and effort. Imagine forgetting what was in your fridge and whether or not that milk is good or not. With the smart fridge, you can store all of that information and view it via your mobile device to make those grocery trips that much easier.

Robot vacuum cleaners

While robot vacuum cleaners have existed for some time now, this type of technology has seen a multitude

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

of advancements. As one can expect, these devices make their way through your home, moving in each and every direction, while cleaning your floors.

The advancements in this product have been sharpened and and certain robot vacuum cleaners now have the ability to map out the floorplan of your house and users can even create zones in the house for the vacuum to avoid cleaning. In addition, robot vacuum cleaners now have the capability of emptying themselves, leaving you with little to no work.

Virtual reality headsets

Through the use of electronic devices, users can engage in a threedimensional world by simply putting on a headset, which is essentially a pair of extremely thick goggles secured around your head. We have finally reached the age in which such a dream of living in a story-world has become a reality. Users can play interactive games with the use of hand controllers so that their motions are mimicked and translated into what they are seeing on screen.

Air purifiers

Many have turned to air purifiers to provide their homes with an environment that is not only fragrant but hygienic. However, the limit

is endless as this product has been used in offices as well as cars. Users can select their desired aroma while ensuring clean air in the surrounding areas.

Smart secuity systems

A smart home secuity system connects to your WiFi network so you can monitor and control your security devices using your smartphone. Not sure if you locked the door on your way to work? No problem. Want to get alerts on your phone when motion is detected in your home? You got it.

Depedning on your needs, you can setup a system that you monitor yourself, or you can pay a subsciption fee to have professionals surveillance your home and contact local authorities when alarms are triggered.

If you don’t want to install an entire smart security system, there are plenty of individual devices available that let you monitor your home from anywhere using your smartphone, including indoor and outdoor security cameras, video doorbells, motion sensors, and smart locks.

Raising the Title and Settlement Service Standard in Our Community Kendrick Law Group, a leading boutique law firm based in Central Florida, brings a true concierge approach to the closing experience through Champion Title & Closing and now with Park Title.

K

endrick Law Group was founded by Jessica Hallgren Kendrick, Esq., in 2016. The boutique law firm based in Maitland, Florida has grown into a trusted, welldiversified team of aggressive lawyers who work tirelessly to serve the needs of the Central Florida community.

They specialize in various areas of law, including business law, family law, collaborative law, probate, real estate law and estate planning. Kendrick has recruited experts in these areas to facilitate consistent and expedient professional service to all clients at every opportunity.

Today, Senior Partner Sarah Geltz, joins Kendrick, along the arduous path to legal success, developing the firm’s business and real estate facets. Together they saw an opportunity to meeting an unmet need to provide title and closing expertise coupled with the legal acumen from two practicing attorneys to the field of real estate and ultimately launched stand-alone title and settlement company Champion Title & Closing.

As an attorney owned and managed title and closing company, they know buying and selling. Whether

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

its residential or commercial or even a simple refinance, their goal is to partner with real estate brokers and agents, builders, lenders, and individuals to provide them with outstanding service that includes the added security of attorney review, for no additional charge.

In 2021, Kendrick and Geltz announced the launch of their new company Park Title. This milestone is a major move for the team behind Champion Title and Closing. Park Title represents a true concierge approach to the closing experience, partnered with some of the longest standing and most highly respected brokerages and agents in Central Florida offering agents, buyers and sellers a true resource through every step of the transaction.

Canvasing the Orlando community, these companies have appreciated consistent growth and success. From attorney driven education to their focus on growing business for their partners, from social media support and concierge service to the customized closings that have always been their signature they promise to keep being unique.

Community is the Cornerstone

Along with the desire to provide expert legal and title services to the community, the firm constantly endeavors to be a leader in the philanthropic sector.

In addition to founding its own charitable entity, the Hope for More Foundation to provide a platform for the team to directly influence and raise awareness and funding for important, but oftentimes overlooked or marginalized, local causes, the foundation seeks to achieve its mission of identifying and funding local nonprofits to further their efforts in outreach, advocacy and fundraising.

Giving back to the community they serve is just as important as meeting their clients’ expectations. The team prides themselves on their strong work ethic and laser-like focus on each one of their clients.

630 N. Wymore Road, #370 Maitland, FL 32751 407.641.5847 KendrickLawGroup.com

BUILD YOUR LEGACY —H—

BECOME A BETTER MAN

T

here is a hushed silence over the crowd, a stillness so strong the audience can hear a pin drop in the large auditorium as a man with no arms or legs has guys hanging on his every word.

Nick Vujicic, the man without limbs is declaring heartfelt passion for life and a major league message that is challenging men to reach higher. The next speaker may be a former heavyweight champion of the world, a world-renowned musician, a best selling author or universally recognized performer. If you find yourself within the company of men that have just been described, there is a very good chance you are attending or live streaming the annual Better Man Event from Orlando, Florida!

Founded in 2005, the first Better Man Event was just 40 guys in

Central Florida gathering to make positive changes in their lives. Over the last 16 years, the live event has grown to globally impact over 55,000 men of all ages, with over 2 million video views across multiple media channels. The event itself features men who are leaders in their respective fields and crafts sharing their personal testimonies and walks of faith.

On September 18, 2021 those Better Man speakers, whether in person or via remote will include Academy Award winning actor Denzel Washington, soccer great Ricardo Kaka, musical artist Tobymac, Daytona 500 winner Michael McDowell and Pastor A.R. Bernard.

The Better Man Event is an annual 2-hour power-packed men’s gathering designed to equip,

encourage, and engage guys to become “Better” men. Every year, the Better Man Event seeks to bring spiritual insights on how guys can improve as a friend, student, coworker, brother, father and husband.

The Better Man Event this fall will be held at First Baptist Church in Orlando and hosted by K92.3 radio station on-air personality Obie Diaz.

Tickets to attend the event are still available as well as live streaming options to your home, church or business from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection. All tickets for the 2021 Better Man Event this September 18 and connecting with us via social media and podcast content can be found at bettermanevent.com.

Join our thriving community today and discover what it truly means to be a Better Man!

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

29

YOUR GUIDE TO

In celebration of Orlando’s growing arts community, we have compiled seasonal information for some of the top entertainment venues in Orlando.

By Alina Hoarau

30

Orlando Science Center

Garden Theatre

The Orlando Science Center is a hands-on museum with four floors of exhibit halls that encourages both adults and kids to expand their knowledge of science.

Consider taking the day to spend time with the family while furthering your understanding and education as you make your way through the variety of offered exhibits.

The Garden Theatre is located in historic downtown Winter Garden and has grown into a home for the performing arts that features plays, concerts, movies, special events and more.

Children under the age of 5 can explore the dynamics of space with the help of the Cat in the Hat or attend a tour on ancient dinosaurs in the dinosaur hall.

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Looped: Oct. 8 - 24, 2021

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Interactive Movie – Hocus Pocus: October 10, 2021

Ages 12 and up can zoom through a virtual obstacle course as they learn the basics of flying.

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Interactive Movie – The Rocky Horror Picture Show: October 30-31, 2021

Age aside, Orlando Science is suitable for everyone.

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Big, The Musical: Nov. 19 - December 19, 2021

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Rewind Movie – Big: November 28

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Interactive Movie – Muppet Christmas Carol: December 5, 2021

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The Mountaintop: January 21 - February 6, 2022

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Rewind Movie – Malcolm X: Janaury 30, 2022

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Parade: Feb. 25 - March 13, 2022

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Interactive Movie – Monty Python and the Holy Grail: March 27, 2022

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Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: April 22 - May 22, 2022

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Rewind Movie – Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: May 1, 2022

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

The following is what you can expect from the Garden Theatre this season:

IN ORLANDO

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

31

Orlando Ballet

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

The 2021-2022 arts and entertainment season for the Orlando Ballet will be one of romance and adventure including a unique program that includes one world premiere and three Orlando premieres. From “The Jungle Book” to “The Nutcracker,” audience members can expect to be immersed in the breathtaking sets and costumes.

The Orlando Philharmonic is expecting a unique and exciting season that represents the diversity in Orlando. Audience members can expect compositions by classics such as Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms as well as a variety of works by women and soloists of color.

Here are the following shows and dates for the season:

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The Jungle Book: October 7-10, 2021 (Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center)

An Evening of Mozart: October 11, 2021

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The Nutcracker: December 3-5 & 16-19, 2021 (Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center)

Dvořák’s Postcard “From The New World”: October 23, 2021

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Hochman, Brahms & Sibelius: November 6, 2021

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Giselle: February 3-6 & 10-13, 2022 (Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre)

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OPO Brass Present Operatic and Symphonic Favorites: November 15, 2021

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Premiere Collection: March 17-20 & 24-27, 2022 (Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre)

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Home for the Holidays: November 27, 2021

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Holly Jolly Sounds of the Season: December 4-5, 2021

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Holiday Baroque with Rimma: December 13, 2021

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Kings of Soul: Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, James Brown, & more: January 15, 2022

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Ferdinand and Bull: February 19-20, 2022

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The Celtic Terrors: March 12, 2022

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Cirque Goes Broadway: April 9, 2022

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Carmina Burana: May 7, 2022

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A Treeful of Monkeys: May 21-22, 2022

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The Great Gatsby: April 28 – May 1, 2022 (Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center)

The Orlando area is full of artful experiences. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most visited art museums and botanical gardens for people of all ages.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum

View the most comprehensive collection of works

by Louis Comfort Tiffany (including his famous lamps), tour the galleries, or watch a lecture of film for free.

Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins

View one of the oldest and most distinguished collections in Florida that ranges from antiquity to contemporary and explore with your children in the education gallery.

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Here are some performances you can look forward to for this season:

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Tour the gardens or the Leu House Museum, participate in a plant clinic or other educational experience, or visit during a special event like the monthly Movie Night.

Mead Botanical Garden

Rent a bed in the community garden, explore various plant collections and wander the butterfly gardens, or participate in a special event such as a Haunted Hike in the Garden on October 28 and 29 or Yoga in the Garden every Wednesday and Saturday.

Orlando Museum of Art

Take a docent-guided tour of the exhibits, participate in engaging learning programs that are designed for all ages, or register for a special artthemed event.

• • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • •

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Law

Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A.

Have Brought Excellence to Central Florida for Over 2 Decades Learn more about the man behind the law firm that provides personalized and dedicated legal representation to individuals throughout the Orlando area, as well as the greater Central Florida region.

M

ichael B. Brehne, Esq. has always had a strong sense of right, wrong and justice.

Throughout his childhood, his career in law enforcement, and as an attorney, Brehne has relied on his instincts to achieve success. Although he has a no-nonsense approach in the courtroom, he is a loyal and compassionate advocate for all of his clients.

Brehne’s clients like his direct, no-nonsense approach because, while he doesn’t sugarcoat their situations, they know he stands behind them 100 percent. Like a bull, he tucks his head down and runs forward with their cases until he either hits a brick wall or breaks through it.

“Before I take on an endeavor, I am positive that I will complete it to the best of my ability,” says Brehne.

In his spare time, Brehne enjoys spending time with his children. They enjoy anything from casual game nights to relaxing cruise vacations. His hobbies include target shooting, exercising and traveling. He is also an avid Florida football fan, a devoted “foodie” and self-proclaimed chef, and enjoys challenging regimens of physical fitness training.

Brehne and his team are proud to celebrate over 20 years of representing

thousands of families during periods of turmoil after accidents or insurance denials.

Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys

Brehne and his team of attorneys provide legal representation on a variety of cases such as automobile and motorcycle accidents, slip and falls and other personal injuries, insurance claim denials, family law and criminal law. The Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A is known in the community for aggressively pursuing their cases until all avenues are exhausted and keeping their clients informed throughout the process. Though outcomes cannot be guaranteed, they have an overwhelming record of favorable outcomes and have won their clients tens of millions of dollars over the years with the most notable being $3,900,000.00 to a single client.

Participation in Central Florida Community

For more than 20 years, Brehne and his team have taken an active approach in supporting worthy causes in the area. Each year, the Ribbon Riders help women who are battling breast cancer celebrate Christmas with the

assistance of the Pink Elves program.

The attorneys also strongly support the youth in the area. As the first private donor to the N.O.P.E. to Dope program put on by the Altamonte Springs Police Department, Brehne funded the event and donated much needed media equipment to the program.

Brehne has also sponsored his own scholarship programs for high school students planning to attend college in the JROTC program and another program awarding an athletic scholarship for an outstanding high school student athlete.

Orlando Personal Injury Law Offices

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. create strategies that are customized to each client’s individual case in order to win.

The team will continue to make sure that each client’s voice is heard during legal proceedings and to continue to positively impact the community. If you are in need of legal representation for an accident, an insurance dispute or divorce, contact our office today for a free consultation (accident and insurance claims only) by calling 407-6452195.

Michael Brehne has dedicated his 24-year career to representing injured people in motorcycle and car accidents, and represents people when their insurance claims have been denied. He has earned a reputation as a tenacious and skilled trial lawyer when representing his clients against large corporate defendants and insurance companies. He is also the author of “Watching Out for Florida Motorcyclists: Legal Rights of Injured Bikers.”

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Accepting New Patients Evening and Weekend Appointments Available

Southwest Orlando Eye Care Dr. Ben Konynenbelt

Pediatric Eye Care Specialist

407-271-8931 www.southwestorlandoeyecare.com

Vision Therapy We create customized programs to improve overall functional vision performance.

Symptoms may include: • Blurred vision • Headaches • Double vision • Tired eyes • Trouble reading/writing • Poor reading comprehension

Myopia Management These treatments are intended to slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness).

If your child has myopia, most likely they will need stronger eyeglasses year after year.

Treatments may include one or a combination of the following: • Eye drops • Multifocal contacts • Ortho-K lenses

Come to us for your everyday eye care needs!

Comprehensive eye exams for all ages • Emergency eye care • Award-winning Optical Boutique

BRAND NEW LOCATION 7208 Sand Lake Road, Ste. 202 Orlando, FL 32819 www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

35

+ IN STYLE

2021 Fall/Winter Color Trends Incorporate these seasonal standout colors to your home, fashion and beauty routine.

By Alina Hoarau

W

ith fall and winter approaching, you may find yourself wanting to change up your beauty routine, style and home decor to match the changing seasons. To help guide you, The Pantone Color Institute has released its Fashion Color Trend Report for 2021-2022.

“Offering a range of pragmatic hues infused with vivifying bright pops, colors for Autumn/Winter 2021/2022 offer a plethora of possibilities that support our lifestyle of continual reinvention and convey a promise of reemergence,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

The color report provides a range of the top ten standout colors of these seasons as the four core classics fashion designers are expected to introduce into their new autumn/winter collections. Here are some of our favorite bold hues.

Mykonos Blue Description: “A brisk blue evocative of the Aegean Sea.” Try it: This oceanic color makes for a classy outfit that can be paired with either white or black. For a striking look, consider adding silver or gold accessories to go hand-in-hand with the boldness of this color. Not only is this a great color for a swimsuit, but it would also make a stunning flowy dress.

Illuminating Description: “Friendly and joyful, an optimistic yellow offering the promise of a sunny day.”

Try it: Although summer is out, yellow is still in. Due to the natural brightness of the color, it has the ability to not only brighten up your look, but it gives you a friendly and approachable appearance.

Leprechaun Description: “Leprechaun is a wondrous green hue emblematic of the mythical imps featured in Irish folklore.”

Try it: If you’re feeling lucky, consider incorporating some green into your look. If not, why not in your living room?

A bold, rich evergreen rug could be the perfect accent your home is missing.

Fuchsia Fedora Description: “Vivid Fuchsia Fedora is a flirtatious, bold pink with allure.”

Try it: Nothing screams confidence like a hot pink lip. Consider wearing a calmer color such as nude or white and finish the look off with your favorite bright pink lipstick to add a pop of flare and chicness to your look.

Rhodonite Description: “Rhodonite is a balancing blue-based purple that aids in achieving one’s highest potential.”

Try it: This color is ideal for that important work or school presentation.

Whenever you need to look professional, this is a great shade to incorporate into your outfit. Try wearing this color in a simple outfit or dress and then pair with some dangly earrings.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

e t a t s E l a e R n i d n e i r F t s e B r u o Y

Alicia Spears

BSBA-Real Estate, Lic. Real Estate Broker, Realtor® GRI, ABR

407-963-9141 www.aliciaspears.com

+ SPORTS & Recreation

Must Play Backyard Games Try these fun, outdoor games to get your family up and moving!

By Alina Hoarau

G

one are the days kids roamed their neighborhoods after school playing all sorts of outdoor games, with their parents just requesting they be home before dark, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in your own backyard.

While traditional games such as flag football or baseball are typical options, consider some of these games the next time you step outside with family and friends.

Bocce ball

The goal is to roll the bocce balls, much like a bowling ball, closest to the target. One team throws the “jack” to determine the target. The balls are color-coordinated to differentiate each team. One point is scored for each ball that is closer to the tagret than the opposing team’s ball. The game finishes once a team achieves a set amount of points.

Pickleball

Originally created by three dads, this game combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong.

While usually played on a court, you can use chalk and tape to create a

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

backyard court split in half by a net.

This game can be played as doubles or singles. Each serve must be made underhand.

Players are not allowed to step into the non-volley zone marked off on the front of each side unless the ball has already bounced on their side.

The ball must bounce at least once on each side of the net for the players to begin volleying it in the air.

Points are only scored by the serving team. Each match is best two out of three games, with game one and two played to eleven points and game three played to five points. All matches must be won by two points.

Horseshoes

The game of horseshoes is played between two or four people. Each team takes turns tossing four horseshoes back-and-forth between two stakes (typically set up 40 feet apart, but this can be adjusted depending on the size of your backyard). Teams stand at opposite ends of the stakes.

Once all four horsehoes are tossed, called an inning, points are calcuated.

The object of the game is to throw your horseshoes closest to the stake.

Horseshoes that are within six inches of the stake are worth one point while those wrapped around the stake, known as ringers, are worth 3 points.

The game is played to 21 points, but the winner must win by two points.

Croquet

This old English game consists of knocking wooden balls with a wooden mallet through a course of metal wickets. Croquet can be set up in your backyard by applying a central peg in the middle of your lawn and placing four wickets on each corner and two wickets on opposite sides of the central peg to create a midpoint between the cornering wickets and central peg. Croquet can be played with up to six people in singles, three versus three, or with teams of two.

Colors can be assigned to distinguish player order. Players each take one turn to correctly guide the ball in the correct order and direction with a mallet. The ball must completely surpass the hoop to be considered a point. The first team to finish with 14 points wins.

t n e m e v o M e h t Join

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+ YOUNG Achiever

Winter Garden Teenager Recognized for Volunteerism Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently recognized 17-year-old Quavion Smith for his contributions to the organization and the mission to fight hunger.

By Kaitlyn Fusco

S

econd Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently recognized several volunteers for their contributions to the organization and the mission to fight hunger. One of the recipients honored at the 2021 Volunteer Awards, held on August 4, was 17-year-old senior at Apopka High School, Quavion Smith.

Smith received the Andre Reyna Award, which recognizes a young individual who goes above and beyond in their volunteer efforts.

“First, my condolences to the family of Andre Reyna. It means a lot to me because we both share the same goal; fighting hunger. I hope that I can continue to spread as much hope as he did,” says Smith. “I would like to thank the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and Ms. Ortiz for choosing me for such a prestigious award. Also, I’d like to thank the Herald of Hope and Ms. Candace for providing me an opportunity to volunteer.”

Mindy Ortiz, Director of Volunteer Services, Second Harvest Food

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Bank of Central Florida says Quavion was selected for this award for “all of the time and dedication that he has provided to our feeding partner, Herald of Hope. He has been a consistent and reliable volunteer there throughout the pandemic. Our mission is to create hope and nourish lives through a powerful hunger relief network, which is exactly what Quavion did by volunteering at Herald of Hope food pantry and helping with its mobile food distributions.”

Since August 2020, Smith has volunteered twice a month at Herald of Hope, a partner pantry of Second Harvest, distributing food to the community.

“First, I started volunteering at Herald of Hope to obtain volunteer hours for a Bright Futures scholarship.

Secondly, I’m volunteering to help my community during these troubling times (Covid-19 Pandemic),” says Smith.

To date, the Winter Garden teenager has logged 68 volunteer hours, which has saved the pantry an

estimated $1,850. Smith’s dedication to volunteering is unwavering according to his grandmother, who stated he’s only missed one Saturday – and that was to take the SAT. “The most rewarding experience was seeing the smiles on the faces of families that I’ve helped,” says Smith.

In his spare time when not studying or volunteering, Smith enjoys playing video games and talking with his friends. His goal for next year is to attend college and major in Business Management.

Second Harvest Food Bank relies on the generosity of all of its volunteers who give their time to help their neighbors facing hunger. “It would be a great challenge to do what we do without them,” says Ortiz.

To volunteer at Second Harvest visit www.feedhopenow.org.

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SAVE THE DATE October 5, 2021 5:30 – 8:30 pm

at the MetroWest Golf Club MetroWest Public Safety, Critical Intervention Services will be hosting National Night Out 2021. Mark your calendars now and watch for more information coming soon!

The annual National Night Out event helps to increase Neighborhood Watch participation by promoting the work that police, fire, residents and businesses do together to make Orlando neighborhoods safer and better places to live.

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+ YOUR Local

How to Reduce

Your Food Waste Food waste prevention begins at home.

By Brittany Hoppenworth

A

ccording to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the United States tossed an estimated 133 billion pounds of food in 2010—including waste from retailers, producers and consumers. To put that into perepsctive, the average American family of four throws away $1,800 worth of food each year.

While food waste is a larger, multi-institutional problem (In fact, the USDA and EPA have set a goal of cutting the food waste in half by 2030), you can start the change in your own home. By doing so, you’ll be helping the environment by conserving resources and curbing greenhouse gases generated from food rotting in landfills, says Brittany McPeak, sustainability project coordinator for the city of Orlando.

“Reducing your food waste is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to reduce your footprint,” she says.

Plan Meals

To curb your food waste, start with not creating it in the first place.

Heading into the grocery store with a list and a dinner plan means you won’t have as many impulse buys that may spoil before you get around to cooking or consuming them.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

“Shop your pantry, freezer, and refrigerator before you go shopping again,” McPeak says. “This uses up food and ensures you don’t buy doubles.”

months and thawed easily when left on the kitchen counter. Best practices for unfreezing meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables: place it in the fridge, in cold water or use the microwave.

Fix Improper Food Storage

Composting

Did you know keeping milk in the door of your refrigerator helps it to spoil faster? That’s because the door is the warmest part of the inside of your fridge. Move that carton to a middle shelf where it will be kept cooler.

As for your fruits and veggies, take a look at your fridge’s drawers. Highhumidity is great for most veggies, especially for greens that wilt. All your other fruits and veggies can go in the low-humidity drawer.

Freeze Food Before it Spoils

“You can also freeze almost anything,” McPeak says. “Freeze your overripe fruits and veggies for smoothies. Freeze the chicken you didn’t get around to cooking.”

Meat, fish and lunch meat can be frozen for up to 12 months. Fresh vegetables, which you should more often than not blanch beforehand to retain color and vibrancy, can be stored in the freezer for 18 months.

Even bread can be frozen for several

Not all food waste can be avoided.

That is where composting comes in. Using natural decomposition, a composter can turn food into nutrient-rich soil that can be used in your garden or on your lawn. It takes a little bit of work to get going, but once you get down the basics, composting can be rewarding.

“Personally, I’ve had my city composter for almost five years now, and it’s amazing how much waste they can divert,” McPeak says.

Those who live in the cities of Orlando or Winter Park can request a free composter from their local governments. Orlando residents also have the option of dropping off their food waste to be recycled at select locations. A list of drop-off locations can be found at Orlando.gov/ foodwaste.

+ YOUR Local

What It Means to Have a Booming Housing Market A look into how the current housing market compares to previous markets and its impact on West Orange communities.

By Stina D’Uva, West Orange Chamber of Commerce

F

orty years ago, my husband Nick and I were in the market to buy our first home together. The housing market then, about 20 years ago, was similar to the current housing market in that the supply was low, demand was high and paying above asking price was the norm.

People were lined up outside homes to try to be the first one in and with the best offer.

Our goal was to find the perfect place in Bergen County, New Jersey, but we found that the market there was widely out of our price range. We settled for a cute, little condo in Rockland County, New York for about $47,000 (above the asking price) in Pomona with an interest rate of 17.75%.

Within less than two years, the real estate market drastically changed, our condo appreciated, and we were able to sell it within 4 days of listing. We scrambled to purchase a small home in our dream town of Dumont in Bergen County with a new, significantly lower interest rate of 12.75%.

Although similar, today’s market compared to the one Nick and I experienced has two main differences – much higher demand and significantly lower, record-breaking interest rates. Even though we paid above asking price, homebuyers today are paying an exuberant amount above asking price due to the intense demand. When we lowered our interest rate to 12.75%, we were ecstatic. Compare that to the current interest rates hovering in the 2.1 to 2.9% range, it’s unheard of.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

In the six-month period from early February to early August 2021, the average sold price of a home in Southwest Orange was $642,882 compared to $497,296 for the same time a year ago. Homes sold during that same period in an average of 6 days compared to 54 days during the start of the pandemic.

There are already signs the market is starting to cool, a little, as we are seeing the amount of days a home is listed increase from 6 to 24 days in the month of August.

Regardless, we are still a popular destination for transplants; the pandemic is just the most recent reason for an influx.

While interest rates may have fluctuated over the three plus decades that Nick and I have lived here, the one constant has been growth. West Orange specifically has always been a desirable area and is known as a great place to work and raise a family with excellent schools, have fun, discover nature and enjoy theme parks while soaking in the Florida sunshine.

One of the newer communities in West Orange is Horizon West; an Orange County master-planned community that was developed after the freezes of the late 80s and early 90s left the orange groves unable to produce fruit. To learn more about this evolving community and the importance of its economic impact, join the West Orange Chamber for our Horizon West Report Luncheon on September 9. Visit https://wochamber.com/event/horizonwest-update-report/ to sign up.

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+ YOUR Local

Rockets, Resiliency and Responsibility COURTESY OF NASA

The first female director of the John F. Kennedy Space Center shares the secret to her success.

By Tarre Beach

J

anet Petro grew up on the Space Coast. In the early ‘60s, her father worked on the Mercury and Gemini space projects. One of five children, she says she didn’t feel like a trailblazer, as she would later become, rather, it was just her nature to never give up. “I was in the middle of my family: two older brothers and two younger sisters. I think I was treated as one of the older kids and that helped me see myself as responsible,” Petro says.

Today, Petro has proven just how responsible she is. On June 30, 2021 she was named the first female director of NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC). This new promotion is certainly an honor but not the only highlight of Petro’s distinctive career.

As a member of the second class of women ever to be accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Petro says watching rockets launched from KSC when she was young made her want to go into aeronautical engineering.

At West Point, Petro fell in love with flying and upon being commissioned as a second lieutenant, decided to go into the aviation branch.

She spent the next five years in the Army flying helicopters. She says that when her time with the Army ended, she decided to get a master’s in business administration from Boston

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

University Metropolitan College and went on to work for aerospace companies where she processed payloads for rockets.

Her advice to young people entering STEM-focused careers is to ask for more. “Put yourself out there. Make sure your colleagues and mentors know that you’re ready and not afraid to take on more work,” she says.

As for being a woman in a male-dominated field, she says her experience at West Point taught her a lot about how to be resilient. “When I got into the private sector, I didn’t go ‘oh my gosh, I’m the only woman in this meeting.’ I had four years of that at West Point and five years of it in the Army. If anything, it pushed me more.”

She says anyone wanting to grow and succeed, no matter the industry, would do well to look past gender and consider what they are bringing to the table and what they can contribute.

In 2018, Petro was recognized for having made significant contributions to the improvement of life for women and all Florida citizens and was inducted into the Florida Women‘s Hall of Fame. It is one of the high points of her career.

“JoAnn Morgan, the first female engineer for NASA, is also in the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame. So, to

be in any group she’s in, I feel pretty special.”

Prior to being named the eleventh director of KSC, Petro was the deputy director there since 2007. That was only three years after President George W. Bush announced that the space shuttle program was ending. Rather than see this as an ending, Petro saw this as a new chapter for KSC. Petro says at West Point they had a saying: “Cooperate to graduate.”

And she continues to carry on that tradition by giving credit for the success of the center to the dedicated and talented workface at KCS, or what she calls the “crown jewel of NASA.”

In Depth: Janet Petro is not alone. NASA has some very encouraging statistics for an industry that in the past has been seen as a male-dominated one.

• 34% of NASA’s professionals are women • 57% of KSC’s leadership are women (with 14% being women of color) • 8% of the Fortune 500 have female top executives (with 0.4% being women of color)

www.MetroWestCommunity.com (407) 601-5995

+ CALENDAR of Events ALL MONTH LONG September 9 - Oct. 31 Halloween Horror Nights Gates open at 6 p.m.

Universal Studios Orlando 6000 Universal Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32819 Pass and ticket options available for purchase.

407-363-8000 Universalorlando.com Experience the thrills of Universal Studios Orlando while at Halloween Horror Nights.

407-545-5550 SeaWorld.com Kids love trick-or-treating during this daytime event as they explore our decorated trail and meet all sorts of colorful characters.

September 18 Red, Blue & BBQ

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Kissimmee Main Street Program 421 Broadway Kissimmee, FL 34741 Tickets from $15-$100.

407-846-4643 kissimmeemainstreet.org Kissimmee Fire Department and Kissimmee Police Department go head-tohead in this backyard BBQ brawl and you get to pick the winner!

September 18 Battle of the Bands 5k September 17 Carlos Santana’s Miracles and Blessings Tour

8 p.m.

Amway Center 400 W. Church St #200 Orlando, FL 32801 Ticket prices vary 407-440-7900 Amwaycenter.com 10-time Grammy Awardwinning Carlos Santana has been the pioneering force behind Afro-Latin rock and returns to Amway Center on September 17 for his Miracles and Blessings Tour.

September 18-Oct. 31 (weekends only) SeaWorld Spooktacular 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.

SeaWorld Orlando 7007 Sea World. Dr. Orlando, FL 32821 Included with park admission

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7:30 a.m.: 5k 8:15 a.m.: Awards Presentation 8:45 a.m.: FREE AdventHealth for Children Kids’ Run 9 a.m.: Battle of the Bands Winner Announcement Lake Concord Park 95 Triplet Lake Dr Casselberry, FL 32707 $33 through Sept. 5. $38 through Sept. 6 - Sept. 17.

407-896-1160 Trackshack.com Runners and walkers can enjoy some great rock n’ roll from local bands on the tree-lined course. The best front lawn cheering sections on the race route will be a rewarded gift card by the mystery runner.

September 19 Hasan Minhaj: The King’s Jester

5:30 and 8 p.m.

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 South Magnolia Avenue Orlando, FL 32801

Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

Prices vary from $45-$25.

407-839-0119 drphillipscenter.org/events Hasan Minhaj returns to his storytelling roots four years after the global success of his Netflix comedy special “Homecoming King.”

September 19-20 2021 Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show

5-6:30 P.M. Orange County Convention Center 9800 International Dr. Orlando, Florida 32819 407-685-9800 Flrestaurantandlodgingshow.com Join 8,000+ of your peers at the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, where you’ll have access to the hottest menu trends, state of the art design and decor, the best in business education and 450 of the leading vendors and purveyors dedicated to serving the restaurant & foodservice community — all under one roof.

AROUND THE CORNER October 2 Best of Challenge: Dessert Edition

11:30 a.m.

General Admission: Free VIP Tasting Admission: $15 Promenade at Sunset Walk 3251 Margaritaville Blvd Kissimmee, FL 34747 407-338-4811 SunsetWalkBestOf.com Promenade at Sunset Walk presents the Best of Challenge: Dessert Edition, showcasing the signature desserts of the Promenade’s amazing venues, plus Margaritaville Resort Orlando.

September 25 Puppy Paw-ty

8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Tickets: $29.95 Museum of Illusions 8441 International Drive Suite, #250 Orlando, FL 32819 833-541-0992 moiorlando.com If you love your dogs as much as we think you do, let’s throw them a paw-ty!

The second Puppy Paw-ty at Museum of Illusions Orlando will be open EXCLUSIVELY for you and your fur babies to come join for a fun doggy date, where you can take endless photos of your pups with the museum’s optical illusions.

October 8, 9 and 10 BBQ and Blues Festival

Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Lakeridge Winery 19239 US-27 Clermont, FL 34715 Admission is $10. Children under 12 are free 352-394-8627 lakeridgewinery.com Some of the nation’s best BBQ teams compete for the top prize in this event at Lakeridge Winery, Clermont. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the South Lake Chamber of Commerce.

MUSEUM MUSEUM OF OF ILLUSIONS ILLUSIONS

Bring your furry friends to Museum of Illusions for a morning filled with illusions, costumes, and the most adorable Instagram-worthy pictures!

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SATURDAY SEPT 25, 2021 Time: 8AM-11AM Admission:$29.95+tax

Located at ICON Park® Visit www.moiorlando.com to learn more today!

+ SOMEONE You Should Know

Spotlight On: Peter Warhurst Get to know this Central Florida-based entrepreneur who is disrupting the moving industry with “fetchable” storage.

By Brittany Hoppenworth

A

fter a successful career as a serial entrepreneur, Peter Warhurst decided to retire. But some ideas are too good to let go and it wasn’t long before he found himself starting yet another business: Red Rover, a company that helps people move and store their belongings.

It works like this: You select the size of the storage container you need. Then you pick up your truck with the aforementioned storage container already loaded on the back. Fill your container with your items and bring it back to Red Rover. The company will keep your storage container secure until you’re ready to move. And if you’re moving long distance, Red Rover will ship the container to your new location.

The company calls the concept “fetchable” storage.

Warhurst, who serves as CEO of Red Rover, says he still wakes up many mornings wondering why he decided to forego retirement and take on the responsibilities that come with heading a business. But the truth is he truly enjoys the work.

“I’m having a blast,” he says.

Warhurst’s background is in the moving and storage industry. In 1997, he founded PODS, which stands for Portable On Demand Storage. He helped grow PODS to over 100 corporate and franchise locations in the U.S., Canada and Australia, before selling the company in 2007. His experience at PODS is what led him to create Red Rover.

Red Rover launched in Tampa Bay just before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted life in the United States.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | September 2021

At first, Warhurst and his team, unsure of what effect the pandemic would have, decided to pull back and delay a big marketing campaign.

“Then we realized, we actually fit the COVID environment very well because of the independence we give to the consumer,” he says.

The COVID-19 pandemic also changed Warhurst’s strategy for Red Rover. Instead of focusing on opening additional locations in Florida, the company expanded to other states to capitalize on the glut of people who were propelled by the pandemic to move south.

“We were capturing dozens and dozens of distance moves by changing the strategy to open up northern markets instead of opening the additional Florida markets so we could get the people moving down,” he says.

Warhurt’s other ventures have included: co-founding a 911 routing software business, which he sold in 1992; developing the precursor to PODS, a company called Florida Mini-Storage that he sold in 1997; and creating a car wash concept that he sold in 2019.

Warhurst was raised in Long Island, New York. For the last 12 years, he’s lived in Keene’s Pointe in west Orange County.

“There’s always something fun and exciting to do,” he says of Central Florida.

When he’s not working, Warhurst loves boating, golfing, fishing and flying planes.

D E V E R E U X A D VA N C E D B E H AV I O R A L H E A LT H F L O R I D A

Behavioral Support Program

Offering Hope for Youth with Autism When Mental Health Challenges Escalate

How You Can Get Involved with Devereux’s Mission Devereux Behavioral Health Florida unlocks and nurtures human potential for people living with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Community support has been the key to providing life-changing services for individuals and families facing challenges from these diagnoses. There are several ways you can get involved.

Refer: If your family is experiencing any of the challenges mentioned in this article, you don’t have to face it alone.

Devereux is recognized nationally for its expert level of care for families just like yours. For immediate help for your family or a family you know, reach out directly to FLBehavioralSupport@devereux.org.

Gain Support: Do you need help with understanding your child’s diagnosis and managing their behaviors? Devereux can provide the tools your family needs. Sign up for training announcements or receive more information by emailing FLBehavioralSupport@devereux.org.

Learn: Interested in learning more about the services Devereux provides for individuals and families in crisis? For more information about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida, visit www.devereuxFL.org.

Donate: A contribution of $25 provides a virtual consultation session to a family in need. Text “DevereuxFlorida” to 41444 to make a monetary gift.

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