Central Florida Lifestyle: Windermere August 2020

DR. PHILLIPS | BAY HILL | ISLEWORTH | METROWEST | WINTER GARDEN

Windermere LIFESTYLE

AUGUST 2020

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APPS TO DOWNLOAD THIS SCHOOL YEAR

Windermere Preparatory School BRINGS STUDENTS TOGETHER AGAIN

INSIDE

TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH PART 3 OF OUR SPECIAL SUMMER SERIES

PLAY BALL!

THE RETURN OF PROFESSIONAL SPORTS

Photo Courtesy of Windermere Preparatory School

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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We know how important it is to ensure your child is healthy and ready for the new school year. Orlando Health Physician Associates makes it safer and easier than ever with virtual appointments and extended hours at your neighborhood family medicine or pediatric practices.

Reserve your visit for: • School physicals • Immunizations, including flu shots • Healthy lifestyle management tools

OrlandoHealth.com/BacktoSchool

+ LETTER From the Publisher

Embrace Change Change is never easy. It can be uncomfortable, challenging and even scary.

It can also feel empowering once you get to the other side – something to consider for parents who are adapting to a virtual learning environment, business owners who are shifting plans to accommodate new guidelines and especially anyone who is making a career change just to get by.

We see you and we’re proud of you.

Experts say it takes, on average, 66 days for a new habit to become automatic.

So don’t worry if you have to run back to the car because you forgot your mask or if you accidentally went the wrong way down the grocery store aisle. We’re living in unusual times, and it’s going to take time to get used to the changes that we’re being asked to adopt for the health and safety of our fellow neighbors. As long as we’re patient with each other, we’ll be OK. As we all bank on the fact that the foreseeable future will continue to include change, we hope that you will turn to Central Florida Lifestyle to forget about the real world for a little while. We hope you will smile, laugh and maybe learn something you never knew before as you flip through the pages.

As always, thank you for welcoming us into your home every month. Happy reading!

CEO/PUBLISHER Kristi Gomen kristi@karstmediagroup.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lyndsay Fogarty lyndsay@karstmediagroup.com DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA & SPECIAL EVENTS Catie Moore catie@karstmediagroup.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Matt Richardson matt@karstmediagroup.com SALES & MARKETING CONSULTANT Gretchen Hahn gretchen@karstmediagroup.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eric Alberts, Michael Brehne, Mary Deatrick,

Kristi Gomen Publisher

Stina D’Uva, Nancy Glasgow, Nick Moore, Kim Praniewicz, Amanda Reineck, Sarah Reynolds

CONTACT US

FOR ADVERTISING INFO

407-449-2022

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

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+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | August 2020 Departments 6

5 Reasons to Do Your School Shopping

at Goodwill

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Play Ball!

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Features 8

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THE CLEAR WAY TO A CONFIDENT SMILE

Premiere Orthodontics is now open and has put new procedures in place with patient safety in mind.

TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH

Part three of an in-depth, three-part series on refocusing, recommitting and taking care of YOU. Body. Mind. Spirit.

METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION

Meet the board of directors and get to know what the organization is doing to ensure a protected community is a connected community.

WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL: TOGETHER AGAIN

A look at what students and families can expect at Windermere Preparatory School in the 2020-21 school year.

STAY & PLAY

Join us for part three of a special three-part series focused on summer fun in Florida.

Web Life

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Go online for stories and photos not seen in print.

• More stories from local communities • An expanded web calendar

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

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DID YOU KNOW?

SPORTS & RECREATION

IN THE KITCHEN What’s in Your Lunch Box?

BON APPÉTIT Foodie Finds in Orlando

EXPERT ADVICE LAW Personal Injury 101 Will College Prep Look Different This School Year?

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TECH TRENDS 4 Apps to Download for School

INSTYLE 4 Ways to Wear Your Mask

YOUR LOCAL Going Back to School in a Pandemic Spotlight on the Tangelo Park Program

HOMESTYLE 6 On-Trend Kitchen and Bath Upgrades

WHAT’S HAPPENING Calendar of Events

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SCHOOL NEWS When Back to School Isn’t Back

to Normal

7824 Lake Underhill Rd. #G Orlando, FL 32822

(407) 282.7498 www.PhantasticSmile.com

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GET TO KNOW DR. PHAN AND HIS FRIENDLY TEAM!

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The Man Behind Beautiful Smiles Dr. Phan earned the prestigious Mastership Award from The Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), placing him among the 1% of general dentists throughout the United States and Canada that hold this title. Currently, Dr. Phan serves as a Florida Dental Examiner for The Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA).

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+ DID YOU Know?

Reasons to Do Your School Shopping at Goodwill

Feel good about shopping for school supplies with this local nonprofit.

By Kim Praniewicz

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ith so much change during the past six months, it’s hard to say for sure what the future will bring. But, at least for now, it looks like Florida schools will be back in session this fall.

At a time of year when Americans usually crowd store aisles with kids in tow, parents are learning to navigate a new kind of back-toschool shopping: one that means price-matching earbuds and webcams alongside erasers and whiteboards.

So why not simplify your school supply run — and save money — by shopping at Goodwill instead? You can find school essentials at great prices, and with every item you check off your list, you’ll be supporting critical programs that help neighbors in need.

•Y ou can protect the family budget. According to the National Retail Federation, American families planned to spend almost $700 per household on school shopping last fall. No matter your family’s financial situation, now is a good time to be more frugal — and thrifting for school supplies is an easy way to save. At Goodwill,

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

you can find lightly used clothes, shoes, dorm décor, pens, colored pencils, classroom supplies and more at a steep discount from big-box retailers.

It’s better for the environment.

• Here’s something they don’t tell you about the back-to-school deals: The apparel industry is a big contributor to pollution and waste. Plus, a lot of those clothes (and backpacks, pencil cases and laptop bags) wind up in a landfill after a short period of use.

Shopping at Goodwill helps to divert more than 3 billion pounds of clothing and household goods from landfills every year.

• You can be the fun parent. After months of stressing about how to keep the kids entertained at home, give yourself a break. Thanks to the lower price tags at Goodwill, you can get extra goodies for your kids with room in your budget to spare.

Books, toys, DVDs, puzzles and games are easy to find in like-new condition at your local store.

•Y ou’re sharing your values with your children. Kids have a selective memory, as any parent knows.

But one thing they’ll always remember is the example you set for them. It’s great to talk to your family about the importance of sustainability and charity, but the lesson is more likely to stick if you follow through with action.

•Y ou’re creating jobs. Part of Goodwill’s mission is to help our neighbors achieve their goals. As tens of thousands of local families struggle with job loss and financial hardship in the wake of COVID-19, that’s more important than ever. When you shop at Goodwill, you’re helping a neighbor in need access job placement services, career counseling, vocational training and other essential resources.

Goodwill has 30 retail locations across six Central Florida counties, including a newly opened store in Lake Nona. The nonprofit is committed to the safety of shoppers, donors and employees at all stores, backing up that promise with ongoing precautions. You’ll dodge the crowds, find great bargains, and most important, feel good about where your money is going.

+ SPORTS & Recreation

Major League Baseball returns amid uncertainty.

Play Ball!

By Nick Moore

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ajor League Baseball is the latest sport to return amongst the COVID-19 pandemic. And, as is the case with all sports that have returned or will return in 2020, the product looks drastically different than it ever has before.

All 30 MLB teams began a 60game, truncated regular season on July 23 and July 24. The shortest regular season on record has allowed for experimentation on and off the field, including major changes to the traditional format of America’s favorite past time.

Change Up

Like most other sports, baseball will go on without fans in attendance. They have been replaced with cardboard cutouts of fans that were available for purchase by individual franchises. Fake crowd noise will play over the speakers inside stadiums. Fans watching from remote locations are dictating what type of noise it will be, cheers or boos, from a mobile app.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

Teams schedules will limit travel. They include 10 games for each team against its four divisional opponents and 20 against the opposite league’s corresponding geographical division (for example, NL Central vs. AL Central). The short schedule also prompted changes to the injured-reserve list. The former 60-day IL is now just 45 days.

The playoffs will now include 16 teams, with first and second place teams from all divisions qualifying. First round series will be best of three, with higher-seeded teams hosting all three games. The Divisional rounds will continue as bestof-five series. League Championship and World Series rounds will remain best of seven.

Differences on the Diamond

On-field behavior is among the biggest changes in Major League Baseball’s 2020 season. The use of tobacco products and spitting is no longer allowed. Celebrations, such as high-fives, fist-bumps and hugs, are also banned. Managers are prohib-

ited from arguing calls with umpires face-to-face.

Facial coverings will be mandatory at all times, except on the field during play. Players on the field have the option to wear them. Personnel in the dugouts will wear them at all times. Team employees and players not participating in games occupy seats in the stands, safely socially distanced.

Other changes include rules for games that go to extra innings, which will now begin with a player on second base during the regular season.

Travel Restrictions

Unlike professional basketball, Major League Baseball is traveling throughout the season. Players will remain seated throughout the duration of flights, except for bathroom use. At hotels, teams will occupy lower-level rooms and are discouraged from the use of elevators. Other popular amenities, such as hotel restaurants, bars, fitness rooms and swimming pools, are also off limits.

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

NONA PHOTOGRAPHY

The Clear Way to a Confident Smile Premiere Orthodontics is now open and has put new procedures in place with patient safety in mind.

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beautiful smile not only improves your image but it boosts your confidence. Even now, during times of stress and uncertainty, familiar activities such as working out or getting a haircut make you feel good and have the power to completely change your mood. Dr. Jason Battle of Premiere Orthodontics says teeth are an important part of that.

“When you look good, you feel good,” he says.

Over the past two years, Dr. Battle has brought new technology into his practice that reduces the number of orthodontics visits required of his patients. An initial visit is no longer necessary to establish patient goals and treatment plans, and many follow-up visits can also be completed through virtual appointments. Not only does this offer peace of mind, but it also makes the process much easier.

Using a traditional method for a clear aligner treatment plan using Invisalign and 3M, with minimal assistance from traditional braces, aligners are changed out every one to two weeks. The accelerated treatment plan allows Dr. Battle to cut the treatment time in half. Even complex surgical cases involving major under bites and over bites can be handled with the same treatment plan as more simple orthodontics cases, and these patients can take advantage of virtual visits, too.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

“My patients can reach their smile goals faster with the accelerated treatment plan, and I’m there for them every step of the way,” Dr. Battle says. “I’ll do whatever it takes to get them to happiness.”

Additionally, patient safety is a priority at Premiere Orthodontics.

That’s why Dr. Battle has established several changes to his practice with safety in mind for when in-office visits are needed. The goal is to have less traffic and less contact points while providing the same great service and treatment. New procedures include: •T aking the temperature of every person who enters •K eeping patients 6 feet or more apart in accordance with social distancing guidelines •A sking patients to wear masks while inside the office •A sking patients to text when they’re outside and meeting them to record their temperature and survey their health history before entering •B ringing one patient at a time into the office •H and sanitizer for patient use •A dding air filters •P rivate operatory areas with walls With these new in-office precautions and availability of virtual visits, there’s no need to put off your orthodontic treatment.

How Do Virtual Appointments Work?

Once a treatment plan is set, Dr. Battle offers HIPPA- compliant virtual consultations so his patients’ progress can be monitored from the comfort of their own home. The process is simple.

1. The patient uses their cell phone to take six photos of their teeth. Sample photos are available on www.BattleOrtho.com.

2. T hen, the patient texts the photos to the Premiere Orthodontics office, along with their name, email address, any concerns for their teeth and a photo of their dental insurance card to verify information.

3. Dr. Battle reviews virtual consultation submissions seven days a week to offer a prompt response.

Dr. Phillips Office 7009 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Ste. 200 Orlando, FL 32819 407.381.3376 Waterford Lakes Office 448 S. Alafaya Trail, Ste. 10 Orlando, FL 32828 407.381.3335 www.BattleOrtho.com

Dedicated to serving our entire community locally.

Apopka • Bithlo • Clermont • Forest City • Groveland • Lake Ellenor • Leesburg • Meadow Woods • Pine Hills • Tavares • Winter Garden

We view our patients as unique individuals that deserve personalized care. Each patient has a very special need, and we strive to develop programs that not only meet these needs but also exceed the expectations of those receiving care.

For appointment information call (407) 905-8827.

We are currently accepting new patients: • Behavioral Health • Dentistry • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Optometry • Pediatrics • Case Management • Family Planning • Lab • Pharmacy • X-Ray

chcfl.org

For more information on our locations, services, or available career opportunities, please visit

community health centers

Did you know?

Community Health Centers, Inc. is one of our region’s largest not-for-profit providers of health and wellness services, caring for nearly 70,000 patients annually and contributing $8 87.9 million in economic impact on our region. www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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TAKE BACK

YOUR

HEALTH Part three of an in-depth, three-part series on refocusing, recommitting and taking care of YOU. Body. Mind. Spirit.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

TAKE BACK YOUR: HEALTH

6 Hurricane Prep Tips During COVID-19 It’s more important than ever this season to plan ahead and be ready for a storm at any time.

By Eric Alberts, Orlando Health

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ut of necessity, our regular hurricane preparedness plan has been enhanced due to COVID-19. The demand for supplies is high, which will be very stressful for many, so it’s important to plan ahead.

1. Secure Your Supplies

Having an emergency kit prepared is recommended.

With additional threats of infection this season due to COVID-19, you should also have masks and sanitary wipes on hand.

Begin adding to and building your hurricane kit now, as these sorts of items may be harder to find as the season progresses. Items to consider adding to your emergency kit include: • W ater (one gallon per person per day for 3+ days) • N onperishable food for 3+ days • N ational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio • F lashlight and extra batteries • F irst aid kit and fire extinguisher • W histle (to signal for help) • D ust mask (to filter contaminated air) • P lastic sheeting and duct tape • M oist towelettes, soap, hand sanitizer, garbage bags, plastic ties • W rench or pliers • M anual can opener • L ocal maps • C ell phone with chargers and/or backup battery • P rescriptions • I mportant paperwork and legal documents • B aby supplies • P et food and extra water for your pet

3. Care for Your Elderly

Elderly family members should be a priority in your preparedness plan. Get any necessary medications and supplies ahead of time so they’re ready if your family needs to evacuate. Call and ask what you can provide for them: extra tissues, sanitizing cloths or prescription medications.

Encourage them to step up their planning efforts as well.

4. Prepare Your Home

If you have an urgent project caused by previous damage (such as roof damage), now is the time to fix it so your home can better withstand any storms you may face. Financially plan and look for opportunities to save so you have extra funds available in case of an emergency. Prepare an emergency contact list that includes contractors and companies that can fix damages to your home following a hurricane.

5. Safely Seek Shelter

Many have asked what we can do in hurricane shelters to minimize the impact of COVID-19. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has new guidelines in light of the pandemic. If you’re in a shelter, remember to follow COVID-19 social distancing guidelines and use personal protective equipment such as face masks and gloves.

6. Plan Ahead

It’s especially important this year to know what you and your loved ones are going to do in case of a natural emergency. COVID-19 is still an active threat, so do what is needed now to allow you to be safer later. Heed these warnings and take them seriously by talking with your family about what you are going to do and take action.

2. Prepare Your Loved Ones

It’s essential to have a plan in place. Discuss what your family will do, and write down an emergency preparedness plan for both those you live with and others you care for, especially if they have special needs. Be ready to put your plan into action at any time.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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TAKE BACK YOUR: HEALTH

7 Foods That Keep You Hydrated It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in sunny Florida. Here’s how to do it with food.

Courtesy of Healthy West Orange

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t can be easy to fall behind in your water intake during the hot summers. In addition to water and other healthy drinks, you can eat foods that contribute to your fluid intake, helping to prevent the headaches and sluggishness caused by dehydration.

Another good reason to eat water? Research shows that eating foods that are full of water helps keep you satisfied on fewer calories. Learn about these seven foods that hydrate, with expert info from the Cleveland Clinic.

1. Cucumbers

Cucumbers hydrate and replenish your skin. In addition to containing 95% water, cucumbers are rich in antiinflammatory compounds that help remove waste from the body and reduce skin irritation. Preliminary research also suggests cucumbers promote anti-wrinkling and anti-aging activity.

2. Celery

Celery will satisfy your craving for crunch. It’s also tied with cucumbers and iceberg lettuce at 95% water by weight. You can feel good about eating celery because of its low-calorie count and high value in vitamin K, folate and potassium. It’s yummy with peanut butter, hummus or your favorite dip.

3. Iceberg Lettuce

Ice, ice, baby! This type of lettuce contains 95% water and will definitely help you stay hydrated and cool. That makes it a good hydrating base for your summer salad. However, if you prefer the heart-healthy benefits of leafy greens instead, spinach is a good alternative at 91% water by weight. All green everything!

4. Zucchini

Like its relatives in the cucumber and melon families, this summer squash has a high-water content — almost 95%.

Better yet, zucchini packs in antioxidants such as betacarotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Those last two are especially important for eye health.

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5. Watermelon

No surprise here — “water” is in the name, after all. Watermelon flesh contains 91% water. This summer treat also contains abundant lycopene, which can help protect cells from sun damage and improve your complexion.

6. Strawberries

They’re sweet enough that you can eat them for dessert, but the benefits of strawberries go beyond flavor and 91% water content. They provide a rich source of flavonoids, compounds associated with improved cognitive function. For example, one study associated eating more berries with delayed cognitive aging of up to 2.5 years.

7. Cauliflower

Surprised? Well, cauliflower is actually 92% water by weight.

It’s rich in vitamin C, vitamin K and other key essentials. Try it mashed as a substitute for mashed potatoes or use it to prepare pizza crust!

Eat and Drink Up!

So, while you’re packing your picnic lunch, don’t forget the hydrating snacks! There are so many yummy options to choose from.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

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HEALTHYWESTORANGE.ORG www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

Lifestyle Magazine_070820C.indd 1

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7/8/20 4:26 PM

TAKE BACK YOUR: HEALTH

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

to Address Your Pain

These Central Florida residents turned to Phoenix Integrated Medical Center for relief after living with pain for too long.

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hen it comes to health, men don’t always listen to the hints their bodies are giving them. It’s easy to tough out the pain instead of taking it as an indicator that something is up. That’s exactly what, Mike Brown and Maurice “Saki” O’Sullivan, did before turning to Dr. Troy Yeomans of Phoenix Integrated Medical Center for relief.

Brown suffered a rotator cuff injury after a fall.

After several weeks of sharp pain, inability to turn his neck or head and difficulty completing simple tasks such as turning a door handle, he had two options: surgery or regenerative medicine. So he consulted with Dr. Yeomans, who suggested stem cell therapy to promote tissue repair in the affected area.

Brown visited the office for an injection into his shoulder. He now has 99% use of his shoulder with no pain, and he’s even started hitting the punching bag again for exercise — something he wouldn’t have considered before the treatment.

“It, without a doubt, made 100% difference,” Brown says. “He’s definitely helped me and kept me from several surgeries, too.”

Similarly, O’Sullivan dealt with foot pain for several months before being diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.

His pain was hovering between eight and nine, and orthotics, boots and cortisone shots weren’t working.

With a trip to Machu Picchu looming, he visited Dr. Yeomans on his daughter-in-law’s recommendation.

After two weeks of manipulation still wasn’t touching the pain, Dr. Yeomans suggested plateletrich plasma therapy. PRP uses healing properties from the patient’s blood to restart the body’s inflammatory process in an attempt to heal the area faster and better than the body did on its own.

“It was fairly intimidating, but I got the PRP shot and within an hour, my pain was probably a two on a 10-point scale,” O’Sullivan remembers. “I call it my miracle.”

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

O’Sullivan notes that Dr. Yeomans never overpromised and that he was the only person who came up with a therapy that resolved his pain, something that many of his patients agree on.

Living in pain doesn’t have to be the norm. Get back to a pain-free life by scheduling an appointment at PhoenixIMC.com.

Meet Dr. Troy Yeomans Dr. Troy Yeomans, a Winter Park native, was inspired to practice regenerative medicine after he was faced with potential surgery following an unexpected sports injury but achieved successful results with non-surgical options instead.

During a game of softball, the familiar motion of picking up a ground ball caused a herniated disc in his back. He traveled to a doctor, who worked with him on a treatment plan that included spinal decompression therapy and class IV laser therapy.

It was that combination of regenerative medicine therapies that he credits with completely healing him without surgical intervention.

Dr. Yeomans has been practicing in Central Florida for 20 years. He started Phoenix Integrated Medical Center as a metaphor for his life and rebirth in his practice but also as a symbol for how he wants his patients to feel. To learn more about solutions without surgery, call 407-637-8300 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

SOLUTIONS WITHOUT SURGERY REGENERATIVE MEDICINE IS AN EFFECTIVE AND SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO SURGERY! Herniated Disc Rotary Cuff Tendonitis Tennis Elbow Meniscus Injury Neck or Back Pain Shoulder or Elbow Pain Hip Pain Knee Pain

• • • • • • • •

RELIEF IS POSSIBLE WITHOUT SURGERY! REDUCE OR ELIMINATE PAIN UTILIZING THE FOLLOWING TREATMENTS: • Platelet-Rich-Plasma Therapy (PRP) • Regenerative Medicine • Class IV Laser Treatment

• Viscosupplementation for Osteoarthritis Relief • Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression

Due to potential complications or negative outcomes, surgery should be your very last option.

There is no single treatment that works for everyone. At Phoenix Integrated Medical Center, our belief is that nobody should live in pain, and everybody should take their health very seriously.

FOR SOLUTIONS WITHOUT SURGERY, CALL TODAY FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION.

407-637-8300 | www.phoeniximc.com 1936 Lee Road, Suite 137 | Winter Park, FL 32789 Dr. Aida Reyes M.D | Natalie Glover, APRN | Dr. Troy Yeomans DC | The patient & any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, exam or treatment which is performed as a result within 72 hours or responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted or reduced fee service, exam or treatment.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ IN THE Kitchen

Florida Chicken, Avocado and Swiss Wrap Courtesy of Fresh From Florida

What’s In Your

Lunch Box? School lunches don’t have to be boring with these tips and ideas.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

W

ith kids heading back to school this month, whether it’s in-person or virtual learning, parents have a lot on their plates. No matter where they will be doing their school work, their lunchtime menu can be planned now so it’s anything but boring.

A healthy lunch with plenty of fruits and vegetables will help your child stay focused on learning throughout the day. Keep it fun by preparing lunch Bento style, including a protein, vegetable, fruit and dessert.

Roll Swiss cheese and lowsodium turkey together, slice them into small rounds and add a side of

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

crackers to make your own (healthier) Lunchable. This meal can be customized to your child’s tastes by swapping out the protein, using a different cheese or even wrapping it in a tortilla instead.

Other tasty ideas that will last in the lunch box include BLT wraps and salads with dressing on the side to keep the veggies from getting soggy.

Also try an Italian-style pasta salad with pepperoni, mozzarella cheese and Italian dressing.

There may be extra supplies to get and extra decisions to make for school this year, but what to have for lunch doesn’t have to be one of those decisions.

Looking for a healthy lunch that tastes good? Utilize Florida ingredients, such as chicken and avocado, for a wrap that will have your kids coming back for more.

INGREDIENTS: • 3 Florida chicken breasts • 1 large Florida avocado, peeled and sliced •4 slices Swiss cheese •4 whole-wheat wraps • 1 /4 cup plain yogurt • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 1 lemon, juiced • 1 lime, juiced •S ea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl combine the yogurt, mustard, and lemon juice; season with sea salt and pepper, to taste. Place two slices of cheese on top of each wrap, place on a cookie sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese melts. Remove from the oven and add chicken slices to each wrap. Add sliced avocado, sprinkle with lime juice, and top with yogurt sauce. Fold the wrap to create a sandwich.

Source: FollowFreshFromFlorida.com

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COURTESY OF THE METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION

MetroWest:

A Connected Community is a Protected Community

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How the MetroWest Master Association works with Critical Intervention services to keep the residents and businesses within the MetroWest community safe.

By Nancy Glasgow

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etroWest is celebrating the seventh year of partnership with Critical Intervention Services (CIS), a Florida-based security agency that specializes in enhancing public safety through its Safe Communities Programs.

The CIS Safe Communities Programs focus on two key principles to contribute to the overall public safety of the communities they help protect.

First, CIS focuses on connecting with community stakeholders, residents, businesses, property managers, local law enforcement partners and security providers. Second is the character of the officers hired, with the hiring process for public safety officers rival20

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

ing most law enforcement agencies by including intense screening/interviewing, testing, education and prior experience requirements.

“Having officers with strong character is extremely important, as our public safety officers (PSO) must establish trust with our community members,” says Shannon Bryson, MetroWest Public Safety Director.

“MetroWest PSOs serve as community liaisons, building relationships with community members, businesses, the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and other law enforcement officials and entities.”

MetroWest Master Association General Manager Julie Sanchez be-

came aware of CIS in 2013 when she was approached at a multi-family/ community association management tradeshow.

“At first, I thought that CIS would be just another security provider vendor. Then I sat down with CIS to learn more about their communitybased methodology, and I realized that this was the partner MetroWest Master Association needed,” Sanchez says.

CIS was engaged by the MetroWest Master Association to take a deeper dive into the public safety issues MetroWest was experiencing.

An 18-month study revealed the tremendous importance of community stakeholders — including law enforce-

COURTESY OF THE METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION

ment, local security, property managers, local businesses and residents — all working together for public safety.

The study also showed a disconnect within the community with regard to the perception of crime versus the reality. During the 18 months of the study, CIS looked at crime statistics for MetroWest specifically and engaged community members and stakeholders about their perceptions of crime in the community. The results showed that the perception of crime within MetroWest did not match the actual crime statics, letting CIS know this, too, would need to be addressed.

As a result, the first of its kind in the country “Private Sector Led Public Safety Program” was born as part of the larger “Safe Communities Programs” that CIS focuses on throughout their operations. The program is based on the unique methodology of the Community and Character Based Protection Initiative (CCBPI), which focuses on establishing trust and building relationships and connections among community members.

This unique methodology educates, allows and encourages community members and stakeholders to actively take a role in their own public safety.

MetroWest as a whole consists of 36 residential communities and more than 500 commercial businesses with more than 100 of those being retail.

MetroWest PSOs travel within the communities and commercial areas on foot, on bicycles and in public safety vehicles to get to know community members, get them connected and educate them about the Public Safety Program. In 2019, MetroWest PSOs were involved in more than 22,000 community/business contacts within MetroWest, a clear indication that the program is unifying owners, businesses, managers and residents to promote the highest standards of public safety.

“Our Private Sector Led Public Safety Program is tailored to MetroWest’s specific needs and is based on establishing trust and building relationships and connections among community members,” Bryson says. “We have seen that creating and maintaining those community connections has strengthened the social capital of MetroWest.”

The success of the CIS Safe Communities Program is dramatically evident when comparing crime and resident turnover rates in the MetroWest area between 2013 (when the program started) and 2017:

COURTESY OF THE METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION

• 1 6% overall decrease in auto theft • 4 5.8% overall decrease in vandalism • 16.3% overall decrease in violent acts • 6 3.9% overall decrease in residential burglary • Residential

property managers reported 95-98% occupancy rates and 65-70% renewals in 2017, with a 2-5% increase year-by-year of the program.

MetroWest Master Association and CIS, along with OPD, have also facilitated the process by which MetroWest communities can implement the principles of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) in order to achieve Crime Free Certification from OPD. Attaining Crime Free Certification is a threephase process, requiring an eight-hour certification class, inspections by both the OPD and Orlando Utilities Commission, and fulfilling Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design requirements.

In all, 11 MetroWest communities have received Crime Free Cer-

Simple tips for a safer community from MetroWest Public Safety: • Report! Your eyes and ears are value added to our public safety strategy.

• E ngage! Get to know your neighbors. If you look out for them, they are more likely to look out for you. e mindful! Unlocked homes • B and cars and open garages are an invitation for opportunistic criminals. Bicycles and valuable items left in yards can quickly disappear. hink first! Do not confront or • T follow suspicious persons or individuals engaging in criminal activity. Call 911 or report the matter to the Orlando Police Department.

tification, with continued efforts to achieve the goal of all communities becoming crime free.

Since becoming the first community in the United States to adopt the CIS Private Sector Led Public Safety Program, MetroWest has built strong and effective partnerships with OPD, local residents, business owners and other community organizations, which have led to demonstrable positive results such as rental retention and increased rents and home values year over year.

“The MetroWest Public Safety Program is a cornerstone of our effort to make MetroWest a great place to live, work, play and connect,” Sanchez says.“We envision the continued success of our Public Safety Program because it has definitely proved since its conception that a connected community is a protected community.” www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

21

Leading

in Difficult Times Meet the MetroWest Master Association Board of Directors.

By Nancy Glasgow

T

he many challenges presented by COVID-19 require strong community leadership and the ability to make tough decisions. Fortunately, MetroWest Master Association (MWMA) is led by a dynamic and involved board of directors, all of whom live in MetroWest. Recently, in light of the pandemic, the MWMA Board of Directors made the decision to suspend all community events through the end of the year, including the monthly MetroWest Food Truck Connection, October’s National Night Out and WinterFest in December.

“We made this decision with the health and safety of our community foremost in our considerations,” MWMA Board President Jim Drayton says. “We look forward to resuming these signature events when conditions regarding COVID-19 have improved.”

MWMA Board Vice President Stina D’Uva says, “As much as we love our wonderful community events, we want to protect our fellow MetroWest residents and businesses.

So, with their well-being in mind, we decided to suspend these events.”

MWMA board members are elected for two-year terms. Following are the current MWMA board members:

Jim Drayton

President Palma Vista Jim Drayton’s professional background in banking, finance and real estate, coupled with his current role as the owner of mortgage company Orlando Home Loans, have helped manage the MetroWest Master Association wisely and well. A 13year resident of MetroWest, Drayton served as a board member from 2010-2011 and currently serves as the 22

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

president of the MWMA Board of Directors, a position he was elected to in December 2013. He combines his financial acumen with his passion for the community to ensure that MetroWest continues to thrive.

Stina D’Uva

Vice President Fairway Cove Agostina “Stina” D’Uva has been an integral leader in the Orlando community throughout her illustrious career. As president and CEO, her direction has helped grow the West Orange Chamber of Commerce into a thriving business force, recognized as a two-time winner of the coveted Chamber of the Year Award from the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals.

D'Uva's career blossomed upon her arrival to MetroWest in 1989. She served as the Greater Orlando Mothers of Twins and Triplets Club president, MetroWest Elementary School PTA president, Gotha Middle School PTSA president and SAC chairman, board member and chairman of the Health Central Foundation, president of the Fairway Cove Homeowners’ Association and founding president of the Olympia High School PTSA. She served on the MWMA Board of Directors from 2008 to 2009 before becoming president in 2010 and serving through 2012. She was reelected to the board in November 2014. These are just a few highlights of her extensive community involvement.

D'Uva's volunteer service was recognized as Orange County’s District 1 Citizen of the Year in 2007 and as the 2013 Central Florida Women’s League Heart of Central Florida Woman.

Madeleine Francois

Secretary MetroWest Unit Five A resident of MetroWest for the past 24 years, Madeleine Francois was a licensed independent life and annuity agent before retiring. Throughout her MetroWest residency, she has been actively involved in the MetroWest Master Association through committee service including the finance, security, landscaping, National Night Out event, fine & hearing and the DRB committees. Francois currently serves as president of the HOA 5 board and has served as chairperson for the beautification committee, as a member of the welcome committee and social committee, and as Neighborhood Watch Program coordinator.

Victor Garofalo

Treasurer WSMS, LLC A member of the MetroWest community for more than six years, Garofalo is a Brazilian immigrant, arriving in the United States in 2011 and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration (B.B.A.) focused in business with a minor in economy from Rollins College. He is a commercial landlord and CEO of AFAM INVESTMENTS LLC, a Florida-based company with real estate investments throughout Central Florida.

Warren Nash

Director Vistas at Stonebridge Commons Warren Nash has been a resident in MetroWest for the past 17 years. For the past decade, he has lived in Vistas at Stonebridge Commons. His background includes 18 years in flooring sales, restaurant server and manager at Hard Rock Cafe, and employment at Walt Disney World. He has served on the HOA board for Vistas at Stonebridge Commons for four years and as president of that board for three of those years. He has also served on the master board of Stonebridge Commons for three years and has been an active member of the Stonebridge landscape committee for three years.

MetroWest Master Association Management Julie Sanchez

MetroWest Community General Manager Julie Sanchez has been with FirstService Residential and the MetroWest Master Association since 2009. She possesses more than 35 years of experience in property management, including multi-family, condominium and homeowner association management, in addition to serving as president of eight COA boards, working alongside of a high-rise developer. Her licenses and certifications include Community Association Manager (CAM), Certified Apartment Property Supervisor (CAPS), Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) and Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT).

Sanchez has been continually recognized for her excellence as a community association manager, including receiving the statewide Manager of Excellence Award from Florida Communities of Excellence in 2013. She was recognized as one of the top 20 onsite managers in the entire nation via the 2014 National Manager of the Year Awards. She was also honored by the West Orange Chamber of Commerce with the prestigious 2013 George Bailey Award in recognition of demonstrated excellence in fostering partnerships for the benefit for the local community.

Mary James

Assistant Manager Mary James comes to FirstService Residential with more than 13 years of property management experience with Aimco and other large organizations. She is active in the field and holds both professional designations and high standards as a property manager and employee. Her hard work and dedication have given her the opportunity to grow within the companies and organizations where she has previously worked. James possesses a unique ability to truly understand the operations and processes of the corporate world and governmental entities, and has hands-on experience in running small and large properties, facing any challenge and achieving her own goals and company expectations. www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

23

+ BON APPÉTIT

Foodie Finds in Orlando Eat outside the box with a meal from The Foreigner – A Culinary Experience.

Seasonal ingredients are the star of each dish at The Foreigner.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

W

hen you’re tired of having the same thing for dinner over and over again, consider an Orlando pop-up to break up the routine. The Foreigner – A Culinary Experience is an omakase-style dinner that takes over two popular restaurants each week after hours. Expect familiar flavors prepared in new ways as well as new ingredients you may have never considered trying before.

The Japanese tradition of omakase, which means “I will leave it to you,” allows the chef to decide what will be served. During this fivecourse tasting, Chef Bruno Fonseca thoughtfully prepares dishes that represent the cuisines of his childhood, including Brazilian and Italian.

Dinners take place every Friday at Melts on Main in Winter Garden and every Saturday at The Heavy in Winter Park. Each cozy space comfortably seats up to 10 diners and provides an ambiance that leads to socializing, though that’s harder to do these days.

Before the pandemic, both locations sat diners along the bar, where they could watch Fonseca in action and share with one another their thoughts on each bite. Now, socially distanced tables are the vehicles for this culinary journey.

While some seats still offer views of the kitchen for diners to sneak a glimpse of what’s to come, Fonseca keeps the conversation going by entering the dining room (masked, of course) as each dish is served to describe the ingredients and how they integrate into the theme of that

24

Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

month’s meal. Opportunities for Fonseca to engage with diners also come from special touches in his plating, such as a tableside dusting of tomato snow (a delicate savory sorbet) over a thinly sliced octopus carpaccio.

With each meal, Fonseca challenges diners to think outside the box.

On last month’s menu, what looked like an upscale chicken dish was actually a moist, flavorful hen paired with okra and a sweet corn purée, which provided a delicate balance to that course. The month before, Fonseca presented a roulade of rabbit and foie gras served with a sweet carrot purée

Adding tableside garnishes like this tomato snow allow Chef Bruno Fonseca to engage with diners.

that was both indulgent and just the slightest bit gamey. An optional wine pairing is offered when making the reservation and it comes highly recommended, as it adds another level to the entire experience.

A meal at The Foreigner – A Culinary Experience results in a food memory that can be continually savored, and since the menu changes monthly, you can make these memories again and again. Reservations can be made at TheForeignerExperience.com up to one month in advance. Seating is limited, so booking early is recommended.

HOSPITALITY Spotlight +

CFHLA Endorsements R

ecently, the CFHLA Political Action Committee announced its first slate of 2020 endorsed candidates seeking elected office in Central Florida.

CFHLA supports the following pro-tourism candidates: Brandon Arrington

Peggy Choudhry

Scott Plakon

– Osceola County Commission, District 3

– Osceola County Commission, District 1

– State Representative, District 29

– State Representative, District 43

– Seminole County Commission, District 3

Robert Cortes

Bruno Portigliatti

– Osceola County Commission, District 5

– State Representative, District 30

– State Representative, District 44

– State Senator, District 11

– Seminole County Commission, District 1

Mike Fisher

David Smith

– State Senator, District 9

– Osceola County Sheriff

– State Representative, District 28

– Orange County School Board, District 4

– State Senator, District 13

– State Representative, District 42

– State Senator, District 15

– Seminole County Commission, District 5

– State Representative, District 31

Kristen Arrington Ricky Booth

Randolph Bracy Jason Brodeur

Lee Constantine

Bob Dallari

Pam Gould

Fred Hawkins Andria Herr

Rich Maladecki is president and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, the world’s largest regional hotel association (www.CFHLA.org).

Amy Mercado

– Orange County Property Appraiser

Rene “Coach P” Plasencia

– State Representative, District 50

Samuel Vilchez Santiago

– State Representative, District 48

Linda Stewart Victor Torres

Keith Truenow Mayra Uribe

– Orange County Commission, District 3

John Mina

Betsy VanderLey

– Orange County Sheriff

– Orange County Commission, District 1

CFHLA encourages you to vote on Aug. 18 and is confident these candidates will continue to move Central Florida forward.

Here’s to being here in Lake Nona.

Here is where we are commited to building personal relationships, meeting individual banking needs, and serving our community. Let’s make Lake Nona thrive, together.

1-888-SYNOVUS synovus.com

Synovus Bank, Member FDIC

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

25

COURTESY OF WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Windermere Preparatory School: Together Again

A look at what students and families can expect at Windermere Preparatory School in the 2020-21 school year.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Florida Council of Independent Schools, and the Southern Association of Independent Schools.

What to Expect This School Year

The strength of a community is tested and determined during difficult times, and this year challenged the WPS community in ways that no school has ever encountered before. These experiences made them stronger and equipped them for the challenges in the months ahead.

Due to the current circumstances, WPS has been vigorously working on its “Together Again” plan to bring families back to campus safely.

With new health and safety precau-

tions in place, the school’s leaders feel they are ready to bring the WPS family back together and offer students a sense of normalcy while still social distancing.

Over the past few months, the school’s senior leadership team has been putting together a plan that they are confident will allow WPS students to enjoy the magic of the school while staying safe. Now, faculty and staff members are actively preparing for the arrival of students on campus by focusing on the school’s two interconnected priorities: ensuring both the continuity of learning and the health and safety of all members of the WPS community.

The Together Again Plan consists of various options for families to

COURTESY OF WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

W

indermere Preparatory School (WPS) is a private, pre-K through grade 12 International Baccalaureate (IB) college preparatory school located on a 48-acre lakeside campus with state-of-the-art facilities.

The WPS academic approach is built on complex problem solving and critical thinking, emphasizing intellectual, personal, emotional and social growth.

The school’s academics are complemented and enriched by a multitude of resources and extracurricular activities, such as fine and performing arts, athletics, clubs and community service. It is composed of thinkers, learners, leaders, innovators, artists, student-athletes and a faculty of master teachers. WPS is

• • • • • • • • • • Promotional Feature • • • • • • • • • • COURTESY OF WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

choose from, including The Blended Plan to start the school year, the Traditional Plan and Campus Connect.

The Blended Plan will have the lower school (grades pre-K3 through 5) on campus five days a week, while the middle and high school will attend in-person classes twice a week and log in virtually the other three days a week to reduce class sizes. The Traditional Plan consists of five days on campus while Campus Connect is a virtual option that allows students to remain connected to their classrooms while they are not on-campus for an extended period of time. While nothing can replace the experience students get from being in a real classroom, the goal is to ensure that everyone who wants to be a Laker is able to do so, regardless of their location. Campus Connect is available at all grade levels, pre-K3-12. All three of these plans will offer the same instructions, assessments and access to all Windermere Prep has to offer.

About Windermere Preparatory School

As part of the Nord Anglia Education of Schools, WPS collaborates with world-leading organizations and experts, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for innovative STEAM curricula and The Juilliard School for the fine arts programs that are offered at all ages. In addition to

the WPS academic curriculum, our athletic program has nearly 60 middle and high school teams competing in Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) programs, with student participation at over 74% campus-wide.

To complement the WPS academic and athletic programs, a comprehensive fine and performing arts program strives to unleash expression and unlock the passions of all students. The collaboration with The Juilliard School comes to life in through visual arts, theatre, media arts, music and dance, which are available to students at all grade levels.

Community service is also of primary importance, and the dedication to service work reflects the deep belief of WPS that students are at their best and truest selves when helping others. Students learn at an early age that they can have a positive influence on others and the world around them through community service. As an International Baccalaureate World School and one of Nord Anglia Education’s family of 66 international schools, WPS provides students with a global perspective both inside and outside the classroom.

To learn more about Windermere Preparatory School and how you can become a part of the WPS family, schedule a visit or take a virtual tour at WindermerePrep.com.

DID YOU KNOW?

1,500

Total Number of Enrolled Students

Pre-K–12

Grades offered (plus boarding for grades 7-12)

1/16

Teacher-to-Student Ratio

60+

Nationalities Represented

100%

College Acceptance

74%

Students (grades 6-12) who participate in at least one of the 61 Teams in over 20 different sports

33

Applause Award Nominations Received by Fine Arts Program in the 2019-20 School Year

100+

Events and Shows Performed at the Cypress Center in the 2019 -2020 School Year

2000

Year Founded

120

Full-time Faculty

COURTESY OF WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-905-7737 info@windermereprep.com WindermerePrep.com Follow us on

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

27

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Law

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

Personal Injury 101 Get to know the ins and outs of personal injury and how these laws affect you.

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

Y

ou’ve heard lawyers use the term “personal injury,” but do you really know what that entails? Personal injury refers to injuries that occur as a result of negligence, which is the failure to use appropriate care, under the circumstances, to avoid injury to another person.

Using a car accident as an example, we have the duty to abide by the rules of the road and to drive carefully with regard to the circumstances existing at the time. Circumstances involve weather, traffic and speed, among others. In other words, you have to drive with more care in bad weather or heavy traffic than you do on a clear day with light traffic. If you cut somebody off, run a stop sign or drive too fast on I-4 and crash into someone or something, you have breached your duty of care and are now responsible if someone is injured.

likely to die than those struck by a car.

Light trucks and SUVs don’t have the same visibility over the hood as cars because of their height and drivers cannot see pedestrians and bicyclists as easily as motorists driving a car.

Passenger Injuries

What happens when you’re injured in a vehicle driven by somebody else? I have yet to see a case where a passenger was found liable for causing their own injuries.

If you’re injured as a passenger in a motor vehicle, there are many avenues of recovery for you. The process begins with the insurance policies issued to the host driver of the vehicle, the driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident, your own insurance policy and possibly other insurance policies from rela-

tives living with you. Your insurance company will be responsible for the first $10,000 of your medical bills, if you own a car. If you don’t own a car or live with a relative who has a car (with insurance) then the host driver’s insurance policy will pay those bills.

After those initial payments have been made, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You may also be able to claim uninsured motorist coverage under your own policy, the host driver’s policy or a relative’s policy if they live with you.

If you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, an experienced attorney who concentrates their practice on personal injury litigation can help you with creating the right strategy for your medical and financial recovery.

Pedestrian Accidents

Not all car accidents involve two or more vehicles. People are often struck by inattentive drivers while crossing the street or riding their bicycles.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths are up 5% compared to 2018.

Unfortunately, Florida ranks in the top three states for pedestrian deaths along with New Mexico and Hawaii. The Federal Highway Administration says the possible reasons for these high numbers is the growing popularity of light trucks and SUVs and an increase in cell phone use while driving.

Needless to say, pedestrians who are struck by a large SUV are twice as 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 | August 2020

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Education

Will College Prep Look Different This School Year?

Your guide to navigating the college prep journey during a pandemic.

By Sarah Reynolds, Foundation Academy

T

he past several months have been challenging for students of all ages as they, along with their teachers and parents, have navigated the new normal within the school system.

They have adapted to online learning while handling the disappointment of missed milestones, such as graduation ceremonies at all grade levels and anticipated events like prom, with grace.

The 2020-21 school year will likely be no different though high school students will have one constant to work through: college preparation. Luckily, resources such as their school’s guidance departments as well as ACT and SAT websites are here to help.

Guidance Counselors

In a private school setting, guidance counselors are equipped to work with students and their families one-on-one to select and schedule appropriate cours-

Sarah Reynolds is the Upper School Principal at Foundation Academy’s Tilden Campus. Sarah has been with FA for over 20 years as both a teacher and administrator.

She holds a Master of Science in Education degree with a focus on Educational Leadership.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

es, explore college and career opportunities, and prepare for and complete appropriate testing. They provide guidance as well as direction and support throughout the college application process to alleviate stress for students.

We are committed to providing a comprehensive program that will help all students realize their full potential and become productive, Christ-centered members of the community. The goal of our guidance department is to encourage all students toward a successful transition from high school and college to career, beginning with a positive middle and high school experience. Additionally, our FA Online College and Career Center offers convenient, 24/7 access to important college prep information so students can stay engaged and informed around the clock.

SAT/ACT Testing

The College Board, a not-for-profit organization that connects students with college opportunities, recently announced that SAT testing will be available every month starting this month.

While in-person testing is now limited due to capacity restrictions at testing centers, and online SAT testing opportunities are currently paused, the College Board is doing everything pos-

sible to expand the availability of SAT testing. This also includes adding a test date in January 2021 if the demand is high enough and calling for partner colleges to be flexible with deadlines and consideration for students who are unable to test. Foundation Academy has recently been approved to be an official SAT testing site.

There have also been additional dates added to the ACT fall testing schedule across the country, including new dates in September and October.

Students will now have eight opportunities to complete their ACT test in time for college application deadlines.

Even with expanded testing opportunities, students should take their SAT and ACT tests as early as possible.

This allows additional time for test dates to be rescheduled, as the fluidity of the pandemic could cause unexpected cancellations. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

While there is some uncertainty surrounding the school year ahead, school guidance counselors are working diligently with students to maintain a sense of normalcy as they prepare for college. If your student needs help, they are the first step to college prep and can connect them with the resources they need for success.

+ TECH Trends

4

Apps to Download This School Year

Help your students stay focused and on task with these relevant apps.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

T

here’s a lot to do during the school year to keep your grades on track. These four apps make it a little bit easier by helping to keep you organized, rested and ready to learn.

Flashcards+

Study like a pro by creating flashcards from your class notes through Flashcards+ by Chegg. Designed as a study tool for both high school and college students, this app makes it easy to review notes on the go, whether it’s for a class exam or SAT and ACT prep. You can add images to the flashcards, such as chemistry formulas, anatomy diagrams or anything else that needs to be memorized quickly. Flashcard decks prepared by other students are available for download and you can share your decks with your classmates for study sessions.

Available on iOS and Android devices, Free with additional fees for specific features

myHomework Student Planner

Do you get overwhelmed with all of your responsibilities during the school year? With myHomework Student

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

Planner, you can digitally keep track of your homework assignments, project deadlines and exam dates in an easy-tonavigate display calendar. Since the app supports time, block and period-based schedules, it’s perfect for middle school, high school or college students. A premium account allows you to sync across other platforms, receive homework reminders and automatically download class information, assignments, files and announcements from any teacher’s Teachers.io class.

Available on iOS and Android devices, Free for the basic version and $4.99 for the premium version

Office Lens

Gone are the days of scribbling down notes during class and then misplacing them later. This organizational app allows users to digitize their notes by snapping a photo of an instructor’s whiteboard, blackboard or printed documents and then storing them. Even handwritten text can be automatically recognized so you can share notes between classmates. Office Lens cleans up any glare or shadows from photos, trims and colors images, and converts images

to Word, Powerpoint or PDF files that are then automatically saved to OneDrive. Studying will be even easier when you can access all of your notes in one convenient location.

Available on iOS and Android devices, Free

Sleep Cycle

This app will help you get to school on time, feeling rested and energized. Through the night, Sleep Cycle uses sound analysis to monitor your movements in bed through each sleep phase. The information that is logged allows the app to awaken you each morning when you’re in a light sleep phase, which makes you feel like you’re waking up naturally without an alarm. The more restful sleep and soothing wake-up experience helps to prepare you for a full day of learning. A premium subscription includes additional features like snore trends, a heart rate monitor and sleep notes for more in-depth information about your sleep patterns.

Available on iOS and Android devices, Free for the basic version and $29.99 for a premium subscription.

YEARS OF PREPARING FUTURE LEADERS Pre-K3 through Grade 12 International Baccalaureate World School Offering 5 and 7 Day Boarding

windermereprep.com

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! (407) 905-7737 info@windermereprep.com

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

33

4

+ IN STYLE

Ways to Wear Your Mask

Masks are now required in public settings, so you should have a selection that are comfortable and fun to wear. These are some of our favorites.

Get Wild

Feel Good

These reusable, triple-layered masks are both environmentally friendly and stylish. Whether you’re wearing it to work or the kids are wearing it to school, you can feel good about it.

Chic Tweak Masks, $10-$15, ChicTweakNY.com

White House Black Market has taken stylish facemasks to a whole new level. Get wild with animal print or opt for the classic black that matches everything. While you’re wearing your mask, hook a convertible mask necklace to the ear loops then rock it as a necklace when you’re not.

3-Pack of Non-Medical Face Coverings, $15, WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com The WHBM Convertible Mask Necklace, $15, WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com

Got You Covered

With a selection of patterns for both men and women, as well as styles for kids, Onzie has your mask needs covered. From pretty florals to solid colors, you can wear them with any outfit.

2-Pack Mindful Masks, $24, Onzie.com

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

STAY & PLAY

Join us for part three of a special three-part series focused on summer fun in Florida.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

35

STAY AND PLAY

I

t’s been quite the year for our region and beyond. As businesses and local attractions shut down in March to combat the spread of COVID-19, there was plenty of uncertainty as to how it would all play out. Since then, the state of Florida has been on a rollercoaster throughout the reopening process, as numbers of cases have risen and dropped on a daily basis.

But if there’s one thing we know, it’s that our neighbors, our local officials and area business owners are resilient.

All have been asked to adapt to the

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

fluid situation surrounding health and safety standards, and they have met the task head on to quickly develop new protocols to keep their guests and employees safe.

As we all continue to do our part in following these safety measures, such as wearing masks in public settings, maintaining social distancing when possible, staying home when feeling sick and practicing proper hygiene and hand washing, we’re united against this virus. With this final part of our Stay & Play series, we hope to offer insight into how you can continue to support local and state tourism while keeping yourself and your family safe.

Orlando’s Newest Waterpark!

Play More! Pay less!

Buy Tickets Online & Save $5!

IslandH2OLive.com 3230 Inspiration Dr. | Kissimmee, FL 34747

STAY AND PLAY

5 Ways to Beat the Heat in Orlando These local attractions offer tons of fun while keeping you cool this summer.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games TopGolf Orando

Located next to Topgolf on Universal Boulevard, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games offers all types of safe family fun. While one of the main draws is the indoor go-karting, the facility also includes an arcade, a rope obstacle course, a Dark Ride Motion Theater and a bowling alley. You can even fuel up between activities without having to leave the building. The Andretti Grill serves a selection of tasty salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizza and other entrees.

The facility reopened in May and continues to follow the guidance of public health officials to keep both guests and employees safe. New safety standards include enhanced cleaning and mask and social distancing requirements. There are also touchless hand sanitizer stations located throughout the facility as well as the availability of contactless transactions through mobile waivers and purchase kiosks.

Island H20 Since the end of May, Island H20 has been welcoming back visitors who are looking to cool off during these hot summer months. The water park, which is located at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, offers an immersive and interactive experience for people of all ages. From water slides and splash zones to a lazy river and a private adult pool, there is something for all members of the family to enjoy during a visit.

The park reopened with new Safe-Splash Guidelines in place, such as verbal screenings and temperature checks for employees and guests, social distancing requirements and increased sanitation, among others.

Face coverings are recommended for guests between rides and attractions; however, they aren’t permitted while in the water or on the rides. Guests are encouraged to review the full safety guidelines online prior to arriving and to purchase a ticket online to ensure

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entry, as the water park could reach capacity based on demand, especially on weekends.

Orlando Science Center This Orlando favorite reopened recently with new hours so local kids can learn and play in exhibit halls such as NatureWorks, DinoDigs and KidsTown. The museum will be open Monday-Tuesday and ThursdaySaturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from 12-5 p.m., and it will be closed each Wednesday for deep cleaning. While all programming is currently still being offered, staff will be present in all exhibit halls to facilitate the experience and to sanitize between guests.

The Orlando Science Center encourages visitors to purchase tickets online, as limited capacity could lead to certain days filling up. Additionally, masks are required and guests and employees are expected to follow social distancing guidelines.

STAY AND PLAY TopGolf

Wonderworks

One of the hottest spots in Orlando, TopGolf offers more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays and full-service restaurants and bars. Whether you play their signature game or try a game like TopPressure or TopShot, you’re sure to have a ball while shooting your shot. And, while you’re there, try a signature snack like creamy and cheesy macaroni bites, the hot and spicy buffalo chicken dip or keep it sweet with the injectable donut holes, complete with chocolate sauce, raspberry jelly or Bavarian cream.

Known as Orlando’s only upside down attraction, Wonderworks is an amusement park for the mind. With exhibits that combine education and entertainment, guests of all ages are encouraged to challenge their minds and use their imagination. The area is split into Wonder Zones. You can become a human lightning rod in the Natural Disasters zone, create 3D images of your body on a giant pin wall in the Physical Challenge zone or climb into a replica of a launch capsule in the Space Discovery zone. This indoor attraction also includes a three-story ropes challenge course, a 4D extreme motion ride and laser tag.

Health and safety measure include responsible social distancing, safely spaced hitting bays, a high standard of cleanliness, associate health and safety, and facemask requirements. As a special thank you, healthcare workers, such as doctors, nurses, technicians, medical researchers and hospital workers, will receive a 10% discount on gameplay and 20% discount on monthly membership through Aug. 31.

Keep in mind that some experiences may be closed or limited during your visit, and new protocols such as social distancing and mask requirements will be in place.

So be sure to plan your visit ahead to time to ensure you’re prepared.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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STAY AND PLAY

Want to Get Away?

Whether you choose a staycation or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of fun places in Florida to cross off your bucket list.

Crystal River Outdoor Adventures Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours Crystal River is the perfect place to partake in the popular pastime of recreational scalloping. Scalloping season runs through September and is a safe and fun underwater opportunity for the whole family.

There is no shortage of tours available in the area, and most require you to bring only a swimsuit and a towel.

However, check with your tour operator before you go to find out if you need to bring your own equipment. Additionally, some seaside restaurants will cook your catch when you get off the boat.

The warm water of the area’s springs draw manatees throughout the year. Tour companies offer guided manatee swim experiences to provide an up-close look at these gentle creatures in their natural environment. While you can see manatees all year-round, the cold winter months of December, January and February are ideal and provide the most opportunities for a manatee encounter.

Devil’s Den Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours Take a step back into prehistoric North America with a trip to Devil’s Den, an underground spring and dry cave right here in Florida. Devil’s Den, which dates back 33 million years, is home to many extinct animal fossils and ancient rock formations that will transport you to another time.

Devil’s Den Spring

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

The spring’s clear waters are 72 degrees year-round — the perfect temperature to cool you off on your scuba diving or snorkeling adventure. A certification level of open water or above and a dive buddy are required for scuba diving admission. No certification is required to snorkel.

The Devil’s Den property has onsite lodging options, including cabins, an RV park and tent campgrounds.

While you’re there, you can prepare a meal on one of the charcoal grills, swim in the onsite pool and play a selection of lawn games.

Treasure Island Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours Just a short drive from Orlando, this West Coast beach town near St. Petersburg and Tampa is the perfect place to go for a relaxing getaway. While there are plenty of places to explore during your trip, many local resorts have so much to do on property that you’ll never have to leave.

The Bilmar Beach Resort, located on Gulf Boulevard, has 167 guest rooms in which 90% are beachfront.

Not only will you have beautiful views from your room but you can also kick back and relax on 500 feet of Gulf of Mexico coastline and participate in a number of beach activities while you’re there.

Stroll along a mile-long beachfront walking trail, kayak or paddleboard in the clear-as-glass water or go on a parasailing adventure during the day then enjoy beach fire pit areas as the sun dips below the horizon. Even more, all guest rooms come with two beach chairs per day so you don’t need to wake up too early to claim your spot.

+ YOUR Local

Going Back to School in a Pandemic A look at the back-to-school plan for students and families in Orange County.

By Stina D’Uva, West Orange Chamber of Commerce

G

Pam Gould, District 4 OCPS Board Member at Virtual Board Meeting

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

Teresa Jacobs, Chairwoman OCPS Board at Virtual Board Meeting

This is no easy task and it has not been taken lightly.

OCPS asked for input from the community and they got quite a bit.

Over 100,000 people responded to surveys. On top of that, during one of the meetings for school board members to consider the various options, eight and a half hours of public testimony was heard from123 members of our community.

I learned this by listening in during the virtual OCPS board meeting on July 15. I don’t have kids in school anymore, but I’m often asked questions on an array of topics as WOCC president. So I wanted to be informed.

The other reason is more personal: two of my dearest friends serve on the OCPS board. Pam Gould has been the District 4 board member for eight years, and Teresa Jacobs just joined the board last year. Friends support one

another in hard times. I was listening in for moral support.

In the end, their decision wasn’t made that evening. The board requested even more information so they could develop the best options for families. The decision, which included innovative learned called LaunchED, was made several days later and submitted for the governor’s approval. All details are on OCPS.net. It will be up to the parents to select the way their students will learn.

I know we will hope, for everyone’s sake, that the plan will work.

Some good news is after many years of OCPS trying to get more funding for teacher salaries, the legislature approved and the governor signed a budget that will raise starting teacher salaries to $47,000. After so many parents had to be teachers during the spring, including legislators, the consensus is likely that the salary is still way too low. Take it from me, a former substitute teacher, there is no salary high enough for our teachers!

Dr. Barbara Jenkins, OCPS Superintendent at Virtual Board Meeting

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEAWORLD® ORLANDO

rowing up in New Jersey, the start of school was always after Labor Day. After moving to Florida and enrolling our three sons in the public school system, my family shifted to an August start date.

Even in a world filled with COVID-19, it appears that kids will be going back to school by Aug. 21 in Orange County this year. The only question is, how will they go back?

This conversation has been going on since March when schools had to close and distance learning became the new norm.

Since then, Dr. Barbara Jenkins, superintendent of Orange County Public Schools, and the OCPS board members have been working hard to determine ways to bring students back while working with the governor’s executive order.

+ YOUR Local Cornell week – 4/4/19

Jones graduation – 5/16/16

Rosen Preschool Graduation – 7/19/18 Economic Partnership event – 11/19/19

Dr. Phillips graduation – 4/25/16

Spotlight on the Tangelo Park Program

Tangelo Park Preschool Graduation – 6/1/16

A look at how this inspirational program encourages local youth to focus on their education.

W

ith a nod to actor John Krasinski’s uplifting coronavirus Facebook series … now for “Some Good News” courtesy of The Harris Rosen Foundation.

While the world seems to be swirling in chaos, it’s nice to know there is an anchor in the storm. Local hotelier and philanthropist Harris Rosen has always been one of Central Florida’s most impassioned advocates for those in need. As such, his Tangelo Park Program here shows no signs of stopping amidst the recent economic downturn. In fact, it may be the solution to a national crisis.

“Peaceful protesting is fine,” Rosen said recently, referring to the impoverished communities nationwide marching for much-needed change. “That’s what democracy is all about. But to protest without a remedy to the situation doesn’t solve anything. It’s appropriate to feel badly about a situation, but do something about it.”

And so he did, 27 years ago.

In 1993, personally moved by the dire climate in the underserved Orlando community of Tangelo Park,

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

at that time its 3,000 residents gripped in crime, drugs and too few youth graduating high school, Rosen made a commitment to do something about it.

As the first in his family to graduate college, he understood how education could transform a life. As such, he decided to compel Tangelo Park youth to finish high school with the promise of a free two- or four-year Florida public college or vocational school education, including room, board, tuition and books.

To ensure parents had support to foster their children’s academic success, a diversified community board with representatives from the local police department, fire department, feeder public schools, the University of Central Florida and Tangelo Park community leaders was formed. Free preschools, funded by Rosen, gave 2-4 year-olds a head start before entering public school. Hope began to infuse the neighborhood, which has eventually transformed.

This year, 100% of the community’s high school seniors gradu-

ated. With Rosen’s close to $14 million commitment, 438 scholarships have been awarded, producing 224 college and 15 vocational school degrees. Orlando Mayor Jerry L. Demings has called Tangelo Park a “quiet oasis,” referring to the program’s remarkable affect in diminishing crime.

In 2017, Rosen initiated a similar program in Parramore, near downtown Orlando. He holds out hope that others become inspired

by Tangelo Park’s success and are moved to “do something about it” in their own backyards.

“Inequality of opportunity should never exist in our country,” Rosen says. “If we had a Tangelo Park Program in every underserved community in America, we would not recognize this great nation. And that’s what is so frustrating for me.

Ours is not the only answer. But it certainly is a viable answer. One that has been proven to work quite effectively over the decades.”

To learn more, please visit TangeloParkProgram.com or RosenGivesBack.com.

PHOTOS BY ALBERTA MASMOUDI, ROSEN HOTELS & RESORTS

By Mary Deatrick

+ HOMESTYLE

6

On-Trend Kitchen and Bath Upgrades

Integrate these ideas into your next remodel for a beautiful home and a potentially high return on investment.

Courtesy of National Association of the Remodeling Industry

K

itchens and bathrooms remain among the top picks for homeowners looking to upgrade because their functional contributions to the household can’t be overstated and they typically provide high return on investment. If you’re considering a renovation for either space, consider some of these on-trend ideas from Doug King, CR, MBA, owner of King Contracting, Inc. and president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Cooking Up a Kitchen Remodel

Bigger functional spaces: Many kitchen renovations result in added square footage and practical features that make living and entertaining more comfortable and enjoyable. When it comes to physical space, removing or relocating walls make the room larger. Use this space to add an island or peninsula for bar seating, which many homeowners view as a necessity for entertaining. Other features like icemakers, tall wine refrigerators and walk-in pantries are high

on the frequent request list. Another growing trend is a kitchen designed for two, complete with a second fullsize sink, dishwasher and microwave drawer, along with a larger island.

Clever storage: Making the most of storage space has always been a top desire, and homeowners are getting increasingly clever about how to maximize their cabinetry. Drawer organizers and pullout wastebaskets that hide recycling are in high demand. Another popular approach is large base cabinets with pivoting shelving mechanisms for storing large items like mixers and other taller countertop appliances. Making use of every inch of space is common; even the toe-kick area for drawers are proving useful to hold smaller items or put kidfriendly essentials in easy reach.

Feature-rich appliances: Appliance manufacturers are adding all kinds of features that are increasingly attractive to homeowners. Upper-end appliances are becoming more mainstream as homeowners discover features the more expensive models offer for ease of use and comfort. Larger freezer and column-style refrigerators are especially growing in popularity.

Creating a Beautiful Bathroom

Spa-like setting: One longterm trend that is still in top de-

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

mand for the master bath is design that mimics a serene spa. This plays out in cooler colors like white, blues and grays. Glass tiles are taking on a bigger role with many homeowners using them as artistic focal points in showers or opting for pebble-like tiles that spill from walls onto the floor.

Upscale practicality: Little touches that may have once gone unnoticed are now trending as opportunities to add elements of style.

For example, curbless showers with offset lineal drains are preferred to traditional centered circular versions. Similarly, homeowners are upping the ante with lighting such as fixtures integrated with fans and mirrors, and even below floating vanities for ambient light at night.

One more place you might find lighting: on the bidet, which is also an increasingly hot addition in the master bath.

A splash of tech: Whether it’s used to control smart features or simply add entertainment like TV or soothing music, technology has a permanent place on the list of bathroom trends. It’s easy to make a full escape from the daily grind of life.

Find more inspiration and trending ideas for your next home improvement project at remodelingdoneright.com.

Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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+ CALENDAR of Events ALL MONTH LONG Taste of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Regular park hours Epcot World Showcase Regular theme park admission 407.939.5277 DisneyWorld.Disney.

Go.com This modified festival combines all the fun and flavors of Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival and Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival with more than 20 signature booths.

It will run daily through the fall.

August 7-20 Florida Film Festival

Enzian Show times and pricing varies 407.629.1088 ext 230 FloridaFilmFestival.com Now in its 29th year, this Oscar-qualifying festival premieres the best in current, independent and international cinema.

This year’s event will take place exclusively at Enzian Theater to allow staff members to more effectively manage crowds, the festival environment and guest safety while following Orange County guidelines.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

August 15 Appetite for the Arches 2020

Virtual Event RMHCCF.org Local top chefs will put their creativity to the test using McDonald’s ingredients in this unique foodie competition. Check the website for more details as they become available.

August 15 Track Shack’s Celebration of Running 5k Presented

by AdventHealth

Virtual Option Available 7:15 a.m.

Orlando Cultural Park 530 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL 32803 Entry fees vary 407.896.1313 TrackShack.com Celebrate Track Shack’s 43rd anniversary and kick off the Florida running season. A virtual option will be available, and in-person capacity is limited to 1,000 people to promote physical distancing and mitigate person-to-person contact.

August 20 Sunset at the Zoo

5:30-9 p.m.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens 3755 W. Seminole Blvd.

Sanford, FL 32771 $5 admission CentralFloridaZoo.org Take happy hour outside!

Adults over age 21 can stroll through the zoo, enjoy live music and sip on beer and wine (available for purchase) while seeing the animals during sunset.

August 22 Wishmaker’s Ball

5-10 p.m.

Waldorf Astoria WishmakersBall.com This signature event for the local chapter of Make-a-Wish Foundation will include an evening filled with entertainment as well as an opportunity to hear directly from the wish children whose lives have been touched by the power of a wish. All funds raised stay locally to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Check the website for updates for this event as they become available.

August 23 NEA Big Read Kickoff & Keynote with Kelly Link

Virtual Event 2-3 p.m.

OCLS.info/bigread To launch this special series, which runs through September 13, “Pretty Monsters” author, Kelly Link will provide a virtual keynote address that will be live streamed on the OCLS Videos YouTube page.

Provide email at registration to participate.

AROUND THE CORNER September 19 10th Annual Chairs 4 Charity

5:30-11 p.m.

Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs 350 Northlake Blvd.

Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 $125 per person MustardSeedFla.org 407.875.2040 Join The Mustard Seed of Central Florida for a celebration and live auction of art made from furniture. Local artists will turn upcycled furniture into artistic masterpieces.

Check the website for the most up-to-date details regarding this event.

October 3 A Night with Nemours...at Home

Virtual Event 6-8 p.m.

Nemours.com/nchgala Join the community for an interactive and engaging experience that will bring the Nemours mission and gala excitement into your home.

+ SCHOOL News

When “Back to School” Isn’t Back to Normal What to keep in mind as kids get back to school and throughout the school year.

By Amanda Reineck, MSW, RCSWI

P

arenting is never easy, but 2020 has been especially taxing. Over the past few months, we’ve learned to navigate closed classrooms, virtual learning, lockdowns and medical precautions, and, not least of all, the herculean feat of keeping kids entertained at home.

With Florida schools reopening, some parents will be sticking with virtual learning while others will be sending their kids back to class. For many, the decision wasn’t made lightly, with complicating factors such as work, health, education, social development, emotional wellness and, yes, the household budget up for consideration.

Unlike in the spring, when we adapted to home learning with a “sink or swim” mentality, time and experience were on our side this summer.

No matter what back-to-school sea-

Amanda Reineck, MSW, RCSWI, is a behavioral health coordinator with Embrace Families, Orlando. She has worked with youth in and out of foster care for 14 years, beginning as a volunteer in 2005.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | August 2020

son will look like for each of us, here’s what to keep in mind.

Learning at Home

There are 20 unread emails, the laundry needs sorting, the kids need help with schoolwork and Zoom just crashed. There’s no question that setting up a school environment at home is a challenge.

It may help to designate part of the house for quiet study time, ideally in a room where everyone can work together. Pencil in time for breaks, too. Playing a round of Frisbee, coloring pictures or having an impromptu dance party aren’t just outlets for pentup energy — they’re opportunities for physical and creative growth.

Especially for younger kids, who are still learning the ins and outs of socialization, virtual classes can’t replace time spent with classmates. As a safer alternative, consider scheduling supervised, one-on-one playdates with trusted friends and neighbors.

Returning to School

For many families, sending children back to school was a big decision – even a scary one. For some, it’s the first time since the spring that the kids will mingle with large groups of people. That’s why

it’s important to teach good health and safety habits and reteach them as necessary until they become the norm.

Even young kids can learn to say hello without touching: Ask them to wave, hug themselves or tap feet with friends instead. Children learn best from practice, so make it a daily routine to wash hands and avoid touching the eyes or mouth.

If you have older children or teens, sit down with them and discuss what precautions they need to follow.

What steps will they take when they come home from school? What social or extracurricular activities may need to adapt?

In our rapidly changing environment, a COVID-19 outbreak at school or at home may cause temporary closures, so make sure to have a contingency plan in case schools revert to home learning.

It’s a uniquely challenging time to be a parent, so we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves or our kids. Be ready for off days, academic struggles, last-minute messes and worries. Take time for self-care and know that it’s okay to feel stressed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help: Remember, we’re all in this together.

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